PRESS RELEASE: Freeholder Candidate James Toto sets the example in Somers Point amid COVID-19

Somers Point Councilman James Toto, a Republican candidate for Atlantic County Freeholder, announced today that he has partnered with private industry to provide Somers Point municipal employees with COVID-19 testing. His press release on the matter follows:

Somers Point Councilman James Toto who is also seeking a seat as Atlantic County Freeholder-at-large has partnered with private industry to provide Somers Point, NJ municipal employees with private dedicated COVID-19 testing.

"We are in a crisis, and we have to look to President Trump's examples of partnering with industry to get through this. As a Councilman I want to do all that I can to keep Somers Point functioning during such a difficult time. By providing testing for our employees we can get those who are suspected of being positive tested, and back to work quicker. Or know for sure their status so they can take the appropriate measures. To solve this challenge, I contacted My Wellness Express and Mike Schwartz. Working with our administration here in Somers Point led by Sean McGuigan I am happy to announce testing will take place starting next week for our municipal employees through My Wellness Express. " Toto said.

Toto went on to discuss how the Somers Point plan could be put to use in other municipalities across Atlantic County "We have a testing site setup at the Hamilton Mall, which is great. But if the cities and towns across Atlantic County can take advantage of a resource like this they could reduce the burden on the county testing site and ensure municipal employees get fast test results to ease their anxiety, and the anxiety felt by their families. That would also free up opportunities for others to get tested at the Atlantic County testing site." Toto said.

"In this crisis, we don't need more government. We need more partnership with industry and I hope that our example in Somers Point shines as a beacon of what Republican leadership looks like."

Mike Schwartz of My Wellness Express echoed his support for Somers Point and municipal employees across South Jersey “as a former police officer, I know firsthand the challenges of keeping officers on the road during a crisis. Our police, fire, EMS, and municipal workers are on the front lines everyday and we are happy we can assist them during these times. When Jim called, we did not hesitate. I know how much he cares about his community and applaud his efforts to take the lead. Adequate testing is the only way to truly flatten the cure. I’m just glad we are in a position to help”

Jim Toto is a lifelong Republican and a 4 year veteran of Somers Point Council. Jim is a proud Veteran of the US Army. Following his time in the military, Toto answered his nation’s call and served as a US Air Marshal for 6 years. Following his retirement from his military/law enforcement career, Jim Toto currently works for the City of Ocean City Public Works Department. Toto is married with three children and resides in Somers Point, NJ.