We received our elevator permit for the new police substation at Eighth Street and Boardwalk this week, and we expect all other approvals by the end of next week. Police will be able to move in later this month. The facility is a great new addition that will help keep our Boardwalk and all of Ocean City safe.
City Council last night approved going out to bid for demolition of the main police station on Central Avenue. We plan to add temporary parking for the summer, while we finish designs for the new public safety building there.
The state’s contractor is working to repair the Ninth Street Bridge lights, and I want to thank the Department of Transportation commissioner for keeping me updated on the work. I hope to have more good news soon about bringing them back.
Boardwalk reconstruction continues to make great progress. The work is ahead of schedule and should be done in plenty of time for our spring events.
We’re still harvesting sand to rebuild our north end beaches, and we’re still working with federal and state officials on funding for a full-scale beach replenishment. I can assure you that – no matter what – our beaches will be ready for the summer.
The Dog Park at 45th Street will be closed for renovations starting on Monday. We’re installing a new pavilion, removing a planter wall and repairing fences. The project is expected to be complete before the end of February. Additional time will be added to the dog park passes to make up for the time the park is closed for renovations.
Our neighbors in Sea Isle City lost one of their legends this week with the passing of Carmen Conti at age 96. He died in the home where he lived most of his life. He was the owner of the family business Carmen’s Seafood Restaurant, where generations of families came to know and love him. Michele and I would like to extend deepest condolences to his wife, Ruthy, his children, Carrie (husband Glen Foulke, a close friend of mine) and Carmen Jr. (Nicole), and all of the many people who knew him as a friend.
Finally, I want to invite everyone to the annual Martin Luther King Ceremony on Monday, Jan. 19. It’s at 12 p.m. at the Ocean City Tabernacle.
This year, we’re honoring Connie Pritchard, Sister Joelle Thren and Jennifer Shirk with our Community Service Awards. These women are perfect examples of Ocean City’s community spirit, and I’m looking forward to celebrating their achievements.
The Reverend Gregory Johnson will deliver Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, and everybody’s invited to a free soul food luncheon after the event.
I also want to encourage everyone to participate in the Day of Service citywide cleanup before the ceremony. Volunteers are asked to meet at the Knight Building on 12th Street at 9 a.m. on Jan. 19 to pick up supplies.
This week's "Inside City Hall" video is available below.
Warm regards,
Jay A. Gillian Mayor
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Welcome to The City of Ocean City, New Jersey!
Ocean City is a town rich in history and a deep sense of community. Families have been vacationing in Ocean City for generations and many have made Ocean City their year-round home.
Our residents enjoy award-winning schools, world-class recreation facilities and outstanding municipal services from all city departments, including Police, Fire and Rescue, and Beach Patrol. Residents participate in activities for every age and interest including the cultural arts, music and theater as well as sports and recreation programs available at our many parks, playgrounds and city facilities. One of our local treasures is the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue, where families and individuals can enjoy the Ocean City Free Public Library, Ocean City Arts Center, Ocean City Historical Museum, Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center, and the Howard S. Stainton Senior Center under one roof.
The city also maintains and operates a municipal airport, 12-hole golf course, Aquatic and Fitness Center as well as the famed Ocean City Pops Orchestra.
Ocean City is also host to more than 200 family-friendly special events held year-round. Many of our events are popular family traditions, including the Night in Venice Boat Parade in July, the Baby Parade in August, our mile-long block parties in May and October, and our family-friendly First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration.
If you are vacationing in Ocean City, I know you’ll enjoy our seven miles of beautiful beaches and exciting Boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants and amusements. And be sure to visit our unique and charming downtown shops and restaurants located in the heart of town on Asbury Avenue.
I am truly proud to serve as mayor for this great community and hope you and your family enjoy your time in America’s Greatest Family Resort.
Welcome to The City of Ocean City, New Jersey!