Finance Director Frank Donato and Capital Projects and Engineering Director Vince Bekier made a presentation to City Council on our proposed 5-year capital plan last night. Frank and Vince first reviewed a list of projects that were completed this past year, as well as several that are still in progress. They then detailed the planned projects for 2026 and associated funding requests.
The presentation wrapped up with Frank explaining how all of this impacts our debt service and operating budgets going forward. Many years of large-scale infrastructure projects and updates to city facilities and buildings have now been accomplished and are being paid down through careful financial planning throughout the years. Our debt service is leveling off as of this year and is projected to continue for the foreseeable future, which is great news to our residents and taxpayers.
We took advantage of steady ratable growth in the past 10 to 15 years, as well as historically low interest rates for many of them. The timing was right to accomplish these important projects, and I want to thank all of our professionals for their planning expertise, as well as Council for supporting all of this over the years.
City Council last night voted to renew a contract with our jitney service provider. The summer Boardwalk service has worked well and will remain the same. We’re adding a day to the Senior Center service and making it door-to-door. Anybody 60 years and older can use the free service to the Senior Center by calling 609-399-0055 to make a reservation.
Council also approved a contract to reinforce and redeck the Boardwalk from 12th Street to 14th Street. This job can be completed this spring and we have a plan that will not interrupt access to businesses along those blocks.
We’re still working to complete renovations at the Ocean City Dog Park. The new pavilion is up, but the weather pushed back concrete and fencing work. We should be back open before the end of March, if not sooner.
Our maintenance dredging on the bay side was also delayed by the ice. But they’re due to start next week, and we will be able to apply for an extension to the permitting deadline if necessary.
We’re finishing up punch-list items at the new police substation on the Boardwalk, and officers are set to move in during the first week of March.
I want to remind you that our annual Public Safety Recognition Ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, February 25, at the Ocean City Tabernacle. This event recognizes men and women from the Ocean City Police Department, Ocean City Fire Department and Ocean City Beach Patrol who performed heroic actions in the course of duty. I encourage you all to come out to support our first responders.
I want to pay tribute to Delores Rolls, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 72. Delores was an Ocean City High School graduate who continued her education at Atlantic Cape Community College, where she went on to work as a lab tech and substitute professor. She is survived by seven children, who are part of our community. Please join Michele and me in extending deepest condolences to the Rolls family and all of Delores’s friends.
Check out this week’s edition of “Inside City Hall” below for a look at progress on the Boardwalk and police substation, retirement of the Housing Authority's Jackie Jones, and a Quilts of Honor presentation.
A storm moving off our coast on Sunday into Monday has the potential to bring some mix of rain, snow and tidal flooding. The exact track of the low-pressure system and the potential impact remain uncertain. Please monitor forecasts and look for further updates through the weekend.
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!