Statement of Mayor Jay Gillian
December 3, 2025
To the residents of Ocean City:
I want to address a deeply personal matter with the openness and honesty that you deserve from your mayor. Recently I made the painful decision to file for personal bankruptcy. This was an extraordinarily difficult decision, but ultimately the most responsible course of action after a series of financial challenges that I could no longer manage.
Over the past several years, a combination of personal financial obligations, business decisions I’ve made, unforeseen events, and circumstances outside of my control gradually created serious financial strain on me and my family. Like many individuals and families across our nation who encounter unexpected hardship, I found myself in a position where traditional methods were no longer viable.
After consulting with financial professionals, and personal legal counsel, I concluded that bankruptcy was that best legal process available to responsibly address my personal obligations, restructure my personal financial situation and chart a path toward stability. This is not a decision I ever imagined I would face, nor is it one I take lightly. I understand the seriousness of it, and I am committed to learning from this experience and rebuilding with integrity and discipline.
I want to emphasize one point unequivocally: my personal financial situation has no impact whatsoever on city finances, budget, credit rating, or operations. Our city’s fiscal position remains strong, and all municipal services, programs and commitments continue uninterrupted and fully funded. Safeguards, oversight, and the structure of municipal government ensure that personal finances and public finances remain entirely separate.
Despite this personal challenge, my dedication to this job, and to the people of Ocean City, remains unwavering. My focus remains on continuing the work you elected me to do: invest wisely, support responsible economic development, improve public safety and ensuring the overall success of our city for every resident. This moment, while personally humbling, does not distract from that mission.
I also want to acknowledge the fact financial hardship affects millions of Americans, some right here in Ocean City. It does not discriminate. And while the circumstances of every situation are unique, the feelings of stress, uncertainty and vulnerability are universal. It is my hope that by being transparent and direct, others facing similar hardships will feel empowered to seek help, take responsible action and work toward rebuilding.
I am profoundly grateful for the support I have received from my family, friends, colleagues and many of you in our community. I also respect that some may view this matter with a measure of concern. I hear you. I understand your expectations. And I intend to meet them every day through hard work, continued transparency, and unwavering commitment and love for Ocean City. I also understand that some may see this as a political opportunity. I simply ask for two things: respect for my family during this time and a collective commitment to work together to continue to make ocean City the best it can be.
Thank you for your understanding, your trust and your partnership. I remain honored to serve as your mayor, and my administration and I will continue to carry out our duties with the same enthusiasm, energy, focus and dedication I bring to the office every single day.
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.
Jay Gillian, Mayor
Phone: 609-525-9333
Email: mayor@ocnj.us
