We lost an unbelievably good guy this week: Paul Wescott. He lost his life in a car accident at the age of 30. Paulie was a gentleman and would do anything for anyone. He worked for me at Wonderland for many years. You may remember him when we did a “Where’s Paulie?” promotion at our pizza shop. He delivered free pizzas around town and took pictures with the people he delivered to.
He later worked part-time for the city in the Community Services Department at the welcome center desks, always greeting everyone with a big smile. I know the old Wonderland team and the city team will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and many friends. I will update everyone with details on services when they become available.
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The weekend weather forecast looks beautiful, and I hope you all get a chance to get outside to enjoy the beach, boardwalk, bay, downtown and all that Ocean City has to offer.
As always, we encourage everyone to swim only at guarded beaches, and an updated list is always available at ocnj.us/ocbp. Our OCBP lifeguards are exceptional, but I also want to remind the community to look after family and friends and to make sure they respect the power of the ocean. We have a shared responsibility to keep everybody safe.
Our preseason discount for seasonal beach tags extends through Sunday. I’ve heard some people say that the sale ends on Memorial Day, but each year it goes to May 31. If you haven’t already purchased your tags, this is your last weekend to take advantage of the savings. More information is available here.
We installed the lights for the north end of the Boardwalk this week. The decorative posts look great, and the equipment allows us to customize lighting levels and take advantage of other technology. It’s great to see the Boardwalk in such good shape in time for the summer.
Our seasonal jitney service will begin daily routes on Friday, June 19. The route and rates remain unchanged for 2026. More information is available at ocnj.us/jitneyservice.
Veterans are invited to participate in the Cape May County Bar Association and Cape May County Surrogate's “Wills for Warriors” program from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 4, 2026. The program will provide basic estate planning services — including wills, powers of attorney and healthcare directives — to veterans free of charge. More information is available here.
Michele and I would also like to extend deepest condolences to the family of Lewis Shupe, who passed away last weekend.
Check out this week's "Inside City Hall" 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!