4th Ward Councilman Bobby Barr has become known for his frequent and informative ward meetings and Saturday morning he did not disappoint. He hosted an interactive meeting at the Ocean City Free Public Library that drew about 65 attendees and covered a wide range of topics.
Vince Bekier, Aide to Mayor Jay Gillian, was his guest speaker and he updated the audience on all of the projects completed in 2017, as well as the ongoing capital projects effecting the 4th Ward. He then proceeded to discuss the upcoming projects planned for 2018. Bekier utilized two oversized color maps, that were posted in the front of the room to help people visualize what he was covering.
The hour-long meeting which began at 10 a.m., provided a forum for constituent questions and concerns. Barr and Bekier fielded questions that involved topics ranging from the “overzealous” cutting of vegetation at 52nd Street to a citizen’s inquiry about the City’s ability to maintain the many capital improvements that we have invested in all over town.
They discuss the drainage challenges that exist in several areas and what it being done to help mitigate them.
There was a disturbing report that a resident made regarding a man being spotted cutting down cedar trees on public land with a hack saw because they obstructed his view. Councilman Barr said that he would look into that matter, and made it clear that was unacceptable.
After the meeting Barr and Bekier remained to take one-on-one questions and discuss the particulars on individual matters. As the residents left, they seemed satisfied that their voices were heard.
At the conclusion, Councilman Barr emphasized the importance of his ward meetings for getting feedback and input. “I want to hear from the people of my ward, so that I know how I can help”.
