By LESLEY GRAHAM
Tony Wilson, a fourth generation Ocean City resident, is running for re-election for his Third Ward City Council seat.
Born and raised in Ocean City, Wilson is the owner of Wilson Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, a local service company that has been operating in Ocean City for the past 50 years.
Wilson, 50, a graduate of LaSalle University, has two children. Tony, 20, is a sophomore at LaSalle, following in his father’s footsteps, and his daughter, Julia Marie, is a high school junior who previously reigned as Junior Miss Ocean City.
Wilson is involved in a number of community groups throughout town, including the VFW and the American Legion, as well as being a former member of the Exchange Club.
He is also an avid fisherman and belongs to the Rainbow Fishing Club – the oldest fishing club in the country. He also serves on the board of directors of the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce.
When asked why he is seeking re-election, Wilson stated, “We have an incredible synergy on the Council. We always keep the taxpayer first and that’s why our taxes are one of the lowest in the state for the services we receive.”
Wilson, who has served on City Council for nine years, said he is determined to keep Ocean City as “America’s Greatest Family Resort.”
“I want to make sure our beaches, bays and Boardwalk are the absolute focal point for visitors, guests and residents alike,” he said in an interview Friday. “Our downtown is second to none in small-town shopping, and I will continue to work to fix years of neglected infrastructure for future generations.”
“I have a proven record for maintaining a low tax base and my job on the City Council would be to continue to work to watch out for the taxpayer because they are the ones that invest in this great city,” he continued. “Ocean City is unique with our blue chip stock in real estate, and I want to ensure they get the best return on their investment on our beautiful island.”
As a lifelong resident, it can be easy to overlook all of the things that make living in Ocean City so attractive, but Wilson tries to remember that in every season there is something to be grateful for.
“Whether it’s getting out for some fishing in the early days of spring, or catching a sunset in Corson’s Inlet in the fall, there is always something to remind me that I love where I live,” he said. “And my job on the City Council is to share that love with all my constituents.”
