Dear Friends,
City Council last night introduced the proposed municipal budget for 2019, and Finance Director Frank Donato made a presentation on projected revenues and expenses.
The draft budget includes a zero increase to the municipal tax rate.
Although debt service on our capital improvement program continues to increase gradually as we take on more and more projects, that cost was offset by savings in other areas.
A renegotiation of retirement health care benefits will save the city more than $2 million this year. Our tax base continues to grow – with $133 million in new ratables helping to bring in new revenue.
I want to thank my senior staff and the entire city team for working on behalf of all taxpayers to deliver this responsible budget.
The introduced budget is available online at www.ocnj.us/finance Public hearing and adoption will be held on April 11.
Council also voted to approve our five-year capital plan. This is a road map for our infrastructure investments in the coming years.
Bond ordinances were introduced at last night’s meeting in order to advance several projects and acquisitions identified in the capital plan as well as provide for the city’s share of our affordable housing obligation.
Public hearing and adoption of these funding ordinances will be held at the March 28 City Council meeting.
Our north end drainage project continues to proceed on schedule, with major work scheduled along Bay Avenue next week.
Starting Monday morning, Bay Avenue from 2nd to 6th Street will be closed to traffic as the contractor performs milling, fill work, and paving of the road surface.
Closure of the street is expected for most of next week in order to safely perform the work.
The first in a year full of special events takes place on March 30 when Darren Sproles and Matt Stairs highlight our Sports Memorabilia Show at the Ocean City Music Pier.
Tickets are on sale for special meet-and-greet sessions with the two Philly legends at www.oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.
It’s not too late to plan for Girls Weekend in downtown Ocean City from April 5 to 7.
More information on the event and special packages is available on the event blog and Facebook. Tickets also are on sale for the Mr. Mature America Pageant featuring guest host Barbara Eden on April 13.
I hope you all have a great weekend.
Warm regards,
Mayor Jay Gillian
