Dear Friends,
I would like to announce the first of several planned 2019 town hall meetings on issues including drainage, dredging and a new public safety building. The first public meeting will address our affordable housing obligations and plans. The presentation is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 12 at the Ocean City Tabernacle (550 Wesley Avenue). I encourage you all to attend to learn more and share feedback on this initiative. The plan is the result of a state Supreme Court order for all municipalities in New Jersey to provide affordable housing for families, individuals and the elderly.
We were reminded this week how much we rely on our exceptional public safety teams in Ocean City. I want to commend our firefighters and our entire city team for their response to a fire in the 4800 block of Central Avenue. Their quick and efficient actions protected lives and property. They deserve our respect and gratitude.
I also want to extend my thoughts and prayers to the families facing the devastating loss of these homes. I hope the rebuilding process is as smooth as it can reasonably be.
First Night is on Monday, and there’s no better way to celebrate New Year’s Eve with your entire family. If you’re in town this weekend, stop by the City Hall Welcome Center at Ninth Street and Asbury Avenue or the Roy Gillian Welcome Center on the Ninth Street causeway to get your all-inclusive admission buttons. You also can order your buttons online at firstnightocnj.com or by calling 609-399-6111. The lineup includes entertainment and activities that run non-stop from 4 p.m. through fireworks at midnight.
Because New Year’s Day falls on Tuesday, there will be a change to the regular schedule of trash and recycling pickup. Regularly scheduled pickup will be pushed back by one day for most residents. See more information.
Michele and I also would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year, and we hope to see you at First Night and First Day.
Warm regards,
Jay A. Gillian
Mayor
