Mayor Jay Gillian: Keep Working Together 3 Years After Sandy

Central Avenue at the south end of Ocean City in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy in October 2012. Dear Friends, Earlier this week, we marked the three year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy. By appearances, Ocean City has returned to the family resort our residents and guests have come to know and love.  We have had three consecutive great summer seasons.  But there are still families who are working to lift their homes and navigate the funding mechanisms established after the storm. I think back to everyone who contributed time and effort to help their neighbors three years ago, and I ask that you all stay diligent to keep an eye out for the few families who are still working to return to normal.  I am so proud of our actions following the storm and don’t ever want to lose track of the great things our community did for one another. I’m happy to pass along good news recently reported by our Tax Assessor.  Ocean City has experienced a total of $165 million in added property assessments for the past 12 months ending October 1, 2015.  This is a positive sign to our local economy and is the direct result of all the new construction and renovation activity that has taken place in the past year. This marks the second year in a row of gains of more than $100 million in property assessments.  The increases in assessments are reflective of the City’s strong financial practices and a contributing factor in our excellent bond rating. It’s also a clear demonstration that property owners are continuing to invest in all that Ocean City has to offer.  Whether you’re a primary or secondary homeowner, Ocean City remains one of the most attractive destinations to live due to our reputation as a clean, safe and friendly town with a great school system, beautiful beaches, award-winning Boardwalk and Downtown areas, and a list of fun, family-oriented events that goes on and on throughout the year. A reminder that City-wide trick or treating will be held Saturday, October 31 from 5 to 8 p.m. We hope families enjoy this annual event, and offer a few safety tips that can be followed when Trick or Treating:

• Wear reflective clothing
• Stay in large groups
• Young children should be accompanied by an adult
• Obey the Pedestrian safety laws – It is dark and vehicle drivers may not see you
• Carry a flashlight
• Costumes should not restrict visibility
• Do not open any candy until you get home and your parents inspect the items
• Report any suspicious person or activity to the police immediately

I hope everyone enjoys the holiday and has a great weekend. Warm regards, Jay A. Gillian Mayor