Dear Friends,
I want to thank local real estate professionals for their cooperation in fighting the spread of coronavirus.
Yesterday, I joined the mayors of Cape May County in urging the elimination of all short-term rentals for the duration of the governor’s executive orders, and I noted in an update this weekend that local leaders in the real estate industry have agreed to do the same.
I want to clarify that most Ocean City real estate professionals will not accept any new rental agreement with check-in before May 1. I urge all private owners to do the same. It will be necessary to extend this suspension of new rentals beyond April if the governor’s orders continue.
The city’s message to renters and visitors must be clear: Don’t come to Ocean City during the State of Emergency.
I also signed a proclamation this afternoon that prohibits the operation of online marketplaces for arranging lodging for stays during the month of April. If the State of Emergency continues into May, so will this prohibition.
These measures are consistent with the CDC’s new request to stop all nonessential travel and with Gov. Murphy’s executive orders to shelter in place.
Thank you all for your understanding and anticipated cooperation in these matters. I hope all of you and your families stay safe and healthy.
Warm regards,
Mayor Jay A. Gillian
