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Mayor's Message: March 4

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Dear Friends, I want to remind you that a virtual public hearing on Ocean Wind’s plans to bring transmission lines across Ocean City as part of a proposed offshore wind energy project will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, March 7. Information on how to watch and participate is available on the city website at www.ocnj.us
. The city is not in agreement with state legislation that allows the applicant to sidestep local review. But no matter where you stand on the issue, I think it’s important for Ocean City voices to be heard. The city removed a large wooden cross that was recently placed on the beach at 14th Street to pay tribute to veterans. I appreciate the sentiment of these memorials and fully support our veterans, but our local VFW and American Legion commanders are in agreement with the decision to remove the cross. A statewide ban on single-use plastic carryout bags will take effect on May 4, and the city has received many questions. Please visit our FAQ for complete guidance on the new law: www.ocnj.us/bagban. Michele and I would like to extend deepest condolences to Ocean City Fire Chief Jim Smith, who lost his father this week. I know Jim was exceptionally proud of his father (also Jim Smith), who served the Philadelphia Fire Department for 41 years and retired as a deputy chief. We owe a debt of gratitude to all firefighters and their families. We also want to extend condolences to the many family and friends of Travis Waid. Travis was well-known in the school community and a dedicated supporter of the Ocean City High School Drama Guild. He will be greatly missed. Warm regards, Mayor Jay A. Gillian