Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian
Dear Friends:
The city accepted a $26,000 donation to our surf chair program this afternoon. A local family made the donation in memory of Terry Pacera. The beach at 52nd Street was her happy place, and the surf chairs helped her enjoy her final months with friends and family.
I want to thank the Paceras and all the people who contributed to the memorial fund that made this donation possible.
Surf chairs make it possible for people with limited mobility to navigate the soft sand on the beach, and the program is part of our ongoing efforts to improve accessibility in all parts of Ocean City.
As of this week, all four electric-vehicle charging stations at Ninth Street and Haven Avenue are Tesla-capable. The fast-charging stations can recharge an electric vehicle in about 45 minutes, while the Level 2 stations behind City Hall take about 4 or 5 hours. This is a great service to our residents and guests.
Our Recreation Division has been running a special needs dance program at the Community Center, and they gave a recital at the Senior Center on Wednesday. I was able to stop by, and I’m proud to see us providing such great services to all members of our community. It was great to see so many smiles all around.
At yesterday’s meeting, City Council approved the first reading of an organizational change for the city team. Running the city is a big operation, and we’re always looking to improve efficiency.
Right now, we’re balancing about 30 capital projects, so we’re going to create a separate department dedicated to this work. Public Works will again become its own department that can concentrate on repairing and maintaining our streets, boardwalk, beaches, buildings and other infrastructure. This is a massive operation on its own.
We have great teams in place, and this new structure will help them continue to serve our residents and taxpayers.
After hearing extensive feedback from many construction companies serving local residents, Council tabled an ordinance that would have restricted on-street parking for trailers and dumpsters. Improving the availability and convenience of parking remains a priority, and we will work with all stakeholders to see if we can come up with solution that works for everybody.
I have asked the city team to look at updating many other zoning ordinances, and I can assure you that it’s not always an easy task. Every action has a reaction, not all of them intended. We will keep the public informed as these recommendations take shape.
I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah. The downtown will be celebrating another Festive Friday tonight. Horse-and-carriage rides and photos with Santa will be available this weekend.
A list of winners and participating homes in our annual Holiday House Decorating Contest is available here at www.ocnj.us/
Volunteers from St. Peter’s are planning to serve their annual Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day. I want to thank the church for providing this important service and for being mindful of the needs of others. That community spirit is what makes Ocean City special.
Don’t forget to pick up your First Night buttons. They’re on sale now – online and at all of our welcome centers. Our First Night Committee is still seeking a few volunteers, particularly for some of the later shifts. If you can help out, please let us know at: firstnightocnj.com/volunteer.
I turned 60 this week, and I want to thank all of the people who extended birthday greetings. I hope you all have a great weekend and remember to shop local as the holidays approach.
Warm regards,
Mayor Jay A. Gillian
