Mayor
June 26, 2026
Dear Friends,
City Council last night approved the designation of 600 Boardwalk as an “Area in Need of Rehabilitation.” This action allows City Council and the owner to begin negotiations on a new vision for the property. It’s always been my hope to see something spectacular there — something that would benefit Ocean City residents, neighbors and guests, along with Boardwalk businesses and the entire city. I look forward to seeing Council work with the community and the owner to continue this important process.
I want to thank the Miss New Jersey organization and congratulate all the contestants in last week’s competition. It was great to welcome Miss New Jersey back home to Ocean City, and I’m looking forward to hosting the event for many years to come. I also want to thank Karen Mahar, the city team and all volunteers for their tireless work putting together the Miss New Jersey Parade on the Boardwalk. It’s always a fun way for everyone to see all the contestants before the start of the competition.
I’m happy to announce that a “Freedom Truck” will make a stop in Ocean City and be open to visitors from July 21 to July 23 as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary. The traveling mobile museum will offer families the opportunity to explore the nation’s history through an interactive exhibit designed for all ages. The Freedom Truck will be stationed in the municipal parking lot adjacent to the Ocean City Civic Center, just off the Boardwalk between Fifth Street and Sixth Street. It will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (July 21-23, 2026). More information is available here.
The Freedom Truck is not the only new attraction in Ocean City this summer. We will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation this summer with a weekly patriotic drone show over the beach and Boardwalk south of Sixth Street. The show will feature hundreds of drones lighting up the sky and creating animations that salute America. The 15-minute shows will be held after dusk on seven Mondays from July 6 through August 17. The first drone show of the season will be on July 2 following the free outdoor Ocean City Pops Concert at 8 p.m. at Carey Stadium. If you’ve never seen a Pops show, this is a great opportunity to be introduced to our wonderful local orchestra and to see the spectacular display of lights
We’re also bringing entertainment to the Sandcastle Park playground and recreation area at 34th Street. The series will be from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings from July 8 to August 19. Events will feature themed entertainment, live performers, face painters and balloon makers. More information Fourth of July and all summer events is available here.
Last week, I gave a shout-out to our Recreation Division’s Jackie Adams, who was one of the coaches who traveled with 74 New Jersey athletes to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota. I’m happy to provide this update: Anthony Conner won gold in the 1,500-meter track event.
I’m sad to report on the loss of William Gleeson. Bill was an Ocean City High School athlete and member of the Ocean City Beach Patrol before serving our community as owner and operator of Gleeson’s TV. Bill’s life was filled with fun and faith, and he will be missed. Please join Michele and me in extending deepest condolences to his family and friends.
The Ocean City Free Public Library has set up a tent for special outdoor programs this summer on the newly landscaped block of open space adjacent to the library parking lot. Everybody is invited to a summer kickoff event 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 30. “Unearth a Story” will include dinosaurs, games, live music by the Hampton Brass Quartet + Drums, along with an opportunity to sign up for summer reading and check out the Bookmobile. The event is open to all ages.
I want to remind everybody that the latest information and updates on our upcoming beach replenishment project will always be available at ocnj.us/beachupdate, and that page includes a link to sign up for notifications by email.
I want to encourage everyone to come out for our inauguration and City Council reorganization meeting at noon Wednesday, July 1, at the Music Pier. I’m looking forward to working in partnership with Council and the community to achieve many great things on behalf of our taxpayers.
Finally, I want to wish my long-time friend Chucky Baker the happiest of 60th birthdays. We have put up with each other for about 45 years, and there are no friends better than old friends.
Warm regards,
Jay A. Gillian
Mayor
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Welcome to The City of Ocean City, New Jersey!
Ocean City is a town rich in history and a deep sense of community. Families have been vacationing in Ocean City for generations and many have made Ocean City their year-round home.
Our residents enjoy award-winning schools, world-class recreation facilities and outstanding municipal services from all city departments, including Police, Fire and Rescue, and Beach Patrol. Residents participate in activities for every age and interest including the cultural arts, music and theater as well as sports and recreation programs available at our many parks, playgrounds and city facilities. One of our local treasures is the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue, where families and individuals can enjoy the Ocean City Free Public Library, Ocean City Arts Center, Ocean City Historical Museum, Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center, and the Howard S. Stainton Senior Center under one roof.
The city also maintains and operates a municipal airport, 12-hole golf course, Aquatic and Fitness Center as well as the famed Ocean City Pops Orchestra.
Ocean City is also host to more than 200 family-friendly special events held year-round. Many of our events are popular family traditions, including the Night in Venice Boat Parade in July, the Baby Parade in August, our mile-long block parties in May and October, and our family-friendly First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration.
If you are vacationing in Ocean City, I know you’ll enjoy our seven miles of beautiful beaches and exciting Boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants and amusements. And be sure to visit our unique and charming downtown shops and restaurants located in the heart of town on Asbury Avenue.
I am truly proud to serve as mayor for this great community and hope you and your family enjoy your time in America’s Greatest Family Resort.
Jay Gillian, Mayor
Phone: 609-525-9333
Email: mayor@ocnj.us
