Mayor
July 17, 2026
Dear Friends,
Sand pumping is underway at the north end, and the first newly replenished beach opened this morning at First Street and St. Charles Place. The completed beach is both elevated and wide, with plenty of room for
beachgoers and great protection from storms. The Ocean City Beach Patrol has reopened two guarded beaches to swimming along this stretch.
I’m excited to see the work progress toward 12th Street, including some of the beaches that need sand the most. Daily updates are always available on the city website at ocnj.us/beachupdate.
The beach entrance at Morningside Road has reopened, and we’re working to smooth out an ADA-compliant path adjacent to the vehicle access. But please keep this area clear of bikes and strollers so the contractor will have access for maintenance deliveries during the project.
The city has still not received the official tax rate from the state and county. Annual tax bills will be delayed going out, and the grace period will be extended accordingly.
Our next neighborhood flood mitigation project will be from 19th Street to 26th Street, and the project is out to bid. We hope to award a contract at our August 20 meeting.
We have more than 50 boats registered for Night in Venice so far. We’re looking forward to another great event on July 25 with grand marshals John Kruk and Randy Quaid, special guests George and Martha Washington, Ben Franklin, Betsy Ross, and Thomas Jefferson, a patriotic Santa Claus, fireworks and more. There’s still time to register your boat or home to participate. More information on all the weekend fun is available at ocnj.us/niv.
The new entertainment series at 34th Street and the new drone show at 6th Street are both off to a great start. We’ve seen big crowds and have heard nothing but great feedback. You can check out our “America 250: Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show” at 9 p.m. every Monday through August 24. You can get a great view from the Boardwalk south of 6th Street. The 34th Street Sandcastle Park Summer Entertainment Series brings family fun to the recreation complex every Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. through August 19.
Check out this week's "Inside City Hall" below. I hope you all have a great weekend with family and friends. Be safe and have fun.
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
