Dear Friends,

The city administration tries to consider every opportunity we get to add more parking, and City Council last night approved two measures that will help. 

Council approved the first reading of a funding ordinance for the purchase of the restaurant building at the corner of Ninth Street and Central Avenue. Along with our recent acquisition of the frame shop next door and two lots from the 801 Asbury building, the city would own almost an entire block for parking. This will fill an important need for downtown and boardwalk merchants and shoppers. 

Council also approved the first reading of an ordinance related to dumpsters, trailers and construction vehicles. We’ve been working together with Council on this measure for a long time. After meeting with all the stakeholders – residents, contractors, zoning and code officials and others – we feel that this new ordinance is a much-improved way to limit the times and places that dumpsters, trailers and vehicles can take up space on our streets. I think it’s fair to everyone involved, and it will achieve its goal of providing more parking in our neighborhoods.  

I’m proud to announce that Ocean City was named “New Jersey’s Favorite Beach” for the 12th year in a row. It’s an honor to see this annual contest confirm what generations of families already know: Ocean City is the best. I want to thank Council, the entire city team, the Chamber, all our businesses, volunteers, and citizens for everything they do to make Ocean City such a special place.

The families of two active service members are in town this week enjoying a free vacation provided by the American Legion’s Rest and Relaxation Program.

Please join me in welcoming Navy Chief Petty Officer Brandyn Welch and Air Force Staff Sergeant Patrick Mims and their families and in thanking them for their service. I also want to thank the American Legion for maintaining this exceptional program since 2013 and for allowing many military families to enjoy everything that Ocean City has to offer. 

The Ocean City Beach Patrol won the annual Women’s Invitational lifeguard races on Tuesday. Please join me in congratulating them and in thanking them for all they do to keep our residents and guests safe in the ocean.

Night in Venice is a little more than a week away, and we’re all looking forward to another safe and fun celebration. Our grand marshals will include Bernie Parent, Vince Papale and Ruben Amaro Jr. and the Flyers’ Gritty will also be part of the fun.

We experimented with a one-way traffic pattern last summer in the Riviera on Spruce Road and Walnut Road. It helped improve traffic flow and provide better access for emergency vehicles. It worked well enough that we’re going to try the same sort of pattern on Arkansas, Michigan and West 18th Street. 

Police are providing maps to everybody in these neighborhoods and more information will be available on the city website.

I’m sad to report on the recent passing of Patricia Migliaccio. Pat was a familiar face around Ocean City for most of her 90 years. She was a force to be reckoned with and a joy to be around. For many years, she worked as the voice of the Boardwalk PA system, and she was a big supporter of the Ocean City Pops. 

We also lost another beloved citizen who lit up the room whenever he was around. Daniel Oves passed on Tuesday. Danny worked with the family business on the Boardwalk at Fourth Street and was a dedicated volunteer in the community. His family has always been an important part of Ocean City.

Please join Michele and me in extending deepest condolences to all of Danny’s and Pat’s family and friends.

Be safe and have a great weekend.

Warm regards,

Jay A. Gillian
Mayor