Ocean City State of the City: Infrastructure Gains and the Future of 600 Boardwalk

During a meeting that combined positive updates on city growth with detailed discussions on coastal development, Mayor Jay Gillian delivered his annual State of the City speech Thursday night. He highlighted strong bond ratings and effective flood-prevention efforts, but the most intense debate centered on a $15,000 professional services contract that could influence the future of the city’s famous boardwalk.

The “Battle Tested” Planner for 600 Boardwalk

The Council approved Resolution 26-88 to hire Jennifer Heller from Holstine and Associates LLC as a dedicated professional planner. Her primary role is to help the City Council assess upcoming proposals for 600 Boardwalk, the location previously known as Gillian’s Wonderland Pier.

Councilman Dave Winslow championed the appointment, offering a detailed explanation of why the Council needs its own “dedicated eyes” on the project. He pointed out that although both the Planning Board and the property developer have their own planners, the City Council requires an independent party to ensure “procedural compliance.”

Winslow expressed concern that without City Council’s independent due diligence, the process might not be procedurally compliant in evaluating all options. He characterized Heller as “battle-tested” given her experience working with other municipalities navigating similar contested development issues.

Heller’s review will span 45 days, covering aspects such as Master Plan alignment and environmental (CAFRA) issues. Council members highlighted that this step is a safeguard for the city’s financial interests, with Council President Terry Crowley Jr. confirming that the city will not explore “PILOT” (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) programs. Any future development at the site will be required to pay full taxes, just like other businesses on the island.

Boardwalk Vitality

The meeting also emphasized a rising, though somewhat divided, interest in renewing the north end of the boardwalk. Councilman Sean Barnes presented a new organization named CLAMS (Citizens Looking to Assist Merchants).

The group has reportedly generated over 100 ideas to boost foot traffic between 5th and 7th Streets. One notable idea was “push-pull” events, like a pizza tasting contest along the boardwalk, where participants would wear wristbands to visit and vote for various merchants. This approach would effectively ‘pull’ crowds toward the quieter ends of the boards.

However, the initiative received a “cautionary yellow light” from the established business community. Wes Kazmark, representing the Boardwalk Merchants (Boardwalk SID), addressed the Council to remind them of the “process” related to boardwalk entertainment.

Kazmark noted that boardwalk merchants already contribute around $90,000 annually through a self-imposed “SID tax’ to support events like the Easter Egg Hunt and Mummers nights. Although he appreciated the enthusiasm of the CLAMS group, he voiced concern that they have not yet contacted the Chamber of Commerce or the SID.

Kazmark cautioned that “It’s easier said than done,’ emphasizing that merchants have been developing their summer plans since October. He advised the new group to collaborate with existing organizations before presenting “100 ideas” publicly, warning that without proper coordination, the initiatives might accidentally “put the cart before the horse.”

Infrastructure and Safety Milestones

Earlier in the evening, Mayor Gillian’s State of the City address highlighted the city’s vast scale. He mentioned that Ocean City needs to be ready to clear two feet of snow in winter and handle trash for 150,000 residents on peak summer days.

The Mayor announced the opening of the new police substation this month and confirmed that the reconstruction of the boardwalk from St. Charles Place to 5th Street is almost finished. In the near future, the city intends to demolish the old police department this summer, which will temporarily add 66 parking spaces in the downtown area.

 Community Notes

During a personal moment, Councilman Tony Polcini reminded residents that March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day. He asked both the city administration and the public to wear yellow and blue on that day to support the community and families, including his own.

The upcoming City Council meeting is set for March 26, during which Finance Director Frank Donado will give a detailed overview of the 2026 municipal budget. The originally scheduled meeting for April 9 has been canceled because of spring break.