On today’s agenda is the second reading and public hearing for a bond ordinance that will fund most of the capital projects included in the capital plan adopted by city council this past December. Some of the key items included are replacement of an EMS ambulance, replacement of the Public Works roll off truck, funding for the continuation of our road and drainage program including the pump station at 46th Street, funding for our share of the beach replenishment program, and funding for new breakwaters and docks at the marina.
Our capital plan and today’s bond ordinance are aimed squarely at resilience and readiness - modernizing emergency response, strengthening drainage, and safeguarding our shoreline. Beach replenishment and the marina improvements will not only enhance recreation but also protect homes, businesses, and public infrastructure from storms and flooding. These are prudent investments that reflect what we’ve heard from residents, second homeowners, and businesses alike: keep Sea Isle safe, accessible, and welcoming.
The contractor for the beach replenishment project, Norfolk Dredging, is working to complete the pipeline connection to the dredge in order to begin sand pumping operations today on our downtown beaches, starting around 43rd Street and heading southward. The beach-fill will proceed to 55th Street; then the project will turn around and go from 43rd to 29th Street.
As we’ve stated before, the dredging operation involved with beach replenishment is very dependent on good sea conditions, so let’s hope for calm seas over the next few weeks, as the contractor works to complete the project prior to the July 4th weekend.
We are posting daily updates about the project on our city website, where you can find out the specific location of sand pumping, and which beach access points are closed.
I thank our residents and visitors for their patience with the temporary beach access changes as we push hard to finish before the heart of summer.
This coming Friday, June 12, is Women Veterans Recognition Day, which we’ll celebrate at 10 a.m. at Veterans Park. On that date in 1948, the Women’s Armed Services Integration act was signed into law by President Harry Truman. Before then, only women nurses could serve in the regular and reserve forces during peacetime. I hope you can join us on Friday, when we honor and recognize the courage, leadership, and sacrifice of our women veterans.
We’re heading into our prime season - Saturday June 20th is our annual Skimmer Festival, followed on Sunday the 21st by our Antique Auto Show and parade.
July 4th is less than 4 weeks from today, and once again, I’m asking all our property owners to fly the American Flag to show our community spirit and patriotism as we approach the nation’s 250th birthday.
Also remember, this coming Sunday, June 14th is flag day, which is another reason to fly the “Stars and Stripes.”
With the crowded conditions we have every summer, I want to remind everyone to drive slowly, bicycle carefully, and be mindful when you’re crossing the streets. We want everyone to be safe, enjoy themselves, and take it easy.
Smile…You’re in Sea Isle!
Mayor Leonard C. Desiderio
During the May 26 City Council meeting, Ordinance 1739 was introduced with first reading. This is a bond ordinance that funds most of the capital projects that were included in the capital plan adopted by city council this past December. The total bond ordinance amount is $6,935,000. It includes equipment and vehicles for Public Works and Public Safety; road and drainage improvements; funding for the city’s share of the beach replenishment project; construction of bulkheads and ramps; construction at the marina boat dock; and various building and facility improvements. Second reading and public hearing for this ordinance will be held at the June 9 council meeting.
After Ordinance 1739 was Introduced, Ordinance 1738 was adopted following its second reading and public hearing. Ordinance 1738 accepted a donation of land – 2 lots located in the wetlands, west of 36th Street and Cini Avenue.
Each of the resolutions on the May 26 consent agenda were approved, including…
• Resolution 065, which amended the adopted budget to accept grant funds from Cape May County in the amount of $12,500 for two drone shows as part of the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
• Resolution 066, which authorized the city to execute a revocable encroachment agreement with a property located at 59th and Sounds Avenue.
• Resolution 069, which authorized award of a 2-year contract for a coffee and iced coffee concession on the beach for 2026 and 2027. The successful vendor is Beach Brew USA, which will pay the city $21,000 for 2026 and $20,000 for 2027 for the rights to sell their product on the beach.
• Resolution 072, which authorized a contract for vending machines in the Community Center. The city receives 20 percent of the revenue from these machines.
• Resolution 074, which authorized an amendment to the 2026 capital budget (primarily to adjust the plan to include the city’s share of funding for the beach replenishment project, which had been previously included in the 2027 capital budget).
During the “Citizen Comment” portion of the May 26 meeting, several citizens stepped to the microphone to express concerns about the conditions at the Oar House Pub on 42nd Place over the past weekend. Specifically, the concerns were regarding the noise emanating from the establishment and the patrons of the establishment drinking upon the city sidewalks and streets. There were also concerns expressed about the Oar House’s extension of premises license to the adjacent property. There was also discussion among council members regarding utilizing the city’s special counsel for ABC licensing matters relative to this situation. The city solicitor will follow up on this.
The city council will review this situation with the administration and follow up to ensure that the matter is addressed appropriately.
Our next City Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 9, at 10:00 AM on the third floor of City Hall – and we hope to see you there!
Best regards from the members of City Council,
Council President Mary Tighe
Ian Ciseck
Frank Edwardi
Michael Jargowski
William Kehner
