Ocean City Mayor Hosts Town Hall on Upcoming Projects

Mayor Jay Gillian seeks reelection in three-way race as he updates residents on city initiatives.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:05am

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A nostalgic, cinematic painting of the exterior of a public library building, with warm sunlight casting long shadows across the facade and surrounding area, conveying a sense of civic engagement and community.The upcoming town hall at the Ocean City Public Library will allow residents to engage directly with mayoral candidates on the city's future plans and initiatives.Ocean City Today

Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian is hosting a town hall meeting on Saturday, April 11 at the local public library to discuss ongoing projects in the city. Gillian, who is currently seeking reelection for a fifth term, is facing challenges from two city council members - Keith Hartzell and Pete Madden - in the upcoming nonpartisan election on May 12.

Why it matters

As a popular tourist destination, the projects and initiatives undertaken by the Ocean City mayor are of keen interest to both residents and visitors. The town hall provides an opportunity for the mayor to directly address the community and garner support ahead of the upcoming election, where he faces competition from two sitting council members.

The details

The town hall meeting will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 11 at the Ocean City Free Public Library. Mayor Gillian plans to provide updates on various ongoing projects and initiatives in the city. Gillian, who has served as mayor since 2012, is seeking reelection against council members Keith Hartzell and Pete Madden in the May 12 nonpartisan election.

  • The town hall meeting is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 10 a.m.
  • The Ocean City nonpartisan mayoral election is set for May 12, 2026.

The players

Jay Gillian

The incumbent mayor of Ocean City, New Jersey, who is seeking reelection for a fifth term.

Keith Hartzell

A member of the Ocean City Council who is challenging Gillian for the mayoral seat.

Pete Madden

Another Ocean City Council member running against Gillian and Hartzell in the mayoral election.

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What they’re saying

“I look forward to updating residents on the important projects we have underway and our vision for the future of Ocean City.”

— Jay Gillian, Mayor of Ocean City

What’s next

The Ocean City mayoral election will take place on May 12, 2026, where voters will choose between incumbent Mayor Jay Gillian and challengers Keith Hartzell and Pete Madden.

The takeaway

As a popular tourist destination, the leadership and vision of the Ocean City mayor is crucial for the city's future. The upcoming town hall and election provide an opportunity for residents to engage with the candidates and understand their plans for the community.