Letter from Jim: The future of our Boardwalk & Wonderland Pier
Dear Friends, Neighbors, and Supporters,
With less than two weeks before our upcoming election on May 12, I wanted to take a moment to talk about an important issue that’s taken up much of Council’s time over the past year: Ocean City’s Boardwalk and the closing of Wonderland. The Boardwalk is essential to the fabric of our community. It creates a sense of belonging to the families that live and vacation here. We eat, play, shop, and work on this small but powerful section of our city, and it is fundamental to Ocean City’s identity and economic vitality.
Protecting our Boardwalk is our collective responsibility. City Council members have a paramount role in this regard. To fulfill that role well, Council members must possess unique professional and personal experience and skills. They must have experience in long-term community and economic planning; strong financial acumen and discipline, a vision for the future, and the ability to harness the great depth of talent among all stakeholders to explore and implement the best decisions.
The closure of Wonderland has created an opportunity for us to come together as a community, seek common ground, and chart a course for the Boardwalk to thrive in the decades ahead. This opportunity extends beyond the boundaries of the 600 Boardwalk parcel, as it should also include the entire experience and economic vitality from 6th to 14th streets. If we do it right, our children and grandchildren will thank us for preserving and enhancing this important piece of America’s Greatest Family Resort.
Why Experience Matters
A successful path forward for the former Wonderland property requires a City Council that knows how to lead, rather than being led. Council members must be adept in complex land use matters, long-term financial planning, and be committed to our values, neighborhoods, and economy. It’s crucial that we have Council members who bring a proven track record of achieving effective compromise resulting in durable solutions that stand the test of time. There is no room for self-dealing, flip-flopping, or inexperience.
I am proud to bring relevant experience, skill, and conviction that can lead to a timely and successful result for our Boardwalk. For more than 40 years, I have worked with municipalities across the country in finding common ground and building communities that align with local values and elevate the towns, villages, and cities where we operate. Throughout my campaign, and previously in speaking in front of Council and fellow residents, I’ve consistently communicated support for our Boardwalk and its surrounding neighborhoods based on thoughtful, implementable compromise.
My Action Steps
As a member of City Council, I will:
Exercise the courage and conviction to engage stakeholders of all perspectives in finding common ground and timely, durable solutions for our Boardwalk, including the former Wonderland property.
Use City Council’s zoning authority and the City’s planning resources to support the continued investment in Boardwalk properties and businesses.
Support city and business leadership efforts to activate the Boardwalk’s north end.
Strengthen the Tourism Commission’s mission and ability to drive long-term development and innovation of the Boardwalk’s economic vitality
The future of our Boardwalk is also the future of Ocean City. As you consider who deserves your vote on May 12, I strongly suggest you ask the candidates for Council and Mayor their specific plans to protect its long-term viability and health, and to ensure it remains a place that continues to serve residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
If you have any questions, I encourage you to reach out by email at jim@kellyforcouncil.com, or come to one of my upcoming Meet & Greets highlighted on my Facebook & Instagram pages. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have and welcome your suggestions.
Thank you for your ongoing encouragement and support.
Jim