OC OKs $9M Bond

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City Council unanimously approved a $9 million bond ordinance July 11, funding several projects.
Frank Donato, city finance director, told council before the vote the bond is consistent with the adopted capital plan.
He said the projects include $4.2 million in roadwork on streets and alleys, $1.8 million for stormwater drainage improvements and $3 million for lagoon and back-bay dredging to clear waterways for boating.
More details of the planned projects can be found at www.ocnj.us under the title “government,” where there is a link for capital projects.
David Breeden, vice president of the organization Fairness in Taxes, said at the public hearing he supports any ordinance funding improvements, like paving and road drainage but said he had concerns about planning for some paving projects. He suggested streets have been opened for utility work soon after paving.
“Anything to enhance the infrastructure of this town we support and we will help pass. However, we want to make sure when a street’s paved it is not cut open two months after it’s paved,” Breeden said.
City Business Administrator George Savastano responded the specific instance Breeden raised was requested by New Jersey-American Water for a section of street paved by South Jersey Gas. He said the road was well repaired after the work. There was new construction in the area that required the opening.