Council Looks To Curb Teen Gatherings In Ocean City

OCEAN CITY, NJ — City officials are looking at new ways to stop large gatherings of teenagers at beaches, parks and the boardwalk.

An ordinance introduced at a recent City Council meeting would reclassify violations to be a "breach of the peace," which would give "police a little more latitude in dealing with juveniles who breached that section of the ordinance," said City Solicitor Dorothy McCrosson.

Over the summer there were several "pop-up" parties that lead to arrests and property damages across the Jersey Shore. Issues with minors have been growing over the past two summers, with officials blaming statewide changes in laws that mean officers only can issue a warning in most cases.

Residents and City Council members have recently voiced concerns about groups of teenagers gathering, damaging Ocean City's family-friendly reputation.

Usage of loud music, alcohol and drugs, and littering were cited as big issues in July by several residents, who said that these gatherings were turning people away from coming to Ocean City.

At the time, Councilman Jody Levchuk called the gatherings "essentially the hottest nightclub at the Jersey Shore for teenagers right now." Read More: Ocean City Residents Worry About Teen Beach Gatherings

The lengthy ordinance gives police more power to deal with issues like public smoking in smoke-free areas, curfew violations, graffiti, littering, noise and more.

A public hearing and final vote on the ordinance will be held on Jan. 12.