Ocean City Council Tables Planner Contract For Wonderland Evaluation

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Ocean City Council voted to table a resolution to award a professional services contract to Jennifer L. Heller of Polistina and Associates LLC, which is headed by Atlantic County Sen. Vince Polistina.

The contract was intended to engage a professional planner to assist the city council in evaluating proposals regarding the 600 Boardwalk property, which is the former Wonderland site. The decision to table the resolution followed extensive discussion among council members and public comments expressing concerns about the process and transparency.

Councilman David Winslow raised initial questions about the resolution's wording, specifically regarding the mayor's inclusion in the action. Council President Terry Crowley explained that the mayor's inclusion was for "legal ease" and mirrored previous resolutions for similar appointments.

Winslow questioned the need for an additional planner, noting the city had recently hired a land use attorney. He sought clarity on the scope of work for the proposed planner.

"I'd be more interested what is the scope of this proposed planner's job? What are we hiring this person to do?" Winslow said.

Crowley advocated for the contract, emphasizing a proactive, information-gathering approach.

"Let's be proactive. Let's marry up the timelines here with the subcommittee, with the advice of our land use attorney, and with an independent planning report," Crowley said. He also confirmed that any report generated would be made available to the public.

Councilman Michael Allegretto supported the contract, noting the new land use attorney, John Ridgeway, recommended the planner.

Councilman Sean Barnes, while not believing anything "nefarious" was occurring, wished for more engagement from the council in the process. He suggested tabling the resolution to allow for further discussion and understanding of the planner's role.

Resident Matthew Vichko highlighted the "nonfair and open process" for selecting the planner, noting the absence of an RFQ or RFP. Other residents echoed concerns about transparency and the lack of clarity regarding the planner's duties and contract details.

Winslow moved to table the resolution for three weeks, a motion seconded by Allegretto. The motion to table passed with a 6-1 vote. This postponement will allow council members to gather more information and obtain a clearer understanding of the planner's scope of work and objectives for the 600 Boardwalk property.