CAPE MAY — After being sworn in to his fifth term Jan. 22, Mayor Zack Mullock addressed the community with his State of the City address.
“It is an honor and a privilege to stand before you today to deliver my fifth State of the City address,” he said. “I first must express my gratitude to all the wonderful citizens of the city of Cape May who’ve entrusted me to be their mayor. I’m thrilled to report today that the state of our city is strong and vibrant.”
Mullock grew up in the city where he now raises his family. He brings his experience as a council member and being on multiple boards to his current position.
Mullock recognized that his role is not an independent job, saying nothing would be accomplished without the community’s support.
“Just to remember that these accomplishments are those of the community, not just one council member, but of a united community working together toward a common goal,” he said.
Mullock provided a summary of what has been accomplished during his previous terms.
Preserving natural areas like the trail walk between the Atlantic Ocean and the Coast Guard base has been a priority and continues to be, he said. He also succeeded in refurbishing buildings and infrastructure that have been a part of Cape May’s history.
“Over the past four years, we’ve saved three buildings that were listed as New Jersey’s top ten most endangered sites,” he said. “The Hull House, the Franklin Street School and AME Church, which are all shining examples of what happens when we work together as a community.”
Cape May’s infrastructure has been a priority to ensure safety. All wells and water pumps are operational and an update to the water transmission line makes repairing individual pumps possible.
“The key to our strength lies in our financial health,” Mullock said. “Today, I’m proud to say all three of our utilities — water, tourism and beach — are thriving.”
Sidewalks, storm drains and sewer line repairs have made the town safer and more accessible for community members.
“We’ve added a new ADA-accessible beach walk to provide access to everyone,” Mullock said. “The new beach walks allow residents and guests of all abilities to enjoy the natural beauty of our environment.”
Mullock said he was touched by the feedback he received from people who now visit the beach when they previously could not.
Increasing parking spots to make the city less congested was another successful project.
“Taking on one of Cape May’s longest-standing challenges, we have created over 100 parking spaces downtown. It makes a big impact,” he said.
Mullock spoke about upcoming projects he intends to start during his fifth term.
“Over the next several months, I want to highlight a couple of the projects,” he said.
The city received a $6.7 million grant to be used toward ADA accessibility and upgrading the Promenade. Residents will see these updates starting this spring.
There also will be a new community center opening at the former library branch.
“You asked and we listened,” Mullock said. “Within the next two months, we’ll be opening our new community center at the old library on Ocean Street.”
Another upcoming project this summer is two miles of walkable nature trails behind Lafayette Street Park. This will be a new space for residents to enjoy.
“For over 10 years, we’ve been in permitting and litigation with multiple people,” Mullock said. “We have finally settled with JCP&L, which means soon we can finally finish Lafayette Street Park.”
Construction is expected to start next week on the dog park and ball field in the park.
Regarding beach infrastructure, a seawall will be built to protect residents and businesses.
By JULIA DIGERONIMO/For the Star and Wave