Boardwalk Updates, OC 2050 Leadership News, In the Media, and More…

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As Ocean City moves through another busy summer season, the conversation about the future of our Boardwalk continues. In this issue, we share updates on OC 2050's ongoing advocacy efforts, as highlighted by a number of articles in the media, and an update on our Community Guidelines.

Today's newsletter covers several important topics:

• We've announced a new moderation and content policy for our Facebook page comment section, to ensure that all conversations among community members are respectful and civil.

• In his latest Letter to the Editor in this week’s Sentinel, Bill Merritt examines why, more than a month after the rehabilitation vote, Ocean City residents are still waiting for answers about whether the clear promises Council made were real—or simply a means to secure the vote.

• New OC 2050 Board Member Susan Cracovaner's Ocean City Sentinel opinion piece explores why informed, respectful civic participation matters—and why disagreement doesn't have to become division. It's a timely reminder that the strongest communities are built through involvement, transparency, and civil discourse.

• We're also very pleased to announce our newest OC2050 Board members Howie Atkinson and Susan Cracovaner. Their experience and commitment to Ocean City will strengthen our work in the months ahead.
  
  Keep an eye on your inbox in the coming days and weeks; we expect to have more news to share in the near future and will continue to keep you informed.
  
  Thank you for your continued support and engagement.
  
  Bill Merritt
  President, Ocean City 2050

Welcome New Board Members

The strength of any community organization begins with the people who volunteer to serve. We’re excited to introduce you to our newest OC 2050 Board Members Howie Atkinson and Susan Cracovaner—neighbors who bring decades of experience in business, planning, education, public service, and community leadership, all united by a shared commitment to Ocean City's future.

We’re Neighbors First: Community Guidelines for Social Media & Beyond

If you follow OC2050 on social media, you may have noticed a recent post on our Facebook page highlighting a call for stricter community guidelines. Our organization was founded on the belief that residents can disagree passionately while still treating one another with respect. We welcome debate. We welcome differing opinions. We do not welcome intimidation, harassment, or threats that hurt civic discussion.

It’s with sadness that we share toxicity, especially on social media, has escalated to include personal threats to OC 2050 members and their families. We know this isn’t how OCers want to treat one another.

We also want to share clarifications on our own communications:

1. We do not have the ability to monitor and engage on social media 24/7, but will do our best to support civility. Thank you to everyone for doing their part to help keep the conversation healthy and productive.

2. No individuals, even those who support OC 2050, speak for OC 2050 when posting as individuals. Comments representing OC2050 will only be from the official group page.

3. Because we have limited ability to watch our social media, we welcome you to reach out via direct message if you need our help regarding misconduct.

Ocean City has always been a community of neighbors first. Let's keep this page that way. Thank you!

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