Warren Copeland, a notable advocate for historic preservation, was recognized for his 17 years of service on the Historic Preservation Commission. His work was instrumental in drafting ordinances and spearheading initiatives that ultimately removed Cape May from the endangered list of National Historic Landmarks. His advocacy extended to the recognition of African-American contributions, an achievement acknowledged by both the state and federal levels.

In conjunction with these recognitions, the council considered a proposal to establish a task force focused on revitalizing and promoting Cape May’s history. This proposal aimed to transform the city’s historical archives into an integrated part of community life through tools like maps and plaques commemorating historical buildings that no longer exist. A member of the Center for Community Arts shared insights into the idea of designating Franklin Street as an African-American Arts and Cultural District. This would enhance grant opportunities and raise awareness about the city’s African-American history, a subject of frequent visitor inquiries.

The meeting also included presentations on the preservation efforts for historically significant sites such as the Harriet Tubman Museum, the A.M.E. Church, and the Franklin Street School. These sites had previously been listed on Preservation New Jersey’s “10 Most Endangered” buildings list, but thanks to community efforts, progress in restoration has been made. The A.M.E. Church, which suffered a fire, is undergoing restoration with plans to repair its stained glass windows. The council viewed slides illustrating the restoration journey of these sites.

In a separate but related matter, the council acknowledged the contributions of outgoing council member Michael Joerger, who was presented with a proclamation by the mayor. Joerger was recognized for his service since November 2021 and his involvement in various committees including the Cape May City Planning Board and the police building task force. He expressed gratitude for the support he received during his tenure, emphasizing the commitment required for council duties and the impact on family life. The mayor welcomed Steve Bodner, Joerger’s successor, with expectations of continuing the legacy of service.

The council meeting also saw expressions of gratitude from several members for the collaborative efforts in governing Cape May. The city solicitor and city manager both highlighted the productive working relationship within the council, contrasting it with the broader political climate. The city manager praised the community’s spirit, noting a holiday decoration contest among city departments, and acknowledged the efforts of the Department of Public Works and police department in organizing the largest holiday parade to date.