A focal point of the meeting was the swearing-in ceremony for newly elected council members. Shawn McGuigan, representing Ward One, was joined by his family as he took his oath of office, administered by Atlanta County Commissioner Moren Kern. This was followed by the swearing-in of Morgan Slaughter as the council member for Ward Two, with her father, former Mayor John D. Maria, officiating the proceedings. After the ceremonial oaths, the council moved to elect its leadership for the year 2026. Kirk Cody was unanimously elected as council president, while Janice Johnston was chosen as president pro tempore, each receiving strong support from their fellow council members.

In addition to leadership appointments, the council addressed several key resolutions, including the appointment of Thomas E. Smith as municipal solicitor and Adam Barker as the municipal prosecutor. Frank Lintz was appointed as the public defender, and Greg Schneider of Kate Schneider Engineering LLC was named the city engineer, receiving commendations for his firm’s contributions to cost-effective city projects.

Mayor Dennis Tapp provided an update on the city’s development plans, noting the community’s growth and the successful completion of housing projects like Salt House and Lynx of Great Bay, which feature affordable housing options. He emphasized the importance of preserving Somers Point’s maritime heritage through the opening of new businesses such as South Jersey Yachts and Way Point Marine. Upcoming business openings, including Aldi’s, Chick-fil-A, and Panera Bread, were highlighted as part of efforts to stabilize the tax base and stimulate the local economy. The mayor described these initiatives as investments in the city’s future.

Infrastructure improvements were a topic of discussion, with safety enhancements along key roadways marked as ongoing priorities. The council also passed resolutions appointing members to various boards and commissions, including the Historic Preservation Commission, Planning Board, Environmental Commission, and Veterans Advisory Board. These appointments aim to involve community members in the city’s governance and development processes.

The meeting further acknowledged the contributions of individuals and groups to the community. A notable proclamation recognized Larry Lemieux, the American Legion Post Commander, for his leadership in the Hometown Hero campaign, which honors local veterans with banners throughout the city. The council also honored Judge Howard E. Freed for his 14 years of service as municipal judge, along with Phil Gaffne for his role as coordinator of the Office of Emergency Management. Despite Gaffne’s absence due to illness, the community expressed appreciation for his dedication.

Resolution Number Three involved the appointments of Harbor Master Mike Kediora, Municipal Coordinator Chief Robert Summers, and Deputy Coordinators Jack Shields and Mike Kediora, who were sworn in with an oath to support the Constitution and perform their duties faithfully. The meeting continued with the passage of the 2026 temporary budget and various zoning board appointments.

The council also addressed community engagement efforts, including a tradition of hosting an after-party following the meeting, intended to foster informal interactions among community members.

Finally, the council accepted the resignation of a council member and swiftly moved to fill the resulting vacancy. The meeting concluded with routine administrative actions, including the approval of upcoming bills and the adjournment of the session.