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May-June 2026

Cape May County Board of Commissioners

Leonard C. Desiderio
Director

Andrew Bulakowski
Vice Director

Will Morey
Commissioner

Bobby Barr

Commissioner

Patrick Rosenello
Commissioner

Cape May County Administrative
Team

Kevin Lare
County Administrator

Ron Simone
Assistant Administrator

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Commissioner Profile

Commissioner Andrew “Andy” Bulakowski

Vice-Director
Cape May County Board of County Commissioners

Andrew “Andy” Bulakowski serves as Commissioner and Vice-Director of the Cape May County Board of County Commissioners. First elected in November 2022, Bulakowski was re-elected and sworn in for his second term in January 2026. He continues as Vice-Director directing the departments of Transportation, Facilities and Services, and Parks, Recreation & Zoo. His portfolio includes fare-free transportation, facilities management, Park & Zoo operations, and liaison duties with the County Clerk, Adjuster, and Board of Elections. A Senior Council Representative with the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, Bulakowski brings practical expertise from the construction and labor sectors to county government. He is a member of the Cape May County Planning Board and the County Development Review Board. Previously, he served as Vice-Chairman of the Lower Township Planning Board and as Cape May County’s representative on the New Jersey Planning Officials’ Executive Board. Bulakowski has completed coursework in labor law at Rutgers University and in construction psychology and estimating at Gloucester County College. He also holds a 100-ton Master Captain’s license. His lifelong commitment to service earned him the United States Presidential Award for lifetime achievement and dedication to volunteer service in 2015. Bulakowski has donated his carpentry skills to projects such as the Vietnam Veterans Wall in Wildwood, the Coast Guard Enlisted Memorial in Cape May, and memorials for Air Advisors and Disabled American Veterans. He has chaired charity golf tournaments benefiting military affairs, children’s pediatric cancer research through Brendan’s Fund, and Special Olympics, while also volunteering at the Children’s Fresh Air Home in Wildwood. Bulakowski serves on key boards and commissions including the South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization, Safety Board, Park Advisory Board, Solid Waste Advisory Council, and others advancing infrastructure, safety, and environmental goals. A longtime resident of Lower Township, he lives there with his wife, Michelle and their German Shepherd, Hanz. Commissioner Bulakowski shared his vision for his second term: “I’m proud to continue serving the residents of Cape May County and deeply honored to get to work in my second term. We have real opportunities this year to continue to improve the lives of county residents. I’m excited to keep our county moving forward by prioritizing responsible spending, creating well-paying jobs, continued growth in economic development, and spearheading projects that protect the environment and preserve recreational opportunities for our residents and visitors.” Through his leadership and dedication, Commissioner Bulakowski continues to contribute to a thriving Cape May County.

The Director’s Report
By Leonard C. Desiderio Director – Cape May County Board of Commissioners

Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday – Our County's Heritage of Service and Patriotism As your Director on the Cape May County Board of Commissioners, I am filled with pride as we join the nation in celebrating America’s 250th birthday in 2026. Two hundred and fifty years ago, our founders declared independence on July 4, 1776, establishing the enduring ideals of liberty, freedom, and self-governance that define our great nation. This milestone invites us to reflect on the sacrifices of those who came before and the values that continue to unite us. Here in Cape May County, America’s founding story is woven into our own rich tapestry of patriotism, military service, and volunteerism. Our shores were the site of the Battle of Turtle Gut Inlet on June 29, 1776, the only Revolutionary War battle fought in our county. Local mariners and Continental Navy heroes, including Captain John Barry, fought bravely to protect vital supplies in one of the war’s earliest naval engagements. This local chapter of the Revolution reminds us that the fight for independence happened right here on our Jersey Shore. That same spirit of service has defined our county ever since. We are proud to host the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May, the oldest continuously operating Coast Guard installation, where generations of service members have trained to protect our nation. Veterans from every conflict have returned home to build our communities, and we honor them through the Gerald M. Thornton Veterans’ Cemetery, annual Memorial Day and Veterans’ Day ceremonies, and the dedicated work of our Veterans’ Bureau. Volunteerism is at the heart of our identity. Residents have selflessly contributed to building memorials like the Vietnam Veterans Wall in Wildwood and the Coast Guard Enlisted Memorial in Cape May, supported military families, and strengthened our neighborhoods through countless acts of service. This culture of giving back embodies the best of American patriotism—lived daily every Cape May County community. With this proud heritage as our foundation, the Board of County Commissioners was honored to support vibrant America 250 celebrations across Cape May County through the “CMC Land of the Free, Celebration 250” Grant Program. The Board awarded nearly $250,000 in matching grants to all sixteen of our municipalities. These 50/50 funds help empower local communities to enhance their Independence Day events with memorable, family-friendly patriotic programming while preserving each town’s unique traditions. The results were inspiring: drone shows over Ocean City and Sea Isle City, expanded festivals and fireworks in Middle Township and Upper Township, historical reenactments including the Battle of Turtle Gut Inlet in Wildwood Crest, parades, concerts, commemorative events, and more across every municipality from Avalon to Woodbine. County-wide banners, signage, and decorations further unite us in this historic commemoration. These grants create abundant opportunities for residents and visitors to come together and celebrate the values of liberty and independence that have defined our nation for two and a half centuries. As I have noted, these investments represent a meaningful commitment to our communities and to honoring America’s milestone. They foster unity and pride while highlighting everything that makes Cape May County special. I encourage everyone to participate this summer—attend a local event, visit our veterans’ sites, enjoy the festivities, or simply reflect on our shared freedoms. By doing so, we honor past generations of service members and volunteers while inspiring a future of service. Cape May County’s natural beauty, strong communities, and deep patriotic roots make it the perfect place to celebrate this historic birthday all summer long. I am proud to serve you and look forward to a summer filled with remembrance, joy, and renewed commitment to the American ideals we hold dear. God bless Cape May County and God bless the United States of America. Leonard C. Desiderio Director Cape May County Board of County Commissioners

Cape May County at The Great American State Fair

Cape May County is honored to represent all the patriotic citizens of New Jersey at the Great American State Fair in celebration of America’s 250th Birthday. We are proud to share the amazing history of our county, our contributions to America’s struggle for a more perfect union and to spread the good story of all that our county has to offer!

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Commissioners in the Community

Harborview Park, Cape May City Commissioner Patrick Rosenello and Open Space Board Chairman Peter Lomax joined the City of Cape May Mayor Zach Mullock and members of the City Council today for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the official reopening of Harborview Park. The approximately $1.75 million rehabilitation project, supported by a $1.4 million grant from the Cape May County Open Space Board, has transformed the scenic 1.5-acre passive park into a more accessible and enjoyable destination while preserving its tranquil character and stunning water views. Located near the entrance to Cape May at 1410 Harbor Lane (end of Texas Avenue), Harborview Park has long served as a beloved spot for residents and visitors to relax, watch boats and sunsets, read, picnic and connect with nature. The project addressed aging boardwalks, structures and amenities. The well-planned improvements were designed for durability in the coastal environment. The completed scope of work delivers a new boardwalk with plank pavers, a charming gazebo, expanded accessible seating, improved landscaping and trees, additional ADA parking, new sidewalks, lighting, and more while preserving the park’s relaxing, passive character and peaceful harbor views. The project was awarded to Fred Schiavone Construction, with construction beginning in February 2026. The boardwalk and gazebo were completed earlier in the process, followed by final sidewalk and site work leading to today’s ceremony. “Today’s ribbon cutting celebrates not just new amenities, but our shared commitment to preserving and enhancing Cape May’s unique coastal character,” Commissioner Rosenello said. “Harborview Park is a true community gem offering peaceful harbor views and a welcoming place for people to gather and unwind. Through our strong partnership with the City of Cape May, we have delivered meaningful upgrades that improve accessibility and ensure this scenic public space remains vibrant and attractive for years to come.” The Cape May County Open Space Program, established by voters in 1989 and funded by a dedicated property tax, provides critical support for land preservation and recreational development projects. This grant helped make significant park enhancements possible for the City of Cape May. Officials from both the county and city praised the collaboration and encouraged the public to enjoy the newly improved park this summer.

Stone Harbor's 97th Street Recreation Complex On June 6, Commissioner Bobby Barr joined Stone Harbor officials to celebrate the reopening of the 97th Street Recreation Complex, a $2.07 million transformation supported by $1.1 million from the County's Open Space program. The revitalized complex now offers a new inclusive playground built for all ages and abilities, a regulation basketball court, upgraded bocce courts, shaded seating, and improved accessibility throughout. As Commissioner Barr noted, the project reflects the County's commitment to safe, welcoming, and inclusive public spaces that strengthen communities and enhance quality of life across the Jersey Cape.

Avalon Bay Park Marina Reopens Cape May County Commissioners joined Avalon officials on June 5 to cut the ribbon on the beautifully rehabilitated Bay Park Marina. Backed by more than $1.1 million from the County's Open Space program, the bayside destination now features a new boat ramp, an accessible kayak launch, fresh piers and a dockmaster building, along with a gazebo, seating, and habitat-friendly touches like a turtle retention barrier. It is a great example of the County partnering with our shore towns to create resilient, welcoming waterfront spaces for residents and visitors alike.

Ocean City Fishing Pier Director Leonard C Desiderio and Commissioner Bobby Barr joined Cape County Bridge Commission Chairwoman Carol Brand and Assemblyman Antwan McClellan to officially cut the ribbon on the newly refurbished Ocean City Fishing Pier this morning. Local dignitaries, anxious anglers and many residents attended to view the Piers updated and improved amenities. Summers here! Cast your lines!

Update on the Ocean Drive Bridge Project

At the June 23rd County Commissioner’s Caucus, consulting firm Michael Baker International shared strong progress on the preliminary engineering for the Middle Thorofare Bridge replacement project. The scope of work will also include replacement of the Mill Creek and Upper Thorofare bridges and upgrading approximately 2.7 miles of Ocean Drive from Route 109 to the Upper Thorofare area. This critical project will deliver a modern high-level fixed-span bridge with 80-ft navigation clearance, wider lanes, shoulders, a shared-use path and raised roadway for better flood resilience. Construction is targeted for 2030–2036. Cape May County is committed to safer, more reliable infrastructure for our residents, visitors, and our fishing industry!

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Update on Cape May County’s new Justice Complex

Here’s a look at the progress being made on this important investment in public safety and the future of our community.

The project continues to take shape as work advances toward its anticipated completion in 2027

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Update on Gerald M. Thornton Veterans Cemetery

Cape May County continues to honor the brave men and women who served our nation with lasting dignity and respect.

At the Gerald M. Thornton Veterans’ Cemetery, Phase 2 of the Enhanced Beautification Project is now underway, building on the progress already completed in Phase 1. This next phase will bring new landscaping, walking paths, lighting, American flags, and meaningful memorial enhancements throughout the grounds.

These improvements reflect a sacred commitment to our veterans and their families, ensuring this final resting place remains a beautiful, peaceful, and patriotic place of honor for generations to come.

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Memorial Day 2026 Ceremony

Cape May County is committed to honoring those who served. This summer the Board funded improvements at the Cape May County Veterans' Cemetery, part of an ongoing effort to keep the grounds a beautiful and dignified place of remembrance.

The County also continues to support veterans through its transportation program and community events like Lower Township's Veterans Day Parade this November.

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Cape May County and the Fight for Independence

Learn about the interesting and important contributions of Cape May County during the war for American independence.

Brought to you by Rita M. Rothberg, County Clerk and County Historian.

Funded by Cape May County Board of Commissioners.

County Park & Zoo Named #5 Best Free Attraction by USA TODAY

The Cape May County Board of Commissioners proudly announces that the Cape May County Park & Zoo has been named the #5 Best Free Attraction in America for 2026 in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This national recognition celebrates the zoo’s exceptional combination of free admission and parking, diverse animal collection, educational value, and family-friendly experience. “We are incredibly proud that the Cape May County Park & Zoo has earned this well-deserved national accolade from USA Today,” said Cape May County Board of Commissioners Director Leonard C. Desiderio. “I strongly encourage all residents and visitors to our area this summer to come explore the wonders of the zoo, enjoy the beautiful park and create lasting family memories.” Located on 85 acres within the Cape May County Park (707 Route 9 North) the zoo is home to more than 550 animals representing approximately 250 species from around the world. Visitors can enjoy naturalistic exhibits featuring giraffes, zebras, leopards, lemurs, and many other species, along with playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and a full calendar of special events and programs. Admission and parking are completely free year-round (closed only on Christmas Day), with voluntary donations gratefully accepted to support animal care and facility improvements. The zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and serves as a premier tourism destination, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. “This honor is a testament to the dedication of our talented zoo staff and the outstanding, accessible experience we offer right here in Cape May County,” said Vice Director Andrew Bulakowski, Board liaison to the Park and Zoo. “With free admission and expanded parking, there has never been a better or more affordable time to visit. Year after year, the Cape May County Zoo has been recognized as one the best in the country and the most affordable for our families.” The Board of Commissioners extends its congratulations to the Park & Zoo team for this outstanding achievement and reaffirms its commitment to expanding and enhancing the Park & Zoo experience in the years ahead. For the latest hours, event schedules, animal highlights, and directions, visit the official Cape May County Park & Zoo page at capemaycountynj.gov/1679/Park-Zoo.

County Introduces Bond Ordinance to Support Cape May Seawall Project

The Cape May County Board of Commissioners introduced a Bond Ordinance providing a $4,300,000 contribution toward the Cape May City Seawall project. The ordinance authorizes $4,095,238 in bonds or notes to finance part of the costs. The action was taken at the June 9 meeting of the Board. This major county contribution supports the City of Cape May’s long-standing efforts to strengthen its coastal defenses along Beach Avenue. The project involves elevating and extending the existing seawall and promenade to address vulnerabilities exposed by major storms and ongoing coastal erosion. The Cape May seawall, originally constructed following the destructive Ash Wednesday Storm of 1962, consists of large rocks with concrete grouting and has served as a primary line of defense for the city’s oceanfront. The project gained significant momentum with federal support. In early 2026, Congressman Jeff Van Drew announced authorization of the Cape May City Seawall Flood Mitigation Project, backed by a major $24.3 million FEMA award. This builds on post-Superstorm Sandy assessments and addresses risks heightened by subsequent nor’easters and storms. Current plans include extending the seawall and promenade from east of Madison Avenue to Wilmington Avenue. Construction timelines anticipate advancing in late 2026, pending permitting and approvals. Cape May County has long been a leader in protecting its beaches, coastline, and communities from erosion and storm impacts. For decades, the County has partnered with local municipalities, the State of New Jersey, and federal agencies like the USACE and FEMA on beach replenishment, dune restoration, and infrastructure projects. These efforts are to safeguard lives, property, tourism-driven economies, commercial fishing, and vital ecosystems supporting migratory shorebirds. The Board of Commissioners noted Congressman Jeff Van Drew’s steadfast advocacy on coastal issues. Van Drew’s Coastal Trust Fund Act aims to provide dedicated, stable federal resources for shore protection, recognizing that beach replenishment and resiliency projects are essential and must be ongoing for beach communities like those in Cape May County. “Cape May County is proud to partner with Cape May City on this vital seawall project, which will protect homes, businesses, and our shared coastline for generations to come,” said Director Leonard C. Desiderio. “Our County remains well-focused on our longstanding efforts to support coastal resiliency by working hand-in-hand with local, state, and federal partners. We are especially grateful to Congressman Jeff Van Drew for his leadership in helping secure the release of critical FEMA funding that made this project possible. This investment underscores our commitment to safeguarding the beautiful beaches that define our communities and tourism-driven economy while ensuring our shoreline remains resilient for future generations.” Recent federal investments and support include nearly $99 million for beach replenishment projects across Cape May County and demonstrate a strong federal-state-local partnership that enhances coastal resilience against sea-level changes and extreme weather.

Cape May County Welcomes $47.7M Route 50 Bridge Replacement Project

Cape May County is pleased to share that the New Jersey Department of Transportation has awarded a $47.7 million contract to replace the Route 50 Bridge over Cedar Swamp Creek in Upper Township. Gov. Mikie Sherrill made the announcement with NJDOT Commissioner Priya Jain, NJDOT Assistant Commissioner Parth Oza, Cape May County Commissioner Director Leonard C. Desiderio, and State Senator Michael Testa. This important project marks NJDOT’s first-ever “Design-Build” effort, which combines design and construction into a single contract to help speed up delivery, reduce delays, and improve efficiency. The 65-year-old bridge plays a vital role in connecting communities and supporting travel in and out of Cape May County, especially during the busy summer season. The replacement will include wider shoulders, a future sidewalk, and updated roadway and drainage improvements while minimizing traffic impacts during construction. Construction is expected to begin in Fall 2026 and be completed by the end of 2028.

Board of Commissioners Advances Airport Housing Initiative to Support Coast Guard Expansion, National Security, and Airport Sustainability

Board of Commissioners Advances Airport Housing Initiative to Support Coast Guard Expansion, National Security, and Airport Sustainability Director Leonard C. Desiderio and the Cape May County Board of Commissioners announced that the County has requested the Delaware River & Bay Authority, as airport sponsor, to submit a formal application of a Change of Land Request to the Federal Aviation Administration, seeking approval to develop rental housing on 18 acres (1.8%) of the nearly 1,000-acre Cape May County Airport property. This targeted, mission-critical project would create permanently leased townhomes reserved exclusively for U.S. Coast Guard personnel; other military members supporting airport operations; airport maintenance; police, fire, and EMS personnel; and other essential personnel needed for national security, disaster response, and emergency operations. “Cape May County is proud to be the home of Coast Guard’s training center,” said Director Desiderio. “This is an innovative plan the County has been actively developing and working towards for the better part of a year in anticipation of the Coast Guard’s expanding mission and growing needs for proximate workforce housing.” Director Desiderio emphasized that this initiative promotes national security priorities and represents a rare opportunity to align local initiatives with historic federal investments in TRACEN Cape May. TRACEN Cape May is the sole enlisted accession point for the Coast Guard and the birthplace of the enlisted corps. The Trump Administration’s Force Design 2028 plan calls for a substantial increase in enlisted USCG members by 2028. With the recent announcement by Congressman Jeff Van Drew of a $400 million design-build contract for new barracks and training facilities (the largest federal investment in South Jersey history) the Board of Commissioners is committed to acting now to provide housing that adequately supports this historic expansion and accommodates increasing national security infrastructure requirements. The need is urgent - Cape May was designated a Critical Housing Area by the Coast Guard in June 2025 precisely because of the severe shortage of affordable, proximate housing. The Coast Guard, along with the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines, have long relied on the Cape May County Airport to support military operations. Without on-site workforce housing, military personnel and essential workers face unsustainable commutes that impair rapid response during national security incidents, natural disasters, civil unrest, or other crises. “This is a positive, forward-looking solution that benefits all the federal, state and local entities invested in our national security,” Director Desiderio said. “This initiative creates affordable housing opportunities for enlisted Coast Guard, our military partners, first responders (including police, fire, medical and EMS personnel) and airport operations.” The County is working to secure unified support for this critical mission from Congressman Jeff Van Drew, Senator Michael Testa, Assemblymen Antwan McClellan and Erik Simonsen, and the mayors of all sixteen county municipalities. The Board of Commissioners respectfully urges the Delaware River and Bay Authority to join the County in advancing this compelling request to the FAA and working to secure approval. Cape May County stands ready to support the Coast Guard’s critical and expanding mission through this initiative and concurrently discuss the prospects of a long-term relationship with the DRBA.

Cape May County Joins American Coalition as First County Member to Champion Federal Funding for America's Beaches

Historic Shore Communities Unite Nationwide to Protect Beaches and Tourism Economies The American Coastal Coalition is pleased to welcome Cape May County, New Jersey, as its newest member – the first county to join the nationwide coalition fighting to protect America’s beaches. The Coalition advocates for sustained federal funding for beach nourishment, coastal restoration, and resilient infrastructure that keeps communities safe and economies thriving. Cape May County is home to many of the nation’s most historic seasonal resort communities, including Ocean City, Cape May, and the Wildwoods. The County’s greatest attraction is its magnificent beaches, which support 42,000 jobs and drove a record $8.44 billion in visitor spending in 2025. “Cape May County’s beaches are more than just a destination—they are the foundation of our economy, our quality of life, and our identity as a coastal community,” said Commissioner Director Leonard C. Desiderio. “By joining the American Coastal Coalition, we are strengthening our voice in Washington and advocating for the federal investment necessary to preserve our shoreline, protect our communities, and sustain the tourism industry that supports thousands of local jobs.” “Cape May County’s iconic shoreline is a national treasure,” said Dan Ginolfi, Executive Director of the American Coastal Coalition. “As the first county to join our coalition, they bring powerful local leadership and a shared commitment to fighting for the federal beach nourishment funding that coastal economies depend on. Together, our position is stronger in Washington, D.C.” “As a resident and elected official from the City of North Wildwood, I understand that beach renourishment is not simply an environmental issue – it is an economic and public safety imperative,” said Commissioner Patrick T. Rosenello. “Our beaches provide critical storm protection for homes, businesses, and infrastructure while supporting billions of dollars in economic activity. We are proud to stand alongside coastal communities across the nation in advocating for reliable federal funding that helps ensure our shoreline remains strong, resilient, and protected for future generations.” The American Coastal Coalition works directly with Members of Congress and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to restore and maintain beaches that drive billions in economic activity while protecting homes, businesses, and public infrastructure from erosion, storms, and sea-level rise. The ACC is leading a seasonal #YEStoBeaches campaign to demonstrate the importance of federal funding for America’s beaches and encourages all coastal communities, counties and businesses that rely on beaches to join. More information below. About the American Coastal Coalition The American Coastal Coalition is a unified voice for America’s coastal communities in Washington, D.C. The Coalition advocates for robust federal funding for beach nourishment, coastal restoration, and resilient infrastructure to help communities adapt to sea-level rise, flooding, and climate change. For more information or to learn how to get involved in the #YEStoBeaches campaign, please visit americancoastalcoalition.org.

Mayors' roundtable Tackles Affordable Housing, County Development and Regional Priorities

On Friday, May 15, 2026, Commissioner Director Leonard C. Desiderio convened mayors and municipal administrators from all 16 municipalities to discuss affordable housing, County development, regional priorities, and the arbitrary and capricious NJPACT REAL Rules. Additional attendees included County Commissioner Patrick T. Rosenello, Kamani Scott, Senior Aide for Intergovernmental Affairs in the Governor's Office, and Legislative District 1 representatives: Senator Testa, Assemblyman Erik Simonsen, and Assemblyman Antwan McClellan. Commissioner Director Leonard C. Desiderio emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and open dialogue between the County and its municipalities, and thanked State Reps for attendance and participation. “The Mayor’s Roundtable provides an invaluable opportunity to bring our municipal leaders together to discuss the issues, initiatives, and priorities that directly impact our communities,” said Commissioner Director Leonard C. Desiderio. “Through partnership and the sharing of ideas, we can continue building a stronger Cape May County that supports our residents, businesses, and visitors alike. We were also grateful to have State representatives from LD1 and the Governor’s Office to hear firsthand the concerns and priorities of our local communities, strengthening the connection between state and local government as we work toward common goals.”

Community Awareness

This May, Cape May County joined communities nationwide in recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month. The Board's proclamation affirmed that mental health is essential to everyone's overall wellbeing and underscores the County's commitment, alongside local NAMI affiliates, health care providers, and schools, to reducing stigma, encouraging treatment, and supporting those living with mental health conditions. Recognizing that one in five adults and children experience a mental health condition each year, the County continues to stand with residents and families in support of mental wellness, including through the dedicated volunteers who serve on its Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Board.