The OCNJ Local

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The OCNJ Local episodes

March 08 The OCNJ Local: Pete Madden for Mayor
In this episode, Dom and Drew sit down for an in-depth conversation with Pete Madden, current City Councilman and candidate for Mayor of Ocean City, New Jersey.
Councilman Madden joins the show to pull back the curtain on his decision to run. We dive into the "why now" behind his campaign and what it takes to lead a unique coastal community that balances a tight-knit year-round population with a massive seasonal influx.
In this episode, we discuss:
- What sparked Pete’s decision to move from the City Council to the Mayoral race in 2026?
- Pete’s core views on leadership and his philosophy on maintaining the "America's Greatest Family Resort" legacy while tackling modern infrastructure and fiscal challenges.
- Why Pete believes his experience and deep local roots make him the right person for the job at this specific moment in time.
Whether you’re a lifelong local, a business owner, or a frequent visitor, this conversation offers a front-row seat to this year's highly contested mayoral race.

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23 min
February 09 The OCNJ Local, EP. 70: Hot Potato
Grab a coffee and join Dom and Drew for a deep dive into the recent Boardwalk Subcommittee presentation held at the Ocean City Free Public Library. This wasn’t just another town hall; it was a data-heavy look at the pulse of Ocean City's most iconic landmark.
In this episode, we break down the hard numbers from the subcommittee's report and what they signal for the boards' future. Finally, Dom floats a "wild card" proposal for the north end of the boardwalk. It’s a concept designed to spark a conversation about year-round engagement and the preservation of the town's soul as the world changes beyond the bridges.
Whether you’re a local business owner or a weekend regular, this is one you’ll want to hear.

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55 min
January 30 The OCNJ Local: EP, 68. A Cold Start to 2026
It’s a cold start to 2026 in "America’s Greatest Family Resort," and the local scene is heating up. This week, Dom and Drew dive into the headlines shaping Ocean City’s winter—from a school district shakeup to the future of our most iconic landmark.
First, we tackle the news that Superintendent Dr. Christian Angelillo has officially announced his retirement. After a rotating door of leadership in recent years, what does this mean for our schools, and can the board find a permanent "captain" to keep the ship steady?
Then, we look ahead to Tuesday, May 12—Municipal Election Day. With filing deadlines approaching, we discuss the early buzz surrounding the non-partisan races and what’s at stake for the city’s future.
We also preview the highly anticipated Boardwalk Subcommittee open meeting on Saturday, February 7th. Councilman Dave Winslow and the team are heading to the library to share their "data-driven" findings on commercial zoning.
Finally, a huge shout-out to the OCDPW and our downtown merchants. Following the recent snowstorm, the recovery was fast and efficient. We talk about the impressive coordination that kept Asbury Avenue open for business.

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27 min
January 30 The OCNJ Local: EP, 68. 4 to 4
In this high-stakes episode, Dom and Drew dive deep into the recent Ocean City Planning Board decision that has everyone talking. The board’s 4-4 deadlock vote officially rejected the application to designate the property at 600 Boardwalk as "in need of rehabilitation." A move that has sent shockwaves through the local community.
They break down the 4-4 tie and explain why a deadlock in this context results in a rejection, what the board members’ primary concerns were, and legal and financial limbo once again surrounds the site.
This isn't just about one piece of land; it's about the current and future state of Ocean City.

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47 min
January 07 The OCNJ Local. EP: 67, In The Zone
Join the Local Guys, Dom and Drew, as they discuss the upcoming Planning Board meeting to determine whether the former Wonderland property at 600 Boardwalk is an area "in need of rehabilitation."
In the episode, they examine the criteria a property must meet to be designated as an area in need of rehabilitation and whether the property currently meets any of those criteria.
You don't want to miss this episode.

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22 min
December 31, 2025 The OCNJ Local, EP. 66: Goodbye 2025
Join Dom and Drew as they celebrate the year that was 2025 in America's Greatest Family Resort.
From milestone anniversaries for many favorite local businesses to the success of OCHS high school teams, Drew and Dom recap the events that made 2025 one to remember here in Ocean City, New Jersey.

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42 min
December 05, 2025 The OCNJ Local, EP. 65: A Baby Step Forward
The Votes are in!
Join Dom and Drew as they discuss what last night's city council vote means for the future of the former Wonderland property at 600 Boardwalk.
This episode offers a detailed explanation of what the council voted on last night, the process of declaring a property in need of rehabilitation, and what a declaration of rehabilitation means for the city and the taxpayer. Drew and Dom also share their visions for the property's future.
This episode is a must-watch for everyone who wants what's best for the boardwalk and Ocean City.

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37 min
December 02, 2025 The OCNJ Local EP 64 Back on the Table
🎙️ The 600 Boardwalk Controversy: Why a Revote?
Join Dom and Drew as they tackle the biggest local issue: the pending City Council vote on the 600 Boardwalk property.
This episode provides a thorough breakdown of the proposed project's timeline and details all developments since the Council’s August decision not to advance it to the Planning Board.
The hosts sit down with special guest Councilman Jody Levchuk, who recently made headlines by requesting a revote after casting a "no" vote months earlier. Councilman Levchuk provides an in-depth look at his change of heart and unique perspective, drawing on his lifelong experience owning and operating businesses on the Ocean City Boardwalk.
If you love Ocean City, you don't want to miss this episode.

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1 hr 1 min
November 06, 2025 The OCNJ Local, EP. 63: How the Sausage is Made
Join local guys, Dom and Drew, as they dive into the major Capital Improvement Projects shaping the future of Ocean City! 🏗️
Get the inside scoop on all the important developments happening across the island, including the massive undertaking of rebuilding the boardwalk decking and substructure from 5th Street down to St. Charles Place. They'll also provide an update on the new police substation strategically located at 8th and the boardwalk, discuss the beautification efforts at the lot between 16th and 17th on Haven Ave (featuring new sidewalk, curbs, and sod), and share the latest news on the construction of the new terminal at the Ocean City Airport.
Whether you’re a year-round resident or a summer regular, tune in to hear how these projects are improving our beautiful city!

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30 min
September 30, 2025 The OCNJ Local, EP. 61: Creative Kids Market Fall Block Party Addition
In this episode, Dom and Drew highlight the amazing talent and generous sponsors that are a part of the second Creative Kids Market. The Creative Kids Market is a farmer's market that features all kid vendors. The market will take place during Ocean City's Block Party Weekend on Saturday, October 11th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.

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24 min