WINTER 2026

As we begin a new year in Oceanport, I want to take a moment to reflect on who we are as a community, what we have accomplished together, and where we are headed. Our annual reorganization meeting marks more than a procedural beginning—it offers an opportunity to pause, recognize one another, and recommit ourselves to the values that make Oceanport such a special place to call home.

Oceanport has always been defined by its people. Ours is a community where neighbors look out for one another, where service is valued, and where pride in our Borough runs deep. Over the past year, that spirit has been evident in countless ways, and it continues to remind me how fortunate I am to serve as your Mayor.

Before looking forward, it is important to acknowledge that we also experienced loss this past year. Members of our Oceanport family passed away in 2025, and their absence is felt by those who loved them and by our community as a whole. We honor their memory and the contributions they made to the fabric of our town, and we keep their families in our thoughts.

One of the greatest strengths of Oceanport is the dedication of those who serve and protect us each day. Our Police Department works tirelessly—often behind the scenes—to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. Their professionalism, judgment, and commitment do not go unnoticed, and our Borough is safer because of the work they do.

I would also like to congratulate several members of our Police Department on their promotions and continued service. Congratulations to Patrolman Christian J. Archinaco and Patrolman Timothy Regan on their appointments, and to Sergeant William Resnyk and Captain Gregory Lauretta on their well-earned leadership roles. These advancements reflect not only individual achievement, but the strength and professionalism of our department as a whole. We thank each of you for your service to Oceanport.

Equally deserving of our gratitude are our volunteer emergency responders. Our Volunteer First Aid Squad, Fire Department, and Office of Emergency Management give their time, expertise, and energy selflessly, often at great personal sacrifice. These men and women leave their homes and families at all hours to respond when our neighbors need help the most. Their service represents the very best of Oceanport’s tradition of volunteerism.

I would like to recognize and thank the 2026 Officers of the Oceanport First Aid Squad for stepping forward to lead. Thank you to Sergeant Margaret Lippolis, Second Lieutenant Doris Agaman, First Lieutenant Fred Filippone, and Captain Jonathan Ryan. Your leadership ensures that our residents receive compassionate, professional emergency medical care when it matters most.

I would also like to extend my appreciation to the 2026 Officers of the Oceanport Fire Department. Congratulations and thank you to Second Assistant Chief Anthony Fragale, First Assistant Chief Kenneth Carroll, and Chief Francis Lippolis. Your leadership, training, and dedication are critical to the safety of our community.

I would be remiss if I did not also recognize outgoing Fire Chief James Gallo Jr. for his extraordinary service to the Borough of Oceanport. Chief Gallo represents a proud tradition of service—he is a fourth-generation firefighter and third-generation Fire Chief, carrying forward a legacy that spans generations. Beyond his leadership role, he is a loving husband and devoted father of two young children, yet he has consistently volunteered his time and energy to protect our residents.

Chief Gallo’s dedication was evident from the very beginning of his service. Just 18 days into his tenure as Chief, he responded to his first call—a devastating fire that destroyed an Oceanport family’s home. That moment set the tone for his leadership, defined by selflessness, courage, and an unwavering sense of duty. On behalf of the Governing Body and the residents of Oceanport, I extend our deepest gratitude for his service and the example he has set for future generations.

I am also grateful for the strong working relationships within our local government. The members of the Governing Body, our Borough employees, and our professional staff work collaboratively and respectfully to serve the public. Public service is not always easy, but the commitment to do what is right for Oceanport remains constant. That teamwork and mutual respect are essential to good governance.

Behind the scenes, our Borough staff keep Oceanport running each day. Their professionalism, institutional knowledge, and dedication ensure that services are delivered efficiently and effectively. From administration to public works, their efforts make a real difference in the quality of life in our town.

We are also fortunate to benefit from strong partnerships beyond our municipal borders. Our collaboration with neighboring towns, our Boards of Education, and Monmouth County reflects our commitment to shared services and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. These partnerships demonstrate what can be achieved when municipalities work together with a shared purpose.

Looking back on the past year, there is much to be proud of. One major milestone was the closure of the Netflix agreement at the former Fort Monmouth property. This carefully negotiated project includes substantial community benefit, long-term stability, and a vision that will serve as a catalyst for job creation, economic vitality, and community revitalization. It strengthens Oceanport’s regional identity and contributes to a more vibrant place to live and work.

We also made progress on important labor agreements, affordable housing obligations, and numerous committee initiatives and community events. From updates at the Monmouth Park development to the acquisition of 40 acres of open space, these achievements were the result of teamwork, thoughtful planning, and a shared belief in doing what is best for our residents.

Infrastructure investments continued throughout the year, including sewer projects, utility upgrades, roadway paving, sidewalk connections, and long-term planning to support responsible growth. These improvements ensure that Oceanport remains safe, accessible, and prepared for the future.

At the heart of everything we do are our volunteers. Residents who serve on boards, commissions, committees, and community organizations truly are the backbone of this borough. Their willingness to give time and talent—often without recognition—makes Oceanport stronger and more connected.

This spirit of volunteerism was exemplified by the recipients of the Mayor’s 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award, Joe and Paula Lombardo. For more than five decades, they have embodied what it means to serve with humility, dedication, and love for Oceanport. Their lifelong commitment reminds us of the powerful impact one family can have on an entire community.

As we move into this new year, I encourage residents to consider becoming involved—whether through volunteering, attending meetings, supporting community events, or simply lending a helping hand to a neighbor. The strength of our Borough depends on continued engagement and shared responsibility.

Most importantly, we will continue to listen—to our residents, volunteers, staff, and one another—because the best decisions are made together, with respect and understanding.

In closing, I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who gives their time, energy, and heart to Oceanport. Serving this community is an honor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated individuals. I look forward to another year of collaboration, progress, and community as we continue moving Oceanport forward—together ensuring Oceanport remains A Great Place to Live.

Thomas J. Tvrdik

Mayor, Borough of Oceanport