Councilman Robert Acerra

06/05/2026

This morning's Annual New Jersey Law Enforcement Torch Run thru the Township of Ocean to benefit Special Olympics New Jersey was another tremendous success! Thank you to the Township of Ocean Police Department members who set up and participated. A shout out to the local parents and kids who ran or rode their bikes. Always look forward to seeing and high-fiving the students (and teachers) at Wanamassa School!

05/29/2026

Decorate your bike, your scooter, wagon or stroller and join us for a fun-filled parade through Joe Palaia Park as we celebrate our 250th birthday! Please contact Human Services at 732 531 2600 to Pre register. Make it a GREAT DAY!

05/26/2026

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we pause as a nation to honor and remember the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our freedoms. Their courage, selflessness, and dedication to this country will never be forgotten.

Here in the Township of Ocean we proudly recognize the many residents and families who have answered the call to serve our nation throughout history including my Dad and his brothers who were fortunate to make it home. Today, we especially remember those heroes from our community who gave their lives in service to the United States of America.

Their sacrifice is a lasting reminder that freedom is never free and while ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL.

On behalf of the Township of Ocean community, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who have served and to the Gold Star families who carry the legacy of their loved ones every day.

May we honor their memory not only today, but always.

God Bless our fallen heroes, our veterans, and the United States of America.

05/24/2026

05/15/2026

Thank you to The Coaster and reporter Bill Clark for continuing to cover the Township of Ocean Council meetings and for highlighting the debate surrounding the ordinance introduced by the Mayor to move Ocean’s municipal elections from May to November.

This is an extremely important issue that deserves thoughtful discussion — and more importantly, direct input from the residents of Ocean Township.

For more than 60 years, since 1963, Ocean has proudly held nonpartisan municipal elections in May, separate from the increasingly partisan atmosphere that surrounds November elections. Before making a change with long-term consequences for our community, I believe residents deserve the opportunity to decide this issue themselves through a township-wide referendum.

I also believe the financial argument being presented simply does not justify rushing this decision. Ocean’s last municipal election in 2023 cost approximately $67,000 and only occurs once every four years. Even using the Mayor’s higher estimate of $80,000, the difference amounts to roughly $13,000 over four years — about $3,250 per year. In my opinion, that is a very small price to preserve Ocean’s independent, nonpartisan local elections. And it is important to remember that elections still carry costs in November, meaning the expense does not disappear entirely.

Residents should also understand another significant impact of this proposal: moving the election would extend the terms of the current Mayor and Council members by six months, from July to January. Since the residents elected the five members of the Council, I believe the residents should also have a voice in determining whether those terms are extended.

While the Mayor points out there will not be a Presidential or Congressional race in November 2027, it is equally important to note there WILL be highly partisan State Senate and Assembly races on the ballot that year. That raises legitimate questions about whether this proposal is truly about voter turnout — or about political advantage.

At the end of the day, this decision belongs to the people of Ocean Township.

I would truly appreciate hearing your thoughts and opinions on this issue. Please feel free to reach out to me directly at 732-403-4112 or [email protected].

As always, Make it a GREAT DAY!

05/11/2026

During National Police Week, we pause to honor and remember the brave law enforcement officers who have served our communities with courage, integrity, and selflessness. We especially remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, giving their lives to protect others. Their service and dedication will never be forgotten.

We also extend our sincere gratitude to the members of the Township of Ocean Police Department for their unwavering commitment to keeping our residents safe each and every day. Your professionalism, sacrifice, and dedication to the Township of Ocean are deeply appreciated by the entire community.

Thank you to all who wear the badge and serve with honor.

05/06/2026

NATIONAL NURSES DAY - Let's recognize all the nurses today (and every day) especially those who live or work in the Township of Ocean for all of their contributions and commitments and acknowledge the vital role they play in our lives. Celebrate their dedication to their patients and their profession. Give nurses you know a shout out and thank them for their hard work! Make it a GREAT DAY!