Morey Challenges Ethics Ruling on Cape May Airport Decision

Cape May County, NJ — Commissioner Will Morey is at odds with a legal opinion stating that he has a conflict of interest over a vote on the future of Cape May Airport. The opinion, issued by county special counsel Fredric Shenkman on July 7, claims that Morey’s financial interest in the airport’s industrial park should disqualify him from participating in related decisions. Shenkman argues that Morey stands to benefit financially, as his lease agreement with the airport involves a property that is tied to the airport’s operations. However, Morey’s attorney, Steven Fram, has strongly rejected this claim, insisting that the lease is a "minor" concern and does not impair Morey’s ability to make an unbiased decision. Fram has invited anyone who disagrees with the opinion to file a complaint with the state’s Local Finance Board for further review. The dispute has come at a crucial time, as the board is preparing to vote on the awarding of a 10-year contract to manage the airport, following the expiration of the Delaware River and Bay Authority’s lease in 2028. Morey has been opposed to switching operators, arguing that more time is needed to weigh options and fully engage the public, especially with the large financial implications tied to the $32 million investment the DRBA has made in airport infrastructure.