Ocean City Considers Cost Cut, Multi-Year Option for Falconry Gull Control

OCEAN CITY, NJ - Ocean City is preparing to trim nearly $40,000 from a recently approved contract aimed at keeping seagulls off its beaches and Boardwalk this summer. The City Council is scheduled to vote Thursday on a change order that would reduce the $388,000 agreement with East Coast Falcons by shortening the service period by 13 days. The falconry-based abatement program, now entering its sixth year, uses trained birds of prey to deter nuisance gulls in public areas. The new contract, which will run from May 2 to Sept. 14, marks the first time the city sought competitive bids for the work. Two firms submitted proposals, but only East Coast Falcons met the city’s criteria and budget. A second bidder, Foster Falconry, proposed a plan exceeding $1 million. The city’s purchasing department emphasized the complexity of selecting a provider for such a specialized service. Experience working in high-traffic coastal areas was weighted heavily in the evaluation process. Along with approving the cost reduction, council members will also consider a longer-term option. The new resolution allows for the possibility of renewing the agreement annually for up to five years—the maximum allowed under local rules. The council meeting is set for 6 p.m. Thursday on the third floor of City Hall, 861 Asbury Ave.