Voters to Shape Local Councils in Sea Isle, Avalon

Cape May County, N.J. — On May 13, Sea Isle City and Avalon residents will cast ballots in municipal elections, joining just 41 New Jersey towns that hold spring votes despite a state law permitting a switch to November. These nonpartisan races will determine the makeup of local councils, with Sea Isle City hosting a lively contest and Avalon expecting a straightforward vote. In Sea Isle City, five candidates are vying for three City Council seats, the first competitive election in over a year. Two incumbents and a former city official face two newcomers campaigning for fresh perspectives. The race is intensified by a retiring council member’s open seat.
Past spring elections in Sea Isle have seen sparse participation—only 14% of eligible voters turned out in 2021, compared to 63% in the November gubernatorial election that year. In Avalon, three incumbent council members are running unopposed for reelection to the Borough Council. Their backgrounds include education, planning, and legal expertise, with two serving since 2021 and one appointed in 2023. Avalon’s 2023 spring election drew 28% voter turnout, lagging behind the 40% seen in November’s general election. The contrast in voter engagement between spring and fall underscores the stakes for these communities. Residents are encouraged to vote and influence the direction of their local governments.