The Somers Point City Council on the evening recognized the Somers Point Beach Concert Series for being named best outdoor concert series in the nation by USA Today and discussed operational and contract issues raised by the city solicitor that must be fixed before additional events are finalized.

The recognition was led by Mayor Tapp, who said the series “was awarded the best outdoor, concert series in America for, 2025 according to USA Today.” The council also discussed logistics for additional dates and safety measures for vendors and attendees.

City Solicitor Smith told the council that several event contracts submitted to the city lack required language — specifically the clause from section 6(g) that clarifies “the city of Somers Point is not a party to the contract” and that the city has “no financial obligation” to vendors. Smith said that in some contracts the purchaser was incorrectly listed as the city and that those contracts “have to be corrected.”

Council members directed staff to obtain corrected contracts and to follow up with the event organizer. Solicitor Smith said he received insurance certificates, a surety bond and that only three contracts were fully executed by both sides; the problematic language must be corrected before the city signs off.

Council members also discussed public-safety arrangements for shows. Council member McGuigan asked whether the police department could support a proposed additional concert date of Sept. 12; McGuigan said he would “reach out to the chief tomorrow.” Mayor Tapp and others discussed blocking part of the parking lot so vendors can operate in a separated space; one council member described the current vendor setup as a public-safety concern because “cars are backing up” with children in line.

Public commenters singled out long-time volunteers Carmen and Nancy for praise; a resident urged the city to formally invite earlier organizers Nick Regine and others to recognition events. Council members asked staff to ensure contract and insurance details are available to the public when the agenda is posted.

The council also noted that event contracts obligate the city to maintain certain items after a set period; council discussion of New Jersey Transit bus-station solar lights (see separate article) referenced similar maintenance concerns that can carry multi-year obligations.

The council did not take final formal action on changing the concert schedule at the meeting but approved staff follow-up: corrected contracts, confirmation of insurance and surety bond language, and outreach to the police chief about staffing for the additional September date. Council members asked that corrected contract language be circulated to the clerk and council before final approval.

Council members said they expect to bring a resolution or amended agreement back to the council once contracts are corrected and police coverage is confirmed.