Views from the Shore By Brian Cahill
One of the things that makes Somers Point special is how much people care about the community. As Marketing Director for Shore Medical Center, an independent community hospital, I understand the importance of being involved in the community we serve. That’s why I was happy to join the Somers Point Economic Development Advisory Commission (EDAC) this past June, working alongside a dedicated group of volunteers committed to supporting local businesses and helping our city thrive.
For those unfamiliar with EDAC, it’s a 12-member volunteer board that advises City Council on economic development, supports existing businesses and helps attract new ones. I recently spoke with EDAC Chair Janice Johnston, who was appointed in March, about the commission’s work and priorities. “Our purpose is to help market the city’s strengths, support the businesses already here and encourage new businesses to consider Somers Point,” Janice explained. “We’re strictly an advisory board, but we can make recommendations to City Council that help move the city forward.”
And there’s certainly plenty to promote. Somers Point has a strong year-round population, great restaurants, entertainment, shopping and a visitor season that continues to extend beyond the summer months. Janice believes these qualities make Somers Point an attractive location for businesses. Community events and attractions also play an important role, bringing people into town to enjoy restaurants, art galleries, performances at the Gateway Playhouse and everything else the city offers.
Of course, turning ideas into action isn’t always easy. As I’ve learned firsthand, working within municipal government involves procedures and requirements that can take time. “When you have volunteers who are giving their time and bringing great ideas to the table, they naturally want to see results,” Janice said. “Sometimes the process takes longer than we’d like, but we have a dedicated group that’s committed to making things happen.”
Current EDAC priorities include updating the city’s economic development website, expanding business listings, developing a community calendar and creating a newsletter to better promote local businesses. The commission is also exploring ways to attract birdwatching enthusiasts to Somers Point. Looking ahead to 2027, Janice hopes to establish a consistent marketing program that showcases Somers Point as a great place to live, visit and do business.
To stay connected with what’s happening in Somers Point, I encourage everyone to visit VisitSomersPoint.com to sign up for the newsletter and keep up with local events through the community calendar. I’ve enjoyed my first several months on EDAC and appreciate the time and effort its members put into supporting our city. Somers Point has a lot going for it, and I’m glad to be part of a group working to build on those strengths.
Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He also volunteers on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association, the Somers Point Economic Advisory Commission, and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.
