Buyers of Cape May Memorial Benches Asked to Pay Again for Replacements

Issue #461

September 20, 2025

In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

🛋️ Buyers of Cape May Memorial Benches Asked to Pay Again for Replacements

🍁 Autumn Traditions Return: Rea’s Farm Hosts Harvest Fair and Classic Car Show 

📜 City Council Targets Neglect of Historic Homes in Cape May

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👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 September 20

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 Buyers of Cape May Memorial Benches Asked to Pay Again for Replacements

Cape May is preparing to replace around 450 memorial benches along its iconic beachfront promenade, and those who originally paid for them may be asked to contribute again—this time covering half the cost of a new bench. The city has determined that the benches, most of which were installed between 2009 and 2012, have become unsafe due to wear and age. Officials say replacing them all at once is more practical than selectively repairing individual benches. City Manager Paul Dietrich says that the city will split the cost of the new benches with original donors, asking them to contribute $1,250 toward the replacement. The city states that under the new structure, benches will remain for at least 10 years, giving future donors a clearer understanding of their commitment and expectations. Individuals have until October 31 to decide whether they want to participate in the new program.

Autumn Traditions Return: Rea’s Farm Hosts Harvest Fair and Classic Car Show

 Rea’s Farm in West Cape May is hosting the Harvest Fair on September 20. The Harvest Fair, taking place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., promises a full day of fun for all ages. Guests can challenge themselves in the expansive seven-acre corn maze, take a leisurely hayride through the fields and past the farm’s iconic spots — including a pond, pumpkin patch, and historic beanery — and perhaps even catch a glimpse of local wildlife like coyotes, ospreys, and eagles. Food and drink are at the heart of the celebration. Obscura Brewing will serve their seasonal craft beers from their mobile tap truck, while Nauti Spirits and Cape May Winery will offer tastings and bottles for sale. Farm-fresh produce will be available in the Big Red Barn, and a lineup of food vendors will be stationed throughout the property. Live music will set the tone for the day, with performances from Wesley Ochos and Dan Barry filling the fall air with seasonal sound.

City Council Targets Neglect of Historic Homes in Cape May

Cape May is moving forward with a new ordinance aimed at preventing "demolition by neglect" of historic properties. The measure, introduced by City Council, targets the exterior deterioration of key historic structures and provides enforcement tools to ensure their upkeep. A public hearing and final vote on the ordinance are scheduled for 5 p.m. on October 7 at City Hall on Washington Street. The legislation is seen as a preventive tool, ensuring that property owners don't allow key structures to fall into such disrepair that demolition becomes the only option. Officials say it’s not about punishment, but about promoting compliance and preserving the city’s architectural legacy. Officials say the ordinance is a preventative step focused on compliance rather than penalties, with an appeal process built in for property owners.

Which Cape May beach is named after a famous philanthropist and offers a more secluded spot compared to other local beaches?

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Answer to the September 19th Trivia Question

Which Cape May location is famous for its World War II-era watchtower, known as Fire Control Tower No. 23, used to spot enemy ships?

A) The Cove
B) Sunset Beach
C) Higbee Beach
D) Cape May Point State Park

Answer: B) Sunset Beach.

Fire Control Tower No. 23, located at Sunset Beach, was part of the coastal defense system during World War II. It was used to help coordinate artillery fire and spot enemy ships off the coast of Cape May. Today, it serves as a museum and memorial.​

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