Ocean City Sets Special Election Date to Fill Two Council Seats

Ocean City, MD - Ocean City residents will head to the polls on Friday, May 8, 2026, as the Town of Ocean City has rescheduled its upcoming municipal special election. The election will determine who fills two open seats on the Ocean City Council.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, Dockside Exhibit Hall. It's a single polling location, so all voters should plan accordingly.

Five candidates are on the ballot for the two available council seats (Listed in alphabetical order). They are John Franklin Adkins, Peter S. Buas, Tony DeSanctis, Jeff Heiser, and William (Bill) Murphy. 

Can't Make It to the Polls? You Have Options.

Residents who prefer to vote by absentee, or mail-in, ballot must submit an application no later than 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026. That's the day before the election, so don't wait until the last minute.

Applications can be completed and submitted in person at City Hall. They can also be mailed to the Board of Supervisors of Elections of Ocean City, c/o Office of the City Clerk, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

To download an absentee ballot application or find updated election information, visit www.oceancitymd.gov.

Getting to the Polls Just Got Easier

The Town of Ocean City will offer free bus service to all riders on Special Election Day. The no-fare policy will be in effect from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. for both regular bus routes and ADA service.

The Coastal Highway "Beach Bus" will run every 30 minutes throughout the day. Bus stops near the Convention Center are located on southbound Coastal Highway at 41st Street and northbound Coastal Highway at 39th and 42nd streets.

ADA-accessible service is available to qualified individuals during the same hours. However, riders must make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. For transportation details, contact Ocean City Transportation at 410-723-1606 or visit www.oceancitymd.gov.

Your Vote Shapes Your Community

Local elections like this one directly impact the decisions made in your town. Two seats on the Ocean City Council are up for grabs, and the people elected will have a real say in how Ocean City moves forward.

Whether you vote in person, by mail, or hop on a free bus to get there, Ocean City has made it easier than ever to participate. Every vote cast in a local election carries significant weight.

For questions about the special election or absentee ballots, contact the City Clerk's Office at 410-289-8824 or visit www.oceancitymd.gov.