Proposed Ocean City Luxury Hotel Launches Petition For Support

OCEAN CITY, NJ — As the battle between those for and against a luxury hotel replacing Wonderland in Ocean City continues, ICONA Resorts is seeking the public's support via petition.

"To bring this vision to life, we need your vote," the petition reads.

The luxury hotel builders launched the petition titled "Support ICONA Ocean City" as a way to "help [them] bring [their] newest dream to life," according to a Facebook post.

"Your signature—your continued support and your visits—means the world to us," the petition reads. "It’s more than we could ever ask for. It’s a promise of unforgettable vacations and a bright future for our guests and their experiences."

The petition has garnered more than 2,000 signatures as of Thursday afternoon; nearly a quarter to its goal.

Recently, local group Ocean City 2050 commissioned a poll that determined slightly more than half of Ocean City residents oppose ICONA Ocean City - 53 percent were against it, while 44 percent were in favor. Read more: More Than Half In Ocean City Oppose Wonderland Luxury Hotel, New Poll Says

ICONA CEO Eustace Mita has been expected to formally present his proposal for the luxury hotel before City Council sometime this summer; no official date has been announced, however. Mita told the Ocean City Sentinel after the previous poll results came out that he would present his plan in the third week of August. A City Council meeting is set for Aug. 21.

The proposal has been met with controversy since its initial announcement, as residents are split between wanting to keep the energy of Gillian's Wonderland Pier versus those who embrace a new hotel on the Boardwalk.

"At ICONA, our dream has always been to create spaces that bring beauty, community, and cherished memories to the shore. Today, we’re inviting you to help us shape the next chapter: ICONA Ocean City," the petition reads. "We believe this project will enhance the charm and vibrancy of Ocean City, offering a place where families can gather, friendships can grow, and life’s simple joys can be celebrated."