Meet the Candidate: Michael Hyson

Five candidates are running for three open at-large council seats in the May 13 non-partisan elections. The seats are for four-year terms.

Ocean City Patch sent a series of questions to each candidate in this year's elections. The questions listed below are listed as sent, and each answer is published as received, with corrections for minor errors.

The subject of today's "Meet the Candidate" profile is Michael Hyson.

Why are you running?

I am running for city council-at-large to become part of the process of fair and honest government making decisions in the best interest of Ocean City, not just now but for future generations. I am part of this community and I want to serve.

What do you feel are the most pressing issues?

Repairing our roads, bulkheads, drainage system and everything that mitigates flooding. 

Public Safety - Continue to provide the highest level of Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services. 

Fiscal Responsibility – Budgets and expenditures will be questioned.  Cost saving methods employed to minimize the tax burden to our citizens.

Dredging - Find solutions for disposing of the spoils. Look for a dedicated source of revenue to dredge our back bays on a regular schedule.

Beach Replenishment – Make sure that we are replenishing all the beaches on a regular basis.

Uphold the traditions and values of Ocean City. 

What changes would you make to what the current council is doing?

I am not running to make changes.  Our system of government requires city council to be the checks and balances.

I understand the time constraints and rules for public comment during regular council meetings.  One suggestion I would make is to utilize more scheduled workshops and possible rule changes for public comment at those workshops.  Allow dialogue and follow up questions to be permitted. If not, announce town hall meetings to accommodate that format.

What would you bring to council that no one else would bring?

My career in law enforcement has provided me with training and experience that have served me well in my professional and personal life. I consider myself to have strong organizational and problem solving skills and would apply those skills serving as a member of city council.

What is your political background? What offices have you held/run for in the past?

I have no political background. This is the first time I have run for any political office.

Age:  54 

Education:  Archbishop Ryan High School

Number of years lived in Ocean City: 2 years as full time resident, 10 years as a second homeowner

Family: Married 33 years to my wife Bonnie, 2 children  Nicole and Gregory and his wife Bethany both serving in the U.S. military, granddaughter Emmaline age 9

Occupation: Retired 22 years from the Philadelphia Police Department

Public Service: Volunteer American Legion Post 524, member O.C.C.A. and applications pending with Local Assistance Board & Utility Advisory Commission