Cape May’s Feathered Visitors Return: Tips for Hosting Hummingbirds

Issue #323

April 20, 2025

In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather 

🦟Cape May’s Feathered Visitors Return: Tips for Hosting Hummingbirds

‍ 💰Cape May Holds Property Tax Rate Flat for Sixth Straight Year

🚗 Lawmakers Slam NJ Turnpike Authority Over Foreign- Owned Toll System

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Shop Local

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

 April 20

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Cape May’s Feathered Visitors Return: Tips for Hosting Hummingbirds

 

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have returned to Cape May County, with the first sighting on April 9.  Weighing just a few grams, these birds are a seasonal staple in eastern North America, stretching their breeding range as far west as the Plains and as far north as southern Canada. Each spring, the first hummingbirds—typically males—arrive in Cape May County between April 10 and 15. This year, the first sighting came slightly early on April 9 at Cape May Point. Many of these birds have made an incredible journey from Mexico or Central America, often flying nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico. Residents can attract these birds by setting up clean, well-placed feeders and planting native flowers. The Cape May Bird Observatory offers feeders and guidance, while a native plant sale at the Nature Center of Cape May is set for May 3.

 

Cape May Holds Property Tax Rate Flat for Sixth Straight Year

 Cape May introduced a $27.98 million municipal budget for 2025, holding the local tax rate steady for the sixth year in a row. With additional utility budgets included, the city’s total spending plan reaches $41.5 million. Increased ratables and strong revenue from hotel and parking fees help fund services and capital projects without raising taxes. A public hearing is scheduled for May 20. In addition to property taxes, Cape May expects to generate approximately $10 million in revenue from occupancy taxes, parking fees, and other sources. This includes over $3 million from hotel room taxes, which also help fund capital improvements. The city auditor endorsed the budget ahead of its introduction, calling it sound and comprehensive. He highlighted that the budget continues to fund all core services and new capital projects without raising taxes.

Lawmakers Slam NJ Turnpike Authority Over Foreign-Owned Toll System 

 The New Jersey Turnpike Authority has upheld a $1.73 billion contract awarding E-ZPass operations to TransCore, ending its 22-year partnership with Conduent. Despite Conduent’s claim of a lower bid and accusations of bid irregularities, an internal ruling found no wrongdoing. The deal has raised privacy and national security concerns due to TransCore’s ties to China. TransCore’s parent company, ST Engineering, is headquartered in Singapore, prompting criticism from lawmakers about foreign involvement in critical infrastructure.

Which historic Cape May building, now a museum, is one of the best examples of Victorian Stick style architecture in the United States?

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Answer to the April 19th Trivia Question

What is the name of the U.S. Navy facility established in Cape May during World War II that played a crucial role in protecting the East Coast from submarine threats?

A) Cape May Naval Air Station
B) Cape May Naval Shipyard
C) Cape May Coastal Defense Station
D) Cape May Naval Fortress

Answer: A) Cape May Naval Air Station

During World War II, Cape May was home to several naval facilities, including the Cape May Naval Air Station, which was vital in protecting the East Coast from German submarine threats. This station, along with other naval installations in the area, helped safeguard American coastal shipping during the war​.

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