OCEAN CITY, Md. — Ocean City is Maryland's favorite vacation spot and Mayor Rick Meehan is their number one cheerleader, that's why this is something you never hear the Mayor say.
"If you're planning to spend a nice relaxing and quiet weekend in Ocean City, unfortunately this probably wouldn't be the best choice," Meehan said.
That's because of the unsanctioned car rally, H2oi. Car enthusiasts, especially those that like low profile Volkswagen's or Audi's come to the beach from around the nation. Unruly crowds, arrest, fire works on coastal highway have become the norm for the mostly late teenager and 20-year-old crowd and all this during a pandemic.
If you have a low-profile hot rod and are thinking of heading down to Ocean City and showing off a little bit, Mayor Meehan has some information for you.
"Adding some provisions to our special events zone bill, legislation that now allows us to make arrest for demonstration driving, reckless driving. Even for riot control, for people, individuals, spectators that cause problems and create situations or disturbances," Meehan said.
Mayor Meehan said last year this rally would not be welcome and he made more changes to deter dangerous behavior.
"We've increased all fine for violations and we are able to impound vehicles and this year those are the actions we are going to take. We don't want to take those actions, but if necessary, that's exactly what we are going to do," he explained.
The Mayor has a standing invitation for everyone.
"Everybody is welcome to come to Ocean City, all we ask you to do is obey our laws and be respectful to others," he said.
A sentiment shared by many locals and vacationers at the beach.
