Meet Longport Mayor, Patrick Armstrong

Interview with Longport Mayor, Patrick Armstrong. By Phil Neri.

On Nov 5, 2024, Patrick Armstrong was elected as a commissioner for Longport Borough. On Jan 15, 2025, Armstrong was appointed Mayor of Longport.

Why did you decide to run for mayor?

Patrick Armstrong: I grew up in Longport and my first job was working at age 12 at the tennis courts on 33 rd Avenue for Mayor Howard Kupperman. Then I worked for many years as beach patrol captain for Mayor Mike Cohen, who founded the Longport Historical Society. It’s an honor to follow in their footsteps.

You serve with Margate and Longport fire departments. Why did you choose public safety?

Armstrong: I started on the beach patrol at age 13, and there was no better feeling than assisting the public. That evolved into volunteering for the fire department. This was my introduction to public service.

Challenges facing Longport?

Armstrong: We have a law in the state of New Jersey that we must take all of the lead out of our drinking water systems by 2031. There’s not a lot of it, but it will require digging up the streets. Also, there are issues with the Borough Hall building that must be addressed.

Top priorities you want to accomplish in your first term as mayor?

Armstrong: I must acknowledge commissioners Dan Lawler and Jim Ulmer. We share common goals and work well together. Fix “The Point” at the southern end of town. It has been in disrepair for a long time. Create three more parks for our citizens. Create a fire department memorial to honor our volunteer firemen, past chiefs, and remember those who have passed on. It’s a lot of work, but these goals are achievable. This new government has great energy and excitement, and we want to make Longport a better place.

What was it like growing up in the Downbeach area?

Armstrong: It was incredible. Riding my bicycle, and the freedom to go anywhere on the island. My friends and I would spend all day rowing, fishing, crabbing and playing in the marshes. We were known as the Bay Rats. It was truly a wonderful place to grow up.

What’s your favorite Downbeach restaurant and go-to menu item?

Armstrong: Let’s call this “The Mayor’s Picks”! Catch: bay scallops, Ozzie’s: blueberry pancakes, Steve & Cookies: cauliflower steak, Lamberti’s: fried green tomatoes and pizza, Greenhouse: pulled pork sandwich; and pizza, Shuckers: Zack’s printed espresso martini, Sofia’s: drunken burger, Bocca: coal fire wings; Thai chili chicken tenders, and Robert’s Place: mussels. I could go on, but we’ll be here til tomorrow!

Activity you enjoy when not working?

Armstrong: Walking on Dog Beach with my wife, Krista.

For a family vacation, where do you go?

Armstrong: My sons, Patrick and Tommy, love to ski, and we go to Pico Mountain Ski Resort in Vermont. Pico is also the name of our Labrador Retriever!

What makes Longport a special town?

Armstrong: We are special because of our residents, and we are based on volunteerism. Some examples: our American Legion Group has wonderful programs including the Memorial Day and Wounded Warrier Parades, and our Volunteer Fire Company. Just this year, we have over twenty people volunteering on committees to build 3 new parks. Our people make Longport special.