A $25 million bid from Philip Norcross aims to transform the former Gillian's Wonderland Pier site in Ocean City into waterfront townhomes. "As a long-time Ocean City homeowner who is committed to the future of the city, Phil believes there is a great opportunity to redevelop Wonderland Pier and maintain Ocean City as America's greatest family resort," said Dan Fee, spokesperson for the Norcross family, in a statement to NJ Advance Media. Former owner and Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian sold after $8 million in mortgage debt piled up. Local activists, Ocean City 2050, shot down the hotel concept, pushing instead for their Wonderland Commons vision, a mix of smaller rides and housing units. Any new housing would need approval from city zoning officials.