Long Branch council tables Transit Village zoning change amid 'positive' talks with hospital

The Long Branch City Council opened a public hearing Dec. 23 on Ordinance 0-20-25, a proposed amendment to Chapter 345 that would remove residential uses from the Transit Village District Medical Village Subdistrict and repeal an unused Medical/Hospital zone district. Attorney Raynham told the council there have been "very positive" discussions with the hospital and asked that no adoption take place tonight.

Resident Vincent Lepore asked whether talks were indeed underway and whether the hospital would remain in Long Branch; the attorney replied, "There are... very positive discussions," and council members said they wanted more time to let negotiations progress. After public comment, the council moved to close the hearing and, on the attorney's advice, tabled the ordinance until next year. The motion to table passed by roll call.

Why it matters: the ordinance would alter allowable uses in the Transit Village's Medical Village Subdistrict, a change that could affect potential redevelopment of land near the hospital. Council members said holding the ordinance allows them to coordinate any zoning change with the hospital's plans.

What the record shows: the council president introduced the ordinance and read that it amends section 345-39 and the table of bulk uses for the Transit Village District, removing residential uses in the Medical Village Subdistrict. Attorney Raynham said the ordinance was introduced when the hospital's future was uncertain but that "the conversations have been very positive," and recommended tabling the item. The council then voted to table the ordinance.

Next steps: The public hearing was closed and the ordinance was tabled; council members indicated they expect to revisit the item in 2026 as talks with the hospital continue. A public hearing had been held as required by law prior to any final action.