The ordinance authorizing the sale of the vacant property on Long Branch Avenue, known as block 308 lot 32, was given its final consideration and was approved by the council members present, with Dr. Mary Jane Celli, Rose Widdis, Mario Vieira, and Mayor John Pallone voting in favor. Council members Bill Dangler and Dr. Anita Voogt were absent.

Further, the council introduced ordinances amending off-street parking regulations, which add a tractor-trailer parking provision, and revising meter parking areas for Madison Avenue, Second Avenue, Long Branch Avenue, and Cooper Avenue. These changes aim to update the city’s parking infrastructure in response to evolving needs.

Public participation remained an aspect of the meeting, with residents inquiring about the city’s approach to development projects and affordable housing. Leor pressed the council and city attorney on the transparency of property sales and the city’s compliance with affordable housing obligations, pointing to specific properties and transactions. The city attorney clarified that Long Branch does not have an affordable housing problem in terms of legal obligations, but recognized the broader policy issue of housing affordability for residents.

In other business, the council moved to appoint new members to the Long Branch Fire Department and approved the renewal of taxi cab owners’ licenses for 2024. Councilwoman Voogt, attending remotely, expressed her hopes to return in person for the next meeting. Councilwoman Widdis thanked the city administration and staff for their efforts, and Mayor John Pallone highlighted community events and urged residents to take advantage of the Holiday Beach badge sale and visit the city’s art center exhibitions.