The council approved an ordinance authorizing the purchase and subsequent conveyance of properties on Westwood and Morris Avenues to New Jersey Transit Corporation. This move is part of a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing the Long Branch Train Station, including the construction of a pedestrian tunnel funded by $21.1 million in federal and state grants. The ordinance’s passage came after no public comments were made during its hearing.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted significant local concerns, particularly around offshore wind farms and immigration policies. A resident expressed gratitude towards Clean Ocean Action and local leaders for opposing offshore wind farms along the Long Branch coast. The speaker attributed the resistance movement’s momentum to a protest held in June 2023 and highlighted a recent executive order by President Trump placing a moratorium on new offshore wind farm development.

Another speaker raised urgent concerns about past and potential future cooperation between local police and federal immigration authorities. The speaker called for a commitment from the city to ensure that any future agreements do not compromise the safety and security of immigrant communities in Long Branch. The speaker emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment for all residents, particularly in schools and public spaces.