The proposed land swap deal involves exchanging 25.4 acres of private land adjacent to Tewksbury Hospital off East Street for 19 acres of hospital land on Livingston Street. The 19 acres is just part of the hospital's 800 acres.

Reportedly, the state Department of Public Health prefers developing the apartments on Livingston Street because there are three wells near East Street that could be endangered from a nearby development. Many local opponents to the plan object to the development of the Livingston Street area, which currently has a number of playing fields.

Sullivan's brother, David, is on the hospital's Board of Trustees, but recused himself when the plan was put to a vote. The trustees passed the plan 4 to 1. Tewksbury selectman passed the proposal 3 to 2. A land swap bill--which would enable the deal to go through--is currently before the state Senate, but a number of local state senators have reportedly pledged to oppose the bill unless there is a land-use plan for the parcel next to the hospital property.