The United Socialist State of New Jersey

Homeowner to homeless


State Public Advocate Ronald Chen wants to put a face on what eminent domain abuse has done to folks in New Jersey. He doesn't have to look far. In 2002, Long Branch took 47 Cooper Ave., the home of Bruce MacCloud where he lived 300 feet from the ocean for more than 20 years. He did not want to move; he was not cooperative with the taking and was forcibly removed by police.

Two months later, his house was demolished and today there are million-dollar condos on his 10,000 square feet of land. Almost five years later, MacCloud is still homeless because the compensation courts have yet to hold his trial. The Long Branch legal team keeps postponing his trial for one reason or another. The matter is so embarrassing to the state that no one wants to talk about it.

We should be ashamed of ourselves. As we build homes, schools and hospitals for the people of Afghanistan and Iraq, how can we stand idly by while one of our own is treated this way? Eminent domain has done enough damage, especially in Long Branch. The most recent city budget has a substantial increase in our taxes. Obviously, the redevelopment of Long Branch, as pretty as it may be, hasn't even provided economic relief to the taxpayers. Yet it continues.

Eminent domain threatens the quality of life for property owners and taxpayers alike. Gov. Corzine needs to call for a moratorium on all seizures of private property and require all takings in the state to gain approval through Chen's office. Local boards who have the power to abuse eminent domain should have to answer to a higher power, before they destroy the quality of life for one more family.

The Rev. Kevin Brown

Reverand Browns letter was published in today's Asbury Park Press