Monday, September 8, 2008

Eminent domain abuse in Atlantic City

More than 20 years after fleeing communism in Vietnam, where his business was seized and he was thrown in jail, Quang Ha fears he could lose his business in this country as well.

Some property owners in Atlantic City are afraid the city could try to take their land to make way for a new $2 billion casino project.

"I'm too small," the jewelry store owner said. "That's why they're stepping on me."

The City Council is to vote Wednesday night on a proposal to designate land in the area of the former Sands Casino Hotel as an area in need of redevelopment. That's where Pinnacle Entertainment plans to build its beach house-themed casino.

The designation would enable the city, if it so chose, to use the power of eminent domain to seize the land of property owners who are unwilling to sell.


Casino Project Latest N.J. Eminent Domain Flap

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