Friday, July 3, 2009

Eminent domain for Coney Island?

From the Daily News:

The city's Coney Island plan suffered a major setback Wednesday as officials admitted they had not ruled out the use of eminent domain to acquire land for the project.

The admission, which threatens property owned by developer Thor Equities, came as some City Council members strongly indicated they would vote against the zoning plan this month when it goes before the full Council.

"I'm not saying we will use eminent domain, but in fairness to your question, I'm not saying we won't," said flustered Economic Development Corp. President Seth Pinsky following repeated inquiries about land seizure from Council members.

Meanwhile, several Council members - including mayoral hopeful Tony Avella, Simcha Felder and Helen Sears - suggested they would vote against the plan at a July 29 City Council session.

"I'm recommending to turn this down," said Councilman Domenic Recchia (D-Coney Island), echoing others.


Will Christine Quinn have a talk with Felder, Sears and Recchia? Will their phony principles will be cast aside as they vote "yes" - just like at Willets Point? Or will the fact that the eminent domain victim in this case is a deep-pocketed developer cause them to stand firm? Hey Pinsky - you forgot to use the term "affordable housing" this time!

2 comments:

Taxpayer said...

How else would Commissar Death and Taxes negotiate?

Without a gun to the head of the private property owner? No way!

He must, MUST take the land by force.

It pleases him. That make it good.

Wallets Point said...

Join the club!!!