KEAN HOLDS TOWN MEETING IN LONG BRANCH

DISCUSSES IMPORTANT COMMUNITY ISSUES INCLUDING EMINENT DOMAIN AND LONG BRANCH UEZ
 

On Wednesday, February 28 Assemblyman Sean T. Kean (R-11) hosted a town meeting in the City of Long Branch. This meeting was part of Assemblyman Kean’s plan to hold town meetings in each of the 25 municipalities in his district; he is now visiting these communities for a second meeting.

After updating the audience on what is currently going on in Trenton including the Governor’s recently announced budget, Assemblyman Kean opened up the discussion for any questions. Many of the residents in attendance were concerned about eminent domain abuse and wanted to know about Assemblyman Kean’s eminent domain legislation.

“The law must ensure that the power of eminent domain is not abused,” said Assemblyman Sean T. Kean. “By carefully redefining the use of eminent domain and where it can be applied, we can end the practice of using eminent domain to seize homes that are not negatively impacting the community.”

Kean stated that his legislation would help to protect private property owners by requiring the municipality to determine that the property is detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of its residents in order for it to be condemned.

“My legislation would propose a constitutional amendment that requires private property in a blighted area must be determined to be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of its residents before it can be condemned for development or redevelopment purposes,” remarked Kean. “If this legislation were enacted and approved by the voters, peoples’ homes could not be taken simply because they are located in a redevelopment zone.”

In addition to eminent domain, members of the audience also asked questions regarding the Long Branch Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ). Assemblyman Kean told the audience that he believes the UEZ program is a success and he is committed to working to keep the UEZ program operating.

“The Urban Enterprise Zone program is helping communities like Long Branch to stimulate business,” said Assemblyman Kean. “It would definitely negatively impact on the businesses in Long Branch and Asbury Park if the UEZ program is eliminated.”

Assemblyman Kean also addressed the lack of affordable housing in Monmouth County, issues with homeowners insurance and proposals to reduce state property taxes.

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