The mayor of a Rhode Island town is using eminent domain to seize land owned by a developer planning to construct a 252-unit affordable housing development.
WPRI.com reports Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr. of Johnston declared last week that his town has taken over 31 acres of vacant land owned by Waterman Chenango LLC. Polisena stated the land will be used for a “municipal campus” that will include the construction of a new town hall, police station and fire station.
Polisena has been opposed to the housing development, claiming it would create a “trifecta of chaos” due to increased traffic, drainage issues and an influx of residents. He also sought to justify his action by posting dozens of photographs online that allegedly showed derelict conditions of the municipal facilities he is seeking to replace.
An attorney representing Waterman Chenango said the developer only learned of the mayor’s plan when it was announced online and was not provided with any additional information on the eminent domain proclamation.
Photo: Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr.
I would be interested in the contractor (s) who will be building this and any political connections ! Looks like a lot on money changing hands between government and others. Are there competitive bids? I want a definition of affordable! There is no affordable new construction. For the average person. You buy existing and gradually move up. Your first car is usually used then eventually you can buy new
I don’t agree with this at all. You cannot violate someone’s property rights in the name of affordable housing. This is not what eminent domain is for.
You’re right!! “You cannot violate someone’s property rights in the name of affordable housing. ”
But if you read the article, “Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr. of Johnston declared last week that his town has taken over 31 acres of vacant land owned by Waterman Chenango LLC. Polisena”. The Mayor is stealing the land owned by someone who is building affordable housing, because the Mayor doesn’t want the affordable housing project there.
Does this change your opinion?