BELLEVILLE, NJ — A two-year-long eminent domain battle continues to play out in Belleville, with a court hearing set to take place next week.
The township filed legal motions to acquire 580 Belleville Avenue and 233 Franklin Avenue in 2024. The addresses encompass the "Great Lawn," an open space of greenery at the intersection of Belleville and Franklin avenues.
After obtaining an appraisal, the township made a written offer to purchase the properties for $85,000 in 2023.
The NJ Superior Court has issued an order to show cause as to why final judgment should not be entered that the plaintiff has duly exercised its power of eminent domain.
An amended verified complaint to acquire the properties for "public use" was filed on April 6. A hearing is scheduled for Aug. 28.
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