[RP TownTalk] Jey's auto

[Jonathan W. Ebbeler]

Bruce/Sue/Guy et al. -

 

The original question posed was if I thought Jey would sell us the property
given that he has rejected Hyattsville, EYA, and many others.  My answer
simply is no I do not.  While possible he could sell I do not believe it is
at all probable; I believe the sentimental value he holds on this property
as his first business being a gas station and wanting to re-live those days
more than outnumbers any rational offer we could put forward.  I am not
convinced he would accept any offer regardless of how high.

 

The second question that was asked by several concerned condemnation.  I am
sure many of you would prefer the Town act in good faith and municipal
partner in attempting to at least purchase the property vs. going the
eminent domain path as a starting point.  Although eminent
domain/condemnation is certainly within our municipality's toolset, it
should be the last, not first strategy we employ.  We have made it
abundantly clear to the owner that the Town does not have any appetite for a
gas station.  The owner at this point would not be spending his money
prudently if he brought an existing vacant shell up to code for an Occupancy
and Use the Town will never approve.  Hopefully the owner will take an offer
when presented;  there has not been a response to date so it is suspected he
is again not interested.  So yes, this does leave us with the
condemnation/eminent domain option.

 

To many of the points brought up in regards to use of public funds.  I would
hope that the Town residents took notice his year that the Mayor's proposed
budget included provisions to reduce taxes which was passed by the Council.
This land acquisition is in no way profligate but represents best practices
for fiscal restraint.  If the town acquires the property, the short run goal
of improving a derelict property will be accomplished through the demolition
of the building and seeding of the grounds; we also fully recognize that a
park is not a best-use for this site.  The acquisition of the property,
however, gives the Town options, all of which would replenish the Town's
coffers and lead to additional opportunities for tax reductions.

 

It is my goal as Chair of the Economic Development Committee to be
innovative and forward thinking in encouraging vibrant commercial
enterprises along Kenilworth, our Town Center, and Route 1.   Towns get into
trouble financially when they are forced to be reactive vs. proactive to
economic downturns and other economic cycles.  Recent history demonstrates
that towns and cities that had a varied and eclectic economic base fared
much, much better during the recession than those without a diverse revenue
foci.

 

I encourage everyone to attend the next Work Session and Legislative
meetings and provide public comment.  Please keep in mind, the Town has not
committed to a path, all options are on the table, we are only exploring
what is possible at the moment.

 

Best,

 

Jonathan

 

Jonathan W. Ebbeler | Councilmember - Ward One

Town of Riverdale Park



 

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