2 Perth Amboy business owners celebrate eminent domain victory
“I actually got goosebumps in my arms. I was very joyful to hear that decision favor us,” Romero said.
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Two business owners in Perth Amboy are no longer facing the threat that their buildings could be taken by the city through eminent domain.
Luis Romero, owner of Quick Tire & Auto, and Honey Meerzon, owner of 505 Smith Street LLC, had been in a legal battle with the City of Perth Amboy over a blight designation on their properties.
On Monday, a Middlesex County judge ruled the buildings were not blighted and could not be taken through eminent domain.
“I actually got goosebumps in my arms. I was very joyful to hear that decision favor us,” Romero said.
“I think I screamed so loud. I don’t even know how to express the emotion,” Meerzon said.
The city has 45 days to appeal the decision.
In a statement to News 12 New Jersey, the mayor’s office said the Planning Board’s action followed a public hearing process supported by a professional report and sworn testimony from a licensed outside expert, and that the City Council acted based on that record.
