(03/24/06) LONG BRANCH ? A group of Long Branch residents took their eminent domain battle against the city to court Friday.

The residents also made their feelings known with demonstrations outside the courthouse. They believe Long Branch officials are abusing eminent domain, the practice of taking away private land for public use. Lawyers representing the residents say the land will be transformed into expensive condos and will not be taken for public use.

The affected homeowners say they were told their houses would be spared. However, the mayor of Long Branch denies that claim.

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