Personal Opinion Eminent Domain - Christ Church

Personal Opinion ( Solely as a resident of Ocean County)
I Quote the Mayor of Toms River: “We have always had a plan to do this. It’s been a long-time idea,” said Rodrick. “We had plans to take this property before this process ever began. It’s something we had been talking about as an administration and as a council for some time.” In 17 years, this is the first time I have ever read a published acknowledgment of the planning acquisition of Christ Church via the use of eminent domain.
I am not a resident of Toms River, but I am an Episcopalian and parish member of Christ Church, and a resident of Ocean County, in Berkeley Township. And as such do not consider myself as an outsider .
My personal view is that the Mayor's comments are nothing more than a veiled blackmail attempt, speaking before the introduction of the ordinance, which will allow this process to go forward. Although he stated he was not allowed to comment before the council meeting, that is exactly what he has done.
I believe he intends to have the Church cancel its efforts to aid those of the community most in need. Driven by his "Not In My Town" mantra.
What I percieve is a vendetta against those members of our community who are marginalized and in need is plain to see; rather than governing to support them, he has in fact and actions adopted the "Not In My Town" mantra as a solution, rather then offering real support for those he seeks to eliminate.
His prior actions of closing the town of its only animal shelter, and crusade against the Bon Jovi Soul Kitchen, which ends tomorrow, are evidence enough. His choice of words and characterization of those in need are cruel and are not what one expects from a public servant's leadership.
If he governed to solve the problem of those in need and homeless, rather then eliminating them, there might not be a need for non-governmental intervention.
The residents of Toms River should wonder who he will target next for removal, and who he labels "Not In My Town."
Over the 17 years, I cannot count all the times that Christ Chuch has supported the community of Toms River. I remember with gratitude the parish members who volunteered to deliver cleanup supplies in the aftermath of the storms and the outreach efforts. Driving through flooded streets to hand out donations, to comfort those who were in need. I consider the property to be sacred ground. (all of it). The generations of town people who are interred there, and the rich history of Christ Church, as the once the home of one of a Bishop of the Episcopal Church, should not be taken or treated lightly.
Signed
Thomas J. Meehan III
USAF Veteran 62-68 DAV & American legion Lifetime Member Gold Star Family Member
9/11 Family Member - Never Forget Daughter Age 26, North Tower