Eminent Domain, TIF Legislation Clear Riverdale Council

Riverdale Park could have a new sculpture garden or park at the gateway of the town after the council’s decision to proceed with the processes of acquiring the property known as Jey’s Auto by eminent domain.

At last week’s worksession, property owner Jey Edward, his family and several Riverdale Park Residents vociferously objected to the town’s move to legally acquire the long defunct gas station.

Members of the Riverdale Park Business Association advocated giving Edward more time to develop the property into something that would conform to the zoning regulations.

Riverdale Park Mayor Archer and the council were undeterred, standing by their previous claims that Edward had yet to submit an appropriate plan though he had several years to do so.

The legislation to acquire the Jey’s Auto by eminent domain was approved unanimously with a 4-0 vote. Council members Christopher Henry (Ward 4) and Raymond Rivas (Ward 5) were absent from Monday’s meeting.

The council also unanimously approved a  that would partially fund a CSX crossing.

This legislation helps Calvert Tract fulfill one of the conditions to begin construction of development by establishing a funding mechanism for the CSX bridge.

Riverdale Park resident Joe Kelly was opposed to the TIF legislation. He raised concerns that the town would have no way of ensuring that Calvert Tract builds the bridge.

Councilman Alan Thompson (Ward 2), said this was not a concern as there was a performance penalty built into the TIF, meaning if the bridge is not built, Calvert Tract would have to pay a substantial monetary penalty.