Condemnation letters send wrong message to East Harlem property owners
“City Economic Development Corp. officials say they would prefer to negotiate, rather than use the power of eminent domain, but several of the property owners received condemnation letters on Tuesday, and they’re not buying the city’s claim.
“If you’re going to send me a notice, that’s telling me you’re going to take it,” said Damon Bae, who owns three parcels within the East Harlem Redevelopment Zone including Fancy Cleaners on Third Ave. near E. 126th St. “It is 100% contrary to what they’re saying.”
The Economic Development Corp. initiated the proceedings three weeks ago as a formality, said spokeswoman Kate Blumm, or it risked losing the right to do so.
The city already owns about 75% of the Redevelopment Zone, which includes 125th to 127th Sts. between Second and Third Aves., Blumm said.”
Ransom, Jan. Daily News 6 March 2014.