$1.2 Million Bond for Eminent Domain Acquisition of 73 Main Street
Summary
Tom Maris reported the property owner's firm notified the township the Main Street building is not being abandoned, which could undercut the township's May ordinance treating it as abandoned. Mayor McCormac stood firm: the building has been vacant 18+ months and meets abandoned-property criteria, and the township intends to take it by eminent domain.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 3
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Sep 1, 2026.
Impact analysis
Potential litigation and acquisition costs if eminent domain proceeds.
Downtown Woodbridge revitalization if the vacant building is reopened as a vibrant business.
The property owner if the building is taken by eminent domain.
Mentions & discussions (3)
Council - Sep 1, 2026
The council adopted a $1.2 million bond ordinance to buy — or if necessary take by eminent domain — the property at 73 Main Street for a public purpose. Bonding spreads the cost over years rather than a one-time hit to the budget.
Council - Aug 4, 2026
Tom Maris reported the property owner's firm notified the township the Main Street building is not being abandoned, which could undercut the township's May ordinance treating it as abandoned. Mayor McCormac stood firm: the building has been vacant 18+ months and meets abandoned-property criteria, and the township intends to take it by eminent domain.
Council - Jun 23, 2026
The township is pursuing condemnation of a long-vacant, gutted building in the middle of downtown Woodbridge's Main Street, saying it's an eyesore and safety hazard next to thriving shops. The mayor says the threat of condemnation can push owners to sell or fix up — as happened with the former Jammer's Bar property.
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