READER'S WRITE

Over the last few months I have watched and hoped that a statewide group of eminent domain victims would emerge and take the lead on reform of the New Jersey Eminent Domain laws. Obviously, the Public Advocate gets it, and he is saying we have been right all along.

Recently, the Institute for Justice asked a group in Long Branch to celebrate the anniversary of Kelo v. New London with a rally here. That decision shouldn't be marked with a celebration. As a matter of fact, I am even more confused about why we would "celebrate" an event that was a blow to every land owner in America!Mrs. Kelo certainly doesn't feel like celebrating; Call and ask her. That decision was the Institute for Justice's DEFEAT, their FAILURE. They are looking for another defeat at the local level so they might have another case to bring before the United States Supreme Court. Why should we support or appease public interest law firms in Washington, D.C.?

Public interest groups need us; It's not the other way around. They need us to make headlines so they can raise money from financial backers.

If Long Branch needs a rally, let's pick a better reason, with a more positive meaning and message: rally in a place of victory for an event of victory. Let's honor the New Jersey lawyers who fight this injustice for the people right here in New Jersey, including the lawyer who recently represented Cramer Hill in Camden. We could even honor the elected officials who refuse to apply eminent domain to the homes and businesses in their communities.

I would prefer to see us win these cases right here in the New Jersey courts. If we support our New Jersey lawyers and legislators, we just might accomplish that.

Rev. Kevin Brown
Long Branch, New Jersey