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Council authorizes eminent domain for two Atlantic Avenue parcels after public comment on notices
Summary
The Rocky Mount City Council adopted a resolution to exercise eminent domain to acquire interests in two Atlantic Avenue parcels after public comment questioned notice procedures.
The Rocky Mount City Council adopted a resolution exercising the power of eminent domain to acquire certain interests in properties at 103 Atlantic Avenue and 111 Atlantic Avenue.
During the public comment period, Otis Jordan said he had learned indirectly that eminent domain proceedings might affect his property and said he had not received formal notice. Jordan cited North Carolina law, saying "North Carolina chapter 48 stipulates a 30 day notice period," and said he considered the city's approach an overreach if proper notice and compensation were not provided.
Mayor Robertson responded that "eminent domain is the absolute measure of last resort," and said some items had been postponed to allow staff an additional 10 to 15 days to interface with affected owners and determine whether an impasse existed. The mayor emphasized the council takes eminent-domain decisions seriously.
Later in the meeting the council considered a resolution specifically for 103 and 111 Atlantic Avenue. Councilman Blackwell moved to approve the resolution; Councilman Joiner seconded. The motion carried by voice vote.
The transcript shows a separate agenda item (13a) was postponed earlier in the meeting to provide time for staff contact with property owners; the council approved item 13b (the Atlantic Avenue resolution) at this meeting.
