Commissioner Jane Dellheim, continued

2. In what circumstances and situations should eminent domain be exercised by Lower Merion Township?

A. Every state in the United States, including Pennsylvania, grants state and local governments certain rights to exercise the power of eminent domain. I believe that this power should be exercised very sparingly, only where the public interest is best served by the taking of private property and where other options will not protect the public interest equally well. While it is difficult to define what is in the "public interest," I believe that it includes those instances when it is necessary to protect public health or safety, when it is necessary for significant social or economic progress to occur, or when it is necessary to clear the path for significant public buildings and structures, including particularly transportation projects such as roads, railroad tracks, and waterways.

3. What is your position on the proposed Ardmore Redevelopment Plan and what will you do regarding its implementation if elected?

A. My fundamental position on the Ardmore Redevelopment Plan as passed is a matter of public record. On January 11, 2005, I voted against this Plan. I stand by that vote.

Notwithstanding that vote, I fully support the Township's goal of bringing new life and commercial viability to the Ardmore community. I particularly support revitalizing the Ardmore train station, which was built as a temporary structure, while interfering as little [as] possible with the historical and environmental beauty of Ardmore. The transit center is a critical part of connecting Ardmore to the rest of the Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania community because it is a stop on both SEPTA's R5 and Amtrak's Keystone lines, linking Ardmore to Philadelphia, New York, Harrisburg and Pittsburgh. In addition, the new train station will meet the federal Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements, providing accessible transportation to our handicapped and elderly citizens.

I support enhancing the economic opportunities along Lancaster Avenue in a way that best improves Historic Ardmore while minimizing any dislocation or disruption to business[es] that are presently there. I also support attracting new businesses to the neighborhood.

I think it unfortunate that the public--and for that matter SAC--has been so confused about the Ardmore Redevelopment Plan.

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