Josh Quinter, Ward 8 - Ardmore/Wynnewood

A. I strongly disagree with the finding that Historic Ardmore is blighted. My opposition to the blight designation is based on two factors. First, the blight designation is the first step in any plan to use eminent domain to seize private property owned by businesses in Ardmore and turn it over to private developers. If there was no intention to use eminent domain, a blight designation was not necessary so early in the process.

Second, Historic Ardmore is simply not blighted. The state statutes define blight generally as properties that are dilapidated, unsafe, unsanitary, and vacant. The purpose of the blight designation as stated in the statutes is to rehabilitate, through eminent domain, areas that regulatory processes and private investment could not resuscitate. This is far from the case in Ardmore. Ardmore is not dilapidated, unsafe, or unsanitary. While there are some vacant store fronts, the issues facing Ardmore can be addressed without the need for a blight designation or the use of eminent domain. Limited and responsible development, intelligent regulation, and tax incentives, among other things, can be used to make Ardmore stronger.

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

A. The use of eminent domain should be used in very limited situations. A public purpose, such as the need to build a road or railway, is the only proper use of eminent domain. Redevelopment for purposes of economics is not a public purpose. Many of the responsibilities that would lead to the need to exercise eminent domain are state and federal issues. Accordingly, Lower Merion Township should rarely, if ever, need to use the power of eminent domain. The use of eminent domain is certainly not proper in the context in which it is being considered in Ardmore.

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

A. I strongly oppose the current Ardmore Redevelopment Plan for many reasons, some of which are outlined above. In its current form, the plan will require the use of eminent domain to seize the private property of (continued)

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