City Council Approves Plan To Seize Properties In Point Breeze
By Mike Dunn
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - A long-running battle between residents of the city's Point Breeze section and developers culminated with City Council approval of a plan to seize dozens of properties.
Up for a final vote was a plan by the Redevelopment Authority to seize by eminent domain about two dozen properties in Point Breeze, most of which are owned by tax delinquents and are currently vacant.
Private developers like Ori Feibush objected. "This city has not figured out a way to maintain or build on the thousands of lots it already owns, and yet you want to take more."
But longtime residents like Patricia Wyatt spoke in support of the plan, and lashed out at the private developers. "The developers come from different states, they come in to make purchases, and they're only here for the money."
In the end council gave unanimous approval to the plan. The RDA wants to develop the parcels into new housing for lower income families. The measure now goes to the mayor, whose approval is expected.
