Orange rejects “pitiful” County offer to buy reservoir for restaurant and boathouse. Warns against use of eminent domain to seize property.

Mayor Eldridge Hawkins, Jr. and Orange officials today turned down a request by Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo, Jr. to purchase the Orange Reservoir for construction of a restaurant and boathouse. Hawkins said that Orange would be willing to discuss a lease for the scenic and historic property, but that a sale is out of the question and against the interests of the people of Orange. He warned that Essex County risks a legal battle with Orange if it seeks to take the land through eminent domain.

Statement by Mayor Eldridge Hawkins, Jr.
“We were advised by County Executive Joe DiVincenzo this week that Essex County is not interested in leasing our former reservoir but wants to immediately purchase the property for approximately $700,000. This pitiful offer is not acceptable for land that West Orange Township has valued at approximately $2.1 million based on its assessment. The larger issue is that our reservoir is simply not for sale. Neither the citizens of Orange, nor myself, nor a majority of our City Council are prepared to discard such an important property. While located in West Orange, the reservoir and the land surrounding it is a scenic, historic, and financially valuable part of the heritage of our community. To sell the reservoir as a one shot gimmick to help balance our budget is akin to an impoverished family throwing its furniture into the fireplace to gain a single day’s heat.

We are open to entering into a fair long-term lease with the County that would preserve the ability of Orange taxpayers to benefit financially from the property and preserve our rights of ownership. Unfortunately, the County has informed us that it is not presently interested in negotiating a lease.  They have informed us that if we do not sell them the property, they will take our land through eminent domain.

It would not be wise for Essex County to enter into a prolonged legal battle with the people of Orange over a restaurant and boathouse or water access. Over a year ago, Orange informed Mr. DiVincenzo that the County is already illegally using our reservoir land without permission for a carnival train to the County-owned Turtle Back Zoo. (see attached letter) We asked for a written response that might enable our city to receive compensation for use of our property, but have still not received an answer. If this issue is not resolved, we will be forced to consider litigation.

We are prepared at any time to meet with County officials to discuss a lease for the Reservoir property as well as compensation for the County’s past and ongoing use of our land.”

Statement by City Attorney Marvin Braker
“The County can expect ferocious opposition from the City’s legal defense team"

Statement by Councilman Rayfield Morton
“I and a majority of the Orange City Council are against selling our reservoir to Essex County. The beautiful lake holds a special place in the hearts of Orange residents. It’s a valuable asset for our city. It’s where we hold our annual senior picnic. It’s where generations of Orange residents have gone to hike and fish.  It would be a win-win situation for the County to lease the land. Our taxpayers would get ongoing income to help hold down taxes and the people of Essex County would get to enjoy our unique and irreplaceable water and open space.”