LACEY, NJ — The fight against the construction of a new QuickChek gas station and convenience store on the property where two historic Lacey Township buildings currently sit is ramping up with the filing of two separate lawsuits and a GoFundMe being launched to raise money for the legal battle.
The Lacey Township Zoning Board of Adjustment approved the construction of the QuickChek at 101 N. Main St. at an August meeting, though many residents voiced their disapproval. Read more: QuickChek Will Replace Historic Lacey Buildings
Now, they’re trying to bring the battle to court. Two lawsuits were filed on Oct. 18 in Ocean County Superior Court against the zoning board and 101 Main Street, LLC, the owner of the property. They were filed by different people, but both argue that approvals should not have been given and that the board in fact lacked proper jurisdiction to hold a hearing in the first place.
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This is partially due to the fact that the property has cross-access to the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch, but “the Application did not contain Ocean County’s consent to the site plan or use of its property,” one lawsuit says.
The property currently houses two historic buildings – the former community center and the Worden House. Neither of these buildings are currently in use. The county declined to take ownership of the historic buildings, which developers say have burst pipes and are filled with black mold.
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These buildings have been the topic of controversy, as some residents believed them to be important for the township’s history. Some believed that selling the community center was a violation of its original purpose. Philanthropist Charles A. Smith had left the property to the township in his will 100 years ago for the express purpose of building a community center. Read more: Residents Hope To Save Historic Building In Lacey
The property was sold last year in a bid that was voided due to a “clerical error.” However, it was then re-listed and sold on May 10, records show.
A GoFundMe titled “Join Us to Protect Forked River Landmarks” was created to help raise money for legal fees.
“The Worden House and the Charles A. Smith Memorial Community Hall are at HIGH risk of demolition,” the fundraiser reads. “Your donation will support the legal battle opposing the sale of these two historic buildings, which have been the center of Lacey’s bustling social and educational history and the center of events for generations.”
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