Concern Over Family Farm Seizure in New Jersey

Agriculture Secretary Brook Rollins refers to the situation as a “Biden-style government acquisition.” He has assured New Jersey families that efforts will be made to protect a 175-year-old farm from local government seizure for the construction of “affordable housing” units.

Rollins indicated that the trend of seizing family farms across the nation may soon be coming to an end.

Earlier this year, a letter was sent to the family, suggesting they either accept a buyout offer or face confiscation for public use, as shared by family member Andy Henry from Cranberry, New Jersey.

Henry expressed, “My family has sacrificed this land for 175 years. Unlike other farms that have disappeared, we remain.” He mentioned this in a conversation with Agweb.

The U.S. Constitution permits the government to take property for public use, but some critics argue that its interpretation has been broadly overreached, particularly in instances where the government stands to benefit financially through increased taxes.

Henry has turned down a multi-million dollar offer for his 21-acre farm, which has witnessed a shift toward warehouses and light industrial developments. His farm is the last operational one in the area, located about 15 miles northeast of Trenton.

He took over the farm in 2012 alongside his brother Christopher and invested approximately $200,000 in its upkeep, rejecting lucrative offers from private developers, at times exceeding “$20 million.”

Speaking to the farm publication, Henry stated, “It didn’t matter how much money was offered. We preserved the farm to maintain our family’s, city’s, and state’s heritage. Our farm currently supports cattle and sheep. The town enjoys the view outside the warehouse; it reflects a piece of our legacy that we intend to preserve for future generations.”

The Township Committee approved plans to take control of the farm last month. Timothy P. Daggan, an attorney representing the family, criticized the movement, describing it as “misfit and hasty.”

According to Agweb, the state’s agenda involves constructing 265 affordable housing units, all within a community of just 4,000 residents.

In a recent announcement, Rollins mentioned that forthcoming policy shifts could potentially halt the acquisition of family farms. He stated that his department is considering legal avenues to assist the Henry family in their fight against the local government.