The Johnston Town Council voted unanimously Thursday to reauthorize Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr.’s bid to seize land originally slated for affordable housing development, despite mounting legal challenges that could cost taxpayers tens of thousands.

In what critics describe as a blatant attempt to block desperately needed low-income housing, council members approved the use of eminent domain for a proposed public safety complex on George Waterman Road land owned by the Santora family. The town has offered just $750,000 for the property, which real estate experts suggest is worth several million dollars.

The vote represents the second attempt to claim the property after a lawsuit forced officials to restart the process. The Santora family had sued the town in March, arguing Johnston failed to properly disclose the intended use of their land.

All five council members—Linda L. Folcarelli, Lauren Garzone, Alfred T. Carnevale, Robert V. Russo, and Robert J. Civetti—backed the measure without discussion. Each had previously supported the initial seizure attempt.

Mayor Polisena Jr. has made opposition to affordable housing initiatives a hallmark of his administration. He has testified against low-income housing bills at the State House, arguing they would burden town resources and alter Johnston’s character.

While the town and the developer have agreed to dismiss the original lawsuit challenging the purpose for the eminent domain claim, a federal case continues. Legal experts predict Johnston faces an uphill battle that could result in the town forgoing the property and racking up substantial legal fees.

“The requirements for eminent domain are clear,” explained a Rhode Island property attorney not involved in the case. “The government must prove both public necessity and fair compensation. Johnston appears vulnerable on both counts.”

Council members who supported the measure:

• Linda L. Folcarelli: councildist1folcarelli@gmail.com
• Lauren Garzone: garzonedistrict2@gmail.com
• Alfred T. Carnevale: johnstondistrict3@gmail.com
• Robert V. Russo: rvrlaw@aol.com
• Robert J. Civetti: civettidistrict5@cox.net

The Rhode Island housing crisis continues to worsen, with affordable units in short supply across the state. The Santora property would have helped address this shortage, according to housing advocates. When local governments actively block affordable housing, they’re making policy choices about who can and cannot live in their communities.

For Johnston taxpayers, the council’s decision carries financial risk. If the federal lawsuit succeeds, as many legal observers expect, residents could face higher taxes to cover accumulated legal expenses.

The next hearing in the federal case is scheduled for later this month, though a final resolution could take years. Meanwhile, both the land and potential affordable housing units remain in limbo.