Homeowner Speaks Out Against Highlands

From the Express Times:

Highlands Act takes property's value

The Highlands Act is effectively confiscating the value of my property, and I strenuously object. The sanctity of private property is a cherished American principle. It is at the heart of the famous "American Dream" -- the house, the home -- unquestionably owned and controlled by the family which has earned it, paid for it and protected it. The concept of private property is so universally held by Americans that those unfamiliar with the Highlands Act (because they have not been affected by it) are incredulous when they hear about it. People find it impossible to believe they have lost the rights to their private property. I in no way accept a limitation on my property (67 acres, two historic houses and barn) which would prohibit me from building a new house on open acres. I bought the property in 1964, in full faith that once I had paid for it, I actually owned it. The Highlands Act clearly discriminates against landowners. Many of its "rules" are so extreme as to be ludicrous. If I refuse to allow a DEP representative to enter my property, I can be fined $10,000? Surely, I'm dreaming. The fact that the Highlands Act takes 370 pages to explain itself indicates how scattershot its aim. Its many prohibitions and penalties appear random, disproportionate, capricious. I believe a strong legal case can be and will eventually be made against it. I respectfully urge New Jerseyans to consider its potential for damage and to do all within their power to have it reconsidered. I shall do all within my power to overturn it and, of course, it will be a significant issue when I next vote.