New Hanover County Board of Commissioners rescinds decision to use eminent domain for parking spaces

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners has rescinded a decision to use eminent domain to buy a building for parking.

The motion was made by Commissioner Dane Scalise and was unanimously approved.

Cheetah Premier, a Wilmington adult entertainment club, said they weren’t contacted before a decision about eminent domain was made by New Hanover County commissioners last month.

Their building is beside the New Hanover County Government Center in Wilmington.

Jeff Melendy, Director of Operations for the club, previously told WWAY, “We gladly offer a shared parking agreement to the County providing over 70 parking spaces which will more than satisfy their suggested parking demand.”

At the December 11 meeting, the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners said they will continue exploring the voluntary purchase of the property.

Mike Barber, the attorney representing Cheetah, shared a statement that reads, “We are grateful for the leadership shown by Commissioners Scalise, Pierce, and others. Most importantly, 60 hardworking New Hanover County residents can rest a little easier that their jobs are not in immediate jeopardy. We look forward to meaningful discussions with the County Leadership in pursuit of a solution of long term mutual benefit and satisfactory to all involved.”