NJ files eminent domain against Margate

MARGATE, N.J. (WPVI) -- The Christie administration went to court Thursday to seize 87 publicly-owned beach plots in Margate to be used for a protective dune system.

Last week, Gov. Chris Christie called residents of Margate "among the most selfish people in the state of New Jersey for refusing to allow the dunes to be built."

The eminent domain action would allow dune projects to move forward.

The administration claims Margate's stonewalling threatens neighboring Longport and Ventnor, as well.

Margate said its wooden bulkheads are enough to protect against coastal flooding.

Ten private lots still need to be acquired in Margate.

Those were not part of the initial court action.