Edison, NJ – The Edison Township Council has abandoned its controversial plan to purchase the Jade Dynasty restaurant on Amboy Avenue for $5 million, a move that had raised eyebrows due to the property’s listed sale price of $2.2 million and the involvement of Councilman Joseph Coyle as the listing agent.
The proposed purchase, initially earmarked for conversion into a community center, was part of a $29.8 million capital improvement bond ordinance that was mysteriously pulled from the agenda before the council’s May 8 meeting.
The decision to scrap the purchase comes after intense scrutiny from residents and fellow council members. At a recent meeting, resident Joel Bassoff and Council President Nishith Patel directly questioned the administration’s plans for the Jade Dynasty site. Business Administrator Sonia Alves-Viveiros confirmed that there were no longer any plans to acquire the property.
The situation has raised serious concerns about potential conflicts of interest involving Councilman Coyle. His dual roles as the listing agent for the property and a member of the council responsible for approving the purchase have sparked outrage among residents.
The controversy surrounding the Jade Dynasty property is part of a larger debate over development along Amboy Avenue.Clara Barton residents have been vocal in their opposition to high-density projects, calling for the preservation of the neighborhood’s character.
During the meeting, Coyle, who also serves as executive director of the Edison Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the need to consider the interests of business owners alongside those of residents. His comment, “When people want to spend $15 million in your community, you have to listen,” has further fueled speculation about his motives and potential conflicts of interest.
The abrupt cancellation of the Jade Dynasty purchase leaves many questions unanswered. Residents are demanding transparency from the council and a thorough investigation into the matter. The future of the property remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the controversy has exposed deep divisions within the community and raised serious ethical questions about the conduct of its elected officials.
