(Nov. 19, 2009) — The Lyndhurst Board of Commissioners, and specifically Mayor Richard DiLascio, handled an intense and troubling situation with a great deal of grace and humility this past week.

The problem started with a resolution from several weeks ago that enabled the planning board to begin an investigation into potential areas in need of redevelopment in Lyndhurst.

It’s a touchy subject, as this type of investigation carries the implication that property owners have poorly managed their lots or buildings. And, by law, municipalities can take drastic measures to improve the situation — up to and including taking the lots from their owners (known as eminent domain).

Unfortunately, a typo in the resolution resulted in several perfectly lovely homes on Lake Avenue being included on the list of possibly blighted properties.

On Nov. 11, those residents, as well as owners of commercial buildings, came out in force to find out what the township was up to.

DiLascio promptly offered an apology, an explanation and a way out.

He assured everyone that eminent domain takings are not a part of the board’s playbook, and he said that anyone who didn’t want to be included in the planning board’s study could have their lots removed from consideration.

The evening showcased the power of open government, democracy and responsible citizenship — with a nod toward the role local newspapers play in informing people of decisions that affect them.

Hats off to the people who spent their Tuesday interacting with the board of commissioners about their wants and needs. And, hats off to DiLascio for his responsiveness to those same wants and needs.