Independent artist Edward “Gonzo” Stross this week criticized the Roseville City Council as “evil” and “shady” for authorizing the city’s use of eminent domain to temporarily take some of his sidewalk property.

At issue was the council voting to file a lawsuit in Macomb County Circuit Court under the Uniform Condemnation Procedures to secure a temporary easement for the sidewalk on the side of the Gonzo Art Studio for a streetscape project.

City leaders say the lawsuit is needed for the sidewalk improvements as Stross is the only property owner along Gratiot Avenue who won’t sign off on granting an easement for the upcoming city enhancements.

“That sounds fraudulent,” the artist said during the public comment section of the Tuesday’s council meeting. “You want to say you own (the proper

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