Carlos Ray wants to get paid before he's forced to move out of his barbershop's building.
About a year ago, Ray learned that the Texas Department of Transportation planned to buy his land to make way for construction on Loop 9, which will connect Interstate 35E and Interstate 45 in northern Ellis County.
“I understand it’s for the better good of the public,” Ray said. “But at the same time, do not put me out of my building without paying me for it.”
So far Ray has not received a penny.
Eventually he’ll receive two checks. One for his land and another for relocating Ray's Barber Shop & Beauty Salon.
TxDOT already paid him for his land, but that money is tied up in court. There are ongoing disputes on how to divide the funds among parties with ties to the property.
Ray won't receive the relocation money until he moves his business.
TxDOT officials say they've done their part, because they have paid for the property. They say it’s out of their hands while it is in the possession of the courts.
As the disputes continue, TxDOT has given Ray several extensions to remain in his barbershop. Ray received a final extension Wednesday, allowing him to stay until the end of July.
Ray claims the legal disputes have nothing to do with him, because the dispute is over a billboard on the property.
He just wants to get paid for his land.
“This is America where they sell dreams. And when you try to get your piece of the pie that you never own anything but the clothes on your back,” Ray said.
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