SCOTUS to hear eminent domain case
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case of eminent domain in New London, CT (which I’ve written about a few times):
The Supreme Court agreed yesterday to decide when governments can seize homes and businesses for economic development projects, a key question as cash-strapped cities seek ways to generate tax revenue.
At issue is the scope of the Fifth Amendment, which allows governments to take private property through eminent domain provided the owner is given “just compensation” and the land is taken for “public use.”
Susette Kelo and several other homeowners in a working-class neighborhood in New London, Conn., filed a lawsuit after city officials announced plans to raze their homes to clear the way for a riverfront hotel, health club and offices. The residents refused to budge, arguing that it was an unjustified takeover of their property.
I’m not too optimistic, given how the court has generally let the people down lately. At issue is whether or not a city can take from one private individual and give to another (which is not public use) to develop businesses.
September 29th, 2004 at 7:07 pm
You know, if these cities would get rid of their stupid social welfare programs and iodiot laws (like rent control) that limit property values (and thus property taxes), maybe they wouldn’t be so cahs strapped.
The current SCOTUS has a history of awful rulings, but they also have a history of not wanting to screw with precedent. I think this could turn out well for us.