Imagine for a moment that the Wyandotte City Council wants to build something, say a marina on the site of the former Eureka Iron Works. There's about 20 private homes on that land, and they don't want to sell. The Council could, based on a recent Supreme Court Decision, use their condemnation powers to take that land and then sell it to a developer. Pretty scary stuff.
If you are not already aware, I'm referring to the Kelo Decision. (this was where a local government used eminent domain to take PRIVATE property and give it to a developer) Read this great post by Michele Malkin:
Now, I don't believe that the Council would do it, but look at their recent actions on land bids. They've changed awards, given people special consideration, and bought property then sold it without using the bid process. We've seen people allowed to build 6 inches from someones property line. The City is under great financial stress. What if there was one property holding up a $15 Million development that refused to sell? I'm not sure what the answer would be.
The State legislature has a bill ready to negate that decision. Check out the Michigan Municipal League site for further info.
Posted by: RichMill | 05 October 2005 at 11:23 PM
My question about this with regard to the City of Wyandotte is WHY HAVE THEY NOT USED EMINENT DOMAIN TO DEAL WITH THE THEATER? There must be much more to that story than meets the eye... I can't imagine that the city has its hands tied by whatever Mr. Palmer's whims are ... I wonder what's really up?
Posted by: Andrea Vos | 05 October 2005 at 11:43 PM
Grosse Ile tried had talked of taking control of the toll bridge by way of eminant domain. They didnt get too far.
Posted by: ray bercaw | 07 October 2005 at 07:17 PM