On the web since 1997
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On the web since 1997 |
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Kelo vs. City of New LondonLee Presser / -- The U.S. Supreme Court chose not to second guess the City of New London, Connecticut, in its recent Eminent Domain case, Kelo vs. City of New London (Conn.). In its decision, the Court wrote, “Those who govern the City were not confronted with the need to remove blight in the Fort Trumbull area, but their determination that the area was sufficiently distressed to justify a program of economic rejuvenation is entitled to our deference.In short, the Court has said that duly elected officials in New London have voted to rejuvenate the Fort Trumbull area. The City’s rejuvenation plan is within the meaning of the state statutes for Municipal Development Projects. To put their plan into action “... the City has invoked a state statute that specifically authorizes the use of eminent domain to promote economic development.” The general misunderstanding of the Court’s holding (that your property can be taken willy-nilly) can be traced to media reports. How many who filed stories about this decision actually read any of the decision? How many only read the Syllabus (executive summary)? How many news outlets relied in part or in whole on research and writing done by other news organizations? There is another meaning of the Court’s decision. One which is yet to be seen in print. If citizens elect people to a City Council or County Council and those they’ve elected choose to use existing state statutes to take your property legally, don’t go crying to the courts. Citizens get the government they deserve. The use of eminent domain starts with you. Who you choose as your candidate for office, who the community elects to office, will be in a position to use the legal power you gave them. So, before the next election cycle, find a neighbor you trust. Organize the others in your neighborhood and follow through on Election Day. Lee A. Presser |
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