Helping Your Neighbor

Posted by: Kevin M. Stone in Missions on Sep 13, 2008 Print PDF

I'm sure you've heard the term "eminent domain."  It is defined as "the inherent power of the state to seize a citizen's private property, with due monetary compensation, but without the owner's consent. The property is taken either for government use or by delegation to third parties who will devote it to public or civic use or, in some cases, economic development."

It's not such a bad concept, I guess, unless it's happening to you.  There is a couple in our church that is learning firsthand how it feels to have the government take your property ... in this case for way less than "fair market value."

Check out this website ... www.helpoutyourneighbor.com
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written by Ryan, September 16, 2008
Not being a resident of the township I am unfamiliar with what may be legally possible to thwart the efforts of the Supervisors. I trust that people are exploring the possibility about placing the properties in conservancy. This would place the "Right of First Refusal" to the township if the owners chose to sell the property. Additionally, the owners would grant access to the property for a walking path. They would also receive a nice tax break.

I have often viewed the "Eminent Domain" issue similarly to "Right to Work". Both of these policies are designed to afford benefit to an institution, with some perceived benefit to a collective group. But when you are on the receiving side of the ramifications of either policy it is tremendously painful. It has everything to do with the lens in which we use to justify a particular position, or decision regardless of which side you are on.
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written by Kevin M. Stone, September 16, 2008
Ryan,

Good points.

Thanks!

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