Today the Supreme Court validated the worst fears of SaveArdmoreCoalition by ruling local governments can seize people's homes and businesses - against their will - for private economic development. SaveArdmoreCoalition has been covering this issue, informing us just what is at risk, for a long time now.
...Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who has been a key swing vote on many cases before the court, issued a stinging dissent. She argued that cities should not have unlimited authority to uproot families, even if they are provided compensation, simply to accommodate wealthy developers.
The lower courts had been divided on the issue, with many allowing a taking only if it eliminates blight.
"Any property may now be taken for the benefit of another private party, but the fallout from this decision will not be random," O'Connor wrote. "The beneficiaries are likely to be those citizens with disproportionate influence and power in the political process, including large corporations and development firms."
She was joined in her opinion by Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist, as well as Justices Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas.
Meanwhile, in other Consitution shreding news, the House approves flag-burning amendment.
Update: SaveArdmoreCoalition has more here.
Our homes/businesses are still our castles- it ain't over yet!
Note to those disappointed after reading: it ain't over 'til it's over. This DOESN'T mean that community groups should give up their fights to save their communities. The fact that this vote and decision is SO close should be taken as a positive: it's not a done deal that local government can just roll on up and say they want your property. The U.S. Supreme Court decision means they will have to REALLY prove a need to do so. Here in Ardmore, we will merely double our efforts to save our businesses and historic buildings. This decision from the U.S. Supreme Court is a battle won ONLY, not the war. March on Soldiers against Injustice - our day WILL come! See our blog entry created just as our friend Karl was creating his. Thanks Karl!!!!!
www.SaveArdmoreCoalition.ORG
saveardmore@AOL.com
"Fight Eminent Domain Abuse. It doesn't discriminate. Today it's Ardmore, tomorrow, your town or neighborhood"
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