[Winona Online Democracy]
One of the new opportunities that I see in the eminent domain decision is for cities to covert park lands, municipal golf courses or dedicated land trusts into affordable residential housing. The eminent domain rule, would not be necessary for land already under control the of a city and would enable that land to be replaced or exchanged thus re-arraigning growth trends or planning decisions of past councils. A council could strip out of a downtown all architecture that failed to fit the design year theme of the look they are trying to achieve. My point is that eminent domain powers when expanded beyond public utilities is a slippery slope. It can cut both ways including the removal of non revenue or low revenue producing things like parks and golf courses. It can be used to eliminate a revenue producing business to build a higher revenue producing enterprise or to turn a waterfront park or commercial property into condominiums or playgrounds for the rich. (Lake City) The need to expand the boundaries of a city is based on the fact that it is easier to extend public utilities, destroy open space and farm land than to convert parks, islands and golf courses. Someday, someone or a court may cost out the difference and come to a different conclusion. Paul Double _______________________________________________ This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy All messages must be signed by the senders actual name. No commercial solicitations are allowed on this list. To manage your subscription or view the message archives, please visit http://mapnp.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/winona Any problems or suggestions can be directed to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] If you want help on how to contact elected officials, go to the Contact page at http://www.winonaonlinedemocracy.org
