The Greensboro City Council had a work session earlier this week. John Hammer reports in the Rhino:
The council also discussed the legislative agenda and had a lot of 3-to-4 votes. Since two councilmembers were missing, those votes could change when the legislative agenda is brought before the City Council for a formal vote.
Hammer is referring to the legislative agenda the Greensboro City Council might have for the state legislature in Raleigh.
One of the items discussed was eminent domain. Because of the United States Supreme Court's Kelo decision, state and local government are not prohibited from using eminent domain powers for economic development. The prospect of government taking private property for this purpose offends the sensibilities of many citizens. It is just not right, and directly contrary to the traditional American concept of property rights. (I also cannot help but believe it is contrary to the previous, widely held understanding of the Takings Clause of the U.S. Constitution).
It was discussed whether the city of Greensboro would make a recommendation or request to our state legislators on this matter. The scuttlebutt is that Councilman Zack Matheny, who ostensibly is a Republican, did not want to recommend that the state limit use of eminent domain powers for economic development. There was apparently some concern that it might not be good for the city of Greensboro.
Property rights is a major issue for conservatives. If Matheny truly supports government taking private property for economic development, I hope he will reconsider.
"If Matheny truly supports government taking private property for economic development, I hope he will reconsider."
He will do what his handlers want him to do. I don't expect the MELDERAC con Simkins cabal to support anyone's rights but those they think they're entitled to possess.
Posted by: bubba | January 27, 2011 at 05:24 PM