Kaufmann to push for rail, eminent domain
“Iowa Rep. Bobby Kaufmann, R-Wilton, said the first legislation he’ll introduce at the statehouse next year is a mix of a Democrat priority — staking out funding for the train project — and a Republican priority — restrictions on government’s eminent domain power.
The proposals have only one thing in common: They appear to have relatively widespread support, but party leaders haven’t pushed the bills forward. Kaufmann and Iowa Rep. Dave Jacoby, D-Coralville, sponsored last-ditch legislation to join the two issues this year, but it didn’t receive necessary support before the end of the session.
Kaufmann said he’ll make another go at it next year, insisting it’s the only way to keep the Iowa City train project alive.
“I’m not the biggest rail supporter in the world, but I’m not against it,” Kaufmann said.
The Kaufmann-Jacoby plan has caused some tension between local lawmakers, though. In particular, Iowa Rep. Mary Mascher, D-Iowa City, has criticized the legislation from a few angles.”
Sullivan, Adam. Iowa City Press 5 July 2013.