Feds: No eminent domain in Paint Rock Wildlife Refuge
“Keith Springs Mountain residents in Franklin County have aired their opposition to the proposed Paint Rock River National Wildlife Refuge, largely based on an eminent domain threat, but the federal government says in writing it won’t be taking that approach.
Franklin County Mayor Richard Stewart has received a letter from Cynthia K. Dohner, the Fish and Wildlife Service’s regional director, saying that land added to the refuge would be “from willing sellers only.”
“This is in agreement with what the county wanted,” Stewart said, referring to a resolution the county commission had unanimously approved in April, stating no citizen should be forced to sell property through condemnation. “At least we have that in writing, and we hope that gives the people up there (on Keith Springs Mountain) some comfort.”
The proposal, including land next to the Walls of Jericho preserved nature area, calls for a 63-square-mile section in a 40,505-acre partnership with 25,120 acres to be obtained through protected easements and purchases from landowners”
Justice, Brian. Tullahoma News 22 October 2013.