Seattle paving a parking lot to put up … a different parking lot
“Eminent domain is a government tool that only very rarely should be used. It is so powerful; such an incursion on individual and property rights; and so seldom used to truly improve a community.
We have a case in the city of Lebanon that, as much as possible, demonstrates the correct use of eminent domain. About three dozen properties on Partridge Street were greatly affected by the construction of the railroad bridges on Ninth and 10th streets.
There was an opportunity and a need for the city to rethink the area, which it did, determining that the vicinity would be better served as a light-industrial development area than its previous high-density residential. Roughly three dozen properties were affected. All but three parcels involving two landowners were negotiated without eminent domain. The remaining properties are involved in proceedings related to eminent domain, but it appears everything will be done to the reasonable satisfaction of those involved.
Reasonable and fair urban redevelopment; a nod of respect to Lebanon.”
Lebanon Daily News 30 October 2013.