City closer to eminent domain settlement
“St. Joseph continues its eminent domain efforts for a waste water pumping station, a public park and access to utilities on the east side of the city.
St. Joseph has been seeking eminent domain against 15 businesses and 16 individuals, who own property where the city wants to build.
Tuesday, Paul Schepers, an attorney with Orrick and Erskine, based in Overland Park, Kan., presented the city’s case providing proof that the city has eminent domain powers in any part of Buchanan County. The attorney showed the city has a public project, did hire a qualified Missouri appraiser and offered compensation to the parties. All but two owners have come to agreements with the city.
Buchanan County Circuit Judge Dan Kellogg, the fourth circuit judge to hear the case, has agreed to appoint three commissioners to accept all settlements and review what should be the only remaining question about compensation.”
News Press Now 26 November 2013.