Public hearing about eminent domain at Watertown International Airport proves contentious
“Watertown attorney Roscoe A. Eisenhauer Jr., who stands to lose 84 acres of his land, objected to what he characterized as ever-changing demands from the county to purchase or secure easements on his property. He questioned Shawn R. Bray, airport engineering manager for Passero Associates, Rochester, and submitted letters and blueprints in case the matter goes to state Supreme Court.
The county’s proposals went from 30 to 60 to more than 80 acres in a span of five years, according to Mr. Eisenhauer.
“What they do and how much they take is going to directly impact my house and my way of life,” Mr. Eisenhauer said after the hearing.
Jefferson County officials were at somewhat of a loss to respond.
“We’ve been in discussion with him with many different scenarios, including what’s being discussed now,” said attorney Joseph W. Russell, who is acting as special counsel to Jefferson County.”
Flatley, Daniel. Watertown Daily Times 6 December 2013.