Kelo Endgame
By Jim Lynch on Jun 6, 2006 in Politics, SCOTUS
The City Council of New London, Connecticut has acted on the worst Supreme Court decision in recent history, taking it to it’s logic-defying conclusion and voting to evict the last two homeowners.
The City Council voted 5-2 in favor of eviction Monday. An attorney for the residents said they are considering continuing to fight.
“You are a disgrace to the city, the state and the nation,” one of the residents, Michael Cristofaro, told council members who voted to evict.
The city has been trying for a decade to redevelop the once-vibrant neighborhood at the point where the Thames River joins the sea. Seven homeowners challenged the city’s plans to seize the property and build a hotel, convention center and upscale condominiums, saying eminent domain can’t be used to make way for private development.
Every time I read about this story I struggle to understand how this makes any sense at all. It’s just wrong in so many ways. I was shocked by the SCOTUS decision, outraged by the actions of the council, and scared by the number of people who don’t see this as a problem.
At least one council member gets it.
However, Charles Frink, one of the two council members who voted against the plan, said supporters should admit their mistake.
“I can’t accept a possible reduction in taxes by having neighbors thrown out of their property,” he said. “This is morally abhorrent to me. I refuse to profit from my neighbor’s pain.”
And let’s not forget, as it happened to the residents of New London, it could happen to you.
UPDATE: Thanks to Michelle for the link, and for pointing to this detailed post at BizzyBlog.
Sphere: Related ContentTags: Kelo, New-London, SCOTUS








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