Kevin_Kennedy
Defend Liberty
- Aug 27, 2008
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So you do not support the XL pipeline taking land?
Same difference they have eternal access accross your land anytime they want and you cannot build on/use that land and you still pay taxes on it.
That is a close call. Is the XL pipeline a public use? Is there a reasonable alternative option for the pipeline? Are they asking for the land, or a right of way across the land?
I would accept that the XL pipeline is a public service, no different that any other public utility. States commonly designate right of ways for electric transmission lines, sewer lines, water lines, gas lines, etc.
I oppose the government taking property because another owner will contribute more taxes to the government. But, the supreme court, in their superior wisdom, disagrees.
The key is that the original landholder must be fairly compensated, and every effort must be made to avoid the condemnation of the land.
However this is one of the allowed powers under the US consitution, and most state constitutions.
"nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation"
What is "just" or "fair" compensation? If I don't want to give up my land then they can take it and give me what they think is "fair," but it's not fair if both sides don't agree.