Eminent Domain Controversy in Missouri

SOURCE www.foxnews.com
Small business owners in a Missouri town are suing the city over attempts to use eminent domain to seize their properties for a development deal. The city declared the area blighted based on minor complaints like cracks in paint, sparking a legal battle.

Key Points

  • City officials in Brentwood, Missouri, declared a stretch of Manchester Road blighted to seize properties for a development deal
  • Institute for Justice argues the city used minor complaints to justify blight designation
  • Legal battle reminiscent of the 2005 Supreme Court case Kelo v. New London

Pros

  • Legal battle sheds light on misuse of eminent domain
  • Raises awareness about property rights

Cons

  • Potential loss of property for small business owners
  • Controversy over vague definition of blight