Speak up about eminent domain issue

To the editor:

As landowners, we are concerned about private property rights following the U.S. Supreme Court decision last June allowing local government to condemn private property through eminent domain strictly for economic-development purposes.

Eminent domain has its place as a tool to meet legitimate public needs. However, the Supreme Court allowed the taking of private property to allow other private development that would bring in more tax revenue. This is plain wrong.

Farmers have been concerned with eminent domain abuse for some time. Now our urban neighbors also have reason to be concerned. Their property is just as vulnerable as farm and ranch acreage to meet the whims of those holding the power of eminent domain.

The Supreme Court decision was outrageous, but at least the decision allows states to place limitation on eminent domain use. In Missouri, we have an opportunity this year to finally achieve eminent domain reform in the General Assembly.

Property owners, both large and small, must speak out by contacting their state representatives and senators right away. The General Assembly is in session now, and it has a lot on its plate. It's time for property owners to become the squeaky wheel.

TONY JOHNSON, President, Scott County Farm Bureau, Benton

ELMER KOENIG, President, Cape Girardeau County Farm Bureau, Jackson