Florida Eminent Domain Blog | Gregory W. Stoner

Pfizer has announced that it will close its New London research facility, the site that was the cause of the eminent domain case that became Kelo v. New London. An Institute for Justice attorney who argued the case in favor of the homeowners said the announcement "demonstrates the folly of government plans that involve massive corporate welfare and that abuse eminent domain for private development." He also noted that if changing business conditions are to blame, it "is all the more reason why taxpayer dollars should not be put at risk in speculative and risky development schemes."

One thing people often neglect in considering these types of projects is the fundamental character of the two types of tenants opposed. On the one hand, the current owners of homes and businesses in a condemned area are generally local entrepreneurs and homeowners. They are generally loyal and can often be counted on to continue giving to the community for many years. One of the residents lived in a home that had been bought by her family more than 100 years before. She was born in the house and wanted to live out the rest of her days there. Overall, two-thirds of the properties at issue in Kelo v. New London were occupied by their owners or family members of the owners.

On the other hand, you have a multinational corporation that has no real loyalty to the area. They are here for the money and will only stay as long as they don't have a better offer. In many cases, corporations get more than they give, and the incentives a community uses to bring them represent a net loss for the people of the area.

If your home or business is being threatened by eminent domain, stand up for yourself and your community with an eminent domain lawsuit. The lawyers at the Florida Property Rights Law Firm, PA can help you protect your property or make sure you get full compensation. Please call or email us today for a consultation.