Breaking News
Our Legislators are Working for Us
I just received word from Representative Benjamin Hymes that he has submitted a bill titled, “An Act to Require Just Compensation when Eminent Domain is Declared”.
There have been a group of legislators who have been attending meetings, listening to constituents, and working to find a way to fix this problem. One of those legislators is Representative Ben Hymes. I have the pleasure of saying that he is my District’s Representative - District 38.
This bill would give property owners appropriate compensation whenever eminent domain is used. Maine statute currently does not provide a standard of compensation, and this results in property owners receiving less than satisfactory compensation.
We believe that fair and just compensation should include:
Fair Market Value
Compensation must allow the owner to purchase a comparable property in the community
Attorneys Fees
Appraisal Costs
Business Loss
Relocation Assistance
While we’d greatly prefer that no property owner would ever have to lose property rights due to eminent domain, this bill would ensure that the owner would be justly compensated.
The battle ahead for this bill is not going to be easy, but we have hope and will lend any and all support we can to get this bill through legislative council, to committee, and to the floor for a successful vote.
Please let Representative Hymes know how much you appreciate his efforts. benjamin.hymes@legislature.maine.gov