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State Representative Joe Atkins
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4192
For more information contact: Christina Gosack 651-296-5524
Press/News Releases
Condemnation: Atkins Standing Up for Homeowners and Small Businesses
The U.S. Supreme Court recently held that cities can use condemnation to force homeowners and small businesses to give up their property when officials decide it stands in the way of economic development.
State Representative Joe Atkins thinks that’s wrong. Atkins, who served as the mayor of Inver Grove Heights for 10 years, opposes the use of condemnation for economic development purposes. He never used condemnation as mayor.
“This ruling means a homeowner or small business can have their property taken away to make room for another business preferred by government," Atkins commented. “Homeowners and small business folks deserve protection from such abuse.”
Representative Atkins is working with colleagues from both parties to craft legislation that provides reasonable protections from condemnation abuse.
Atkins praised local officials in the area he represents for their restraint with respect to condemnation. “Our mayors and city council members have always been very cautious and reluctant about the use of condemnation,” Atkins said.
News Items
- Rep. Atkins, Sen. Lourey Introduce Health Insurance Exchange Legislation - (Posted: Jan 9 2013 3:44PM)
- Rep. Atkins – Statement on Deal to End NHL Lockout - (Posted: Jan 7 2013 2:05PM)
- Rep. Atkins to Hold Minnesota House Hearing on Economic Impact of Hockey Lockout - (Posted: Jan 2 2013 3:20PM)
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