Block · one region of the page, as the scanner read it. It may hold a whole story, part of one, several, or an advertisement; stitching blocks into articles is the next step. Text is supplied OCR.
Page 5 · column 1 of 3 · from the scan, no model involved
Eminent Domain.cannot
be a local decision
The October 27 edition of the Rappahannock News reported
on a debate in Luray recently between candidates for the 15th District House of Delegates’ seat.
According to the paper, our local candidate, Jim Blubaugh, retired distinguished federal official, in reference to the recent Supreme Court decision in Kelo vs New London said: “There is a difference between us on eminent domain. The Supreme Court said it is not a federal issue and should be a local decision. That is right.” His opponent, Todd Gilbert, strongly differs.
The eminent domain issue arises from the Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution, specifically the phrase, “nor shall private property be taken for public use without just compensation.”
The first ten Amendments are known, collectively, as The Bill of Rights. They were enacted to limit the power of governments at all levels.
Why should, how could eminent domain be a “local decision?” Do we want our County Government deciding what the Rappahannock News can print? Or have it rule that only bornagain Christians can live here? Or turn one of our beautiful farms over to a developer because that would bring more tax money for the county? If one provision from the Fifth Amendment is subject to “local decision.” Why shouldn’t those from the First Amendment be?
The need to restrain the inexorable growth of governments’ power is the issue here. Mr. Gilbert clearly understands that better than Mr. Blubaugh. Gilbert deserves our support and our votes.
John L. Marocchi
Sperryville
95.5%