In a determined stand for landowner rights, Brown County takes the lead as it seeks to safeguard private property from being taken for non-public use. The South Dakota Farmers Union Board of Directors and State Policy Committee rallied behind the Board of Brown County Commissioners, urging the Governor and Lt. Governor to revise state law and eliminate the abuse of eminent domain.
The Constitution of the United States and the South Dakota State Constitution both enshrine the principle that private property cannot be taken for public use without just compensation. The absence of "private use" in these laws signals an implied prohibition on seizing land for non-public purposes.
Support for eminent domain reform has gained tremendous momentum, culminating in a recent rally in Pierre on July 6, 2023, where hundreds of citizens passionately voiced their demand for change. The event garnered around 2,000 signatures endorsing the cause, illustrating the widespread concern surrounding landowner rights.
Doug Sombke, President of the South Dakota Farmers Union, hailed the Brown County Resolution as a crucial step in safeguarding the rights of property owners. He fervently hopes that the Governor will heed the people's plea and use her executive power to protect the state's cherished landowners.
The Brown County Resolution (#27-23) sends a clear message of support for revising South Dakota law, to unequivocally eliminate the taking of private property for non-public use. It sets a powerful precedent, encouraging County Commissions throughout the state to join hands in protecting the fundamental rights of property owners.
As a private corporation tries to take away landowners' rights, Brown County stands strong as a symbol of hope for protecting property rights in South Dakota. The fight for eminent domain reform is gaining momentum, and communities across the state are ready to protect their lands for future generations.
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Categories: South Dakota, Business