Eminent domain shouldn’t be used by private investors

A few days ago, I watched a NOVA program on permafrost and methane. It was extremely interesting and extremely alarming. It again made it clear that we humans must change our methods and ways, that we must take action to prevent an uncontrollable disaster through climate change.

I want to thank Republican state Sen. Jeff Taylor for his initiative in introducing a bill, SF 260. The bill speaks to the basic issue of eminent domain. Eminent domain should and can only be imposed when a project would benefit the public, the entire community and not just private investors. The Iowa Utilities Board must not grant eminent domain to the three private pipelines proposed to cross Iowa.

They would cross 90 waterways, 24 watersheds, the proposed expansion of he tall grass prairie, Brushy Creek and Prairie Rail Trail, to name some of the impacted land and waterways.

The companies claim it to be a win-win situation for farmers and all Iowans. This it is not. The CO2 pipelines are hazardous and a danger for all in its vicinity. And the use of eminent domain would damage private land and seriously harm land owners.

Renata Sack

Waterloo