Protect land from eminent domain

To the editor:

I completely agree with Lynda Waddington's May 17 column 'Eminent domain bill deserves fair hearing.”

Eminent domain should never be used for private gain, especially when it comes to the proposed Bakken Pipeline. Not only is this boondoggle not a public utility, there are no tangible benefits for Iowans.

From inflated economic benefit projections to false claims of energy independence and freeing up rail transport, this project has little to offer in terms of guarantees to Iowans. However, it does pose serious, long lasting risks to our water, land and soil. Eminent domain can be used to benefit the public in some instances. This is not one of those! This project needs more scrutiny and review than will be given by the three hand-picked appointees of the governor.

House Study 249 and Senate File 506 will provide strict requirements and stronger review and accountability. Waddington's absolutely right. Iowans need maximum protections when it comes to eminent domain. These bills will help ensure that such protections are put into place. They need a full and fair hearing before the legislature ends.

Tom Mohan

Cedar Rapids