Letter to the Editor: Urges support for Question 1 on ballot

By Community Member | November 1, 2012 11:00 am

On Nov. 6, Virginians will have the opportunity to vote on an amendment to Virginia’s constitution to permanently protect your private property rights. Hopefully, that vote will be a resounding “Yes.”

If a majority of Virginia voters approve the proposed amendment (Question 1), then the state constitution will be changed to incorporate new language and rein in eminent domain abuse. The changes would go into effect Jan. 1, 2013.

By voting yes, you will be making sure that:
• Private property may be taken for a true “public use” only, and not taken and then given to another private landowner.
• In the unfortunate circumstances where your property is taken by eminent domain, you will be correctly paid for the loss of value to your property.
• No more of your property may be taken than that which is absolutely necessary.

We’re fortunate to have a General Assembly that recognizes the need to put the fundamental right of private property into our state Constitution. While it received bipartisan support in two consecutive sessions, the ultimate decision will be made by Virginia’s voters.

Opponents of the amendment have said Virginia’s constitution already provides protection against eminent domain abuse, but we don’t believe it currently goes far enough. The amendment would tighten the state’s definition of public use, which at the moment is left to the discretion of the General Assembly.

It will also make sure that if your farm, your home, or your business is taken by a legitimate use of eminent domain, you are paid just compensation.

It’s time that Virginia recognizes that you need to be paid for what your land and livelihood are worth.

If you own property—or aspire to own property—I hope you will make time on Nov. 6 to protect your rights. It’s been a long campaign to get the proposed amendment on this year’s ballot, but the fight’s not over until officials tally the votes.

Make yours count.

H. Jackson Darst
President, Charles City-James
City-New Kent-York Farm Bureau