A reader commented on my “Drainfields of Dreams” earlier today quoting me and then saying “AHA so we who were subject to HB 572 of 2005 were not dreaming !!! Wow!!! I guess we’ll have to retire our tin foil hats.”
HB 572, another progressive, property-rights violating piece of political-subdivision subterfuge would have granted regional water districts the right of eminent domain. Originally introduced into the Committee on Resources, Recreation and Development (where it most likely have been a slam-dunk), it got sent to the Committee on Municipal and County Government where it got a 16-0 vote to ITL.
Writing for the committee, former Representative Stephen Prichard says: “While it might make it easier for a water district to acquire land for wells and watersheds, it would also make it possible to take over a private well or even a local water company without much accountability….And while it is more difficult for a water district to go through the municipal process of convincing the town leader and residents through hearings, studies and finally votes to take the necessary property…that process does provide constraints on possible abuse and better assures property owners rights and voters preferences will be respected. “