Farmers Blast Eminent Domain Laws

The process under which land can be gained for public projects has come under fire. Some people are not happy about the use of eminent domain laws in the state. State Senator Sarah Steelman of Rolla understands the needs for the laws that allow some government and private entities to acquire over certain portions of lands for projects for the greater good, such as roads and power lines. AmerenUE, the state’s largest utility, is in the middle of a dispute with some land owners in Central Missouri over proposed power lines. Company Spokesman Mike Cleary says Ameren follows the same procedures throughout the state for acquiring property or right-of-way.