Video Story
Watch VideoMonument widow questions eminent domain
Story By: Bill Folsom
Source: KOAA
Recently she learned plans are in the works to extend Mitchell Avenue out of Monument south to Baptist Road. Under consideration is using eminent domain to go through the center of Ward’s property. She says, "It will cut me off from two thirds to three quarter of my property.”
Ward and several of her neighbors question the use of eminent domain by Monument city leaders. She believes that she’s paying the price for developers, pointing to a subdivision that could soon be approved right next to her property. Ward argues, “It's going to benefit the subdivider (sic) and it's not going on his land and take up room that would be other houses.”
"It's a very difficult situation,” according to Monument Mayor Byron Glen, “We have to outweigh the need of the populace over the need of the individual.” He tells a different scenario, explaining a second access route on the city's west side is necessary to, "provide safety, particularly fire safety, emergency services and just transportation mobility." The route through Ward’s property is also being considered over others because it would cost half. This route would cost just over four million dollars, while other options top eight and nine million dollars
The road project is years away, but at the next Monument City Council meeting there will be a vote to approve the subdivision. While the Mayor calls them separate issues, Ward believes a yes for the subdivision makes the road going through her property the likely plan. She says, “They’re eliminating all the options”. Monument Council meets Monday nights.
