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Commission authorizes city attorney to begin eminent-domain lawsuits for final FAMU Way segment
Summary
The commission approved two resolutions authorizing the city attorney to initiate eminent-domain litigation to acquire two privately owned parcels needed to complete FAMU Way Phase 4; staff said negotiations stalled because a lienholder would not cooperate.
TALLAHASSEE — The City Commission on May 14 authorized the city attorney to begin eminent-domain litigation to acquire two privately held parcels needed to complete the last segment of FAMU Way Phase 4.
City Attorney's Office staff explained the resolutions would allow the city to file suits to acquire real property owned by Loft Real Estate Holdings number 2 LLC (Parcel 256, 1320 South Monroe Street) and Loft Real Estate Holdings LLC (Parcel 258, FAMU Way). The office told commissioners staff had negotiated with property owners for roughly 18 months but encountered a third-party lienholder on a portion of the property that would not cooperate.
"The only way around that is to initiate the eminent-domain process," City Real Estate/Attorney staff told the commission. Commissioners asked for clarification, and staff confirmed the proceedings would seek just compensation and that the city would use eminent-domain only after attempting negotiated acquisition.
Commissioners voted 4-0 to adopt the resolutions and direct the city attorney to pursue the legal process. The action authorizes staff to file lawsuits as necessary; no takings or valuation occurred at the meeting. Commissioners said they supported completing FAMU Way Phase 4 to finish planned roadway improvements for the FAMU Way corridor.
Staff said the formal legal authorization will allow the city to move forward to secure property interests necessary for construction and that city attorneys will return with appropriate filings and timelines as litigation proceeds.
