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Committee authorizes condemnation proceedings if necessary for University Boulevard East project
Summary
The committee approved a resolution authorizing the city to initiate eminent domain (condemnation) proceedings if property acquisitions for the University Boulevard East improvement project cannot be completed by negotiation; funding and the list of specific parcels will be addressed in separate resolutions.
A Tuscaloosa City committee approved a resolution authorizing condemnation and other proceedings necessary to acquire properties needed for the University Boulevard East improvement project if voluntary acquisition efforts fail.
Staff told the committee they are “actively acquiring properties for the University Boulevard East project, but there will become a time when we may not be so successful,” and said the resolution would allow the city to initiate eminent domain proceedings if negotiations are unsuccessful.
Meeting discussion clarified that the resolution does not itself specify which parcels would be taken or the payment amounts. Staff said any required payment of funds would be addressed in a separate resolution authorizing payment into probate court. The meeting record states market value on condemnation cases is determined by three independent commissioners appointed by the probate judge.
A motion to approve the resolution was moved and seconded and approved by voice vote.
The committee provided authority to proceed with condemnation only as a contingency; specific property descriptions and funding authorization will return to the council in later actions if condemnation becomes necessary.
