Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Use topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves ordinances to begin eminent domain for LAX modernization projects
Summary
The council adopted ordinances approving resolutions of necessity to allow eminent domain proceedings for properties needed by Los Angeles World Airports for two separate LAX projects—the Airfield Terminal Modernization Project (ATMP) and the Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP).
The Los Angeles City Council on July 1 approved ordinances authorizing the commencement of eminent domain proceedings for property interests required by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) for two LAX modernization efforts: the Airfield Terminal Modernization Project (ATMP) and the Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP).
Mark Adams, LAWA director of government affairs, gave an oral presentation outlining the need for property interests for both projects and said voluntary negotiations and written offers with appraisal summaries were made to property owners but had not produced agreements. LAWA staff said eminent domain is a last resort after unsuccessful voluntary acquisition efforts. The council’s adopted ordinances approve resolutions of necessity and make the factual findings required to proceed with condemnation if necessary; adoption requires a two‑thirds vote.
The clerk noted the council received letters from Allen Matkins, the law firm representing the affected property owners, which were made part of the record. No property owners or representatives appeared at the hearing to speak. After the public hearing record was closed, the council voted; the clerk recorded 14 ayes for the pair of items. Council members were reminded the ordinances do not set compensation amounts and that settlements may still be reached through negotiation; adoption only authorizes LAWA to pursue the next legal steps if private agreements cannot be secured.
The ordinances apply specifically to the parcels identified in the agenda materials for the ATMP (airfield/terminal) and LAMP (landsidetransportation) projects; LAWA said the acquisitions will support the projects’ design and construction schedules. LAWA also stressed continued efforts to negotiate; adoption of the resolutions of necessity preserves LAWA’s legal options while staff continues outreach and negotiation.
