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Macon-Bibb commissioners vote to authorize eminent domain for multiple properties after public hearing
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Summary
After a public hearing on April 21, the Macon-Bibb County Commission approved a resolution authorizing condemnation proceedings to acquire multiple properties the county declared blighted; several property owners spoke and the commission amended a misidentified address before voting.
The Macon-Bibb County Commission voted April 21 to authorize eminent-domain proceedings to acquire a set of properties the county identified as blighted, following a public hearing that drew several property owners and stakeholders.
County Attorney Duke Groover read the resolution, which cites OCGA 22-1-1 and lists addresses across the city that the county says are blighted and pose threats to public safety and health. The resolution states the county conducted due diligence, retained independent appraisers to determine just compensation, attempted voluntary acquisition and is authorized to proceed with interim condemnation proceedings if parcels are found blighted by the Superior Court of Bibb County.
Several property owners spoke at the podium. Marquis Bridal said his nonprofit organization has invested in properties on Duncan Avenue and indicated interest in acquiring the parcels. "My nonprofit organization has invested in the properties that you guys mentioned on Duncan Avenue," he said. Groover replied that county condemnation authorization does not transfer title directly and said the county would speak with him after the hearing; he added that acquired parcels would be transferred to the land bank authority for future disposition.
Carlo Restrepo, who identified himself as the owner of 672 Franklin Street South, said he has boarded and reinforced the house and is prepared to resume repairs. "I've been working on the property, but I had to stop it due to financial situation... I'm willing to do it," he said. Nancy Bonson, the owner of 1239 Duncan Avenue, said her assessment shows foundation problems and that tearing down and rebuilding may be necessary.
During the hearing the county corrected a typographical error in the resolution: the Carling Avenue address originally listed as 1137 was amended to 1167. After the amendment, Mayor Pro Tem moved to approve the resolution and Commissioner Cook seconded; the motion carried.
County Attorney Groover invited stakeholders who wished to discuss individual parcels to meet with him after the hearing for follow-up. The commission adjourned after the vote.
What the vote does not do is immediately transfer property titles. The commission’s action authorizes the county to initiate condemnation procedures in Superior Court, where a court will determine whether parcels are blighted and then oversee valuation and acquisition steps described in the resolution.
