Kelo's Eviction Is Eminent

Susette Kelo may be evicted from her pink home soon, following a vote last week by New London, Conn.'s City Council. Kelo and her neighbors sparked a national debate last summer when their lawsuit against their hometown reached the Supreme Court. The homeowners claimed the city could not evoke eminent domain to seize their property and transfer ownership from one private owner to another. The City of New London is condemning Kelo's house (and others like it) to make room for a private health club, office space and other unspecified development projects. The Supreme Court outraged property owners by siding with the city. Now home and business owners must worry about being sent packing if local government decides an owner's property is better suited for bigger businesses.

The June/July issue of MyBusiness follows two small-business owners caught in eminent-domain battles keep their property. Though 47 states have introduced, considered or passed legislation reining in private-to-private eminent-domain abuse, it may be too late for Kelo. The Council's evication vote signaled Kelo's fight may soon be over--and she may be forced to move.