Condemnation not appropriate way to preserve farms

IIn November 1999, Howell Township voted on preserving open space and farmland by passing the open space referendum.

Those of us on the Farmers Advisory Committee were very pleased that this referendum had passed, indicating to us that the people of Howell were concerned with saving what little farmland and open space we have left.

Currently our local farm stands are brimming with fresh vegetables and fruit, as well as bedding plants and shrubs. Remember, "Please support our local farms."

In January a question was asked by our mayor as to whether we could use state funds earmarked for farm preservation to purchase parcels by eminent domain.

The definition of eminent domain is: the inherent right of a state to force a property owner to sell his property when it is needed for public use or good. Public improvements involving eminent domain include the construction of harbors, canals and roads. Land may also be taken over this way for public schools, asylums, municipal buildings and housing projects. Also, eminent domain can be used for railroads and power plants.

Our committee did not feel at that time, nor do we feel now, that there are any farms in Howell that meet the above criteria. We have voiced our objections.

The purpose of the state and county Farmland Preservation Program is to keep our valuable and dwindling farmland in operation. This program has always been a voluntary one. Most of the farms in Howell are family farms, which in essence is the farmer’s retirement fund.

No one, be he a farmer or someone in any other line of work, would want his retirement fund tampered with. The taking of farms by eminent domain will only discourage farming in Howell, not encourage it, possibly causing farmers to sell to the highest bidder as soon as possible.

The purpose of the referendum passed in November was to save farms and open space by purchasing development rights, not condemn them.

Eminent domain (condemnation) would set a dangerous precedent that would allow the township to take any farmland it deems fit, including viable operating family farms.

It is the purpose of our committee to inform and clarify to the public our position on this and other issues, which we will be addressing in future letters.

Elizabeth Crombie

Chairwoman

Farmers Advisory Committee

Howell