Proposition C: Eminent Domain Powers

Proposition C updates Section 2.08 of the Harker Heights Charter to revise how the city exercises eminent domain—the authority to take private property for public use with compensation. However, the language in this amendment leaves the city with too much unchecked power, giving reason to oppose it.

Key Concerns:

• Broad and Unchecked Authority: The amendment preserves troubling language that allows the city to condemn property “within or without the corporate limits for any municipal or public purpose, even though not specifically enumerated herein or in this charter.” This gives the city broad discretion to seize property for nearly any reason, without meaningful limits.
• Lack of Local Safeguards: The amendment could replace vague references to state law with provisions that provide local oversight. This would ensure residents understand their protections and build trust by voluntarily restricting the city’s powers rather than relying solely on state law.
• Overreach of Power: By preserving expansive eminent domain rights, the city retains the ability to take property even outside the city limits. This could lead to abuses, and without stricter limits in the charter, residents risk losing property for projects that may not serve legitimate public purposes.

Why Vote NO on Proposition C:

• Restricting Power, Not Expanding It: The language in Proposition C gives the city too much room to abuse eminent domain by allowing condemnation for vague "municipal or public purposes" not specifically listed.
• Demand Clear Limits: Voting NO sends a message that residents want stricter limits on eminent domain use. The city should not have the power to seize property so broadly—even outside city limits—without clear restrictions.

Conclusion: Vote NO to Protect Property Rights

Proposition C leaves the door open for potential overreach by the city. Residents deserve narrow, well-defined rules on when the city can use eminent domain—not ambiguous language that grants sweeping powers. By voting NO, residents can push for a revised amendment with clear restrictions on the city’s authority to seize property.

For more information, visit the official Harker Heights Election Page.