GRIMES CO. OFFICIALS WANT PROOF OF ‘EMINENT DOMAIN’

  

The Grimes County Commissioners Court is demanding proof of eminent domain authority from high-speed rail developers before constructing a rail line over county roads.

State Sen. Charles Schwertner says similar draft ordinances are already circulating among half a dozen counties that could be impacted by Texas Central Railway's proposed high-speed rail line connecting Dallas and Houston.

Grimes County Judge Ben Leman said the private rail company has been using "bully tactics" on Grimes County landowners, initiating lawsuits against 30 people so far and threatening to sue others if they don't turn over parts of their properties.

Leman said Texas Central hasn't provided any proof it has authority to enforce eminent domain, and he says it's because they don’t.

Leman said it's common for companies to show legal proof of eminent domain authority when it gets in contact with landowners.  He said Texas Central hasn't shown anything, and argues the company doesn't fit the Texas legal requirements of a railroad company and can't enforce eminent domain.

Texas Central has not commented on Leman’s accusations.

Both sides are expected to seek clarification from the state regarding eminent domain and the regulation of high-speed rail when the Texas Legislature reconvenes in January.