Dear Source,
Good. Finally. Ms. (Andrea) King is placing blame where it is deserved, not on the property owner, but rather with the government. See Vessup Beach Activist: Turnbull Shunned People's Will.
I was beginning to think that this was no longer America and property rights, within the confines of zoning and regulatory processes, were becoming extinct. However, King's desire to saveVessup seems to overshadow any desire to save Lindquist. Curious.
Here's the upshot. Here in America we have property rights and are generally free to do as we choose with our property, save as set forth above. If you want to "Save Vessup," fine. Pay full fair market value for the property (17 acres?) under the eminent domain laws, and I'll bet $1 million that it isn't $3 million. I'll also bet Lindquist is worth way more than A.G. Stridiron claims. I'll also bet such assertions sorta, kinda, depend on who owns it.
I forcefully agree that a V.I. parks system should be organized. I don't necessarily want to see any further development. I also believe that the government should be actively acquiring these "properties of interest."
However, get in line. The attempt to steal Lindquist from its title owners for less than market value came first. Don't believe for a minute anyone is going to take a huge financial hit without it costing the V.I. taxpayers millions in litigation fees and expense.
The V.I. government has proven its willingness to fight losing battles at the taxpayer's expense. Would you let someone take your property from you at a loss, knowing that it could be sold for millions more Ms. King? No.
Go about this the right way. This is America. How would you feel if the government decided to take all the houses on the hill overlooking Vessup? Is your house in there?
Do you want them telling you what your property is worth and "taking" it based on "their" valuation? Statements like "the People's Will" when it comes to property takings is reminiscent of other forms of government halfway around the world, but not ours.
Kevin Weatherbee
St. Thomas
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