Development projects in which eminent domain is used must be to the benefit of the public. Sometimes that benefit is obvious, such as in the building of a waterline, school or putting up a municipal building.
Courts have determined that economic development projects are also deemed to be for public purpose, because they create jobs "” during the construction and permanent employment afterward. They also increase the tax base and spark economic activity and spin-off development that are to the benefit of the community.
Read more from the Buffalo Law Journal.