In 1998, New London, CT decided to transform a residential neighborhood into a commercial district. Many homeowners agreed to sell their property to the city, however some refused. Determined to keep their homes, seven petitioners who owned 15 homes (Susette Kelo, Bill VonWinkle, Wilhelmina Dery and Family, James Guretsky, Byron Athenian, Richard Beyer, and the Cristofaro Family), sued the City of New London. Undeterred, the city used its eminent domain power and forced them out. The case ruling permitted significant expansion of government power over citizens with respect to private property rights. Over 20 years later, the land remains undeveloped. (Below: initial notice to residents from NLDC provided by landowner) The case originated in the 1990’s following closure of the naval research facility and the subsequent economic depression in New London, CT (often referred to as a blighted city). City officials in conjunction with the Governor, John Rowland, established the ...
