Trojan Horse or Overdue Reform? Eminent Domain, Prop 90, and the Future of Land Use in California

Fri Oct 20, 2006

Next month, voters will decide the fate of Prop 90, a measure that some say, if passed, could be the biggest thing to hit California land-use since Prop 13. Prop 90’s sponsors have branded it the "Protect Our Homes Act" as it would limit governments' ability to take private property and regulate private use, but it goes far beyond eminent domain. Opponents note that Prop 90’s provisions to re-define "just compensation" could shut down redevelopment as we know it and make planning actions to downzone or height-restrict properties very costly for local governments.

In anticipation of this crucial vote and Prop 90’s relationship to the timeless debate over the merits and drawbacks of eminent domain, the Westside Urban Forum is pleased to present a discussion of what Prop 90 could mean for property owners, redevelopment agencies, planning departments and communities throughout California — including the Westside.

Panelists:

Barbara Blinderman, Moskowitz, Brestoff, Winston & Blinderman; attorney to former L.A. Councilman Ernani Bernardi in his successful suit against the L.A. CRA; eminent domain reform advocate
Amy Forbes, Partner, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher; former board president, L.A. Conservancy
Don Spivack, Deputy Chief of Operations, Los Angeles Community Redevelopment Agency

Moderator:

Xandra Kayden, Los Angeles League of Women Voters; Sr. Fellow, UCLA School of Public Affairs