Public use is no bargain

Most of the discussion of eminent domain over the last couple of years has revolved around land-grabs intended to benefit private parties. Except for such disreputable creatures as urban planners and politicians, everybody seems to be in rare accord that stealing homes and businesses so that private developers can make a mint is a bad idea. Well, bully for us.

But "pure" eminent domain takings -- seizures of land for public use -- also create winners and losers. It's sometimes easy to forget that even the proper use of the law leaves victims strewn in its wake. Such is the situation -- potentially -- of Mike Weit and Debbie Hale in Newmarket, New Hampshire. Weit and Hale wait on the outcome of a town election to learn if town officials will be granted to the money they need to nab 13 acres of prime real estate from the unwilling sellers. The town wants the land to build a $20 million high school close to other schools as part of a common campus.

The town initially offered an insulting $52,000 for the land, later raised to $400,000. Weit and Hale say they won't sell at any price.

"It's not about the money. They could add one more zero to the (offer) and they still wouldn't sell," the couple's attorney, Christopher Boldt, said.

The land has been in the family's hands for four generations and houses gravesites that date back to the Revolutionary War.

Through their attorney, Weit and Hale promise to fight in the courts for as long as it takes. They deserve praise for their resolve in a situation that would cause many people to cash the check and meekly walk away.

And town officials deserve a few choice words. You can reach those sticky-fingered thieves at: (603)659-3617 or through their Website here.