Caroline County Overreach: Eminent Domain Threatens Family Farms and Property Rights

Caroline County officials voted unanimously to seize 11 acres from fifth-generation farmer Cory Garrett through eminent domain for a Rappahannock River water intake. This decision prioritizes government expansion over longstanding property rights and family legacies in rural Virginia.

The Board of Supervisors, including Chair Jeff Black, Clay Forehand, Floyd Thomas, Jeff Sili, and Nancy Long, approved the condemnation after Garrett rejected a $78,400 offer. Supervisors argued the project addresses water needs for growing areas like Ladysmith and Carmel Church, citing two decades of planning and state agency approvals.

Property Rights Under Assault

Conservative principles emphasize protecting private property as a cornerstone of American liberty and self-reliance. Taking land from a family that has held it for generations undermines these values and sets a dangerous precedent for future government actions.

Garrett purchased the 143-acre farm in 2020 to preserve his family's heritage, receiving a prior conservation easement payment of $643,000. Residents and neighboring county officials decried the move as tyrannical, highlighting how such seizures erode trust in local governance.

Supervisors noted the site's ideal river bend location for water access but ignored widespread public input against the plan. This approach favors bureaucratic solutions over respecting individual landowners who contribute to community stability.

Water Needs Versus Family Legacy

The county seeks to withdraw millions of gallons daily from the Rappahannock, claiming groundwater regulations force a shift to surface water. Officials stressed the necessity after exploring other options like partnerships with neighboring localities proved unfeasible.

Garrett expressed willingness to cooperate if the water primarily served residents rather than potential industrial users. He questioned the project's focus on commercial development, which could burden taxpayers while benefiting select businesses.

Board members countered that supporting economic growth reduces resident tax loads and addresses hard water issues in western areas. Yet the emphasis on long-term projections overlooks immediate harms to working farms that sustain local economies.

Judicial and Public Pushback

A later court ruling upheld the eminent domain action, affirming water supply as a public use under state law. The judge found no evidence of arbitrary action by the county despite arguments over timing and notice procedures.

Opposition from tribes and environmental concerns about the Mattaponi River persist in related cases. These challenges underscore the risks of rushing projects that impact shared natural resources without broader consensus.

https://www.fredericksburgfreepress.com/2024/06/19/we-cant-make-water-caroline-moves-forward-with-plan-to-withdraw-from-the-rappahannock/

Email the Caroline County Board/Council:
Floyd Thomas, fthomas@co.caroline.va.us,
Jeffery Sili, jsili@co.caroline.va.us,
Jeffrey Black, jblack@co.caroline.va.us,
Clayton Forehand, cforehand@co.caroline.va.us,
Nancy Long, nlong@co.caroline.va.us,
Reginald Underwood, rlunderwood@co.caroline.va.us,