May 2, 2008

Video Presentations: Fresno Chamber Opposes Propositions 98 and 99 on the June 2008 Ballot

The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Council voted to oppose Proposition 98 and Proposition 99, two controversial ballot propositions regarding eminent domain that will appear on the June ballot.

 

The Chamber heard testimony from both supporters and opponents of Propositions 98 and 99, and realizes that these are complex issues that are critically important to the Central Valley and to California as a whole. We support clear and constructive solutions and will continue to oppose ambiguous language and divisive tactics that do not move us any closer to sound policy.
 

Proposition 98

 

Proposition 98 takes a solid approach at limiting the government’s ability to invoke the use of eminent domain, but the Chamber believes this measure goes too far. While Proposition 98 has the potential to be great reform, ambiguous language written into the ballot proposition threatens the future building of needed infrastructure of water storage in the state of California. Proposition 98 would increase the likelihood of eminent domain battles ending up in long, drawn out legal battles, which help no one. For these reasons and others the Fresno Chamber opposes Proposition 98.

 

Kiran Black, Manager, Political Affairs, Farm PAC

Proposition 99

 

The Fresno Chamber also opposes Proposition 99 because it does not protect the rights of business owners. Proposition 99 only protects the rights of homeowners, falling shy of the real eminent domain reform that is needed in California. The Chamber would urge all players to put forth positive solutions to the eminent domain debate and to come to the table to get important reforms accomplished.

 

 

Hilary Baird, Public Affairs Manager, League of California Cities

 

Contact Kerri Ginis, the Chamber's Government Affairs Manager for more information at (559) 495-4818 or kginis@fresnochamber.com