A bill to block the use of eminent domain by cities to create hiking trails, bike paths and greenways has cleared a House committee. The Idaho Statesman in Boise reports that the House Local Government Committee on Tuesday sent the bill, SB 1044,  to the full House where it's expected to pass. The Idaho Senate approved the bill last month. Republican Sen. Jim Guthrie of McCammon sponsored the bill and says eminent domain gives cities too much power. Backers of the bill say greenbelts are nice but not essential like roads. Opponents say greenways make cities more livable, provide alternative transportation routes and reduce the number of vehicles on roads. Eminent domain is the ability of government to seize land for roads or projects and pay market value to the owner/Betsy Russell, Eye on Boise. More here.

Question: All 5 North Idaho senators backed this bill. Frankly, I see the value of using eminent domain to create hiking trails, bike paths and greenways. How about you?