You and your partners own a building in what was once a thriving business district. Over time, the surrounding area has become largely vacant, except for your building and a nearby motel. The City has recently passed an ordinance amending the zoning code to establish a ðecial Revitalization District!nd your building sits squarely in the center of it. The purpose behind the Special District is to spur or incentivize new economic development and eliminate vacant buildings.

The City gives you two options 1) agree to comply with the new code requirements and completely renovate your building, inside and out, at your own expense or 2) the City will exercise Eminent Domain, pay you Fair Market Value – far less than you think is warranted – and you vacate the property.

Your partners have called a meeting to determine next steps. Option 1 enovating will be expensive and require navigating a complex permitting process to comply with the new zoning. Option 2 acating will be expensive as you must relocate to another building.

Your partners ask you to prepare a briefing for the meeting and want to know the options available. Are there any legal options? Think about some of the cases covered in class and give your partners your best advice.