Mills: Pipelines are public use

I posted an article last month about an eminent domain case pending in the courtroom of White County Circuit Judge Bill Mills. At issue was whether a natural gas company attempting to lay pipeline which will eventually connect with a transmission line used to take the gas to market is a "common carrier." If so, the company has the authority to petition for an easement across private property. If not, then the use would be deemed to be for private purpose and therefore in violation of Arkansas law.

Judge Mills ruled that "the gathering of this natural gas for shipment to pipelines carrying gas to other states is a public use." Several other pending cases on the same issue will be heard on Oct. 7. An appeal is expected. Here's more from the Searcy Daily Citizen.