Roseville to pry land from owners

North Metro Insider Sarah McCann, Star Tribune The Roseville City Council voted 3-2 last week to approve using eminent domain to acquire four commercial properties needed for the Twin Lakes redevelopment project. The mixed-use development includes housing, retail and office space. Developer Rottlund Companies, which owns most of the land, has been trying to buy the properties but hasn't come to an agreement with some owners. The council vote approving eminent domain could result in more serious negotiations, as eminent domain procedures can be costly and time-consuming for all parties involved. If the property owners don't agree to sell, the city could file for eminent domain in court as early as January. Although many local government officials say they use eminent domain as a last resort, a U.S. Supreme Court decision last summer said it was OK for cities to use eminent domain for economic development http://www.startribune.com/142/story/144702.html