SB 18 is a good start at reforming eminent domain law, but needs improvement. We should ensure that property is taken only if necessary for a public use, and that owners can buy back property taken but not used in 10 years.
Michael Petrick v. City of Austin
Date Filed: July 27, 2026 Original Court: Western District of Texas, Austin Division Case Status: Active Litigation Case Summary: In August 2025, Michael Petrick purchased a home on a 0.28-acre lot in Austin, Texas, in preparation for the birth of his first child. The property contained three overgrown trees. One tree was splitting and posed...