As the Congressional debate rages over reauthorization of the Endangered Species Act, both property rights advocates and environmental activists agree that the key to balancing species protection with landowner rights is through the implementation of market-based incentives to preserve and create habitat.
Historic Preservation Commissions Tread on Property Rights
John Mark Slack wanted to restore his historic San Marcos home for livability. But San Marcos’ Historic Preservation Commission demanded that in order to get a Certificate of Appropriateness—its stamp of approval—he must replace the roof, siding and doors; broaden the front porch, and add skirting to their specifications. But commissioners didn’t stop there. In...