Comment on Woodstock OKs eminent domain for properties near proposed roundabout

The Woodstock City Council has agreed to move forward with eminent domain proceedings in an effort to acquire land needed for a roundabout project. The construction project is proposed to take place at the five-way intersection of Lake, Madison and South streets. The city has to take control of six parcels in the area to make way for construction. Woodstock entered into “good faith” negotiations with the property owners, but the two sides have yet to come to an agreement for several parcels, according to city documents. Negotiations have stalled with the owners of 219 Madison St., a piece of property that is three-hundredths of an acre, plus a 0.017-acre area that temporarily would be used for easement before being returned to the owner after construction. The other area set for eminent domain is 311 Lake St., formerly the site of Hunt’s Service Station, which is out of business. The two lots with the same common address are a total of 0.036 acres.