More eminent domain hysteria

Here is more hysteria about eminent domain, this time in Iowa. It appears that the Iowa Legislature is on its way to making it much tougher for cities in that state to use eminent domain to condemn private property. I don't disagree with tightening the laws up where it is needed, and this is a state and local, not a federal, government matter, so at least the state level is the right place to go for this. But as you read in this article, it might do as much harm as it prevents.

You can read the article at the link below from the Des Moines Register for more information:
http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060323/NEWS05/603230401/1001/NEWS

I would suggest some kind of oversight board at the regional or state level to oversee the eminent domain process. That would remove any chance of local politics playing a part in making a wrong decision and a city or county unjustly using eminent domain to take private property. There are times where eminent domain should be used, and has been used with great success. It is a useful tool for governments to use to stimulate growth and reduce decay. It would be a shame to not let them use it anymore.