Across the nation economic development has developed a new aura thanks in part to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Kelo v. City of New London. 
The decision affirmed a broad scope for eminent domain takings of
private property for private, economic development.  George Leef and Paul Messino told readers of The Freeman
why residents should be concerned about the future of their property
rights in light of the decision.  Leef, in tracing the gradual
shift in the Court’s stance on eminent domain, concludes
that the central planning of governments who transfer private property
in the name of economic development are redistributing wealth away from
market options that may better be more successful. Messino, while
recognizing the added power given to politicians to foster wealth,
notes that government can also use their power to prevent economic growth.  The creation of the Village of Misenheimer in Stanly County, N.C., is his case study.  In Asheville, John Hood and Chad Adams talked to local grassroots activists and Vice-Mayor Carl Mumpower about impending issues in the area, including the possible improvements to their civic center.  Adams, in a Citizen-Times guest editorial,
warned the city about the pitfalls of building a new civic center
without first seeking interest from the private sector.  Both took
their message to the airwaves on Take A Stand! with Matt Mittan, Asheville’s talk radio show.