Developer gets power of eminent domain: St Louis (MO) Post-Dispatch, 6/13/06

[Florissant MO] City officials on Monday night granted the power of eminent domain to Spirit Energy Inc., of Clayton, for a proposed development on the northeast corner of Dunn and New Florissant roads.

The developer says he believes he will not have to use the power.

Chris Kemph, president of the company, said he was in negotiations with one business owner and was optimistic those negotiations would be successful. Spirit Energy was chosen by the city to develop the commercial corner after a proposal search.

Kemph said the plan was to raze the buildings on the site, including a gas station and a vacant building, and to build a 4,000-square-foot convenience store, a gas station and a carwash. Kemph said the new commercial area would generate about $9 million in revenue, which means more sales and utility tax for the city. Final approval of the proposal could come as early as the June 26 meeting.

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St Louis Post-Dispatch: www.stltoday.com