Asked over 4 years ago - Federal Way, WA
FlagPG&E wan ts to buy an 10 - 100 ft. easement to relocate a high voltage power line due to a city road improvement project. We were already forced to sell the land to the city ( below cost ) that they wanted and would prefer not to give up any more. Can the city step in on PG&E"s side and force us to sell the easement? The reason that I ask is because this city of Federal Way is known to be willing to do anything it takes to get what they want. I always wondered why they didnt build any straight roads here, but I now realize that no city official would be able to walk or drive down them if they did!!!
Even worse, the utility has eminent domain powers in Washington...so, they can just take your property themselves. If you force them to they will just start the same process the city uses...but, you should be able to get at least the fair market value of the land. Some agencies allow a small sum to hire an attorney to help protect your rights (though the agency really only does it to protect themselves from liability).
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