(a) The policy of the provisions of this chapter pertaining to eminent domain is to ensure that eminent domain is used for a limited, defined public use. Public use does not include the generation of public revenues, increase in tax base, tax revenues, employment or economic health, through private land owners or economic development.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, neither this State nor any political subdivision thereof nor any other condemning agency, including an agency as defined in § 9501(b) of this title, shall use eminent domain other than for a public use, as defined in subsection (c) of this section.
(c) The term “public use” shall only mean:
(1) The possession, occupation, or utilization of land by the general public or by public agencies;
(2) The use of land for the creation or functioning of public utilities, electric cooperatives, or common carriers, or
(3) Where the exercise of eminent domain:
a. 1. Removes a “blighted area” as defined at § 4501(3) of Title 31, or a “slum area”, as defined at § 4501(23) of Title 31;
2. Removes a structure that is beyond repair or unfit for human habitation or use; or
3. Is used to acquire abandoned real property; and
b. Eliminates a direct threat to public health and safety caused by or related to the real property in its current condition.
(d) Whenever real property is condemned and will be used, including owned, occupied or developed by a private party, the State or agency thereof or a political subdivision must establish by clear and convincing evidence that the use of eminent domain complies with the definition of “public use” in subsection (c) of this section.
(e) No written notice or correspondence shall be sent to property owners from the State, an agency or a political subdivision communicating to the property owner that the real property is subject to eminent domain without the State, an agency, or a political subdivision first notifying the property owner in writing of the public use as defined in subsection (c) of this section and as required by § 9505(15) of this title.
77 Del. Laws, c. 12, § 1.
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