| Roads remain intact |
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| Written by Administrator | |
| Monday, 18 July 2005 | |
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In the case of Green Woods LLC v. Brian Kleiman, et al. Hamilton County Superior Court Judge William J. Hughes ordered the ordinance vacating the contested portions of Meridian and Davis (CR 100 S) Roads, "VACATED". This victory for the Plaintiff, Green Woods LLC, is a major achievement for the local land owner and their grass-roots supporters. Judge Hughes' order effectively prevents Eli Lilly & Co. from taking ownership of the nearly four miles of road the Hancock County Commissioners had vacated at the bequest of Lilly. When Green Woods' manager, Rosemary Huffman, was asked about their stunning achievement she was quick to credit the community of loyal supporters and their lead attorney, Marvin Mitchell, for the day's good news. "Without all the support from the community with which we've been blessed and the talents of Mr. Mitchell, the story of our roads could have faced a dead end." She continued, "Now the roads are in the hands of the people who own their destiny." It was just two years ago in May, the apparent destiny of the roads faced quite a different course. The Findings of Fact clearly demonstrate the Commissioners knowingly approved an ordinance, based on an erroneous petition, vacating the roads to the control of Eli Lilly. Added enticements from Lilly also included the legal fees for the Commissioners' defense by a veritable army of lawyers including those from at least one of the largest Indianapolis law firms. Ultimately, Judge Hughes found Lilly's petition failed to specifically describe the roads to be vacated as required by Indiana law. Clearly, today's outcome set a precedent for the power Hancock County citizens harnessed with just the right mixture of community, talent, will, diligence and a little good fortune. Huffman notes, "Judge Hughes' decision brings light and hope to our efforts and to the future of our roads." When asked about the future of their effort to "Save the Road[s]," Huffman clearly put that ball squarely in Lilly's court. "Any future challenges will be up to Lilly. Each day is a new day, and we just hope for the best." |
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| Last Updated ( Friday, 23 December 2005 ) |
