Jerry Jones had homes condemned under eminent domain so he could build Cowboy stadium. People were forced out of their homesteads. I think there was a court case in the northeast (maybe Supreme Court) that said eminent domain is no longer used only by government entities, but private parties can as well. The rationale is increased tax revenue, which would also apply to a pipeline.

As a rule, pipeline companies seeking right of ways treat surface owners right. They know the value of good blood between people and how it makes everybody lives much easier. But some people are stubborn no matter what.

Some court will have to decide the big picture cost/benefits of crossing this guys land. I bet in the end when the money gets big enough, he will cave.

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