Local government bodies get quick-take powers

SPRINGFIELD – A new state law gives three local governments the power to purchase property for the Curtis Road project quickly, even if the owners aren't ready to sell.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed SB 1042 on Tuesday evening, granting quick-take power to Savoy, Champaign and Champaign County. That means they can seize the land needed for the project and move forward with construction while the courts decide how much an owner should be paid for the property.

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