I've been pondering the two propositions on next week's ballot. At this point, unless I get new information in the next few days, I'm going to vote no on both Proposition 98 and 99. As I understand it, both purport to be about Eminent Domain Reform. In general, I support the idea of reforming eminent domain. I don't believe governments should be able to take property from one taxpayer and give it to another simply because it will improve their tax base.

My problem with Proposition 98 is the other things that it does. It eliminates rent control. While I'm not a particular fan of rent control, if someone wants to create an initiative to get rid of it, they shouldn't hide that change in a proposition that many voters think is about something else, like eminent domain.

My problem with Proposition 99 is that it is too narrow. As I understand it, the change it makes only affects single family residences. Since I believe the biggest problems with eminent domain are associated with commercial property, I don't believe this proposition will make much of a difference.

For that reason, I'm planning to vote no on both of them. If you have reasons why I should vote yes for one of them, please post a comment and let me know.