Zoning laws, "smart growth," "sustainable development" & the Constitution

[LookingForward]

Zoning laws, "smart growth," "sustainable development" & the Constitution

How are zoning laws, "smart growth" and "sustainable development" compatible with our unalienable right to own property?

On the one hand, I can see how someone opening a car wrecking yard next to a home could impinge on the homeowner's property rights/value. I can see how opening a liquor store or adult book store next to a school is a public safety issue. On the other hand, zoning laws, "smart growth" and "sustainable development" smack of bold faced socialism because they take away an owner’s property rights.

I'm having a hard time reconciling this. What did the framers of the Constitution have in mind?

 

[gls]

There's no mention of zoning laws in the Constitution because it is not a legitamite function of the Federal government. No doubt the framers believed, like just about everything else, it should be done at the state or municipal level (if at all). Local self-determination leads to competition for people and resources, which theoretically restricts abuse of property rights.

 

[LookingForward]

It seems like the government is trying to become one big "homeowner's association. Shouldn't zoning laws, "smart growth" and "sustainable development" issues be left to local homeowner's associations, where people can choose to move into or out areas of their liking?

 

[slothman]

I can see how opening a liquor store or adult book store next to a school is a public safety issue.

How is it a safety issue?
Are regular books and soda a safety issue?

 

[BenIsForRon]

It's a local government issue.

I think zoning laws should actually be stronger in many areas, I'm tired of seeing this shit everywhere I go in the country:

 

[slothman]

Well you won't see the "Linens & Things" sign as it went out of business.

 

[LookingForward]

Originally Posted by LookingForward

I can see how opening a liquor store or adult book store next to a school is a public safety issue.

slothmanwrote:
How is it a safety issue?
Are regular books and soda a safety issue?

I've read studies that have shown liquor stores and adult book stores increase the crime rate and bring down property values in the areas where they're located.

I've seen adults buying cigarettes and liquor for minors who passed by the liquor store on their way home from school.

 

[pcosmar]

Originally Posted by LookingForward

I've read studies that have shown liquor stores and adult book stores increase the crime rate and bring down property values in the areas where they're located.

I've seen adults buying cigarettes and liquor for minors who passed by the liquor store on their way home from school.

I have heard that claim made by folks opposed to these businesses, and in favor of Morality laws.
I have never seen any proof to back it up.
Care to post proof the this is the case?

We had Casinos open here. They have been a HUGE boost to the local economy, standard of living on the reservation, and surrounding communities.