Condemnation proceedings open v. Oconee landowner

The Central Electric Power Cooperative of South Carolina, citing its lawful right to eminent domain, has opened condemnation proceedings in the Common Pleas Court against an Oconee County property owner over a right-of-way and easement.  For what is being sought, an attorney for Central Electric Power says it is willing to pay property owner James F. Smith $48,250 for the taking, along with $23,784 for the timber to be removed.  The tender offer to Smith amounts to $72 thousand.  If the offer is rejected, according to the court filings, Central Electric reserves the right to condemn the property.  The property owner has the right to challenge the taking in a separate Common Pleas proceeding.