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Property Keyed to Saxer
Ely v. City Council of Ames
Facts
Laurel and Mildred Ely (Plaintiffs) owned a commercial tire and automotive service center in Ames, Iowa. The property adjacent to the service center was designated a “historical landmark” by the City Council of Ames (Defendant). The 1920’s historical home was well known for advancing the integration effort of African-Americans into the Ames community. Plaintiffs alleged that the home had fallen into disrepair and decreased the commercial value of nearby properties, including Plaintiffs’ business. Plaintiffs filed a petition challenging Defendant’s designation and asserted claims of violations of due process and equal protection and illegal spot zoning. At a bench trial, the district court upheld the designation. The Iowa Court of Appeals granted certiorari to review.
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