In this video, Landowner Rights Attorney Philip Hundl provides an alert on Targ’s Grand Prix Speedway Pipeline Project. If you’re impacted by this or any other pipeline project, you should get the help of a knowledgeable lawyer to guide you through the condemnation process. Call Philip at 800-266-4870 or text the office at 979-320-9320. Our offices are in Wharton County and we help landowners all over Texas.
Summary of Targa’s Grand Prix Speedway Pipeline Alert Video
- Targa’s Speedway Project is Underway: Landowners may receive letters from Targa or its agents about survey work for a new 30-inch NGL pipeline—without formally requesting permission.
- Review the Included Maps and Bill of Rights: The letters contain an aerial map showing the proposed pipeline route across your property, along with the Landowner Bill of Rights—both of which are critical to understand.
- Know Your Rights Before Responding: Conversations with right-of-way agents can cause confusion—especially about court costs. It’s important to speak with an experienced eminent domain attorney before allowing survey access.
Introduction
As Targa’s Grand Prix Pipeline project, commonly referred to as the Speedway project, progresses, it’s crucial for landowners to grasp the implications of survey permissions and their rights. This post aims to shed light on the nuances of the survey requests that affected landowners might receive and their legal ramifications.
Project Overview: The Speedway Pipeline
Targa’s project, which includes a 30-inch diameter natural gas liquids (NGL) pipeline, is moving forward under the names Grand Prix or Speedway. If you’re an affected landowner, you might have recently received a notification reflecting this project. Understanding these communications is vital as they hold key information about how the pipeline could impact your land.
Survey Notifications vs. Permission Requests
One of the main concerns is the manner in which Targa and their agents are notifying landowners about surveys. Instead of politely requesting permission, notifications are being sent as a heads-up about planned survey activities. The law, however, necessitates obtaining landowners’ consent before conducting surveys. Many landowners have not granted such permission, raising questions and potential legal challenges.
Legal Recourse for Landowners
In cases where survey permission is not granted, companies often turn to legal means such as temporary injunctions. However, traditionally, the first step involves seeking survey permission, not merely notifying. This distinction is significant and has caused understandable irritation among landowners.
Understanding Your Landowner Rights
Key in these notifications is the attached Landowner Bill of Rights, meant to clarify the landowner’s rights in condemnation proceedings. Sometimes, the language used by right-of-way agents may lead to misconceptions. For instance, it’s commonly misunderstood that if a case goes to trial, the landowner may be liable for the company’s legal fees. In reality, costs refer mainly to filing fees or court reporter costs, not attorney’s fees.
Financial Implications of Legal Proceedings
The law states that if a trial verdict is less than the initial offer, the landowner might need to cover some costs, but not exorbitant legal fees. This is a crucial point for landowners to understand, as misinterpretation can cause unnecessary fear and anxiety about financial burdens.
Seeking Legal Guidance on Survey Consents
It’s always advisable for landowners to consult with an attorney specializing in eminent domain and condemnation cases. Understanding the full scope of survey activities and their potential impact is vital. Furthermore, when granting survey consent, it’s usually wise to limit access strictly to ensure minimal disruption and exposure.
Conclusion
For landowners involved in Targa’s Grand Prix Speedway project, awareness, and understanding of these legal and procedural nuances are essential. Stay informed, consult professionals when needed, and ensure that your property rights are respected throughout this complex process. Good luck to all those navigating these developments.
Get the Help You Need Now
Start protecting your rights as a landowner by calling 800-266-4870, texting 979-320-9320, or clicking this link for a no-obligation consultation with Land Rights Law Attorney Philip Hundl.
Call 800-266-4870 or text 979-320-9320 for an appointment. We can also arrange for online and telephone appointments all over Texas.