Final answer:
A city can terminate leases and condemn buildings with tenants under the power of eminent domain if it meets the criteria of 'public use', a term that has been broadly interpreted to include economic development that benefits the community.
Step-by-step explanation:
Can a city terminate the leases of buildings with tenants if they are going to condemn it? This is a question that pertains to the use of eminent domain, a legal concept where a government can take private property for public use, provided that fair compensation is paid. The case of Kelo v. City of New London expanded the interpretation of public use to include economic development projects that benefit the community. After the Kelo decision, many feared local governments had too much power to seize private property. As a response, several states tightened restrictions on eminent domain usage, and legislation such as the Private Property Rights Protection Act arose to protect private property owners.
Traditionally, eminent domain was used for public projects such as transportation infrastructure; however, recent cases demonstrate its application to private redevelopment, often stirring controversy. In some scenarios, municipalities may argue that the economic benefits of redeveloping a decrepit or under-utilized area justify the condemnation of properties with existing tenants. Lease termination would likely follow this process, as the government asserts its authority to pursue a perceived public benefit.