A continuation of the already long drawn-out drama in our downtown heart, ratchets up to a stronger chorus.
Building owner vows a stand on K Street
As City Council prepares an eminent domain vote, Mohanna isn't retreating.
By Mary Lynne Vellinga - mlvellinga@sacbee.com
Published 12:00 am PST Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Moe Mohanna said he doesn't intend to speak today when the Sacramento City Council decides whether to use eminent domain to force him to sell his properties in the 700 block of K Street.
That doesn't mean he will go quietly, however.
Standing in the space he recently fixed up for the Texas Mexican restaurant off K Street, Mohanna said he'll fight to the end. "When the sheriff comes, I will be chained to that door with my family and daughters, and they'll have to drag me out of here," he said.
Mohanna, who has owned property downtown since the 1970s, has become a celebrity as his fight with the city drags on.
The city has portrayed Mohanna as the biggest obstacle to redevelopment of a particularly bleak stretch of K Street. Mohanna, in turn, has positioned himself as a champion of small, locally owned businesses against big developers funded by city subsidies.
The conflict between Mohanna and the city is headed for a 2 p.m. showdown when the City Council votes whether to authorize use of eminent domain.
