Chase v. City of Tacoma

Melvin E. Chase commenced this action as an inverse condemnation action for damages. At trial the cause was submitted to the jury to determine damages resulting to Chase's property from past floodings and just compensation for the taking of a pipeline easement by the City of Tacoma (City) to construct and maintain twin 72-inch underground pipelines on the land. The jury awarded $62,520 for the damages caused by the past flooding and $22,500 for the taking of the easement, and the City appeals.

The property consists of a 25.16-acre undeveloped site which was part of a 98-acre parcel purchased…