City of Bellingham v. Eiford Construction Co.

In December of 1970, the City of Bellingham commenced an action to acquire appellant’s real property by condemnation for the construction of a sewage treatment plant. The trial on damages began October 26, 1971, before a jury, and a verdict was rendered fixing the amount of just compensation on November 5,1971.

There is no dispute as to the facts with respect to the right of the appellant condemnee to be awarded reasonable attorney fees and reasonable expert witness fees. However, prior to entry of the judgment and award, but subsequent to the commencement of this action, the legislature…