Coy Koontz, Jr., receives Crystal Eagle Award in New Orleans

Coy Koontz, Jr., received the Crystal Eagle Award today from Owners Counsel of America, an organization of distinguished eminent domain attorneys who specialize in representing landowners throughout the nation.  Presented by PLF’s Robert Thomas from Hawaii and myself at OCA’s annual meeting in New Orleans, Coy received his award for his perseverance and courage in standing up for his property rights — traits that led to last year’s Supreme Court victory.  The only person missing was Coy Koontz, Sr., who passed away in 2000 after beginning the family’s challenge to the actions of the St. Johns Water Management District in 1994.  What makes the Koontz story so special is that instead of giving in to the District’s unconstitutional demands that he pay up to $150,000 to fix district property — after agreeing to to give away 11 acres — Coy Koontz Sr., decided to fight instead.  Our constitutional rights would not be worth the parchment they were written on if citizens were not willing to stand up and fight.  Coy Koontz Jr., is a fighter, carrying on the work begun by his father nearly 20 years ago.  The Crystal Eagle Award is a well-deserved tribute.