§ 40A-25. Answer to petition; hearing; commissioners appointed. - North Carolina Statutes

§40A‑25.  Answer to petition; hearing; commissioners appointed.

On presenting such petition tothe clerk of superior court, with proof of service of a copy thereof, and ofthe summons, all or any of the persons whose estates or interests are to beaffected by the proceedings may answer such petition and show cause againstgranting the prayer of the same. The clerk shall hear the proofs andallegations of the parties, and if no sufficient cause is shown againstgranting the prayer of the petition, shall make an order for the appointment ofthree commissioners and shall fix the time and place for the first meeting ofthe commissioners. Each commissioner shall be a resident of the county whereinthe property being condemned lies who has no right, title, or interest in or tothe property condemned, is not related within the third degree to the owner orto the spouse of the owner, is not an officer, employee or agent of thecondemnor, and is disinterested in the rights of the parties in every  way. (1871‑2,c. 138, s. 15; Code, s. 1945; Rev., s. 2584; C.S., s. 1720; 1981, c. 919, s.1.)