Mission Statement

The Office of Ombudsman for Property Rights is dedicated to assisting private property owners and public agencies in understanding and applying the law in matters concerning eminent domain and relocation assistance, including mediation. 

The Office of Ombudsman for Property Rights seeks to learn of and advise public agencies with respect to actions that have potential eminent domain implications.

The Office of Ombudsman for Property Rights seeks to communicate with the General Assembly and to make recommendations for changes to Connecticut's statutes related to eminent domain policies, powers and procedures.

Ombudsman’s Biography

Robert S. Poliner is Connecticut’s first Ombudsman for Property Rights.  He was appointed by Governor M. Jodi Rell in May of 2007 and took office June 22, 2007.  Attorney Poliner was a principal in the law firm Poliner, Poliner, Antin & Cienava Rocco, P.C. in Middletown and before that in Poliner and Poliner.  His practice was primarily focused on real estate, business and municipal law.

Attorney Poliner served as Town Counsel to the Town of Durham for over 20 years and to the Town of Middlefield for 7 years.  He chaired Durham’s Charter Commission in 1972 and two Charter Revision Commissions.  Since its adoption, Durham’s Charter has required a referendum before the town can acquire property by eminent domain.

Attorney Poliner has spoken before professional and civic groups concerning the subject of eminent domain.

Attorney Poliner holds a B.A. in Economics from Bucknell University and a J.D. from Boston University School of Law.