I know that the city has the right. However, I am asking that you carefully read my post and look at the maps. I am telling you that the city is doing something unethical and illogical, and possibly corrupt and illegal due to the fact that they are eliminating the Councilwoman’s input and they haven’t notified all the homeowners along this road. If you don’t feel that you want to stand up against the corrupt government, whatever. I just hope someone cares enough to add their voice to mine that this is wrong.
Are there other homeowners as concerned as you? There is power in numbers and even if they are from different districts you need to organize them into an effective voice and see if you can get local media coverage.
Don't cut corners or pick somebody out of the yellow pages. Get a real live referral and make sure he's got no conflicts with the city.
The lawyer will know (1) if the city is up to something crooked; (2) if the city is on the up and up, how to get top dollar for your land. They will try to lowball you.
That is what cities do. Cities are for the most part the worst run portions of Government. Sorry about you issue. Hold out for your appraised value but DO NOT hold out so long a judge condemns you property then they probably do not have to give you anything.