It was worth trying. They were using a new type of concrete capable of surviving higher temps. It tested fine under lower thrust levels. The next step was to try it at full thrust and see if it would survive. If it worked, it would have saved them a ton of money in the long run. It didn't work, but nobody was hurt, and the resultant damage was well within their ability to handle, so what exactly is your problem? As for the "village", its a small smattering of buildings, most of which are owned by SpaceX. They attempted to buy out all of the residents exactly because of the " danger close" aspect of it, but some of the residents refused to sell, which is their right. Are you suggesting that SpaceX should have had the government seize the buildings using eminent domain laws?