Judge Upholds James Island’s Right To Exist

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) - A state judge has upheld the incorporation of the Town of James Island, ruling in a suit brought by the city of Charleston which twice before forced the town to dissolve.

James Island Mayor Mary Clark told The Post and Courier of Charleston she is “on cloud nine” after seeing Circuit Court Judge Cordell Maddox’s ruling.

But Charleston plans to appeal. Mayor Joe Riley says public policy favors not duplicating services and large sections of the island are already in the Charleston limits.

Charleston was successful in getting James Island incorporations tossed in 1992 and in 2004.

Island residents voted again to incorporate two years ago and Charleston again sued, saying the law allowing it was unconstitutional special legislation.

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