2 years on, debate continues over SC cruises

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — It’s been two years since the year-round cruise industry in Charleston was established, and the arguments over the industry continue unabated.

The Carnival Fantasy was permanently based in Charleston in 2010.

The debate has brought conflicting economic reports and a lawsuit. Opponents of the industry worry about pollution, traffic and noise. Supporters say cruises create jobs, pours millions into the economy and the number of ships calling is appropriate for the scale of the city.

That lawsuit challenging the industry has gone to the state Supreme Court.

The clerk’s office says the justices will likely take up a request to dismiss the case in a conference. If the case proceeds, a circuit judge may be named as a special referee to hear evidence and report back to the justices.