James Island residents vote to create town

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Residents of James Island have again voted to incorporate as a town.

But it’s not clear if the city of Charleston will allow the vote to go unchallenged.

Results of Tuesday’s voting show 85 percent of those casting ballots approved of setting up a town.

Three previous attempts have rejected after challenges by the city of Charleston.

Officials plan to open filing for town elections May 21, with voting planned July 31.

Charleston Mayor Joe Riley says the city has not decided whether to challenge the latest incorporation vote. But he says the city will challenge the incorporation if there is anything improper about the latest vote. Riley says he wants to protect James Island residents who would prefer to be part of Charleston.