Judge hears arguments in Charleston cruise case

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — A state judge is telling all parties to return to court Friday as he weighs whether to dismiss a lawsuit challenging the growing cruise industry in Charleston.

Circuit Judge Clifton Newman heard more than three hours of arguments Thursday on a suit brought by city residents, environmentalists and preservationists. They allege Carnival cruise ships operating out of Charleston are a public nuisance and violate city zoning and state pollution laws.

Newman will have to weigh an issue attorneys argued at length – that is whether a cruise liner should be considered a structure governed by zoning rules when tied to the dock.

Newman wants to review the arguments and said he may have more questions for attorneys. It’s unclear though whether he will rule Friday on the motion to dismiss.