Panel set up to represent SC wades into court

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The commission tasked with representing South Carolina’s interests when it comes to dredging the Savannah River has taken on a higher profile as it wades into several legal disputes over the $650 million project.

The Savannah River Maritime Commission was set up in 2007 as part of legislators’ response to a lawsuit over a proposed port in Jasper County. That lawsuit was ultimately dismissed, but the panel stayed intact and is empowered to negotiate and enter into agreements on South Carolina’s behalf.

The commission’s 12 appointed members range from the chairmen of various legislative committees to a designee from the governor. It’s currently involved in proceedings in South Carolina’s Administrative Law Court and Supreme Court and recently also waded into a federal case over permitting for the project.