UPDATE: A judge has just dismissed a critical lawsuit aimed at stopping the construction of a new government center in James City County. On Thursday, November 16, 2023, Judge Jan Brodie ruled that the county’s bond agreement with the Economic Development Authority, valued at over $75 million, was not eligible for appeal after the initial 30-day period post-approval.
This ruling paves the way for the ambitious $189 million government center project to proceed at 5231 Longhill Road. The center, alongside a $25 million library annex, is crucial for accommodating James City County’s growing population and escalating demands on local government services.
The lawsuit was initiated by seven residents back in November, who argued that taxpayers should have a say in projects that incur long-term debt. Their request for an emergency injunction to halt the project was denied. Following the decision, attorney Christopher Woodfin expressed disappointment but acknowledged the court’s authority.
One of the plaintiffs, Charles Colgrove, emphasized the importance of community involvement in fiscal decisions, stating that citizens deserve a voice in how public funds are allocated. “This project impacts everyone in our community,” he noted.
The new government center is seen as a necessary replacement for the existing facilities, which are scattered across multiple buildings on Mounts Bay Road. County officials have been contemplating this project since 2020 after studies indicated the current setup no longer meets the operational needs of a rapidly growing population.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the plaintiffs will pursue an appeal. Observers are closely watching for further developments in this significant local issue that could reshape the county’s governance landscape.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds. Share your thoughts and reactions on social media!
