Judge throws out lawsuit seeking referendum on new government center

A judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by seven James City County residents seeking a referendum on the construction of a new $189 million government center and $25 million library annex. The lawsuit argued the county lacked the authority to incur long-term debt without voter approval, referencing a $75 million bond agreement from October 2024. Judge Jan L. Brodie ruled that the bond agreement did not necessitate a referendum and that the period for contesting the bond’s approval had passed. County supervisors clarified that referendums are only required when financing projects with general obligation bonds, which they are not using for this project.

Construction is already underway at 5231 Longhill Road, and an emergency injunction to halt the project was previously denied. While disappointed with the decision, the plaintiffs’ attorney, Christopher Woodfin, respected the court’s ruling. One plaintiff, Charles Colegrove, expressed the belief that citizens should have a say in how project funds are spent.

The need for a new government center arose from space needs studies conducted in 2020, indicating the county was outgrowing its existing facilities. County officials emphasize the project’s importance given the projected population growth and increasing demands on government services. It remains unclear whether the plaintiffs will appeal the judge’s decision.

(Source：Daily Press)