Judge dismisses lawsuit, allows Oconee sewer expansion

A judge in Oconee County has dismissed a lawsuit that sought to halt a $25 million sewer expansion project. This decision reverses an earlier ruling that allowed the case to proceed. Circuit Judge Lawton McIntosh ruled that the lawsuit was filed too late, as state law permits challenges to bonds only within 20 days of issuance. The lawsuit claimed the bond violated the state Constitution and unfairly burdened taxpayers. County officials argued the project would benefit the entire community by boosting economic growth. The ruling is seen as a significant win for the county, allowing the sewer expansion to move forward.