By Nikki Gaskins
ngaskins@abcnews4.com
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV)—Carnival Cruise Lines is coming under fire. A year ago, the popular cruise line based its nearly 2,000 passenger ship in Charleston permanently. With a new cruise terminal in the works, several groups are now planning to take legal action.
The Coastal Conservation League and the Historic Ansonborough Neighborhood Association are both included in a draft lawsuit against carnival.
Lawyers with the Southern Environmental Law Center in Charleston prepared the lawsuit and plan to file it by this Friday or Monday.
In a meeting held at the First Scots Presbyterian Church, the Charlestowne Neighborhood Association voted overwhelmingly, 135 to 35, Wednesday to be named as co-plaintiffs in the same lawsuit.
"It's asking for a determination that certain city ordinances apply to cruise ship activity," said Stephen Gates with the Charlestowne Neighborhood Association.
Gates, who is also a member of his community's Cruise Ship Task Force, says the lawsuit wants to make Carnival subject to City and State regulations.
"Until that compliance is in place the cruise ship activity probably ought not to be taking place," said Gates.
Some of the issues addressed in the lawsuit include regulating noise, zoning, ship size, and pollution.
"Putting the agreed limits in writing, under ordinances, is just the proper way to address the situation," said Gates.
A new cruise terminal in the works at Union Pier is being designed for ships to carry as many as 3,500 passengers. It's something homeowner, Jay Williams, isn't too thrilled with.
"Two cruise ships with 3500 hundred people, seven days a week in high season. I think it would overwhelm the city," said Williams.
While Williams supports the lawsuit, not everyone voted in favor of it.
"This neighborhood association has gotten along many years without suing anybody," said homeowner, Tommy Thornhill. "I think all tourism benefits Charleston."
Ted Stoney, another homeowner, agrees.
"I just don't see any substance in the argument," Stoney said.
Despite the few who oppose the lawsuit, many say it's the only way to protect their community.
"It's really a matter of maintaining a right scale and balance of the city," said Gates.
A spokesperson for the State Ports Authority says it won't comment on the lawsuit until it's officially filed.
Charleston Mayor Joe Riley has not yet responded to an ABC News 4 request for a response.
