Court cancels oral arguments on city’s proposed annexation

TUPELO — The Mississippi Supreme Court has canceled oral arguments scheduled for April 10 on the city of Tupelo’s annexation case.

The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal reports the decision means the justices won’t hear live testimony from attorneys on either side of the issue but will rule entirely on written briefs.

Earlier, Tupelo had opposed a request by Lee County to postpone oral arguments because of scheduling conflicts.

Tupelo had filed a petition in 2008 to annex some 16 square miles of unincorporated land. It would affect about 2,500 residents.

The annexation was opposed by Lee County, Saltillo, Plantersville and several fire-protection districts.

Chancellor Edward C. Prisock ruled in Tupelo’s favor in 2010.

Opponents have said there are questions about whether Tupelo can provide needed services in the area.