LEBANON — Bishop Fenwick High School will remain in Middletown, following a court ruling Thursday.

        Warren County Common Pleas Judge William Stapleton's decision allows the city of Middletown to annex a 97-acre Franklin Township parcel where Fenwick plans to build its new school. The judge's ruling overturns an October 2001 decision by Warren County commissioners denying the annexation petition.

        “It means we can continue our relationship with city officials and services such as fire and police protection in Middletown,” said Father Charles ""Chuck” Mentrup, Fenwick's principal.

        Franklin Township trustees will meet soon to decide whether to appeal the judge's ruling, said Rupert Ruppert, president of the board of trustees.

        “I don't agree with the decision, but we've always realized this was an uphill battle,” Mr. Ruppert said Thursday. “The laws are written in favor of cities. I think it was a close call.”

        Township officials argued they could provide the same — or better — services to the property than Middletown.

        Fenwick officials said they wanted to remain in Middletown, a place they've called home since the school opened in 1952.

        “This is terrific news. We thought the law was on our side in this case,” said Middletown City Manager Ron Olson.

        Fenwick plans a new campus along Ohio 122, about 1.3 miles east of Interstate 75. The $12 million project includes a 75,000- to 90,000-square-foot building to accommodate about 600 students in grades 9-12.

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