ORDINANCE BL2017-939

An ordinance to amend Chapter 2.04 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to add a new section regarding approval of transit improvement programs.

WHEREAS, transit is a critically important infrastructure need for Nashville and Middle Tennessee;

WHEREAS, it is expected that billions of dollar will be spent to build an improved transit system and related infrastructure;

WHEREAS, a local dedicated funding source is needed to assist in building an improved transit system and related infrastructure;

WHEREAS, the state legislature passed the IMPROVE Act in 2017 that, in part, allows cities to create a local surcharge tax to support transit funding if the local surcharge tax is part of a "transit improvement program" adopted by the local legislative body;

WHEREAS, the IMPROVE Act, at Tennessee Code Annotated Section 67-4-3206, allows municipalities the flexibility to choose between adopting a transit improvement program by ordinance or resolution;

WHEREAS, it is in Nashville's best interests to require the Metropolitan Council to deliberate fully with the three readings required for ordinances before adopting a transit improvement program that will lead to billions of dollars of spending on infrastructure improvements; and

WHEREAS, in a sign of respect to our citizens and the importance of these transit and spending decisions, the Metropolitan Government should be committed to only adopt a transit improvement program by ordinance.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That Chapter 2.04 of the Metropolitan Code be amended by adding a new Chapter 2.04.060 as follows:

Section 2.04.060 Approval of transit improvement program.

In order to adopt a transit improvement program under the meaning of Tennessee Code Annotated Section 67-4-3201, et seq., or any successor statute, the transit improvement program must be passed by an ordinance approved by the Metropolitan Council on third and final reading by a majority vote of all the members to which the Council is entitled.

Section 2. This Ordinance shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Bob Mendes, Tanaka Vercher, Larry Hagar, Freddie O'Connell

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Introduced:	October 17, 2017
Passed First Reading:	October 17, 2017
Referred to:	Traffic, Parking & Transportation Committee
Passed Second Reading:	November 7, 2017
Passed Third Reading:	November 21, 2017
Approved:	November 22, 2017
By: