RESOLUTION NO. RS2002-1140

A resolution requesting the Davidson County Election Commission to examine and report on the conduct of the August 1, 2002 election, the September 5, 2002 run-off election, and the general election of November 5, 2002, and report its findings to the Metropolitan Council.

WHEREAS, prior to the August 1, 2002 election, redistricting occurred within the area of the Metropolitan Government, resulting in changes in state legislative districts in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, together with changes in the Congressional districts and in voting precincts; and

WHEREAS, an extensive number of qualified and registered voters received erroneous voter registration cards which compounded the confusion as to where voters should vote in the August 1st election; and

WHEREAS, it is apparent that the officers of election at the various precincts were not adequately trained and that the precincts were not appropriately staffed to conduct this election; and

WHEREAS, there were lost tally sheets at some precincts during this election, and alleged discrepancies in the manner in which votes were counted; and

WHEREAS, the August 1, 2002, election was a vital election as it served as a general election for county office holders, a primary election for both state and federal office holders, and an initial election to fill the vacancy of Vice Mayor; and

WHEREAS, on Thursday, September 5, 2002, there will be conducted a county-wide election to finally determine the winner of the office of Vice Mayor and, thereafter, a general election on November 5, 2002, at which time state representatives, senators, two members of the U.S. House of Representatives, and one member of the U.S. Senate will be elected; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the conduct of all three elections be studied and examined and a report issued so that appropriate steps can be taken to assure that future elections are conducted according to law and in a manner that affords citizens the opportunity to vote with assurances that their vote will be properly counted.

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

SECTION 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Davidson County Election Commission to examine and report on the conduct of the August 1, 2002 election, the September 5, 2002 run-off election, and the general election of November 5, 2002, and report its findings to the Metropolitan Council.

SECTION 2. The Commission is requested to make a preliminary report to the Metropolitan Council not later than October 15, 2002, and to make its final report to the Council not later than December 15, 2002.

SECTION 3. That the Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a certified copy of this Resolution to the members of the Davidson County Election Commission.

SECTION 4. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Lynn Williams