RESOLUTION NO. RS2003-1479

A resolution requesting funding for a task force of law enforcement officers – cross trained in criminal law enforcement and codes enforcement – to patrol and address convenience markets which sell large quantities of beer.

WHEREAS, multiple convenience markets throughout Nashville and Davidson County derive substantial portions of their revenue from the sale of single-item beers; and

WHEREAS, the sale of single-item beers by convenience markets can contribute to and/or facilitate the commission of criminal offenses, including public drunkenness, driving under the influence, littering and the general degradation of surrounding areas; and

WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the citizens of Nashville and Davidson County that the Metropolitan Government prevent such criminal offenses, and further enforce the requirements of the Metro Zoning Code, Property Standards Code, and Building Code (hereinafter “environmental codes”); and

WHEREAS, focused enforcement of existing laws, both criminal and environmental, would limit or eliminate the negative impacts caused by the sale of single-item beers by convenience markets.

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 funding, within the Operating Budget for fiscal year 2003-2004, for a police task force dedicated to the enforcement of criminal statutes, local ordinances and codes provisions, to prevent the commission of criminal and codes offenses having their origin in the sale of single-item beers.

Section 2. That the task force consist of a minimum of four (4) Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County law enforcement officers -- cross trained in criminal law enforcement and environmental codes enforcement -- to patrol and address convenience markets.

Section 3. That the Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a certified copy of this Resolution to the Acting Chief of Police, Finance Director, Director of Law, the Codes Director and Planning Director.
Section 4. 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: Leo Waters