RESOLUTION NO. RS2011-1582

A resolution opposing any state legislation that would remove or inhibit local government powers of self-governance.

WHEREAS, several legislative items are currently pending in the Tennessee General Assembly that would negatively impact the ability of local elected officials to make decisions they deem to be in the best interest of their constituents; and

WHEREAS, state legislation is pending to prohibit local governments from enacting or enforcing any ordinance or policy that would impose an anti-discrimination employment practice for companies doing business with the local government that is not exclusively limited to state-recognized protected classes; and

WHEREAS, this pending state legislation would also prohibit local governments from imposing any employment practice or standard that mandates health insurance benefits, minimum wage, or family leave requirements upon private businesses; and

WHEREAS, in addition to legislation restricting local government decision-making authority concerning employment and contracting matters, state legislation is also pending that would prohibit local governments from rezoning private property without the express written consent of the property owner, and would prohibit new local zoning regulations from ever applying to existing nonconforming commercial properties; and

WHEREAS, local governments in Tennessee should have the freedom and authority to make decisions that are solely applicable to the Metropolitan Government without state interference.

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 opposing any state legislation that would remove or inhibit local government powers of self-governance.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution to each member of the Davidson County Delegation to the Tennessee General Assembly.

Section 3. 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: Megan Barry, Jerry Maynard, Ronnie Steine, Lonnell Matthews, Vivian Wilhoite, Kristine LaLonde, Sam Coleman, Sandra Moore, Erica Gilmore, Buddy Baker, Edith Taylor Langster, Walter Hunt, Darren Jernigan, Parker Toler, Sean McGuire, Mike Jameson, Jason Holleman, Anna Page, Jamie Hollin, Bruce Stanley