Bill > SB2698

This bill, concerning the charter of the Town of Stanton, proposes to revise the town's general powers and provisions related to its town judge, subject to local approval. Specifically, it amends existing law by replacing the current Section 5 with a new section that broadly expands the town's powers, granting it authority to assess and collect taxes, make special assessments for local improvements, contract and incur debt, issue bonds, acquire and dispose of property, condemn land for public use, operate public utilities, grant franchises for public utilities, and regulate various aspects of public services and utilities. It also empowers the town to establish public works like streets and sewers, manage waste collection, license businesses, and exercise general police powers to protect public health, morals, and safety, including the establishment of a design review commission. Furthermore, the bill revises Section 18 to outline the qualifications and duties of a town judge, allowing them to continue practicing law if there's no conflict of interest, and specifying that their salary is fixed by the board of mayor and aldermen, with all court fees belonging to the town. The town judge will have jurisdiction as authorized by the Municipal Court Reform Act of 2004 and can impose fines and penalties for ordinance violations, with the mayor having the authority to appoint a substitute judge if needed. The bill also allows the town to contract with other courts for judicial services. For this act to take effect, it must be approved by a two-thirds vote of the Town of Stanton's legislative body.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/Default?BillNumber=SB2698&ga=114