City Set To Hold English Language Vote

All 172 Nashville Precincts Open Thursday

POSTED: 3:22 pm CST January 21, 2009
UPDATED: 5:47 pm CST January 21, 2009

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- After months of discussion about the referendum to make English the official language of Nashville, voters will get to voice their opinion on the issue Thursday.

Voters will decide on two amendments in the special election.

The first measure is the English language issue, while the second measure will decide whether or not to make it easier for amendments to be up for public vote.

For months, Council member Eric Crafton battled with Davidson County officials about the legality of allowing residents to vote on the English language referendum and on what date.

Establishing English as the official language of Nashville has created a lot of voter interest, and the election commission members are expecting high turnout.

If the measure passes, Nashville would become the largest U.S. city to make English the mandatory language for all government business.

The long-term effects of passage are unclear because the measure would allow the city council to make exceptions for public safety and health.

Crafton argues that requiring one language is an orderly way to unite the city of more than half a million people.

Opponents contend the proposal will drive businesses, tourists and potentially millions of dollars in federal grants away from a city known for its Southern hospitality.

Business executives, academics, Gov. Phil Bredesen and even Nashville Mayor Karl Dean have called for the amendment's defeat.

All of Nashville's 172 precincts will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday for the special election.

About 13,400 Davidson County residents voted early on the measure.

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