Thread: "Clarksville Proposes English As Official Language"

"Clarksville Council Member Proposes English As Official Language"

http://www.wkrn.com/nashville/news/clar ... l-language

The fierce immigration debate is raging in Clarksville and now a Clarksville City Council member is proposing an ordinance that would make English the official language of the city government. The proposal would also fine businesses and landlords who knowingly employ or rent to illegal immigrants.

Wallace Redd is the councilman behind the controversial proposal. His proposed ordinance declares English the official language of city government and would fine businesses and landlords who knowingly employ or rent to illegal aliens. It would also strip offending business owners of their business license for one year. So far, no other members of council have voiced support for the measure, but Redd is confident it'll pass.

"Most of them of course were silent, and I think they will support this. There were just two or three who had something to say negative against it and I think that will be the two or three that vote against it,” said Redd.

Clarksville's Chief of Police told the council the department lacks the resources to enforce the ordinance and expressed doubt as to whether it would significantly decrease crime. At least one local worker suspects the proposal is politically motivated

Critics worry the ordinance would increase discriminationand said landlords and employers would be wary of hiring any Hispanics for fear of punishment. Councilman Redd, however, said the ordinance does not seek to punish the immigrants.

Councilman Ken Takasaki is also cautioning city leaders that state and federal laws must be considered. He said local governments have a responsibility regarding illegal immigration, but stresses the importance of respecting state and federal laws. He said, "We need to do our due diligence and look at the ordinance to determine the legality and the constitutionality of the ordinance before we enact it." He held a town hall meeting Wednesdaynight to get input from the people of Clarksville.

The council is set to vote on the measure in Thursday's regular session.

Clarksville, where ?

Originally Posted by Charlesoakisland

Clarksville, where ?

TN