NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A final effort to save the state fairgrounds off Nolensville Road is circulating among Metro Council members.
Councilman Duane Dominy has introduced a bill that reiterates the ownership of the property.
In Tuesday's Council meeting, Dominy said, "That property belongs to the taxpayers of Davidson County, not to one district council member, not to one district. It belongs to the taxpayers."
While supporters of saving the fairgrounds are thrilled with Dominy's bill, the fairgrounds are not in his district.
"Since I was not advised about this bill prior to being filed, I'm requesting a two week deferral to allow time to review the bill further," said Councilwoman Sandra Moore, who represents District 17, where the fairgrounds are located.
Moore feels that Dominy has literally overstepped his boundary.
In fact, some council members said the introduction of the bill, without consulting with Moore, is not only going against council's rules and procedures it lacks respect.
"I'm speaking of dealing with the protocol and the lack of respect of filing an ordinance or filing legislation without giving consideration to the district person where that land is situated," said Councilman Jerry Maynard said.
The majority of council did vote to defer the bill for two weeks, but the discussion of the property, its history and its place in Nashville culture ignited passionate debate among council members.
The fairgrounds fight may be in its last round, but it's definitely not over.
"There are over 36,000 names on petitions to stop this," said Councilman Michael Craddock. "The people of this city do not want this, and the administration continues to drive the train straight forward. If we adopt a posture of selling non-performing assets, the Municipal Auditorium should be next. It has never made money."
The fairgrounds bill will be considered at the next council meeting in two weeks.
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Councilman Duane Dominy introduced the bill that reiterates the ownership of the fairgrounds property.
Councilwoman Sandra Moore requested the bill be deferred for more time to review it.
