The results are in on Nashville’s four charter amendments

It appears that all four charter amendments have been approved by voters.

The amendments to the city charter helped make this year’s ballot the longest in Metro history. Here’s what will change now that they have passed:

Amendment 1 – Petition requirements

Amendment 1 alters the process of how the charter is amended — yes, very meta. It changed the number of required signatures to 10% of registered voters in Nashville-Davidson County.

Before this vote, a petition needed signatures from 10% of the number of voters from the previous general election. The number of required signatures depended on how high voter turnout was in the previous general election.

“It is an attempt to bring certainty to the process and to reduce litigation,” wrote Councilmember Bob Mendes. “Over the last several years, Metro has had to pay outside lawyers more than $1 million to fight lawsuits about amending the Charter. It’s time to fix this process.”

Amendment 2 – Police officer physical qualifications

Amendment 2 changes the requirements to join the Metro Nashville Police Department.

Currently, MNPD has the same physical fitness standards as the U.S. Army and Navy. Amendment 2 changes that, allowing the Metro Civil Service Commission to set MNPD’s fitness standards. Supporters hope it will help diversify the Metro Nashville Police Department.

Amendment 3 – Clarifies Board of Health and Department of Health

Amendment 3 better defines the differences between the Metro Department of Health and the Board of Health.

Before, only a medical doctor can serve as the Metro director of health. Amendment 3 removes that requirement and create the position of chief medical officer if someone without a medical degree becomes director.

Amendment 4 – Cements NDOT in the charter

A year ago, the Nashville Department of Transportation was created. Now, it will be permanently cemented in the charter.

This amendment lays out what the department is in charge of, including power and duties. NDOT replaces Public Works, and the city will continue providing all the same services.