TennesseeHB 1439114th General Assembly (2025-2026)HouseWALLET

AN ACT to amend Chapter 615 of the Private Acts of 1931; as amended by Chapter 326 of the Private Acts of 1941; Chapter 534 of the Private Acts of 1953; Chapter 39 of the Private Acts of 1965; Chapter 20 of the Private Acts of 1965; Chapter 220 of the Private Acts of 1974; Chapter 106 of the Private Acts of 2000; and Chapter 5 of the Private Acts of 2017; and any other acts amendatory thereto, relative to the charter for the City of Ridgeside.

Sponsored By: Esther Helton-Haynes (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Ridgeside

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

11 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 6 mixed.

Special charges for street work

The city can bill abutting property owners for part of the cost of paving, sidewalks, sewers, and similar work. These charges become a lien on the property. If you do not pay, the city can sue in chancery court to collect.

Broader city tax power, fewer breaks

The city can levy local taxes on property and other subjects allowed by state law. The treasurer certifies the assessment roll, and the commission must set the yearly city tax. The city cannot grant new local tax exemptions unless state or county law already exempts them.

Late city taxes get costly

City taxes are due October 1 unless the city sets another date. Unpaid taxes get a 0.5% penalty and 1% interest on March 1 of the next year. Each month after, another 0.5% penalty and 1% interest are added. City real estate taxes become a lien on January 1 of the assessment year. The city can seize and sell personal property, send properties to the county for tax sale, or sue to collect.

Public projects and eminent domain

The city can build, fix, and manage streets, parks, sewers, and other public places. It can take property for public use under eminent domain, following state law. The city can buy, build, or run an airport. It can create and fund a municipal cemetery with a separate perpetual care fund. These powers improve infrastructure but can affect property owners’ rights and land.

Trash, health, and animal rules

The city can run or regulate trash and sewage collection and may charge fees. It can make and enforce health and sanitation rules to stop the spread of disease. It can require pet licenses, impound animals, and sell unredeemed animals. These steps protect health but can add duties and costs for households and businesses.

Utility rules and 25-year deals

The city can grant utility franchises or sign exclusive contracts for up to 25 years and set rates and terms. The city can also own or run utilities. It can set construction and service standards and require reasonable extensions. Existing exclusive contracts cannot be changed by the city.

City borrowing and bonds for projects

The city can borrow money and issue bonds, notes, or warrants to fund projects. Debt can be backed by the city’s credit, utility income, or special assessments. Projects can help residents, but repayments can lead to future taxes or fees.

Zoning limits and building safety

The city can set zones that limit where nuisance‑prone businesses may operate. Inspectors can check buildings and land and require repairs or stop use of unsafe places. These rules protect health and property values but can add costs and limit use.

City charter, boundaries, and elections

The law keeps Ridgeside as a legal city and updates its official boundary description. The county election board runs voter registration and city elections and certifies results. The charter controls when local rules conflict, subject to state law. Current officials keep their offices and pay until their terms end.

Business licenses and local taxes

Businesses in Ridgeside can be required to get a city license. The city can charge license taxes allowed by state law. Amounts and rules are set by local ordinance.

Fines for breaking city rules

The city can enforce ordinances with fines or other penalties and take cases to court. The city can also set limits on fines by ordinance. People and businesses that violate local rules can face money penalties.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Esther Helton-Haynes
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Bryan Terry
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 113 • No: 0

House vote • 4/21/2025

Haynes - HOUSE CALENDAR & RULES COMMITTEE

Yes: 0 • No: 0

House vote • 4/21/2025

Haynes - FLOOR VOTE: CONSENT CALENDAR PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION 4/21/2025

Yes: 86 • No: 0

House vote • 4/16/2025

Haynes - HOUSE STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE

Yes: 17 • No: 0