Upcoming Vote on the Consolidation Referendum

One of the most divisive issues currently being debated among Memphis and surrounding area residents is that of consolidation. This debate, which has been building for quite some time, is quickly picking up steam as a result of the upcoming November 2nd vote which will decide what direction Memphis and Shelby county residents can expect to see their local government go in. The Commercial Appeal is running stories that support both sides of the issue. In an article, titled “Germantown charts its opposition to merger”, published Wednesday of this week, the group Save Shelby County was mentioned multiple times for being the leading community organized group opposing consolidation. Save Shelby County is a grass-roots nonpartisan organization aimed at influencing other residents that consolidation is not the correct route for Memphis and Shelby county to take (http://ww.saveshelbycounty.org/about-us.html). Another group, representing the other side of the issue, Rebuild Government was mentioned in a similar article, “Germantown merger forum draws opposition fears of Memphis influence” (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2010/aug/31/merger-airing-rings-with-skepticism) (http://www.rebuildgovernment.org). This is another group of concerned citizens that is very publicly supporting the proposed charter. Both groups are well organized and publicizing much info upholding each side of this argument. Through blogging, radio shows, websites, facebook, and research, these main organizations(as well as many others) are taking matters into their own hands and trying to reach as much of the voting population as possible. It is no secret that Memphis area residents are struggling to overcome many issues, including high crime, high poverty, low wages, and a failing school system. In addition, Memphis residents are burdened with the highest combined (city and county) tax rate in Tennessee, $ .0729. As stated in our most recent reading Place Still Matters, “Americans need a political strategy that unites central-city and suburban residents in a new coalition to support these policies”(page 3). With this vote being exceptionally divided, and for the most part between suburban and city residents, it is clear now more than ever, how much place matters.