State Representative Frank Niceley had some significant accomplishments this legislative session, however, the best accomplishment is when on the last day of session he was able to led a vote on elected school superintendents. This bill has always been locked in committee and the lobbyist on behalf of appointed superintendents always brags that this legislation will never make it to the floor.

This year Rep. Niceley attached an amendment to a bill on the floor. The vote on the amendment was to allow County Commission’s with a 2/3 rd vote, place the issue on a public referendum and let the voters decide. The amendment failed with 36 in favor and 51 against. (30 Republicans and 6 Democrats) Had all 46 Republicans stuck together with the 6 Democrats it would have passed.

This is a landmark, next year it will gain steam and may pick up the 16 Republicans and a 2008 referendum could be on your ballot for the following Yes/No question

Shall the Superintendent of ____________ County in Tennessee be elected?