Mike Carter talks with reporters outside the Hamilton County Commission room in this file photo.NASHVILLE - Rep. Mike Carter, R-Ooltewah, has placed one controversial anti-annexation measure on hold but is moving ahead with another in a House subcommittee next week.
The bill requires voter approval in advance before any city can annex territory within its existing urban growth boundary. Carter's measure is scheduled to be heard in the Local Government Subcommittee on Wednesday.
Carter also has filed legislation requiring municipalities to provide all promised public services in their borders before annexing more property.
Meanwhile, Carter has taken off notice -- at least for now -- a bill requiring cities to annex all territory in their urban growth boundaries before trying to amend the plan. The bill remains in the House Calendar and Rules Committee, its last stop before going to the House floor for a final vote. Cities have objected to the legislation.
Carter, an attorney, said he has been involved in annexation procedures for 25 years and wants to make the process "more fair and efficient for all interested parties."
"I believe in responsible growth and that mutual respect should be afforded to all citizens, both city and county, with regard to the annexation process," he said.
"Even California is more conservative on this issue as they require a referendum vote in order for a municipality to annex property," Carter added.
"In all my life, I never would have thought our state would have to look to California for leadership on fair property rights legislation."