Voters in Davidson County, Tenn., will decide on Aug. 6 whether the city will require construction crews for large public projects to use a minimum amount of local labor.
A proposed amendment to the charter governing Nashville and Davidson County would mandate that 40% of work hours on city- or county-funded construction jobs costing at least $100,000 be completed by residents. Labor unions support the proposal that more than 16,000 Nashville voters supported in a petition drive.
Opposing the measure are the outgoing mayor, several commercial contractors’ groups, the American Institute of Architects, and the local Chamber of Commerce.
Opponents have argued that because of an industry-wide labor shortage—including a projected shortage of nearly 18,000 workers in Nashville by the end of 2016—construction firms will have difficulty filling the proposed quota of local workers on every project.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jul 26, 2021
Revamping of Florida building codes on the table after condo collapse
Tragedy could prompt upgrades like post-Hurricane Andrew effort.
Codes and Standards | Jul 21, 2021
Proposal to give Calif. hospitals more time for earthquake retrofits stirs controversy
State hospital association says 2030 deadline should be extended.
Codes and Standards | Jul 20, 2021
New York, New Jersey legislatures may revamp bidding rules to promote low-carbon concrete
Contractors would have to certify that their concrete is in compliance.
Codes and Standards | Jul 19, 2021
Lack of information on carbon emissions challenges construction industry
Reports recommends whole-life carbon assessments on building projects.
Codes and Standards | Jul 19, 2021
Florida condo collapse spurs increased scrutiny on inspections, regulations
Insurers demand proof of current inspections.
Codes and Standards | Jul 15, 2021
Three drywall code-referenced publications have been updated
Include guidance on fire resistance, sound control, application, and finishing.
Codes and Standards | Jul 14, 2021
Biden’s infrastructure proposal includes massive investment in school buildings
‘Once in a lifetime opportunity’ to upgrade HVAC and other key systems.
Codes and Standards | Jul 13, 2021
Reluctance to fund maintenance on older condos is a serious problem
Owner associations defer needed work, putting properties at risk.
Codes and Standards | Jul 12, 2021
Regulations on hydrofluorocarbons reduce roof insulation options
Canada, some U.S. states ban HFC blowing agents used in closed-cell foam.
Codes and Standards | Jul 8, 2021
New York City shuts down 322 construction sites for unsafe conditions
Action comes as inspectors visit more than 2,100 sites.
