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The proposal was introduced by Eric Crafton, a metropolitan councilman. It was opposed by a broad coalition <br />including the mayor, civil rights groups, business leaders, ministers and the heads of nine institutions of higher <br />education. <br />The results of this special election reaffirm Nashville's identity as a welcoming and friendly city," Mayor Karl <br />Dean said in a statement. <br />Mr. Crafton had said the policy would encourage immigrants to learn English and save the city more than <br />$100,000 in translation and related costs. The policy allowed exceptions to its English -only rule for issues of <br />health and safety. <br />Critics said the proposal would tarnish Nashville's reputation as a cultural mixing pot and drive away <br />immigrants and international businesses. They also accused Mr. Crafton of worsening anti - immigrant <br />sentiment and wasting at least $350,000 of taxpayer's money on a special election. <br />Thirty states, including Tennessee, and at least 19 cities have declared English their official language, according <br />to the U.S. English Foundation, which advocates such policies. <br />I hope this helps you out some... <br />Jeannette Bach 1 Research Manager <br />Tel: 651- 281 -1223 I Fax: 651 - 215 -4123 <br />• jbach(clmc.org I www.lmc.orq <br />League of Minnesota Cities <br />145 University Ave. West 1 St. Paul, MN 55103 <br />Connecting & innovating Since 1913 <br />• <br />2 <br />