Stanton could exercise town powers and arrange local court services

Stanton would have the listed powers to tax, borrow, manage property, provide services, and regulate activities. The listed powers cover town government, property, public utilities and services, streets and facilities, businesses, and activities affecting public welfare. The powers remain subject to applicable general law and the specific limits stated in the charter text.

The board may appoint a town judge or arrange for another court to provide town court services. This concerns Stanton's town judge and town court services. An appointed judge must be a Tennessee resident, at least 30, and a licensed attorney in good standing. The judge may practice law and do other nonconflicting work. The board may instead make an agreement with a court of competent jurisdiction for court services.

The town judge would preside over town court, impose penalties allowed by state law, and enforce fines and court costs. These provisions apply to the town judge and cases in Stanton's town court. The penalty for an ordinance violation cannot exceed the amount allowed by state law. Court costs must be set by town ordinance as state law requires. Town officials may not try to influence the judge's decision except by presenting relevant facts in open court.

The act takes effect only if two-thirds of Stanton's legislative body approves it. The approval condition applies to the entire act. The presiding officer must proclaim and certify the town's approval or nonapproval to the secretary of state. For the purpose of approving or rejecting the act, it takes effect upon becoming law; its other provisions take effect only as provided by the local approval section.