Memphis, TN, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Memphis Mayor Lee Harris has vetoed a resolution that would have required the MSCS board members to run for election next year. This decision follows the Shelby County Commission’s narrow approval of the resolution aimed at aligning MSCS elections with county commission elections and reducing some board members’ terms. In his veto letter, Harris stressed that elected officials’ terms should not be shortened without an emergency. The move has sparked mixed reactions from the community, with concerns over educational outcomes and administrative stability at the forefront.
Memphis โ Mayor Lee Harris has vetoed a resolution that would have mandated all members of the Memphis-Shelby County School Board (MSCS) to run for election next year. This decision comes after the Shelby County Commission approved the resolution by a narrow margin just two weeks earlier. The resolution was intended to align MSCS elections with the county commission elections and cut some board members’ terms in half.
In his veto letter, Mayor Harris expressed his belief that the terms of elected officials should not be shortened, absent an emergency or criminal misconduct. This stance is in contrast to the concerns of some local residents and advocates who express frustration over the current education system, highlighting that only 22% of children are reading at grade level.
The resolution was introduced in response to the school boardโs controversial decision to fire Superintendent Marie Feagins, who held the position for just nine months. In light of this situation, the resolutionโs supporters felt it was necessary to promote swift accountability and change within the school board.
MSCS Board Member Tamarques Porter stood in favor of the mayorโs veto, emphasizing the need for stability and public trust in the education system. Conversely, some commissioners, including Britney Thornton, who voted for the resolution, indicated that there is considerable constituent feedback regarding the issue. A vote to potentially override Mayor Harrisโs veto is anticipated soon; for this veto to be overturned, eight commissioners would need to endorse the move.
The veto decision has elicited varied reactions across the community, with some residents expressing relief while others voiced frustration. The current political atmosphere surrounding the school board elections is being recognized as a critical factor influencing the quality of education in the Memphis-Shelby County area.
The juxtaposition of stability against the push for immediate reform has ignited discussions among community members about the direction of the education system in Memphis. It remains to be seen how the impending vote will unfold, especially with constituents keenly watching the developments.
Key Details:
- Mayor Lee Harris vetoed a resolution for MSCS board elections.
- The resolution aimed to align MSCS and county commission elections.
- Harris expressed that elected officialsโ terms should not be shortened without emergencies.
- Supporters of the resolution cited accountability needs within the MSCS.
- Only 22% of children in the area are reading at grade level.
- The veto has triggered mixed feelings among local residents.
Background Context:
The resolution for the election was introduced following the firing of Superintendent Marie Feagins. This event sparked a broader discussion about leadership and stability within MSCS. Elected officials are now under scrutiny as local constituents demand better educational outcomes and governance.
Upcoming Actions:
FAQ Section
What did Mayor Lee Harris veto?
Mayor Lee Harris vetoed a resolution that would have required all Memphis-Shelby County School Board (MSCS) members to run for election next year.
Why was the resolution introduced?
The resolution was introduced in response to the school board’s decision to fire Superintendent Marie Feagins after just nine months on the job.
What were the implications of the resolution?
Under the proposed resolution, some school board members’ terms would have been cut in half.
How did the community react to the veto?
The veto has sparked divisive reactions within the community, ranging from frustration to relief among local residents and advocates.
What is the current political sentiment regarding school board elections?
The current political climate surrounding the school board elections is viewed as a critical issue for the quality of education in the Memphis-Shelby County area.
Key Features of the Vetoed Resolution
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Veto | Mayor Lee Harris vetoed a resolution impacting MSCS elections. |
| Resolution Objective | Align MSCS elections with county commission elections; cut terms of some board members. |
| Community Response | Divided opinions; frustration from some, relief from others. |
| Educational Outcomes | Only 22% of children reading at grade level, highlighting systemic issues. |
| Potential Override Vote | A vote to potentially override the veto is expected, requiring eight votes from commissioners. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Memphis Public Libraries Launch Freedom to Read Week
Shelby County Commission Adjusts School Board Election Schedule
Memphis Reports on Mixed Performance in Student Growth
Germantown Mayor Mike Palazzolo Announces Re-Election Bid
Memphis Area Transit Authority Faces Leadership and Service Challenges
Community Rally Demands Change in Memphis-Shelby Schools
Memphis-Shelby School Board Implements Term Limits
University of Memphis Faces Big 12 Rejection and New Sponsorship
Shelby County Commission Delays Vote on School Board Election Reset
Additional Resources
- The Daily Memphian: Mayor Harris Isn’t Listening to Memphis
- The Commercial Appeal: MSCS Board Term Changes Mayor Veto
- Local Memphis: Mayor Lee Harris Veto Frustration Education Advocates
- FOX13 Memphis: Residents React After Mayor Lee Harris Vetoes MSCS Board Election Resolution
- Wikipedia: Memphis
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
