If a district council members resigns or dies more than eight months before the end of their four-year term, a special election is held to fill the seat.

At-large council members are elected by the entirety of the area the metropolitan government encompasses.

Under the Metropolitan Charter, members must be over the age of 25 and have lived within Davidson County for a year at the beginning of their terms.

Members of the Metro Council who act as presiding officer during the Vice Mayor's absence retain their right to vote on all resolutions and ordinances.

In 2006 the Metro Charter Review Commission scheduled a public hearing on the council's size.

Dissidents said that if the size of the council were to be reduced, being elected could become a matter of who can raise the most money, and special interests may get involved.

Councilwoman Amanda McClendon said a reduction in size may make it easier to pass legislation.