Public Meetings - Nashville, Tennessee

The Metropolitan Council met on January 21, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Historic Metro Courthouse. Thirty-eight members were present. The meeting included presentations honoring the Nashville Fire Department EMS on its 50th anniversary and declaring January 2025 as Dry January USA Month, led by Councilmembers Suara and Bradford. The Council acted on a large consent agenda, several public hearings for zoning bills, resolutions addressing traffic enforcement, arts funding, education policy, and ceremonial recognitions. Consent Calendar - A consolidated consent agenda of 39 items (resolutions and ordinances on second and third reading) was adopted unanimously (36-0). Items included grant contracts for juvenile justice, public health, homeless services, transportation agreements, and multiple zoning changes on second reading. Public Comments & Testimony - Dee Dee Byrd (District 35) urged the Council to adopt non-violent crime-prevention tools and improve safety for all residents. - Heather Lefkowitz (District 24, Metro Arts Commissioner) spoke in support of Resolution RS2025-961, noting increased funding levels for Thrive grants and the commission's commitment to equitable arts funding. - Tim Jester (District 11, Metro Arts Commissioner) also supported RS2025-961, acknowledging the arduous process and that Thrive funding was increased to 40% of the grants budget. - During a public hearing on BL2024-594, Adam Holstead (District 21) spoke in favor, describing noise issues from a nearby nightclub and supporting clearer definitions of "bar or nightclub" in the zoning code. Discussion Items RS2024-905 – Traffic Enforcement Resolution - Sponsor Councilmember Eslick introduced a resolution urging MNPD to increase traffic enforcement and NDOT to improve road safety. - Councilmember Toombs offered a substitute to narrow the focus to DUI, speeding, reckless driving, and distracted driving, and to request a traffic calming study from NDOT. The substitute passed by voice vote (Eslick voting no; Kimbrough abstaining). - Councilmember Eslick then moved an amendment to require filling all vacancies in the MNPD Traffic Division. The amendment passed on a roll call: 17-16-3. - The resolution as substituted and amended was adopted: 34-0-2 (Kimbrough and Johnston abstaining). RS2025-961 – Metro Arts Grants Criteria - Councilmember Porterfield moved adoption of the resolution establishing criteria for Operating Support and Thrive grants, with an amendment to update the attachment. The amendment passed by voice vote; the resolution as amended passed 35-0. RS2025-998 – Opposition to Education Savings Account Expansion - Councilmember Capp moved adoption. Councilmember Bradford invoked Rule 12.3 to add all affirmative voters as cosponsors. The resolution passed 31-0-1 (Eslick abstaining). RS2025-1000 – Honoring Vencen Horsley - Councilmember Huffman moved adoption, noting Horsley's civil rights legacy. Adopted unanimously (35-0). RS2025-1001 – Recognizing Russ Pulley - Councilmember Preptit moved adoption, recognizing the former council member's retirement as NCAA football official. Rule 12.3 invoked. Adopted unanimously (35-0). RS2025-960 – Mixed-Income PILOT Program Adjustment - Deferred to the March 4, 2025, council meeting upon sponsor Allen's request. RS2025-992 – T-Mobile Location Agreement Amendment - Deferred one meeting (to February 4, 2025) by rule, due to a Budget and Finance Committee deferral recommendation. RS2025-993 – Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant - Adopted as substituted (housekeeping change to correct department name). Passed by voice vote. BL2024-594 – Defining “Bar or Nightclub” - Passed on second reading as substituted (substitute removed large/small nightclub distinction and 49% sales threshold). Referred to Planning and Zoning Committee. BL2024-619 – Two-Story Overlay District (Tucker Road) - Passed on second reading as substituted (reduced acreage from 80.06 to 48.82 acres). BL2024-624/625 – Pennington Bend Road SP (39 multi-family units) - Passed on second reading; third reading deferred to March 4, 2025. BL2024-671 – Barnes Road Rezoning - Substituted from RS10 to RS20 to increase lot size; passed on second reading. BL2024-621 – Ashland City Highway Rezoning - Deferred on third reading to February 4, 2025. BL2025-703/704 – Historic Landmark Overlay at 4301 Harding Pike - Deferred on first reading to February 4, 2025. Key Outcomes - RS2024-905: Adopted as substituted and amended; directs MNPD to develop a traffic enforcement plan and fill vacancies, and NDOT to improve traffic calming. - RS2025-961: Adopted as amended; sets criteria for Metro Arts grants with increased Thrive funding (40% of grants budget). - RS2025-998: Adopted opposing ESA expansion; will be transmitted to state legislature. - RS2025-1000 and RS2025-1001: Adopted honoring Vencen Horsley and Russ Pulley. - RS2025-960, RS2025-992, BL2024-621, BL2025-703, and BL2025-704: Deferred to future meetings. - Several zoning ordinances passed on second reading and will advance to third reading; some third readings were deferred to March 4, 2025. - Appointments: Dajanae Cole confirmed to Auditorium Commission; other nominees re-referred or deferred.

The Leadership Executive Committee of the Metro Nashville Arts Commission met on January 15, 2025, at 6:15 PM to address critical agenda items including the conciliation agreement, the FY25 grant cycle, and the vacancy for interim executive director following the resignation of Dr. Coleman. The committee discussed staff vacancies, grant timelines, and operational support, and voted to recommend Ashley Batchelder as interim executive director. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were submitted or presented during the meeting. Discussion Items - Conciliation Agreement Review: Director Tucker introduced the review, noting it is the last significant piece of the agreement. He recognized staff Tessa Ortiz and Ashley Batchelder for compiling the materials, and thanked Commissioner Lefkowitz for contributions. Chair West emphasized proceeding in good faith. - FY25 Grant Cycle Update: Commissioner Lefkowitz reported on the first grants committee meeting of the newly constituted committee. Policy gaps and timeline adjustments were discussed. A revised timeline was adopted as a policy recommendation to expedite funding to artists and organizations. The committee recommended delegating Commissioner Lefkowitz to work with staff to finalize and file legislation by Friday at noon. - Interim Executive Director Vacancy: Director Hall explained that following Dr. Coleman's resignation, an interim executive director is critical given the grant cycle and other operational needs. He proposed Ashley Batchelder as the only viable candidate, noting her internal knowledge of Metro processes, relationships with key departments (Metro Legal, Metro Finance), and prior work on the conciliation agreement and grant process. Batchelder expressed willingness to serve if appointed. Director Tucker voiced mixed feelings but strong support, emphasizing the importance of equitable distribution of public resources. - Staff Operations and Vacancies: Director Hall outlined the status of open positions: Finance Administrator (39 qualified applicants, 14 top-tier), Public Information Manager (45 qualified, 17 top-tier), and Public Art Coordinator (to be reposted due to administrative error). He noted that having an executive director is key to advancing hiring. Commissioner Harden inquired about temporary support during the transition; Director Hall indicated that internal candidates like Batchelder could expedite processes. Chair West raised concerns about the budget cycle and the need for finance support. - Commission’s Policy Role: Tessa Ortiz clarified that the commission sets policy, and the director operationalizes it. She advised using policy to provide clear directives and recommended reviewing the annual report submitted to council to ensure fund release. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Ashley Batchelder as Interim Executive Director: Motion by Commissioner Harden, seconded by Commissioner Lefkowitz. Passed unanimously. The recommendation will go to the full commission for a vote on January 16, 2025. - Delegation of Grants Criteria: Commissioner Lefkowitz was delegated to work with staff to finalize and file amendments to grant legislation by Friday, January 17, 2025, at noon, pending full commission approval. - Grant Timeline Adoption: The grants committee adopted a revised timeline for the FY25 grant cycle, which will be presented to the full commission for approval. - Staff Hiring Next Steps: Director Hall indicated that with an executive director in place, interviews for Finance Administrator and Public Information Manager could begin as early as the following week, with potential hires within a month. The Public Art position will be reposted and prior candidates invited to reapply. - Annual Report Review: The committee discussed the annual report submitted by Dr. Coleman to council. It was agreed to send the report to the full commission for review and potential edits to ensure the release of grant funds.

The Metropolitan Council of Nashville and Davidson County held its regular meeting on December 17, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Historic Metro Courthouse. The meeting included public hearings, approval of a consent agenda, and separate votes on several resolutions and ordinances. Key actions included adoption of a $527.17 million capital spending plan, confirmation of board appointments, and approval of multiple grants and contracts. The meeting also featured public comment on a proposed greenway connector and discussion of a controversial resolution regarding personnel policies on hate groups. Consent Calendar - All items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously (35-0). This included numerous resolutions and ordinances on second and third reading, such as: - RS2024-917 to RS2024-954 (except items removed): approved agreements, grants, contracts, and proclamations. - BL2024-595 to BL2024-637 (bills on second and third reading): approved zoning changes, easements, and infrastructure projects. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephanie Johnson (Madison resident) and Tyler Blankenship (Madison resident) spoke in support of an amendment to the capital spending plan (RS2024-882) to fund a feasibility study for a pedestrian path connecting Peeler Park to the Stones River Greenway. They emphasized equity, connectivity, and recreation. - Chris Ashton (Germantown resident) also supported the pedestrian path, citing health, transportation savings, and the need for safer bike/ped infrastructure in Madison. - Adam Holstead (North Nashville resident) raised concerns about noise from a nightclub near his home, requesting help from the city to address it. Discussion Items - Capital Spending Plan (RS2024-882): Councilmember Porterfield moved to adopt the $527.17 million general obligation bond resolution. Councilmember Hancock noted disappointment that her amendment for a Pedestrian Connector feasibility study was voted down in committee (3-4). Councilmember Styles declined to move her amendment for a multilingual welcome sign, citing positive committee discussions. Councilmembers asked about East Bank infrastructure costs (estimated as ongoing), convenience center funding, and NDOT project breakdowns. The resolution passed 35-0 with two abstentions (Kimbrough and Bradford). - Lease Amendment for Liberty Collegiate Academy (RS2024-919): Councilmember Benedict explained the amendment reduces square footage at same rates. Passed 28-5. - Grant from University of Nebraska (RS2024-931): Council suspended Rule 17 to allow the contract to be signed by Metro first due to the university’s similar rule. Adopted unanimously. - Fire Inspection Contract Amendment (RS2024-939): Approved as amended (amendment added by Councilmember Porterfield). Passed unanimously. - School Resource Officer Grant (RS2024-940): Accepted $ grant for SROs in MNPS and charter schools. Passed 30-4-2 (Porterfield, Welsch, Vo, Gadd voted no; Kimbrough and Lee abstained). - Aerial Encroachment (RS2024-948): Authorized encroachment at 107 4th Ave N. Passed 30-1-6 (Porterfield no; six abstained). - Resolution on Hate Groups and Water Cannons (RS2024-950): Councilmember Preptit introduced an amendment to narrow focus on Civil Service Commission policies. After debate (concerns about accusatory language vs. proactive measure), the amended resolution passed 31-5 (Webb, Eslick, Nash, Benton, Rutherford no). The resolution requests review of MNPD, DCSO, NFD, and Civil Service policies on hate groups, paramilitary gangs, and misuse of water cannons/fire hoses. - Honoring Hwarang Joo (RS2024-951): Adopted unanimously. - Congratulating WTVF NewsChannel 5 (RS2024-953): Adopted with all affirmative voters listed as cosponsors per Rule 12.3. - Bills on Third Reading: - BL2024-610 (mixed-use zoning at 12th Ave S & Beechwood) passed as amended (parking concerns addressed). - BL2024-621 (zoning change at 4212 Ashland City Hwy) deferred to January 21, 2025. - BL2024-628 (pedestrian signaling agreement) deferred to January 21, 2025. - Rules of Procedure Amendments (H1, H2): Deferred to February 18, 2025, with a specially called committee meeting on January 28, 2025. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolutions: RS2024-911 to RS2024-916 (beer permit exemptions except RS2024-915 deferred), RS2024-882 (capital spending plan), RS2024-919, RS2024-931, RS2024-939 (as amended), RS2024-940, RS2024-948, RS2024-950 (as amended), RS2024-951, RS2024-953. - Confirmed Appointments: Anthony Pezzi, Brian Yunker (Mechanical/Plumbing/Electrical Board); Topania Byars, Shilan Haji (Metro Action Commission); Ericka Dixie (Solid Waste Region Board); Carol Westlake (Transportation/Licensing Commission); Jianwei Li (Wastewater Hearing Authority). All unanimous. - Deferred Items: RS2024-915 (beer permit for Sauced) to Jan 21, 2025 with additional public hearing; BL2024-621 and BL2024-628 to Jan 21, 2025; Rules of Procedure amendments to Feb 18, 2025. - Final Meeting of 2024: The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2025.

The Metro Arts Commission convened on December 5, 2024, at 12:15 PM CST (18:15 UTC) to deliberate and vote on funding allocations, grant criteria, and policy updates. The meeting featured public comment, legal counsel regarding a conciliation agreement, and votes on operating and Thrive grant guidelines. No final allocation was reached due to loss of quorum. Public Comments & Testimony - Terry Davis (personal assistant to artist Alishaba Morozick) opposed the proposed $5,000 flat fee for Thrive grants, arguing it is insufficient given rising costs and would undermine the program. She also criticized the exclusion of micro organizations from Thrive and the lack of operating support. - Alan Faye (executive director, Nashville Philharmonic) supported Commissioner Lefkowitz's funding proposal (Option B), advocating for distributing funds to more organizations even in smaller amounts. He criticized the commission's process and the staff recommendation to defund 43 organizations. - Mark Schlicker (vice president, Friends of the William Edmondson Home site) echoed concerns about Thrive budget cuts, criticized the mural proposal as "a solution in search of a justification," and highlighted issues with fiscal sponsors and micro organizations. Discussion Items - Legal Counsel on Conciliation Agreement: Assistant Metro Attorney Cesar Ortiz Marsh (Tessa) explained that the commission is legally bound by a conciliation agreement with MHRC stemming from a Title VI complaint. He urged commissioners to read and comply, noting that terms have not been fully met. Commissioners discussed their lack of prior orientation and legal responsibilities. - Operating Support Grants – Funding Scenario: The commission considered two scenarios: Option A (staff/committee recommendation) and Option B (Commissioner Lefkowitz’s proposal based on December 2022 guidelines). Option B scales awards to fund all organizations scoring over 70 (large: $400,000; medium: $50,000; small: $25,000; micro: $12,500). Approved 9-1 (Commissioner McCoy abstained). - Thrive Grants – Criteria and Guidelines: The grants committee recommended a flat $10,000 funding model, eligibility for 501(c)(3) organizations and artist collectives, fiscal agent use, and other provisions. After debate on tie-breaking, a motion passed adopting the committee’s recommendation with amendments: first tiebreaker prioritizes council districts with no Thrive-funded projects; second tiebreaker uses rescoring by new panelists. The motion also included staff recommendations (allowing murals, background checks, priority funding for underrepresented districts, fiscal agents). Approved 9-0. - Panelist Criteria: Approved staff recommendations: panelists paid $350, conflict of interest statements, in-person review over two days per category (Thrive and operating). Approved by voice vote. - Allocation of Funds (Deferred): A motion for a 60/40 split (Thrive $1.305 million, operating $1.958 million) was made but failed when the roll call lost quorum. The original staff recommendation ($900,000 Thrive, $2.363 million operating) was not voted on. Key Outcomes - Operating Support Grants: Approved funding scenario B (Commissioner Lefkowitz model) for FY2025. Vote: 9-1. - Thrive Grants: Approved criteria and guidelines with flat $10,000 model and tie-breaking rules. Vote: 9-0. - Panelist Criteria: Approved. - Allocation: No final decision reached; meeting adjourned without resolving the Thrive/operating split. A special-called meeting may be required. - Next Steps: Staff will begin technical review and panelist selection for both grant programs. The commission acknowledged the need for further governance training and compliance with the conciliation agreement.

The Metropolitan Council met on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Historic Metro Courthouse. The meeting included elections, appointments, public comment, public hearings on zoning ordinances, a consent agenda, and several individual resolutions. A central focus was the debate and vote on a contract amendment with Fusus (RS2024-792), which ultimately failed. Key outcomes included the election of two board members, confirmation of multiple appointments, approval of grants and settlements, and deferral of several items. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda included numerous resolutions and ordinances that had received unanimous committee approval. Items covered acceptance of grants, contracts, infrastructure donations, honorary resolutions, and routine ordinances on second and third reading. All items on the consent agenda were approved by a vote of 37 in favor, 0 against. Public Comments & Testimony - Public comment focused primarily on resolution RS2024-792 (Fusus contract amendment). Eleven speakers registered, with six speaking in support and five in opposition. - Supporters: Danny Ayala (general manager of Hampton Inn, Dickerson Pike), Jeanette Barker (Nashville Downtown Partnership), David Steed (private citizen), Verna Wyatt (co-founder, Tennessee Voices for Victims), Stephen Hirsch (District 25 resident), and an additional speaker. They argued that Fusus provides critical tools for rapid crime response, victim support, and law enforcement efficiency, and that safeguards in the substitute address misuse concerns. - Opponents: Craig Bardo (Veterans for Peace), Bobby Watts (CEO, National Health Care for the Homeless Council), Stephen Watts (District 10 resident), Ezra Howard (researcher), and Judith Clairjoan (advocacy director, TIRRC Votes). They raised concerns about surveillance overreach, lack of proven effectiveness, potential for abuse against immigrant and marginalized communities, and the need for community-based safety solutions. Discussion Items - Elections and Appointments: Council elected Kenya Payne (33 votes) and Becky Sharpe (31 votes) to the Health and Educational Facilities Board. Multiple appointments to boards and commissions were confirmed unanimously after committee review. - RS2024-792 (Fusus Contract Amendment): The resolution to extend and expand the Fusus surveillance technology contract sparked extensive debate. A substitute was offered by Councilmember Evans, including provisions for immediate termination if misuse arises, prohibition of facial recognition and AI, and requiring council oversight of terms. An amendment by Councilmember Styles further defined misuse. After multiple failed attempts to call the previous question, the vote on the final substituted and amended resolution failed (20 yes, 18 no). - RS2024-879 (Environmental Justice Grant): Councilmember Kimbrough explained her no vote, stating that only $500,000 of the $20 million grant would go to a feasibility study for a closed landfill in her district, insufficient for the environmental needs. - RS2024-905 (Traffic Enforcement Resolution): Deferred to January 21, 2025, to allow community conversations on equitable enforcement. - Honorary Resolutions: Resolutions honoring the lives of Alyssa Lokits and Bill Freeman were adopted with all members voting in the affirmative added as co-sponsors. Key Outcomes - Elected: Kenya Payne and Becky Sharpe to the Health and Educational Facilities Board (33 and 31 votes, respectively). - Confirmed: Parvathi Santhosh-Kumar (Metropolitan Action Commission), Sam Petschulat (Property Standards and Appeals Board), Freddie Carr (Transportation and Licensing Commission), Patrick McNally (Transportation and Licensing Commission), Jennifer Dodd, Katy Duryea, Jay Tant, and Robert Wingfield (Wastewater Hearing Authority) – all unanimously. - RS2024-792 (Fusus) – Failed (20 yes, 18 no). - RS2024-879 (Environmental Grant) – Passed (30 yes, 1 no). - RS2024-890 (Settlement – Sara Davis) – Passed (30 yes, 0 no). - RS2024-904 (Settlement – Paula Lewis) – Passed (31 yes, 1 no). - RS2024-906 (Honoring Bill Freeman) – Passed unanimously. - BL2024-628 (Pedestrian signaling agreement) – Passed on second reading as substituted. - Deferrals: BL2024-594 (bar/nightclub definition) deferred to January 21, 2025; BL2024-623 (rezoning at Old Hickory Blvd) deferred to February 4, 2025; RS2024-905 (traffic enforcement) deferred to January 21, 2025. - All other public hearing ordinances on second reading (BL2024-595, 598, 608, 609, 610, 611, 612 as substituted, 616, 617, 618, 620, 621 as substituted, 622) passed.

The Metro Arts Commission convened on November 21, 2024, at 12:00 PM (started late, ended at 2:00 PM) for a regular meeting. The agenda included roll call, a land acknowledgement, public comments, approval of minutes, a public art project budget increase, committee updates, and extensive discussion on the FY25 grants process, including the Thrive program and general operating grants. The meeting highlighted ongoing tensions with the Metro Human Relations Commission (MHRC) over the conciliation agreement, missed deadlines, and the urgent need to finalize grant criteria for council approval. Public Comments & Testimony - Director Tucker (MHRC): Expressed full support for equitable distribution of public resources and concern that Metro Arts has not responded to MHRC's offers of help. He stated that MHRC will not support any document that is not in the best interest of Nashville's arts ecosystem and warned that the January 6, 2025 deadline for new grant policies is likely to be missed. - Councilwoman Joy Styles: Voiced deep disappointment over the lack of progress, emphasized that the Metro Council will defer any sloppy legislation, and urged the commission to act quickly. She noted that the December 3 council meeting is the last realistic opportunity to present something. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes: The August 14, 2024 minutes were tabled after corrections were requested by Commissioners Watts and Hardin regarding wording and completeness. - Public Art Committee – Arthur Avenue Project: Ann Leslie Owens presented a request to increase the artist budget from $400,000 to $500,000 and site work budget from $100,000 to $400,000, both from the percent-for-art fund. The project is part of a larger NDOT and TDOT collaboration. Commissioners raised questions about the total budget and the role of the mayor's transit plan. The motion passed unanimously. - Budget and Oversight Committee: No report due to lack of quorum; Commissioner Watts called for more transparency on budget items. - CARE Committee: Vice Chair Hardin reported that CARE has not met since the last meeting but is working on an equity definition and hopes to be involved in the grants process. - Grants and Funding Committee: The bulk of the meeting was devoted to this item. Staff (Dr. Paulette Coleman and Sydney Davis) presented recommendations for FY25: a $900,000 allocation for Thrive (out of $3.256 million total grant funds), with a maximum grant of $5,000 per individual artist to fund as many applicants as possible. They also outlined criteria for Thrive and general operating grants, including a fiscal agent mechanism for individuals. Commissioners raised concerns about the lack of advanced notice of documents, the change in Thrive cap from $20,000 to $5,000, insufficient community engagement feedback, and poor communication with MHRC. Legal counsel Tessa Lynch explained the tight deadlines: to meet the December 17 council meeting, criteria must be filed with finance by December 2 and legal by December 4, requiring a grants committee meeting by November 25-26 and a commission vote by November 27. The conciliation agreement requires collaborative public engagement, and MHRC indicated the sessions were insufficient. Key Outcomes - Approved: Public art budget increase for the Arthur Avenue project (artist budget to $500,000, site work up to $400,000) – unanimous. - Tabled: August 14 minutes. - Scheduled: A grants committee meeting (noticed for Monday or Tuesday, Nov 25/26, 12:30 PM) and a special commission meeting on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at 10:00 AM, to discuss and potentially vote on grant criteria and allocations. - No votes on grants: The commission did not vote on any grant criteria or allocations; these will be addressed in the upcoming meetings. - Communication: Commissioners directed staff to provide all documentation and community feedback before the special meetings, and urged improved communication with MHRC. - Contingency planning: Legal counsel is proactively communicating with MHRC about potential breaches of the conciliation agreement deadlines.

The Metropolitan Council of Nashville and Davidson County met on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Metropolitan Courthouse. The meeting covered a public hearing on a controversial surveillance technology contract (Fusus), multiple resolutions accepting grants, several zoning ordinance approvals on third reading, and appointments to various boards. The meeting lasted several hours with extensive public comment. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of November 7, 2024. - Confirmed multiple appointments to boards (Community Correction Advisory Board, Community Review Board, Hospital Authority Board, Property Standards Appeals Board) by unanimous votes. - Adopted the consolidated Consent Agenda (including RS2024-863 through RS2024-875 and numerous zoning ordinances on second and third reading) by a vote of 29-0, with items removed as noted below. Public Comments & Testimony - David Tucker (via public comment) urged deferral of RS2024-791 (Zencity platform), arguing for a more independent community survey approach. - Craig Bardo (Party for Socialism and Liberation) opposed the Fusus contract, calling it a "Panopticon" surveillance system. - Michelle Flynn expressed concern that Zencity would be seen as a PR tool and asked for a broader survey. - Lucas Glossman and Isabel Skrelix spoke in support of greenway easements and the infant-toddler court grant, respectively. - Tala Saad opposed the SRO grant, citing increased criminalization of students. - Tawana Chick (Cane Ridge community) asked for deferral of BL2024-574 (Burkitt Road development), alleging lack of adequate community meeting. - Giovanna Meeks supported the Sexual Assault Center grant. - Edmundo Chaparro raised concerns about property tax increases and road conditions. - During the Fusus public hearing, 30+ speakers testified, with supporters citing public safety benefits (including David Steed, Steve Hirsch representing Jewish community, Tawana Chick as retired police sergeant) and opponents raising privacy, civil liberties, and risks to marginalized communities (including Sabina Mohideen, Bronson Schmidt, Michael Durham, and many others). Discussion Items - Fusus Contract (RS2024-792): Public hearing held. A motion to defer by Council Member Evans was debated. A motion to table the deferral failed 16-22. After further debate, the deferral motion passed 20-18, deferring the item to December 3, 2024. - Zencity Blockwise Platform (RS2024-791): Council Member Benedict moved a one-meeting deferral to allow Metro Human Relations Commission to present an alternative survey approach. The deferral passed by voice vote. - Traffic Enforcement Resolution (RS2024-873): Council Member Eslick withdrew the resolution. - Rosetta Miller-Perry Resolution (RS2024-876): Deferred by rule to next meeting. - Late Resolution (RS2024-877): Accepted grant for broadband, passed unanimously after rules suspension. - Zoning Ordinances on Third Reading: - BL2024-486/487 (Ewing Drive, 29 units) passed 36-0 with amendment. - BL2023-99/100 (Clarksville Pike, 590 units) passed 35-0 with one abstention. - BL2024-570 (Neely's Bend) passed 36-0 after substitute. - BL2024-574/575 (Burkitt Road, 288 units) passed 30-2 with two abstentions, despite a deferral motion that was tabled. Key Outcomes - Fusus contract deferred to December 3, 2024 (20-18 vote). - Zencity grant deferred to December 3, 2024. - Sexual Assault Center grant (RS2024-867) approved 34-0. - Violent Crime Intervention Fund grant (RS2024-869) approved 35-2. - School Resource Officer grant (RS2024-871) approved 28-6. - Turkey Icehouse beer permit (RS2024-862) approved 34-0. - Consent Agenda adopted 29-0. - BL2024-597 (Securus contract extension) passed second reading. - Multiple zoning ordinance changes approved on third reading, as detailed above. - Appointments confirmed for Community Correction Advisory Board, Community Review Board, Hospital Authority Board, and Property Standards Appeals Board.

The Metropolitan Council of Nashville and Davidson County convened in special session on November 7, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Metropolitan Courthouse. The meeting included elections to the East Bank Development Authority, confirmations of board appointments, public hearings on numerous zoning bills, consideration of a large consent agenda, and votes on several resolutions. Notable points include the passage of a $7.55 million affordable housing grant, the deferral of a police survey software grant, and the approval of multiple zoning changes for residential developments, some of which drew public opposition. Elections - East Bank Development Authority: Two vacancies were filled. Scott Tift received 24 votes and Nathaniel Carter received 21 votes, out of 35 votes cast. Mekayle Houghton received 20 votes, Bob Braswell 2 votes, and Kerry Garner 0 votes. Tift and Carter were declared elected to terms expiring June 30, 2027, and June 30, 2026, respectively. Appointments and Confirmations - Community Correction Advisory Board & Community Review Board: Appointments (Joshua Brand, Donna Grayer, Marcus Shute Jr., Jarrell Summers, Joe Umberger, Heather Meshell, Walter Searcy) were re-referred to the Rules Committee for further consideration. - Hospital Authority Board: Reappointment of Frank Stevenson was re-referred. - Property Standards and Appeals Board: Appointments of Naima Fierce and Katie Martin were re-referred. - Traffic and Parking Commission: Appointment of Daniel Ryan Jr. was withdrawn. - Nashville Music, Film, and Entertainment Commission: Erika Nichols was confirmed unanimously. - Stormwater Management Commission: Nathan Oliver was confirmed unanimously. - Health and Educational Facilities Board: Nominations for two vacancies were accepted. Kenya Payne, Dr. Connie Graves, and Becky Sharp were nominated; election set for December 3, 2024. Public Comments - Dave V. Tucker expressed concerns about RS2024-791 (police survey software), suggesting robust community engagement instead. He requested a deferral. - Jill Fitcher requested a deferral on RS2024-831 (DNA backlog grant) to obtain more information on outsourcing and vendor credentials. Public Hearings & Zoning Approvals (Second Reading) - RS2024-807 (Turmeric beer permit exemption): Passed 33-0. - BL2023-99 / BL2023-100 (Clarksville Pike, 590 multi-family units): Passed with a voice vote, with Councilmember Kimbrough abstaining. Public comments included support from a project representative and opposition citing proximity to a natural gas pipeline and concerns about apartment density. - BL2024-486 / BL2024-487 (Ewing Drive, 56 units): Substituted to reduce units to 29 single-family homes. Passed as substituted. - BL2024-559 (DADU Overlay District): Passed. - BL2024-560 / BL2024-561 (Stewarts Ferry Pike, mixed-use): Passed. - BL2024-562 (Foster Avenue): Passed. - BL2024-563 (Neelys Bend Road): Passed. - BL2024-564 (Manchester Avenue): Passed. - BL2024-565 / BL2024-566 (Dickerson Pike, hospital): Passed. - BL2024-567 / BL2024-568 (Central Pike, self-storage): Passed. - BL2024-569 (Joyner Avenue): Passed. - BL2024-570 (Neely's Bend Road): Passed. - BL2024-571 (River Drive): Passed. - BL2024-572 / BL2024-573 (2nd Avenue North, 395 units): Passed, with third reading deferred to December 3, 2024. - BL2024-574 / BL2024-575 (Burkitt Road, 288 units): Passed after a motion to defer was tabled (22-7). Public opposition cited lack of signage, traffic concerns, and oversaturation of apartments. - BL2024-576 / BL2024-577 (West Trinity Lane, 250 units): Passed. Public comments from developer Dominium indicated the project is affordable housing. - BL2024-578 (New York Avenue): Passed. - BL2024-579 (Whitney Park Drive): Passed. - BL2024-580 (Hart Lane): Passed. - BL2024-593 (Old Hickory Boulevard): Passed. Consent Agenda - All consent items passed unanimously (35-0), including grants, cooperative agreements, and routine ordinances. Resolutions - RS2024-791 (Police survey software): Deferred one meeting. - RS2024-818 (Amendments to six affordable housing contracts): Passed as amended (34-0). - RS2024-831 (DNA backlog reduction grant): Passed (36-0). A motion to defer two meetings failed (10-25). - RS2024-833 (Violent Crime Intervention Fund): Passed (33-3). - RS2024-854 (Honoring Alyssa Lokits): Deferred to December 3, 2024. - RS2024-858 (Downtown Presbyterian Church Waffle Shop): Passed (36-0), with all affirmative votes listed as cosponsors. - RS2024-860 (Office of Conservatorship Management anniversary): Passed (34-0, 1 abstention), with all affirmative votes listed as cosponsors. Bills on Introduction and First Reading - BL2024-598 (Phillips-Jackson Street Redevelopment Plan): Passed as amended (suspension of rules for late amendment). - BL2024-613, BL2024-614, BL2024-615 (River North Urban Design Overlay): Withdrawn. - BL2024-619 (Two-Story Overlay District): Passed first reading; second reading deferred to January 21, 2025. - BL2024-624 / BL2024-625 (Pennington Bend Road): Passed first reading; second reading deferred to January 21, 2025, with re-referral to Planning Commission. Other - BL2024-469 (Criminal participation of Metro employees): Withdrawn. Key Outcomes - Elected Scott Tift and Nathaniel Carter to the East Bank Development Authority. - Confirmed Erika Nichols and Nathan Oliver to commissions. - Approved numerous zoning changes for residential, mixed-use, and commercial developments. - Passed a $7,551,528.78 grant to I am NEXT, Inc. for affordable housing. - Deferred a grant for police survey software (RS2024-791) to allow for consideration of alternative software. - Approved a grant to outsource sexual assault kit analysis (RS2024-831), despite a failed deferral attempt. - Deferred resolutions honoring Alyssa Lokits and the Downtown Presbyterian Church Waffle Shop to upcoming meetings. - Withdrawn several bills, including the River North zoning text amendments and the criminal participation ordinance.

The Metro Arts Commission convened on October 23, 2024, at 10:00 AM. The meeting included public comment, committee updates, a lengthy discussion on grant criteria and community engagement, and approval of the Community Arts Leaders of Nashville (CALN) program. Key speakers included commissioners, staff, Metro Legal, Nashville City Councilmember Styles, and the executive director of the Metro Human Relations Commission (MHRC). Consent Calendar - The minutes from the September 26, 2024 meeting were approved by voice vote (all in favor). Public Comments & Testimony - Davy Tucker (Executive Director, Metro Human Relations Commission) urged the commission not to approve any criteria or allocations today, arguing that the conciliation agreement settling a Title VI claim had not been followed “to the letter nor the spirit.” He requested that commissioners educate themselves on the complaint and the agreement before moving forward. - Councilmember Styles (District 35) provided procedural guidance, emphasizing that council prefers a single, cohesive grant plan covering both operating support and Thrive, and that meaningful community engagement must occur before legislation is introduced. She warned that “vultures are circling” for unallocated budget funds. - A representative of MHRC (later in the discussion) stated that separating Thrive from operating grants would not be supported, as Thrive is integral to achieving equity under the conciliation agreement. Discussion Items - Public Art Committee (PAC) Update – Commissioner West reported that no PAC meeting was held in October due to projects closing out or in design development. A three-page handout of current and upcoming projects was distributed. - Budget & Administrative Oversight Committee Update – Commissioner Watts reported the committee met September 17. Topics included FY24 closeout, FY25 budget work, audit updates, and conciliation meetings. Staff identified and began updating administrative procedures. A motion to dissolve the committee was raised but not acted upon. - Grants & Funding Committee Report – Commissioner Jester reported that the committee met earlier in the week and voted to recommend approval of funding criteria, but with conditions: a plan for community engagement and legal review. As of the meeting, Metro Legal had not been given sufficient time to review; community engagement was lacking. Commissioner Lefkowitz expanded on the need for transparency, noting that a process outlined in August by Tessa Ortiz Marsh (Metro Legal) had not been followed. She proposed a series of steps including scheduling committee meetings, widely disseminating guidelines, and creating data visualizations. - Grant Criteria & Thrive Working Group – Interim Director Dr. Coleman provided context: the proposed allocation splits $3.2 million as $2.3 million for General Operating Support (GOS) and $900,000 for Thrive, based on last year’s Thrive level. He noted the Thrive working group (part of the conciliation agreement) must present a plan by January 5, 2025. The group is considering fiscal agent models but has not defined the program. Legal counsel Tessa Ortiz Marsh clarified she needed a one-week buffer to review final policy for legal sufficiency; she had received the scoring rubric and selection panel criteria only the evening before. Discussion revealed that the commission had not yet decided the allocation split between GOS and Thrive—a policy decision the commission must make. - CARE Committee Report – Commissioner Hardin reported the committee lacked quorum at its last meeting but is close to finalizing an equity definition. He suggested CARE could host community engagement sessions for the grant process. - Community Arts Leaders of Nashville (CALN) Program – Restorative Arts Manager Josiah Golson presented the CALN program, which provides paid internships at Nashville arts organizations for undergraduate students, prioritizing Pell Grant recipients. Funding comes from a separate restorative arts line item ($88,100 in the current budget). Fifteen host sites applied; the fall semester was paused due to Metro Arts’ transition. The request was to approve criteria, applications, and move to council for spring 2025 implementation. Key Outcomes - Grant Criteria Deferred – The commission effectively deferred action on the grants and funding committee’s recommendation to approve funding criteria. No formal vote was taken; continued discussion and submission of questions to staff were agreed upon. The plan will return after legal review, completion of the Thrive working group plan, and actual community engagement (not just a plan). - CALN Program Approved – A motion to approve funding and operations of the CALN program for internships from January 1 to June 30, 2025, was made. An amendment to stipulate that these funds are separate from the operating/thrive grant program (coming from the restorative arts budget) was adopted. The amended motion passed on a roll-call vote: 11 in favor (Kurtz, Lefkowitz, Jester, Kuleo, Nichols Phillips, Rosenbloom, Wade, Watts, West, and others), 0 opposed. - New Staff Introduction – Fred Adam was introduced as the new part-time senior finance person. He will assist with financial accountability, audit findings, and staff training. - Next Steps – Commissioners were asked to compile questions on the grant criteria and submit them to staff and legal. The working group will continue meeting on Thrive. The CARE committee will work on finalizing an equity definition and may host community engagement sessions. Metro Arts must also submit a financial report to council per the budget ordinance to release grant funds.