Public Meetings - Nashville, Tennessee

The Metropolitan Council of Nashville and Davidson County held its 25th regular meeting on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Historic Metro Courthouse. The meeting included elections, confirmations, public hearings, resolutions, and ordinances on second and third reading. Key actions included the failure of a $150,000 settlement for Jonathan Saad, approval of a $125,000 settlement for Beth York, deferral of the Fusus surveillance contract, and passage of several zoning changes. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (32-0): Multiple resolutions and ordinances, including grants for the WIC program, opioid abatement, air quality monitoring, HIV/AIDS programs, library services, park improvements, and various infrastructure agreements. Also approved were zoning changes on second and third reading (e.g., BL2024-526 through BL2024-547, BL2024-551, BL2024-552, BL2024-556-558, BL2024-581). - Note: BL2024-504 (stormwater easement repeal) was later rescinded and withdrawn. Public Comments & Testimony - Nicole Williams (Nashville resident) spoke in opposition to two items: - RS2024-708 (Jonathan Saad settlement): Urged council to ask more questions, citing ongoing dysfunction at Metro Arts and alleged inappropriate conduct. - BL2024-478 (Short-term rental ordinance): Expressed concern that the ordinance as drafted could be preempted by the state. Discussion Items - RS2024-792 – Fusus Surveillance Contract Amendment: A resolution to approve Amendment No. 3 to a sole source contract with Fusus, LLC for surveillance technology. After a public hearing where Nicole Williams spoke in opposition, the council voted to defer the item two meetings (to November 19, 2024) with a re-referral to committees. A motion for a one-meeting deferral failed 15-20. A subsequent public hearing was scheduled for the November 19 meeting. - RS2024-708 – Jonathan Saad Settlement: A resolution to settle claims for $150,000 from the $3 million Arts Commission fund. After extensive debate, the resolution failed with a vote of 7 in favor, 16 against, and 11 abstaining. Opponents cited concerns about the merits of the case, the amount compared to a wrongful death settlement, and a desire to litigate rather than settle. - RS2024-774 – Beth York Settlement: A resolution to settle a wrongful death claim for $125,000 from the Self-Insured Liability Fund. A motion to defer one meeting failed by voice vote. The resolution was adopted 33-0. Metro Legal noted that the family would receive more than $125,000 due to a global settlement involving Wellpath. - RS2024-746 – ARP Funds Reallocation: Approved as amended (30-0). The amendment extended contracts through February 28, 2025, and appropriated additional funds to Agape ($22,500), Sexual Assault Center ($105,000), and National Children's Alliance ($104,000). - RS2024-779 – EPA Grant for Air Quality: Adopted as substituted (32-0). A late-filed housekeeping substitute was approved to correct the grant description. - BL2024-478 – Short Term Rental Ordinance: Amended and passed on second reading by voice vote. Amendments clarified documentation categories and removed a reference to state law. - BL2024-535 – Couchville Pike Rezone (R20 to SP): Passed on third reading 30-1 (one no vote from Councilmember Porterfield). - BL2024-548/549/550 – White Bridge Pike Mixed-Use Development: Passed on third reading 30-1 after adoption of an amendment with additional conditions (screening, traffic signals, dog run relocation, etc.). Key Outcomes - Elections: - Councilmember Sepulveda elected to the Contract and Compliance Board (non-voting member). - Ann Barnett and Dontai Gleaves elected to the Contract and Compliance Board (community members). - Jayla Thomas elected to the Housing Trust Fund Commission after two rounds (23-12 over Gloria Hausser). - Confirmations (unanimous): - Fabian Bedne, Michael Iadevaia, Matt Neal, Alfredo Pena III to the Contract and Compliance Board. - Norah Buikstra and Seema Prasad to the Convention Center Authority. - Jenneen Reed as Metropolitan Director of Finance. - Deferrals: - RS2024-792 (Fusus) deferred to November 19, 2024, with a public hearing at that time. - RS2024-776 (Opioid Abatement Grant) deferred one meeting by rule. - RS2024-791 (Police safety survey platform) deferred one meeting by rule. - BL2024-469 (criminal participation of employees) deferred one meeting. - BL2024-553 (fire prevention code) indefinitely deferred. - Appointments of Jerry Pentecost (Auditorium Commission) indefinitely deferred and Frank Stevenson (Hospital Authority Board) deferred one meeting. - Withdrawals: - BL2024-504 (stormwater easement repeal) was rescinded from consent and withdrawn. - Resolutions adopted: - RS2024-801 (Honoring Kris Kristofferson) – adopted unanimously with all affirmative votes as co-sponsors. - RS2024-803 (Nashville Public Library Literary Award Gala 20th anniversary) – adopted. - RS2024-804 (American Baptist College 100th anniversary) – adopted as substituted. - RS2024-805 (Nashville Fire Department EMS 50 years) – adopted. - RS2024-806 (National Coming Out Day) – adopted.

The Metro Arts Commission held a joint meeting on October 10, 2024, beginning with a musical performance and remarks from artist Elena Anderson. The primary focus was rescinding previous grant allocation votes due to legal concerns about race-based discussion, followed by a new vote on funding scenarios. The commission also approved several public art projects, a new chair, and discussed operational challenges including a hiring freeze and a pending cultural planning pause. Public Comments & Testimony - Elena Anderson, co-founder of Nashville Women and Jazz and founder/director of National Musicians for Change, performed a song and spoke about her experience with Metro Arts. She stated that she applied for funding during the pandemic and was denied, feeling it was because she was a musician. She emphasized the importance of music in the arts and the financial struggles of artists, noting she works multiple jobs to afford living in Nashville. - Several commissioners and staff provided extensive comments during the grants discussion (see Discussion Items). Discussion Items - Rescinding Previous Votes: Metro Legal advised that the July 20, 2024 vote on funding distribution (Scenario A) was at risk of a lawsuit because the discussion centered too heavily on race. The commission voted to rescind the overall funding structure and all subsequent category votes (Thrive, micro, small, medium, mid-size, large). Each rescission passed unanimously. - New Funding Scenario Debate: The Grants and Funding Committee recommended Scenario 1 (prioritizing smaller organizations and individual artists). After lengthy debate, Scenario 1 failed (6 in favor, 7 opposed). Commissioners then proposed and withdrew a motion for Scenario 4 with caveats, then a clean motion for Scenario 4 passed. The commission then voted on allocations under Scenario 4 for each category: Thrive ($175,382.50), micro, small, medium, mid-size, and large. All passed, with four abstentions on the large category. - Public Art Committee Proposals: - 2024 pilot gallery at Main Library: Three temporary exhibits per year, $50,000 from temporary funds. Approved. - Lending Library Phase 2: Expansion to 60–80 artworks across multiple branches, purchase maximum increased to $2,000 per artwork, project budget $200,000. Approved. - Selection panel for permanent supportive housing art at Joe Johnston Street: Nine-member panel approved. - Mural assistance program: Up to $25,000 for a consultant to develop a mural program, funded from the percent-for-art fund. Approved (one abstention). - Nominating Committee: Commissioner Angelico was nominated and approved as chair for the next term, beginning November 1, 2024. - Appointment to Public Art Committee: Kara Robinson appointed for a three-year term. - Executive Director's Report: Daniel reported a hiring freeze due to budget uncertainty, which has delayed hiring of seven open positions. The freeze may force a pause in the cultural planning process. Additionally, Metro Legal has requested a compliance audit of grant contracting. - Old/New Business: Discussion on implementing a written policy to limit public comment to five minutes (per new state law effective July 1, 2024). Commissioner Tessa requested a policy on intellectual property rights in grant contracts; staff will research. Key Outcomes - Rescinded all votes from July 20, 2024 on funding allocation (Scenario A and each category). - Approved Scenario 4 as the funding model for FY24, allocating $175,382.50 for Thrive, and full funding for micro, small, medium, mid-size, and large organizations based on the scenario. - Approved Main Library gallery pilot (up to $50,000), Lending Library Phase 2 (up to $200,000), selection panel for permanent supportive housing art, and mural assistance consultant (up to $25,000). - Elected Commissioner Angelico as chair for the next term. - Appointed Kara Robinson to the Public Art Committee. - Acknowledged hiring freeze and potential pause in cultural planning; staff will meet with HR. - Directed staff to research public comment time limit policy and intellectual property protections in grant contracts.

On October 10, 2024, the Metro Arts Commission held its regular meeting with eight commissioners present, reaching quorum. The meeting opened with a land acknowledgement, introductions of new commissioners Jesse Rosenbloom and Mayra Yu, and featured public comment on the Title VI conciliation agreement, two public art design approvals, committee reports, and staff resignations. Note: The transcript refers to this as the August meeting, but the provided date is October 10, 2024. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the July 18 meeting were approved with an amendment adding Commissioner Nichols Phillips to the attendance list. The motion carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Ashley Batchelder (Metro Human Relations Commission) stated that the conciliation agreement between Metro Arts, Metro Legal, MHRC, and complainants fully resolves the Title VI complaint and moves into a compliance and monitoring phase. She expressed that the agreement should not be viewed as enforcement to cancel or delay any current fiscal year grants and objected to any conclusions positioning the Title VI complaint as the reason for such outcomes. She noted one additional conciliation meeting focused on policy changes adopted from fall 2022 through 2023 and urged that any grant program overhaul not disservice prior work. - Ben Tran, new chair of MHRC, clarified that the agreement does not prohibit Metro Arts from proceeding with the current grant cycle, including operational grants and Thrive. He cited page six, item five, which directs Metro Legal and Metro Finance to work with stakeholders in good faith to protect Thrive grant programs and identify a mechanism for distributing Thrive Light grants. He asked commissioners to trust the work already done and see this year's grants through, warning that delay or cancellation would replicate the problems that led to the original complaint. Discussion Items - Artist Spotlight: Sean Witzel, playwright, actor, and founder of Destiny Theater Experience, performed an original poem written from the perspective of a prison cell, inspired by his work at River Bend Maximum Security Institution. He discussed his one-man show '23-1' about solitary confinement, his workshops with Southern Word, his service on the Metro Nashville Community Review Board, and upcoming performances including 'Lightning Girl' at the Dark Horse Theater on August 23–24 and a pre-show piece at Nashville Shakespeare Festival on September 14. - Public Art Committee: Jessica Ingram presented two design proposals. - Omari Booker's design for Strobel House, Nashville's first permanent supportive housing, incorporates community engagement from Daybreak Arts and Room in the Inn. The design includes three-dimensional elements in planters and murals conveying themes of abundance, transformation, and enjoying nature from safety. The budget includes subcontractors, installation, materials, artist fee, overhead, and 20% contingency. The commission approved the design unanimously via roll call vote. - Creative Girls Rock, led by Alicia Bemarozic, presented a design for the Z. Alexander Luby Community Center, funded by participatory and percent funds. The monumental mural honors Z. Alexander Luby and civil rights figures and includes the text 'education, justice, community, equity.' Since Metro Arts will purchase materials and handle installation, the budget only covers artist fees. The commission approved the design unanimously via roll call vote. - Ingram reported Lending Library exhibition results: 113 artworks were purchased for a total of $61,045; the average purchase price was raised from $661 to $2,000. In an optional demographic sample, 39 artists identified as BIPOC, 17 as people with disabilities, 9 as ELL/immigrants/refugees, and 10 as LGBTQI. Of the most recent 53 artists, 45 were first-time Metro Arts participants. She also announced the fairgrounds dedication on September 12 and resigned as Public Art Manager. - Darren Jackson, Communications Manager, showcased video packages supporting the public art collection and also resigned. Both staff members were thanked for their contributions. - Grants and Funding Committee: Commissioner Jester reported that the conciliation agreement sets a path forward for Thrive and Operating Grants. She outlined deadlines: Thrive Working Group to identify options by October 29, 2024; present recommendations by January 6, 2025; draft legislation by February 25, 2025; submit by April 1, 2025. For operating grants, a community engagement plan is due by October 15, 2024, and final policies by January 6, 2025. She emphasized moving quickly but carefully to avoid further harm. Attorney Tyler Yarbrough clarified that the working group addresses the legal mechanism for distributing funds to individual artists, while policy decisions remain with the commission. He confirmed the agreement does not preclude moving faster than the deadlines and does not require discarding prior work. Commissioner Watts sought and received confirmation that the working group is responsible for the mechanism, while Metro Arts retains policy authority. - CARE Committee: Commissioner Lefkowitz reported the committee is developing a definition of equity to use as a living document when evaluating proposals and providing recommendations. Commissioner Watts suggested also defining 'vibrant community' and 'equitable' to align with the mission. - Budget and Oversight Committee: Commissioner Watts reported the committee is reviewing existing administrative processes and procedures, human resource issues, and will bring recommendations to the full commission over the next six months. The committee will determine its future in February. - Nominating Committee: Commissioner Wade reported the committee is developing a slate for chair, vice chair, and secretary, with elections required in September per bylaws. A special meeting will likely be needed. Commissioner Love clarified she completed a term and is not stepping down. Attorney Tessa stated that if elections are not held in September, current officers remain in place until successors are elected. - Interim Director's Report: Dr. Coleman welcomed new commissioners, announced two additional commissioners would join after August 20, and directed all managers to submit annual report summaries by August 23 and policy/procedure documents by August 31. She noted the annual report is required to release grant funding; the last posted report is 2021, though a 2022 version exists. She read a statement on the conciliation agreement, emphasizing commitment to continue grants while complying with state law. She reported that Thrive awarded over $900,000 in FY24, up from $200,000 and $250,000 in the three years preceding. The working group will meet regularly and report to the commission. Recruitment for staff vacancies is underway. - Chris Sofote, Finance and Operations Director, announced his resignation. Key Outcomes - July 18 minutes approved with amendment (unanimous). - Omari Booker's Strobel House design approved (10-0 roll call). - Creative Girls Rock's Luby Community Center design approved (10-0 roll call). - Staff resignations of Jessica Ingram, Darren Jackson, and Chris Sofote acknowledged. - Confirmed that the Thrive Working Group focuses on legal mechanisms while the commission retains policy decisions. - Conciliation agreement deadlines affirmed; the commission encouraged faster action where possible. - A special September meeting will be scheduled for officer elections.

The Metro Arts Commission met on October 10, 2024, to discuss and act on a critical internal audit report, a proposed conciliation agreement to resolve a Title VI complaint, the FY25 budget, and updates from several committees. The meeting included public comments, a unanimous vote on the conciliation agreement, and reports from the interim director and committee chairs. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the minutes from May 16 and May 24, 2024, with minor corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - Lydia Yusuf, a Title VI complainant, expressed opposition to the proposed conciliation agreement, stating it failed to protect Thrive and tax dollars. She advocated for direct funding to artists, citing examples from other progressive cities, and argued that the agreement did not constitute conciliation. - Rev. Davy Tucker urged the commission to accept the conciliation agreement as a starting point, noting that conciliation processes often leave parties not fully satisfied but create a common foundation for moving forward. He offered continued support from the Metro Human Relations Commission (MHRC). - Councilwoman Joy Stiles discussed legislation (BL 2024 343) that would place a council member on the commission. She noted an amendment removed the council member, leading her to withdraw the bill, but she plans to reintroduce it. She also announced an additional $250,000 in the budget, aiming for $10 million by 2027, and requested clarity on a commissioner email that appeared to come from the executive committee. Discussion Items - Internal Audit Report: The Office of Internal Audit presented findings from an audit of Metro Arts' grant processes and financial controls. Key observations included a lack of sufficient documentation, absence of robust internal controls, intentional circumvention of rules (e.g., split purchases to stay under $25,000, misuse of a temporary employee contract that bypassed HR and civil service rules), and inadequate monitoring of grant funds. The report contained 12 observations and over 35 recommendations. The audit was limited in scope due to insufficient supporting documentation. The commission discussed the need for a management response and a follow-up audit. - MHRC Conciliation Agreement: Tyler Yarbrough, legal counsel, presented the proposed conciliation agreement to resolve a Title VI discrimination complaint filed in October 2023. The agreement includes: supplemental payments to unfunded artists (26 muralists and 13 small/micro organizations), extended grant reporting deadlines, a commitment to preserve a program similar to Thrive that complies with the law, community engagement on new grant policies, and continued conciliation meetings. The commission voted unanimously (9-0) to accept the agreement in principle and authorized Tyler Yarbrough and Dr. Coleman to finalize the written agreement by July 31, 2024. - FY25 Budget: Christina Afote presented the operating budget for fiscal year 2025, which excludes grants and the additional $250,000+ secured by Councilwoman Stiles. The commission discussed moving toward monthly financial statements and the use of management consulting funds ($352,600). - Committee Updates: - Public Art Committee reported on the expansion of the lending library to five new branches and upcoming community engagement events. - Budget and Oversight Committee outlined plans to review audit responses, examine HR and public art processes, and develop financial reporting. - Grants and Funding Committee noted a holding pattern while working through conciliation and scheduled a public meeting for August 12, 2024, to gather community input on future grant cycles. - CARE Committee met and is realigning its guidelines with a focus on equity and community involvement; meetings will now be monthly. - Executive Committee discussed the timeline for the permanent director search, bylaw review, and the appointment of a nominating committee. Key Outcomes - Approved Minutes: May 16 and May 24, 2024, minutes approved with corrections. - Accepted Conciliation Agreement: The commission voted 9-0 to accept the conciliation agreement in principle, with direction to finalize a written agreement by July 31, 2024. (Note: The transcript references July 2024 dates, while the meeting date is stated as October 10, 2024, per the instruction.) - Audit Response: The interim director committed to providing a management response to the audit recommendations, with a follow-up audit expected from the Office of Internal Audit. - Budget: The FY25 operating budget was presented with plans for monthly financial reporting to the commission. - Search Committee: A nominating committee (Commissioners Wade, Harden, and Jester) was appointed to identify candidates for chair, vice chair, and secretary, with elections to occur at the August 15, 2024, commission meeting. - Bylaws Review: Commissioners were asked to submit suggestions for bylaw amendments by August 1, 2024, to the executive committee and legal counsel. - Next Meeting: The next full commission meeting is scheduled for August 15, 2024, at 12:00 p.m.

The Metro Arts Board of Commissioners held a special call meeting on October 10, 2024, at 1:45 PM CT. The meeting was convened to address unfinished business from a prior meeting where quorum was lost, specifically regarding the employment status of Executive Director Singh and quorum clarification. Commissioners voted unanimously to accept a settlement agreement for Director Singh's resignation and extended his administrative leave. Public comment was received, and the interim director provided a first-week update. Public Comments & Testimony - Janine Cristiano (via email read aloud) criticized language used by Commissioner Nephlin in a previous email, calling it misogynistic and harmful. She defended Thrive recipients, stated that her request for $20,000 to fund four projects for the Arabic-speaking community was the most Metro Arts had ever funded that community, and accused the commission of allowing violent language. She compared the logic to Republican rhetoric about welfare and corporate greed. Discussion Items - Settlement with Director Singh: Director Deets (Metro Legal) presented the terms of a settlement agreement reached after negotiations with Director Singh's attorney, Jamie Holland. The agreement includes: - Director Singh resigns as Executive Director of the Arts Commission. - Metro pays a lump sum of $100,000 from funds allocated to the Law Department for claims (not from the arts budget). - Director Singh signs a full release of all claims and dismisses his pending complaint with the Tennessee Human Rights Commission. - The agreement is subject to approval by the Metro Council at its next meeting on June 4, 2024 (note: this reflects transcript date; actual meeting date is October 10, 2024). - Director Singh will submit a written resignation within two days of Council approval. - Quorum Clarification: Attorney Ortiz Mars provided a memo stating that the quorum for the Metro Arts Board is eight commissioners, based on a conservative interpretation of the Metro Charter and bylaws. The Chair noted plans to bring bylaw amendments to a future executive committee meeting. - Interim Director Update: Dr. Paulette Coleman, interim director for seven days, introduced herself and her background (PhD in urban planning from MIT, nonprofit executive, editor). She reported on her first week: attending commission meetings, budget hearings, and staff meetings. Priorities include closing FY24 grants, revising FY25 guidelines, and strengthening organizational infrastructure. She noted the staff is enthusiastic but office space limits cohesion. - Executive Director Search: HR Director Shannon Hall outlined the standard three-to-four-month executive recruitment process: job posting with commission input, supplemental questions, panel interviews with stakeholder involvement, background and reference checks, and final public interviews. Commissioner Love asked about the interim director's role (if not a candidate), due diligence on backgrounds, and probationary status for the executive director (at-will under Metro Charter). Key Outcomes - Vote on Settlement Terms: Motion by Commissioner Nephlin, second by Commissioner Jester. Approved unanimously (10-0). - Vote to Extend Administrative Leave: Motion by Commissioner Lefkowitz, second by Commissioner Watts. Approved unanimously (10-0) to keep Director Singh on administrative leave with pay through June 8, 2024 (pending Council approval of settlement). - Conciliation Update: Commissioners Jester and McCoy reported that confidential conciliation has begun regarding the Title VI complaint with the Metro Human Relations Commission, involving the Law Department, Finance, and complainants. - Public Art Announcements: Commissioner West noted upcoming unveilings at Donaldson and the fairgrounds (dates via email), and a panel event at the Luby Center on June 10, 2024, featuring Creative Girls Rock. Next Steps - The settlement will be presented to the Metro Council on June 4, 2024, for approval. - If approved, Director Singh's resignation becomes effective June 6, 2024. - Executive committee meeting will be scheduled to discuss bylaw amendments addressing quorum and other issues. - The executive director search process will begin with HR guidance at a future commission meeting.

The Metro Arts Commission held a meeting on October 10, 2024, at 1:30 PM. The meeting opened with a land acknowledgement and included public comments, approval of minutes, reports from committees, a significant motion regarding the executive director, and several votes on public art projects and budgets. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the February and March meetings were approved without amendments, with minor corrections noted for the February minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Councilwoman Joyce Styles (District, Chair of Arts, Parks, Libraries, and Entertainment Committee) addressed concerns about inadequate public notice for the grants committee meeting, which she said gave the appearance of impropriety. She expressed a desire to rebuild trust and called for policy changes. She also mentioned that the executive director had not been supportive of the meeting and referenced an IT malfunction that delayed the agenda posting. - Councilman Jacob Coupin (District 19) expressed appreciation for the commission's work but encouraged longer lead times for public notice. He also asked for clarity on the status of Executive Director Singh, emphasizing the need to move forward. - Alan Fay (arts administrator and percussionist, District 16) voiced support for individual artist grants and encouraged the commission to change bylaws if needed to continue funding Thrive. He also publicly supported the staff, describing the executive director as having "ignored or bullied" staff prior to his leave. - Drew Ogle (National Repertory Theater) spoke about the positive impact of a METRO Arts grant, which funded the production of "The Color Purple," creating 54 paying jobs and drawing 4,000 attendees. He expressed gratitude for the commission's support. - Lydia Yusuf (public comment) delivered an impassioned speech framing the privatization of Thrive funds as part of a historical pattern of white supremacy, arguing it would create barriers for BIPOC artists and reduce accountability. - Christine Hall (public comment) emphasized that Thrive funding directly supports artists and must remain accessible, noting the demonstrable positive effects on the community. - Ashley Badgeholder (public comment) referenced a Title VI report recommendation that the Arts Commission's funding model be approved by Metro Council to ensure equitable distribution. She noted that this has not been done since 2001 and called for updated rules and regulations. - Nicole Williams (public comment) stressed the importance of adequate public notice, suggesting commissioners provide a buffer between agenda posting and meetings to avoid confusion. - Daniel Jones (artist and administrator, Kindling Arts and Oz Arts Nashville) expressed gratitude for the previous day's meeting and raised concerns about the grants timeline, hoping for awards by July or August to avoid gaps in programming. Discussion Items - Public Art Committee Report (Commissioner West): - Old Hickory Community Center Design Concept (Wings of Time): The committee recommended approval of the design by artist Gordon Huether. The design features suspended laser-cut acrylic herons with dichroic film. The motion passed unanimously. - Bordeaux Gateway Project Artist Budget Increase: The committee recommended increasing the artist budget from $185,000 to $300,000 due to infrastructure complexities (N-DOT and T-DOT involvement). The motion passed. - Celestial Falls (Donaldson Library) Budget Increase: The committee recommended increasing the artist budget by $76,845.48 to cover increased material and labor costs. The artist, Amber Lelly, used 28 vendors, 24 local to Nashville, and trained local artists in guilding. The motion passed. - Grants and Funding Committee Report (Commissioner Jester): - The committee discussed delaying the grant funding cycle, the status of mural artist payments, and options for the Thrive program. Commissioner Jester noted that any changes would be made in concert with Metro Council. No decisions were made; the committee is still gathering feedback. - Commissioner Love emphasized that no decisions were made regarding Thrive or the grants process. - Budget and Oversight Committee Report (Commissioner Watts): - Commissioner Watts reported on meetings with HR, Legal, and Finance. She noted that the current FY24 budget is $5,461,700, while the requested FY25 budget is $13,653,400, more than double. She mentioned that FY25 is a flat budget year and that the budget questionnaire is due May 8, 2024. - Staff member Christina Affote detailed that $10.6 million of the $13.6 million request is for operating and Thrive grants. - Discussion included the expectation that grants may not always be fully funded, and the need for transparency in the budget process. - Executive Director Status (Motion and Discussion): - Commissioner Love made a motion to terminate Executive Director Daniel Singh, but later amended it to place him on administrative leave and begin searching for an interim director. The motion included administrative leave with pay. - Several commissioners expressed concerns about due process and the need to hear from Director Singh before making a final decision, but acknowledged the urgency of providing leadership to staff. - Staff members, including Darren Jackson (Communications Manager) and Ms. Davis, voiced support for an interim director, describing a leadership vacuum and the need for a "captain of the ship." - The motion to place Director Singh on administrative leave and begin an interim search passed unanimously via roll call vote. - Care Committee: Commissioner Harden was introduced as the new chair, committed to rebuilding trust through transparency and accountability. - Communications Update: Darren Jackson reported on a new initiative to create promotional media packages for public art installations, utilizing Metro departments to minimize costs. Key Outcomes - Approved: Old Hickory Community Center design "Wings of Time" (unanimous). - Approved: Bordeaux Gateway artist budget increase to $300,000. - Approved: Celestial Falls artist budget increase by $76,845.48. - Vote Failed: Motion to empower staffer Chris with budget authority (6 no, 1 abstention). - Passed Unanimously: Motion to place Executive Director Singh on administrative leave and begin a search for an interim director. - Directive: Commissioner Watts to work with HR to expedite the interim director appointment. - Special Meeting: Scheduled for April 25, 2024, to discuss executive director-related matters.

The Metro Arts Board of Commission held a specially called meeting on October 10, 2024, at 12:05 PM. The primary focus was on the status of Executive Director Daniel Singh, who is on continuous FMLA, and the selection of an interim director. After public comment and extensive deliberation, the commission clarified Singh's administrative leave and voted to appoint Dr. Paulette Coleman as interim executive director, subject to HR negotiation. Public Comments & Testimony - Will Schutz (National Opera) expressed that the arts community has lost confidence in Metro Arts due to Director Singh making promises without a plan, turning the community into a "circular firing squad." He called for restored confidence before advocating for more funding. - Damone Boyd urged the commission to tell the truth about Director Singh's ineptitude, claiming he failed to respond to Tennessee Arts Commission outreach and attempted to redirect mural funds. She stated it was time for Singh to move on and emphasized equity in funding and practice. - Lydia Yusuf defended Director Singh, criticizing the commission and staff for what she described as bullying and a lack of solidarity. She accused white commissioners of using staff to defund the arts and questioned the proposal to privatize grants. - Craig Robinson (Party for Socialism and Liberation) characterized the conflict as class war, accusing the "arts oligarchy" and Metro Law's Wallace Deets of limiting possibilities for artists. He called on artists to fight back. Discussion Items - Chair Love opened the meeting with a required notice about appeal rights per Metro Code. - Commissioner Watts reported on meetings with HR, Finance, and Legal regarding Director Singh's FMLA status. Singh is on continuous FMLA (about 9 of 12 weeks used). Administrative leave with pay was placed on the April 18 motion, but the commission needed to clarify whether it runs concurrently with FMLA. HR advised that concurrent leave preserves Singh's sick/vacation accruals. Debate ensued about the length of administrative leave and whether to terminate Singh. - Commissioner Jester made a motion to place Director Singh on paid administrative leave concurrent with FMLA until two weeks after his FMLA period ends. Commissioner Wade expressed concern about the leadership vacuum and the need for information from Singh, but others, including Commissioner Lefkowitz, stated no information would change their view that Singh is a bad leader. Jesse Ross (Public Art Coordinator) gave an impassioned defense of Singh, stating the chaos began after July and that Singh prioritized equity; he called the situation scapegoating. - Interim director selection: Three candidates were proposed: Mary Beth Harding (former Nashville Community Education Commission executive director), James Thrillkill (DEI consultant and artist), and Dr. Paulette Coleman (former Arts Commission chair and developer of Thrive). Commissioner Watts moved to hire Dr. Coleman, delegating employment terms to HR/Finance. After discussion about vetting and job descriptions, the motion passed. Commissioner West and others expressed discomfort with the rushed process. - Chair Love acknowledged receiving a letter from Singh's attorney that day and apologized for mischaracterizing prior communication. Key Outcomes - Motion to clarify administrative leave – Passed with 6 in favor, 1 opposed, 2 abstentions. Director Singh remains on paid administrative leave concurrent with FMLA until two weeks after FMLA ends (estimated May 30, 2024, based on FMLA start). - Motion to hire Dr. Paulette Coleman as interim executive director – Passed with 4 in favor, 3 opposed, 2 abstentions. (Legal clarified that the motion carried because the two abstentions did not count toward the majority requirement.) HR and Finance were delegated to negotiate terms and start date. Chair Love will coordinate communication with staff. - Next steps: HR to contact Dr. Coleman to confirm acceptance and negotiate employment terms. Commission will receive an update on budget and finance issues at the next meeting (May 16, 2024). The Care Committee (Commissioner Hardin) continues meeting with staff. - The commission did not terminate Director Singh at this meeting, and his status will be revisited after FMLA concludes.

The Metro Arts Commission met on October 9, 2024, under acting chair Leah Dupree Love. The meeting included public comments, updates from committees, and votes on several key actions related to governance, grant funding, and the ongoing Title VI complaint. The commission addressed tensions around equity, the executive director's FMLA status, and financial deficits. Public Comments & Testimony - Ashley Batchelter (Human Relations Commission) discussed the Title VI conciliation process, noting four recommendations: a public hearing, awarding grant amounts approved in July, establishing an equitable funding model, and a procedure guide for all boards. She emphasized broader city implications. - Reverend Tucker (MHRC) expressed gratitude for the mayor's announcement honoring the July 2023 vote but noted lingering concerns about governance and autonomy. - Will Schutz (Nashville Opera) reported that a grant from Metro Arts helped reach 24,765 children in seven weeks, with 37% (9,186) in Davidson County and 76% of schools being Title I. - Sengita Camborough delivered a sharply critical statement, accusing white commissioners of defunding equitable cycles, attacking the anti-racist director, and warning of national consequences. She claimed only one commissioner reached out to Arts Equity Nashville and that the commission has not denounce the August vote or the Griffin & Strong memo. Discussion Items - Approval of February Minutes: Moved to the April meeting due to unavailability. Motion carried. - Public Art Committee (Commissioner West, Jessica Ingram): - Amendment to Committee Composition: PAC changed from 7 to 9 members (3 commissioners, 6 community members, at least 2 visual artists). Approved. - Removal of PAC Approval for Selection Panels: To expedite awards. Approved. - Selection Panel Artists Requirement: At least 2 visual artists on panels. Approved. - Lending Library Acquisition: Approval of 54 artworks for five new library branches. Commissioner Watts requested demographic data on artists; staff noted no data was collected. Motion carried. - Oversight Committee (Commissioner Watts): - Discussed the finance director's memo to Metro Council regarding a deficit potentially exceeding $1 million and the finance department taking control of records. - Commissioner Love criticized the memo's tone and lack of professional courtesy. - Commissioner McCoy highlighted the deficit and need for financial accountability. - Motion passed to delegate oversight designee to work with finance staff on a plan to pay artists and gather details. - Additional motion to also consult Metro Legal and HR. Passed. - Luther Wright (Right) Report: Commissioner Jester called for robust discussion. Commissioner McCoy stressed protecting staff victimized. Commissioner Watts noted due process concerns as executive director is on FMLA. The commission decided to designate HR to conduct an interactive process regarding the director's return. Motion passed. - Executive Director Status: Director Singh currently on continuous FMLA. Motions passed to designate Shannon Hall for an interactive process and to authorize attorney Tyler Chance Yarborough to enter conciliation on the MHRC complaint. - Chair's Update: Chair Perez resigned; Leah Love acting chair. Appointed Commissioner Kurtz as acting vice chair. Commission also appointed Chair Love as point of contact for the MHRC attorney. - Grants Committee (Commissioner Jester): Reported 109 operating grants and 201 Thrive applications totaling over $10 million. Process stalled due to lack of leadership and clarity on rubrics. - New Commissioner Onboarding: Commissioner West requested reactivating a shared Google Drive for documents. Commissioner Lefowitz offered her compiled materials. Key Outcomes - Votes on Public Art Guidelines: All three amendments passed. - Lending Library Acquisition: 54 artworks approved. - Oversight Actions: Motion to designate a committee member to work with finance on payment plan (passed); additional motion to include legal and HR (passed). - FMLA Interactive Process: Motion passed to designate Shannon Hall to conduct the interactive process with Director Singh. - MHRC Complaint: Appointed Chair Love as contact; authorized attorney to enter conciliation discussions. - Acting Vice Chair: Commissioner Kurtz appointed. - Next Meeting: Grants committee scheduled for April 8; CARE committee for April 12.

This meeting of the Metro Arts Commission centered on financial oversight, staff treatment, grant transparency, and equity commitments. Commissioners heard extensive public comment, discussed a Metro Legal letter concerning financial management and HR investigations, debated the role of consultants, and received updates on an MHRC Title VI complaint and the cultural planning process. Key decisions included the formation of an ad hoc budget and administrative oversight committee, termination of a consultant contract, and deferral of public art items. Public Comments & Testimony - Simone Boyd (North Nashville resident) criticized the treatment of staff, lack of transparency, and what she called "theater" around equity. She stated that Director Singh had pushed out staff through "legal shenanigans" and that she had sought mental health support after interactions with him. She urged the commission to take the HR investigation seriously. - Cecilia (speaker) attacked financial stewardship, alleging that hundreds of thousands of dollars had gone to no-bid contractors. She claimed Director Singh admitted to making a "Ricky mistake" about $2 million in funding and that an employee (Van Mirabelli) had been on payroll without working for 18 months. She recommended dismantling the advocacy committee until proper stewardship is ensured. - Joseph Guterres (District 7 resident, grants manager at Data Marketmatics Fund) spoke about anti-racist and equity commitments. He described his foundation’s transformation from 10% BIPOC-led grantees in 2017 to 75% in 2023, emphasizing that the journey required struggle, internal disagreements, and board departures. - Alan Fay (yielding time to Simone Boyd) reiterated concerns about Director Singh's truthfulness, stating that the commission cannot achieve equity without a leader willing to tell the truth. He said many artists no longer apply for Metro Arts grants because the process is too painful. - Stephanie Pruitt Gaines (featured artist, former commissioner) shared her email and urged commissioners to reach out to local artists for insight, noting that individual artists are deeply invested in the creative community. - Janine Cristiano (former Metro Arts staff) and Cecilia "Alusila" Trible (former Metro Arts staff) called for individual accountability and honesty. Trible urged commissioners to review her HR interview and to understand institutional racism as a system of resource distribution. She offered to meet with commissioners to help move the institution forward. - Councilperson Joy Styles (District 32, chair of Public Facilities, Arts, and Culture) announced a specially called council meeting on February 26 at 6 p.m. to discuss transparency and the voting process. She invited commissioners to attend. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (January 25, 2024): Minutes were approved with one abstention. - Artist Spotlight: Stephanie Pruitt Gaines, a poet and social enterprise entrepreneur, shared her journey as a working poet and engaged the commission in a collaborative poem about Nashville arts. - Chair’s Report: Acting Chair Heather Lefkowitz read a letter from Chair Diana Perez appointing an ad hoc Budget and Administrative Oversight Committee to collaborate with Metro departments on financial and HR issues. New committee assignments were also announced (e.g., Heather Lefkowitz as secretary, Depree Love as chair of the Grants Committee). - Metro Legal Letter Discussion: The commission added this item to the agenda via motion. The letter, dated February 7, 2024, noted that $2 million in surplus funds could be made available but that an audit committee had approved a review of financial management. It also stated that multiple staff had reported workplace conduct violations, prompting an independent investigation by attorney Luther Wright. Commissioners expressed concerns about grant oversight, the increase in consultants from $220,000 to $440,000, and the lack of clarity on how Thrive grants and micro-organization grants are monitored. - Grants Process and Oversight: Commissioners questioned how grants are audited and the objectivity of rubrics. Grants manager Sydney Davis stated that the current rubric was created by a consultant and not adjusted for this cycle, and she had been told she cannot make changes until April. Director Singh defended the trust-based model and the increase in BIPOC applicants, while commissioners pressed for clearer standards and accountability. - Consultant Contracts: A motion was made to terminate the contract of consultant Dana Parsons. Staff indicated that her work was complete and that they could proceed without her. The motion passed with one abstention. - Human Relations Commission Update: Reverend Tucker reported on a Title VI complaint investigation by MHRC, focusing on the July and August votes regarding grants. He noted that 70% of Metro Arts funds have historically gone to 10 institutions. The report is nearly complete and will be presented at the next meeting. - Cultural Planning Update: Martin Cullen of Cultural Planning Group described the process as stalled due to internal transitions. He outlined a mixed-methodology approach involving community engagement and emphasized that the plan is meant to establish the municipality's role in supporting creative life. He noted that Justin Lang’s contract is a subcontract under CPG. Commissioners asked about the cost and timeline. - Anti-Racism and Equity Training: CARE committee chair Diana Perez (via Lefkowitz) reported on ongoing work. There was debate about proceeding with training amid pending legal claims and HR investigations. Commissioner Wade argued that delaying equity work perpetuates the problems. Director Singh reiterated that the foundational misalignment between CARE’s mandate and the commission’s actions must be resolved. Key Outcomes - Ad Hoc Oversight Committee Formed: Chair Perez appointed an ad hoc Budget and Administrative Oversight Committee (members: Lefkowitz, Cheek, Watts, Perez, Neflin, West, Jester) to work with Metro departments on financial and HR issues. - Motion to Discuss Metro Legal Letter Passed: The agenda was modified to include a discussion of the letter from Metro Legal. - Motion to Terminate Consultant Dana Parsons Passed: The commission voted to immediately end the contract/purchase orders with Dana Parsons. Motion carried with one abstention (Commissioner Watts). - Public Art Items Deferred: A motion passed to defer all public art agenda items to the next meeting (April 18, 2024, or a specially called March meeting). - Special Meetings Scheduled: The acting chair agreed to send out a Doodle poll for a specially called commission meeting in March and a separate grants committee meeting in March. - Minutes Approved: Minutes from January 25, 2024, were approved with one abstention. - Next Regular Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 18, 2024 (no March regular meeting).