There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

By the end of this month, the mayor must present his budget to the council and publically to the city. The city charter requires that the council receive the mayor's budget before the end of April. I presume that we will hear the most pressing parts of the budget on April 27th during this term's first State of Metro Address. 

I am anticipating the themes in this upcoming budget to be very heavy around public transportation, pedestrian and roadway infrastructure investments, and hopefully, we will see a few capital improvements that benefit District 21. I am however unsure if we will see a substantial portion of funding going towards the city's need for affordable housing. For years, we made investments in our affordable housing progress, but these investments have been minute and, truly, haven't put a dent into our affordable housing needs. 

Last term, the council approved two purchases of property, 88 Hermitage Ave and the former Hickory Hollow/Global Mall in Antioch, for a total of nearly $65 Million. Neither one of these properties has a plan in place for how they would be used. As most of us know, the toughest part in creating more housing is securing the land, well, we already have $65 million in land and I hope the mayor creates a plan to build much-needed housing on these sites mentioned above.

**Note, we failed to purchase the Morris building, which houses decades of black history in Nashville's rich heritage in the civil rights movement**

Moreover, we will soon see how the mayor will set the tone for our city's spending this term. This is by far one of the most important budgets this city will see over the next few years. At this time last term, we were in the midst of a global health pandemic, recovering from a devasting tornado, and facing receivership from the State of Tennessee. We are in a much better financial place than once before. We aren't completely out of the woods, but we do have an opportunity before us to help the most vulnerable in this city. Let's see if we can do just that.

What I've Been Up To:

• Crawling faster than the speed of light!! I remember when Baby P would just stay in one place... Well, those days are over and my attention is now glued to his little knees and hands as he crawls to any and every crevice of our home. He is one of the most inquisitive 9-month-olds I've ever seen.
• College Hill Neighborhood Preservation - The College Hill area is a historic gem in our district. With homes built and designed by McKissack and McKissack Architecture and Engineering firm.
  • This is still a top priority for the neighbors in this area. We are close to presenting a few ideas in the coming month or so. Stay tuned...
• Elizabeth Park, Jones=Buena Vista, and Buena Vista Heights Neighborhood traffic calming plan. I'm working with NDOT a small group of neighborhood leaders in these areas to create a plan to help slow the speed of traffic and limit the amount of vehicle-involved accidents in this area. Our goal is to install traffic calming measures to push through-traffic outside of the residential zone to the main throughways. 
• I'm also working with NDOT to rethink the round-a-bout at 28th and Jefferson. A few months ago, we hosted a meeting to receive feedback regarding a proposed round-a-bout at 28th Ave N and Jefferson St. NDOT is working through this feedback and we are preparing to follow up with a meeting to discuss what they feel they heard from the community.
• I'm hearing more from neighbors about loud parties at Short-Term Rental properties. I'm working with Codes to investigate these items. 
  • Please send any addresses you feel are not complying with Nashville's Short-Term Rental guidelines. We will add these properties to the investigation

What's Happening Tonight:  

The first five pages of tonight's agenda are boards and commissions confirmations. These roles are extremely important to the city of Nashville. The people on these boards make daily decisions on how this city runs. During the last council meeting, we added more structure to how these seats are filled. Our goal is to see more and more, everyday Nashvillians on these boards and commissions. 

Here are the items we updated for more structure regarding boards and commissions...

Rule 23: This rule relates to the mayor's appointment of board and commission members. This rule would require that the mayor's appointees join the rules committee two weeks before the council votes for appointment. This will allow for the council to provide proper vetting of these individuals who will lead important boards and commissions that make final decisions for the city.

Rule 50: This rule is similar to Rule 23. If passed it will change how the council adopts boards and commission members. It will require the same two-week period as Rule 23 and the applicant must present during the Rules Committee and will be considered by the entire council body for a vote in two weeks or at the next council meeting.

Here is my general legislation items section...

BL2024-305 -An ordinance authorizing the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by and through the Department of Parks and Recreation, to deaccession the Pre-Columbian collection from the Parthenon. 

RS2024-363 -A resolution accepting a grant from the Centennial Park Conservancy to the Metropolitan Government, acting by and through the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation, to provide funding for one part-time position in the Parthenon Museum Store.

BL2024-220 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from RS5 to R6-A zoning for property located at 1708 17th Ave. N

BL2024-258 -An ordinance declaring surplus certain real property and authorizing the Metropolitan Government's execution and delivery of a master development agreement and ground lease agreements related thereto, an amended and restated site coordination agreement, a campus operations and use
agreement, a declaration, and other documents and agreements relating to the development of a portion of the east bank stadium campus 

Dates To Remember:

• Check back for meeting dates and event reminders

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

Tornado Season is Upon Us

I wanted to get this out earlier than normal due to the Tornado Watch some of the county is under! Please take heed and prepare yourself!!

With tornado season upon us, it's crucial to be prepared and informed about what to do in the event of a tornado and how to stay safe. In this newsletter, I'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on tornado preparedness, including what to do before, during, and after a tornado, as well as essential tips to recognize the signs of an impending tornado.

Before a Tornado:

Create a Tornado Emergency Plan: Discuss with your family members or housemates where to seek shelter during a tornado. Identify a safe room in your home, preferably a basement or an interior room without windows, where everyone can gather during a tornado.

Build an Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit containing essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, blankets, and any necessary medications. Keep this kit easily accessible in your designated safe room.

Stay Informed: Keep abreast of weather forecasts and warnings issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). Sign up for weather alert notifications on your smartphone or invest in a NOAA Weather Radio to receive alerts even during power outages.

During a Tornado:

Seek Shelter Immediately: If a tornado warning is issued or you observe threatening weather conditions such as dark, rotating clouds or a roaring sound, take shelter in your safe room without delay. Avoid windows, doors, and exterior walls.

Protect Yourself: Cover your head and neck with sturdy furniture or cushions to shield yourself from flying debris. If you have access to helmets, heavy blankets, or even your mattress use them for extra protection.

Stay Informed: Continue to monitor weather updates via a battery-powered radio or smartphone until the tornado threat has passed. Be prepared to stay in your safe location until authorities confirm the all-clear signal.

After a Tornado:

Assess the Damage: Once the tornado has passed and it's safe to do so, cautiously emerge from your shelter and assess the damage to your property. Watch out for hazards such as downed power lines, broken glass, and unstable structures.

Check for Injuries: Attend to any injuries promptly and seek medical assistance if necessary. Remember to prioritize your safety and the safety of others before assessing property damage.

Contact Authorities: Report any injuries or significant damage to local emergency services. Follow instructions from authorities regarding evacuation or further safety measures.

Recognizing Tornado Signs:

Dark, Greenish Sky: Tornadoes can cause the sky to appear dark, often with a greenish tint, due to the presence of hail and debris in the air.

Large Hail: Intense thunderstorms preceding tornadoes may produce large hailstones, which can indicate the potential for tornado formation.

Rotating Clouds: Look for low-hanging clouds that rotate or exhibit a funnel-like shape, especially if accompanied by a continuous roaring sound resembling a freight train.

By following these steps and staying informed, you can minimize the risks associated with tornadoes and protect yourself and your loved ones. Remember, preparedness is key to weathering the storm safely.

What I've Been Up To:

• This is the season of sick... We started daycare and Baby P has had some sort of illness since we began. And so have mom and dad. We are working through it all, but it's taking a lot of time away from work to hang with a sick baby.
• College Hill Neighborhood Preservation - The College Hill area is a historic gem in our district. With homes built and designed by McKissack and McKissack Architecture and Engineering firm.
• Traffic Calming with NDOT - I've been in conversation with several neighborhoods in need of traffic calming for safer streets. I'm working to make sure our district is prioritized in this area.
• Development requests - If I had a nickel for every rezone, development request, etc. Baby P's inheritance would be outrageous!! I get calls and emails all day every day. I'm working through these, however, I prioritize constituents in my work. In the coming months, a few of these requests would have been vetted and I will then introduce them to you for a presentation.
• I'm hearing more from neighbors about loud parties at Short Term Rental properties. I'm working with Codes to investigate these items. 
• There has been a request for a DADU overlay in the Tomorrow's Hope neighborhood. I'm working now to schedule a community meeting to discuss later this month.

What's Happening tonight:  

Tonight we have a few Rule Changes... These are the rules by which the council body acts to serve the city and manage the city's business. I wanted to highlight a few rule changes that you should review.

Rule 23: This rule relates to the mayor's appointment of board and commission members. This rule would require that the mayor's appointees join the rules committee two weeks before the council votes for appointment. This will allow for the council to provide proper vetting of these individuals who will lead important boards and commissions that make final decisions for the city.

Rule 50: This rule is similar to Rule 23. If passed it will change how the council adopts boards and commission members. It will require the same two-week period as Rule 23 and the applicant must present during the Rules Committee and will be considered by the entire council body for a vote in two weeks or at the next council meeting.

Here is my general legislation items section...

BL2024-220 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from RS5 to R6-A zoning for property located at 1708 17th Ave. N., approximately 250 feet northwest of Wheless Street (0.19 acres) and located within a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit Overlay District

RS2024-353 -A resolution opposing legislation vacating the state university board of Tennessee State University and allowing the management, governance, powers, and duties to be transferred to the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.

BL2024-254 - An ordinance to amend Title 15 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws relative to infrastructure investment for offsite construction. This is essentially a who pays for what bill. Currently, there are services the developer is required to cover the cost of when building. One of the items in this bill would allow for the developer to recoup any investment for creating offsite value for future projects for up to 15 years.

BL2024-293 -An ordinance amending Chapter 15.64 and Chapter 16.04 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to restrict fences in the floodway and floodplain and to require a fence permit for all fences to be constructed within Nashville and Davidson County.

Dates To Remember:

• Check back for meeting dates and event reminders

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

The mayor is unveiling updated conceptual maps. These maps are an extension of the initial concepts presented at the Technical Advisory Committee meeting on March 6. 

The "Choose How You Move – An All-Access Pass to Sidewalks, Signals, Service, and Safety" initiative focuses on four core areas:

Sidewalks: The concept maps propose constructing up to 86 additional miles of sidewalks, connecting bustling neighborhoods to major corridors and providing safer pedestrian and cyclist routes.

Signals: Improvement plans encompass approximately 600 traffic signals, particularly along major corridors, utilizing technology to enhance traffic flow efficiency and coordination based on demand.

Service: The maps outline 38 miles of BRT lanes, shaped by public input, which aim to expedite travel along busy corridors such as Dickerson Road, Gallatin Road, Murfreesboro Road, and Nolensville Road.

The mayor has mentioned that they will be hosting engagement events to hear from neighbors. You can review his entire map plan here. Please continue to share your thoughts on the plan. As we move closer toward budget season, I will be interested in your voice and your thoughts on the transit planning from the mayor.

What's Happening tonight:  

RS2024-293 -A resolution exempting 1008 28th Ave N, from the minimum distance requirements for obtaining a Short Term Rental Property - Not Owner-Occupied permit 

RS2024-294 - A resolution exempting 1010 28th Ave N, from the minimum distance requirements for obtaining a Short Term Rental Property - Not Owner-Occupied permit

RS2024-295 - A resolution exempting 1012 28th Ave N, from the minimum distance requirements for obtaining a Short Term Rental Property - Not Owner-Occupied permit

RS2024-296 - A resolution exempting 1014 28th Ave N, from the minimum distance requirements for obtaining a Short Term Rental Property - Not Owner-Occupied permit

RS2024-288 -A resolution requesting the Metropolitan Planning Department, Metropolitan Department of Codes and Building Safety, Historic Preservation Offices, Metro Water Services, and Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure to conduct the necessary technical studies, as determined by the departments, to provide a comprehensive analysis of recommended changes to the Metropolitan Code of Laws that would increase allowable density in Nashville and Davidson County and make recommendations regarding land use policy which incorporates affordable and workforce housing strategies that can be supported by existing and planned infrastructure.

RS2024-310 - A resolution accepting an in-kind grant from the Centennial Park Conservancy to the Metropolitan Government, acting by and through the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation, to fund the purchase and installation of an Art Sentry Security System at the Parthenon.

Dates To Remember:

• Neighborhood Community Meeting
  • RE: Transition Policy Update - 1809 9th Ave N
  • Meeting Date: Thursday, March 28th, 2024
  • Meeting Location: Crossroads - 1757 16th Ave N
  • Meeting Time: 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

COYBIG - Come On You Boys In Gold!!

The excitement is palpable as Nashville SC and Inter Miami prepare to ignite the stadium with their fervent Concacaf clash tonight. In a match brimming with potential, both teams enter the arena with a fire in their hearts and a singular goal: victory. As the night unfolds, spectators can expect a spectacle of soccer brilliance, where every pass, tackle, and goal holds the promise of glory.

Adding to the excitement is the presence of Lionel Messi, the legendary maestro of the beautiful game, donning the colors of Inter Miami. With Messi's unparalleled skill and vision on the field, the stakes are raised even higher, as Nashville SC must contend with one of the greatest players of all time. Yet, Nashville SC is not to be underestimated. They boast their own roster of formidable talent, including the League MVP Hany Mukhtar, along with USMNT players Walker Zimmerman, Tyler Boyd, and Shaq Moore, each bringing their own unique skill set and experience to the pitch. With such exceptional players leading the charge, Nashville SC is poised to make a statement and prove their mettle on the international stage.

As the referee's whistle signals the start of the match, the tension reaches its zenith, with fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the drama to unfold. It's a clash of titans, a battle of wills, where every moment is charged with the possibility of ecstasy or despair. In this thrilling encounter, Nashville SC and Inter Miami will leave it all on the pitch, chasing victory with relentless passion and determination. So, COYBIG, brace yourselves for a night of unforgettable soccer action, as Nashville SC and Inter Miami collide in a showdown destined to etch its place in CONCACAF history.

County-wide Zoning Updates 

A few weeks ago, the zoning legislation below was filed. There have been several conversations throughout the county regarding these items. I've heard from many of you and I will follow your lead, I am not in support of several of these items. I have asked the sponsors to join me in a community meeting prior to next month. I'll keep you posted...

• BL2024-182 -An ordinance to amend Title 16 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to clarify who may update the official website regarding issuance of permits and notices, remove requirements for washer and dryer hookups in certain homes, remove and separate bathroom facilities at gas stations, and add regulations to permit large homes with three to six attached dwelling units.
• BL2024-183 -An ordinance to amend Title 16 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to provide for housing, health, and safety of residents by streamlining Codes provisions related to fireproofing requirements for middle housing creation and conversion, including specifically the creation of a class of Large Unit Homes within the International Building Code and providing for NFPA-13D sprinklers and one-hour fire-resistance-rated separation therefor.
• BL2024-184 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to amend the definitions of multi-family and residence for handicapped, more than eight individuals; update references related to accessory building, detached, detached accessory dwelling, and detached accessory dwelling unit for consistency; add bar/night club as a permitted use in certain industrial districts; add daycare as a permitted with conditions use in certain districts, and to add a definition for half story related to contextual overlays
• REPORTED TO BE WITHDRAWN BL2024-185 -An ordinance to amend Section 6.28.030, Section 13.12.110, and Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County relative to the creation of the "residential scale multi-family" residential use, all of which is more particularly described herein.
• REPORTED TO BE WITHDRAWN BL2024-186 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, to add the two-family use as a conditionally permitted use to the RS and RS-A zoning districts and amend the conditions for the two-family use in the AG, AR2A, R, and R-A zoning districts, all of which is more particularly described herein (Proposal No. 2024Z-006TX-001).
• BL2024-187 -An ordinance amending Section 17.08.030 of the Metropolitan Code, Zoning Regulations to change the Single Family, Two Family, and Multi-family uses from being permitted conditionally to being permitted by right in the CS - Commercial Service CS-NS - Commercial Service No Short Term Rental, CS-A - Commercial Services Alternative, and CS-A-NS Commercial Service Alternative No Short Term Rental zoning districts (Proposal No. 2024Z-004TX-001).
• BL2024-187 -An ordinance amending Section 17.08.030 of the Metropolitan Code, Zoning Regulations to change the Single Family, Two Family, and Multi-family uses from being permitted conditionally to being permitted by right in the CS - Commercial Service CS-NS - Commercial Service No Short Term Rental, CS-A - Commercial Services Alternative, and CS-A-NS Commercial Service Alternative No Short Term Rental zoning districts (Proposal No. 2024Z-004TX-001).
• BL2024-188 -An ordinance amending Section 17.12.020 of the Metropolitan Code, Zoning Regulations to eliminate minimum lot areas for multi-family, mobile homes, and non-residential uses in RM - Residential Multi-Family zoning districts (Proposal No. 2024Z-003TX-001).

What's Happening tonight:  

We do not have an extremely exciting calendar tonight. The items I listed above are going to be reviewed next month. These are major topics of discussion. Even though two are reported to be withdrawn, there are still a few glaring problems with the county-wide zoning proposals. 

Dates To Remember:

• Check back for meeting dates and event reminders

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow and predicted that there would be an early Spring!

Transit Referendum

Earlier this month, the mayor of Nashville announced plans to initiate a referendum aimed at determining a funding source for his proposed transit plan. The mayor's vision centers on enhancing various aspects of transportation infrastructure, including sidewalks, buses, traffic signalization, and pedestrian safety. During his press conference, he emphasized that the focus of the plan is not on implementing grand-scale transit projects like electronic light rail systems, but rather on addressing fundamental elements of multi-modal transportation.

It's essential to recognize that this plan may catalyze discussions regarding our annual budget. While initiatives like improving sidewalks and bolstering pedestrian safety are crucial and should already be prioritized, questions linger regarding how this plan will tackle broader-scale challenges related to traffic management within the city.

With a 15-minute meeting scheduled with the mayor and his team next week, I anticipate gaining more insights into the specifics of the proposal. I aim to delve deeper into how this plan aligns with our city's long-term transportation goals and addresses the pressing needs of our growing urban landscape. I look forward to sharing more detailed information following the meeting.

What I've Been Up To:

• We have had some sort of sickness in our home since Baby P started daycare! We're much better, but far from all of us being 100%! This was not in the warranty book the hospital gave us when we left with our new baby.
• Working with MDHA to assist Parthenon Towers with several complaints. We are planning a meeting with the residents and MDHA leadership in the coming weeks.
• City-Wide zoning legislation - I have had a few conversations with community groups regarding the city-wide zoning legislation that has been filed. I will be hosting a Town Hall in March to discuss with the entire district further.
• Traffic Calming meeting with NDOT to be held next week. I'm meeting with NDOT to discuss traffic calming and speeding in the District.
• Buchanan and DB Todd corner activity - I am meeting with the DA's office and the Chief of Police to discuss this matter further in the coming weeks.

What's Happening tonight:  

RS2024-194 - This is the Capital Spending Plan. The amount is totaled at$514,055,000. Click here to review the article attached to this resolution that explains where these dollars will be spent throughout the county. 

RS2024-262 -A resolution honoring the life of Nathaniel Harris.

Dates To Remember:

• Check back for meeting dates and event reminders

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

Hello everyone... I've been under the weather. I guess I'm running the daycare sniffles gauntlet!!

With that said, let's get right to it...

There are a few highlights that we will be discussing tonight... There are a number of comment periods. Some that require pre-sign ups and others that are legislative specific. You may or may not have heard about several zoning items that will impact the entire county that have been filed by two of my colleagues. These items are all on first reading (which we generally pass on first reading and discuss more on 2nd and 3rd reading), but I believe we will have detailed discussion on these topic... 

• BL2024-182 -An ordinance to amend Title 16 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to clarify who may update the official website regarding issuance of permits and notices, remove requirements for washer and dryer hookups in certain homes, remove and separate bathroom facilities at gas stations, and add regulations to permit large homes with three to six attached dwelling units.
• BL2024-183 -An ordinance to amend Title 16 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to provide for housing, health, and safety of residents by streamlining Codes provisions related to fireproofing requirements for middle housing creation and conversion, including specifically the creation of a class of Large Unit Homes within the International Building Code and providing for NFPA-13D sprinklers and one-hour fire-resistance-rated separation therefor.
• BL2024-184 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to amend the definitions of multi-family and residence for handicapped, more than eight individuals; update references related to accessory building, detached, detached accessory dwelling, and detached accessory dwelling unit for consistency; add bar/night club as a permitted use in certain industrial districts; add daycare as a permitted with conditions use in certain districts, and to add a definition for half story related to contextual overlays
• BL2024-185 -An ordinance to amend Section 6.28.030, Section 13.12.110, and Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County relative to the creation of the "residential scale multi-family" residential use, all of which is more particularly described herein.
• BL2024-186 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, to add the two-family use as a conditionally permitted use to the RS and RS-A zoning districts and amend the conditions for the two-family use in the AG, AR2A, R, and R-A zoning districts, all of which is more particularly described herein (Proposal No. 2024Z-006TX-001).
  
  • This is the big one... This legislation will allow for all single family housing in District 21 and other districts to permit (allow), without rezoning from the district council member, two houses on one lot. This will remove the discretion of the district council member and be permitted wholly throughout.
• BL2024-187 -An ordinance amending Section 17.08.030 of the Metropolitan Code, Zoning Regulations to change the Single Family, Two Family, and Multi-family uses from being permitted conditionally to being permitted by right in the CS - Commercial Service CS-NS - Commercial Service No Short Term Rental, CS-A - Commercial Services Alternative, and CS-A-NS Commercial Service Alternative No Short Term Rental zoning districts (Proposal No. 2024Z-004TX-001).
• BL2024-187 -An ordinance amending Section 17.08.030 of the Metropolitan Code, Zoning Regulations to change the Single Family, Two Family, and Multi-family uses from being permitted conditionally to being permitted by right in the CS - Commercial Service CS-NS - Commercial Service No Short Term Rental, CS-A - Commercial Services Alternative, and CS-A-NS Commercial Service Alternative No Short Term Rental zoning districts (Proposal No. 2024Z-004TX-001).
• BL2024-188 -An ordinance amending Section 17.12.020 of the Metropolitan Code, Zoning Regulations to eliminate minimum lot areas for multi-family, mobile homes, and non-residential uses in RM - Residential Multi-Family zoning districts (Proposal No. 2024Z-003TX-001).

What I've Been Up To:

• As I mentioned, Baby P has given us all the daycare sniffles... We are just circling the wagons with cold medicines over here!
• Google Fiber: You've probably seen the wires, holes in the easement area of your yard, 
• I'm still looking to host a few dinner nights at local restaurants in the District. Please email a few of your favorite spots in the District and we'll send a note out and have everyone join us for dinner.
  • I received a few restaurants, but need some more recommendations. I want to start this program soon.
• 2618 Buchanan St. - They have received a stop operation order. They have been hosting events in a non-permitted property (residential) that have had several violent occurrences. MNPD and Metro Codes are working on this for a permanent solution.
• Traffic Calming conversations are happening with NDOT - There are several areas that you have brought to my attention, and we are moving forward with connecting NDOT to these areas for studies.

What's Happening tonight:  

See above... 

Dates To Remember:

• Check back for meeting dates and event reminders

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

Embracing the Spirit of the Season and Looking Towards a Bright New Year

As we approach the festive holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

This year has been filled with challenges, triumphs, and countless opportunities for growth. Throughout it all, our community has shown resilience, unity, and a steadfast commitment to supporting one another. As your city councilman, I am continually inspired by the strength of our community and the passion that drives us to create a better future for all.

This holiday season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and, most importantly, a time for coming together. Our city is not just a collection of streets and buildings; it's a vibrant tapestry of diverse individuals, each contributing to the unique fabric of our community. It is this diversity that makes us strong, and I am proud to represent such a wonderful and dynamic group of people.

Looking back on the year, I am grateful for the opportunities we've had to make a positive impact throughout the city. Whether it's supporting local businesses, advocating for much needed infrastructure investments, or working towards a more sustainable future, our shared commitment to community development and growth is evident.

In the spirit of the season, let us cherish the moments spent with loved ones, express gratitude for the blessings we have, and carry the warmth of community into the New Year. May the coming weeks be filled with joy, prosperity, and the realization of our shared goals.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Prosperous New Year to each and every one of you!

Updated Council Calendar

The Metro Council voted to have only one council meeting in the month of January. That meeting will be on January 16. Following this evenings meeting, I will close the office and will not return until after the Holidays! 

What I've Been Up To:

• Preparing for Baby P's first Christmas!! No, we did not go all out, however, we are excited to share a special moment with him.
  • Hopefully family will want to spend time with Baby P while mom and I sleep!!
  • I'm also pretty stoked about Baby P's best friend, Baby J!!! WE CAN'T WAIT TO MEET YOU!
• Clarksville Hwy/DB Todd will have a few more weeks of work until the crews are completely finished and out of the way.
• Community meetings galore... Last week I closed out a gauntlet of community meetings. From Baseball, to developments, to roadway and bike lanes.
  • Be on the lookout for new scheduled meetings at the top of the year.
• I'm looking to host a few dinner nights at local restaurants in the District. Please email a few of your favorite spots in the District and we'll send a note out and have everyone join us for dinner.
• Met with the mayor
  • We discussed:
    • Working with him to invest directly into Jefferson street
    • Finding a financial stream of funding to support non-profit child care operations that have a sliding pay scale based on your income level
    • Completing the funding to construct a brand-new Hadley Park Library
    • Creating opportunities for a Grocer store in North Nashville
    • Investing in the District's Parks - Yes, even Centennial Park!
    • Working with Fisk, Meharry, and Tennessee State to find funding and housing for their students
• Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

What's Happening tonight:  

Just as last meeting, this agenda is fairly short. We have several consent agenda items that are simple "keep the business of the city going" items. There isn't a lot to report in terms of legislation.

Dates To Remember:

• Check back for meeting dates and event reminders

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

Happy 117th Anniversary to the Men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated - 426

I am a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha - I was initiated into the Kappa Eta Chapter at the University of Memphis in the Fall of 2002.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, is the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men. Founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, Alpha Phi Alpha was created with the mission of promoting brotherhood, academic excellence, and social advocacy.

The fraternity was founded by seven visionary men known as the "Seven Jewels." These distinguished individuals are Henry Arthur Callis, Charles Henry Chapman, Eugene Kinckle Jones, George Biddle Kelley, Nathaniel Allison Murray, Robert Harold Ogle, and Vertner Woodson Tandy. Together, they laid the foundation for a fraternity that would become a driving force in the advancement of African American communities.

Over the years, Alpha Phi Alpha has produced a remarkable roster of members who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some notable Alphas include civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Nobel laureate and physicist Dr. Ernest Everett Just, Olympic gold medalist Jesse Owens, pioneering surgeon Dr. Charles R. Drew, and renowned jazz musician Lionel Hampton. These individuals, among many others, have exemplified the fraternity's commitment to leadership, scholarship, and service, leaving an indelible mark on history.

Alpha Phi Alpha continues to be a force for positive change, promoting education, community service, and the empowerment of its members as they strive to uphold the fraternity's principles of "Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for All Mankind."

Pearl Cohn High School - STATE CHAMPIONS

On Saturday, December 3rd, Pearl Cohn won the TSSAA State Championship game against Upperman with a score of 36-27. This victory is not only exciting for the student-athletes and coaches, but it's also a source of great excitement for the surrounding community. Last season, the Firebirds came up short in the state championship game, losing 34-30. However, their tenacity, resilience, and drive led them to victory this season.

Please join me in congratulating the Pearl Cohn High School football team on a job well done.

Florida State Didn't make it...

This is unrelated to District 21 or Metro Nashville; nevertheless, I wanted to share with you that I firmly believe Florida State should be in the College Football Playoffs. Alabama and Texas are ahead of them in the rankings, each with a respective loss on their records, while Florida State, a Power 5 Conference Champion, went undefeated. This is a travesty for those young men who worked hard, even through tough times, for them not to have an opportunity to play for the National Championship.

What I've Been Up To:

• Baby P is learning a lot of new skills... This is keeping mom and dad on their toes!!
• I'm still working with NDOT regarding several traffic calming requests that have come my way. I have a meeting next week with the NDOT director to review ideas in some areas
  • If you see traffic calming needs in your area, contact me and also, complete the Traffic Calming application. Click here for the website to the application.
• I mentioned that a North Nashville Community Study to evaluate mobility and reconnection is happening. This RFQ just hit the street for the city to partner with a planning group to assist in this study.
• DB Todd and Clarksville Hwy - The paving has been completed and now you will see crews striping the roadway and tinkering with the stop lights to synchronize the traffic.
• I've been spending a lot of overtime at my day job as this is the most crucial part of the year for me.
• Over the last few weeks, their has been an uptick in constituent calls for service. This gets bumped to the top so that I can make sure your requests aren't going unanswered.

What's Happening tonight:  

The agenda is fairly short with one major ordinance that will be discussed. That ordinance is BL2023-113. We will have a hefty discussion on this topic. It is in regards to MNPD getting a new contract (which they are currently in a contract) for tasers. These tasers will cost more and we will have to back out of the current contract, which may have a fiscal appropriation to do so.

BL2023-113 -An ordinance approving Amendment Number 1 to Contract number 6488663 between the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County ("Metro") and Axon Enterprise, Inc., to add an optional renewal term of up to 120 months and to increase the value of the contract.

Dates To Remember:

• THIS WEEK: 
  • Heiman St. and Scovel Proposed Developments - House of God Properties Community Meeting
    • December 7
    • 6:00 PM
    • House of God Church | 2714 Scovel St

• THIS WEEK:

  • This meeting is called by NDOT not CM Taylor - Please be Advised!

    • 31st Ave N - Bike Lane and Paving Project

      • December 7

      • 5:00 PM

      • Centennial Performing Arts Studio - Centennial Park

• Traffic Roundabout at Jefferson and 28th Ave N Community Meeting (Tentative)
  • December 14
  • 6:00 PM
  • Hadley Park Community Center | 1037 28th Ave N
• MLB Baseball Stadium Discussion
  • December 12 
  • 6:00 PM
  • Hadley Park Community Center | 1037 28th Ave N

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

Happy Thanksgiving

As we gather around the table with loved ones and reflect on the blessings in our lives, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible city we call home. District 21 is the heartbeat of our shared experiences, and I am thankful for each one of you who make it vibrant, diverse, and full of life. Serving you is not just a duty, but a profound privilege, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the well-being and progress of this remarkable place we all call home. As we approach Thanksgiving, let's celebrate the spirit of togetherness that defines us, recognizing the strength that emerges when a community comes together in thankfulness.

Jefferson Street CAP Conversation Continued

You may have seen an article from the Nashville Post or Nashvlle Scene about the Jefferson Street Cap Conversation resurfacing. Metro Planning and NDOT have sent out a RFQ to find a firm to create much better community engagement than the first CAP approach as well as study the mobility and infrastructure in the area. I was quoted several times in this article, and my goal is to keep the opportunity of this amount of investment in the District, specifically North Nashville. I believe the study will be helpful in allowing us as a community to review solutions to increasing more connection and mobility in our neighborhoods. However, the CAP may or may not be the answer. This new approach gives the community the steering wheel and both the city and the community members will decide how we best can use any investments from the federal fund that the city is targeting.

Please share this newsletter with your neighbors, this will be how I communicate with you about this ongoing topic.

What I've Been Up To:

• Baby boy is busy trying to crawl! Keeping Mom and I on our toes!
• I'm still working with NDOT regarding several traffic calming requests that have come my way. I have a meeting next week with the NDOT director to review ideas in some areas
  • If you see traffic calming needs in your area, contact me and also, complete the Traffic Calming application. Click here for the website to the application.
• I mentioned that a North Nashville Community Study to evaluate mobility and reconnection is happening. This RFQ just hit the street for the city to partner with a planning group to assist in this study.
• DB Todd and Clarksville Hwy - The paving project is happening now. The final pavings will take place once we have a dry spell of weather. The goal was to have this project complete by Thanksgiving, but the rain this week slowed us down.
• Childcare has been a major issue for families in Nashville, really throughout the entire state of Tennessee. I am working with Metro Finance, United Way, and a set of childcare centers to provide continued funding for centers to provide a sliding rate scale for all families no matter their income.
• 31st Ave N - I am working with NDOT to find a date and time to visit for you all to share your feedback following the bike lanes pilot.

Upcoming Community Events

What's Happening tonight:  

There are several boards and commissions elections and appointments tonight. Last meeting, we briefly tackled this in my newsletter.

This link takes you to the site that shares each Board and Commission and their roles. This may be of interest to you to learn more or you may be interested to be appointed to one of these roles. If so, I'd be more than happy to discuss that with you.

We have a number of items to discuss tonight about boards and commissions.

RS2023-100 -A resolution exempting Tio Fun Mexican Munchies, located at 1008 Buchanan Street from the minimum distance requirements for obtaining a beer permit

RS2023-Late Resolution -A resolution urging the Mayor of the Metropolitan Government to pursue all options to ensure the preservation of the Morris Memorial Building, including using the building to house a museum dedicated to African American and Civil Rights history.

BL2023-113 -An ordinance approving Amendment Number 1 to Contract number 6488663 between the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County (“Metro”) and Axon Enterprise, Inc., to add an optional renewal term of up to 120 months and to increase the value of the contract. - This is the purchase of new tasers for MNPD.

BL2023-54 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from RS5 to R6-A zoning for property located at 2810 Georgia Ave

BL2023-64 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from RS5 to R6-A for property located at 2406 Merry Street

BL2023-68 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from CS to MUN-A-NS zoning for property located at 1829 Jo Johnston Ave.

Dates To Remember:

• Heiman St. and Scovel Proposed Developments - House of God Properties Community Meeting
  • December 7
  • 6:00 PM
  • House of God Church | 2714 Scovel St
• Traffic Roundabout at Jefferson and 28th Ave N Community Meeting (Tentative)
  • December 14
  • 6:00 PM
  • Hadley Park Community Center | 1037 28th Ave N
• MLB Baseball Stadium Discussion
  • December 12 
  • 6:00 PM
  • Hadley Park Community Center | 1037 28th Ave N

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon

There is a Metro Council Meeting tonight at 6:30 pm. An agenda has been provided and you can watch the meeting live via channel 3 or stream live on your electronic devices. Also, please do not respond to this email... You can reach me at [email protected].

Capital Planning

It's that time again... Each fall, the council is asked to present our Capital Improvements Budget (CIB). This is basically a wishlist for Council Members. Our goal is to get these projects in the mayor's Capital Spending Plan (CSP) during budget. A capital project is a project to construct either new facilities or make significant, long-term renewal improvements to existing facilities (buildings, roadways, sidewalks, parks, etc.). I am in the process of collecting data for capital improvements throughout the District. 

I am asking you to send me an email at [email protected] with the subject titled "Capital Projects in My Neighborhood" and share with me any capital improvements that you think is needed. If your project is feasible and meets the qualifications of a capital project, I will add it to my CIB. Once added to the CIB, we must continue to lobby the mayor and the department the project falls under. By doing this, it will show the importance on this project, and we can ask the mayor to prioritize our CIB requests for them to be added in the upcoming CSP.

What I've Been Up To:

• I have been out of the office for a day or two celebrating the University of Memphis Homecoming. I was honored to be recognized by the Black Alumni Association the the Memphis State Eight - John Simpson Award!
• Sleep has avoided me as my son develops his motor skills, means that he likes to pull all nighters and sleep all day!!
• I'm still working with NDOT regarding several traffic calming requests that have come my way. I have a meeting next week with the NDOT director to review ideas in some areas
  • If you see traffic calming needs in your area, contact me and also, complete the Traffic Calming application. Click here for the website to the application.
• I mentioned that a North Nashville Community Study to evaluate mobility and reconnection is happening. This RFQ just hit the street for the city to partner with a planning group to assist in this study.
• DB Todd and Clarksville Hwy - The paving project is happening now. The roads were closed this weekend along Clarksville Hwy, and you will see a set of closures for this coming weekend as well. Prepare Accordingly!
• Alley clean ups - I'm in communication with NDOT regarding alley clean ups. Not just bulk item and litter, we are planning to have a few day to visit alleys to cut back brush, pick up bulk items, and simply refresh the alleys. We are currently looking for alleys to add to the list, so if you know of an alley that desperately needs cleaning and trimming, send them my way... Call or email. 
  • In this effort, we are also looking for neighbors to help... Bring your chainsaws, trimmers, brush cutters, you name it to come help clean up. Once the dates and areas have been confirmed, I'll let you know
• Childcare has been a major issue for families in Nashville, really throughout the entire state of Tennessee. I am working with Metro Finance, United Way, and a set of childcare centers to provide continued funding for centers to provide a sliding rate scale for all families no matter their income.
• 31st Ave N - There is a project along 31st Ave N that has caught many residents attention. This project upgrades will continue as planned (traffic calming, crosswalks, resurfacing, paving and sidewalks). However, the bike lanes conversation will continue. NDOT held their pilot with the bike lanes and removal of the traffic lanes. That has completed and I'm working to have a final community meeting to receive feedback from residents in the area. Once this is scheduled, I will send information to you promptly.

Upcoming Community Events

Please Send any Community Events you are having and I will post it on my Newsletter.

What's Happening tonight:  

I do not often discuss the Elections and Confirmations portion of the meeting calendar, but I wanted to point it out. When you clicked on the agenda at the top of this newsletter, you open the agenda directly at the Elections and Confirmations portion of the agenda. The list of board and commission confirmations, nominations and openings are there for review. These Boards and Commissions are important, as they make decisions based in the interpretation of the law within their respective areas. This link takes you to the site that shares each Board and Commission and their roles. This may be of interest to you to learn more or you may be interested to be appointed to one of these roles. If so, I'd be more than happy to discuss that with you.

We have a number of items to discuss tonight about boards and commissions.

BL2023 - 74 - This bill is in reference to traffic upgrades along Jefferson St. at 21st Ave N and 28th Ave N. This includes a plan for a round-a-bout at 28th and Jefferson. I will defer this bill and bring back after further community engagement. - I will withdraw this Bill

BL2023-54 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from RS5 to R6-A zoning for property located at 2810 Georgia Ave

BL2023-60 - An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from RS5 to R6 zoning for property located at 2400 Buchanan Street

BL2023-64 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from RS5 to R6-A for property located at 2406 Merry Street

BL2023-68 -An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from CS to MUN-A-NS zoning for property located at 1829 Jo Johnston Ave

Dates To Remember:

• 42nd Ave N (near Clifton and 40th) Proposed Developments Community Meeting
  • November 16
  • 5:30 PM
  • Preston Taylor Ministries | 4014 Indiana Ave
• Heiman St. and Scovel Proposed Developments - House of God Properties Community Meeting
  • December 7
  • 6:00 PM
  • House of God Church | 2714 Scovel St
• Traffic Roundabout at Jefferson and 28th Ave N Community Meeting (Tentative)
  • December 14
  • 6:00 PM
  • Hadley Park Community Center | 1037 28th Ave N
• MLB Baseball Stadium Discussion
  • December 12 
  • 6:00 PM
  • Hadley Park Community Center | 1037 28th Ave N

I invite all District 21 residents to reach out to me directly with any information or concerns in our community. Email is the best form of communication, but invite you to call me as well. My contact information is below.

Contact information: Email - [email protected] / Phone: 615.946.9700

Best regards,

Brandon