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

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].

Titans went to London

This isn't necessarily city business, but it is something to talk about. Our Titans hopped over the pond and came home 2-4. With a 24 - 16 loss to the the Ravens has Titan fans scratching their heads. At least we have a BYE week which will give them time to rest and reset. Let's hope that our results are different on October 29.

Open Streets Nashville

This Sunday, Open Streets Nashville will be hosting thier annual event. Open Streets is a program by Walk Bike Nashville and the Nashville Department of Transportation that temporarily closes the streets to cars to encourage people to reconnect to their communities, get active, support local businesses, and play in the street. Open Streets is designed to stir the imagination to rethink public spaces - understanding that our streets can have a multitude of uses.

What I've Been Up To:

• I held a community meeting regarding the upgrades along 31st Ave N. Follow this link to find more information following our meeting
• I'm still Dadding!!
• I'm working with NDOT regarding several traffic calming requests that have come my way. 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'm working with Planning and NDOT on a North Nashville infrastructure and land use study. We are working to see where we can add value in the area for our traffic mobility, pedestrian mobility, overall infrastructure health and needs evaluation, and how this all ties into future development. The most important piece is how this will tie into the community that we have now and growing this community for all neighbors.
• I've Scheduled a community meeting for neighbors along Dr. DB Todd Jr. Blvd. and Clarksville Hwy to discuss the paving and infrastructure upgrades. That meeting will be held on Thursday at 6pm at the North Nashville Police Precinct.
• Jefferson St. - I've been in conversation with NDOT and Metro Planning regarding our vision for Jefferson St. This is a topic that is near and dear to many of you and I will be planning a meeting later this year to have an open conversation regarding how the community would like to see Jefferson St. Reconstructed. 
• 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

Upcoming Community Events

What's Happening tonight:  

RS2023-45 - A resolution approving a Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (Pro Housing) grant application from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the Metropolitan Government, acting by and through the Metropolitan Planning Commission, to eliminate barriers to housing security, particularly for low to moderate income families.

RS2023-57 - A resolution honoring the life of former Chancellor and Tennessee Court of Appeals Judge Richard H. Dinkins.

RS2023-59 -A resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Fisk University radio station WFSK.

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.

BL2023 - 70 - An ordinance to amend Section 13.08.040 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws related to the offering of merchandise for sale on or near public property.

Dates To Remember:

• Clarksville Hwy Paving Project Community Meeting
  • G-Spot Conversation
  • Traffic Calming Conversation 
    • October 19
    • 6:00 PM
    • North Police Precinct
• 42nd Ave N (near Clifton and 40th) Proposed Developments Community Meeting
  • October 31
  • 6:00 PM
  • Dream Streets West | 520 39th Ave N
• Traffic Roundabout at Jefferson and 28th Ave N Community Meeting (Tentative)
  • November 9
  • 6:00 PM
  • Location TBD
• MLB Baseball Stadium Discussion
  • December 12 (Tentative)
  • 6:00 PM
  • Location TBD

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].

Update: Thank you all for your warm wishes and your congratulations upon the birth of our son. Your kind words and uplifting messages were a great surprise as. I have been out of office on paternal leave and I returned on September 20. I am in the process of following up from your emails and calls. If I haven't gotten back to you, I ask for your patience. I'm working through several correspondences and I'll get to you very soon.

Thank you District 21 for your support, votes, and most importantly, your trust in me to serve and lead our community for another four years! 

Let's Get Back to Work!

A New Term Begins Tonight!

Let's start off with some good news... At the close of last term, I was able to finally get the funding legislation passed for two projects in our District. I've worked on both of these projects for the past four years and they are now in process. Resurfacing, paving, and pedestrian safety upgrades have started on 31st Ave N near Centennial Park. I'm working on scheduling a meeting with neighbors to review the plans and get any of your questions answered. We've also started work on Dr. DB Todd Jr. Blvd and Clarksville Hwy. (from Jefferson St at DB Todd to Ed Temple at Clarksville Hwy). We will also be having a meeting with neighbors to discuss this project as well.

As the term begins, I'd like to remind you of the Capital Improvements Budget process that happens every October. By the end of the month, I will need to compile my capital improvements wish list that will be added to the  city's overall wish list. The way capital improvements work, such as the projects listed in the paragraph above, Council Members must add these items to a Capital Improvements Budget (often referred as the CIB). Once these items are vetted and a value is associated with each project, they can then be considered for the mayor's Capital Spending Plan (CSP). The CSP is when monies are budgeted to complete said CIB project. Not all items will make it to the CSP, for instance, the Clarksville Hwy and 31st Ave N projects have been on the CIB for my entire tenure in office, and just in February of 2022 they were added to the mayors CSP. I say all of this to say, if there are any Capital Improvements you see that are needed in your neighborhood, please email them to me and I'll review.

What I've Been Up To:

• In late June, Damita and I welcomed our son - That has been where the majority of my time has been spent this summer.
• I'm working with NDOT regarding several traffic calming requests that have come my way. 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'm working with Planning and NDOT on a North Nashville infrastructure and land use study. We are working to see where we can add value in the area for our traffic mobility, pedestrian mobility, overall infrastructure health and needs evaluation, and how this all ties into future development. The most important piece is how this will tie into the community that we have now and growing this community for all neighbors.
• I'm working to schedule a community meeting for the neighbors along the 31st Ave N corridor to learn more about the street upgrade project.
• I'm also working to schedule a community meeting for the neighbors along the Dr. DB Todd Jr. and Clarksville Hwy corridors to learn more about the street upgrade project.
• I received a call from NDOT yesterday regarding a long talked about project at Jefferson St. and 28th Ave N. Several years ago, right before I took office, Public Works/NDOT and TDOT held a meeting to discuss a round-a-bout at this intersection. I read the minutes and was not convinced that this was a priority project based on some of the statements from neighbors. Once I visit with NDOT regarding this proposed project, I will follow up with you to host a community meeting and share the details that I receive.

Upcoming Community Events

What's Happening tonight:  

RS2023-5 -A resolution extending the time within which the Tax Incentive and Abatement Study and Formulating Committee shall study and submit its complete report and recommendations. This is an affordable housing item that is studying the tax abatement options for building affordable housing.

RS2023-24 -A resolution accepting an in-kind grant from Vanderbilt University to the Metropolitan Government, acting by and through the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation, to replace the current video board at the Centennial Sportsplex.

RS2023 (LATE FILED) -A resolution honoring the life of Mr. Arnett H. Bodenhamer, Sr.

BL2023-4 -Title: An ordinance approving a participation agreement between the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, acting by and through the Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure ("NDOT"), and the Cheatham County Railroad Authority, for the rehabilitation and repair of the overhead railroad bridge crossing Albion Street, and an upgrade to Albion Street under the bridge

BL2023-41 -A resolution renewing the support and commitment of the Metropolitan Council toward principles constituting a Community Covenant with the aim of creating opportunities for all residents of Metropolitan Nashville to thrive.

Dates To Remember:

• Clarksville Hwy Paving Project Community Meeting
  • October 19
  • 6:00 pm
  • North Police Precinct (Tentative)

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

You're Invited

Free Movie Night in the Park!

THIS FRIDAY

Click Here to RSVP

Date: Friday, September 22

Time: 6:00 PM (Movie starts at Dusk)

Location: Elizabeth Park | 1701 Arthur Ave

Free Food: Fish Fry Style | Exciting Games for All Ages | Movie: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever | 

Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and your loved ones for an unforgettable evening of entertainment and community. It's a fantastic way to spend quality time with family and friends. Don't miss out on this memorable event!

I can't wait to see you there!

Click Here to RSVP

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].

Counting tonight, there are only 4 meetings left in this term!

Let's Continue the Work

Re-Elect Brandon Taylor

Early Voting has Closed!

If you have not had an opportunity to vote, you must vote on Thursday at your designated voting location to Cast your Vote for The City's Municipal Elections.

Click Here - To Find Your Voting Location

WE HAVE A SCOND COMMERCIAL... CLICK HERE TO WATCH!

I'm Running for Re-election to be your District 21 Councilman!

This is a short and sweet newsletter for today. Counting this meeting, we only have two meetings left in this Council Term! This means the agendas will continue to be shorter and we will likely not introduce any new legislative items until October! 

There are two items tonight that I believe are of interest to many of you, 1.) License Plate Readers Pilot 2.) Fairgrounds NASCAR. With both of these items being hot buttons, there is a strong sense that we should defer these items until there's a new Mayor and Council elected. That being said, that is exactly what we are going to do. Tonight, both items were deferred in their committees. 

Let's Connect

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].

Counting tonight, there are only 4 meetings left in this term!

Let's Continue the Work

Re-Elect Brandon Taylor

Early Voting Begins Next Friday, July 14 and ends on Saturday, July 29

Make a plan to vote Early to Re-Elect Brandon Taylor! Click here to see all the Early Voting locations.

I'm Running for Re-election to be your District 21 Councilman!

Support my Reelection - Donate Here 

I've learned quickly that sleep is overrated and nice clothes cannot be warn. Baby Taylor has made sure of that!

Alright! I am still home with mom and baby as we enter the last July meeting of the term. We'll be back in mid-season form in no-time! I'll just have a little assistant to help sign you all in at meetings now!

With only 3 meetings (counting tonight) to go, we are on are way to completing a historic Metro Council Term. We have seen so much this term and we made it through with your support. I'm excited to be heading into a new term (with your support at the polls). There's so much more work to do, and we can accomplish many of our goals together.

This is Important for District 21 - Clarksville Hwy is getting Paved! (DO NOT SKIP OVER)

In my haste last meeting, I failed to mention one extremely important item on the agenda. RS2023-2301 is a resolution that  approves an intergovernmental agreement between the Tennessee Department of Transportation (“TDOT”) and the Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure (“NDOT”) for the repair of existing pavement failures and resurfacing of 0.83 miles of Clarksville Pike/Dr. D.B. Todd Jr. Boulevard from Buchanan Street to Ed Temple Boulevard/Rosa L. Parks Boulevard.

Like many of you, I am tired of driving down Clarksville Hwy and needing an alignment once I turn off of that street. I've mentioned this to several of you, that we are working hard to get Clarksville Hwy paved. This has been on of the top priorities for me. We are now one step closer to having this become a reality. We now have a signed agreement from both parties (TDOT and NDOT) and we have a contractual cost for each party. The plan is to have this completed by the end of the fall. If this changes, I will let you know.

31st Ave N between Park Plaza and West End Updates

Another item that I've worked on this entire term is updates along 31st Ave N in the Centennial Park Area. I am happy to report, that this will also be coming to fruition. I am working with NDOT to schedule a meeting with neighbors for their input on the upgrades. Specifically safety measures for walkability and pedestrian crossings. We will also complete sidewalks on both the East and West sides of 31st Ave N from Park Plaza to West End. This is more exciting news. Please be on the lookout for meeting dates in the coming weeks.

What's Happening tonight:  

RS2023-2321 - A resolution accepting an in-kind grant from Vanderbilt University to the Metropolitan Government, acting by and through the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation, to replace the current video board at the Centennial Sportsplex.

RS2023-2319 - A resolution accepting an in-kind grant from Creative Parks Nashville to the Metropolitan Government, acting by and through the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation, to provide equipment for the support and expansion of the Music and Visual Arts programs at the Centennial Performing Arts Center and Metro Parks Community Centers.

BL2023-2005 - An ordinance to amend Chapter 3.52 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws to require that employees of the Metropolitan Government receive annual salary increases that reflect a cost-of-living adjustment consistent with the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers.

Let's Connect

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].

Counting tonight, there are only 4 meetings left in this term!

Let's Continue the Work

Re-Elect Brandon Taylor

Early Voting Begins Next Friday, July 14 and ends on Saturday, July 29

Make a plan to vote Early to Re-Elect Brandon Taylor! Click here to see all the Early Voting locations.

I'm Running for Re-election to be your District 21 Councilman!

Support my Reelection - Donate Here 

The last time I wrote my newsletter, we were just about to pass the budget. There were a few amendments that I supported that didn't make it in the final budget, a couple being the our attempt to save the Morris Building and adding 7% COLA increase to all Metro Employees. With this budget we were able to fully fund schools and budget all of the funding the School Board asked for as well as give a 6% COLA to all Metro Employees. 

Baby Taylor is Here!

Most importantly, the last time I wrote you, Damita and I were expecting our first child! Well, the expectation is no longer, and just a few days ago, we welcomed our baby boy into the world! So you know just exactly how tired I am and that I haven't gotten much sleep. But, it has been all worth it and I'm so thrilled to share this news with you!

In between the diaper changes, sleepless nights, and being at every beckoning call of mom and Baby Taylor, I have not had a lot of spare time on my hands. If you have tried to contact me, my apologies, I am working hard to find a sense of new normal, and I expect to be back in the office working with you in the next few weeks!

What's Happening tonight:  

One of the hot button items on tonight's agenda is the conversation regarding the Racetrack at the Fairgrounds. Bristol Motor Speedway would like to partner with Metro Nashville to renovate and upgrade the current racetrack that is located at the Nashville Fairgrounds. This would be a deal that would require the city to pay, via revenue bonds, (similar to the Titans deal) $100 Million. One of the items that worries me the most about this deal is that the City of Nashville and the Taxpayers will become the "backstop" for these revenue bonds, meaning - If the racetrack does not make the money it needs to pay the bonds, then the city of Nashville will be obligated to make these payments. Remember, the only way we as a city can take in a formidable amount of revenue is through property taxes.

I'm interested to see what this overall deal looks like, and maybe even more interested to discuss it in our next term!

Let's Connect

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].

I hope you and your family enjoyed all of the Juneteenth Celebrations! Below is a great history of Juneteenth from the National Museum of African American History & Culture.

The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth!

Let's Continue the Work 

I'm Running for Reelection to be your District 21 Councilman!

Support my Reelection - Donate Here 

Budget, Substitute, and Amendments

We will finalize the city budget this evening. This will be the final budget passed by this council, as the term ends in August.

The Budget Chair will introduce his substitute budget tonight, you can find it here on page 487 of the amendments packet. This is a normal process... Here's a quick reminder. The mayor has until the end of April to present the council with their budget. The council then has until the end of June to amend and pass a budget. If the council does not substitute or amend the mayor's budget, the mayor's budget will automatically go into law. The opportunity for the council to submit a substitute and amendments allows us to review the departments' wish lists and, most importantly, respond to the citizen's public hearing comments and outreach.

The chair's substitute has several changes in the budget, here are just a few areas:

• There's an increase from 4% to 6% in the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for all Metro employees.
  • There was an ask for 7% increase, and there are a few amendments that are asking for the total 7% increase that will be presented by council members.
• WeGo has an increase of nearly $400K 
  • There is also an allocation of nearly $3 Million for Better Bus program for capital
• Metro Libraries will see an increase to $630K for a total of $42 Million

There are also a total of 23 amendments. These amendments will be presented following the adoption of the substitute budget. The amendments are in several areas, from budgeting dollars to buy the Morris Building, to a COLA increase, to Arts increases, to removal of SROs in MNPS schools, and many more. You can find the entire amendments packet here. I've been able to get this out much earlier than normal due to all of the additional links and reading I'm asking of you.

District 21 Public Safety Meeting

Tomorrow night at 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm. I am hosting a public safety community meeting. This is in response to the ongoing gun violence in the DB Todd and Buchanan corridor. Please join us at the North Police Precinct to hear how these issues are being addressed.

What's Happening tonight:  

Tonight's big topic is the budget. I shared a brief update of things to expect in the top of my message. This will take the bulk of the time tonight as we have a substitute and 23 amendments to debate.

BL2023-1867 - A bill to be entitled: The Budget Ordinance of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee for Fiscal Year 2024

Dates To Remember:

• District 21 Public Safety Meeting
  • Wednesday, June 21
  • 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
  • North Police Precinct | 2231 26th 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