Neighbors:

This is a follow-up to our initial communication regarding the proposed restructuring of the Metropolitan Historic Zoning Commission (MHZC). We want to ensure our neighbors remain informed and engaged in this critical decision that will shape the future of Nashville’s historic neighborhoods.

Concerns About Civil Service Employees and Public Notification

One major concern is the lack of clarity on how this transition will affect civil service employees within MHZC. There has been no public explanation of whether staff will retain their roles, be reassigned, or face structural employment changes. These professionals oversee historic zoning policies, and any disruption to their work could impact how preservation decisions are carried out citywide.

Additionally, residents of historic overlay districts, those most affected by this change, have not been given actual notice. When government decisions affect people’s homes and neighborhoods, they deserve clear communication. Residents should not be left in the dark on changes that potentially impact, in some cases, their largest financial asset.

The Need for Transparency in Local Government

The MHZC has operated independently for nearly 50 years, ensuring that Nashville’s historic neighborhoods and structures are protected through a public review process. Moving MHZC under the Planning Department has been positioned as an administrative change, but with no clear documentation, it’s impossible to assess its full impact.

A key missing piece is the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Planning Department and MHZC. No public draft has been provided, raising concerns that this shift is happening without a guarantee of public input in decision-making.

What’s Driving This Change?

This proposal is partially in response to state legislative pressure. Tennessee House Bill 1279 (HB1279), currently under review, seeks to limit the authority of local historic zoning commissions within designated Tourism Development Zones (TDZs), such as Lower Broadway.

If enacted, HB1279 would exempt privately owned properties built after 1899 in these zones from requiring commission approval for certain modifications, including updates to lighting, electronics, signage, or seasonal weatherization additions (e.g., heaters and tents).

Rather than restructuring the entire MHZC, it may be in the city’s best interest to allow this state action to proceed while ensuring MHZC retains control over the rest of Davidson County’s historic districts.

Much of this debate is rooted in ongoing conflicts between Lower Broadway business owners and MHZC over signage, building modifications, and preservation rules. However, should the governance of all historic districts be overhauled because of a dispute affecting just one designated TDZ?

Public Comment: How You Can Get Involved

The final reading of this resolution is on March 18, 2025, before the Metro Council. This is the last opportunity for public input before a decision is made.

When speaking, be clear and concise:

→ If you have concerns about the resolution, consider asking for clarity on how this transition will affect historic preservation efforts, public input in zoning decisions, and the roles of civil service employees. You may also want to highlight the need for strong community oversight in preservation policies.

→ If you believe more time is needed for review, you can request a deferral to allow for public input on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and additional transparency around how this change will be implemented.

What Happens if the Council Votes No?

If the Council votes ‘no’, MHZC remains independent, ensuring community-driven preservation decisions separate from the Planning Department’s development focus. A ‘no’ vote would require any future changes to go through a more transparent process with public input.

Since this is the third reading, it cannot be amended unless the Council suspends the rules, a process that requires no more than two Council Members objecting to block the suspension. This makes a thorough review before voting even more critical.

A Call for a More Transparent and Accountable Process

Neighbor 2 Neighbor champions transparency and accountability in governance, ensuring that neighborhood voices are not an afterthought in major policy decisions.

We urge Metro Council to center community voices, ensuring residents from Haynes Heights, Salemtown, Edgefield, Inglewood Place, Buena Vista, Lockland Springs, Sylvan Park, Edgehill, and other historic districts have a powerful platform to engage, demand clarity, and advocate for the future of their neighborhoods. This is not just about today; it’s about ensuring Nashville’s historic neighborhoods are preserved for future generations.

Find your Metro Council representative and share your thoughts: Metropolitan Nashville Council Members.

In community,

Neighbor 2 Neighbor