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Nashville council approves reorganization of historic-zoning staff under Planning Department after contentious public hearing
Summary
The Metropolitan Council voted 24-11-1 to pass ordinance BL 20 25-742, moving historic-zoning staff into the Planning Department while preserving the Metro Historic Commission’s authority. Supporters said the change integrates preservation into planning; opponents argued the process was rushed and would weaken neighborhood protections.
The Metropolitan Council of Nashville and Davidson County voted 24-11-1 on third reading to adopt ordinance BL 20 25-742, reorganizing historic-zoning staff to report through the Planning Department while preserving the Metropolitan Historic Commission’s independent decision-making authority.
Supporters said the change will align preservation work with city planning and provide staff resources the historic program currently lacks. "Here's what the bill does. It codifies the historic zoning staff and protects the current staff's civil service status," said David Bridal, executive director of the Preservation Society of Nashville. "It integrates preservation into city planning," Bridal said, adding the intent is to create a single, coordinated approach to growth and conservation.
Opponents, including dozens of residents who packed the council chamber for a lengthy public hearing, said the…
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