Community Review Board votes to ask mayor for update on 61‑page whistleblower complaint

The Metropolitan Nashville Community Review Board voted to authorize its executive director to draft a letter to Mayor John Cooper requesting a routine status update on a 61‑page whistleblower complaint and the outside investigation into it. The board approved the motion after members described delays in the outside law firm’s investigation, a denied public‑records request and more than $324,600 billed to the city for work on the matter. The 61‑page complaint was first referred for outside investigation in mid‑2024. Executive Director Fincher told the board she has seen billing entries as recent as March 2025 but said, “I continue to put this 61‑page complaint on the agenda because we haven't had any updates.” Attorney Brazil told the board that a public‑records request seeking the search warrant executed at a law firm’s office was denied because the related investigation is still pending. Board member Searcy moved that the executive director be authorized to construct a letter to the mayor containing the board’s points, with Attorney Brazil helping to draft it; another board member seconded the motion. Members voted in favor; the chair announced the motion passed and noted there was at least one recorded opposition on a later motion about a different matter. Board members said the board’s interest is limited to the contents and status of the outside investigation and to accountability for city funds spent on the contract. Members asked the executive director to request expected completion date, a summary of work performed to date, and clarification of whether the outside investigator remains active on the contract. The board also discussed a related criminal investigation and the connection between that criminal matter and the outside administrative review; Attorney Brazil and board members said they want the inquiries treated as separate tracks for purposes of public reporting and the board’s oversight.