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Council codifies eviction right-to-counsel, expanding program funding
Summary
After a multi-year pilot and coalition advocacy, Metro Council passed an ordinance creating a permanent eviction right-to-counsel program to be run by the housing division, with a reported substitute investment totaling $4.5 million.
NASHVILLE — The Metro Council on Tuesday enacted an ordinance (BL2026-1382) establishing a permanent eviction right-to-counsel program to be administered by the Housing Division, formalizing a pilot that council members and community groups said has helped low-income renters in eviction court.
Support and scope: Sponsors and community partners framed the ordinance as the result of years of collaboration between council offices, legal-aid providers and community groups. Council Member Suara, one of the ordinance sponsors, said the program will move beyond pilot status to sustained local funding and operational oversight.
Funding and partners: Chair Tombs and other council supporters said the substitute added an additional $2.1 million, bringing the program to a total of $4.5 million as included in the FY2027 substitute. Council cited the mayor’s initial funding and additional council allocations; council also named partner organizations that contributed to the program design.
Council reaction: Members across the chamber praised the ordinance, calling it a practical tool that can prevent evictions and reduce downstream costs to families and public systems. The measure passed on third reading after floor remarks lauding the collaborative development of the program.
Next steps: The Housing Division was identified as the administering unit; council and housing staff will coordinate implementation details, reporting requirements and performance indicators as the program moves from pilot to permanent status.
