On the Issues

Homelessness

Solving homelessness in Nashville will require a multi-faceted approach that involves addressing the root causes of homelessness, providing supportive services, and creating affordable housing options. There are not a one size fits all solution. And the government cannot work alone in solving homelessness. We must work with the private sector, developers, nonprofits, and faith and community leaders. Here are some steps I will take:

  • Address the root causes of homelessness

    Many people become homeless due to factors such as poverty, mental health issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, and job loss. Addressing these underlying issues can help prevent homelessness. Programs that provide job training, mental health services, and addiction treatment can be helpful.

  • Increase the availability of affordable housing

    The lack of affordable housing is a significant contributor to homelessness. Increasing the availability of affordable housing through initiatives like low-income housing tax credits, inclusionary zoning, and other incentives for developers can help create more affordable housing options for people experiencing homelessness.

  • Provide supportive services

    Many people experiencing homelessness need access to supportive services, such as medical care, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment. Providing these services can help individuals get back on their feet and reduce the likelihood of future homelessness.

  • Coordinate resources

    Collaboration between local government, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations can help ensure that resources are being used efficiently and effectively. Coordinated entry systems can help streamline the process of connecting people experiencing homelessness with the services they need.

  • Increase public awareness

    Raising awareness about homelessness and its causes can help reduce the stigma associated with it and promote empathy and understanding. Educating the public about homelessness and advocating for policies and programs that address its root causes can help create a more supportive community for people experiencing homelessness.

Solving homelessness is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. By addressing the root causes of homelessness, increasing the availability of affordable housing, providing supportive services, coordinating resources, and increasing public awareness, Nashville can take steps to reduce and eventually eliminate homelessness.

Transit

The future of mass transit in Nashville will involve working with our neighboring counties and other cities in Middle Tennessee and the federal government. We must have all stakeholders at the table to accomplish a regional approach to transit and I plan to do this as Nashville’s next Mayor. When addressing the future of mass transit, Nashville must also work toward its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050. To achieve this goal, mass transit must involve using the latest technologies, such as electric buses, and have a focus on sustainability.

Working with State Government

I believe that our Metro Council should not have kept the Republican National Committee from coming to Nashville. The First Amendment, and Freedom of Assembly, does not get to choose sides, especially partisan sides. It is unfortunate that our city is being punished for the Metro Council’s decision. However, we all must move forward to find common ground where we can agree. I would meet frequently with members of the Metro Council and our state government leaders to keep the communication lines open. As Mayor, I will make the effort to work with all our leaders in government, businesses, and faith organizations. It is critical that my administration focus on the common goal of servant leadership, for all people, and avoid the partisan fighting where possible.

Public Safety

As Mayor I would work with Chief John Drake to ensure that the police department has the resources that it needs to keep our city safe. I would also work with Juvenile Judge Sheila Calloway and District Attorney Glenn Funk to continue investing in restorative justice programs in our city. We also must empower and support the nonprofit organizations in Nashville, like Group Violence Intervention that target the population at high risk for violence. that are working to prevent violence in our city. I would also conduct outreach and personal interaction wrap around groups with students in the Metro Public Schools to empower students about available resources they can use when they need help and how to deal with conflict. I will engage with existing neighborhood watch groups and encourage the forming of neighborhood watch groups working with Neighbor 2 Neighbor to promote knowing your neighbors and empowering groups with the resources needed for building stronger community awareness.

Affordable Housing

Addressing the lack of affordable housing in Nashville will require a multi- faceted approach that involves increasing the supply of affordable housing, preserving existing affordable housing, and providing resources and support to low-income residents. I cannot say it enough. The government cannot do this alone. Here are some strategies that can be used to address the lack of affordable housing options in Nashville:

  • Address the root causes of homelessness

    Many people become homeless due to factors such as poverty, mental health issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, and job loss. Addressing these underlying issues can help prevent homelessness. Programs that provide job training, mental health services, and addiction treatment can be helpful.

  • Increase funding for affordable housing

    We will allocate more funding for affordable housing development and preservation through sources such as bonds, tax credits, and grants. This can provide developers with the financial resources they need to build or preserve affordable housing units.

  • Address homelessness

    Addressing homelessness can help free up resources for affordable housing and prevent people from slipping into homelessness due to lack of affordable housing. The city can provide resources such as rental assistance, job training, and mental health services to help people experiencing homelessness get back on their feet and access affordable housing.

  • Promote mixed-income neighborhoods

    Mixed-income neighborhoods can create a more diverse and inclusive community while also providing more affordable housing options. The city can encourage the development of mixed-income housing projects through zoning and tax incentives.

  • Collaborate with the private sector, nonprofit community, and faith organizations

    The government alone cannot address the issues of affordable housing. We must work together with developers and business leaders and our nonprofit organizations and faith leaders to collectively address the affordable housing issues facing our city.