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NASHVILLE, TENN. (June 12, 2026) -- Metro Council Budget & Finance Committee Chair Kyonzté Toombs filed her Substitute Budget Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2027 on Friday, advancing a proposal that builds upon Mayor Freddie O'Connell's recommended budget while incorporating feedback received from Council Members, community stakeholders, and residents throughout the budget process.
“This substitute budget reflects the priorities we heard directly from residents across Nashville and Davidson County. It makes meaningful investments in housing stability, community safety, and services for our most vulnerable neighbors while remaining responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. At its core, this budget is about improving quality of life and creating opportunities for every Nashvillian to thrive,” said Chair Toombs.
The substitute budget reflects weeks of departmental review, collaboration among Council Members, and public engagement, including comments received during the Council's pre-budget public comment period in February and the nearly four-hour-long June 2nd public hearing.
Throughout this budget process, Chair Toombs and Council Members worked diligently to review departmental requests, evaluate community needs, and identify investments that will have the greatest impact. “This substitute budget reflects that work and demonstrates our commitment to addressing the issues residents and community leaders told us matter most,” said Toombs.
Key priorities of the substitute budget include significant investments in housing stability and homelessness services, expanded support for community-based public safety initiatives, and strengthened partnerships with nonprofit organizations serving residents in need.
Key investments include:
- An additional $2.1 million for the Eviction Right to Counsel Program, allowing the initiative to expand services and help more residents avoid displacement.
- An additional $1.25 million to the Office of Homeless Services to support continued operation of the Rodeway Inn through the Hospitality Hub of Memphis.
- An additional $1 million for the Barnes Housing Trust Fund, increasing total funding to $23 million.
- $401,500 to the Nashville Fire Department for a second fully funded shift of the REACH program.
- $250,000 to support workforce development initiatives through the Urban League of Middle Tennessee.
- $60,000 to support the Pet Community Center’s spay and neuter services.
- $100,000 to The Branch to support food access and English language classes.
- $101,800 to General Sessions Court to support a new social worker position.
The public made its priorities clear. Residents spoke passionately about housing affordability, homelessness, neighborhood safety, and economic opportunity, Toombs said. This substitute budget responds with targeted investments that strengthen communities and support residents at every stage of life, said Toombs.
Chair Toombs thanked Mayor Freddie O’Connell, Finance Director Jenneen Reed, Budget Officer Aaron Pratt and their teams, Vice Chair Jason Spain, and Council Office staff for their collaboration throughout the budget process.
The Metropolitan Council is scheduled to consider the FY2027 Substitute Budget during its June 16, 2026 meeting.
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