Community members gathered in the fellowship hall of Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church, 2708 Jefferson Street, for a Community Town Hall series hosted by state Rep. Brenda Gilmore in late July.

Gilmore is also a candidate for the State Senate, District 19, so the evening’s agenda was quite full.

Guests received information regarding several issues regarding the city of Nashville and its unprecedented growth.

Ed Kindall was the first speaker, voicing concerns about gentrification, affordable housing and the buying and selling of homes. Many homes have gone up in value by 77% in the Jefferson Street District, with the highest in Councilman Scott Davis’ District at 93%.

“We can’t do everything, but we do what we can,” said Kindall.

The challenge of transpiration and the current traffic situation in the city was addressed by Marybeth Ikard from the Mayor’s office.

Other speakers with agenda topics included: Dr. Sekou Franklin with the Police Oversight Review Board; Dr. Gary Burke with a historical overview of Fort Negley; and Marilyn Brown of the Tennessee Black Democrats.

The last issue addressed was the proposed sale of the YMCA located on Ashland City Highway. Many people were very upset with the proposal set up by the Mayor’s Office.

However, Gilmore informed the group that she spoke with Mayor Berry and let her know the idea was simply not presented properly. As a member of the board for the YMCA, she had privy to information that aided in making that decision.

Additional Community Town hall meetings are scheduled throughout the year.

The next one will be held at the East Precinct, 936 E. Trinity Lane, on August 24 at 6 pm.