Neighborhood Issues

By Luvenia Harrison Butler

Renewed focus on neighborhoods, with an emphasis on safety and infrastructure improvements.

We need additional safety officers on the streets as well as community policing. As a graduate of the Citizen's Police Academy, I already have demonstrated my willingness to work with the Department on supporting their efforts as professionals, as well as encouraging the types of programs (such as Be On the Lookout and the Academy) that enable citizens to be more aware of how they can also be effective in deterring crime.

Attention to growth and zoning are also key issues. Nashville residents want quality neighborhood life (adequate streets and sidewalks, maintaining neighborhood character, traffic and congestion solutions). There also needs to be sensible long-term planning for managed growth that will enhance our local economy. The two need not conflict with each other, but it will take a leader that can work with all parties toward mutually acceptable solutions to make sure one is not sacrificed for the other. As a parent of a young daughter, a business owner, and a former employee of the Department of Environment and Conservation, I have the diverse background, interest and experience to be that leader.