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NASHVILLE, Tennessee (WTVF) – As Nashville’s entertainment industry continues to grow, Metro Commission members will discuss how best to capitalize on the situation.
This is a debate that has been going on for months. The latest chapter is likely to unfold at Tuesday’s Metro Commission meeting. Two separate pieces of legislation dealing with the issue are expected to be brought to council members.
The first bill was sponsored by Council Member Robert Swope. It will create the Nashville Film and Television Advisory Board. The committee will consist of nine industry professionals who will deal exclusively with state incentives and benefits for the film and television industry. The Board will also work closely with the Tennessee Recreation Commission to establish and maintain tax incentives and recruit, promote and develop recreational programs in Davidson County.
Board members will also work to advance gender and racial equity across the film and television industry, create opportunities in all Nashville communities, and raise awareness of potential careers in the film and television industry at Nashville Metropolitan High Schools.
“We need a more targeted approach,” council member Robert Swope said in a statement. “Otherwise, it will fail again, just like the last 7 studios have done for the past 30 years.”
The second bill was sponsored by council member Joy Styles. It will establish the Nashville Entertainment Creations Council. It will help promote all aspects of the entertainment industry — including film, television, music videos and virtual reality. The committee will consist of 19 members with industry experience. The group will also work to develop and promote recreational opportunities in Nashville while promoting diversity and inclusion and supporting the artists who implement these programs. The committee will also support the Office of Music, Films and Entertainment that Nashville Mayor John Cooper announced in April.
Similar offices already exist in Chattanooga, Memphis and Knoxville, committee member Styles said.
“What we need is an institution that can support everyone,” Stiles said. “Because of what we’ve done in the past, it’s not one-sided to support people. We focus on the music and everyone else gets left out.”
While council members may disagree with this approach, they agree that promoting recreational opportunities in Nashville could bring more jobs and money to the city.
Both bills are expected to receive the second of the three votes needed for approval. The meeting starts Tuesday at 6:30 pm.
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