From the Sylvan Park Journal: Meet Our New Councilperson
No stranger to our neighborhood herself, but new to many Sylvan Parkers, newly elected Councilwoman Brenda Gadd shares what she loves about our one-of-a-kind community and how she plans to support us over the next four years. Responses have been edited for clarity and length.
What motivated you to run for Metro Council?
Nashville has been my home for over 20 years, with the last 10 years in District 24. Growing up, I was taught that community and family are one and the same, and this lesson has never left me. We are all better when our community is at its best. And community is at its best when neighborhoods are supported and thriving. I ran for Metro Council because I wanted to take the next four years of my life to center neighbors and be of service. I’m dedicated to addressing local issues and improving the quality of life for residents in District 24.
What do you see as Sylvan Park’s greatest challenges and opportunities?
Sylvan Park has everything — a feeling of a small town with quick access to all the big city things Nashville has. People want to be in this neighborhood, and the challenge and opportunity is how to balance growth and ensure inclusivity while maintaining the charm, character, and access that brought so many people here and are the reasons why so many stay. My work will be in advocating for Sylvan Park using neighborhood-based and neighborhood-informed feedback and how that relates to Metro funding and priorities.
What are your favorite things about Sylvan Park?
The people, the farmer’s market, the library, the greenway, the feeling of safety, and the walkability. Produce stores, dining options, coffee shops, greenways, and nearby cultural offerings like the Nashville Opera and Nashville Ballet — Sylvan Park, and District 24 as a whole, provides a well-rounded living experience with a sense of community. Like I said, everything!
Tell us a little about your day job.
I serve as the policy and advocacy director of AWAKE (Advocates for Women and Kids Equality), focusing on advancing gender equity in policy decisions at the state government level. I’m also the president of Rethink Public Strategies, a firm I founded to assist mission-based organizations with government relations, coalition management, policy development, and advocacy efforts.
How can people get in touch with you?
I can be reached at Brenda.Gadd@Nashville.gov or at 615-432-1324. I’m working on my newsletter distribution, and you can sign up to receive it at BrendaForNashville.com
Article by Kate Parrish