District 1: Sean Dailey - Nashville Banner

Candidate: Sean Dailey

Metro Council District 1

Occupation: “My current role, which I have been in for almost 4 years, involves analyzing labor market dynamics within the construction sector. My responsibilities emphasize work force development initiatives in skilled trades including paid apprenticeships and temp-to-permanent work opportunities. This encompasses several key areas aimed at addressing the needs and challenges within the construction industry while prioritizing the growth and empowerment of the workforce.”

Previous candidacy/offices held:

“NONE. I am a political outsider. I have not held any elected or appointed governmental offices. However, I have had the privilege of serving as a member of the Tennessee Army National Guard. My service in the National Guard has allowed me to develop valuable skills, demonstrate leadership, and serve my country and community with dedication and honor. While I may not have held a specific governmental office, my time in the Tennessee Army National Guard has instilled in me a deep sense of duty, service, and a commitment to the well-being of our citizens. I firmly believe that my military background has provided me with a unique perspective and a strong foundation of leadership that will enable me to effectively represent the interests and concerns of the constituents I seek to serve.”

Community experience:

“When it comes to community experience, I am proud to have been actively involved in various initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of individuals in our community.

I participated in coordinating the 2020 Nashville tornado cleanup efforts, rallying volunteers and resources to help our neighbors recover from the devastating aftermath. This experience allowed me to witness firsthand the strength and resilience of our community as we came together to rebuild and support those affected by the natural disaster.

In addition, I have organized numerous food and clothing drives for the Nashville Rescue Mission. These drives provided essential resources to individuals experiencing homelessness and helped ensure that their basic needs were met. It was a humbling experience to witness the impact of these initiatives and see the power of the community coming together to support those in need.

Furthermore, I have been involved in entrepreneurship programs aimed at empowering community members who have a criminal history. These programs provide education, mentorship, and resources to individuals seeking to rebuild their lives and pursue entrepreneurial ventures. By equipping them with the necessary skills and support, we foster economic opportunities and promote positive community reintegration.”

What will be your top three priorities on the Council?

“1. Investing in Our Educators, Firefighters, and Police Officers: One of my top priorities will be advocating for fair compensation and raises for our hardworking teachers, firefighters, and police officers. These dedicated professionals play vital roles in keeping our community safe, providing essential services, and shaping the future of our children. It is crucial that we recognize their invaluable contributions by ensuring they receive competitive wages, benefits, and support for professional development.

2. Upgrading Road Infrastructure, Sidewalks, and Bike Lanes: Improving our road infrastructure is essential for enhancing transportation efficiency and ensuring the safety of all community members, including pedestrians and cyclists. I will work to secure funding and resources to upgrade our roads, construct and maintain sidewalks, and expand bike lanes. By investing in these improvements, we can enhance connectivity, promote active transportation options, and create a more sustainable and accessible community for everyone.

3. Promoting Affordable Housing for Working Families: Affordable housing is a pressing issue that affects many working families in our community. I will prioritize the development and preservation of affordable housing options to ensure that hardworking individuals and families have access to safe, stable, and affordable homes. By working with housing organizations, developers, and local stakeholders, we can implement innovative strategies such as mixed-income housing, public-private partnerships, and incentives to address this critical need.

These three priorities reflect my commitment to supporting our public servants, improving our infrastructure, and addressing the housing challenges faced by working families. I believe that by focusing on these areas, we can create a thriving community that provides opportunities for all its residents to succeed and prosper.

I am dedicated to working collaboratively with fellow Council members, community organizations, and constituents to champion these priorities and ensure that our decisions are guided by the best interests of our community. Together, we can build a brighter future that prioritizes the well-being, safety, and affordability of our community members.”

What is the biggest issue facing your district? How would you approach it?

“The biggest issue facing our district, in my view, is the lack of effective leadership and representation. Far too often, our community’s needs and concerns are overlooked, and important decisions are made without taking into account the voices of the people who will be directly affected. This disconnect between the leadership and the community has hindered our progress and stifled the potential for positive change.

To address this issue, I bring to the table my extensive leadership experience and a dynamic vision for our community. I believe in the power of inclusive and participatory governance, where the voices of all community members are heard and valued. Here’s how I would approach this challenge:

1. Engage the Community: I will actively seek input from community members through town hall meetings, listening sessions, and online platforms. By engaging in meaningful conversations and actively listening to the concerns and aspirations of our constituents, I can ensure that our decisions are truly representative of the community’s needs.

2. Foster Collaboration: I believe in building bridges and fostering collaboration among community stakeholders, including residents, local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other elected officials. By creating a culture of collaboration and open communication, we can pool our resources and expertise to tackle our district’s challenges together.

3. Transparent and Accountable Leadership: I will prioritize transparency in decision-making processes, ensuring that the community is well-informed about the issues at hand and the rationale behind the decisions we make. Additionally, I will hold myself accountable to the community by regularly reporting back on progress, listening to feedback, and making adjustments as needed.

4. Amplify Underrepresented Voices: It is vital to ensure that the voices of marginalized and underrepresented communities within our district are heard and amplified. I will actively seek out perspectives from diverse backgrounds and work to address the unique challenges faced by these communities, ensuring that their concerns are not overlooked.

5. Bold and Forward-Thinking Policies: I am committed to bringing fresh ideas and a forward-thinking approach to the table. I will work tirelessly to develop and advocate for policies that promote sustainable economic growth, equitable access to resources, environmental stewardship, and social justice.

By addressing the lack of effective leadership and representation head-on, we can create a district where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered. With my leadership experience and dynamic vision for our community, I am confident in my ability to bridge the gap between the leadership and the community, and to drive positive change that truly reflects the aspirations and needs of our district.”

Much of the city’s developmental focus, like plans for a new East Bank, have focused on downtown. What’s your vision for downtown?

“When it comes to downtown development, my vision is centered on maintaining the original culture and identity of Nashville while ensuring that our downtown area caters to the needs and desires of the people who call this city home, rather than solely focusing on attracting tourists. I believe that a thriving downtown should be a vibrant and inclusive community that offers a wide range of amenities for residents to enjoy.

First and foremost, preserving Nashville’s unique culture is of utmost importance. Our downtown should serve as a reflection of the rich history, art, music, and diverse communities that make Nashville so special. As we develop and grow, it is crucial that we honor our roots and find ways to integrate and celebrate our heritage within the fabric of downtown.

Additionally, we need to prioritize the needs and interests of the residents who live downtown. This means creating spaces and amenities that cater to their daily lives and enhance their quality of life. From parks and green spaces to community centers, libraries, and recreational facilities, we must invest in the infrastructure and resources that promote a healthy and thriving community.

I am committed to ensuring that downtown Nashville is not only an attraction for visitors but also a place that offers a high standard of living for its residents. This includes access to affordable housing options, quality schools, healthcare services, and a diverse range of job opportunities.

Moreover, we must foster an environment that encourages local businesses and entrepreneurship, supporting the growth of small and independent enterprises. By creating favorable conditions for local business owners, we can ensure that our downtown remains authentic and maintains its unique character.

Lastly, sustainable development should be at the forefront of our vision for downtown. As we continue to grow, it is crucial to prioritize environmentally friendly practices, such as green building initiatives, renewable energy adoption, and effective waste management. By embracing sustainability, we can preserve our natural resources, reduce our ecological footprint, and create a more resilient and livable downtown for generations to come.”

Did you or would you have voted to approve the new Titans stadium financing legislation?

“While I didn’t vote on the legislation since I’m a only a candidate this year, I am able to offer my perspective on the matter. I place a great deal of value on fiscal responsibility and the prudent use of public funds. When considering any financing legislation, including the one pertaining to the new Titans stadium, it’s essential to carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks for our community. At first, like many Nashvillians, I was deeply skeptical of the plans for a new Titans stadium and the renovation of the East Bank. It was hard for me to justify the enormous expense when more important priorities such as affordable housing and infrastructure projects are still unresolved. However, after examining the issue thoroughly, I now understand why the council voted to move ahead with the plan.

In short, the benefits far outweigh the costs. I was previously unaware of the ballooning cost of maintaining our obligations for maintenance and repair of the current 30-year-old stadium. Nashville taxpayers were on the hook for tens of millions of dollars for these renovations year over year with no end in sight. The older the stadium got, the more money that was required to maintain NFL regulations for upkeep. The truth is that it’s actually cheaper to replace the stadium than to keep the older, outdated one. Nearly all the expense of building the new stadium is covered by funds allocated by the State, the Titans, hotel taxes, and ticket sales – not Nashville tax payers. However, If I were able to vote on the legislation at the time, I would have heavily scrutinized how the funds were allocated and ensured that the allocation adhered to the highest ethical standards.”

Does Metro need more police officers beyond the unfilled positions?

“The safety and well-being of our community is of utmost importance, and ensuring that we have adequate resources to maintain effective law enforcement is a priority. When it comes to the question of whether Metro needs more police officers beyond the unfilled positions, my stance is twofold.

Firstly, I believe that increasing the number of police officers is necessary to enhance public safety and address the growing needs of our community. As our population expands and new challenges arise, we must have a police force that is adequately staffed to handle these demands. By filling the existing vacant positions, we can strengthen our law enforcement capabilities and improve response times to ensure the safety of our residents.

However, it is not just about increasing the numbers. Retaining qualified and experienced police officers is equally important. We must provide sufficient funding to ensure competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for professional development. By investing in our officers and creating a positive work environment, we can reduce turnover and retain our skilled law enforcement personnel who are familiar with the unique challenges of our community.

Furthermore, it is crucial to allocate adequate funding to maintain and add to the fleet of police vehicles. Having well-equipped and reliable vehicles is essential for effective patrolling, emergency response, and overall operational efficiency. By providing the necessary resources to update and expand our fleet, we can ensure that our officers have the tools they need to serve and protect our community effectively.”

What do you think of the current framework passed by the council around LPR (license plate readers) usage? Do you think Metro should allow facial recognition technology to be used downtown?

“I believe in equipping our law enforcement professionals with the best possible tools and technologies to effectively combat crime and ensure the safety of our community. License Plate Readers can be valuable tools in investigating and solving crimes, as they provide valuable information that can aid law enforcement efforts. However, it is essential to have appropriate safeguards in place to protect the privacy rights of our residents.

Regarding the use of facial recognition technology downtown, it is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. While this technology has the potential to assist law enforcement in identifying suspects and preventing crimes, we must also address concerns related to privacy, accuracy, and potential misuse.

To strike the right balance, we need to implement strict regulations and protocols that ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of civil liberties. Robust oversight and regular audits are essential to prevent abuse or unauthorized access to personal data. Additionally, guidelines should be in place to clearly define when and how facial recognition technology can be used, ensuring that its application is limited to specific circumstances and subject to proper legal authorization.

As a candidate for metro council, my stance is to support the use of technology in law enforcement while advocating for robust safeguards for privacy, ethics, and the protection of individual rights. We should work collaboratively with law enforcement agencies, privacy advocates, and community stakeholders to develop clear policies and guidelines that govern the use of such technologies.

It is essential that we maintain a continuous dialogue with residents to ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed. Transparency and open communication play a crucial role in building trust between law enforcement and the community.”

Do you think a property tax rate adjustment will be needed in the next 4 years? Why or why not?

“I believe that it is necessary to reassess and potentially adjust property tax rates, particularly for non-commercial residential properties. Our goal should be to alleviate the burden on homeowners and ensure that property taxes are fair and equitable.

In evaluating the need for a property tax rate adjustment, we must consider several factors. First and foremost, we need to assess the overall financial health of our local government and the specific funding requirements for essential services and infrastructure projects. We should aim to strike a balance between generating sufficient revenue to support these needs and preventing an undue burden on homeowners.

Additionally, it is crucial to consider the economic landscape and the impact of property taxes on individuals and families. Nashville has experienced significant growth and rising property values in recent years. While this has brought benefits, such as increased revenue for the city, it has also led to higher property tax assessments for homeowners. It is essential to ensure that property tax rates remain reasonable and affordable for residents.”

Do you view your role in the Council as leading your district on issues or simply reflecting the views of the district’s residents?

“As a candidate, I view my role in the Council as one of leadership, while also being committed to representing the views and interests of the district’s residents. Leadership is the central tenet of my campaign, and I firmly believe that effective leadership requires a balance between guiding and listening to the community.

Leadership means taking the initiative to identify and address the pressing issues and concerns facing our district. It involves being proactive, seeking innovative solutions, and advocating for policies that promote the well-being and progress of our community.

At the same time, I recognize the importance of being a representative of the people. It is crucial to engage in open and honest dialogue with residents, actively listening to their perspectives, and incorporating their feedback into the decision-making process. Their voices matter, and I am committed to ensuring that their concerns are heard and their needs are addressed.

Ultimately, leadership and representation go hand in hand. True leadership involves understanding the aspirations and challenges of our district, and then taking decisive action to bring about positive change. It also means fostering a sense of unity and collaboration within the community, so that together we can achieve our shared goals.

Throughout my campaign, I have emphasized the importance of strong and effective leadership. I am dedicated to serving as a proactive leader who works hard to lead our district towards a brighter future. I will listen to the residents, understand their needs, and use my experience and expertise to guide us in the right direction.”

How do you view the relationship of the city and Council to the General Assembly in the face of adverse legislation from the state?

“In the face of adverse legislation from the state, it is important for the city and the Council to stand united and work diligently to protect the rights and priorities of Nashville. I view the relationship between the city and the General Assembly as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration with other localities in the State in order to open dialogue for effective advocacy for shared interests.

When faced with adverse legislation, it is essential for the city and the Council to engage in proactive communication with state representatives and senators. By building relationships, sharing our perspectives, and highlighting the potential impact of proposed legislation on Nashville and how it affects the State as a whole, we can work towards finding common ground and promoting the best interests of our city.

Furthermore, it is crucial to leverage the power of grassroots advocacy and community engagement. By rallying residents, community organizations, and stakeholders, we can amplify our voice and collectively advocate for policies that support the values and needs of Nashville.

I am committed to being a strong advocate for our city in the face of adverse legislation. I will never cease to ensure that our concerns are heard, our interests are protected, and our priorities are effectively communicated to the state legislature. This includes working closely with fellow council members, community leaders, and local organizations to develop strategies and initiatives that promote the best interests of our community.”

The city is experiencing an affordability crisis. What is the council’s role in creating more housing for buyers and renters in Nashville?

“The affordability crisis in our city is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and proactive measures from the council. As a candidate, I firmly believe that the council plays a crucial role in creating more housing options for buyers and renters in Nashville.

First and foremost, the council must prioritize the development of affordable housing initiatives. This includes collaborating with developers, community organizations, and stakeholders to incentivize the construction of affordable housing units. We can explore options such as tax incentives, streamlined approval processes, and public-private partnerships to encourage the creation of affordable housing developments that cater to a diverse range of income levels.

Additionally, it is essential for the council to actively advocate for funding and resources at the state and federal levels to support affordable housing initiatives. This involves engaging with legislators, lobbying for increased funding, and leveraging available grants and programs to expand affordable housing opportunities within our city.

Collaboration with housing advocacy groups, nonprofits, and community stakeholders is also crucial. The council should actively engage these organizations to gain insights, gather data, and develop comprehensive strategies that address the affordability crisis. By leveraging their expertise and working together, we can create innovative solutions to tackle this complex issue.

Moreover, the council can support workforce housing programs and initiatives that prioritize affordable housing options for essential workers such as teachers, nurses, and first responders. By recognizing the importance of these key individuals in our community and providing affordable housing options, we can enhance workforce retention and contribute to a more balanced and inclusive housing market.”

What improvements do you think WeGo should make during the next four years? Would you back creation of a dedicated funding source?

“WeGo should focus on enhancing the frequency and reliability of its services. This includes investing in infrastructure upgrades, such as dedicated bus lanes and signal priority systems, to improve the efficiency and timeliness of bus routes. By reducing travel times and increasing the reliability of the system, we can encourage more people to choose public transportation as their preferred mode of travel.

WeGo should also explore options to expand its coverage area, particularly in underserved neighborhoods and areas with limited access to public transportation. This could involve increasing the number of bus routes, extending operating hours, and strategically placing transit hubs to better connect different parts of the city. By expanding access to reliable and affordable public transportation, we can alleviate traffic congestion, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance mobility for all residents.

In terms of funding, I’m open to considering the creation of a dedicated funding source for WeGo. A dedicated funding source can provide the stability and resources necessary to support the long-term growth and improvement of our public transit system. However, any decision regarding funding must be made with careful consideration of its impact on residents and businesses, as well as the overall financial health of our city.

I believe in exploring a variety of funding options, including partnerships with private entities, seeking federal grants, and engaging in public-private collaborations. By diversifying the funding sources for WeGo, we can ensure a sustainable and well-funded transit system that meets the evolving needs of our community.

Additionally, WeGo should prioritize the integration of technology and innovation into its operations. This includes implementing real-time tracking systems, mobile ticketing options, and digital platforms for trip planning and information dissemination. By embracing technology, we can enhance the overall user experience and make public transportation more accessible and convenient for all residents.

WeGo should focus on enhancing the frequency and reliability of its services. This includes investing in infrastructure upgrades, such as dedicated bus lanes and signal priority systems, to improve the efficiency and timeliness of bus routes. By reducing travel times and increasing the reliability of the system, we can encourage more people to choose public transportation as their preferred mode of travel.

Second quarter campaign finance disclosure

Raised: $1,150

Spent: $1,213

Cash on hand: $63

Link to full disclosure here

Pre-General campaign finance disclosure

Did not file

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Second quarter campaign finance disclosure

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