Nashville Mayor proposes $3.8B budget, boosting schools and housing, amid protests over potential tax hikes.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell outlined a $3.8 billion budget for 2026, increasing school funding by 13% and allocating $45 million for affordable housing. Despite promising the lowest property tax rate in decades, protests erupted over rising home values and living costs, with critics arguing that rising property appraisals could still lead to higher taxes. The budget also includes $50 million for first responders and technology improvements.