East Bank development draws warnings from river‑dependent businesses; item deferred to April 2

Several small‑business owners, artists and residents urged the Metropolitan Council to prioritize protections for river access, small businesses, artists and affordable housing as the council considers large East Bank development plans under BL2024-258.

Annie Klaver, owner and master captain of River Queen Voyages, told council members she and other outfitters provide river rescue assistance and rely on day‑to‑day river access. "We provide kayaks, river scavenger hunts, and a bridal pontoon… In warmer months, we are on the East Bank almost daily," Klaver said, asking the council to preserve road and river access for operators.

Other speakers — including Diamond Bell and Ashley See, who identified themselves as artists affected by rising rents — urged the council to require three‑ and two‑bedroom affordable units, sliding‑scale childcare, and contracting that prioritizes local hiring and registered apprenticeships. Ashley See said she has been pushed out of Nashville by high rents and urged protections for artists and creative jobs.

BL2024-258, a package of surplus property, ground leases and a master development agreement for the East Bank campus, was placed on the agenda but deferred by rule to the April 2 meeting to allow further review and coordination.