Is $300K enough? Economist weighs Nashville small business relief amid higher property tax
By Chris Nalls
Mon, September 21, 2026
Updated: Mon, September 21, 2026 at 8:41 AM
As Nashville businesses grapple with higher property tax costs, Metro is considering a $300,000 small-business incentive package to offer some relief. (WZTV)
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topics:
- Nashville
- Property-taxes
- Small-business
- Incentive
- Economic-impact
- Metro
- Julio-Rivas
- Lower-Broadway
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — As Nashville businesses face rising property tax costs, Metro is proposing a $300,000 small-business incentive to help ease the burden.
The economist Julio Rivas expresses skepticism about the effectiveness of this amount, stating, "I don't think that's enough money to take care of the problem." He highlights the delicate balance between ensuring city services and maintaining a healthy business environment.
Rivas explains that higher taxes and assessments can significantly impact businesses, leaving them with limited options, such as raising prices, which could drive customers away. He also emphasizes the potential ripple effect on workers and other businesses that depend on them.
The proposed incentive, while intended to aid small businesses, will ultimately depend on individual business needs and eligibility to determine its overall impact.