Top O'Connell aide Bob Mendes to leave the mayor's office
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Bob Mendes. Photo courtesy of the Nashville mayor's office
Bob Mendes, the prominent former city councilman, is leaving his role as development chief for Mayor Freddie O'Connell.
Why it matters: Nashville is one of the most desirable economic development markets in the country, making Mendes' role as the city's chief negotiator a vital one. He worked on everything from pro sports venues to massive corporate relocations and smaller neighborhood revitalization plans.
- He'll remain on the job through the end of October. The Nashville Banner first reported the news.
Between the lines: In his two years on the job, Mendes oversaw the East Bank development and was the point person for major projects hanging in the balance, such as a new Tennessee Performing Arts Center and the Oracle corporate campus.
The intrigue: Mendes is the second top aide to leave the O'Connell administration, following former chief of staff Marjorie Pomeroy-Wallace.
- Mendes was under fire recently from state House Speaker Cameron Sexton, particularly over the TPAC negotiation.
- Business lobbyists have been growing antsy to see some of the major projects come to fruition.
What we're hearing: The timing of two top aides departing sends the Metro gossip hounds into overdrive. Multiple sources say there's no negativity surrounding Mendes' departure.
- He is leaving for personal reasons and to return to the private sector. Prior to serving in the O'Connell administration, Mendes worked as an attorney.
Flashback: Previously, Mendes spent two terms on the Metro Council, where he was a leading progressive voice as well as a vocal critic of some of the city's economic development deals. He was perhaps the loudest voice opposing the new Titans stadium project.
- Mendes was also a fierce advocate over several budget cycles for addressing the city's shaky finances. He pushed unsuccessfully for a property tax increase, before serving as the budget chair in 2020 when the largest hike in Metro history was approved.
What they're saying: Mendes singled out the revitalization of the Rivergate Mall, the affordable housing commitments in the East Bank plan, the new Ascend Amphitheater contract and a new Nashville Fire Department headquarters among his accomplishments in the last two years.
- "Bob's legacy will no doubt be that of someone who worked tirelessly to deliver for Nashvillians, and I'm grateful he chose to spend the last two years setting a strong foundation for this administration on some of our most important work," O'Connell said in a statement.
What we're watching: With time running out on Mendes's tenure, it wouldn't be surprising to see quick progress on some of the lingering economic development projects.
- There have been rumors for months about a possible fairgrounds racetrack deal. An agreement between the city and TPAC is another development worth tracking.