Metro Council approved the $3.8 billion operating budget at its meeting on Tuesday, including a reduction in the local portion of grocery tax in Davidson County.
Why it matters:The grocery tax reduction will provide some relief for families buying food on the heels of last year's larger property tax increase.
Zoom in: Mayor Freddie O'Connell touted the budget's investments in affordability initiatives.
Council approved it with some small changes, including additional funding for a program that helps tenants avoid evictions.
What he's saying: "More housing, better schools, higher employee pay, and tightening our spending in recognition of slowing growth all make a statement about our values," O'Connell said in a statement.
"This budget puts the most money toward our biggest challenge, affordability, by making the largest investment in affordable housing in our city's history and by putting money back into the pockets of our people."
