NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — As volunteers continue to clean up North Nashville, they also have a strong message for residents there: “don’t sell out the North.”
As residents work hard to rebuild their homes, they are also dealing with an extra burden -- the threat of gentrification.
Some organizations are worried about developers taking advantage of people there.
"We have already got word from residents of getting approached by developers," said Charlane Oliver, co-founder of the Equity Alliance, "We got to keep character of these communities... we owe it to the people here to keep their homes and help them stay where they are."
Oliver explains that North Nashville is a historically black neighborhood. It's something she's proud of and not a characteristic she wants to change.
Oliver says its important for homeowners and tenants to verify these developers are legitimate and understand their options. Some developers are even offering cash which could be a scam.
LiFran Fort has lived in north Nashville for almost three decades and she's witnessed big changes. She just hopes if more change comes, it's for the right reasons.
"Gentrification is a two edge sword because it comes in to develop run down properties which is great but that effort to upgrade property can interfere with people's lives," Fort said.
For now, North Nashvillians say it will take a lot more than a tornado to run them out of their beloved community.
There will be public meetings tomorrow at 12 and 6 p.m. where homeowners and tenants can talk about their options with attorneys, insurance agents and local officials. It will be held at Lee Chapel AME Church on Dr. DB Todd Junior Boulevard.
