The neighbors are upset this evening by the plan to transform an old church into a bar.

The church is at 714 Gallatin Pike in East Nashville.

Noise, garbage, and parking are all of the concerns of nearby homeowners.

“In fact, the opposition was so strong it represented every house on this block,” said owner Marc Grant.

Neighbors told News4 that they had properly informed their council member, Scott Davis.

There’s even a law saying, ‘Beer permits aren’t allowed within 100 feet of a school, daycare or home,’ but they said Davis helped the developer by voting for an exception just before leaving office.

“It certainly leaves you wondering who the local government is working for. Does it work for the voters or does it hold the hand of the promoters and get them to get permits that are in opposition? direct, ”Grant said.

News4 has found that this happens often.

In fact, the city made an exception to the beer permit rule 21 times between July 2018 and May 2019.

“It’s a law. So what’s the point in having a residential exemption if you just want to get around that?” Grant said.

Davis didn’t return our text or phone call.

Developer Jim Higgins said he’s planning a restaurant, not a bar.

Higgins said he worked with the homeowners agreeing to put up fencing and landscaping.

He agreed to close early in the week.

He also pointed out that Gallatin Pike is an extremely busy road.

There is a cash advance company and a Burger King on either side of the church.

Meanwhile, the owners said they plan to keep fighting and started by speaking to News4 to spread the word.

“It’s a microcosm of what can happen to you too. Certainly it impacts our street, but it could be your next street. Do you want to be run by a developer? If not, come support us,” a Grant said.

The neighborhood has a meeting Tuesday at the East Nashville Police Station at 6 p.m.

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