Nashville’s Night Mayor Benton McDonough Enhances Safety and Community Engagement in the City’s Vibrant Nightlife

Meet Benton McDonough: Nashville’s Night Mayor

Nashville is known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, ensuring that residents and visitors alike have plenty to enjoy after the sun sets. But did you know that the city also boasts a unique role called the Night Mayor? That’s right! Enter Benton McDonough, who has been making waves in this position since it was officially established under the administration of former Mayor John Cooper in 2022.

A New Role in Nashville

While the title of Night Mayor might sound a bit whimsical, it actually carries a lot of responsibility. As the executive director of the Metro Nashville Beer Board since 2017, McDonough is well-equipped to handle the challenges that come with nightlife in the Music City. His primary role? To be a bridge between the businesses, residents, visitors, and the Metro government—focused on enhancing the quality of life and public safety for all.

Listening to the Community

“It’s something different on a daily basis,” McDonough shares, his enthusiasm evident in his voice. He dives into various pressing issues like noise complaints, safety programs, and supporting businesses. It’s not just about having fun in the city; it’s about making sure everyone feels safe and secure while enjoying Nashville’s nightlife.

One noteworthy initiative that has come from his office is the “Angel Shot” program. If a woman orders an Angel Shot, it’s a secret signal for bar staff to know she needs help. This initiative dovetails with the efforts of the Sexual Assault Center’s Safe Bar program, which has seen a remarkable ramp-up in participation, going from only a few bars trained to nearly 40.

Tackling Critical Issues

An interesting aspect of McDonough’s role has been working on sound issues in Nashville, an area he admits he had no previous experience in. With professional guidance, McDonough is aiming to create a fund to help businesses address their noise concerns without suffering financially. Ensuring that businesses can thrive while keeping the community happy is a balancing act, and he’s all for making it work.

Safety First

Another significant focus for the Night Mayor is drug overdose prevention. McDonough’s collaboration with organizations like Gibson Guitar’s TEMPO has opened doors for distributing lifesaving medications like Narcan across local bars. This proactive approach is crucial as it not only supports the establishments but serves as a safeguard for those indulging in the city’s nightlife.

McDonough also highlights the invaluable presence of Red Frogs, a safety group that has helped countless festival-goers during major events like CMA Fest and the Fourth of July. Their presence has made a considerable difference, making it easier for Metro police to focus on serious issues rather than babysitting.

Fostering Community and Connections

As Nashville continues to flourish, McDonough recognizes the need to address challenges faced by the homeless community and provide greater access to mental health resources. He believes that by tackling these issues head-on, the city can maintain its reputation as a friendly, hospitable destination.

Encouraging Local Engagement

A passionate advocate for community involvement, McDonough is keen to have Nashville residents rediscover downtown. Often, he sees complaints online about the city’s nightlife, which is why he is working to provide tours of the entertainment district. This initiative aims to inform residents about the hard work that goes into keeping the area safe while also highlighting the many offerings outside downtown.

Get Involved!

McDonough extends an open invitation to those interested in contributing their ideas or asking questions about Nashville’s nightlife. Contacting the Mayor’s Office of Nightlife is easy—just email nightlife@nashville.gov or give them a call at 615-862-6751. As the Night Mayor, Benton McDonough wants to ensure that nightlife in Nashville remains enjoyable, safe, and accommodating for everyone.

So next time you’re out enjoying the music and excitement of Nashville, remember there’s a dedicated leader working behind the scenes to ensure your experience is a positive one. Cheers to that!