Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell has named members of a commission to investigate preparedness, response, and communication related to the winter ice storm that knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of homes, some for nearly 2 weeks.
The group will be chaired by former Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen, who also served as mayor of Nashville from 1991 to 1999.
A release from the mayor’s office identifies the members of the commission that he has appointed, which includes former Republican House Speaker Beth Harwell, Vice Mayor Angie Henderson, Vanderbilt University Director of Emergency Management Johnny Vanderbilt, and Nashville NAACP President Timothy Hughes, among others.
“Nashville’s recent ice storm was a once-in-a-generation event,” said Gov. Bredesen, and accepting the appointment to share the commission. “I believe that with any crisis, once things quiet down, it’s important to learn from it: what went right, and where things could use some shoring up. Mayor O’Connell’s establishment of this Commission shows real leadership and a strong commitment to effective local government. I’m honored he asked me to be involved.”
The commission is charged with conducting a comprehensive review of the storm response. The Commission will have investigative powers, including the ability to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of records pertinent to the investigation or any hearing, and to administer oaths to witnesses. The Commission also has the ability to hold hearings and request assistance from the Metropolitan Auditor.
The Commission’s initial report is due to Mayor O’Connell no later than six months after the first meeting, or by Aug. 23, 2026.
The Mayor and NES continue to suffer fall out from the failed preparation, response and transparency surrounding the ice storm, including calls to extend the board membership of NES to include surrounding counties that are served by the power company.
