NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Tensions ran high during a recent meeting in Nashville as local business owners voiced frustration over soaring property tax assessments, warning they are being priced out of the city’s core.

Several owners gathered to confront Vivian Wilhoite, pressing for immediate relief and criticizing what they described as a lack of short-term solutions. Many argued that the current tax burden is unsustainable, particularly for small and long-established businesses.

“The group of people in here are the highest taxed people in the state of Tennessee,” said one business owner during the meeting.

Wilhoite defended her office’s role, emphasizing that property tax rates are determined by city leadership not the assessor’s office. At times, the discussion became heated as owners pushed back, saying they felt unheard and unsupported.

“I’m telling you, we did the work. We got the receipt. And we’re here to move you from feelings to facts,” Wilhoite said.

While the assessor noted that business owners have the right to appeal their property appraisals, some attendees argued the appeals process is too slow to offer meaningful relief. One business owner, who left the meeting early, questioned what other options exist beyond filing appeals.

City officials acknowledged the delays. A representative from the mayor’s office said expanding appraisal staff could help shorten wait times and improve transparency in the process.

“Shrinking the gap between when you appeal and when you get your answer is really important,” the official said, adding that the mayor also wants to increase transparency.

In the meantime, some longtime business owners warn the rising costs could fundamentally change the character of downtown Nashville.

“This is the end of an era of tourism in downtown Nashville,” one owner said.