District 6 Weekly Newsletter

Winter Coat Giveaway

Michelle and I had a great night at our 8th annual Christmas Coat giveaway with Santa at 1st G Family Life Center. Thanks to Kosair Charities, Keith Inman and The Kosair Charities Board, 7nt, Play Louisville, Toys For Tots, The UAW, Todd Dunn, Rev Bush, 1st G, Walmart , Kohl’s, Burlington’s, Al J Schneider Company’s, Scott Shoenberger, And all the JCPS Family Resource Centers :
Wheatley Elementary ,
Frayser Elementary ,
Cochran Elementary,
Brandies Elementary,
Engelhard Elementary,
McFarren Elementary

What's happening during Phase 3 of Our Money Our Voice

Want to know what happens to the ideas that residents submitted for how to spend $75,000 in District 6?

Check out the new Our Money Our Voice District Page!

https://louisvilleky.gov/government/center-health-equity/district-6

Here you will find information about:

• The ideas each neighborhood submitted
• Which ideas residents will get to vote on [February 15 - March 15]?
• Upcoming volunteer opportunities

Stay tuned for:

• Your voter guide
• Voting event dates & times
• More information about what happens to the ideas that won’t be voted on

Green Light: Young Earth Activist Art Gallery

DuPont Manual High School students held its Young Earth Activists 2nd Annual Art Activism Gallery, Green Light. Fantastic job by these amazing students who created pieces that focused on environmental issues in urban areas. 

California Neighborhood Plan "Save The Date"

Honoring Rev. Charles Elliott

What a special night at Louisville Metro Council, Rev Charles Elliott was honored for all of his hard work with Jesus And A Job helping people be reintegrated back into society, taking vacant and abandoned property and turning it into something the community can be proud of and providing housing to those who are so desperately in need. GOD Bless you Reverend Elliott!!

RiverLink: Joint Board and Tolling Body Approve Resolutions

RESOLUTION PASSED TO UPDATE RIVERLINK BUSINESS RULES

Conversion offer will be extended in the coming year

 The Joint Board and Tolling Body met today and approved resolutions ratifying selection of a new toll services advisor (TSA) and amending business rules for RiverLink, the all-electronic tolling system for the Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project.

The Joint Board approved a resolution authorizing the Indiana Finance Authority (IFA) to procure the services of HNTB Corporation to serve as a toll oversight advisor (TSA) after the previous contract expired at the end of 2018.  HNTB was selected after a request for proposals was issued this fall.

The Tolling Body, the group that sets tolling policies, passed a resolution making several changes to the business rules. Several of the changes are designed to update, refine and better define the framework for operations of the tolling system.

“We are approaching the end of our second year of tolling,” said Megan McLain, innovative finance manger with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. “The resolutions passed today reflect some of the changing needs of our maturing tolling system. Many are housekeeping issues to ensure our business rules are up to date and reflect day-to-day operations of the tolling system. We also want business rules to reflect updates expected in 2019.”

Updated Customer Service Hours

The new year will bring updated hours for RiverLink customer service centers. Two customer service centers and the customer call center are currently open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Customer service needs have decreased in the second year of tolling. By summer 2019, customer service hours are expected to change to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Friday. Customer service is always available online, 24 hours a day/seven days a week.

Inactivity Fee

Kentucky and Indiana have yet to institute inactivity fees for account holders, and updated business rules reflect that the fees are not in effect at this point. After 365 days of inactivity, the states can charge an inactivity fee of $5 a month until an account is depleted and the account is closed. The inactivity fee is designed to clear the books after an extended time of inactivity. Customers would first receive a notice of an approaching inactivity fee. As a new tolling system, the states have not found the need to implement the inactivity fee at this point.

Auto-Replenishment

If the payment method on file fails multiple times, the customers will be notified, and the payment source will be removed from the account.

Refunds

Refunds are provided in the form of payment received. Only full refunds are applied to credit card payments. Any partial refunds are provided by check.

Pay-by-Plate Business Rules

The updated business rule reflects that drivers who sign up for Pay by Plate notifications are notified of crossings on tolled bridges for a period of 30 days.

Dispute Process

For disputes taken over the phone by a customer service representative that require documentation, drivers must provide required documentation within 15 days. If the documentation is not provided, the dispute will be rejected.

Consumer Price Index (CPI)

Toll rates are adjusted yearly on July 1. Rates increase annually by 2.5 percent, unless the rate of inflation (as measured by the Consumer Price Index) is higher. Amended business rules clarify which index is being used to determine CPI.

Extended Conversion Offer in 2019

“We’re always evaluating the tolling system and working to make it the best it can be for our customers,” said Paul Boone, Indiana Department of Transportation interim director of tolling for the Ohio River bridges. “This past year, we added a Pay by Plate option for drivers without prepaid accounts and transponders. In the coming year, we’ll make it easier for drivers who owe back tolls to open an account and save money.”

A one-time conversion offer allows drivers who owe back tolls to have tolls lowered to transponder rates and late fees waived when they open a prepaid account. The offer is currently available to drivers who have not reached collection status (4^th toll notice). By summer 2019, the one-time offer is expected to be available to all drivers who owe back tolls, including drivers who have received a collection notice.

Another updated business rule would allow the states to authorize an amnesty period at a future date. Late fees would be waived if tolls are paid in full. There are currently no plans to implement an amnesty period, but the new rule provides a future option to collect outstanding tolls.

Joint Board and Tolling Body

The Joint Board and Tolling Body include transportation and finance leaders from Indiana and Kentucky. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) commissioner, the Indiana public finance director, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet secretary and the Kentucky Public Transportation Infrastructure Authority (KPTIA) chairman, or their designees, make up the Joint Board. The Tolling Body includes the four Joint Board members and an appointed member from each state.

The Tolling Body sets tolling policies. The Joint Board was created to have long-term oversight and management responsibility for the Ohio Rivers Bridges Project.

Bi-state tolling representatives handle the day-to-day administration of the tolling system.

Note: Resolutions and supporting documents from the meeting will be posted at riverlink.com https://riverlink.com/about/joint-board/.

Mental Health First Aid Training

Kentucky Exhibitions Timeline

Responsibility Update from the Kentucky Distillers' Association

The KDA encourages you to enjoy Kentucky spirits responsibly with our safe ride discount. Use code KYDISTILLERS for a discount on your first ride anywhere on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour with Lyft.

Register for unique camp for teens: Using social media for social good

Register now for the PeaceCasters Making Social Media That Matters Camp! bit.ly/pcwintercamp19 Wednesday, January 2, 9 am - 5 pm Thursday, January 3, 9 am - 5 pm Friday, January 4, 9 am - 5 pm Social media is not just a way to connect with friends, it's a way to tell the world your story. Young people benefit when they understand the power of sharing their lived experiences and how to best send their message out into the world. Youth are leading many of today's movements for social change, and they're doing it through social media. Let's build up their skills. This three-day PeaceCasters workshop is for people age 12-17 who want to use Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and all social media to create positive change and affect their world (and maybe make some memes while they’re at it). Our focus will be on building communication skills, responding to harassment, empowered changemaking through storytelling, making creative videos, and best practices for a social media lifestyle. It will be designed and presented by other young people and is 100% hands-on. Session topics will include: Social Media Success Stories Going Viral - Building Followings Creating Messages With Meaning Sharing YOUR story—why what you say matters Creating Graphics That Pop Responding to Online Harassment and Trolling Lessons from local and national activists Participants must be ready and willing to interact in small groups. The $60 fee covers lunch and snacks. Scholarships are available. Online registration and a downloadable form are available on our website.

Russell Community Garden Meeting

South Louisville's Annual Meeting Feb 23rd

When: Saturday, February 23rd from 9:30am - 12:30pm Where: Americana, 4801 Southside Drive What: 

A time where we all come together to share ideas, hear from experts, and swap information. This event is free and open to the community.

SLCM is coordinating conversation around 2-3 topics that YOU choose. Vote here for the topic that you think is timely and relevant to our community. Are you interested in discussing child hunger, social isolation that our elderly neighbors face, or panhandling? Let us know! We’ll announce the topics and speakers at the end of January.

This event is for individuals, nonprofit organizations, faith communities, neighborhood associations, and all who are interested in making South Louisville a safe and welcoming place to live.

This will also be an opportunity to discuss community resources and better ways to connect our neighbors in need to these opportunities.

A light breakfast will be provided. We ask that you RSVP through Eventbrite so we know how to prepare.

Pets of the Week

CAT OF THE WEEK:

Can you give Apple a home for the holidays? The 2-year-old Tabby is free to adopt with an approved application. Apple is friendly but she can be shy in new surroundings. She’s already spayed, microchipped and up-to-date on vaccinations.  You can meet Apple at Animal House Adoption Center (3705 Manslick Rd.) Tuesday-Sunday, 12-6pm. Send questions about Apple to animalservicesadoption@louisvilleky.gov  or call 502-473-PETS.

DOG OF THE WEEK:

Dashing through the shelter, a big smile on display, around the corner he goes… barking the whole way!  Dasher can’t wait to meet you. The 2-year-old Labrador Retriever mix is very friendly  and playful. Dasher’s adoption fee is waived for an approved adopter, thanks to the Pay It Forward program.  Dasher is neutered, microchipped and up-to-date on vaccinations. To meet or adopt Dasher, visit Animal House Adoption Center, located at 3705 Manslick Rd. Tuesday-Sunday 12-6pm. Questions? Email Louisville Metro Animal Services at animalservicesadoption@louisvilleky.gov, or call 502-473-PETS.

Blanket Drive for Homeless

Urban Bourbon Half Marathon presented by Jim Beam® Again Recognized by BibRave 100

Runner nominations, running industry surveys, and runner votes decided the Best Races in America

Louisville, Ky. - December 18, 2018 - BibRave, an online running community that provides race-related information to running race participants worldwide, announced that the Louisville Sports Commission's Urban Bourbon Half Marathon presented by Jim Beam® (UBHM) was named the number two best half marathon in the country as part of The BibRave 100: A Definitive List of the Best Races in America. The UBHM also was listed among the top 10 races with awesome medals and bling, as well as one of the top 10 races with exceptional race management. The UBHM was one of only a handful of races to receive multiple accolades in the 2018 BibRave 100.

The UBHM is an experiential destination event that celebrates and promotes 200 years of Louisville and Kentucky distilling history, combined with a half marathon route that showcases one of Louisville's most scenic parks and provides a distinct downtown running experience. 2019 will be the sixth year for the UBHM, which features exclusive bourbon experiences and a post-race party that in 2017 was heralded by Runners' World magazine as one of the best half marathon after-parties in the country.

"The Urban Bourbon Half Marathon presented by Jim Beam® has established itself as a destination boutique half marathon race; in 2018, nearly 50 percent of our participants traveled from outside of the Louisville region," said Karl F. Schmitt, Jr., president and CEO of the Louisville Sports Commission. "We're honored that BibRave is again recognizing the UBHM as one of the country's best half marathons. Our team takes a lot of pride in putting on a first-class event and it is rewarding to see that these efforts are appreciated."

"Having BibRave include the UBHM in multiple categories among its Definitive List of the Best Races in America is quite an honor," said Race Director Michael Clemons. "This acknowledgement reinforces that the UBHM offers its participants a quality course with a beautiful fall setting, and terrific pre- and post-race experiences built around Kentucky bourbon, foods and music."                                     

"All of the races listed on The BibRave 100 are shining examples of how to put on a great event, and we couldn't be more pleased with the list," said Tim Murphy, co-founder of BibRave. "Runners put a lot of time and research into planning their race calendars, and we hope The BibRave 100 is a helpful tool highlighting some truly wonderful races."

Urban Homesteading 2019 Course Registration

COLONELS ACT ON LOUISVILLE HOMELESS; ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO JOIN IN

The Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels (HOKC) will award a $25,000 emergency grant for specific tangible items to the Coalition for the Homeless, a Louisville organization working to prevent and end homelessness.  HOKC Commanding General Lynn Ashton said, “Our intent is to get the ball rolling and encourage other non-profit organizations and the Louisville community to join us and partner with the Coalition.” HOKC Executive Director Sherry Crose added, “We recognize the hard work of Metro Government with the challenge of homelessness in the downtown area, but they cannot do it themselves. This is the home of our headquarters and also where the state’s biggest homeless population exists.” Coalition for the Homeless Executive Director Natalie Harris said: “We cannot thank Metro Louisville and the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels enough for seeing this important community need and leading the way to make change. We can reach the goal of helping those in need by following Metro Government’s lead and the HOKC through gifts from our compassionate community, but only if everyone gives what they can to help our homeless neighbors. Louisville Metro Councilwoman Barbara Sexton Smith added: “I am grateful and not surprised that more organizations and individuals are stepping up to help those experiencing homelessness in our community. Hats off to the Honorable Order of the Kentucky Colonels for leading the way with a major financial donation! It is my hope many more will follow.”  HOKC is a 501(c)(3) supporting Kentucky charities and worthy organizations through its Good Works Program. All donations are given by Colonels appointed by the Governor, who chose to exercise this honor in a meaningful way.  For more information go to www.kycolonels.org.

Feed The Need will be December 22

Take a look at BBB’s hot topics for December 2018!

1. Watch out for fake shipping emails from “UPS” and “FedEx” saying your package was not delivered. If you click on these links, you could be giving away personal information to a scammer or downloading a computer virus!
2. Don’t fall for a work-from-home scam claiming to be with Amazon. The job promises high pay to list products, post reviews, and other easy work – just purchase a $200 enrollment kit to get started. This is a scam!
3. While the Facebook “Secret Sister Gift Exchange” may sound like fun, this is actually illegal! This is a modernized version of a chain letter, simply buy one $10 gift, add your name to a list, and receive up to 36 gifts in the mail. Don’t fall for it!
4. If you are purchasing gift cards as presents, be sure to examine the card first for any signs of tampering. Scammers have been known to record the card number, place it back on the rack, then drain the money from the card after it has been purchased.
5. Be wary if you receive a phone call from your bank regarding your account. A local consumer told BBB she received a phone call from her “bank” to discuss “consolidation or repayment options” due to new changes. If you suspect an issue, it is best to call the number on the back of your debit card.
6. If you see a social media post for a $75 Costco coupon to celebrate their 50^th anniversary, don’t click on it! This link sends you to a webpage that asks for personal information and requires you to take surveys. Don’t fall for this scam!
7. Business owners: watch out for the check overpayment scam! A Louisville business owner was contacted by an out-of-state customer for a job. The “customer” sent almost double the amount of the requested deposit and asked the business to send the extra to someone else.
8. Don’t fall for the latest utility scam! BBB has received several reports that scammers are claiming to be with LG&E and threatening to cut off service if payment is not received immediately. If you get a call like this, hang up the phone and contact them directly.
9. Did you get an email about your iCloud account? A local business received an email saying they recently purchased renewal storage through iCloud and included an attachment with “full details.” Remember – never click on links from someone you don’t know!
10. If you see a shady ad, report it to BBB AdTruth at bbb.org/adtruth. This program teaches consumers how to spot bad advertising and provides a place to report misleading or confusing advertisements for BBB investigators.

Eastern Parkway Project Third Street Closure

Louisville Water’s work on the 48-inch water main continues.  Beginning the week of January 7 all southbound and northbound lanes of South Third Street between Eastern Parkway and Winkler will be closed intermittently for approximately one week.  We are working with the State Transportation Cabinet on the exact closure dates and as soon as finalized we will let you know. 

How will winter affect New Dixie Highway work?⛄

How will winter affect New Dixie Highway work?

Weather is always a factor in outdoor construction. While many types of work – excavating, for example – can be done at almost any temperature, working with concrete and asphalt requires warm and dry conditions.

This means that even on some sunny days, work can be disrupted if the temperature is not above freezing for an extended period of time. (Briefly reaching that temperature at 3 p.m., won’t work.)  

“We understand that it’s frustrating to see a lane blocked and no work being done,” said John Callihan, The New Dixie Highway project manager. “But opening and closing lanes can’t realistically be done multiple times a week.”  

In addition, construction crews will be off from Dec. 21 to Jan. 2. Crews have been working many weekends to keep on schedule and this is their first significant scheduled break since the project began a year ago.

Construction Impacts on Businesses

From the beginning, The New Dixie Highway Project team has worked to communicate with local businesses, helping them anticipate both the short-term and long-term effects of the $35 million project. In the long term, a safer, more efficient roadway should be a net positive for businesses that rely on it, but in the short term the presence of barrels, increased congestion, and working crews can create challenges on both the individual and organizational level. Please remember that businesses in work zones are still open – and can be accessed even if not in the way you are most used to. Please continue to patronize your favorite locations during this period of construction

Leaf drop-off period extended

Three leaf disposal locations will be available through December 22 Louisville, KY (December 5, 2018) – Louisville Metro leaf drop-off service, originally scheduled to end December 1, has been extended by three weeks.  Metro residents not mulching autumn leaves into their lawns or using curbside collection have the option to dispose of them at one of three drop-off sites through December 22. Only loose leaves will be accepted. Containers used to bring leaves to the drop-off sites must be disposed of off-site by residents. Leaf drop off sites: Public Works Yard 10500 Lower River Road (enter from Bethany Lane) Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.   Public Works East District Operations Center 595 Hubbards Lane Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.   Public Works Waste Reduction Center 636 Meriwether Avenue Tuesday – Friday:  9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday:  9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Development Notification

Police Reports This Week

Crime Mapping

First Division

Major Andy McClinton Andrew McClinton began his career in law enforcement on January 22, 2001 with the former Louisville Division of Police (LPD). As a patrol officer, he served in the former Sixth District (LPD) and First Division. As a detective, he served in the First Division Flex Platoon and in the Criminal Intelligence Unit. He was also a member of the Dignitary Protection Team for three (3) years. After being promoted to Sergeant in 2008, he served in the First Division, Robbery Unit, Professional Standards Unit and the Public Integrity Unit. In 2016, he was promoted to Lieutenant and worked in the Third Division and Administrative Services.  In 2017, McClinton was promoted to Major and commanded the Administrative Services Division. Major McClinton holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science from Hanover College. He is a graduate of the Academy of Police Supervision at Eastern Kentucky University and the 136th Session of the Southern Police Institute’s (SPI) Administrative Officer’s Course at the University of Louisville. Major McClinton is married with two (2) children.

Second Division

Major Ryan Bates Bates began his law enforcement career in August 1997 with the Louisville Division of Police. He served in the former Second, Fourth, and Sixth Districts. He was also a member of the Street Crimes Unit and the Gang Squad. After merger, Bates served as a patrol officer in the First Division. He was promoted to sergeant in August 2005. He served as a sergeant in the Second Division where he supervised the mid-watch platoon, FLEX Unit, and Detectives Unit. In 2012, Bates was promoted to lieutenant and assigned to the late-watch platoon in the Fourth Division. He also served in the Second Division, where he supervised the mid-watch platoon and Division Resource Officers (DROs).   After being promoted to the rank of major, Bates commanded the Fourth Division. Major Bates served on the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for 14 years. He served on the SWAT Team as an officer, sergeant, and lieutenant. He was appointed as the Assistant Commander in 2012 and Commander in 2015. Bates has also served on two (2) task forces which were created to address violent crime in the community. Major Bates is a graduate of Xavier University and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Business. He is also a graduate of the Southern Police Institute’s (SPI) Administrative Officers Course.

Fourth Division

Major Joshua Judah Major Judah has been a police officer for 16 years, joining the former Louisville Division of Police in 2001. He served as a patrol officer all across Louisville, in neighborhoods ranging from Crescent Hill, Clifton, The Highlands, Downtown, Phoenix Hill, Old Louisville, Russell, Shawnee and Portland. He served as a detective in the Crimes Against Children Unit for three years, investigating physical, sexual, and internet crimes against children across Louisville Metro. He was promoted to sergeant in 2009, where he served in the 3rd Division in southwest Louisville. He was promoted to lieutenant in 2011 and served in the Chief’s Office and the 4th Division. Major Judah was most recently the commander of LMPD’s Technical Services Unit, which encompasses all of LMPD’s technical projects. Examples of these projects include body cameras, in-car cameras, investigative software applications, in-car computers, and gunshot detection systems. Major Judah was also responsible for the Real Time Crime Center, which monitors LMPD’s nearly 200 surveillance cameras, as well as the Crime Information Center, which analyzes crime trends and provides strategic intelligence for the LMPD and its law-enforcement partners in the region. Major Judah holds a BA in History from Centre College and is currently pursuing his Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Louisville. He was the recipient of LMPD’s Commanding Officer of the Year award in 2015. He is a graduate of the Academy of Police Supervision class 39 at Eastern Kentucky University, the 127th Session of the Southern Police Institute’s Administrative Officer’s Course at the University of Louisville, and the 263rd Session of the FBI National Academy. Major Judah lives in Louisville with his wife Katie and their daughters, Miriam and Leah.

Entire Division 

North End

Job Announcement

Utility Trainee- Sanitary

Job Summary

Under direct supervision, performs physical, unskilled tasks associated with sewer and drainage maintenance. Must comply with Federal, State, Local and MSD requirements and regulations.

For a more detailed position description, pay information, and to apply please visit our website: http://www.louisvillemsd.org/Careers

Join a Board or Commission

If you are interested in volunteering for one of Louisville Metro Government's Boards and Commissions, now is the time to start. By being a part of a board or commission, you will offer your time and your talents to improve the quality of life in our community.

There are approximately 100 boards and commissions with many areas of interest, including business and economic development, land planning, parks and recreation, public health and public safety.

To learn more about applications, please visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/mayor-greg-fischer/interested-serving-board-or-commission '

Please find below a list of boards and commissions for an opportunity to serve:

BOARD VACANCIES

• Metropolitan Business Development Corporation
• Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board
• Bardstown Road Overlay District
• Building Code Board of Appeals
• Cemetery Board
• Civil Service Board
• Code Enforcement Board
• Community Action Partnership
• Jefferson County Public Law Library
• Deputy Sheriff Merit Board
• Downtown Development Review Overlay Board
• Downtown Management District
• Ethics Commission
• Fire Protection Districts (Fairdale, Harrods Creek, Highview, Lake Dreamland, Lyndon, Middletown, Okolona, St. Matthews & Worthington)
• Hazard Materials Ordinance Appeals & Overseers Board
• Housing Authority Board
• Human Relations Commission Advocacy Board
• Human Relations Commission Enforcement Board
• Kentuckiana Works
• Landmarks
• Library Advisory Commission
• Louisville Arena Authority, Inc.
• Louisville Public Media
• Merit Board
• Medical Center Commission of Jefferson County
• PARC Board of Commissioners
• Police Merit Board
• Redevelopment Authority
• Science Center
• Urban Renewal Commission
• Vacant Property Review Commission
• Waterworks
• Zoo Foundation Board

REMINDERS

Visit http://www.louisvilleky.gov/MetroPolice/Patrol+Divisions/ to sign up to receive the LMPD’s new crime alert update for your neighborhood. Simply select your LMPD division number, and click "Subscribe to Crime Alerts by Beat" to begin receiving the update.

Visit http://mapit.louisvilleky.gov/  and type in your address to find out when your junk pick-up date is as well as street cleanings and additional information.

Visit https://lge-ku.com/outages/report/streetlight to report a street light outage in your neighborhood. When reporting a street light outage, be sure to have the pole number, which can be found on a metal plate on the pole. 

If you would like to unsubscribe to this e-newsletter (though we don't know why you ever would) please email Shalanna.Taylor@louisvilleky.gov with the subject "REMOVE". We won't be hurt (much).

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