Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 12/30/2022 11:52 AM EST
COUNCILWOMAN DR. BARBARA SHANKLIN
(502) 574-1102 / 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202
Dr. Barbara Shanklin District 2 Councilwoman 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202 (502) 574-1102 Barbara.Shanklin@louisvilleky.gov
Caleb Howard Legislative Assistant Caleb.Howard@louisvilleky.gov
On the third Tuesday of each month, a Community Meeting is held to give residents an opportunity to be informed, discuss ideas and share. Be part of the change we want to see for our community. Join us at 6:00PM to share with Councilwoman Dr. Barbara Shanklin.
JOIN US IN-PERSON NEXT MONTH TO MEET WITH COUNCILWOMAN SHANKLIN AT NEWBURG LIBRARY (4800 EXETER AVE.)
***DECEMBER'S MEETING HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO THE HOLIDAYS***
Louisville Metro Police Department 6th Division Questions? Contact Us
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**Based on a 7-day rolling average; Switched on 10/19/2020 to electronic laboratory reports as the sole source of data for the positivity rate. Learn more about how KDPH determines the Statewide Positivity Rate. Note: Data includes cases of COVID-19 reported to KDPH.
PLEASE NOTE:
IF YOU NEED A COVID VACCINE OR BOOSTER, VISIT: https://govstatus.egov.com/ky-covid-vaccine.
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The websites above will direct you to the nearest testing/vaccine provider based upon your ZIP code. The vaccine site also offers transportation assistance for those needing help getting to their nearest vaccine provider.
Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville
Mayor Fischer unveils new historical marker at Metro Hall in honor of the Louisville Black Six
Group of business people and activists were falsely accused of plotting to destroy buildings in West End during week-long protest in 1968
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 30, 2022) – Mayor Greg Fischer today unveiled a historical marker in honor of the Louisville Black Six – a group of business people and activists falsely accused in 1968 of plotting to destroy buildings in the West End during a week-long protest that occurred during a time of civil rights protests throughout America.
Two of the Black Six members – Manfred Reid Sr. and Sam Hawkins – joined in the unveiling, along with family members of two others who’ve since died and others involved in their defense.
The court case against the Black Six – Reid, Hawkins, Ruth Bryant, Walter “Pete” Cosby, James Cortez and Robert Kuyu Sims – stretched on for two years before going to trial, where then-Judge Rush Nicholson ruled prosecutors hadn't presented enough evidence to warrant the charges. He directed the jury to issue a verdict of not guilty.
In May 2022, during a Lean Into Louisville event discussing the case, Mayor Fischer asked if anyone from the city had ever apologized and after being told they had not, he did so. "Until we acknowledge the harm that's happened in the past, it's hard to move on," the Mayor said at the time. "I wasn't there then, but I'm here now. I represent the institution of city government. I apologize."
A month later, during a Juneteenth luncheon organized by the Metro Human Relations Commission, Mayor Fischer offered a broad and more formal apology to Louisville's Black residents, acknowledging the city's role in instituting and upholding racist systems that have oppressed them for generations.
"I cannot erase all the injustices from the first slave ships to today. But what I can do is offer a sincere apology from me as a person and, more importantly, on behalf of the institution of the city government of Louisville. I take responsibility for the system that I have been elected to lead – the past and the present."
Today, noting that the Black Six marker unveiling was the last scheduled press conference in his 12-year tenure as Mayor, he said, “With all of the progress that has been made in our city these past 12 years, I wanted this official Metro Government acknowledgment of this history, this injustice, and this historical recognition to be my last public act as Louisville’s 50th Mayor, symbolizing, I hope, how important the march toward justice is. The work will never be over, but we must each do our part to move it forward every day.”
“It is beyond time to rectify the official misdeeds of our past but not so late that an apology doesn’t matter,” he continued. “Recognition, contrition and corrective action must happen so all Louisvillians may step together into a more equitable and equal future, built upon an honest acknowledgment and injustice of the past.”
Manfred Reid said the event today “represents the transformation of Louisville city into a more diverse community, moving toward the social and economic advancement of the city at large.”
Sam Hawkins expressed his appreciation for Mayor Fischer’s public apology in May, adding, “Thanks, Mr. Mayor, for acknowledging the wrongs done in the past by Louisville city government.”
Cheri Bryant Hamilton, daughter of Black Six member Ruth Bryant, recalled an admonition she often heard growing up: “But, you’ve got to know the history!”
“Today, in 2022, what happened more than 50 years ago to those scapegoated for the 1968 civil disorders is a distant memory to many, and never known to most,” she said. “This marker will hopefully encourage the community to learn the lessons only the past can teach, and remind us of the importance of speaking up and fighting against injustice anywhere so that our basic constitutional rights will never again be violated.”
The Black Six marker, standing on the grounds of Metro Hall, reads:
“In May 1968, a traffic stop of a Black schoolteacher, Charles Thomas, turned violent, leading to a Louisville Police officer’s suspension, firing, then reinstatement.
The reinstatement touched off days of civil unrest after a peaceful rally at 28th and Greenwood in the Parkland neighborhood. The National Guard was called in to restore peace.
Six Black Americans, who later became known as the “Black Six,” were scapegoated and falsely charged with conspiracy in connection with the unrest, and faced additional accusations of planning to blow up oil refineries in the West End and destroy private property.
Members of the Black Six were Ruth Bryant, James Cortez, Walter T. ‘Pete’ Cosby, Samuel Hawkins, Manfred Reid and Robert ‘Kuyu’ Sims.
Some of them barely knew each other, lost their livelihoods, and suffered irreparable harm to their reputations.
The criminal conspiracy charges against them were dismissed in 1970 when Judge S. Rush Nicholson directed a verdict of acquittal, citing a lack of evidence, and threw the case out of Criminal Court 2, which was then located on Congress Alley.
In 2022, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer issued an apology on behalf of the city to members of the Black Six and their families, for the harm inflicted upon them.
This marker is dedicated to the Black Six, whose struggle taught us to never give up the battle for dignity and justice.”
Mayor Greg Fischer’s official portrait is unveiled
Created and painted by artist Carlos Gamez de Francisco
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 29, 2022) – Mayor Greg Fischer’s official portrait, created and painted by artist Carlos Gamez de Francisco, is now hanging in the Mayors Gallery at Louisville Metro Hall, 527 W. Jefferson St. It was officially unveiled on Dec. 19, 2022 in an event that included historian and former Metro Councilman Tom Owen’s remarks about the history of mayoral portraits, along with comments by the artist.
The Mayor and Jessica Kincaid, Louisville Metro Government’s Public Art Administrator, said Gamez de Francisco was chosen as portrait artist because of his skill and growing national reputation as a painter in realism style. From the start, Mayor Fischer said, he wanted his portrait to be more than just him looking straight at the viewer or the artist, saying that pose would have been “a missed opportunity of bringing other people, other perspectives, along for posterity.”
Instead, the Mayor is painted in profile in front of the Big Four Bridge, signifying a look and a path to the future – a diverse future, as represented by others in the painting, including women, people of color, immigrants and differently abled residents. That diversity was an intentional acknowledgement of Louisville’s history of having only white men as Mayor – and the promise of change, the Mayor said.
The people in the portrait are set in three arrangements to also represent the three guiding values that Mayor Fischer set out at his first inauguration in 2011: For Louisville to become a city of lifelong learning, a healthier city and a city of even greater compassion. Those core values, the Mayor said, are “captured forever in Carlos’ portrait in the diverse figures of people coming together in the sunlight of opportunity.”
The mayor appears without a tie in the portrait, as a nod to his business background and his reputation as an entrepreneurial mayor. He wears a horseshoe lapel pin that was given to him by his grandfather, Marion Hardesty, which represents family and good luck through a distinctly Louisville horseracing tradition. Mayor Fischer said he loved that Gamez de Francisco also included a butterfly and bee, “symbols of joy and freedom in the city of Muhammad Ali.”
The Mayor said he believes Gamez de Francisco’s experiences as an immigrant helped inform his design. Born in post-revolutionary Cuba to a Cuban-Spanish mother and a Cuban-American father, he arrived in the U.S. with $650 at the age of 21 knowing no English, according to his website, which noted: “He spent $600 on art supplies and $50 on a pair of Cortez running shoes … and committed himself to learn 100 English words every day, studying diligently, working, and painting at night.”
Mayor Fischer has long been a supporter and friend to Gamez de Francisco, now a highly regarded artist whose work has been exhibited at museums and in shows throughout the United States.
“The mayor has supported my career since I came to Louisville from Cuba,” said Gamez de Francisco, recalling the Mayor coming to his exhibits through the years. “And when Mayor Fischer said he wanted me to paint his portrait, I was very honored. I wanted to do my best because I know how important this is for him and his legacy. I tried to pay attention to everything he has done … and there has been a lot!”
Mayor Fischer credited Kincaid, the Public Art Administrator, as being crucial “to this unique process of producing an official portrait … a process that ranged from artist recommendations to iconography to color palettes and so much more.”
“How grateful I am that this portrait, which represents a momentous 12 years in our city’s great and growing life, is really a picture of optimism … a portrait not of me, but of us … “knowing that we can weather big storms, that we can push through adversity together, that we will care for and celebrate each other while we dream big and compete and win at the highest levels,” he said.
Mayor Fischer unveils historic marker in Jefferson Square Park, memorializing the tragic death of Breonna Taylor and ensuing protests for racial justice across the nation
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 28, 2022) – Mayor Greg Fischer today joined family and friends of Breonna Taylor, David “YaYa” McAtee and Tyler Gerth to unveil a new historical marker in Jefferson Square Park that memorializes their tragic deaths and the racial justice protests seen in more than 2,000 U.S. cities in 2020, in response to the death of Taylor, George Floyd in Minneapolis, and others across the country.
The marker, labeled “2020 Racial Justice Protests,” says:
Built in 1978, Jefferson Square Park memorializes first responders killed in the line of duty. In 2020, it became a rallying place for those demanding justice for Breonna Taylor, a Black woman tragically killed by Louisville Metro Police serving a search warrant. Protesters called this space “Injustice Square Park” and held demonstrations that drew global attention.
Over 2,000 U.S. cities saw racial justice protests fueled by the police killings of George Floyd in Minneapolis and others. Locally, these demonstrations prompted police reform and policy changes to improve racial equity in the city. Many here also mourned Louisvillians David McAtee and photographer Tyler Gerth, killed in incidents related to the protests.
Before the unveiling, which was private at the request of the families, Mayor Fischer thanked the Taylor, McAtee and Gerth families for their contributions to move the city forward – even in a time of such great personal loss. “The marker will in no way diminish the tremendous pain that they suffer still,” he said, “but we believed it was critical that we acknowledge the history behind the tragedies of 2020, the resulting demonstrations, and reason for the important reforms and policy changes that resulted and are still underway.”
“I remain deeply, deeply sorry for Breonna’s death and the deaths of YaYa and Tyler, and the incredible pain their families and our entire community experienced in the summer of 2020 and still to this day,” Mayor Fischer said. “My team and I agreed early on that the only way to honor that pain was to find the truth that leads to justice – and to take the necessary steps to ensure this never happens again.”
Breonna Taylor’s mother, Tamika Palmer, said: “I am grateful to stand here today and be a part of history. Thank you to Mayor Fischer for dedicating a historical marker ensuring our babies do not get swept away in history. There is so much work to be done, but actions like the one taken today help further that work.”
Added Vincent James, the city’s former Chief of Community Building: “Today is an important day on our city’s path to heal.”
Beyond immediate reforms, including Breonna’s Law, the Mayor said, the events of 2020 triggered an intensified commitment to addressing structural and systemic racism in our city and our country. “Here in Louisville, we leaned on our shared history and dedication to equity and justice … and because of all that,” he said, “I believe that while the journey to racial equity will never be over, all segments of the community worked together and we came out of that crucible time as a stronger city.”
Louisville Metro Council News
Metro Council accomplishments and review of 2022
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 29, 2022) – As the year comes to a close, the members of the Louisville Metro Council composed a document to commemorate the many legislative accomplishments and funding advancements in 2022.
The city began to see the light at the end of the tunnel after the COVID-19 pandemic as restrictions were lifted throughout the year. Metro Council members resumed in-person meetings and hosting community events.
One of the many duties of the Metro Council is passing the city’s budget. The FY 22-23 budget was approved and went into effect on July 1, 2022. The spending plan included $715 million in General Fund dollars and recognized robust revenue growth with increased emphasis on public safety, infrastructure, and social services. Members also allocated significant amounts of American Rescue Plan funds (ARP) to worthwhile projects and organizations including libraries, youth & child development, public parks, permanent supportive housing, and healthcare initiatives.
“As my tenure as Council President ends, I reflect on all the great work that has been accomplished this past year,” says President David James (D-6). “I’m thankful for my colleagues that continue to work together to make Louisville an even better place to call home. In 2023 I’m looking forward to bridging the divide between the Administration and Metro Council and moving the city in a new direction.”
“The projects funded through ARP funding and our regular budget process will touch every corner of our city,” says Metro Council Majority Caucus Chair Markus Winkler (D-17). “I look forward to seeing positive results from these investments and working with the new administration, my colleagues, and those we represent to make greater strides in 2023.”
“The Metro Council worked as a team to accomplish our primary tasks of allocating needed funds to promote the health and wellbeing of our community, while also exercising our duty to provide accountability for the operation of our government’s many departments,” said Metro Council Minority Caucus Chair Anthony Piagentini (R-19). “I am proud of the investments we have made in safety, roads, libraries and housing and look forward to improving our relationship with our newly elected mayor.”
Overall, 2022 was another productive year for the Louisville Metro Council, and members are committed to continuing to work for the advancement of our city.
Here is a list of some of the many accomplishments for 2022:
American Rescue Plan
Address adverse effects of decades of Redlining
Affordable Housing Allocations
Healthcare Workforce Innovation Coalition - $40 million
Library – expansion of Main branch, expansion of Portland, and two new libraries in Fern Creek and Parkland- $12 million
Mary & Elizabeth Birthing Center
Metro Parks improvements – Iroquois Park, Berrytown Park, Charlie Vettiner Park, Windsor Park, and more
Office of Youth Development - $8.5 million
Permanent Supportive Housing Initiatives
Budget
Road Repaving - $30 million, including first significant investment in alley repaving
Sidewalks - $3 million for sidewalk repairs spread across all Metro Council districts, including $1 million in federal Community Project Funding
Homeless Outreach Programs
Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund
LMPD – increased by $25 million to support higher wages, additional training, and supporting current officers serving our community.
Financial disclosures by Metro Officials and candidates for elected Metro offices
Investigation into Louisville Metro Corrections
Investigating and helping to bring needed change to TARC
Ordinance to better regulate and disclose efforts to lobby Metro Officers, as well as a one year cooling off period prohibiting Metro Officers from lobbying Metro Government after leaving office.
Neighborhoods
Added a Second Chance Business contracting preference for Metro Government
Creation of an online rental registry of rental properties and owner information
Encampment amendments – making it illegal to camp or store personal property in public areas (including sidewalks, Metro Parks, etc.)
Improved truck parking regulations to protect neighborhoods and improve enforcement of current laws
Ordinance recognizing June 19 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day
Ordinance relating to owners of property on which reoccurring crime is negatively impacting surrounding neighborhoods
Public Safety
Discharge of firearms ordinance amendments – misdemeanor to fire a gun within 300 feet of a public road or alley or at a structure within 300 feet of the person firing the weapon.
Installation of the Flock Camera System to help fight crime and support police efforts
Paid leave for Metro Government employees who are victims of crime or domestic violence
Youth
Child Care regulations
Creation of the Lead-Safe Housing Registry to address lead abatement in rental housing units
Public Health and Wellness News
Talk to your kids about fentanyl today
Young people today can get drugs almost anywhere — online, from friends, and on the streets. Because fentanyl is so strong, an overdose can happen within moments of ingestion. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl is one of the deadliest drugs and affects people in all 50 states.
Illegal drugs made with fentanyl alter the perception of pain and trigger the release of endorphins, creating a temporary—yet powerful—feeling of pleasure, leading to a record number of overdose deaths.
Make sure your kids know how common fentanyl is and what to do if they witness an overdose. Dropthefbomb.com is an online resource for parents and others. It provides basic education about fentanyl, ideas for how to talk to your kids, as well as how to use naloxone.
Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. It’s safe, legal, and available as an easy-to-use nasal spray. Administering it right away can save a life. Learn how to use naloxone.
Ringing in the New Year? Vaccines help to celebrate safely
Are you going to a New Year’s Eve party? If you are, make sure you are protected against COVID-19 and the flu. No one has time for these viruses – a new year is here and you have lots to do, look forward to
Both viruses can be serious and can cause severe illness. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
There’s still time to get yours if you haven’t already.
Be sure to visit vaccine.gov to schedule an appointment.
Office of Resilience and Community Services News
City expands financial counseling services for Louisville residents with disabilities
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 19, 2022) - Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) today announced a new collaboration with National Disability Institute (NDI) that provides expanded, free financial counseling opportunities for Louisville residents with disabilities and their families.
RCS was one of two cities nationwide selected by NDI to participate in a new Financial Health Equity (FHE) initiative which focuses on helping people with disabilities manage their budgets, better understand Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, tackle Social Security Administration (SSA) overpayments and transition to work.
As part of this initiative, more than 20 FHE financial counselors, coaches and other service providers in the Louisville area received over 20 hours of specialized training in effective financial counseling for people receiving Social Security disability benefits. In addition to team members with RCS’ Office of Financial Empowerment, FHE financial counselors and coaches will be located at Louisville’s new Financial Empowerment Center launched last July, and Apprisen, a non-profit organization which provides a number of financial services.
According to NDI, the poverty rate for adults with disabilities is more than twice the rate of adults without a disability. Furthermore, people of color with disabilities face double marginalization, discrimination and stigma that lead to poor socioeconomic outcomes. Although only 24 percent of the population living in the Louisville/ Jefferson metropolitan area are Black/African American, Black/ African American residents experience disability at the highest rate (16.2%) compared to White (15.9%), Latinx (6.8%), and Asian (5.9%) counterparts. (Source: US Census Bureau, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates. Tables B18101A, B, D, and I. Retrieved from United States Census Bureau Search).
The FHE initiative aims to reduce the disparity and wealth gap that exists between people with disabilities and, more specifically, people of color with disabilities.
“People with disabilities are often forced to make unique financial decisions to achieve financial stability and independence,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “It is our responsibility to ensure that every resident in our city has equitable access and opportunity to improve their financial health. We’re grateful to National Disability Institute’s new Financial Health Equity initiative for helping to build the capacity and knowledge of our service providers so they are better equipped to serve residents with all types of abilities.”
“People with disabilities face significant barriers to financial stability, including low or unstable income, lack of savings and the extra costs of living with a disability. Financial decisions can often be further complicated by interactions with and dependence on public benefits that require limited income and assets to remain eligible. Financial counseling plays a key role to help individuals with disabilities develop financial strategies to achieve improved financial health. We value the partnership we have built with RCs over these past years and are excited about this new collaboration," said Thomas Foley, Executive Director, National Disability Institute.
About Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services The Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) serves as the social service department of the Louisville Metro Government, and the Community Action Agency for Jefferson County, KY. RCS holds a mission to fight poverty and promote compassion, stability, and the empowerment of residents and communities. RCS provides essential services for Louisville residents, especially for low- and moderate-income populations providing housing, utility assistance, food, advocacy, and financial empowerment services to the city’s most vulnerable residents. The Office of Financial Empowerment is a division of RCS and is the primary driver of all financial empowerment and economic mobility resources for the city. For more information, visit louisvilleky.gov/RCS or follow RCS on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @LouMetroRCS.
About National Disability Institute National Disability Institute (NDI) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to building a better financial future for people with disabilities and their families. The first national organization committed exclusively to championing economic empowerment, financial education, asset development and financial stability for all persons with disabilities, NDI affects change through public education, policy development, training, technical assistance and innovative initiatives. To learn more, visit www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org. Engage with NDI on Facebook: @NationalDisability or follow NDI on Twitter: @NatDisability.
Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods News
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YES! is Looking for Volunteers Who Know How to Get to the Essence
Grants season is gearing into full swing and the YES! division of the Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods needs critically thinking individuals to help evaluate grant applicants.
YES! is Youth Engagement Services and works to transform social and government systems that systematically repress the youth voice and their rights to lives equitably lives. Volunteers will review applications from vendors and services that work to reduce the chances of any Louisville youth becoming a victim of violence and that challenge systematic barriers youth face.
Evaluators will look for particular traits in an applicant’s program, i.e., the program’s impact on youth, if the program fits targeted needs, what are the program’s risks and opportunities, among others. Volunteers should be critical, objective and have an interest in the community and our youth. A knowledge of grant processing is preferred but not required. To apply, contact: Bethany Olson at 502-574-6884 or email at Bethany.Olson@louisvilleky.gov.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Spanish Ambassador Training
For the first time, OSHN will conduct it's One Love Louisville Ambassador Training in Spanish on Saturday January 21, 2023 at Saint Rita Catholic Church at 8709 Preston Highway. This is an opportunity for our Hispanic/Latino communities to help us create a safer Louisville. Training is taught by experts in Stop the Bleed, Conflict Resolution, Mental Health 101, Domestic Violence Awareness, The Public Health Approach to Violence, and Community Organizing. Contact jacob.hazel@louisvilleky.gov for questions. Registration is required, please register below.
COMMUNITY BOARD
Southwick Community Center Tutoring Available
University of Louisville Sports Medicine presents "We Got Next Mentoring" every third Saturday of the month from 10am-1pm at the Southwick Community Center. Kids from third to seventh grade are encouraged to join for FREE.
Tutoring, lunch, sports, and mentorship will be available. Sports include baseball, volleyball, basketball, soccer, art, theater, and more.
There are still several opportunities to help Louisville Parks and Rec with tree plantings before the Spring! Upcoming opportunities include January 7, 16, and 21, 2023. Check the locations, and pick a park near you! No prior experience is necessary, and familys are encouraged to volunteer together.
Click here to sign up to volunteer. Tools and gloves will be provided.
Delta Foundation is now offering Hoops & Homework to youth throughout Louisville Metro. The goal is developing educated leaders through athletics while pairing participants with a tutor.
Every Monday-Thursday from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm youth ages 8-16 can receive homework assistance followed by basketball skills instruction. This is a six week program. Please RSVP at deltainc502@gmail.com
If you are interested in volunteering as a tutor, please contact the above email.
Would You Like to SAVE A LIFE?
Save A Life? is an innovative way of reducing gun violence in communities that bear the brunt of gun violence. Save A Life? offers the following evidence-based prevention trainings free to community partners: Firearm safety skills such as safe storage and gun handling techniques; Suicide prevention with Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR), Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM), and STOP THE BLEED®.
Whitney/Strong hosts several trainings a year. To find out about upcoming events, contact Danea Cloyd at Danea@whitstrong.org
Keep up with what is going on at Newburg Middle School!
For practice, games, clubs, and activities schedules, download Google Calendar to your Android phone or iPhone to access the calendar below (ticket links to be included):
Enroll in the Newburg Boys & Girls Club! Activities include: Homework Help, Games, Art, Cooking, STEM Activities, and free meals & snacks! Located at 5020 Indian Trail.
Follow Newburg Athletics & Activities on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @newburgnation=
District 2 Updates and News
KYTC road work around District 2
U.S. 31E (Bardstown Road): Lane shifts and delays are possible at Southpointe Boulevard for intersection improvements. The intersection is being reconstructed to include dual turn lanes. The work is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2023.
U.S. 31E (Buechel Bypass): Right lane of the bridge closed over the Norfolk Southern Railroad (mile point 10.4). The contractor is on site and working under the bridge where they are not visible to motorists crossing the span. The contractor is still coordinating with the railroad to be able to cross the tracks to finish the repairs. The project is expected to be completed no later than spring 2023.
Metro paving projects & road work
Speed hump projects that have already been paid for by the D-2 office in 2021 that are either completed, waiting for a contractor to be available, or under construction:
Forest Drive- between Forest Drive and Permerland Drive
Glen Valley Road- between Shadow Run Road and Oaknoll Drive
Melda Lane- between Jeanine Drive and Norene Lane
Retreat Road- between Shadow Run Road and Norene Lane
Ridgecrest Road- between Rosette Blvd. and Russet Blvd.
Silverleaf Drive- between Ilex Avenue and Ironwood Road
Petersburg Rd. (One additional hump)
Regal Drive- between Rosette Blvd. and Redondo Circle
Rosette Blvd.- between Jeanine Drive and Reflection Drive
Forest Drive between Forest Drive and E. Indian Trail
Carolyn Way
Speed hump projects that will be paid for by the D-2 office in the future, and will be on the next round of installations once Public Works has completed their investigation and survey of the streets and the funding is in:
Naomi Dr.
Robinwood Rd.
Regent Way
Wooded Way
Glen Valley Rd. (one additional hump)
Plane Tree Dr.
Some ongoing issues and updates
Petersburg Park:
- The dead tree near the tennis courts has been reported, and we have requested that Parks cut it down for safety reasons. Parks has removed all of the branches from this tree already.
- The D-2 office has already paid for new stretch benches, chess sets, pickleball courts, tennis courts, lighting, and a skate park. Some of these improvements have already been completed, while others are still waiting for contractor availablity. Keep an eye out over the next year for these improvements!
Semi Parking in residential areas:
Our office has been attempting to reduce the amount of semi-trucks parking in the neighborhood. It is against the law to park a semi or semi-trailor in a residential area, and LMPD has been made aware of the problems that we have been having recently. LMPD will be ticketing any semi that they see parked on the residential streets and/or in residential parking areas. If you see a semi parking illegally, please call LMPD's non-emergency number at (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-2111 to report the issue.
Have you ever thought about buying a vacant or abandoned property in the city?
The city has many vacant or abandoned lots and buildings for sale at all times. If you’re a contractor or fixer-upper, you might consider buying an abandoned home to rehab. Once you fix it up, you could live in it or sell it for a profit. Or you may want to buy a vacant lot or a property in need of demolition, and build a new home. Other properties are suitable for starting a community garden or other agricultural project.
To manage the sale of vacant or abandoned properties, the city has a program called The Landbank Authority. The program’s goal is to put these properties back into productive use. The Landbank currently has about 500 properties available for sale and some are available for as little as $1. But in order to purchase properties, you must be able to prove to the Landbank that you can pay to refurbish or demolish the property, and you must complete the project within a set deadline. To see what’s available, visit the Landbank website: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/community-development/purchase-vacant-property-landbank. You’ll see two links, one for Lots and one for Structures. Choose Lots to view empty lots for sale and an explanation of the types of programs, including “Adjacent Side Yard”; “Cut It, Keep It”; “New Construction”; and “Agricultural Projects”. Choose Structures to see a list of vacant houses and other buildings for sale. Landbank has two categories for the sale of structures: “Save the Structure” and “Demo for Deed”. To save a structure, you must prove you have funds to rehab it and you must complete renovations within six months for exterior and 18 months for interior renovations. To buy a "Demo for Deed," you must simply prove you have funds to demolish the property.
Both the Lots and Structures pages have links and instructions to apply for purchase when you’re ready. Speaking of funds, that’s where we come in. At LHOME, we can’t help you purchase a property but we can help you renovate one. Qualified property owners can borrow up to $30,000 for 12 months, paying only interest on the loan. After the year is up, you can sell your renovated property or refinance it.
To learn more, please visit lhomeky.org or give us a call at 502-882-8091. One last tip: The city has a great tool called Lojic (lojic.org). Lojic lets you search by address for a specific property you want to know more about. Just type the address in the search bar and you’ll get reports about the property owner, the assessed value, zoning, voting district and more. Happy hunting!
Interested in serving on a board or commission?
Louisville Metro has 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.
The Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue is open. This is a popular disposal site for large loads of unbagged yard waste, tree limbs and stumps up to three feet in diameter, construction debris, and large household items. (Fees may apply.) Residents can dispose of up to four tires, up to three electronic items, and up to three large household items for FREE! Details can be found on the website. Open Tuesday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Solid waste collection services will NOT be affected by Christmas and New Year's Day holidays this year. Residents normally serviced by private waste haulers should check with those companies for holiday collection schedules
Staffed Drop-off Locations The staffed recycling locations, Waste Reduction Center, and Haz Bin will be closed Saturday, December 24 and Saturday, December 31.
East District Public Works Yard, 595 N. Hubbards Lane
Southwest Government Center, 7219 Dixie Highway
Central Government Center, 7201 Outer Loop
Waste Reduction Center, 636 Meriwether Avenue
Haz Bin, Household Hazardous Waste Facility, 7501 Grade Lane
Pop-Up Drop-Off Waste Disposal Events
Pop-Up Drop-Offs are free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County.
All events complete for 2022; please check back in 2023 for additional events!
To report materials that have been illegally dumped or "junk" set out on the wrong day, use Metro311 or 574-5000.
If you WITNESSED A PERSON illegal dumping and have information (pictures, license plate #, etc.), please report it on our new online form.
Keep an eye out for the vehicles our Enforcement Team is currently looking for!
Don't contribute to the problem!
If you hire someone to dispose waste for you,ask to see their Waste Hauler License and do not pay without a disposal receipt. Properly disposing of truck loads of materials costs at least $50 - if you're charged less than that, be suspicious. Perpetrators will often take your money and illegally dump your items to avoid the disposal fee. Drop off up to three household items for free at the Waste Reduction Center. (Disposal fees may apply for additional items.)
Only set out junk or bulky items during your scheduled set out period. Residents in the Urban Services District can sign up for set out reminders using the Recycle Coach app. Residents outside of the Urban Services District should call their contracted waste hauler for information.
Tips to Prevent Illegal Dumping on your Property
Keep your property well lit and clear of overgrown trees and shrubs.
Monitor your property - the presence of illegally dumped materials or bulky items set out too early attracts additional dumping.
Install security cameras - send your video or photos anonymously to us and enforcement officers can use identifying information to catch the perpetrator.
Cover your loads! A lot of litter ends up on the highway because of waste not properly contained in trucks
Remove vehicle debris after an accident. When a wrecked vehicle is removed, the debris must be removed with it.
Report materials that have been illegally dumped or "junk" set out on the wrong day to Metro311 or call 311 or 574-5000.
If you WITNESSED A PERSON illegally dumping and have information (pictures, license plate #, etc.) report it on our online form.
If you hire someone to dispose waste for you, ask to see their Waste Hauler License and do not pay without a disposal receipt. Properly disposing of truckloads of material costs at least $50 - if you're charged less than that, be suspicious. Perpetrators will often take your money and illegally dump items to avoid the disposal fee. Drop off up to three household items for free at the Waste Reduction Center. (Disposal fees apply for additional items.)
Only set out large items during your scheduled set out period. Residents in the Urban Services District can sign up for set out reminders using the Recycle Coach app. Residents outside the Urban Services District should call their contracted waste hauler for information.
Dispose of large items like tires and furniture at Pop-Up Drop-Off events – free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County.
Kroger Wild Winter Days Winter Admission and Food Drive with Dare to Care
The Louisville Zoo is celebrating Kroger Wild Winter Days now through Feb. 28, 2023 with a Dare to Care food drive and discount admission when you donate a food item for the drive.
The Zoo is proud to team up with Kroger and Dare to Care again to help struggling families in our community. Guests who bring at least one canned food item per person may purchase discounted tickets at the Zoo windows for $9.75 per adult and $6.75 per child/senior ticket.
Since this partnership began in 2009, the Zoo has collected nearly 27,000 pounds of food thanks to the generosity of its guests. That’s equivalent to the weight of two African elephants like Mikki!
The discount is available at the gate only and is not valid for online purchases. The offer is not valid for special fee-based programs, for prepaid groups, field trips or with other discounts. No refunds will be provided for tickets prepaid in advanced or purchase online. Multiple cans are appreciated but only one discount per admission; additional cans do not provide additional discounts.
Some of Dare to Care Food Bank’s most needed items are canned meats like tuna and chicken, as well as canned fruit, beans, peanut butter, soup, rice, cereal, fruit juice, pasta and canned vegetables. Please avoid glass containers. More details are available at daretocare.org.
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Fall/winter hours are 10 a.m. ─ 4 p.m. (stay until 5 p.m.). The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Louisville Zoo Announces New “School’s Out Safari” Discount Days
The Louisville Zoo is excited to announce its NEW School’s Out Safari discount to help provide our community with fun, safe and educational experiences at the Zoo this fall and winter.
Guests can receive one free child admission (ages 3 – 11) when they buy one adult general admission ticket. Tickets must be purchased at the admission window on the day of your visit. The offer cannot be redeemed for more than one child admission per single adult admission. This discount cannot be combined with any other offer. Children 2 and under do not require a ticket.
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Zoo hours are 10 a.m. ─ 4 p.m. (enjoy the Zoo until 5 p.m.) The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
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About the Louisville Zoo
Since 2011, under Mayor Fischer’s administration, the Louisville Zoo celebrated its 50th anniversary, opened nine new exhibits and attractions, and won national awards for Glacier Run and School at the Zoo. Considered Kentucky’s most popular not-for-profit paid attraction, the Zoo welcomed nearly 9 million guests in the last decade. In 2021, the Zoo was voted “Best Place to Take Kids in Summer,” by LEO Weekly, “Best Kid-Friendly Attraction” by Kentucky Living Magazine and Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer made the Top 10 Halloween Festivals list by thetravel.com. Community Access Memberships, deep-discount days, the Future Healers Got Zoo Buddies partnership and the accessible playground are among prime efforts to make Louisville Zoo even safer, more engaging, and more inclusive. Among the Louisville Zoo’s most successful conservation programs, the black-footed ferret breeding effort produced 1,100 kits and repatriated more than 800 of these most highly endangered, American mammals to the wild.
The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Head to the Kentucky Exposition Center this weekend to celebrate the New Year with a Kentucky Flea Market New Years Spectacular!
There will be over 1,000 booths with more than 300 antique pavilion booths! Admission is free, parking is $10 per car. Receive $5 cash back for your parking with any purchase made at the flea market!
Show hours are Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. 5 p.m., and Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
NYE Live! will offer partygoers exclusive access to more than 10 restaurants and bars, live entertainment by Wax Factory, NYE-themed party favors, confetti cannons & balloon drop, champagne toasts, and a countdown to midnight complete with the city’s only “Times Square” Ball Drop!
It's New Year's Eve so dress to impress! Business casual to formal attire is encouraged. Please note that Fourth Street Live! does have a code of conduct that all guests need to abide by. All guests must be 21 years of age or older on 12/31/22 to attend.
There are upgrade options available to secure your very own VIP booth or exclusive area for the evening in one of their venues. Space is limited.
Tickets to this event can be purchased here. Use code AROUNDLOU for $10 off Gold and Platinum packages! Code is good until 11:59 p.m. on 12/30/22.
Ring in 2023 at the stroke of noon at the Kentucky Science Center's annual Noon Years celebration!
It’s the perfect New Year party for families who can’t stay up until midnight. Enjoy fun activity stations throughout the building and join in a countdown to welcome the Noon Year.
You're invited to come dance into 2023 with Louisville Silent Disco!
Mile Wide is throwing their first ever New Year's party that will feature special beers on tap, a champagne toast at midnight, NYE party favors and of course, Louisville Silent Disco. The music begins at 9 p.m. and will run until at least 1 a.m., if not later.
Headphones are $15 in advance, or $20 the day of the event.
Louisville Silent Disco plays 3 genres of music simultaneously and you are able to use the headphones to choose the song you prefer. It's the perfect chance to dance with your friends and family and welcome in the New Year!
The Louisville Salsa Underground presents a New Year's Eve Salsa Dance Party to finish off 2022!
Louisville's only New Year's Eve Latin dance social at the Frazier Museum will feature music by DJ Robertón, dinner catered by The Mayan Cafe which includes a Nacho Bar and Mayan Salad, and a champagne toast included with the purchase of a table.
Join The Crashers inside The B.A. Colonial for the Mayor's New Year's Eve Bash! They will be playing all your favorite songs while you enjoy food, drinks, party favors, champagne toast, and much more!
New Year's Eve menu choice of: 1. Pulled Pork w/ Two Sides & Rolls 2. Pulled Chicken w/ Two Sides & Roll 3. Beef Brisket w/ Two Sides & Rolls 4. Cobb Salad w/ Fried or Pulled Chicken Homemade Sides: Broccoli Salad, Green Beans, Mac & Cheese, & Potato Salad All Meats Slow Roasted in House
Tickets are $75 per person and can be purchased here. Tickets includes dinner ordered from the event menu, champagne toast at midnight, cash bar, and Louisville's finest entertainment - The Crashers!
Event starts at 8 p.m. The Crashers will perform from 9:30 to 10:45 p.m. and 11:15 to 12:30 a.m.
Head to C2 Event Venue for a sophisticated New Year's Eve party for professionals and entrepreneurs.
The event will feature special guest DJ's with many ticket options available. To view the different ticket options and to purchase tickets, click here.
Attire is mandatory semi-formal, no jeans, sportswear, t-shirts, ball caps, etc. For more information call (513) 616-0211.
Grab your favorite party dress, a bow tie or vest and Let’s Dance in the New Year!
Hosted at Hotel Louisville, the event will offer a mini buffet of snacks, a champagne toast at midnight, party favors and a fun photo backdrop! A 50/50 raffle will also be available for those who feel lucky!
Tickets will be available at the door and are $25 and include an entire night of dancing and festivities! You can purchase your ticket in advance to guarantee a seat. You can Venmo your money to @Shelby-Freeman-15. If you use Venmo please put the names of the people you are buying tickets for in the “for” line, nothing else. You can also pay in cash or check at any of the upcoming dances or lessons.
A cash bar will be open and ready to pour your favorite drinks! Let’s Dance and get fancy!
Join PG&J's Dog Park Bar for a New Year's Eve PAWty kicking off at noon with the U of L vs. UK basketball game.
From 5 p.m. to close, party with your pup during the NYE PAWty and enjoy a hot dog bar and drink specials. From 5 to 8 p.m. DJ Phantom will be playing music then at 7 p.m. the NYE Balls Drop! There will be 4 nets suspended with 75 balls each. 1 ball in each bag will be specially marked & whoever finds a "Magic Ball" wins a $50 gift card to Feeders Pet Supply & a gift basket from Chewy!
Join retired teacher and amazing House Cat, Ms. Sweeny, for an early Noon Year's Tea Party and kitten cuddles!
Price is $20 per person and all children must be accompanied by a paid adult. Recommended for younger children (all ages welcome). Price includes a noon year's countdown tea party and cat cuddles!
Start your New Year off with a Parkrun through Joe Creason Park! This is Louisville's favorite, free, weekly, timed 5K. No medals, no shirts, no waste. Register once if you've never joined them before and bring a copy (paper or digital) of your barcode.
Run, walk, jog, or volunteer, it's up to you. There's no time limit and nobody finishes last thanks to our volunteer tail walker.
Dog and stroller friendly. Learn more and register here.
1297 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213
Report Street Light Outages to LG&E
If you see a streetlight out in your neighborhood (or anywhere in Louisville), please note the address and report it to LG&E for repair. Click here to fill out the online form to report broken or malfunctioning streetlights. We always recommend adding your contact information to the request, so a technician who has questions can contact you. LG&E makes repairs during the day. Make sure you follow up if the streetlight hasn’t been repaired within seven (7) days.
LMPD News
LMPD reminder: Please secure your property and stay vigilant!
The city has seen an increase of illegal activity, including vandalism, vehicle thefts, items stolen from vehicles, and gun shots reported over the past year. Here are several tips from LMPD that may seem simple but could be very effective in preventing crime in our neighborhoods!
Immediately report any suspicious person, activity (gunshots), or vehicles to (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-TIPS. This is not just for vehicle vandalism but drug activity, home/garage vandalism, gun shots - ANY suspicious activity! Make a police report!
- Never leave anything of value in your vehicle; this includes laptops, purses, GPS devices, and even loose change. - Always lock your vehicle doors. - Remove garage door openers from vehicles usually parked outside. - Do not leave your keys in your vehicle. Do not warm up your vehicles without you in them! - Do not leave the windows of you vehicle open, or partially open. - Consider additional lighting around your property; try to park your vehicle in a well-lit area. - Never leave a firearm unprotected in your vehicle.
Please remember to not leave your vehicle running and unattended!
Metro Emergency Repair Program
Eligibility criteria:
Must be owner occupied for at least one year.
Not available on rental property.
Must meet income guidelines (see intake staff).
May receive assistance once in a five year period.
Louisville-Jefferson County only.
Types of repairs:
Furnace repair or replacement (October-April only).
A/C unit- repair or replacement (Requires medical statement, available May-Sept. only).
Electrical repairs/upgrades.
Water line repairs/replacement.
Sewer line repairs/replacement.
Water heater repair/replacement (gas or electric).
Peace Presbyterian Church (4210 East Indian Trail, Louisville, KY 40213)
Open every 2nd Monday of the month -- 10am - 12pm
Forest Baptist Church (4500 Petersburg Road, Louisville, KY 40218)
Open every 1st Thursday of the month -- 4pm - 6pm
Information about both pantries:
Serving households in the 40213, 40218 & 40219 Zip Codes Only
First Come, First Served Basis
Picture ID & proof of residency required!
LouieConnect
Louisville non-profits have launched a new website to help connect people in need of food, shelter, and more. Metro United Way and the Family Scholar House partnered to create LouieConnect, modeling it on a similar site created in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. When someone uses LouieConnect, the web-based app asks for basic information and then lists applicable resources nearby — from food pantries to shelters to career centers to financial literacy programs.
***Important Metro Services Phone Numbers***
Air Pollution: (502) 574-6000
Animal Services: (502) 363-6609 or (502) 361-1318
Brightside: (502) 574-2613
Community Services & Revitalization: (502) 574-4377
Congressman John Yarmuth: (502) 582-5129
IPL (Code Enforcement): (502) 574-3321
Legal Aid Society: (502) 584-1254
LG&E Business: (502) 627-3313 or (800)- 331-7370
LG&E Residential: (502) 589-1444 or (800) 331-7370
LMPD 6th Division: (502) 574-2187
LMPD Anonymous Tipline: (502) 574-LMPD (5673)
LMPD: (Non Emergency): (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-2111
