District 9 eNews 2-23-23

District 9 Masthead
Andrew Owen

Councilman Andrew Owen
601 W. Jefferson Street
(502) 574-1109
Email Andrew

Jasmine Presley
Legislative Assistant
(502) 574-3908
Email Jasmine


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In this Issue...


Neighborhood Report

seal

I want to take this opportunity to discuss a couple of issues that have occupied a significant amount of my time since I was sworn in.

First, we have experienced a number of violent crimes in our neighborhoods and I have been in frequent contact with LMPD to encourage additional patrols and to receive updates about where each of the investigations stand.  I can’t discuss ongoing investigations, but I do feel good about the progress LMPD is making in each case.

One of the first things I did after taking office, was to schedule a standing, monthly, in-person, meeting with Major Grissom, head of the 5th Division of LMPD.  I did this for two reasons; 1) because I want Major Grissom to know that he has my full support and 2) to make sure Major Grissom and I have a good personal relationship with an excellent line of communication in place.  I want to know what is occurring on the ground in the 9th district, on a daily basis, if need be, and what preventative measures are in place to discourage additional crime.

I also recently met with interim LMPD Chief Villaroel, to discuss the steps we are taking as a city to hire and train more officers and implement proven, effective, crime prevention strategies.  I really enjoyed my time with the chief and was very impressed with her disposition, background and experience.  After our conversation, I do feel like we are making progress, and, once the US Department of Justice report is released with additional recommendations, we will be positioned to both improve accountability within the force and reduce the overall rate of crime and violence in our community.   

The second issue I want to discuss is the Frankfort Avenue restriping plan.  The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) will be resurfacing the entire length of Frankfort Avenue from Mellwood Avenue to Shelbyville Road this spring. KYTC recently released a draft design plan for how the street will be striped after the resurfacing is completed (a link to that draft plan is included HERE).  Over the past few weeks, many of us within and outside of government have been in frequent conversation about KYTC’s design proposal, to try to determine what the best design for Frankfort Avenue looks like going forward.

First, I want to make it clear that these rightsizing efforts are almost entirely driven, for better and for worse, by the goal of improving automobile, and to a lesser extent, pedestrian safety.  At some level, the bike lanes are an afterthought because there is space left over in the roadway once the lanes are narrowed.  I think many people think the bike lanes are the tail that is wagging the dog, and that is simply not true.  In fact, many of the cyclists in D9 and other neighborhoods have reached out directly to our office to say they are not in favor of the bike lanes as currently designed.

I have included a couple of links below for reference.  The first outlines some of the right-sizing projects that have already been implemented in Metro Louisville and the post implementation safety improvements that have resulted.  The second is a link to an NPR article that highlights the incredible success Hoboken, New Jersey has had implementing similar traffic calming practices.

https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/f8f421c060c74cc4906b11d81936043c

https://www.npr.org/2022/08/25/1119110757/traffic-deaths-car-accident-hoboken-new-jersey-vision-zero

Obviously, each street is unique, but in general, reducing accidents and deaths by slowing down cars seems like a worthy endeavor to me. 

Arriving at a design that properly balances improved safety, better connectivity between neighborhoods for as many modes of transportation as possible, and parking needs for our small businesses, is the ultimate goal. I can assure you, that we are working hard to arrive at that delicate balance.  At the end of the day, Frankfort Avenue is a state road, and KYTC has the final say over what the striping plan looks like.  In the meantime, we will continue to advocate for a design that incorporates neighborhood feedback and achieves the goals I mentioned above. 

See below for neighborhood meeting details to discuss the restriping plan. 


Invitation to Frankfort Ave Restriping Plan Meeting

Daniel Brosch of The Hillcrest Tavern is hosting a neighborhood meeting tonight February 23rd at 6pm at 3212 Frankfort Ave to discuss the Frankfort Ave restriping plan.  This meeting is open to the public and for officials to attend and give/hear feedback.


Meet with Andrew

meet with andrew

I am always happy to hear from constituents.  To make meeting with me in person more convenient, I will begin holding office hours at various places around District 9,  starting on Wednesday March 8th, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. I’ll be at St. Joe's Children's Home located at 2823 Frankfort Ave.  Please stop by with any questions or concerns. You can also call anytime at 574-1109 or email at andrew.owen@louisvilleky.gov.

I will also continue D9 Community Conversations.  Stay tuned for more information.


Junk Pick-Up Final Set Out Date

junk

Large Item Pickup by appointment is coming to the Urban Services District. Now you will be able to quickly get rid of up to four large items, once per week, by simply making an appointment. This means more opportunities to dispose of large items, less "junk" sitting out for weeks, and improved neighborhood cleanliness!

The program will be phased in after your last "junk" set out weekend, which is February 24-26th for District 9. Watch this tutorial if you need help. After the crews collect items in your area the following week, your address will be able to use the appointment system. Make an appointment up to once per week for up to 4 large items to be picked up. Households and property owners will receive a letter and info card in the mail. 


Summer Volunteen Program at KY Science Center

science center

The Summer Volunteen Program is back at Kentucky Science Center! This year’s 8-week program runs from June 5th through July 28th, 2023.

The Volunteen Program encourages teens to become engaged with their community by sharing hands-on Do Science opportunities with our guests that uphold the values of Kentucky Science Center.

During your times as a Volunteen, you will create new friendships with members of your cohort, develop professional relationships with Kentucky Science Center staff, become familiar with the day-to-day operations of your assigned department, and be given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives and experiences of our guests.

Learn about program requirements, expectations, and more at the links below. Applications close on Friday, March 31st at 11:59PM.

Website: https://kysciencecenter.org/support/volunteens/

Application: https://bttr.im/xtpdy

Questions? Email ksc.volunteer@louisvilleky.gov.


Call for Artists

art

Louisville Metro Council and Louisville Visual Art (LVA) are now accepting applications for artwork to display in City Hall as part of the fifth annual Art in City Hall exhibition.

The annual program, which will be administered by LVA, invites artists to submit original, two-dimensional works of art through an online application process by Monday, February 27. The submissions will be reviewed by a selection committee comprised of Metro Council and LVA representatives.

Up to five artists will be selected for the exhibition. The chosen artwork will be on display March 2023 through February 2024 in City Hall’s entrance lobby, hallways, and public spaces.

Each artist selected to participate in the exhibition will receive a $500 honorarium.

Specifications

  • All artwork must be original and two-dimensional.
  • Outside dimensions of artwork (including frames) must not be smaller than 24 x 24 in. and must not exceed 60 x 60 in.
  • All artwork must be framed, stretched or mounted to durable material, and ready for hanging with D-ring hangers, wire, or equivalent.
  • Artists are responsible for transportation and delivery of selected artworks to City Hall by designated date and for pick up by a designated date at the conclusion of the exhibition.
  • Artworks submitted for consideration must be available throughout the duration of the exhibition, March – February 2024.

For more information on the process and how to apply, please visit: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council/art-city-hall-2023-2024.

If you have any questions regarding the program, please contact Keith Waits at keith@louisvillevisualart.org or call (502) 584-8166.


Share Your Love

SJ foster care

Being a supportive presence for our St. Joe’s kids is what they need to be successful in every part of their life. Learn about the process of becoming certified as a foster parent or respite provider by attending our informational meetings held the first Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. at St. Joseph Children’s Home (2823 Frankfort Avenue). No commitments are necessary but open hearts and minds are encouraged! The St.Joe’s team provides therapy and ongoing assistance to the families we serve. We also offer extensive training, competitive reimbursements, clothing, school supplies, holiday needs, and crisis support.

RSVP is required for the meetings. Send an email to Lisa Barber-Atwell at info@sjkids.org and put “FC Info Session” in the subject line to hold your spot. For questions or concerns, email info@sjkids.org or call (502) 893-0241. Virtual options are also available. Email us to schedule a time.

If you would like to become certified as a foster parent, you can attend one of our foster care and adoption training sessions listed below. You must attend our informational meeting prior to registering for the session. We also offer Saturday sessions. Contact us at info@sjkids.org to learn more.

SESSION 1: Thursday evenings 6-9 p.m. 1/12/2023 – 3/2/2023

SESSION 2: Tuesday evenings 6-9 p.m.  4/11/2023 – 6/6/2023 (Skip 5/16 session)

SESSION 3: Thursday evenings 6-9 p.m.  6/29/2023 – 8/24/2023 (Skip 8/10/2023 session)

SESSION 4: Tuesday evenings 6-9 p.m.  9/26/2023 – 11/21/2023


Read the Latest Feature on St. Joe’s Stories

sj

Check out SJ Stories, a new monthly blog designed for those considering foster care and adoption. Our curated content also features tips and advice for foster, adoptive, and bio parents. Read our inspiring stories here: https://bit.ly/3xA44xf

Also, if you are a former St. Joe’s kid who has a story to share, contact Tiffany White (Tiffanyw@sjkids.org) for a chance to have your story featured in an upcoming post on SJ Stories.


GLI Power to Prosper MBA Accepting Applications

GLI

Calling all minority- or woman-owned businesses! The third cohort of GLI’s Power to Prosper Minority Business Accelerator is now accepting applications. Learn how to take your business to the next level. Applications are open through February 28, 2023. 

This program is free for participants and open to business owners who:

  • Are minority, woman, LGBTQ+, veteran, or disabled-owned
  • Employ at least one full-time employee, besides the owner(s)
  • Have been in business for at least two years
  • Commit to attend class and complete mandatory assignments and program surveys, as requested

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE.


First Pop-Up Drop-Off of 2023

pop up drop off

The first Pop-Up Drop-Off of 2023 will be Saturday, March 18 at 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Louisville Metro Fleet Services parking lot, 3515 Newburg Road. Be sure to follow the accepted items guidelines and keep your categories separated for easy and fast off-loading!  For more information visit Louisvilleky.gov/PopUps


Get Free Tax Help

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to households that earned $66,000 or less in the previous year. VITA is a financial stability initiative of Louisville Asset Building Coalition which is supported by Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services, Metro United Way and numerous partners and volunteers.

At 11 VITA sites across the community, IRS-certified volunteers provide free, basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing both in-person (by appointment at several sites) or via drop-off services.  See more details and how to schedule an appointment.

free tax help

Café LOUIE 2023 is here!

Café LOUIE is designed to be an informal gathering of civic minded individuals interested in meeting with their elected officials to discuss local issues. When you arrive, grab a cup of Heine Brothers coffee and fill out a notecard with your specific question(s). After a brief introduction of elected officials and special guests, a trained facilitator will direct your questions to officials for comment and discussion.

All Café LOUIE meetings begin at 9:00 a.m.  I will be participating in Café LOUIE again on February 25th at the St.Matthews Library (3940 Grandview Ave).


Public Meetings

You are invited to attend a review of a CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT to allow a short term rental in a dwelling unit that is not the primary residence of the host.
Subject Property: 196 Coral Avenue
Case Number: 22-CUP-0382
Case Manager: Heather Pollock (Heather.Pollock@louisvilleky.gov)
Application Date: December 08, 2022
Meeting Type: Board of Zoning Adjustment
Meeting Date: MONDAY, February 20, 2023
Time: Meeting will begin at 1:00 PM and will continue until all cases are heard
Location:  Learn how to participate online at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/upcoming-public-meetings.  You may also participate in person at the Old Jail Auditorium (514 W Liberty St,
Louisville, KY 40202)

You are invited to attend a review for a REVISED DETAILED DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT PLAN with Revised Binding Elements.
Subject Property: 150 Sears Avenue
Case Number: 23-DDP-0002
Case Manager: Dante St. Germain (dante.st.germain@louisvilleky.gov)
Meeting Type: DEVELOPMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE
Meeting Date: WEDNESDAY, March 1, 2023
Time: Meeting will begin at 1:00 PM and continue until all cases are heard
Location: 514 W Liberty Street, 40202


District 9 Calendar Events

Below are some Ninth District calendar events!  To view a full listing of events, please visit the District 9 Blog at http://district9news.wordpress.com/.  If you would like to submit events to be considered for the blog calendar please email Jasmine Presley or call 574-1109.

Thursday, February 23rdDaniel Brosch of The Hillcrest Tavern is hosting a neighborhood meeting tonight February 23rd at 6pm at 3212 Frankfort Ave to discuss the Frankfort Ave restriping plan.  This meeting is open to the public and for officials to attend and give/hear feedback.

Tuesday, February 28thUnited Crescent Hill Ministries, Senior Live music presents:  The Flute Song trio Fran Weinstock, Lina Barrett and Cassandra Culin will perform an eclectic selection of music:  Classical, religious, folk, jazz and popular tunes.  This event is from 10:15am-11am at 150 State Street.

Saturday, March 4th:  A FREE computer tune-up and repair service is offered the first Saturday of each month (3/4/23, 4/1/23, Do not meet on Derby day). The service will be at the St. Matthews Library on Grandview Ave from 1-5 PM in the small conference room.  If you plan to attend, please contact Rae Taylor at taylor_rae@hotmail.com.

Tuesday, March 7th:  United Crescent Hill Ministries, Senior Speaker series from 10:15am-11:am:  Bob Mueller “15 Ways to Get the Most Out of Life.”  This presentation is motivational and humorous and about fifteen things we can all do for optimal living.  Location: 150 State St

Wednesday, March 8th:  To make meeting with me in person more convenient, I will begin holding office hours at various places around District 9,  starting on Wednesday March 8th, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. I’ll be at St. Joe's Children's Home located at 2823 Frankfort Ave.  Please stop by with any questions or concerns.

Tuesday, March 14th:  United Crescent Hill Ministries, Seniors Live music presents:  the Mellwood Muscians from 10:15am-11am at 150 State St.  This lively Jam band plays pre-bluegrass and old timey music.

Friday, March 17thFamily Fun Nights are evenings of fun for the entire family! Join us at the Mary T. Aquatic Center (201 Reservoir Ave, 40206) on Friday March 17th, April 7th, April 21st, and May 19th from 7-9pm. No registration is required, just show up and have some fun! 


District 9 Links

District 9 Blog: www.district9news.wordpress.com
District 9 Website: http://www.louisvilleky.gov/district9
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/councilmanandrewowen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/councilmanandrewowen


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