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...

• A Message from Andrew
• District 9 Community Cleanups
• District 9 Road & Sidewalk Projects
• Renovations to Crescent Hill Sports Courts
• Stilz Ave Rightsizing
• Free Brunch Meet & Greet at Virtue
• Call for Electric Vehicle Owner
• Chenoweth Elementary Environmental Club
• Mental Health Resources
• Fair Housing Month
• Tree Debris Drop-Off
• April Events Downtown
• Design Guideline Update Discussions
• Family Fun Nights
• Forest Fest Returns to Jefferson Memorial Forest
• Pop-Up Drop-Off
• ABC License
• Public Meetings
• District 9 Calendar Events
• District 9 LINKS

A Message from Andrew

It has been a very difficult time in Louisville, and I want to make it very clear that the issue of guns and gun violence is the public policy issue that most frustrates me and that I least comprehend.  How can we continue to watch in horror as our neighbors are murdered every single day and still not make the commonsense changes to federal and state law that would undoubtedly change the narrative; particularly as it relates to mass shootings?  I can’t tell you how helpless I have felt, being a member of our local legislative body, and having absolutely no say in how we govern ourselves within the context of public safety and guns.  If the combination of consistent polling that shows a vast majority of our citizens want common sense gun laws and the nightmare that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary have not forced lawmakers to change course, then I have no faith that our state legislature or the U.S. Congress are going to provide answers any time soon.  At this point, the only voices I can imagine might move the needle are the voices of our law enforcement agencies, both leadership and the rank and file.  If law enforcement could present a united front and plead with our lawmakers to make the necessary legal changes that would make their jobs easier and certainly safer, I can’t imagine their voices would fall on deaf ears.  All you have to do is watch the video of our LMPD officers running toward the Old National Bank a week ago Monday, with pistols drawn and an assailant firing a military style weapon at them to know that we are asking way too much of our officers and their families. So, what are three simple, common-sense changes that law enforcement could request of our state legislature that would make a real difference and earn significant majority support from the people of Louisville? Make it illegal to transfer or possess military style weapons. Make it illegal to transfer or possess expanded capacity magazines. Make it illegal to transfer or possess armor piercing munitions. The one thing each of these items has in common is that it was manufactured for the battlefield to kill as many people as possible in as short a time as possible.  There is absolutely no place in Louisville for these weapons of war. If we want to improve the odds for our officers and make the broader community imminently safer, then this is a pretty short list of solutions. Every country in the world deals with mental health issues within their population.  Every country in the world deals with community disengagement, disillusionment and anger and has some level of domestic and community violence.  But only the United States has unfathomable gun violence.  The difference, of course, is the legality and availability of guns.  I have begun conversations with my colleagues at Metro Council and LMPD, and pray that, together, we can finally usher in an era of peace within our community.

District 9 Community Cleanups

Thanks to everyone who joined us for our Frankfort Ave Spring Cleanup last Saturday!  It was a beautiful day and a great turnout.  We still have two cleanups left that we've helped organize for April, and we invite you to join us if you are interested in volunteering!  Please see below for more information and how to register:

Earth Day Beargrass Creek River Sweep 
Date:  April 22^nd
Location:  Meet at Ledge Rd at Lexington
Time:  9am - 12pm
Register Here

Champions Park Cleanup
Date:  April 29^th
Location: 2050 River Rd (Champions Park)
Time:  10am – 12pm
Register HERE

District 9 Road & Sidewalk Projects

N Hubbards Lane from Shelbyville Rd to Westport Rd Metro Public Works is widening from two lanes to two lanes with a center turn lane, adding bicycle lanes and sidewalks.  LG&E is presently relocating the gas lines with an anticipated completion this fall.  MPW is finalizing approvals for the railroad crossing with CSX.  Anticipate beginning construction in Spring 2024.

S Hubbards Lane from Kresge Way to Shelbyville Rd MPW is adding bicycle and pedestrian facilities.  MPW is redesigning to eliminate utility relocations, particularly LG&E.  We anticipate construction in 2025.

Cannons Lane from Winchester Rd to Rock Creek Dr MPW is building a sidewalk along the west side.  MPW will be posting bids for construction in May to begin construction in July.

River Rd Widening Project from Zorn Ave to Beargrass Creek MPW is adding bike lanes, sidewalks, shared use path, and a median plus brining the elevation of the roadway up to ~5’ to accommodate access during Ohio River Flood events.  Contracts are currently removing trees for utility relocation and construction is to begin next spring.

Renovations to Crescent Hill Sports Courts

The sports courts at Crescent Hill Park will be undergoing renovations, with demolition of current courts tentatively set to begin next week. Tuesday, April 18, 2023 will be the last date that the current sports courts are open for public use until the renovation projects have been completed. We are looking forward to welcoming the community back to the renovated courts in mid-summer. 

Stilz Ave Rightsizing

Background Information

• Where: Stilz Avenue, between Frankfort Ave (US 60) and Lexington Rd (US 60A)
• What: Reduce pedestrian crossing along Frankfort Ave at Stilz Ave and add a bike lane along part of Stilz Ave
• When: May/June 2023
• Who: Louisville Metro Government
• Why: Rightsize the corridor at the same time as regular maintenance.

Please review both preliminary designs and provide feedback using the links below.

1. Stilz Avenue: Bike Lane East Side

• Limits removal of on-street parking to stretch along the Water Co. property
• Connects to existing bike lane
• Offers a consistent roadway geometry

View Preliminary Design for Stilz Ave: Bike Lane East Side

2. Stilz Avenue: Bike Lane West Side

• Limits removal of on-street parking to stretch along the Water Co. property
• Offers a "climbing lane" for steepest elevation change on Stilz Ave
• Shifts the street centerline to allow for bike lane

View Preliminary Design for Stilz Ave:  Bike Lane West Side

Click Here to Provide Feedback on the Preliminary Designs

The public comment window closes on April 28, 2023.

Free Brunch Meet & Greet at Virtue

The Virtue Staff is inviting residents to a free brunch meet & greet on Saturday, April 29th from 10am-12pm to enjoy conversations and topics.  Located at 1971 Brownsboro Rd, Virtue wants to be a good neighbor and get to know the residents during this meet and greet.

Call for Electric Vehicle Owner

We are looking for an electric vehicle owner in the 9^th District who does not have a driveway or a garage to charge their EV.  We are working with Metro Public Works on a licensing program that will allow residents to legally charge their electric vehicle on the street in front of their residence, and need someone to step forward to be the first to participate in the licensing program and benefit from this newly created program.  If you have questions or are interested please contact our office.

Chenoweth Elementary Environmental Club

Very proud to support these representatives of the Chenoweth Elementary environmental club this morning as they redouble their efforts promoting clean air through their "Idle Free" carpool initiative.

Mental Health Resources

Our community has experienced a traumatic event this month, and whether it effected you directly or indirectly, its OK to not be OK.  Mental health experts recommend one of the best things anyone can do at a time like this is to connect with others and talk about how they’re feeling. Don’t isolate yourself.

Amanda Villaveces, a licensed marriage and family counselor and director of Mental Health Lou, a community wellness hub, recently shared with us some ways you can connect with others and care for yourself at this time:

• Therapy: A trained therapist can help you process your experiences and develop coping skills.
• Support groups: Connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma can provide a sense of community and validation.
• Self-care: Taking care of yourself physically and mentally is crucial in the healing process. Be gentle with yourself and practice self-compassion.
• Education: Learning about trauma and its effects on the brain and body can help you better understand and manage your symptoms.

“Remember, healing from trauma is a journey, and it's OK to take it one step at a time,” Villaveces said. “You deserve to feel safe, supported, and validated.”

Here are additional mental health and wellness resources:

Fair Housing Month

April is Fair Housing Month and the Kentucky Fair Housing Council is hosting and participating in several in-person events to educate about fair housing in Louisville to commemorate the 55^th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act.  Visit the KFHC website to learn more and RSVP to upcoming events.

Tree Debris Drop-Off

Through Saturday, April 22, 2023, Jefferson County residents may drop off tree debris for free at the Waste Reduction Center and Metro Fleet Services.  Contractors and businesses who are hauling debris are invited to use the Waste Reduction Center for the usual fee. Visit Louisvilleky.gov/WRC for details.

• This free drop-off is for tree debris only.
• Residents will be asked to provide address.
• Locations & Hours:

Waste Reduction Center
636 Meriwether Avenue

Metro Fleet Services
3515 Newburg Road

Tuesday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

April Events Downtown

Sports Park Social Every Wednesday and Thursday night from 5:30-8pm, Washington St. is closed for Downtown residents, employees, and guests to enjoy food vendors and local brewer Against the Grain.  Wednesday nights feature open play for pickup games of Pickleball, wiffle ball, and cornhole.  Join us on April 12^th, 13^th, 19^th, 20^th, 26^th, & 27^th.

Food Truck Wednesdays Grab some lunch Downtown from gourmet food on wheels to classic lunch favorites like burgers or tacos; Food truck Wednesday offers something for everyone.  The weekly lunchtime is every Wednesday through October from 11am-2pm starting April 26^th.

Design Guideline Update Discussions

The Landmarks Commission staff are working to update the Standard Design Guidelines, which date to 1997! These guidelines apply to our Preservation Districts and Individual Landmarks. The next meeting will focus on Storefront, Sign, & Roof design guidelines. Please see the attached flyer for more information. Also we have attached the schedule of all upcoming guideline meetings. Join us!

• Discussion Dates.jpg

Family Fun Nights

Family Fun Nights are evenings of fun for the entire family! Join us at the Mary T. Aquatic Center (201 Reservoir Ave, 40206) on Friday, April 21 from 7-9 p.m. for the next date. No registration is required, just show up and have some fun! One adult age 18 or older must accompany children 12 and under. For safety reasons, each adult may chaperone no more than 4 children 12 and under. Friday, April 21 | 7-9 p.m. | Free Swim Friday, May 19 | 7-9 p.m. | Free Swim

Forest Fest Returns to Jefferson Memorial Forest

The 16th annual Forest Fest, happening on May 20, 2023, will feature Lary Keel Experience, The Foreign Landers, Hot Brown Smackdown and Kaintuck. Forest Fest is a fun-filled day of Bluegrass music, arts & crafts, family activities and food trucks. This event is sponsored by Metro Council member Dan Seum Jr. and free to the public. Coolers are allowed and outside alcohol is prohibited. Parking is $15 (cash).  Follow the @Forestfest Facebook page for more information.

Pop-Up Drop-Off

Pop-Up Drop-Off is a free recycling and large item disposal event!  Our next Pop-Up Drop-Off event is Saturday, May 20, 10am-2pm, at Fern Creek Elementary and High Schools. See the whole schedule at Louisvilleky.gov/PopUps.

ABC License

Linked below, please find an Alcoholic Beverage License memo and Courier Journal Legal announcement for a Quota Retail Liquor by the Package, NQ Retail Malt Beverage by the Package, Sampling, and 2 a.m. Extended Hours license(s) being applied for, located at 3786 Lexington Road, Louisville, KY. 40207 (doing business as State Liquor).  The ad ran in The Courier Journal Sunday, April 2, 2023.

• Courier Journal ABC Ad.pdf
• new location or ownership change.pdf

Public Meetings

You are invited to attend a review for a CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT for a private proprietary club (tennis courts) with Variances.

Subject Property: 150 Sears Avenue
Case Number: 23-CUP-0010
Case Manager: Dante St. Germain (dante.st.germain@louisvilleky.gov)

Meeting Type: BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENT
Meeting Date: MONDAY, April 24, 2023
Time: Meeting will begin at 1:00 PM and continue until all cases are heard
Location: 514 W Liberty Street, 40202

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The proposal is for a Change In Zoning from R-7, OR-3, CN and C-1 to R-7 with a District Development Plan and binding elements for a multifamily development with a variance to reduce the required open space.

Subject Property: 4101, 4159, 4163 Westport Rd; 329, 331 and 333 Ridgeway Ave
Case Number: 22-ZONE-0093/23-VARIANCE-0053
Case Manager: Jay Luckett (jay.luckett@louisvilleky.gov)

Meeting Type: LAND DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
Date: THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 2023
Time: Meeting will begin at 1:00 PM and continue until all cases are heard
Location: 514 W. Liberty Street 40202

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You are invited to attend a review of a VARIANCE to exceed the maximum height allowed for a fence in the required street side yard setback.

Subject Property: 1201 Hull Street
Case Number: 23-VARIANCE-0031
Case Manager: Amy Brooks (amy.brooks@louisvilleky.gov) Application Date: March 2, 2023

 Meeting Type: Board of Zoning Adjustment
Meeting Date: MONDAY, May 1 , 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 participate in person at the Old Jail Auditorium (514 W Liberty St, Louisville, KY 40202). If you are unable to participate in-person, please call 574-6230 or use the link above to learn about other ways to participate or provide comments.

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You are invited to attend a review of a CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT to allow a community service facility in the R-7 Multi-Family zoning district.

Subject Property: 1815 Arlington Avenue
Case Number: 22-CUP-0376
Case Manager: Heather Pollock (Heather.Pollock@louisvilleky.gov)
Application Date: December 02, 2022

Meeting Type: Board of Zoning Adjustment
Meeting Date: MONDAY, MAY 01, 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). If you are unable to participate online or in-person, please call 574-6230 or use the link above to learn how to connect to the meeting by telephone.

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.

Wednesday, April 26^th:  On April 26 an event titled “REAL Good News” will hold its 10th in a series of quarterly public Zoom meetings aimed at making sure Louisville implements its green energy goals. In 2020 the Metro Council passed a resolution to move the city’s operations to 100% clean renewable electricity by 2030. That resolution also sets a goal of 100% clean energy for the entire Louisville community by 2040.  April’s event will feature a discussion by an expert panel on how other cities have transitioned to solar and how Louisville can follow their example.  Speakers will include Steve Ricketts, chair of the Kentucky Solar Energy Society and owner of Generation Solar; Ryan Van Velzer, Energy and Environmental Reporter at Louisville Public Media; and Andrew Owen, newly-elected Metro Council Representative for District 9.  Here’s the url for the Zoom link to register: https://tinyurl.com/3xzya46s

Thursday, April 27^th:  Join United Crescent Hill Ministries for their Senior Program Music Series featuring Rick Edward, singer/guitarist, playing 60s folk music.  Drop in’s welcome, no reservations for live music required.  Call Monique 893-0346 ext 103 for more information on future events and if you are willing to volunteer by sharing your musical talents.

Saturday, April 29^th:  Come by for the Clifton Heights Annual Yard Sale on April 29^th from 7-11 am at the Mellwood Art Center lower parking lot.  The fee is $10 for a 10X10’ space, bring your own table or blanket.  Register by April 22 contacting  Alison Johnson at cliftonheightscc.lou@gmail.com. 

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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