Fat and grease left over from routine pan frying can be disposed of with other residential garbage if handled properly. Just pour the grease into a container that has a lid, let it cool, and place it in the trash. That keeps it out of local waterways and sewers.

Louisville’s three staffed recycling centers accept household cooking oil left over from deep frying. It’s free and easy for residents of Louisville and Jefferson County. Residents should first let the oil cool, then strain out food particles and pour the oil into a container that has a lid. Take it to the nearest full-service recycling center and hand it to a staff member. The oil is recycled for use in biodiesel fuel. To find a drop-off location near you, go to Louisvilleky.gov/RecycleMap. 

Medicare open enrollment is available until December 7

Tips can help older adults protect themselves against scams

Medicare loses between $60 billion and $90 billion per year due to fraud. The mission of Kentucky Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is to empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report health care fraud, errors, and abuse. Fraud prevention is key. All that a scammer or fraudster needs to commit fraud is your Medicare number and date of birth. Keep in mind: Avoid answering your phone, if you don’t recognize the number, as scammers are highly skilled at making themselves seem legitimate. Any legitimate medical provider or professional will leave a message you can return. Our biggest line of defense against Medicare fraud is to read all billing statements (Medicare Summary Notices or Explanation of Benefits). Ensure that all information is correct and matches your personal records of services received during that time. If you are unsure about anything Medicare related or have any questions, don’t hesitate to call the KY SMP toll free at 1-877-603-6558. Open Enrollment for Medicare is open through December 7. Older adults are especially vulnerable of fraud and scams during this period. Many adults will receive mail, phone calls, emails, and TV advertisements about a variety of plans and coverage options. Insurance agents are not permitted to call you without your permission; however, they are allowed to send you emails and mail with an opt-out option. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is tightening up marketing guidelines to decrease unwanted calls. Beware of scam callers who impersonate insurance agents. Seek a trusted representative to guide you through the enrollment process. KY SMP provides a toll-free number (877-603-6558) to answer questions regarding suspected Medicare fraud and/or scams. If your Medicare number is compromised or you find services on your billing statement you didn’t receive, please call us for support and guidance. For more information, please visit Senior Medicare Patrol and National SMP.

With deadline approaching, thousands more wreaths needed to place on veterans’ graves at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery for the holidays

The good news is nearly 4,500 wreaths have been purchased to be placed on veterans’ graves at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery this year. The bad news is that nearly 7,000 more are needed. And the deadline to sponsor a wreath is only one week away.

November 28 is the final day wreaths can be purchased to ensure they are created, shipped and placed on graves during a December 16th ceremony. Since there are more than 11,300 graves at Zachary Taylor, the campaign is only at 40 percent of its goal.

“While we are extremely grateful that so many people have already supported this cause, it is always painful to see graves that will not receive a wreath,” said Dr. Scott Giltner, location coordinator, Gov. Isaac Shelby Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution. “The wreaths are not to ‘decorate’ the graves of our veterans. We place them to remember not their deaths, but their lives. Each wreath is a gift of appreciation from a grateful America.”

“With community support, we can still reach that lofty goal of 11,300 wreaths, added Doug Carroll, owner of Brownsboro Hardware & Paint and one of the businesses involved in the program. “I challenge every business, every club and organization and every church to adopt this campaign as a mission.”

A wreath can be sponsored for $17, either online at LouKYWreaths.org or in person at either Brownsboro Hardware & Paint location.

The live Maine Balsam Wreaths will be placed during an official ceremony at Zachary Taylor on Saturday, December 16 at noon. The public is invited to attend and participate.

Wreaths Across America is a national organization which started in 2007. Its mission: Remember the fallen. Honor those that serve. And Teach the next generation about the value of freedom. The organization placed more than 2.5 million wreaths at more than 4,000 locations in 2022. For more information on the organization, visit LouKYWreaths.org

For more information, contact Scott Giltner, Location Coordinator, at 502-649-4534, Susan Kalmey, Co-location Coordinator at 502-523-1846, or Doug Carroll, Owner, Brownsboro Hardware & Paint, at 758-1555.

Kentuckians advised to avoid visiting County Clerk offices for motor vehicle services in early January during statewide migration to improved system 

Online vehicle registration will be unavailable starting Dec. 28; car owners due to renew registrations this year are encouraged to do so early

A major step forward in modernizing the state’s vehicle information database is approaching as transportation officials migrate to a new, customer-centric system. All County Clerk offices will temporarily pause in-person and online motor and vessel-related services in early January to accommodate the transition. The suspension of services starts January 1, lasts between four to 10 business days and may cause longer wait times when services resume in January. 

The following services will be unavailable during the migration: vehicle and boat registration renewals, vehicle and boat titling and transfers, disabled parking permit issuance and license plate issuance. Vehicle owners due to renew in December are encouraged to do so early before holiday closures.  

Administered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), the state’s 40-year-old legacy system AVIS (Automated Vehicle Information System) will sunset this year, and the seventh and final module of the new KAVIS (Kentucky Automated Vehicle Information System) will be fully integrated by early January. The system upgrade is a part of KYTC’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiencies within the Department of Vehicle Regulation, the Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing and County Clerks’ offices throughout the state. 

A statewide break of services is necessary to allow for an optimal transfer of more than 350 million records. The move to KAVIS will not impact driver license issuance at Driver Licensing Regional Offices. 

Online vehicle registration renewal will be unavailable starting December 28. Online renewal will be restored the week of January 8. Visit drive.ky.gov for updates.

County Clerk Offices - Motor vehicle and vessel-related services will be unavailable as early as Friday, December 29. All offices will pause services starting January 1, and gradually resume services the week of January 8.

The project to migrate to KAVIS kicked off in 2015. Since then, six module releases have been implemented, including a standardized point of sale system, disabled placard improvements, print on demand decals and new flat license plates. 

Join Louisville Metro Council's Holiday Food Drive! 

Please take holiday food donations to the Jim King MUSCL Senior Wellness Center at 1016 East Burnett Avenue, Monday, Wednesday and Friday between November 20 and December 11. We appreciate Karen Schroan, center director, for her help with this and continued service to the senior community.

Winter Break Camp at Cyril Allgeier Community Center

Cyril Allgeier Community Center is hosting a winter break camp focusing more on athletics and offering at least one extra field trip. Sign up today at bestparksever.com!

Pickleball Leagues at Cyril Allgeier Community Center forming now

Register now for the upcoming Winter Pickleball Leagues at Cyril Allgeier Community Center! Leagues are 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. All leagues run for six weeks. Registration is required per session. Scan the code above to register. 

Parks Youth Basketball Leagues are forming now 

You can now sign your kids up for Youth Basketball Leagues from now until December 17! The league runs from January to March, and is designed for children ages 5-14.

Register now for Louisville Parks and Rec's Free Kids Winter Camp!

December 2 - next JCPS School Choice Outreach Event

The next JCPS School Choice Outreach Event is Saturday, December 2 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Goodwill Opportunity Center at 6201 Preston Highway.  

It’s time to apply for the upcoming school year. If you need in-person assistance, the Office of School Choice is hosting several outreach events to help you learn about your options and how to apply. The application period is open now through December 22. Apply online! Questions? Call the Office of School Choice at 485-6250. 

JCPS application period is now open through December 22

Students who will be five on or before August 1, 2024, current fifth or eighth grade students living in the choice zone, and students interested in a magnet school or program may apply now through December 22. Scan the code above to apply. 

Please support The Kid Connection Family Resource Center by donating food and gifts for the holidays

The Kid Connection Family Resource Center Winter Fest Resource is collecting the items listed in the link below by Friday, December 8. 

See a complete list of needs for the food drive and Winter Fest. 

Please bring donations to Camp Taylor Elementary School, 1446 Belmar Drive. 

Fall leaf drop-off available now through December 9

Mowing over leaves to mulch them back into your lawn is a great option for reducing waste. Mulching not only returns vital nutrients to the soil, but experts say that it can help your grass grow even better the following year! Never blow leaves into the street! If you see Street Sweeping signs posted on your street, please make sure to move your vehicle so any leaves that fell naturally on the street can be properly cleaned.  Leaf Drop-Off Sites The Metro Public Works free leaf drop-off sites will be open Tuesday through Saturday, now through December 9. Drop-off will not be available on November 23 and 24 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Only leaves will be accepted. Leaves can be loose, in paper/compostable bags, or reusable containers. Containers used to bring leaves to the drop-off sites must be taken back by residents. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Public Works Yard, 10500 Lower River Road (enter from Bethany Lane) Public Works East District Operations Center, 595 N Hubbards Lane Shawnee Park, 230 Southwestern Parkway (Athletic Complex) The Waste Reduction Center, 636 Meriwether Avenue, is open Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Louisville Metro Animal Services waiving redemption fees through the end of December

Louisville Metro Animal Services (LMAS) is waiving reclamation fees for owned pets through the end of the year. LMAS seeks to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder the reunification of beloved companions with their families. Redemption fees will only be waived for pet owners with no previous violations, and cover microchipping, licensing, and vaccination fees. Court fees will not be waived. Redemption fees are set by the Louisville Animal Ordinance. Local animal laws also require pets to be licensed, microchipped, and spayed or neutered before leaving the shelter.  Pet owners may visit the shelter, at 3528 Newburg Road, Monday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m., to reclaim their companion animals. The shelter's dedicated staff members will be available to guide owners through the reclamation process, providing support and assistance every step of the way.

Monthly Food Pantry at St Agnes Parish in partnership with Dare to Care

The monthly Food Pantry at St. Agnes Parish, in partnership with Dare to Care, distributes food to approximately 150 guest families the fourth Saturday of each month. The pantry operates from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and is open to all Louisville residents. Guests are served via a drive-through format.

District 10 events

Louisville Zoo Wild Winter Days - discounted admission and food drive for Dare to Care Food Bank

The Louisville Zoo is celebrating Wild Winter Days presented by Kroger now through February 29. Wild Winter Days offers Zoo guests discounted Zoo admission and incorporates a food drive for Dare to Care Food Bank.

Guests who bring at least one non-perishable food item per person may purchase discounted tickets at the Zoo ticket windows for $10 per adult and $7 per child/senior ticket. Twenty-five cents of every admission will also support conservation efforts of the Louisville Zoo.

Since this partnership began in 2009, the Zoo has collected nearly 30,000 pounds of food thanks to the generosity of its guests. That is the weight of nearly five male rhinoceros!

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 canned good items per person are appreciated, but only one discount is per ticket sold.

Some of Dare to Care Food Bank’s most needed items include 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 on items of need are available at daretocare.org.

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Fall/winter hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (stay until 5 p.m.). The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

 December 5 to 10 - USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships return to Joe Creason Park

The Louisville Sports Commission welcomes the USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships back to Joe Creason Park December 5 to 10. With more than 1,500 competitors expected to attend, this year’s event features 36 championship races where Juniors, Collegiate, Masters and Elites will be crowned.

The Sports Commission is looking for volunteers to help make the event a success. As a volunteer, you will be in the heart of the action. So, whether you have a passion for cycling or just enjoy being a volunteer, your time, energy and support are invaluable to our ability to provide our participants with a safe, organized and fun experience.

To register to volunteer, click here: https://bit.ly/3Qui5pg. For more information, contact Corbin Maynard at cmaynard@louisvillesports.org. 

The main entrance into Joe Creason Park, across from the Louisville Zoo off Trevilian Way, will remain closed through mid-December.

The park is still accessible via Illinois Avenue on the west side of the park near the Louisville Nature Center and Sheridan Avenue running behind the Louisville Tennis Center.

There is an additional entrance to the park off Trevilian Way that leads to a concrete pad that can also be utilized for parking adjacent to the Olmsted Parks Conservancy building.

The Cyclocross National Championships run from Dec. 5 to 10 and overall access to the park will be limited during that week. The public can attend and watch the racing, however. For more information, click here. 

Louisville Nature Center

Holly & Ivy Saturday, December 9 9 to 10:30 a.m.  10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. 12:30 to 2 p.m.  Make this holiday event a tradition with your family and friends. Enjoy hot chocolate and snacks while making your own wreath, swags and table decorations from live greenery. Ribbons, gloves, and wire cutters are also provided, but you are welcome to bring your own tools. Wreaths: $35/non-members, $25/members Swags/table decoration: $25/non-members, $15/members If all sessions are sold out, please contact us to be put on the waitlist. If we receive enough interest, we might be able to open a fourth session (2:15 to 3:45 p.m.) Need a fun activity for a small group of friends or a business outing? Contact us for details about scheduling a private session on Thursday, December 7 or Friday, December 8. Groups must have at least 8 participants

Searching for a space to gather with your friends and family this holiday season?  Consider renting the event space at LNC! Our Welcome Center is located in the heart of Louisville, making it an ideal meeting point. With large windows and a floor-to-ceiling mural, our event space has an open and airy atmosphere. Complete with ample counter space, the event space can comfortably accommodate 60 guests seated. Inquire about a rental date.

Free 5K run/walk every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Joe Creason Park

The Joe Creason parkrun is a free 5K that meets every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Joe Creason Park. Come join your friends and neighbors - parkrun is family and dog friendly and you can walk, jog or run or volunteer. More information can be found at parkrun.us/joecreason. They're also on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Louisville Metro news

Louisville Opioid Distribution Settlement Advisory Board announces a request for applications by November 27

$5.3 million available for prevention, treatment and recovery

The Louisville Opioid Settlement Distribution Advisory Board released a Request for Applications (RFA) for the second round of grants from opioid settlement funds. Organizations serving Louisville and Jefferson County residents are invited to apply, particularly organizations providing:  

• Prevention strategies and services, including primary youth prevention.  
• Treatment and long-term recovery support.
• Housing and comprehensive wrap-around services for people experiencing homelessness to support them in treatment and recovery.

Funds will be awarded to applicants who submit competitive proposals that align with the approved uses for the settlement and the Principle for the Use of Funds from the Opioid Litigation published by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. 

The deadline for submitting applications is 3 p.m. on November 27. The RFA can be found at the Louisville Office of Management and Budget procurement portal. 

The Advisory Board will review and score proposals and anticipates making recommendations for approval to the Mayor and Metro Council in December. 

LIHEAP Fall Subsidy enrollment is open One-time home heating assistance available to low-income households Kentucky households can apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Fall Subsidy. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis through December 15, or until designated funds have been expended.  LIHEAP Fall Subsidy provides households with a one-time benefit, ranging from $34 to $274, depending on housing category, fuel type used for heating, and income level. Benefits can be applied towards home heating costs for electric, natural gas, propane, coal, wood, or fuel oil. Benefits are paid directly to the household's fuel vendor. Prior LIHEAP assistance does not impact a household’s eligibility. Households must meet eligibility requirements, including income eligibility of up to and including 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. In Jefferson County, LIHEAP Fall Subsidy is available through the Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services. Appointments are required in advance to apply. Eligible households can apply for one or both LIHEAP Subsidy and MSD’s EWRAP with one single appointment.  MSD’s Emergency Wastewater Rate Assistance Program (EWRAP) Through our partnership with Louisville MSD, eligible residents will have the opportunity to apply for MSD’s Emergency Wastewater Rate Assistance Program (EWRAP). EWRAP can provide eligible residents in Jefferson County a 30 percent discount on wastewater charges and the consent decree surcharge. Eligibility includes households at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, with proof of an active utility account with the Louisville Water Company and MSD. This enrollment period is for new and renewing MSD discount program clients. MSD clients who are 65 years of age or older with a gross household income of $35,000 or less per year may be eligible for MSD’s Senior Citizen Discount Program. It is recommended you submit your MSD bill with your LIHEAP documentation to see if you qualify for a MSD discount program. For more details about the MSD Discount Programs, visit https://louisvillemsd.org/paymybill. Please note residents who applied for LIHEAP Fall Subsidy in October during the early registration phase for elderly and disabled citizens, do not need to reapply during the regular LIHEAP Fall Subsidy phase. How to Apply Our toll-free automated appointment system is now available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week to schedule an in-person appointment at one of seven locations. The automated scheduler will provide details about these locations as well as eligibility and required documentation. Jefferson County residents meeting eligibility can call the automated scheduler at 991-8391 or visit online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com Eligibility Jefferson County households within 150 percent of 2023-24 federal poverty guidelines Must be responsible for home heating costs or pay heating costs if utilities are included as an undesignated portion of rent. LIHEAP Subsidy is a one-time benefit. You do not need to have a past-due balance or disconnect notice to be eligible. Documentation Proof of all household income for the preceding month (Food Stamp award letter, Social Security Award letter, pay stubs, etc. or proof of $0 income). Note: Zero Income forms are available at the Resilience and Community Services office at 701 W. Ormsby Ave., Suite 201 as well as the seven LIHEAP locations listed here.  Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household. Most current heating bill; or statement from your landlord if heating expenses are included in your rent; or statement from your utility company if you participate in a pre-pay electric program. Please bring the account number and name on the account for all heating fuel sources and electricity.  For MSD’s EWRAP program, you will need proof of an active utility account with Louisville Water Company and MSD. (i.e. named customers with MSD, receiving metered water service for a property used solely for residential purposes, and owned or leased by the customer as principal residence). For more information about this process on how to apply for LIHEAP or the MSD discount programs, please contact Metro311 by simply dialing 311 or 574-5000, email metro.call@louisvilleky.gov, visit the website’s Online Customer Service or Live Chat at www.louisvilleky.gov/metrocall, or download the free Mobile 311 app from the website. Kentucky’s Community Action Agencies operate LIHEAP in partnership with Community Action Kentucky and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information about LIHEAP, including contact information for all local Community Action agencies, please visit the Community Action Kentucky website at www.CAPKY.org.

Light Up Louisville date moved to Saturday, December 2; sign up is open for Light Up Louisville Parade entries

Light Up Louisville has moved from the Friday after Thanksgiving to Saturday, December 2, the Saturday the week after Thanksgiving.  The event will include the Lots of Lights Parade, Vendor Village, Children's Wonderland Workshop and free photos with Santa.  Join the parade Sign up is now open for participation in the Lots of Lights Parade. People can sign up as individuals or as a group.

Tips for requesting Large Item Pickup online

For best results: Type your address when making a Large Item Pickup appointment. Using the map pin to find your address can be difficult.  Choose from the dropdown if your item is listed. Only use "Other" if necessary. Set out items the day before your appointment in the same location as garbage collection - and make sure the items are visible.  Check your "junk" email if you don't receive an automatic email after scheduling your appointment.

LMPD Public Review of Policy From the Louisville Metro Police Department: The LMPD is committed to engaging the public when revising our policies. The LMPD seeks feedback from the public. Below is the process the Department has implemented to ensure a deliberate and thoughtful process when revising policies. Process Policies that have been revised each quarter will be posted for review and public comment. Changes that have been made to the previous policy will be highlighted. Comments will be reviewed and considered by appropriate personnel and leadership during the next policy review process. Policy/Standard Operating Procedure updates:  General Order #23-005 August 2023 SOP Updates Links to updates and online comment forms:  https://www.louisville-police.org/882/LMPD-Public-Review-of-Policy

Green Resources for Residents guidebook 

The Office of Sustainability is excited to launch the Green Resources for Residents guidebook, a one-stop resource to help individuals and families save costs while going green! Residents can learn about financial incentives available through the Inflation Reduction Act, Louisville Metro Government, Louisville Gas and Electric, and more. Access the full document.

Louisville Parks and Recreation’s Urban Forestry division offering free  ‘Mulch Mondays’ 

Louisville Parks and Recreation’s Urban Forestry division's ‘Mulch Mondays':  Any Jefferson County resident or nonprofit organization will be able to pick up natural, dye-free mulch at no cost between 1 and 3 p.m. every Monday in the parking lot directly behind 9200 Whipps Mill Road. Those interested in picking up free mulch are required to bring their own container for transport. Participants will be required to fill out a waiver before receiving mulch.

Updated OADC Resource Guide available online

The Office for Aging and Disabled Citizens' newest edition of the OADC Resource Guide is available now. The updated resources guide connects aging and disabled citizens, along with their caregivers, to a variety of service providers, government agencies and non-profit organizations in the city of Louisville. View or print the updated resource guide.

Park Duvalle Community Health Centers again offering seasonal flu vaccines at no cost to uninsured people

Each year Park DuValle Community Health Center organizes a mass vaccination initiative to protect the Louisville metro from influenza, hosting walk-in flu clinics and providing thousands of flu vaccines at no cost. This fall, PDCHC is adjusting flu clinics operations to increase capacity flow by serving the community at all PDCHC locations, including at Newburg at 3828 Bardstown Road. The full schedule is available online at pdchc.org today. Walk-ins are welcome, but PDCHC urge the community to register in advance on their website's patient portal.

As student loan repayments resume, the Louisville Financial Empowerment Center offers options for borrowers

As student loan borrowers see their payments resume this month after a three-year pause, the Louisville Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) can help manage the burden.  The COVID-19 student loan forbearance (pause) is ending this month but there are options for borrowers to manage their repayments, including payment plans that are based on income and household size.  If you have an outstanding student loan, you can check its status – and see how much you owe – at www.studentaid.gov.  After checking the website, Louisville student loan borrowers can make a free, one-on-one appointment with the Financial Empowerment Center by accessing its online appointment portal or by calling 585-4622, ext. 6. Read the informative Resilience Report newsletter here,

Assistance

Kentucky's New Employee Child Care Assistance Partner Program

Kentucky has launched an innovative new program to assist working families with the cost of child care and help employers attract and retain talent. The Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership (ECCAP) helps employers meaningfully contribute financial assistance directly to employee child care costs by matching their contribution up to 100 percent, potentially doubling the value of their employer-provided benefit. All funds from the employer and the state are paid directly to eligible child care providers. Various program restrictions apply. To learn more, view the Kentucky Chamber's ECCAP resource page, visit Kentucky's ECCAP program page, or by email.

Help with prescription medication copays may be possible through the Kentucky Prescription Assistance Program. Call 1-800-633-8100, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The Louisville Metro Down Payment Assistance Program provides low- to moderate-income homebuyers with down payment and closing cost assistance for purchasing a home in the Louisville Metro area.

The Team Kentucky Homeowner Assistance Fund is a program that can help homeowners impacted by the pandemic rebound and avoid foreclosure. Qualifying homeowners can apply for up to $46,350 in assistance to help with delinquent mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowner’s and/or flood insurance, homeowners association fees and utility costs. 

If you're 65 years old, own and occupy your primary residence, you may qualify to exempt the first $39,300 of your home value from property taxes through the The Homestead Exemption. Vets with service connected disabilities and totally/permanently disabled civilians may also qualify.

Locate Dare to Care food assistance locations, which include St. Stephen Martyr at 3015 Greenup Road, from 3:45 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays. Please call before visiting sites to verify hours of operation. 

Meals on Wheels is available to qualified seniors in Jefferson County, 60 years or older, who are homebound with no one available to help prepare meals. Call 574-6325 to begin the qualification process. For information on the senior congregate sites for more active seniors, 60 and older, call the number above or sign up at the RCS page. Sites require a one-day advance reservation. See the updated list of open congregate sites.  The Senior Nutrition Program seeks volunteers all year long to help in a variety of capacities. For more information, call 574-6420.

It's okay to not be okay - help is available so connect 

When traumatic events happen, whether they affect you directly or indirectly, it’s OK to not be OK. Mental health experts recommend connecting with others and talking about how you're feeling. Don’t isolate yourself. Dial 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Text “LOU” to 741741 Crisis Text Line Community Wellness Hub Mental Health Lou 502-414-4380 The Black Counseling & Consulting Collective 502-589-4313 Seven Counties 24/7 Adult Crisis Line 502-589-8070 Seven Counties 24/7 Child Crisis Line 502-583-3951 Seven Counties 24/7 Addiction Help Line 502-792-7011 Collective Care Center at Spalding University 502-588-2008 NAMI Louisville 1-800-273-8255 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-888-843-4564 LGBT National Help Center

Trauma-trained mental health specialists are now available at all eight Louisville Neighborhood Place locations for immediate and free assistance for any Louisville resident dealing with violence or other trauma. Appointments and walk-ins are accepted.

The city has also set up a trauma hotline that is free to call: 901-0100.

LMPD - which numbers to call for emergencies, non-emergencies, and ongoing criminal activity complaints

The most efficient manner to report crime and/or request to speak to an officer is to call Metrosafe Dispatch at 574-2111 (5) Furthermore, if the efforts of the officer were not reasonably adequate to address the concern or issue, a citizen can immediately call Metrosafe back and request for an LMPD supervisor to contact them.  For non-emergencies, dial 574-2111 (5)  for non-violent crimes, non-injury auto accidents, or to report a crime that has already occurred.  For emergencies, dial 911 for violent crime in progress, serious injury auto accidents, or immediate threat to human life.  To report ongoing criminal activity, dial 574-5673, the LMPD Tip Line, for drug dealing, prostitution, gang activity, or any information that may help close open investigations.

Louisville Metro events

Nutcracker Family Storytimes with Louisville Ballet return to the Library this month!

Louisville Ballet and the Louisville Free Public Library are excited to announce the return of Nutcracker Family Storytimes to seven library locations in November.

Children of all ages and their families are invited to join Louisville Ballet dancers for readings of the classic holiday story The Nutcracker, followed by Nutcracker-inspired dancing and crafts. In addition, every family at each storytime can enter for a chance to win four tickets to see Louisville Ballet’s upcoming production of The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Join us for one of these Nutcracker Family Storytimes:

• Monday, November 27, 6:30 p.m. – Southwest Regional Library
• Wednesday, November 29, 6:30 p.m. - Northeast Regional Library

Nutcracker Family Storytimes are free for children and families. For more information, visit LFPL.org/Nutcracker, or call the Main Library Children’s Department at 574-1620.

December 2 - Louisville Urban Forestry Neighborhood Tree Planting

Tree planting season continues, and Louisville Urban Forestry has several opportunities for the community to get involved with efforts to plant new trees and maintain ones already planted. No experience is needed for Urban Forestry events, and all tools are provided. The big highlight of this year’s tree planting season is that Louisville Urban Forestry will host five large-scale community plantings. These plantings bring businesses, organizations and individuals together as volunteers to plant hundreds of trees at once in a particular area. This includes one community wide planting day in partnership with TreesLouisville, two neighborhood tree plantings, the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Planting and TreeFest. Throughout Tree Planting season, Louisville Urban Forestry will also be hosting Community Forester Trainings, which offer in-depth information on the best practices for planting trees. This also gives the public an opportunity to become a Community Forester and lead tree plantings. Sign up here.  December 2, Neighborhood Tree Planting, noon to 3 p.m., 1107 S. 17th Street December 13, Pruning and Pints, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Noble Funk Brewery January 15, MLK Day Tree Planting, noon to 3 p.m., Victory Park February 7, Pruning and Pints, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Granville Pub February 21, Pruning and Pints, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Old Louisville Tavern March 2, Community Forester Training, 9 a.m. to noon, 9300 Whipps Mill Road March 16, TreeFest, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Petersburg Park

Louisville to host first NCAA Division I Men's College Cup December 8 and 11 - tickets are available now

The NCAA Division I Men’s College Cup is headed to Louisville for the first time in the 65-year history of the men’s soccer tournament! Watch the top four men’s collegiate soccer teams descend on Lynn Family Stadium December 8 & 11 in hopes to be the next national champion. Visit www.NCAA.com/MensCollegeCup to secure your seats!

News you can use

District 10 CIF and NDF appropriations

Councilman Mulvihill-initiated D-10 Capital Improvement Funds (CIF) appropriations documentation dating to 2016 is linked here.  The D-10 Neighborhood Development Funds (NDF) appropriations document is linked here.

Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services District 10 cases

Note: short term rental is the general term used to describe vacation rentals including AirBNB, VRBO, and Tripping. 

December 4 - Public Hearing regarding 1628 Belmar Drive

December 6 - Public Hearing regarding 4202 Poplar Level Road

December 6 - Public Hearing regarding 1 Audubon Plaza Drive

December 6 - Neighbor meeting regarding 2041 Bashford Manor Lane

See a PDF of the letter with map. 

23-CAT2-0049, 4512 Bishop Lane, a Category 2b Development Plan to construct a 42,000 SF industrial flex space on 2.2 acres in the M2/M3 zoning district. Bishop Lane Flex Development. 

23-CAT3-0014, 3910 Produce Road, Revised Submittal of a Category 3 review for a 119,850 SF Storage/Distribution Warehouse on 6.4027 acres in the M-3 zoning district. Exeter Warehouse.

2230 Buechel Avenue

23-COA-0305, 2230 Buechel Avenue, Certificate of Appropriateness, Individual Landmark, for the addition of a historical dining car, new concrete foundation for the panel track to store the caboose and new dining car. Train Depot. 

23-ZONE-0128, 2230 Buechel Avenue, Revised Submittal of an application for a Change in Zoning from R-4 and R-5 to C-1 for a Mixed Use Development. Buechel Train Depot Revitalization. 

4505 Bishop Lane

23-CAT2-0040, 4505 Bishop Lane, revisions required for a Category 2B plan to demolish two existing warehouses and part of one warehouse and replace with one new warehouse building and addition of loading dock at the end of the proposed warehouse off Eastmoor Road. Master Supply.

23-VARIANCE-0140, 4505 Bishop Lane, a Variance to allow encroachment into the required setback along Eastmoor Road. Master Supply. 

23-WAIVER-0151,  4505 Bishop Lane, a Waiver to not provide the required 30% tree canopy. Master Supply. 

4310 Bishop Lane

23-DDP-0081, 4310 Bishop Lane, revisions submitted for a District Development Plan with waivers for proposed contractor's shops on 1.02 acres in the C2 zoning district. Bishop Business Center.

23-WAIVER-0158, 4310 Bishop Lane, a Landscape Waiver to reduce the required landscape buffer area for the vehicular use area and omit the perimeter landscape buffer area. Bishop Business Center.

4202 Poplar Level Road

23-DDP-0048, 4202 Poplar Level Road, a Revised District Development plan for parking reconfiguration on 0.4084 acres in the C-2 zoning district. VisionFirst.

23-WAIVER-0183, 4202 Poplar Level Road, an application for a waiver of the requirements of LDC section 10.2.11 to reduce the number of plantings required along street frontages. VisionFirst.

1 Audubon Plaza Drive

23-DDP-0080, 1 Audubon Plaza Drive, a Revised District Development Plan for a proposed parking structure on 6.59 acres in the OTF zoning district. Norton Parking Structure. 

23-VARIANCE-0122, 1 Audubon Plaza Drive, a Variance from Section 4.2.29.B to allow a structure to be within 30 feet of the property line. Norton Parking Structure. 

23-MCUP-0011, 1 Audubon Plaza Drive, a Modified Conditional Use Permit for Parking Garage Redevelopment. Norton Parking Garage.

23-LANDSCAPE-0187, 1 Audubon Plaza Drive, a Landscape Plan for a parking garage on 27.1842 acres in the OTF zoning district. Norton Audubon Hospital Parking Garage Replacement. 

4730 Champions Trace Lane:

19-DDP-0077, 4730 Champions Trace Lane, a Revised District Development Plan for a medical office and dialysis center on 1.4 acres in the C2 zoning district. 

19-VARIANCE-0076, 4730 Champions Trace Lane, a variance from section 4.8.1 of the Land Development Code to allow the proposed pavement to encroach into the middle and outer 100-foot stream buffer for a medical office on 1.4 acres in the C2 zoning district. 

21-DDP-0087, 2020 Bashford Manor Lane, a District Development Plan for a building expansion. Walmart Fulfillment Center. 

23-LANDSCAPE-0193, 2221 Bradford Drive, a Revised Submittal of a landscape plan for a multi-family development. Bohn-Bradford Drive. 

23-LANDSCAPE-0179, 4202 Poplar Level Road, a Landscape Plan for an existing commercial building and site to be used as an eyecare office. VisionFirst.

23-MCUP-0008, 3417 Community Horizon Circle, Application for a Modified Conditional Use Permit for a parking lot on 2.68 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

23-MCUP-0003, 1841 Taylor Avenue, a Modified Conditional Use Permit to expand the square footage of underground storage on 4.3976 acres in the M-2 and CM zoning districts. Louisville Underground Expansion. 

23-MPLAT-0155, 2608 Hikes Lane, a Minor Plat to create two lots from one on 10.5 acres in the R4 zoning district. Wallitsch Minor Plat.

22-MPLAT-0044, 4322 Mildaun Road, application for a Minor Plat change to create two lots from one on .736 acres in the R-4 zoning district and SW form district. Bicker Division.

21-MPLAT-0011, for 3901 Atkinson Square Drive, a Minor Plat Application to create two lots from one lot on 9.59 acres in the C2 zoning district. 

23-VARIANCE-0143, 932 Audubon Parkway, Construction of a garage within the required accessory structure setback 

3560 Bashford Avenue

23-WAIVER-0116, 3560 Bashford Avenue, a Waiver of LDC Chapter 10.2.4.B.8 to omit the required landscape buffer area along a portion of the side and rear property line. TEM Group Rezoning.

23-ZONE-0107, 3560 Bashford Avenue, Revised Submittal of an application for a Zoning Change from PRO to PEC or M-1 to allow the existing contractor's shop to remain with an additional building, parking, and outdoor storage area on 2.02 acres. TEM Group.

2814 Newburg Road

19-WAIVER-0112, 2814 Newburg Road, a waiver for the sidewalk requirement along Newburg Road. 
19-WAIVER-0113, 2814 Newburg Road, a waiver to allow detached houses to abut a private street.  

4202 Poplar Level Road

23-WAIVER-0097, 4202 Poplar Level Road, a Waiver of the requirements of LDC section 10.2.10 to allow the existing pavement to encroach into the required 10’ landscape buffer areas along Poplar Level Road, Taylor Avenue and Redwood Drive. VisionFirst. 

23-WAIVER-0098, 4202 Poplar Level Road, a Waiver of the requirements of LDC section 10.2.12 to allow a portion of the proposed interior landscape areas to be less than the minimum required area of 290 square feet and less than the minimum required width of eight feet. VisionFirst. 

Short Term Rental cases

23-CUPPA-0062, 3709 Willmar Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit Pre-Application for a non-primary residence Short Term Rental on 0.2602 acres in the R-4 zoning district.

23-CUP-0266, 1537 Lincoln Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on .083 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

23-CUP-0149, 1628 Belmar Drive, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on 0.1357 acres in the R-5 zoning district. 

22-CUP-0066, 1607 Orchard Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on .14 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

20-CUP-0147 for 1500 Lincoln Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a short term rental at a non primary residence on 0.18 acres in the R5 zoning district.

Check on Planning and Design Services cases.

 Locate legal Short Term Rentals with interactive map

Short term rental enforcement continues in large part to be complaint-driven, based on public reporting of alleged violations to administrators.

An interactive map tool contains all of the registered short term rentals in Louisville having an active permit to rent their property out to paying customers on STR websites like Airbnb.

If you believe someone is using a property as a short term rental but it does not show up on this registry, or if the registry indicates a non-owner occupied property does not have a CUP, then please report the issue here (select “Zoning and Business Concerns,” “Zoning Concern,” “Short Term Rental,” complete the form and submit). Or contact our office. 

An easy way to find out where Louisville Water is working

Is Louisville Water working in your area? Our website offers an easy way to find out. An interactive map shows not only construction locations but also details on the projects, including the status, type, and even the project manager's phone number. While the map shows all planned projects, please note that it currently does not display repairs on water main breaks.

Driver licensing - REAL ID enforcement date extended to May 7, 2025

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended the REAL ID Act enforcement date by two years offering Kentuckians, and residents of other states, more time to request a compliant driving or identity credential that maintains air travel access and military base entry. The enforcement date has been moved from May 3, 2023 to May 7, 2025. Read details on REAL ID.

Be informed about crimes with LMPD's crime mapping website

The Louisville Metro Police Department uses a Crime Mapping website to display crime on a map in Jefferson County. 

Zoom in to see crimes in an area, or put an address in the address bar at top left to search. You may sign up for auto email alerts for crime around an address. Reports are made available to the public after a process of internal review, often in the same day as the report taken. Due to the nature of some crimes, reports are made available to public upon the completion of a thorough investigation and will be made available as soon as practical.

These LMPD divisions serve sections of District 10:

• Link to LMPD Fourth Division 
• Link to LMPD Fifth Division
• Link to LMPD Sixth Division

Know the signs of human trafficking - you could save a life

Do you know the indicators of human trafficking? You could save a life. 

If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-373-7888 to speak with a specially trained Anti-Trafficking Hotline Advocate. Support is provided in more than 200 languages. We are here to listen and connect you with the help you need to stay safe.

Callers can dial 711 to access the Hotline using TTY. Or text at 233733. Message and data rates may apply.

You can also email at help@humantraffickinghotline.org  or submit a tip online here.

Veterans Crisis Line 

Some offices and VA hospitals offer a "Health Promotion Disease Prevention Program" that includes treatment methods including acupuncture, tai chi, and meditation instead of opioids, and they work with the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, Press 1) to provide support and treatment for PTSD and depression, the leading cause of suicide for veterans.

Additional references for VA material and assistance or 1-877-WAR-VETS. Lifestyle changes for better health, or sexual trauma.

"Embrace the Journey" website for parents of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents

For LGBTQ+ children and adolescents,a parent’s support makes all the difference. The Embrace the Journey website is designed to educate the parents of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents about how to give children the emotional support they need.

Streetlight out? Report it. 

Please report non-working streetlights to LG&E.  Report a hazard on a state road or highway, such as non-working highway lighting or potholes.

Reporting potholes

• Report online. 
• Use Twitter by sending the location of the hole to @LouMetro311 and include the hashtag #502pothole.
• Call Metro311 or 574-5000 to report potholes or any other issues. 

Report litterers

Get directly involved in making Louisville a more litter-free community through the Report-A-Litterer program aimed at motorists who throw fast-food wrappers, cigarette butts, soda bottles or any type of litter out their car window.

Help stop wire theft along Kentucky's highways

• Report any information about wire thefts at Kentucky interchanges to the KYTC Office of
  Inspector General (OIG) Office at 502-330-7506. If your information leads to an arrest and conviction, you may be eligible for the $5,000 reward.
• Report active crimes or suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
• Report dark intersections to the KYTC Traffic Operations Center at 877-FOR-KYTC

Would you like to serve on one of Louisville Metro's Boards or Commissions? 

Are you interested in volunteering?  Louisville Metro Government has more than 70 boards and commissions - everything from the board of the Louisville Water Company to Metro Parks to the Louisville Planning Commission. We are always in search of citizens willing to serve on boards. Most boards are voluntary-based and are not paid but the reward of serving pays big dividends to our community.

To complete an application, please visit   https://louisvilleky.gov/government/mayor-craig-greenberg/interested-serving-board-or-commission

If you know of a community event you'd like to be considered for inclusion on the District 10 enews, let us know. Please email our office: sara.feltner@louisvilleky.gov or call 574-1110.

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