Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 12/29/2023 11:05 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'S OFFICE AT NEWBURG LIBRARY (4800 EXETER AVE.)
Louisville Metro Police Department 6th Division Questions? Contact Us
STAY CONNECTED:
CLICK HERE OR CALL 574-LMPD (5673) TO SUBMIT A CRIME TIP
Councilwoman Shanklin and the D-2 Office wish you and your family a Happy New Year!
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News from Mayor Greenburg and the City of Louisville
Richard Price named director of Codes and Regulations
Long-time director Robert Kirchdorfer retiring after 42 years of public service
LOUISVILLE, KY. (December 27, 2023) – Louisville Metro Government’s Department of Codes and Regulations will welcome a new director next month.
Mayor Craig Greenberg has appointed Richard Price, current assistant director of Louisville Metro Fleet and Facilities, to the position effective January 22. Current Codes and Regulations Director Robert Kirchdorfer will retire after 42 years with Louisville Metro Government following a transition period.
“I want to thank Robert for a life of public service and dedication to our city and wish him well in retirement,” said Mayor Greenberg. “At the same time, I am excited to welcome Richard, another dedicated public servant, as the new Codes and Regulations director. He brings with him a broad base of government and management experience that will be invaluable to the department’s work, which impacts the lives of residents every day.”
From issuing building permits and inspecting new construction to enforcing of our city ordinances and maintaining vacant lots, the Department of Codes and Regulations plays an active role in the development and maintenance of our city. Later this month, the department will also launch a new public facing rental registry and will begin proactive inspections of rental units throughout the city.
“I look forward to joining the Codes & Regulations team and gaining a better understanding of the many tasks the department handles on behalf of the city,” Price said. “I also want to thank Robert for staying on to impart his knowledge and ensure a smooth transition.”
Price has served as assistant director of Fleet and Facilities since 2015. Prior to that, he worked in roles with the Office of Management and Budget, Solid Waste Management Services (SWMS), and Louisville Metro Animal Services. Collectively, Price brings with him more than 20 years of experience in operational-based reporting, productivity tracking, process improvement planning, and labor management.
Price is current a member of the Society for Human Resource Management and serves on the board of the Kentuckiana Basketball Officials Association.
Mayor Greenberg finishes first year with strong economic growth, more than $1 billion in announced capital investment
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 21, 2023) – Louisville’s economic momentum remained strong in 2023 with Louisville Metro Government’s Economic Development team locating 59 projects that represent just over $1 billion in new investment. The new investment brings 2,302 new jobs with an an average wage of nearly $60,000.
“This has been a transformative year for Louisville,” said Mayor Craig Greenberg. “I am proud of the investment we received this year. I look forward to even greater economic success as we begin implementing our new economic development plan, Growing Louisville Together. We remain focused on creating opportunities for people in all of our city’s neighborhoods through continued investment in quality of life, educational opportunities, and support for entrepreneurs and startups. As we look forward to 2024, we remain committed to fostering a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable economy for all Louisvillians.”
Among the major projects announced this year are:
Stellar Snacks, a new $137 million manufacturing plant creating 350 new jobs;
Midea America Corp., a $35 million expansion with 200 new jobs;
Congo Brands, a $23.4 million expansion with 500 new jobs;
Multi-Color Corporation, a $22.9 million expansion creating 90 new jobs; and
HJI Supply Chain Solutions, a $14.7 million expansion adding 76 new jobs.
With its investment in the Park Hill neighborhood, Stellar Snacks is one of the most exciting economic development projects to locate in west Louisville in at least 20 years. Company co-founder Elisabeth Galvin said she knew Louisville was the right place to open a new facility as soon as she landed in the city.
“I felt the magic. I felt the energy of the city and the people,” she said during an October press event. “We are so humbled to partner with this incredible community to take Stellar to the next level and have some fun in the process.”
While the initial announcement of economic development projects sparks excitement, the completion of those projects is even more important. In 2021, GE Appliances made a commitment to Louisville to invest $450 million at its Appliance Park headquarters and add more than 1,000 jobs to the manufacturing hub by the end of 2023. This September, GE Appliances, a Haier Company, completed that commitment by unveiling two new state-of-the-art assembly lines in the dishwasher manufacturing facility.
The Louisville Metro Department of Economic Development works in concert with the city’s real estate development and land use planning staff to offer concierge service to companies looking to grow their business or locate new operations. The team convenes all local and state partners to ensure companies looking to locate or grow in Louisville have a single point of contact throughout the entirety of their project and beyond.
“I am so proud of our team for another banner year in creating an environment for economic growth and opportunity. Numbers speak for themselves, but the true impact of the work of economic development is in the opportunity our work creates for all Louisvillians,” said Benjamin Moore, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “These investments highlight the fantastic opportunities that Louisville offers new and existing companies to establish, grow and thrive here by providing them world-class service, while maintaining our dedication to growing equitable economic development for our entire community.”
Louisville continues to rank as a top place to live and work, receiving numerous accolades and recognitions throughout 2023:
Site Selection Magazine - No. 1 in the Ohio River Corridor for economic development
Travel + Leisure Magazine - No. 4 Most Beautiful and Affordable Place to Live in the U.S.
Livability - A Best Place to Live in the U.S. in 2023
E2 - Kentucky ranked second fastest growing clean energy sector in the U.S.
Travel + Leisure Magazine - No. 9 Foodie City in the U.S.
com - No. 3 Top Housing Market of 2023
Received a perfect score on the Human Rights Commission’s Municipality Index for nine years in a row
Mayor and Metro Council announce $25 million in construction projects at parks and libraries across Louisville
Funding comes from the American Rescue Plan and will focus on four library branches plus deferred maintenance at parks and community centers
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 19, 2023) – Mayor Greenberg joined members of the Metro Council today to announce more than a dozen new construction projects at parks and libraries across the city. Last week, the council approved $25 million in American Rescue Plan funding for renovations at four library branches and deferred maintenance projects at various parks and community centers. The mayor and council members formally announced the projects at a press conference at the Parkland Library in West Louisville.
“Whether it’s Jefferson Memorial Forest, a neighborhood park, or one our 17 library branches, Louisville’s parks and libraries are among the most popular places to visit in the entire city,” said Mayor Greenberg. “When it became clear we needed to reinvest this federal funding we focused on projects that will impact the most people. I am so thankful for the Metro Council’s quick work to deploy this funding so we can get started on these exciting upgrades and renovations in the very near future.”
Parks and Recreation to invest $10 million in deferred maintenance
The $10 million allocated to Louisville Parks and Recreation will go toward a wide array of projects across the city that will include an additional $2 million for upgrades to the Algonquin and Norton pools, parking lot and sport court resurfacing and replacement, new lighting, and repairs to shelters and community centers. $1.2 million will go towards new equipment for the department’s operations and forestry teams as well as some desperately needed upgrades at parks and recreation maintenance facilities.
“Each of these projects is vitally important to those who use our parks and community centers every single day. I want to thank Mayor Greenberg and the Metro Council for giving them their full attention,” said Jason Canuel, Director of Parks and Recreation. “This continued investment will only strengthen our city and we are eager to get to work improving our facilities across Louisville.”
Four libraries to undergo extensive renovations
The Portland Library has served continuously since opening in 1913. However, the building has not been extensively renovated in more than three decades. ARP funding, coupled with private and state dollars will allow LFPL to more than double the square footage of Portland – from 6,000 to nearly 12,000. The building will be wheelchair accessible and offer modern library services seen at our other recently built libraries, including new technologies and a makerspace.
The building of a new Fern Creek Library will return library services to one of the fastest growing areas of Metro Louisville, after budget cuts forced the closure of the old branch in 2019. The new, state-of-the-art 18,000-square-foot library—located on Fern Creek Road next to Fern Creek High School—will be similar in size and scope to the recently built St. Matthews Library.
The Main Library—opened in 1908 and expanded in 1969-- is the largest public library facility in the state and serves as the nucleus of our Louisville Free Public Library System. ARP funding will support transformative changes to Louisville’s flagship library and bring it on par with LFPL’s three world-class regional libraries opened over the last decade.
In 2021, the council approved nearly $20 million in ARP funding for these three projects plus renovations to the Parkland Library. Today’s allocation of an additional $15 million in ARP funding, coupled with a pledged $5 million to be raised by the Library Foundation, closes the remaining funding gap for all four projects to $4.7 million.
“By allocating additional funding to these capital projects, Mayor Greenberg and Metro Council are allowing the Louisville Free Public Library to better serve the growing needs of our community now and into the future,” said Library Director Lee Burchfield. “With the additional dollars, we won’t have to compromise on these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. We will be able to move these projects forward, from aspirational designs to inspirational spaces.”
Louisville Metro Council News
Metro Council Passes Ordinance to Fund Additional Projects and Reduce New Debt
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 21, 2023) - Last week the Louisville Metro Council unanimously approved an ordinance (O-274-23) that allowed for the transfers of operating funding between departments as part of closing out the 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Budget. This ordinance not only funded $9,315,900 in new capital projects and $2,500,000 in additional FY23-24 operating budget, but it also marked the beginning of a new effort members of the Metro Council made when making amendments to Mayor Greenberg’s budget proposal.
During the deliberation of the FY23-24 Budget, Committee Chairman Rick Blackwell (District 12) and Vice-Chair Kevin Kramer (District 11) proposed that rather than wait until the winter, to determine if additional revenues would materialize, the members of the Metro Council would include within the budget document a list of projects that would receive funding should Metro Revenues exceed revenue projections. This document would allocate additional revenue to Public Works and Parks projects as well as assistance to non-profits. This proposal also included language that directed additional funding beyond that which was identified to go towards the reduction of debt that was planned as part of the Mayor’s proposal.
As a result of $16,584,989.82 in new revenue collected, the following allocations have been approved:
Reduction of $4.8 million in planned new debt
Operating funds increased by $2.5 million
$250,000 Additional for California Park and Community Center Improvements for a total of $1,250,000
$1,000,000 Additional for Sidewalk Repair for a total of $4 million
$315,900 Additional for Pavement Markings for a total of $1,480,700
$135,000 new project D12 Romania Drive paving
$115,000 new project D11 Paving at Blackacre Historic Home and Nature Preserve
$500,000new project Traffic Signal Communications and Controller Upgrades
$2,000,000 new project Harbor House Intergenerational Life Center
$5,000,000 new project VOA Veterans Housing on Dixie Highway
$9,315,900 total new appropriations approved
“Knowing there will never be enough funding to meet all identified needs in the community, the budget committee believed it prudent to identify the Council priorities for the fiscal year while we were engaged in the budget process. We then funded what we could in the original budget and committed to do others as funding became available. Of course, there needs to be flexibility in the process, and we honored the administration’s request to set aside funds for contract negotiations. I hope we are able to continue the practice in next year’s budget proceedings.” – Councilman Rick Blackwell, Metro Council Budget and Appropriations Committee Chair
“The Metro Council spends more than 50 hours each year conducting budget hearings and setting priorities. This year we decided to build on that information and create a plan that would help guide us in the event of increased revenues or even just guide us as we would begin the next year’s budget preparations. The decision to set aside a portion of new revenue to reduce debt will save our community more than $2 million while also allowing for those projects that we deemed needed to get the funding necessary to move forward. I thank my colleagues for their support for this and hope that it will be something that we continue to support in future budget deliberations.” - Councilman Kevin Kramer, Metro Council Budget and Appropriations Committee Vice-Chair
Public Health and Wellness News
Your questions answered: Are flu cases on the rise?
Is Jefferson County seeing an increase in influenza (flu) cases?
Yes, currently there is an increase in cases of flu being reported in Louisville, across Kentucky and the U.S.
People who have the flu can spread it to others. Flu is spread by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. The droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or inhaled into the lungs. There are every day actions you can take to protect yourself from flu: avoid close contact with people who are sick, wash your hands often with warm water and soap, use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol if you aren't able to wash your hands, and get your flu vaccine. Wearing an N95 mask also offers protection. Viruses in the air can spread between people more easily indoors than outdoors. Improving air quality, such as opening windows or using air purifiers, can help reduce the amount of virus you are exposed to.
Is it too late to get vaccinated for the flu?
It’s not too late to get your flu vaccine. The vaccine will trigger your immune system to produce antibodies to protect against flu. It can take about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop.
Can adults get COVID and flu vaccine at the same time?
Yes. Also, if you are eligible for the RSV vaccine, it can be given at the same time as flu and COVID vaccines.
To learn more information about flu and for a listing of flu vaccine providers, please visit our website or vaccines.gov. Vaccines are given by appointment at our Newburg and Dixie clinics. If you have questions or need assistance, call 502-574-5380. Language assistance is available.
Office of Resilience and Community Services News
LIHEAP Appointments Still Available
Need help paying your heating bills? The LIHEAP program can provide heating assistance and disconnection prevention, helping Louisville families maintain a warm and safe environment. Households up to 150% of the federal poverty guidelines may be eligible for assistance through the program, and the application process is quick and easy. Click here for more information.
District 2 (and surrounding areas) Updates and News
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!
This dashboard shows two different types of projects:
Current Projects that have received funding and are working towards construction.
Future Projects that are not yet funded but are serious contenders to apply for future funding opportunities.
Public Works built this database to increase transparency, track data, measure progress towards meeting goals, and aid future decision-making. This data will inform which transportation projects are submitted for future funding opportunities, including federal grants. As priorities change over time, projects will be added, removed, or modified. Public Works greatly values the opinions of Metro Council members and their constituents, so feedback is important to ensure that we are addressing their needs. Currently this dashboard only shows federally funded projects, but work continues to add more information on various funding sources, project types, and data analysis.
To provide feedback on the tool itself or to request a change to the projects listed, please contact Amanda Deatherage, Transportation Planner Supervisor, Amanda.Deatherage@LouisvilleKY.gov.
Interested in serving on a board or commission?
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.
OSHN's Reimagine Network - Join Your Neighborhood Anti-Violence Coalition!
Change Happens When People Get Involved
OSHN’s Reimagine Network is charged with ensuring that assistance and resources are available for concerned, engaged citizens involved in the fight against violence. The Reimagine Network is OSHN’s community mobilization division and is the city’s gateway for where civic-minded neighbors come together to share concerns, address problems, and then work TOGETHER as they take an active role against anything that brings violence to their neighborhood.
We need more citizens to get involved - NOW.
We encourage residents to join a coalition, especially those in the Shawnee, Parkhill, Smoketown, Russell, Newburg, and Portland neighborhoods.
Coalitions are small groups of people with powerful reaches because they address issues and inequity through grassroots tactics, networking and ideas.
Such involvement is a strong, collective way to hold leaders accountable for community-driven change.
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.
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.
Join Fourth Street Live! for NYE Live! starting at 8 p.m. The event will feature exclusive access to more than 10 restaurants and bars, live entertainment by The Swerve, NYE-themed party favors, champagne toasts, and a countdown to midnight complete with the city's only "Times Square" ball drop!
Multiple tickets levels are available. Check out the different ticket options and secure your here.
Ring in the New Year from the river! Climb aboard the Mary M. Miller riverboat and cruise into 2024 in style on the annual New Year’s Bash cruise.
This special event cruise will board at 9:30 p.m. and cruise from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Cocktail attire is encouraged, but not required. Tickets are $104.99, this event is 21 and older only.
Experience the magic of Noon Years at Kentucky Science Center—a unique and family-friendly New Year’s celebration designed for all ages! Join them in counting down to noon with captivating scientific activities between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with all-day Science Center access from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Noon Years is free with purchase of admission to Kentucky Science Center. Get your tickets here.
Get ready to bid farewell to 2023 and welcome the arrival of 2024 in style at The Gillespie!
The doors will open at 9 p.m. Get ready to dance through the decades with the incredible Audio Graffiti! This dynamic band will transport you back in time, belting out hits from the 80s, rocking tunes from the 90s, and even throwing in some foot-stomping country beats.
Join in the fun with Logan Street Market's first "Noon Years Eve" to bring in the New Year! It's the ultimate family-friendly celebration for the little ones who can't stay up until midnight.
Fun starts at 11 a.m., as you get ready for a noon countdown with a lively dance party until 1 p.m. in the Wild Hops Venue with DJ Shawn!
Club K9 Dog Bar presents: New Year’s Eve Great “Dogsby” Celebration! Dress to the theme in Gatsby or 1920’s attire. There will be a photo wall, champagne toast, and Hors D’Oeuvres throughout the evening. The event goes from 7 to 10 p.m.
Dogs must be fixed and up to date on Bordetella, Rabies & Distemper (records must be sent to Clubk9louisville@gmail.com) *Currently waiving flu due to the national shortage*
Come celebrate the New Year on Irish time! Flanagan's Ale House in the Highlands will be ringing in the Irish New Year at 7 p.m. with a ball drop and champagne or Irish whiskey toast.
Funkasaurus Band will be taking the Red Room stage at 9:30 p.m.
The event begins at 2 p.m., admission is $5 per person.
Let go of the old and ring in the New Year with Black Jockey's Lounge and The Ultimate Show Band! The event will feature a specialty menu, midnight champagne toast featuring Korbel, and NYE balloon drop. Dress to impress and dance the night away into 2024.
Couple's tickets and individual tickets available for purchase. Get your tickets here.
Ring in the New Year at the annual New Year's Eve Contra Dance! This year will feature the band Hot Coffee Breakdown and Dwayne Johnson as caller.
There will be a beginner's lesson at 7:30 p.m., followed by dancing from 8 to 11:55 p.m., then a countdown to midnight with a waltz afterwards to bring in the new year.
Admission is $18 for all ages, with no charge for first time Contra dancers.
We worked and played so hard all year. Let's ring it in a bit early this year, shall we?
Join Against the Grain Public House and pretend you're in Munich, Germany, and start the festivities at 5 p.m.! Raise a glass each hour for a toast and enjoy drink and shot specials, games, your favorite beer on tap! Then, at 10 p.m., lift your glass of champagne because it will be midnight somewhere!
Celebrate a British New Year's Eve with Mile Wide and a ball drop at 7 p.m.! Enjoy the release of their brand-new English Pale Ale, Mrs. Featherbottom, and enjoy pint specials, as well as a fun cask of Mrs. Featherbottom for gravity pours on the bar.
The dudes from Mac's will be serving up some tasty food, with a few specials as well. And as you'd expect, there will be a champagne toast at "midnight," along with non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice for the kids.
Celebrate the New Year early with 3rd Turn Brewing! Enjoy a live performance by Boom Pah Pah band at 5 p.m., German beer on tap, food from Soul Fire food truck, Gluhwein (a traditional hot spiced wine), and a champagne toast at 6 p.m. to celebrate the German New Year!
German tap list includes Weihenstephaner Dunkel, Samual Smith Organic Chocolate Stout, Ayinger Celebrator Doppelbock, Brauerei Michael Plank Hefeweizen, Spaten Festbier, and more.
Whether you countdown on the rooftop or cozy up in Lucky Penny, there are plenty of ways to celebrate NYE at Hotel Genevieve.
Celebrate all day in the lobby with $10 champagne from the cart, enjoy a photo booth from 9 p.m. to midnight, then ring in the new year on the rooftop at Bar Genevieve. Drinks, dancing, and debauchery, soundtracked by the iconic DJ Syimone.
Learn more and get tickets to either the Lucky Penny or Bar Genevieve here.
Join Falls City on New Year's Eve and countdown to 2024 according to the party going on in London, England. They will be streaming the celebration from England for a ball drop at 7 p.m.!
The festivities kick off at 4 p.m. with live entertainment, great beer (including the release of Champagne Tripel Nova, a bottle conditioned Belgian-style tripel), food, and a complimentary champagne toast.
Welcome in 2024 and dance with Louisville Silent Disco at TEN20 Butchertown! The party kicks off at 9 p.m. and will run until 1 a.m. with a toast at midnight! Headphones are $20 in advance, or $30 the day of the event. Get your tickets here.
They will be playing 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 as you celebrate the New Year!
Ring in 2024 with The Checkmates and rock the night away with your favorite doo-wop tunes. Bubba's 33 Restaurant will provide a buffet-style dinner and a toast at midnight. The fun begins at 8 p.m., get ready for a spectacular evening of music, dancing, and fun as we say goodbye to 2023 and welcome in the new year!
Tables of 8 are reserved, so get your tickets early for the best seat in the house! A cash bar will be available.
Come out to Hilltop Tavern for an all-inclusive event to ring in the New Year and celebrate their 13th birthday!
Tickets are $80 per person and include a buffet featuring all your favorite Hilltop foods, drinks (cocktails, beers, wine, shots and champagne), two live bands, Jake Reber and Friends performing Parliament's 1971 album Maggot Brain, Cut Family Foundation, a dance party, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.
The 30/40 Club presents a New Year's Extravaganza for those 30 and over looking for a mature space to ring in the New Year. With two floors featuring two DJ's, a VIP section, complimentary food and more, this event is for those old enough to know better and young enough to not care!
A dress code will be strongly enforced, so come dressed to impress.
Virtue Bar & Lounge presents the 3rd annual NYE Sneaker Ball! Ring in the New Year while enjoying the open bar and kitchen at Virtue. Come dressed to impress and party to sounds of DJ Rell!
Tickets are $50 per person with VIP sections available. Call (502) 821-7074 to purchase your tickets.
Ring in 2024 with Black Tie Trivia at West Sixth NuLu! Grab your team and get festive. Festive New Year's Eve attire is encouraged. There will be some extra prizes for the New Year’s Eve trivia winner! Trivia begins at 5 p.m.
The taproom will remain open until 1 a.m. for those wanting to stick around and celebrate the start of 2024 with West Sixth Nulu.
Get ready for not one, but three days of NYE celebrations! Saturday, December 30th, enjoy the Blue Jeans & Blazers Day Party at Joe's Palm Room from 4 to 10 p.m. featuring DJ Samosa and DJ John Q.
Then on NYE, head to The Jefferson Venue to ring in 2024. This sophisticated 30 and over party will feature live entertainment with a special R&B performance and two DJ's. Enjoy photo booths, party favors, a cash bar, and a countdown to midnight on multiple screens. Attire is semi-formal and will be heavily enforced.
On Monday, from 12 to 6 p.m., join The Jefferson Venue once more for a Brunch/Day Party with music by DJ Duece and DJ Joy.
Ring in the new year with LRS102 the Walrus at 21st in Germantown. The event will feature live music from South Mouth, Austin Nethery band, and DJ Cammac with special guest host comedian, Lucious Williams.
There will be fun swag giveaways from LRS102 as well as giveaways from KY Coffee and more. Countdown to midnight and enjoy a champagne toast complete with balloon drop! Enjoy food and drink specials, live music after midnight, and more!
The party starts at 7 p.m., admission is $10 at the door.
Come ring in the New Year with Nouvelle Bar & Bottle as they do what they do best - pop champagne! Their "Completely Irresponsible Champagne List" is the deepest sparkling wine list in the region, and it will be in full swing with some extra limited selections as well.
Enjoy a great atmosphere and awesome tunes with friends as you toast to the New Year! Doors open at 5 p.m. No reservations required and no cover.
Bid farewell to 2023 and welcome the arrival of 2024 in style at Loft at the Biscuit Lounge! Prepare to be dazzled by stunning decorations, a vibrant atmosphere, and the company of fellow partygoers who are ready to make memories.
Grab your friends and put on your finest formal attire, a dress code will be enforced. There will be two floors to party on with music by two DJ's, DJ YK and DJ Outhere. Enjoy food curated by Exquisite Cuisines.
Louisville Free Public Library again exceeds one million digital checkouts; releases most read titles of 2023
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 27, 2023) – For the third year in a row, the Louisville Free Public Library has surpassed the one million digital check out milestone. With a record-breaking 1.4 million eBooks and downloadable audiobooks checked out in 2023, LFPL continues to enjoy strong growth and interest in digital materials.
LFPL’s total checkouts, including print books, eBooks, and audiobooks, topped 3.6 million in 2023 – with eBooks and audiobooks accounting for more than a third of that total.
Access to the Library’s vast catalog is free to all LFPL cardholders, and anyone living, working, owning property, or going to school in Jefferson County is eligible. To learn more, visit LFPL.org or stop by any of the Library’s area locations.
LFPL’s most borrowed books, eBooks, and audiobooks in 2023
Top eBooks
Verity by Colleen Hoover
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand
Top Fiction Books (print)
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham
Top Nonfiction Books (print)
Spare by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex
Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
Crying in H-Mart by Michelle Zauner
Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI by David Grann
Top Audiobooks
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
Spare by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Louisville Free Public Library unveils new Children’s Bookmobile
Library Foundation, donors help LFPL reach underserved youth in Louisville
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 20, 2023) – Aboard the Louisville Free Public Library’s brand-new Children’s Bookmobile, Mrs. Claus delivered an early holiday present to students at Engelhard Elementary School this morning – new books of their own. They were joined by Louisville’s First Lady Rachel Greenberg, library staff, and members of the Library Foundation and JBS Louisville for the public unveiling of the new bookmobile.
This new mobile library will deliver not only books, but also library storytimes, sensory experiences, and innovative programming to under-resourced communities. LFPL’s bookmobile service visits daycares, YMCA programs, community centers, faith-based organizations, and schools like Engelhard, as well as parks, block parties, and more, throughout the year.
“Having a new bookmobile will not only allow us to provide more continuous and dependable service to the community, but because it is larger than our current vehicle, we are able to carry more books and serve more children,” said Library Director Lee Burchfield. “With the help of donors to the Library Foundation, we are excited to strengthen our commitment to ensuring that children in our community have access to books and other resources that will help them be successful in school and life.”
The Bookmobile project was made possible by a generous donation from Eleemosynary by LMH Foundation, which challenged area donors and organizations to match funds. JBS more than answered that call donating $145,000 toward the $204,164 purchase cost of the vehicle. In total, the Library Foundation raised more than $315,000 which paid for the vehicle and its customization, as well as filled it full of books, technology, and other materials.
“The JBS team is incredibly proud of our investment in this bookmobile that will benefit families throughout our community,” said Erik Segura Martinez, General Manager, JBS Louisville. “Our Hometown Strong program allows JBS to support the region in many meaningful ways, and this project is an excellent example of our commitment to Louisville and our neighbors.”
"The arrival of our new bookmobile is a reflection of the incredible power of community support,” said Chandra Gordon, Executive Director of The Library Foundation.“Together, with a special thanks to the exceptionally generous contribution from JBS, we've transformed a dream into a reality. This bookmobile isn't just a vehicle; it's a mobile hub of knowledge, ready to bring the world of books to every corner of our community."
Center For Neighborhoods is now accepting applications for the Spring 2024 NeighborhoodInstitute
The NeighborhoodInstitute is a leadership education program designed to equip neighborhood leaders with the skills and resources needed to initiate positive change in the community through their neighborhood, homeowner, and condo associations. Classes meet every Saturday, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Center For Neighborhoods Offices (1126 Berry Blvd. Suite 300), for 11 consecutive weeks (January 13th, 2024 – March 23rd, 2024), followed by a Graduation Celebration on March 30th. A continental breakfast is provided each week. There is no charge to attend, but space is limited, and advance registration is required. Applications will be accepted through 5:00 pm on January 5th, 2024.
The Lucille Leggett NeighborhoodInstitute Spring 2024 is open to all neighborhoods, Metro Council Districts, and the whole community.
Hildegard House provides a home and compassionate care for individuals at the end of life who have no home or loved ones to care for them so they may die with dignity and access hospice care. It takes 84 Compassionate Companions to provide this weekly care and companionship and we are seeking compassionate volunteers to join our community! Our next volunteer training session will be on Friday, January 12 from 6 to 8 pm and Saturday, January 13th from 9 am to 4 pm. Visit our website hildegardhouse.org or call 502-653-1488 to learn more.
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.
The purpose of this monthly newsletter is to communicate with our community partners about events and provide information you may find beneficial to have and share with your neighbors. Our monthly letter will provide you with an overview of crime trends within the division and highlight the work our talented women and men do each day serving our community. We will also provide any information that could impact our neighborhoods and travel such as construction and festivals. Please feel free and share this newsletter with your friends, family, and neighbors. Signing up will ensure they receive the newsletter as soon as it is published.
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 Morgan McGarvey: (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
