Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 04/19/2024 11:49 AM EDT
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
Only service requests for the past 30 days will be accessible in the system. If you need information on an older request, please call Metro 311 for status.
To receive email notifications of the status of your service request you must have an account and you must have included your email address when you created your account. You can create a new account and report a new issue.
Not all issues you put a service request in for require you to login. Some issues may be submitted anonymously, such as reporting a pothole and property maintenance cases, for instance. But having an account will allow you to track the progress and status of the request.
News from Mayor Greenburg and the City of Louisville
Mayor, FOP celebrate proposed contract agreements to bolster LMPD recruiting efforts and increase transparency
Agreements require approval by Metro Council
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 17, 2024) – Mayor Craig Greenberg was joined today by Ryan Nichols, president of the River City FOP, Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) leadership and community members to celebrate the new proposed four-year contracts which include a 22% salary increase over four years and strengthen transparency and recruiting efforts. Currently, LMPD is 260 officers short of full strength.
If approved by the Metro Council, the contracts will guarantee a 22% salary increase over four years for all officers, sergeants, lieutenants, and captains, making LMPD’s salaries competitive and bringing them in line with other police departments in Louisville and the region. Members will receive an immediate 7% percent raise as part of the new contracts. The starting annual pay for LMPD officers will increase from $52,000 to nearly $67,000 by July 2026.
“I am proud that these contracts represent Louisville Metro Government’s commitment to recruitment, retention and the overall wellbeing of our police officers,” said Mayor Greenberg. “They also show our commitment to transparency, accountability, and the collective safety of our entire community. I am hopeful the Metro Council will vote to approve these agreements, ultimately helping us better support our police officers and our city as we create a safer Louisville for everyone.”
In addition to pay raises, the contracts also define the process for misconduct investigations more clearly regarding timelines and review prior to discipline. Other changes include clarifying the circumstances under which body worn cameras may be remotely accessed for live viewing for legitimate reasons such as safety, investigative or tactical purposes.
“This has been a collaborative effort with the administration and command staff to try to increase the level of public safety we can provide to the citizens of our community,” said President Ryan Nichols of the River City Fraternal Order of Police. “We appreciate the community’s support and we encourage the Metro Council to approve these contracts as well.”
“We must attract officers who have the passion and the drive to serve our community,” said LMPD Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel. “You can pay your officers well and still require accountability. You will get that commitment from us as we move this department forward.”
Both contracts were approved by union members with more than 90% of votes cast in support of the agreements. Community members also spoke in favor of the contracts at Wednesday’s event. “I couldn’t do what I do and stay safe without the help of LMPD,” said longtime violence prevention nonprofit leader Kim Moore. “I’m so grateful for these contracts and I look forward to partnering with our police officers through initiatives like Group Violence Intervention, as we work to make our city safer for everyone.”
Louisville Metro Council News
Metro Council meeting highlights for Thursday, April 11
Below is a recap of the regularly scheduled Metro Council meeting
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 11, 2024) – The Louisville Metro Council held their regularly scheduled Council meeting tonight. Here are some of the highlights from the meeting.
Old Business
R-027-24: a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Marvin Hart, Louisville’s first heavyweight boxing champion, by dedicating the corner of Muhammad Aldi Blvd and First Street in his honor.
R-028-24: a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Gregory Page, Louisville’s last heavyweight boxing champion, by dedicating the corner of Muhammad Ali Blvd and Second Street in his honor.
O-048-24: Neighborhood Development Funds to the Crescent Hill Community Council for security costs for the Frankfort Avenue Easter Parade.
Two ordinances changing the zoning at 141-143 East Woodlawn Avenue and 7601 Vaughn Mill Road.
O-056-24: an ordinance approving a Revised Detailed District Development Plan along Old Heady Road.
Special Recognitions and Proclamations
Metro Council recognized the Louisville Fire Department and other first responders for their actions during the 2nd Street Bridge incident.
Council recognized Yu Emily Liu, Director of the Office of Planning, in honor of her retirement.
Councilwoman Fowler recognized Wanda Trimble for her contributions to the community.
Consent Calendar – all items passed unanimously
O-052-24: Neighborhood Development Funds for the Annual Jazz in Central Park festival.
O-057-24: Neighborhood Development Funds for overtime expenses associated with additional LMPD 4th Division patrols in the Old Louisville and Limerick neighborhoods.
R-024-24: a resolution approving the granting of local incentives to Chemical and Industrial Engineering, Inc.
R-026-24: a resolution accepting funding from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet towards bridge repairs on Goldsmith Lane.
Held at Council
R-007-24: resolution urging the United States Congress and President to facilitate a ceasefire in Palestine and Israel.
The next regularly scheduled Council meeting is on Thursday, April 25, 2024. The Metro Council meeting will begin at 4 p.m. The first order of business will be Mayor Greenberg’s budget address.
Public Health and Wellness News
City leaders recommend 21 projects for opioid settlement funding totaling $5.3 million
Mayor Craig Greenberg was joined by the Louisville Opioid Settlement Advisory Board and representatives from numerous community organizations this week to announce recommendations for proposals to be funded by the second opioid settlement allotment of $5.3 million. This follows the $900 million in opioid settlement funds secured by the state of Kentucky in 2021, with funding distributed across the commonwealth for use on evidence-based strategies to address opioid prevention, treatment and recovery. Louisville has received $7.2 million in total settlement funds, with $2 million in the first round of funding previously approved for distribution by Metro Council in August 2023.
“After extensive research and community listening, we know our community wants these dollars to help save lives, help fuel prevention efforts, support addiction treatment and recovery and help address homelessness – and today I am proud to announce that is exactly what this funding will do,” said Mayor Greenberg. “The $5.2 million will fund 21 projects throughout Louisville and offer direct support to those affected by opioid addiction. This is progress we will continue to build on as we create a safer, stronger and healthier city for everyone.”
Organizations recommended for this round of funding responded to a Request for Applications (RFA) in the fall of 2023. To be considered for funding, proposals had to address prevention, treatment, recovery, or homelessness and be evidence-based or evidence-informed, as well as responsive to local data and needs identified by community.
Louisville Tourism hosts DEI workshop focusing on human trafficking awareness
Join Louisville Tourism for their free industry-wide DEI training webinar, “Human Trafficking Awareness and Response in Tourism” on Wednesday, April 24. Please log in at 8:50 a.m., and the hour-long presentation will begin at 9 a.m. Please use this link to register.
Human trafficking affects over 21 million people, and many traffickers use hotels and airlines to carry out these heinous crimes. As tourism professionals, we must remain vigilant to notice the signs to act.
Jefferson County Residents Can Apply for Electric Assistance through Metro RCS
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 16, 2024) – Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Spring Subsidy Cooling Component applications will be accepted on a first come, first-served basis from April 16 to May 31, 2024, or until designated funds are depleted. Kentucky households, up to 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, can receive a benefit to offset their home electric costs.
The Spring Subsidy Cooling Component provides households a one-time benefit ranging from $38 to $200 depending on income levels and housing category. Benefits are paid directly to the household’s electric vendor.
Jefferson County residents wishing to apply must schedule an appointment utilizing the automated appointment system. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling 502-991-8391 or online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com. The toll-free service is currently open and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
All applicants will be required to supply the following documentation at time of application:
Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
Proof of income from the preceding month for all members of the household.
Most current electric bill, statement from your landlord if electric is included in your rent, statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program.
The account number and name on the account for main heating fuel sources and electric bill.
Assistance received during previous LIHEAP components does not affect a household's eligibility.
Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with 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.
###
About Community Action Kentucky
Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting all 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and improved health outcomes. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more.
As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.
Office of Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods News
Newburg Neighborhood Will Pilot an Innovative, Comprehensive Reduction Plan
The Office for Safe and Health Neighborhoods (OSHN) has been awarded $2 million from the Dept. of Justice to establish a neighborhood specific strategy to intervene gun violence in Newburg that will also expand or support other city gun violence strategies.
“The Newburg Gun Violence Reduction Project” is a pilot that will work to strengthen the city’s intervention/prevention strategy on the neighborhood level.
“This pilot will give us valuable insight into the needs of a specific geographical area,” said Paul Callanan, director of OSHN. “This is grassroots. It will help us discover how well all stakeholders work collectively as we use Newburg’s social dynamic and neighborhood characteristics.”
In addition, the grant will support professional mediation training for 75 outreach workers, the hiring of one an additional outreach case coordinator and a Newburg neighborhood-specific manager. An “interrupters” site will also be opened. Violence interrupters are credible individuals with deep neighborhood connections and whose job is to canvas and “disrupt” violence when possible.
Louisville Parks and Recreation News
Urban Forestry offers free mulch to Louisville citizens
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 15, 2024) – The Urban Forestry Division of Louisville Parks and Recreation is hosting Mulch Mondays starting April 22 through the summer.
Louisville citizens or non-profit organizations can pick up natural, dye-free mulch at our Urban Forestry office located on 9200 Whipps Mill Road, Lyndon, KY 40242 on Mondays from 1-3 p.m. We ask that you bring your own containers to transport the mulch back home. These containers could include trailers, truck beds, buckets, or garbage bags.
The mulch is created with dead or dying trees that our Urban Forestry Division removes from public property, including parks, parkways, and easements.
“Mulch can provide so many benefits to your garden and tree berms,” said Mesude Ozyurekoglu Assistant Director of Urban Forestry of Louisville Parks and Recreation. “Naturally dye-fee mulch can help with insulation and provide essential nutrients to the soil while helping with water retention.”
###
ABOUT LOUISVILLE PARKS AND RECREATION
Louisville Parks and Recreation, a nationally accredited parks and recreation agency, manages more than 120 parks and six parkways on more than 13,000 acres of land and operates recreation programs for area residents of all ages and abilities through its 14 community centers. The department’s inventory also includes 10 golf courses; the Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center and four outdoor pools; the David Armstrong Extreme Park; two historic homes; the historic Iroquois Amphitheater performance venue; and the nation’s largest municipally owned urban forest, Jefferson Memorial Forest. More details on the department’s people and programs can be found at bestparksever.com.
Office of Planning News
Changes to the Louisville Metro Land Development Code (LDC) for Middle Housing
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 10, 2024) - On March 18, 2024, Louisville Metro’s Office of Planning released a draft of proposed changes to the Louisville Metro Land Development Code (LDC) for Middle Housing. These draft changes would allow Middle Housing to be built in all residential areas throughout Louisville Metro and includes six different building types: duplex, triplex, fourplex, townhouses, walking courts, and cottage courts. Visit www.louisvilleky.gov/middlehousing to learn more about Middle Housing, read the detailed changes, view maps and graphics, and submit comments.
Today, the Office of Planning made updates to the website and added several new resources for Middle Housing, including:
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Middle Housing draft (Is Middle Housing affordable housing? Is Middle Housing only for renters?)
In addition, the Office of Planning also released proposed changes to the Factory Built Housing standards in the LDC, responding to a December 2023 resolution from the Planning Commission. You can learn more about Factory Built Housing, review the proposed changes, and submit comments at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/planning-design/modular-factory-built-housing.
Finally, last week the Office of Planning released three (3) pre-approved building plans for Accessory Dwelling Units. These plans were selected through a design contest in 2023, with partnership and funding from AARP, and are “pre-approved,” which indicates that the Offices of Planning and Construction Review have reviewed each plan and determined that they comply generally with local zoning and building code requirements. All three plans are now available for free on the ADU website.
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.
Waste Management News
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.
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
