District 2 Newsletter (May 02, 2024)

Barbara Shanklin

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 THIS MONTH TO MEET WITH COUNCILWOMAN SHANKLIN'S OFFICE AT NEWBURG LIBRARY (4800 EXETER AVE.)


Louisville Metro Police Department 6th Division Questions? Contact Us

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CLICK HERE OR CALL 574-LMPD (5673) TO SUBMIT A CRIME TIP

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Having issues with high grass, illegal parking, street repairs, or other Code Enforcement concerns in the community?  Contact 311!

Metro311 Service Request Information

  • Submit a Service Request in the online system.
  • 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.
  • The outlined or highlighted area on the map indicates the area which is serviced by Louisville Metro Government.
  • If you do not see a category which corresponds to your issue, please call Metro 311 at 311. 

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Greenburg

News from Mayor Greenburg and the City of Louisville

Mayor Greenberg’s $1.1 Billion Proposed Budget Puts Louisvillians First; Invests in Public Safety, Early Education, Affordable Housing

Proposed budget focuses on better serving the people of Louisville and investing in their future  

LOUISVILLE, KY (April 25, 2024) – To further see through his goal of building a safer, stronger and healthier Louisville, Mayor Craig Greenberg shared his $1.1 billion budget proposal that focuses on addressing the urgent priorities of residents from across the city: public safety, affordable housing, homelessness, early education, economic development, government services and quality of life.

In his Budget Address, Mayor Greenberg emphasized the need to continuously review how the city is implementing Louisville’s priorities by making strategic and bold investments, while also embracing efficiency, accountability and transparency. The proposed Budget comes as Louisville emerges from a period where American Rescue Plan funding helped fuel progress and following the historic investment of more than $700 million across our city by the Kentucky General Assembly. 

“Thanks to a strong economy, record investments, increased revenues and the responsible management of taxpayers’ dollars, Louisville is in a strong position to achieve meaningful progress on our priorities,” said Mayor Greenberg. “This budget required tough decisions, but decisions that will move our city forward in a new direction and benefit every single resident and neighborhood.”

The Mayor added that to better serve the people of Louisville and to fully implement our plans for improving safety, growing our economy and making bold, strategic investments, we must invest in skilled team members who are passionate, effective and dedicated to this work.

“We are in the service business, and we owe it to every family across Louisville to deliver excellence in the most basic – and most essential – government services through a well-paid, highly qualified team that is motivated to serve our community,” said the Mayor. “I feel confident the greatest investment we can make toward a safer, stronger and healthier Louisville is an investment in our people.”

To view Mayor Greenberg’s Budget Address, click here. The Metro Council will now review the Mayor’s budget and see it through a review process that includes hearings and a budget vote prior to July 1.

Public Safety

Mayor Greenberg is directing over $448 million to one of his most urgent priorities: making Louisville a safer city by decreasing violence and protecting more lives. In 2023, Louisville saw a decrease in homicides, non-fatal shootings and carjackings, and the Mayor is committed to continuing that progress.

“Far too many of our Louisville families have lost a loved one and had their worlds ripped apart by violence,” said Mayor Greenberg. “We must invest in the resources needed to identify the people taking part in these crimes so that we can get them off the streets, protect more lives and ultimately make Louisville a safer city.”

Funding will be used to boost public safety, with funding supporting new license plate readers and MetroWatch Cameras for the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), new technical search and rescue gear for the Louisville Fire Department (LFD) and upgrades to the emergency operations center. The Mayor also directed portions of funding to address current staff shortages in the area of public safety.

“First responders are there for Louisvillians during their greatest moments of need, and it’s essential we address the current shortages impacting our police officers, EMTs, firefighters and more,” said the Mayor. “The answer is clear: we must offer competitive salaries and bring their pay in line with areas throughout the region. These are the heroes who stand by Louisville, and we must stand up for them in return.”

The Mayor’s proposed budget makes historic investments in first responder contracts to close these gaps and recruit and retain more officers, EMTs, paramedics, firefighters and correctional officers.

From over 260 vacancies at LMPD to the need for more EMTs, Louisville must make first responder wages competitive and bring them in line with areas throughout the region to increase recruitment and retention.

“People who have skills also have choices. To make sure our families have a paramedic or other first responders available during their greatest moments of need, we need to pay these heroes what they deserve,” said Mayor Greenberg.

The budget also provides funding for more public safety equipment, consent decree monitoring, homicide investigations, new staff, firehouse repairs and more.

Affordable Housing and Homelessness

One critical component to Louisville’s growing economy is the need for more safe, affordable and quality housing. The Mayor’s proposed budget puts forward nearly $32 million to meet the ambitious goal of creating or preserving 15,000 units of affordable housing units across the city by 2027.

“Every Louisvillian deserves the safety and security that comes with a roof over their head and a clean, comfortable place to call home,” said the Mayor. “Affordable housing helps our people thrive, and it also benefits our economy and the health of our community. From creating more quality homes to finding ways to end homelessness, we are taking a holistic approach to finding real solutions to our biggest challenges.”

Mayor Greenberg highlighted his continued support for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund through one of the largest capital investments of $15 million.

Also recognized was the continued progress on Louisville’s Community Care Campus, a facility that will house more than 30 families affected by homelessness and provide medical services and more. The project received extra support from the Kentucky General Assembly, further pushing forward the project which will help end family street homelessness in Louisville.

The Mayor also committed his support to the Louisville Metro Housing Authority (LMHA) to help address the most urgent issues Dosker Manor and Avenue Plaza residents face through $238,000 in funding.  In addition, the Greenberg Administration will be working with LMHA for additional Section 8 vouchers.

“While LMHA is not a city department, we will not stand on the sidelines while some of our most vulnerable Louisvillians live and sleep in dangerous mold, bug and rodent filled apartments – it’s a disgrace,” said Mayor Greenberg. “Calls for a change have been made for years with growing urgency, and we’re working with our partners to make sure those calls are answered.”

Mayor Greenberg recognizes that addressing homelessness requires a long-term strategy, and his administration is actively working with community partners to establish programs that provide ongoing solutions. Programs being built include hotel stays for 18 to 24-year-olds transitioning to stable housing and case management and support services to individuals and families affected. The Mayor is also seeing through a goal to establish a shelter facility for individuals and families as well as the creation of 20 transitional housing options through the use of efficiency units or OVC huts.

Early Education

To simultaneously address Louisville’s urgent needs and long-term priorities, the Mayor remains focused on creating generational change through free universal pre-K for every 3- and 4-year-old across the city. The Mayor’s proposed budget includes a strong initial investment in Thrive by 5 Louisville, the 501c3 nonprofit the Mayor announced in March which will implement a five year plan to create a pathway to universal pre-K.

“The facts are clear: children who attend high-quality preschool are more likely to graduate from high school, earn more money, live longer and healthier lives and are 70 percent less likely to be arrested for violent crimes,” said the Mayor. “Our children are our greatest investment, and I am determined to support them early so we can all succeed together for generations to come.”  

Thrive By 5 Louisville will operate separately from Louisville Metro Government and JCPS, and use a combination of public and philanthropic funds to recruit and retain the early learning workforce, elevate early learning facilities and programs, and offer financial assistance to cover the cost of preschool. This initial $5 million investment from the Mayor’s proposed budget will help ensure the nonprofit has a strong platform from which to grow.”   

For more on Thrive by 5 Louisville, read the comprehensive FAQ

Quality of Life

When it comes to the quality of life of Louisvillians, Mayor Greenberg is focusing on the day-to-day needs of the community by proposing nearly $50 million for street paving, sidewalk repairs, guardrail replacements, traffic calming solutions and more. A portion of this funding will also go toward three projects to put our city on the path forward to finally completing the Louisville Loop.

“Making sure Louisville is a place people love to live is vital to our overall success and our growing economy, and by investing in the daily needs of our community, we are also investing in our people and our future,” said Mayor Greenberg. 

One of the reasons so many people love Louisville is because of our beautiful parks and the great outdoor options that enhance our city. To further enhance these spaces and experiences, the Mayor is committing over $7.1 million in general parks repairs.

The Mayor also stated that he is investing in the Public Works team members who are essential to the overall wellbeing of our city. 

“So often we go about our days taking for granted the key things we rely on. From safe streets to the streetlights at a local park, these services are dependent on the Public Works team members who keep our city moving,” said the Mayor. “We are going to increase pay for these essential team members to better recruit and retain more dedicated public servants. This is how we keep our city moving forward in the right direction.”

The Mayor’s proposed budget dedicates more than $2 million to raising salaries and funding operations for areas that include key personnel in Public Works, new library openings, a new Park Ranger program, the Baxter Community Center reopening and more. 

Economic Development

Mayor Greenberg celebrated Louisville’s strong economy, highlighting a commitment to build on the $1 billion secured in new investment last year and more than 2,300 jobs announced. The Mayor’s proposed budget supports ongoing economic capital projects, including the establishment of a new economic development authority proposed in the Growing Louisville Together plan.

“This authority will be a public-private partnership that works with Metro Government, GLI, KentuckianaWorks and other stakeholders to maximize our city’s potential to attract and develop business, partnerships and people more effectively than ever before,” said the Mayor.

As the Mayor closed his budget address, he thanked everyone for their support and service to Louisville and encouraged everyone to continue working together to create a safer, stronger and healthier city. 

For a complete version of Mayor Greenberg’s Budget Address, click here. Louisville can also view the address on MetroTV. To see a full list of accomplishments from 2023, click here.

Codes & Regulations begins registering property owners under new Rental Registry program; proactive inspections to begin June 1
Program requires all rental property owners to register with city

LOUISVILLE, KY (April 22, 2024) – The Department of Codes & Regulations has officially launched a new registry and inspection program for all rental properties within Louisville Metro. The Rental Registry program will serve as an essential tool to guarantee the safety, habitability, and overall wellbeing of citizens living in rental properties.

“I urge all rental property owners to be proactive and register your rental,” said Mayor Craig Greenberg. “You will not only be improving the quality of your own property investment, but also investing in the quality of our city and its wonderful residents.”

Under the Rental Registry program, property owners must register any and all of their rental properties with Louisville Metro Government, including providing up-to-date contact information for themselves and the responsible managing operator, if other than the owner. This will help Code Enforcement Officers contact the owner or maintenance personnel when property code violations are found. Additionally, the Rental Registry program will help maintain the city’s housing standards by conducting random and thorough inspections of registered properties.

“Starting June 1, we will be randomly selecting rental properties each year to proactively inspect so that we can find property issues early and work with property owners to fix them before they become a more significant problem. We encourage tenants to cooperate with our inspectors; we are here to help you,” said Richard Price, Director of Codes & Regulations.

All properties located in Louisville Metro and occupied solely by persons other than the registered owner, or offered for occupancy in exchange for money or any other consideration must be registered with Louisville Metro Government. Failure to register is subject to a citation of up to $100 per day per housing unit. Properties that are already registered under the previous Rental Registry must renew their registration and have begun receiving notices in the mail regarding their renewal requirement. Failure to renew within 30 days of receiving notice will result in a notice of violation from the Department of Codes & Regulations and may lead to additional citations or court action.

Each year following, property owners must pay a $50 annual renewal fee. However, properties that receive no ordinance violations over the prior 12 months will have this annual fee waived. This benefit aims to motivate property owners to be vigilant and resolve property issues before inspectors discover them.

All rental property owners must register by June 1. The Rental Registry ordinance was sponsored by Councilman Rick Blackwell of District 12, with co-sponsorship from Councilwoman Donna Purvis of District 5, and Councilman Jecorey Arthur of District 4.

“Neighbors have a right to know who is operating a business in their neighborhood. Rental registries acknowledge that rental properties are business ventures,” said Councilman Blackwell. “The new and improved rental registry adds greater transparency, accountability, and hopefully collaborative opportunities for long-term rental properties.”

For more information, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/codes-regulations/rental-registry.


louisville metro council

Louisville Metro Council News

Metro Council Budget Committee Announces Hearing Schedule for FY 2024-2025 Capital and Operating Budgets

LOUISVILLE, KY (April 25, 2024) – The Louisville Metro Council’s Budget Committee has released its schedule for reviewing Mayor Craig Greenberg’s recommended Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Capital and Operating Budgets.

The Committee will review the recommended budget during May and June, with budget hearings beginning the first full week of May. This year’s schedule includes twenty-one hearings and one community budget hearing specifically dedicated for public comment.

“Reviewing the city’s budget is not just about balancing numbers, it’s about prioritizing community needs, ensuring transparency, and spending tax dollars wisely. I urge residents to actively participate in this year’s budget process by voicing their opinions at the public hearing, or by submitting written feedback. I’m looking forward to collaborating with my colleagues to develop a budget that is both balanced and equitable,” said Councilman Rick Blackwell (D-12), Chair of the Committee.

“The Metro Council Budget Hearings have evolved over the years to become more efficient and focused. The upcoming hearings have been set based on what we have learned in the past and hopefully will set us up for even better work as we seek to address our community’s needs. I encourage anyone wanting to learn a little more about Metro to tune in and participate in one of the many avenues we offer to give comments on the budget proposal. Together we can create a document that will continue to help us address important goals such as increasing safety, addressing homelessness and improving infrastructure”, said Councilman Kevin Kramer (R-11), Vice Chair of the Committee.

Budget hearings are set to begin on Monday, May 6, at 4:00 p.m., with an overview of the recommended budget including a presentation on projected revenue, expenditures, capital, and debt, followed by a discussion by the Office of Management and Budget and Human Resources.

The FY 2024-2025 Recommended Executive Budget Document will be available online here: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/management-budget.

Public Input:

The public is encouraged to participate in the budget process by submitting public comment on the recommended budget. The online comment form is located on the Metro Council website, and a direct link is here: https://louisvilleky.wufoo.com/forms/m1ch63vw16xojrl/. The online form will close on Friday, June 7, at 5:00 p.m.

The community is also invited to attend the Community Budget Hearing scheduled for Thursday, May 23, at 6:00 p.m. This is an opportunity for the public to speak about the budget in-person in Metro Council Chambers on the third floor of City Hall, 601 W. Jefferson Street.

Speakers may sign up in-person at City Hall beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 23. Sign ups will be open for one hour and will close promptly at 6:00 p.m. Speakers will have up to three minutes to address the Council about the proposed budget.

Highlights from the Budget Hearing Schedule:

Tuesday, May 14

  • Economic Development at 4:15 p.m.

Monday, May 20

  • Louisville Free Public Library at 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, May 22

  • LMPD at 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, May 23

  • Community Budget Hearing at 6:00 p.m. (signups are required)

Wednesday, May 29

  • Emergency Services at 5:00 p.m.
  • Louisville Fire at 6:00 p.m.

Thursday, May 30

  • Parks & Recreation at 5:00 p.m.

The complete schedule of budget hearings is available online here: https://louisvilleky.gov/metro-council/document/fy25-budget-hearing-schedule-april-23-2024.

The Council will vote to adopt the FY 2024-2025 Budget on Thursday, June 20, at 6:00 p.m. during the regularly scheduled Metro Council meeting.

The public may watch the proceedings live on Spectrum Cable Channel 184, with Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV OTT Apps, or on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/LouisvilleMetroCouncil.

Metro Council Statements on Proposed Budget:

“The Council is vested with the responsibility to review the Mayor's proposed budget and create a blueprint for our city's future. We are ready to work for the next two months to meet this responsibility and respond to the diverse needs of those whom we serve.  I look forward to working with my colleagues and the administration to create a budget that meets these needs and allocates funding to our city's most urgent priorities,” said President Markus Winkler (D-17).

“I am looking forward to conducting a deep dive of the budget to determine if the priorities of the Greenberg Administration are compatible with the concerns of the community relating to public safety, infrastructure improvements, and housing,” said Councilwoman Dr. Paula McCraney (D-7), Majority Caucus Chair.

"A city's budget is a city's priorities. Louisvillians should participate in the budget process to be informed, be involved, and help our city be intentional about meeting the people's needs," said Councilman Jecorey Arthur (I-4).

Metro Council meeting highlights for Thursday, April 25

Below is a recap of the regularly scheduled Metro Council meeting

LOUISVILLE, KY (April 25, 2024) – The Louisville Metro Council held their regularly scheduled Council meeting tonight after Mayor Craig Greenberg’s Budget Address. Here are some of the highlights from the meeting.

Mayor Greenberg’s FY 2024-2025 Budget Address

Old Business

  • R-030-24: a resolution updating the Standard Design Guidelines for Landmarks.
  • R-033-24: a resolution approving the funding for the Office of Philanthropy to hire a consultant to administer workshops for early childhood development programs.
  • R-036-24: a resolution renaming South Central Park to Taylor Berry Park.
  • R-037-24: a resolution ratifying and approving a collective bargaining agreement relating to wages, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment between Louisville Metro Government and the River City Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No 614, Police Officers, and Sergeants.
  • R-038-24: a resolution ratifying and approving a collective bargaining agreement relating to wages, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment between Louisville Metro Government and the River City Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No 614, Lieutenants, and Captains.
  • Five ordinances changing the zoning at 609 Outer Loop, 11801 East Orell Road, 1116 Logan Street, 5401, 5405, and 5411 New Cut Road, and 10309 Cedar Creek Road.

Special Recognitions and Proclamations

  • The Council recognized the Louisville Orchestra’s Music Director Teddy Abrams for his musical accomplishments.

Consent Calendar – all items passed unanimously

  • O-065-24: an ordinance amending the sixth round of ARP funding pertaining to the Foreclosure Funding Project (LAT-0098) by expanding the radius of work and adding clear boarding and demolition as eligible expenses.
  • R-032-24: a resolution accepting $100,000 from the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention for the Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity grant program to detect, respond to, control, and prevent infectious diseases.
  • R-034-24: a resolution honoring retired Lt. Col. Daniel D. Jones by dedicating the Old Heady Road Bridge over Interstate 265.
  • R-035-24: a resolution honoring Shedrick Jones, Sr. by dedicating the corner of Cemetery Drive and Hale Avenue in his honor.
  • O-072-24: an ordinance repealing Section 153.04 of LMCO regarding Category 3 Reviews in the Portland Neighborhood.

Held at Council

  • R-007-24: resolution urging the United States Congress and President to facilitate a ceasefire in Palestine and Israel.

Tonight’s Council meeting and attachments may be viewed online here: https://louisvilleky.primegov.com/public/portal, and on the Louisville Metro Council Facebook Page here: https://www.facebook.com/LouisvilleMetroCouncil/.

The next regularly scheduled Council meeting is on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.


Health & Wellness Logo

Public Health and Wellness News

Public Health and Wellness works to prevent illness and promote safety ahead of Kentucky Derby 150

Before it’s off to the races for Kentucky Derby 150, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) is hard at work behind the scenes, preparing for the large influx of people from around the country and world. From inspecting hotels and restaurants, tracking infectious diseases and preparing for emergency situations, LMPHW is taking a proactive stance to prevent illness and making sure facilities are clean and free of health and safety hazards.  

Hotel inspections  

Before Louisville Metro sees scores of visitors, LMPHW’s Public Facilities team inspects hotels and motels to make sure lodging areas are being well maintainedand complying with state regulations. More than 130 hotels are permitted in the city and are inspected annually. Inspectors check to see if bedding and furniture are clean and that emergency equipment, like fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, is in working order. They are also on the lookout for any imminent public health hazards, like sewage or lack of water service.  

LMPHW’s Public Facilities team encourages guests to investigate their rooms for cleanliness and strip the beds to check for bedbugs before unpacking.  Complaints can be made by calling Metro311 and including the hotel name and room number.

Food safety  

Public Health and Wellness food safety inspectors are extremely busy this time of year. They perform more than 300 food safety inspections in preparation for and during Kentucky Derby events. Their job is to verify food safety knowledge, check for good hygienic practices, make sure food is cooked and stored at the right temperatures and make sure cross-contamination is being prevented.  

“Foodborne illness can lead to serious health problems,” said Connie Mendel, Louisville’s interim chief health strategist. “Good hygienic practices can help prevent people from getting sick. That’s why we always stress the importance of washing your hands often with soap and water, especially before and after handling or eating food and using the restroom.”   

Emergency preparedness  

LMPHW’s Public Health Preparedness (PHP) team is present in the city’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during Kentucky Derby festivities including Thunder, the Pegasus Parade, Oaks and Derby. Members are trained and ready to respond to public health threats or emergencies in coordination with local, state, and federal first responders and partners.  

“Our Public Health Preparedness team responds to anything from winter storms, extreme heat, flooding, disease outbreaks and bioterrorism attacks. We also spend time educating the community on the importance of creating an emergency plan for themselves and their family,” said Paul Kern PHP administrator at LMPHW

The Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) response team at LMPHW also has members on call 24/7 who are prepared to respond to any incidents andcoordinate with local and federal response agencies.

nurturer training summit

Office of Resilience and Community Services logo

Office of Resilience and Community Services News

LIHEAP SPRING SUBSIDY STARTS

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.

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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.


Parks small

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.”

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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.


Louisville Metro seal

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:

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.

Middle Housing Open House Events

middle housing 2024

newburg pastor

Newburg pastor offers solution to ongoing violent crime in Louisville area

By ; originally appearing on WDRB.

LOUISVILLE, KY (April 25, 2024 - WDRB) -- There have already been nearly 50 murders in Metro Louisville this year.

A Newburg pastor believes we can find solutions to the ongoing violence.

The senior pastor at Newburg Church of Christ says one of the solutions is teaching men in the church and out in the community how to be great again.

Tuesday, a man was shot to death in broad daylight at a corner grocery store in the Parkland neighborhood.

"A lot of men and boys don't have that godly figure as a man of that male presence in their homes," Rev. Bryan Jones said.

Wednesday, a man is found shot to death inside a car in downtown Louisville.

"I've had to do far too many funerals than I wanted to do," Jones said.

Jones is a senior pastor at Newburg Church of Christ on Indian Trail and has helped navigate a lot of families through the heartache left behind by the violence.

"And it was all young people, violence, shootings, those kinds of things certainly unfortunate," Jones said.

While police and city leaders look for solutions to the violence, Jones believes he has found at least one remedy.

"And I've been for the last five years putting together my thoughts to try to get men back to the manufacturer of humanity so that he can fix us up," Jones said.

Jones recently authored a book titled "Making a Man Great Again."

"What we've been trying to do is train boys in that dangerous age from 10 to 18," Jones said.

One Saturday a month, the church hosts "Impact Training."

"And we just teach them how to speak," Jones said. "Teach them how to think, teach them how to reason, and just teach them so that they can have some principles to go by when making decisions in this world."

"It used to be one shooting a week or one shooting a month. Now it's three and four day that's very concerning," Shannon Pearson, who has loved ones that are police officers, said.

Pearson is the wife, daughter and mother of police officers but she still has concerns about the ongoing violence.

"People don't think about the other side of it, the people who are protecting, they need to be protected as well sometimes," Pearson said. "So I'm concerned about the people who are protecting us."

"Actually one of our men who's going to be speaking is a warden for a youth prison," Jones said.

Meanwhile, Jones uses guest speakers to help get his message to the youth.

"And he's going to be telling them about some of the dangers of making the wrong decisions," Jones said.

The next impact training session is here at Newburg Church of Christ on Saturday at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.


Transportation Improvement Projects Dashboard

Transportation Improvement Projects Dashboard

The Transportation Improvement Projects Dashboard is a tool to provide insight into projects that improve the transportation network throughout Louisville Metro.

This dashboard shows two different types of projects:

  1. Current Projects that have received funding and are working towards construction.
  2. 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.


dumping

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.

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Help Stop Illegal Dumping!

  • 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.

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  • Choose not to litter. Make a commitment to always dispose of your trash properly and set an example for others.
  • Report litter concerns to Metro311. Report online, call 311 or 574-5000, email metro.311@louisvilleky.gov, or tweet @LouMetro311.
  • Understand litter laws in Louisville Metro. Share this information with others.
  • If you see litter, pick it up! People tend to litter more in already littered areas.
  • Report a litterer online now.
  • Organize a neighborhood cleanup. Brightside offers resources for your group. 
  • 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.

Solid waste web pages of note:

www.Louisvilleky.gov/Recycling or www.Louisvilleky.gov/RecycleMore (both go to Recycling page)

www.Louisvilleky.gov/RecycleCoach (Recycle Coach web app)

www.Louisvilleky.gov/IllegalDumping

www.Louisvilleky.gov/BulkyWaste

www.Louisvilleky.gov/YardWaste

www.Louisvilleky.gov/HazBin

www.Louisvilleky.gov/WRC (Waste Reduction Center)

www.Louisvilleky.gov/Electronics

www.Louisvilleky.gov/Garbage

www.Louisvilleky.gov/RecycleMap (map of recycling drop-off locations)

pop up drop off may 2024

Street Light

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.


LMPD logo

LMPD News

Sign up for the LMPD 6th Division Newsletter!

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!

6th Division map
lmpd event may 2024 1
lmpd event may 2024 2
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Louisville Metro Seal

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).   
  • Gas line leaks.

For further information contact Office of Housing at 574-5850 or homerepair@louisvilleky.gov.


Food Pantry

'Dare to Care' Food Pantries open in District 2

  • 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

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.


Louisville Metro Seal

***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
  • Louisville Forward/Economic Development: (502) 574-4140
  • Master Commissioner Jefferson Circuit Court (Foreclosure Sales): (502) 753-4888
  • Mayor Craig Greenburg: (502) 574-2003
  • Metro311: 311 or (502) 574-5000
  • Metro Parks: (502) 456-8100
  • Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD): (502) 540-6000
  • MetroSafe: (502) 572-3460 or (502) 574-7111
  • PARC: (502) 569-6222
  • Planning & Design Services: (502) 574-6230
  • Property Valuation Administrator (PVA): (502) 574-6380
  • Public Works: (502) 574-5810
  • Solid Waste Management (SWMS): (502) 574-3571
  • TARC: (502) 585-1234
  • United States Senator Rand Paul: (270) 782-8303
  • Vacant & Public Property Administration: (502) 574-4016
  • Your State Representative or State Senatorhttp://www.lrc.ky.gov 

District 2 Archived Newsletter PageClick here


fork

Don't know what to make for dinner?  Try our semimonthly recipe suggestion!

Today's recipe comes from allrecipes.com and can be found here.

Golden Butter Rice

Prep/Cook:  35 mins.

Yield:  8 servings

Ingredient Checklist

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter

- 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger

- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground turmeric

- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

- 1 tablespoon brown sugar

- 1 teaspoon fine salt

- 2 cups basmati rice or other long grain white rice

- 3 cups water

- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

- 1/3 cup sliced green onions (optional)

Instructions Checklist

- Melt butter in a pan or pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat. As soon as butter starts to bubble, add in ginger, turmeric, cayenne, brown sugar, and salt. Cook, whisking, for 1 minute.

- Add rice, and stir until every grain is coated with butter. Stir in water, and bring to a boil over high heat. As soon as it begins to boil, gently shake and swirl the pan to settle rice into an even layer, then reduce heat to medium-low.

- Cover tightly and simmer for 15 minutes. Turn off heat, and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes. DO NOT lift the lid or try to stir yet.

- Now, remove the lid and use a fork to fluff and separate rice grains. Season to taste, and serve immediately, garnished with walnuts and green onions.