A Note from CM Reno-Weber

As we embrace the season of spooky stories and eerie nights, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the real fears that challenge us—like public safety, homelessness, and housing. These issues can feel overwhelming, but like things that go bump in the night, the only way forward is to confront them directly.

This year, we’ve made progress in several fronts. Expanded foot patrols and targeted police surges have improved safety, as evidenced by significant reductions in overall crime cited in LMPD's recent newsletter, but recent shootings in the Fifth Division remind us that more work house lies ahead. The 24/7 Deflection Program, now citywide and 24 hours, is helping police focus on crime prevention by dispatching health workers to non-criminal emergencies.

Homelessness and housing remain persistent challenges, but we’re taking steps in the right direction. The Community of Care campus, opening in early 2025, will provide vital support to those experiencing street homelessness, and our office continues to push for additional funding to support the Coalition for the Homeless's strategy.

Meanwhile, we continue to push for enforcement of problem short-term rentals, leading to citations of several properties and at least one license revocation. 

And speaking of things that go bump in the night, on November 4th, we invite you to join a listening session on noise along Bardstown Road, helping us strike the right balance between vibrant nightlife and livable neighborhoods.

Addressing road infrastructure is another priority. Record demand for speed bumps this year shows that our residents understand the importance of safe streets. Though not all requests can be met immediately, we are committed to a transparent and fair process. By 2025, we will also have new trails and crosswalks will better connect parks and neighborhoods, and we’re working to improve the built environment to keep our streets safe and accessible.

Scary challenges like these can feel daunting—but by facing them together, we create opportunities for growth and connection. Even with more double the volume of constituent inquiries compared to the next most engaged district, we’ve kept our response time under 48 hours, and we remain committed to being accessible by phone, email, or in person. Some problems may feel scary at first, but when we confront them as a community, they become just another step forward toward a better, stronger District 8.

Ben and the D8 team

Don't forget to read to the end for the punchline to this month's dad joke: 

What’s a mummy’s favorite type of music?

Around D8

Bon Air Neighborhood Association Our team had a great time at the Bon Air Neighborhood Association meeting! Always a pleasure to hear directly from the community about the issues that matter most—whether it's public safety, parks, or improving walkability.

Give Blood this Fall Even blood-suckers can do good!  Giving blood is a simple act that can save lives, providing critical support for patients in emergencies, surgeries, and chronic conditions. Every donation helps ensure hospitals have the supply they need, making a real difference in your community. Don’t let the vampires have all the fun—give blood and be someone’s hero this Halloween!

Tyler Park Neighborhood Association Meeting

Our team had a great time at the annual Tyler Park Neighborhood Association Meeting, reflecting on key priorities like public safety, homelessness, infrastructure, parks, and constituent services. 

What's Bubbling Up?

Upcoming Events & Opportunities to Engage

LMPD Trunk or Treat Looking for a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween? Join LMPD’s 5th Division for Trunk or Treat on Thursday, October 31st, from 5-8 PM at 2301 Douglass Blvd. This free event will feature decorated trunks filled with candy, activity stations, and face painting for the kids. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy some festive fun and connect with neighbors in a safe, welcoming environment. We hope to see you there in your best costumes!

Food Vision 2030 Food Vision 2030 is a community-driven plan to build a healthy, equitable, and sustainable food system for Louisville. Developed with input from local farmers, activists, and educators, the initiative focuses on improving food access, supporting independent businesses, and promoting environmental justice. Through partnerships across the city, we can create a resilient food system that benefits everyone. Learn more here.

Fall Leaves and Street Sweeping Mulching leaves into your lawn helps reduce waste and nourishes your grass. Please never blow leaves into the street—leaves clog drains and create hazards. If you see street-sweeping signs, move your car so crews can properly clear leaves from the roadway. Let’s work together to keep our streets clean and our city beautiful this fall! Make sure you’re in the know by signing up for text alerts at louisvilleky.gov. On your scheduled day, move your vehicle off the street between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to avoid tickets or towing. For more details or to check the sweeping schedule in your area, visit louisvilleky.gov street sweeping

PFAS Awareness The PFAS Awareness event on October 28, 2024, hosted by groups like the Floyds Fork Environmental Association and the League of Women Voters of Louisville, will explore the impact of harmful “forever chemicals.” The program features segments from GenX: The Saga of Forever Chemicals, produced by Mark Ruffalo, and a keynote by Rob Bilott, the attorney known for his fight against DuPont, as portrayed in Dark Waters. Dr. Clara Sears from UofL will also speak on PFAS effects on maternal and child health. The event will run from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at Lang House and on Zoom, encouraging public engagement on PFAS contamination and policy solutions.

Highlands Hero

We are so excited to share this month’s Highland Hero, Charles Brian McAdams, Ph.D. Dr. Adams was nominated for his work dedicated to improving the lives of unhoused people, his advocacy for public spaces and public transportation, and for embodying the commitment he has to his community.  A 12-year highland resident, Dr. Adams has enjoyed watching his children grow up in this community. His biggest recommendation is to enjoy the neighborhood on foot or on bicycle, as much as you are able. He hopes that the Highlands becomes even more of a place that embraces all people. Dr. Adams, we are so thankful for the work you do for our community and for serving as an example for us all. Do you know a Highlands Hero? Nominate them here!

Dad Joke of the Month

What’s a mummy’s favorite type of music?

Wrap music

Councilmember Ben Reno-Weber  |   Louisville Metro Council   |   District 8

601 West Jefferson Street, Third Floor

Louisville, Kentucky 40202

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