And if you still have items on your list after Small Business Saturday, Louisville Downtown Partnership is hosting its annual Downtown Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event is in collaboration with Louisville Metro’s annual Light Up Louisville and will transform the Plaza on Fourth, between Jefferson and Market Streets, with a unique outdoor, pop-up shopping and food vendor market in the heart of Louisville. This festive event offers a unique opportunity for the community to shop local, support small businesses, and enjoy the holiday spirit in a vibrant downtown setting.

Louisville Metro launching Affordable Housing Lien Forgiveness Pilot Program

Monday, Mayor Craig Greenberg announced the launch of an important program that will help create safe, quality, affordable housing, while improving the safety and health of neighborhoods.

The goal for this program is to create newly renovated, affordable homes and support the redevelopment of vacant and blighted residential structures through the forgiveness of code enforcement liens. The intention of this pilot program is to increase housing stock by rehabilitating vacant and abandoned structures, promote homeownership for low-to-moderate income families, while encouraging reinvestment in local neighborhoods. This pilot program also includes important guard rails to ensure that residents are protected and empowered to build stronger futures in the neighborhoods they love and call home.

“Affordable housing is one of the pillars of our administration’s goal to promote a safer, healthier, and stronger Louisville. This new program is another essential step toward our goal to create 15,000 affordable housing units across our city,” said Mayor Greenberg. “As we created the ‘My Louisville Home’ plan, one of the strategies we identified was to implement a lien forgiveness program. This will relieve the financial burden for families looking to sell a property and remove a costly barrier for buyers looking to redevelop a home.”

The Affordable Housing Lien Forgiveness Pilot Program established through the Mayor’s My Louisville Home Plan will:

• Create homeownership opportunities throughout the Louisville Metro area for low-to-moderate income families;
• Revitalize neighborhoods that are being harmed by vacant and abandoned properties;
• Provide an opportunity for residents to unlock the value of a home they may have inherited and cannot afford to maintain; and
• Support local homeownership and generational wealth building by preventing out-of-state developers from buying these properties.

Many vacant and abandoned homes have thousands of dollars in liens as a result of regular code enforcement activities through Metro’s Department of Codes & Regulations.  A significant number of these properties are presumed to be abandoned. Currently, the city uses legal tools, such as foreclosure, to collect the fines and facilitate the return of the properties to responsible ownership.

There are instances when an owner or heir can be contacted, but due to liens placed on the property, they are not in a financial position to sell or rehab the home. For those, this pilot program can make a difference. Lien forgiveness can facilitate private market property transfer, unlock the value of a home, and save city resources for truly abandoned properties.

To qualify for the program, applicants must be Kentucky residents or registered Kentucky businesses that are majority-owned by Kentucky residents. Additionally, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• All other debt attached to property must be settled, including delinquent property taxes.
• The applicant must have a plan of rehab, budget, timeline, and proof of funds.
• Property must be considered vacant for one year by the Department of Codes and Regulations.
• Rehab must take place within a one-year timeframe.
• The applicant must either occupy the home as their primary residence or agree to sell or rent the property to an income-eligible household.
• If selling, property must be sold at or below a home-value limit determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
• If renting, property must be rented at or below HUD-determined allowable rent limits for a 10-year period.

Each application will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and checks are put in place to ensure compliance. This includes the timely completion of repairs and properties are rented or sold to income-eligible households.

The Office of House and Community Development (OHCD) will be responsible for implementing this pilot program. OHCD Director Laura Grabowski says this program can be one step toward transforming neighborhoods.

“There are more than a thousand vacant and abandoned homes across the city, with most concentrated in west Louisville neighborhoods. We have witnessed firsthand how one rehabilitated home can uplift the neighbors around them,” said Grabowski. “This program supports more homeownership for low-to-moderate income families, creates generational wealth, and promotes reinvestment in neighborhoods. By taking boarded-up, empty homes, and bringing families back, communities will be improved and revitalized.”

Many of the vacant and abandoned properties are in areas that were impacted by redlining, which means that some homebuyers could be eligible for REVERT program funds. REVERT was approved by Metro Council in 2022 to provide homeownership opportunities for families disproportionately impacted by redlining in previously redlined areas. The Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund is still accepting applications for the REVERT program.

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) is another important program operated by Louisville Metro’s Office of Housing and Community Development. DPA provides low-to-moderate income homebuyers with down payment and closing cost assistance in purchasing a home in the Louisville Metro area. Mayor Greenberg recently proposed allocating $1.5 million of Louisville’s budget surplus for DPA.

The lien forgiveness program is expected to launch December 2, and the pilot will consist of approximately 100 homes.

There is a path forward for homeowners facing liens that don’t qualify for the pilot. They can contact the Louisville Metro Office of Management and Budget to go through the standard lien reduction/waiver program. Owners may also request property tax payment plans through the Jefferson County Attorney’s office.

For more information about the Affordable Housing Lien Forgiveness Pilot Program, visit the Office of Housing and Community Development’s website.

Help sponsor remembrance wreaths at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery

On December 14 at noon, KY0152 - Corn Island Chapter, NSDAR will be helping Zachary Taylor National Cemetery to Remember and Honor our veterans by laying Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes.

Please help us honor and remember as many fallen heroes as possible by sponsoring remembrance wreaths, volunteering on Wreaths Day, or inviting your family and friends to attend with you.

Each wreath is $17, and they are still in need of thousands of wreaths. The last day to purchase a wreath is December 5, and the ceremony is on December 14 at noon. 

https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/164844/Overview/?relatedId=14839

‘Tis the season to bring hope to homeless pets! The BISSELL Foundation's Empty the Shelters™ – Holiday Hope event takes place December 1 to 17!

Our nation’s animal shelters are facing an overcrowding crisis unlike anything we have experienced in more than a decade. To help as many pets as possible go from shelter kennels to the couches of loving homes, BISSELL Pet Foundation's Empty the Shelters-Holiday Hope will offer reduced-fee adoptions, usually $50 or less, at 20 shelters throughout Kentucky. Louisville-area locations include:

• Animal Care Society
• Kentucky Humane Society
• Louisville Metro Animal Services

For a complete list of places participating in the Empty the Shelters campaign, click here.

LFPL’s Polar Express Pajama Party returns to the Southwest Regional Library  

Experience some holiday magic as the annual Polar Express Pajama Party pulls in to the station at the Southwest Regional Library, 9725 Dixie Highway, on Friday, December 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. Kids can come dressed in their pajamas and enjoy free games, crafts, and activities for the whole family. 

There will be a reading of The Polar Express, followed by a screening of the movie. Children can also get their picture taken with Mrs. Claus, Elsa from Frozen, and the Polar Express conductor; enjoy a cookie and hot chocolate pit stop; and get a free book of their very own. For more information about this after-hours event for children and families, call 933-0029.

By offering free access to quality early learning opportunities, like the Polar Express Pajama Party, the Louisville Free Public Library promotes literacy and helps to inspire a lifetime of reading and learning. For more information about the Library and its services, visit LFPL.org.

December 5 - Public Hearing regarding amendments to the Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan (PLAN 2040)

The public is invited to attend a public hearing for amendments to the Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan (PLAN 2040). The Planning Commission meeting is December 5 at 514 West Liberty Street (Old Jail Building) starting at 1 p.m. The amendments are: 

24-LDC-0002: Housing & Mixed Use Development Study

Amendment to Comprehensive Plan (Plan 2040) to include the Housing & Mixed Use Development Study Executive Summary and Analysis Map. Case Manager is Rachel Casey (rachel.casey@louisvilleky.gov).

24-LDC-0009: Neighborhood Meeting Requirements for Revised Development Plans

Text amendment to the Land Development Code related to neighborhood meeting requirements for revised development plans. Case Manager is Joel Dock (joel.dock@louisvilleky.gov).

24-LDC-0011: Zoning Enforcement Improvements

Text amendment to the Land Development Code related to the process for enforcing the regulations of the Land Development Code. Case Manager is Joseph Haberman (joseph.haberman@louisvilleky.gov). 

For more information, scan the code above or call 574-6230.

Louisville Metro Council Holiday Food Drive - please donate through December 5 at various locations

This holiday season, the Louisville Metro Council is calling on the community to come together and make a difference by donating food and essential items to those in need.

Through a city-wide donation initiative, the Council is partnering with the Association of Community Ministries (ACM) to address food insecurity and support families across Louisville.

The donation drive runs through Thursday, December 5, with donations being distributed to ACM and shared equally among the thirteen community ministries serving the city.

The most needed items are canned proteins (beef stew, canned chicken/tuna, and hearty soups), tomato sauce, canned fruit, jelly, and cereal. ACM will also be accepting household items including shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, toilet paper, menstruation products, etc.

Donations can be made online at: www.louisvilleministries.org/.

See a full list of donation sites. For more information, call 574-1192 or scan the code above. 

LIHEAP Subsidy enrollment open for eligible households

Low Income Heating Assistance Subsidy enrollment is now available through Kentucky’s Community Action Network for eligible Kentucky households. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis through December 20, or until designated funds have been expended.

LIHEAP Fall Subsidy provides households with a one-time benefit depending on housing category, fuel type used for heating, and income level. The benefit can be applied towards home heating costs for electric, natural gas, propane, coal, wood, or fuel oil.

Benefits are paid directly to the household's energy vendor. Prior LIHEAP assistance does not impact a household’s eligibility. Households must meet eligibility requirements, including income eligibility of up to and including 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

In Jefferson County, LIHEAP Fall Subsidy is available through the Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services. Appointments are required in advance to apply.

How to apply

A toll-free automated appointment system is now available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to schedule an in-person appointment at one of seven locations. The automated scheduler will provide details about these locations as well as eligibility and required documentation.

Jefferson County residents meeting eligibility can call the automated scheduler at 991-8391 or visit online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com

Take the City-wide four-week Anti-Racism Challenge sponsored by Listen Learn Act!  

How it works: For four weeks beginning January 3, participants will receive a weekly email with a list of 10-12 anti-racism activities. We ask participants to complete three of the activities over the course of the week. It is purely personal; you don't report to anyone. By regularly participating in anti-racism activities, we naturally develop better habits of noticing and challenging racism in our daily lives. Sign up here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/cADwZWv

Volunteer with VITA through LABC and make a difference this tax season!

This tax season, you can help change lives. The Louisville Asset Building Coalition (LABC) is looking for volunteers to support the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) free tax preparation program. Volunteer opportunities are available for greeters, tax preparers, and reviewers at locations throughout the city. 

By volunteering, you're not just helping people file their taxes - you're helping families keep more of their hard-earned money, create financial stability, and build a brighter future. Your time and skills can make a real difference in someone's life.

Sign up today and join us in making a meaningful impact!

Leaf drop off available for residents through December 7

Mowing over leaves to mulch them back into your lawn is a great option for reducing waste. Mulching not only returns vital nutrients to the soil, but experts say that it can help your grass grow even better the following year!

Never blow leaves into the street! If you see Street Sweeping signs posted on your street, please make sure to move your vehicle so any leaves that fell naturally on the street can be properly cleaned. 

The Metro Public Works free leaf drop-off sites are open Tuesday-Saturdays through December 7.  Only leaves will be accepted. Leaves can be loose, in paper/compostable bags, or reusable containers. Containers used to bring leaves to the drop-off sites must be taken back by residents.

• Public Works Yard, 10500 Lower River Road (enter from Bethany Lane), Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Public Works East District Operations Center, 595 N Hubbards Lane, Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Shawnee Park, 230 Southwestern Parkway (Athletic Complex), Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Waste Reduction Center, 636 Meriwether Avenue, Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This service is for residents ONLY and not for businesses.

Remember the Camp Taylor Elementary School pantry as you shop

Tiffany Bolling from the Family Resource Center has reached out to request food donations for the school pantry at Camp Taylor Elementary School. 

Not only do we feed our students and their families at Camp Taylor and Audubon Traditional Elementary Schools, we also have a food pantry in front of the school to feed the community. 

Our pantry is usually stocked through Dare to Care, but the food goes so quickly. Our homeless demographic has doubled from last school year. I am trying to keep up with the nutritional support I can provide, but it's a struggle.

If you are able to assist in getting us food to fill our pantry, donations can be sent to: Camp Taylor Elementary School, The Kid Connection FRC, 1446 Belmar Drive, Louisville, KY, 40213. 

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

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

Reminder of leash law for all public dog walkers

District 10 events

Events at Highlands-Shelby Park Library

Teen Chess Club, Monday, December 2, 3 to 5 p.m. Never played? A tournament veteran? A casual player? All skill levels are welcome. We'll teach you the basics of the game, general strategy, popular moves, advanced rules, and how to record your games. And we'll play lots of chess! Ages 10-19. Nonfiction Book Group, Tuesday, December 3, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Empire of deception: the incredible story of a master swindler who seduced a city and captivated a nation by Dean Jobb. It was a time of unregulated madness. At the dawn of the Roaring Twenties a charismatic lawyer named Leo Koretz enticed hundreds of people to invest in phantom timberland and nonexistent oil wells in Panama. When Leo's scheme finally collapsed in 1923 an international manhunt began that lasted almost a year. Kid's Club, Tuesday, December 3, 3:30 to 5 p.m. Drop in every Tuesday for .some afternoon fun. Each week will be a different activity. Crafts, board games, LEGOs and more! Ages 4-10.  Beginning Bridge Lessons with Sandy Spears, Tuesday, December 3, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Sharpen your bridge by learning Stayman/Transfers, preemptive bids, doubles of many types, overcalls, and general competitive bidding. Call 574-1672 to enroll in this 12 week course. Taught by ACBL certified Bridge Teacher Sandy Spears. Teen Post Up, Tuesday, December 3, 6 to 8 p.m. Join us at the Outpost for a weekly night of board games, video games, and snacks! Ages 10-19.  Teen Art Club, Wednesday, December 4, 3 to 5 p.m. Join us as we envision and create! Different mediums will be explored every month, including painting, collaging, clay sculpting, and more! Ages 10-19.  Evening Book Discussion, Wednesday, December 4, 6 to 8 p.m. The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens. Joe Talbert has finally left home, but not without guilt over leaving his autistic brother in the care of his unreliable mother. A college assignment gets the young man entangled in a cold case, racing to clear the name of a dying Vietnam veteran. Baby Storytime, Thursday, December 5, 10:15 to 11 a.m. A storytime for developing pre-literacy skills and a love of reading through books, songs, movement and activities. Ages 0-24 months. Combined Storytime, Thursday, December 5, 11:15 to noon. A storytime for developing pre-literacy skills and a love of reading through books, songs, movement and activities. Ages 2-4. Teen Lounge, Thursday, December 5, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Come play games, watch movies and even use Oculus VR! Teen Lounge is a time to hang out, have fun, and try something new. Ages 10-19. Teen Writer's Club has been canceled.  Embellished Glass Plates, Saturday, December 7, 2 to 3 p.m. Embellish and layer clear plastic dishes to mimic decorative glass. All materials provided. Fill them with holiday treats and gift them!

Bring a can, save on admission during Wild Winter Days at the Louisville Zoo

Join the Louisville Zoo and Kroger in supporting Dare to Care Food Bank and local conservation efforts this winter

The Louisville Zoo invites guests to celebrate Wild Winter Days through February 28. Wild Winter Days offers discounted admission to the Zoo and incorporates a food drive for Dare to Care Food Bank.

Guests who bring at least one non-perishable food item per person may purchase discounted tickets at the Zoo ticket windows for $10.50 per adult and $7.50 per child or senior. Twenty-five cents of every admission ticket will also support the Zoo’s conservation efforts.

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

Dare to Care Food Bank’s most needed items include canned meats like tuna and chicken, as well as canned fruit and vegetables, beans, peanut butter, soup, rice, cereal, fruit juice, and pasta. No glass containers. More details on items of need are available at daretocare.org.

The discount is available only at the gate and cannot be applied to online purchases, special fee-based programs, prepaid groups, field trips or other discounts. No refunds will be provided for tickets purchased online or in advance. While multiple canned good items per person are appreciated, only one discount applies per ticket. 

Louisville Nature Center

Louisville Nature Center Events - view complete list

Owl Prowl, December 7, $15. (Both November dates have sold out)

Holly and Ivy, December 14, from $30. Make this holiday event a tradition with your family and friends. Enjoy hot chocolate and snacks while making your own wreath, swags and table decorations from live greenery. Ribbons, gloves, and wire cutters are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own tools.

The Louisville Nature Center has opened registration for the Valentine's Candlelit Hike February 13, 14, and 15.  Let candles light your way as you stroll underneath the stars this Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day.  Hike at your leisure, either on the candlelit short trail (about 3/4 mile), or the unlit longer trail (1 3/4 mile). Warm up around the fire afterward, or head indoors, where you can visit our reptiles and enjoy snacks and drinks. Participants must be 21 and over. The hikes will be 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Register online.

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

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

Louisville Metro events

Step back in time with Blackacre’s Holiday House Tours and Candlelight Tour - Holiday House Tours continue December 1

This holiday season, Blackacre Nature Preserve & Historic Homestead invites the community to experience the magic of a 19th-century Christmas through its Holiday House Tours and special Candlelight Tour. Sponsored by Kentucky Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities, these events immerse guests in the traditions, music, and customs of the past.

Holiday House Tours will be December 1 and 15 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Candlelight Tour will be December 21 from 5 to 8 p.m.

With both events, visitors will explore the beautifully adorned 1844 Presley Tyler House, guided by knowledgeable docents dressed in period attire. Each room highlights a unique Christmas carol from the era, with decor inspired by the lyrics and themes of these classic holiday songs. As guests tour the home, they’ll gain insight into the holiday traditions that brought 19th-century Kentucky families and communities together, including tree decorating, gift-giving, and festive gatherings. 

The Candlelight Tour provides a more immersive evening experience. In the historic 1795 Stone Cottage, guests will enjoy live pioneer-era music performed by the Quintrilogy string trio and watch dancers in traditional attire demonstrate and teach dances from the period. This candlelit setting, complete with traditional refreshments and an interactive 19th-century craft, offers an enchanting and educational glimpse into holiday celebrations of the past.

Suggested donation for Holiday House Tours is $7.50 per person or $15 per family, and for Candlelight Tours is $10 per person or $20 per family. 

Country Christmas 

December 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., is the most exciting event of the year - Country Christmas! Step back in time on the 18th century homestead with farm animals and enjoy a nostalgic day of family fun activities

About Blackacre Conservancy: Blackacre’s 280-acre nature preserve and historic homestead were donated by Judge Macauley L. Smith and Emilie Strong Smith for the people of Kentucky. The preserve offers visitors a chance to experience early American life through its homestead tours, trails, farm animals, and historic buildings. Blackacre’s mission is to promote environmental education, conservation, and preservation of Kentucky’s cultural heritage. Learn more at  www.VisitBlackacre.org

December 4 - Next Nutcracker Family Storytime with Louisville Ballet and Louisville Free Public Library

Louisville Ballet and the Louisville Free Public Library present Nutcracker Family Storytimes, through December 5, at select LFPL locations. The annual event has become a holiday tradition for families across Louisville. 

These free, family-friendly events feature two Louisville Ballet dancers, in costume, reading the classic story of The Nutcracker, along with music, dancing, crafts, and more! Plus, one lucky family at each event walks away with four tickets to see Louisville Ballet’s production of The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Join us for one of these Nutcracker Family Storytimes:

• Wednesday, December 4, 6:30 p.m. – Northeast Regional
• Thursday, December 5, 6:30 p.m. – St. Matthews Library     

For more information, visit LFPL.org/Nutcracker, or call the Main Library Children’s Department at 574-1620.

December 11 - next "Once Upon An Orchestra” event, providing free musical storytelling performances for families at Louisville libraries

The Louisville Free Public Library and the Louisville Orchestra are again bringing “Once Upon An Orchestra” public performances to all LFPL locations through March. 

Presented free, each branch will host one of six different, unique family programs that weave music and storytelling together in an interactive experience. Louisville Orchestra musicians perform original music created around familiar and beloved children’s books. The hour-long experiences include a 30-minute small ensemble performance preceded by a hands-on activity to build a musical instrument from recycled materials, so everyone can play along.

For “Once Upon An Orchestra,” composers from the LO Creators Corps have developed original musical scores to accompany a number of beloved children’s books, including Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar. In addition, this year’s series features two new compositions – Laura Numeroff’s If You Give a Mouse a Cookie and Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson.

“Once Upon An Orchestra” is funded with support from Louisville Metro Government. For more information, contact your local LFPL branch, or call the Louisville Orchestra at 587-8681.

Once Upon an Orchestra

• Wednesday, December 11, 10:30 a.m., Fairdale Library, Bunny's Book Club
• Thursday, December 12, 10:30 a.m., Bon Air  Library, Bunny's Book Club
• Saturday, January 11, 10:30 a.m., Iroquois Library, Bear Snores On
• Saturday, February 8, 2 p.m., St. Matthews Library, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
• Saturday, February 15, 2 p.m., South Central Regional Library, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
• Thursday, February 20, 6 p.m., Shawnee Library,, Llama Destroys the World
• Wednesday, March 19, 11 a.m., Southwest Regional Library, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
• Tuesday, March 25, 10:30 a.m., Crescent Hill Library, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
• Saturday, March 29, 10:30 a.m., Jeffersontown Library,  Bunny's Book Club

Louisville Metro news

Nominations are open through November 30 to honor exemplary youth through the AMPLIFY 502 Award

December 20 - Youth Volleyball Clinic 

On December 19 and 22, Louisville is hosting the NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball National Championship.

As part of the weekend’s activities, the Louisville Sports Commission is offering a FREE youth volleyball clinic for boys and girls ages 6-12.  

The clinic is Friday, December 20, with check-in from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and the clinic from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Kentucky International Convention Center, 221 S. Fourth Street, Hall D. 

College volleyball coaches will be your instructors, and the clinic will cover volleyball basics. This is open to anyone regardless of skill level.

All participants will receive a Molten shirt, Molten volleyball and more. Sign up by December 18 at https://forms.gle/H1er8M58M8XYkyAC6.

How to report a pothole

Residents have three ways to report a pothole: By calling Metro311, (502-574-5000) On social media using #502pothole On Public Works' website at gov/government/public-works/services/report-pothole-or-other-city-services-issue

Jefferson County Legal Help Center offering hours Tuesdays

Assistance

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

Kentucky's Employee Child Care Assistance Partner Program

The Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership (ECCAP) helps employers meaningfully  contribute financial assistance directly to employee child care costs by matching their contribution up to 100 percent, potentially doubling the value of their employer-provided benefit. All funds from the employer and the state are paid directly to eligible child care providers. Various program restrictions apply. Learn more at the Kentucky Chamber's ECCAP resource page, Kentucky's ECCAP program page, or by email.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trauma-trained mental health specialists are available at all eight Louisville Neighborhood Place locations for immediate and free assistance for any Louisville resident dealing with violence or other trauma. Appointments and walk-ins are accepted. The city has also set up a trauma hotline that is free to call: 901-0100.

Contact Congressman Morgan McGarvey's office

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

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

LMPD Public Review of Policy

From the Louisville Metro Police Department:
The LMPD is committed to engaging the public when revising our policies. The LMPD seeks feedback from the public. Below is the process the Department has implemented to ensure a deliberate and thoughtful process when revising policies.

Process

• Policies that have been revised each quarter will be posted for review and public comment.
• Changes that have been made to the previous policy will be highlighted.
• Comments will be reviewed and considered by appropriate personnel and leadership during the next policy review process.

Policy/Standard Operating Procedure updates: 

General Order #24-002 - March 2024 SOP Updates

Links to updates and online comment forms: 

https://www.louisville-police.org/882/LMPD-Public-Review-of-Policy

News you can use

District 10 CIF and NDF appropriations

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

Alcoholic Beverage Control advertisement run for 3825 Bardstown Road

An ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) ad ran in the Louisville Courier-Journal on November 18 for Tamu -Tamu Bar & Grill, 3825 Bardstown Road, Suite 103, declaring intention(s) to apply for a NQ2 Retail Drink License Special Sunday Retail Drink License license(s). 

Any person, association, corporation, or body politic, may protest the granting of the license(s) by writing the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, 500 Mero St 2NE33, Frankfort, Kentucky, 40601, within thirty (30) days of the date of legal publication.

Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services District 10 cases

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

Recent revised submittal to Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services: 

24-CAT2-003, 4610 Roofing Road, revised submittal of a category 2B development plan for a 46,500 square foot warehouse/office building on 5.6 acres in the M3 zoning district. American Roofing and Metal.

December 2 - Public hearing regarding 3025 Preston Highway

LIC-STA-24-01015, 3025 Preston Highway, a review for a Waiver of Metro Code 115.515 (D) (1) to allow Short Term Rental registration within 12 months of a citation. 

A public hearing will be held December 2, please scan the above code for information. 

December 4 - Public hearing regarding 4610 Roofing Road

24-WAIVER-0177, 4610 Roofing Road, a landscape waiver from chapter 10.2 of the land development code. A public hearing will be December 4, please scan the above code for information. 

December 12 - Public hearing regarding 1300 Belmar Drive

24-ZONE-0080, 1300 Belmar Drive, application for a Change in Zoning from M2 to CM/M2 to permit auto sales on 0.2798 acres. Dean's Classic Auto Sales.

A public hearing will be held December 12, please scan the above code for information. 

4610 Roofing Road

24-CAT2-003, 4610 Roofing Road, a category 2B development plan for a 46,500 square foot warehouse/office building on 5.6 acres in the M3 zoning district. American Roofing and Metal.

24-WAIVER-0177, 4610 Roofing Road, a landscape waiver from chapter 10.2 of the land development code. 

1225 Gardiner Lane:

• 24-CAT2-0033, 1225 Gardiner Lane, category 2B application for the construction of a gas station on 5.6159 acres in the M2 and OR1 zoning districts. Revisions submitted. 
• 24-WAIVER-0130, 1225 Gardiner Lane, A waiver application from section 5.6.1.C.1. to have less than 50% of the street facing facade without clear windows and doors. Accepted.
• 24-WAIVER-0131, 1225 Gardiner Lane, a landscape waiver from section 10.2.4.B.1 to encroach into the landscape buffer area in the northwest corner of Poplar Level Road. Accepted.
• 24-PARKWAIVER-0013, 1225 Gardiner Lane, a parking waiver to increase the maximum parking allowed from 24 spaces to 32 spaces. Accepted.

24-CUP-0063, 6500 Six Mile Lane, a Conditional Use Permit to construct a gym and building addition for a private institutional use on 7.1 acres in the R4 zoning district. NUR Islamic School. Revisions required.

4730 Champions Trace Lane

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

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

24-DDP-0076, 4642 Jennings Lane, a revised district development plan for transitional housing on .48 acres in the C2 zoning district. Pathways to Hope. 

1800 Newburg Road

24-LANDSCAPE-0159, 1800 Newburg Road, a revised landscape and tree preservation application on 6.104 acres in the R1, R5, and R7 zoning districts. St. Agnes Catholic School. Accepted.

24-MCUP-0019, 1800 Newburg Road, a Modified Conditional Use Permit for a private religious/learning institution on 203.97 acres in the R5, R7 and R1 zoning districts. Application accepted.

24-LANDSCAPE-0175, 6400 Six Mile Lane, a landscape and tree preservation application for multi-family residential use on 1.1877 acres. Six Mile Homes. 

24-LANDSCAPE-0160, 6718 Six Mile Lane, a clearing and grading application to remove trees and stumps on 0.9656 acres in the R4 zoning district. Application accepted.

24-LANDSCAPE-0124, 3417 Community Horizon Circle, revised submittal of a Landscape Plan for DaySpring's additional parking expansion. Approved. 

24-LANDSCAPE-0136, 1300 Eastern Parkway, a landscape plan to remove existing garage/shed and replace with a new one on 0.3916 acres in the R5A zoning district. Approved. 

23-MPLAT-0165, 2221 Bradford Drive, revised submittal for a minor plat to dedicate right of way on 5.46 acres in the R6 zoning district. Revisions submitted.

2230 Buechel Avenue

24-LANDSCAPE-0045, 2230 Buechel Avenue, a Landscape Plan for proposed improvements to historic train depot on 3.86 acres in the R5 and R4 zoning districts. Buechel Train Depot. Approved.

24-MPLAT-0129, 2230 Buechel Avenue, a Minor Subdivision Plat to dedicate right-of-way.  Buechel Train Depot. Approved.

2988 Newburg Road

24-CUP-0154, 2988 Newburg Road, revised submittal of an application for a Conditional Use Permit for a private school expansion on 7.01 acres in the R5 zoning district. Louisville Adventist Academy. 

24-VARIANCE-0118, 2988 Newburg Road, application for a variance from table 5.4.3 to allow a maximum building setback of approximately 550 feet from Schuff Lane. Louisville Adventist Academy. Public meeting.

24-VARIANCE-0119, 2988 Newburg Road, application for a variance from table 5.3.2 to allow a building setback of 20 feet from an adjacent residential use. Louisville Adventist Academy. Public meeting.

24-VARIANCE-0141, 4408 Petersburg Road, application for a variance to permit a deck to encroach two feet into the required five-foot setback. Public meeting.

2814 Newburg Road

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

1300 Belmar Drive

24-WAIVER-0165, 1300 Belmar Drive, an application for a Landscape Waiver from section 10.2.3 to waive the required landscape buffer between CM and M2 zoning districts on 0.2798 acres. Dean's Classic Auto Sales. Accepted.

24-ZONE-0080, 1300 Belmar Drive, application for a Change in Zoning from M2 to CM/M2 to permit auto sales on 0.2798 acres. Dean's Classic Auto Sales.

24-ZONE-0038, 6400 Six Mile Lane, a Change in Zoning from R-5 Single Family to R-7 Multifamily
with a Detailed District Development Plan with Binding Elements. Application accepted.

Short Term Rental cases

24-CUP-0244, 2902 Klondike Lane, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on .2 acres in the R5 zoning district. Application accepted.

24-CUP-0228, 1568 Belmar Drive, a Conditional Use Permit application for a non-owner occupied Short Term Rental on 0.4825 acres in the R5 zoning district. Approved.

LIC-STA-24-00735, 3018 Louisa Avenue, Waiver of 115.516 (D) (1) of Metro Code of Ordinances to allow the registration of a Short Term Rental within 12 months of being issued a citation. Denied.

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

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

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

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

Check on Planning and Design Services cases.

 Locate legal Short Term Rentals with interactive map

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

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

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

An easy way to find out where Louisville Water is working

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

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

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

Be informed about crimes with LMPD's crime mapping website

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

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

These LMPD divisions serve sections of District 10:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Veterans Crisis Line 

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

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

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

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

Streetlight out? Report it. 

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

Reporting potholes

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

Report litterers

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

Help stop wire theft along Kentucky's highways

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

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

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

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

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

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