Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 12/20/2024 11:10 AM EST
COUNCILWOMAN DR. BARBARA SHANKLIN
(502) 574-1102 / 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202
Dr. Barbara Shanklin District 2 Councilwoman 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202 (502) 574-1102 Barbara.Shanklin@louisvilleky.gov
Caleb Howard Legislative Assistant Caleb.Howard@louisvilleky.gov
On the third Tuesday of each month, a Community Meeting is held to give residents an opportunity to be informed, discuss ideas and share. Be part of the change we want to see for our community. Join us at 6:00PM to share with Councilwoman Dr. Barbara Shanklin.
JOIN US IN-PERSON NEXT MONTH TO MEET WITH COUNCILWOMAN SHANKLIN'S OFFICE AT NEWBURG LIBRARY (4800 EXETER AVE.)
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News from Mayor Greenberg and the City of Louisville
MAYOR GREENBERG RECAPS HIGHLIGHTS OF 2024
Positive Momentum in Every Corner of Louisville
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 19, 2024) – Today, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg reflects on the most important accomplishments and moments of his administration in 2024 that are bringing about positive change in every corner of the community.
“Before the year ends, it’s important to take a look at what we’ve accomplished and how we can continue our positive momentum into the new year,” said Mayor Greenberg. “We’re moving Louisville in a new direction, and it’s evident as we look at the important investments we’ve made in public safety, infrastructure, job creation, affordable housing, parks and much more.” The following are some of Mayor Greenberg’s 2024 accomplishments in his priority areas of focus.
Public Safety
Chief Paul Humphrey sworn in to lead the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) and transform the culture to focus on accountability and reducing crime.
New LMPD contract that increases pay to recruit and retain more officers.
Gun Violence Task Force in partnership with state and local prosecutors to get violent felons off the streets.
$16.5 million budget surplus due to new investment strategies and effective management - majority invested in public safety with new police cameras, expanding facilities to get more police cars on the streets, and firehouse improvements.
Historic consent decree with the U.S. Department of Justice, which is unlike any other city in America’s because of the transformation already taking place under the leadership of Mayor Greenberg and Chief Humphrey. Louisville is on track to exit the decree in five years or less.
Expansion of Crisis Call Diversion Program, which dispatches mental health professionals instead of police officers to runs involving people experiencing mental health crises.
The number of homicides in Louisville has decreased each year since its peak in 2021 - going from 171 to 138 this year.
The overall number of shootings in Louisville has decreased 41% since 2021.
In October, the mayor announced two large-scale gang prosecutions.
Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) successfully shut down three bars and clubs with repeated violations of allowing guns inside their establishments and other public safety issues.
Heroic crisis response by first responders in Second Street Bridge rescue, East End tornadoes, Givaudan explosion, and future LouMed site rescue.
Mayor Greenberg and Chief Humphrey announce crack down on street racing and impoundment of cars involved in the illegal activity – 30 cars seized since September.
Mayor Greenberg creates new Park Ranger Program to help patrol parks and enforce hours.
Louisville celebrates one-year anniversary of Summit Wellness Center – in just one year, the number of LMPD missed workdays due to illness shrunk dramatically from 2,700 to 700 days. LMPD worker’s comp costs decreased by more than one million dollars.
“As mayor, I know the most important part of my job is public safety,” said Mayor Greenberg. “That’s why we strengthened our efforts to find new ways to fight violent crime, because I know how important it is for every resident in this community to be safe and feel safe in their neighborhood.”
Creating New Jobs & Improving Local Economy
5,800 new jobs created across Louisville Metro
Historic one-billion-dollar investment in Louisville from the Kentucky General Assembly - $100 million being invested in Downtown Louisville projects.
The Louisville Economic Development Authority (LEDA) launches to help attract new businesses and grow existing businesses – CEO search underway.
Louisville is a finalist for the Sundance Film Festival.
Historic job creation in West Louisville with the new Norton Hospital West Louisville, Goodwill Opportunity Center, Stellar Snacks, and MMY Housing all opening in 2024.
The first Publix opens in Louisville.
More than $200 million mixed-use community breaks ground in South End that includes a new Kroger.
Revitalizing downtown through the Downtown Louisville Building Conversion Fund, which incentivizes projects focused on converting empty office buildings into residential, housing, or mixed-use developments and $3 million Downtown Revitalization Fund.
Diamond Baseball Holdings and Machete group announce new development next to Slugger Field. Proposed development will be largest economic development project in downtown Louisville since the Omni Hotel.
“I wake up every day thinking about how we can innovate and do things differently to bring about positive change in Louisville by creating new, good-paying jobs, which attract new talent and new opportunities for Louisville,” said Mayor Greenberg. “I am energized by the growth and change we see happening across the city.”
Affordable Housing and Safer Neighborhoods
Louisville Metro Housing Authority launches plan to redevelop Dosker Manor, Avenue Plaza & Iroquois Green - tearing down inhumane public housing and replacing it with safe, new homes for residents.
Continued progress on the Mayor’s My Louisville Home Plan to create and preserve 15,000 affordable housing units.
5,400 units of affordable housing created.
Mayor Greenberg launched Lien Waiver Forgiveness Program to redevelop vacant and abandoned properties and create new, affordable homes in neighborhoods experiencing blight.
One million dollars from mid-year budget surplus invested in Down Payment Assistance Fund to help new homeowners purchase their first property.
Mayor Greenberg celebrated the 500th homeowner that transitioned from rental assistance to homeownership through the Louisville Metro Housing Authority's Homeownership Program.
Land Development Code plan to create housing choices and opportunities in new and existing neighborhoods.
“Safe, quality, and affordable housing is the foundation for everything else in a family’s life,” said Mayor Greenberg. “When people have access to safe housing, they are more likely to be healthy and have a good job. Every person in every corner of this community deserves access to safe, quality, and affordable housing.”
Improving Social Services
Community Care Campus opens temporary shelter for families & construction is underway on the state-of-the-art facility that will provide wrap-around support for those experiencing homelessness.
Unsafe & unhealthy camps have been cleared, while Mayor Greenberg’s administration has provided more outreach, support, services and shelter for those in need.
Homeless Services Division fully staffed, fully funded and responds to calls within 24 hours.
More than five million dollars in opiod settlement funding goes to local organizations that provide services and shelter to homeless.
More than one million dollars in grants to local organizations that support the homeless.
Improving Early Childhood Education
Thrive by Five, launched with an initial five-million-dollar investment from Mayor Greenberg, names the new board and CEO search is underway. Mayor Greenberg’s concept will expand access to quality early childhood learning opportunities for Louisville families.
The Bezos Academy announces its fourth early learning Louisville location in partnership with Louisville Metro Government. The Bezos Academy will provide free, year-round education to three- and four-year-old children in Louisville.
“It’s important that we prioritize the care of those who need us the most – children and those experiencing hardships,” said Mayor Greenberg. “I am proud that our administration is working every day to expand opportunities for early learning while providing support people in crisis.”
Investing in Previously Neglected Parks and Libraries
Algonquin and Camp Taylor Pools under construction
Parkland Library (closed for 30 years) will soon be open with construction of the new Portland Library almost complete. Work will begin on new Fern Creek Library in 2025.
Mayor Greenberg has opened, renovated or announced parks across Louisville – Berrytown, New Walnut St., Alberta O. Jones, Windsor, Iroquois, Hays Kennedy, South Central, Long Run and Elliot parks, in addition to a welcome center addition at Riverside Farnsley Moorman and upgrades at Quail Chase, Sun Valley and Crescent Hill gold courses.
Mayor Greenberg allocated $12 million for deferred maintenance of parks and community centers – almost 25 projects completed in 2024.
Improving Public Works and New Infrastructure Projects
The new Department of Transportation will be up and running in early 2025.
East Market Street work begins after 14 years of discussion.
Conversion of one-way streets to two-way streets in Downtown Louisville.
Public Works paved 120 miles of road – that’s basically the distance from Louisville to Indianapolis. The city also filled 43,000 potholes.
New underpass lighting downtown to help connect city center with NULU and improve public safety.
Copper Wire Task Force announced to reduce theft of street-light and telecommunications wire. Arrests have already been made.
“For far too long, this city has neglected to take care of the roads needed to transport goods and services across this community, as well as the places we go for enjoyment and learning – that’s all changing as we move in a new direction for Louisville,” said Mayor Greenberg. “I know we’re making a difference as community members comment about new parks in their neighborhoods, renovations of existing parks, improved community centers where they play sports or their children attend camps and opening libraries that have been closed for decades”
Record-Breaking Events
The city celebrated an historic Kentucky Derby 150.
Louisville hosted the 2024 PGA Championship and will host the 2028 Solheim Cup, the women’s golf equivalent of the Ryder Cup.
Bourbon & Beyond saw a record-setting attendance of 210,000 peopleover the course of its four days, as well as a record crowd of 60,000 on September 21, marking the highest single-day attendance and the largest music festival in the state's history.
Louisville jammed to its 10th year of Louder Than Life
Mayor Greenberg launched his Mayorthon Race Series consisting of four races in the Fall of 2024.
“What a year it’s been in Louisville,” said Mayor Greenberg. “It’s the greatest honor of my life to serve as your mayor, and I hope you can feel the positive momentum as we get ready to launch what I believe will be a year of new opportunities for the city we all love so much."
MAYOR GREENBERG ANNOUNCES HISTORIC CONSENT DECREE
Sets Aggressive Timeline for Continued Police Reform & Possible Exit in Five Years or Less
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 12, 2024) – Today Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) Chief Paul Humphrey joined United States Department of Justice (DOJ) Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Kristen Clarke to announce all parties have entered into a landmark consent decree that will set an aggressive timeline for continued police reform and provide a possible exit from the decree in five years or less.
“The most basic responsibility of government is to keep our people safe while protecting constitutional rights and treating everyone fairly,” said Mayor Greenberg. “As Mayor, I promised to uphold that responsibility, and I have.”
This historic agreement announced today builds upon and accelerates the transformational reform of community policing that has been ongoing in Louisville since the mayor took office two years ago.
From the beginning of negotiations, Mayor Greenberg said any agreement must meet three conditions: it had to build on the significant reforms of policing that have taken place over the last two years, it could not handcuff police as they work to prevent crime, and it had to be financially responsible with clear terms for when and how the decree would end. Mayor Greenberg said those requirements have been met.
“The Department of Justice saw the action we’ve already taken and our commitment to aggressively implement police reform. As a result of these improvements, we have a consent decree unlike any other city in America.”
Unlike some other cities, Louisville did not wait to take action until signing a consent decree. Over the last two years LMPD rewrote its policies, revised its procedures, and reorganized its department. Officers are getting more and better training and more and better care when they need it. LMPD is collecting the data needed to make good decisions and measure whether it is meeting its goals. The department implemented a new focus on de-escalation and significantly expanded the deflection program to ensure more effective interventions for people in crisis.
“We are already well on our way to implementing many of the requirements in this consent decree,” said Chief Humphrey. “I felt comfortable signing this because our officers will have clear guidance and goals to meet, the DOJ can’t move the goalposts, and our officers can focus on good police work, not paperwork.”
In addition, Mayor Greenberg pointed out that the consent decree agreement is financially responsible for the city because it caps the annual cost of the independent monitor. He also expects the department will be in full compliance in five years or less, unlike other cities who have seen consent decrees last for a decade or more without achieving compliance.
“To the men and women of LMPD, thank you for protecting us every day. I know you are committed to public service for the right reasons and want to do your job the right way,” said Mayor Greenberg. “And to those in our community who demanded change, thank you for speaking up. Your willingness to demand meaningful, lasting change helped bring us to this moment.”
Today’s consent decree is the result of more than 65 meetings, plus countless phone calls and document reviews equaling thousands of hours logged by members of the Louisville Metro Government negotiating team.
Louisville Metro Government will soon post the Request for Qualification for applicants interested in serving as the independent monitor for the consent decree. This team will ensure Louisville is meeting its compliance benchmarks. This will be a public selection process. Applicants will be vetted by the city and the DOJ. The community will have a chance to meet the finalists before a decision is made.
In addition, Chief Humphrey will attend several community meetings next year for Louisville residents to hear about implementation progress, a dashboard will be available for the public to monitor that progress, and progress updates will be provided at Chief Humphrey’s regular press briefings.
Louisville Metro Council News
Metro Council meeting highlights for Thursday, December 12, 2024
Below is a recap of the regularly scheduled Metro Council meeting
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 12, 2024) – The Louisville Metro Council held their regularly scheduled Council meeting tonight. Here are some of the highlights.
Old Business
Approved
R-121-24: resolution amending Metro Council Rule 10 regarding Metro Council vacancies.
O-259-24: an ordinance amending Chapter 150 of LMCO to give greater notice to those affected by the demolition of removal of a building or structure.
R-154-24: accepting conservation easement at 15205 Brush Run Road.
O-282-24: an ordinance appropriating and reallocating funds from Opioid Settlement funds through Public Health & Wellness.
O-290-24: an ordinance authorizing year-end operating budget transfers for FY 2023-2024.
Special Recognitions and Proclamations
Councilwoman Betsy Ruhe recognized the District 21 Page, Will Hicks.
President Markus Winkler announced the results of the Metro Council Food drive and presented the donations to the Association of Community Ministries.
Councilwoman Shameka Parrish-Wright recognized the Kentucky Innocence Project and exonerees from Louisville.
Councilman Dan Seum recognized retiring Fairdale Fire Department Chief Josh Underwood and Interim Chief Carrie Blevins.
The Council recognized the outgoing Councilmembers for their service - Jecorey Arthur (4), Phillip Baker (6), Pat Mulvihill (10), Rick Blackwell (12), Cindi Fowler (14), Robin Engel (22), and Madonna Flood (24).
Consent Calendar – all items passed unanimously
R-146-24: resolution approving the Jefferson County Sheriff’s 2025 Budget.
R-147-24: resolution approving the Jefferson County Clerk’s 2025 Budget.
R-139-24: resolution amending the Metro Council Policies and Procedures and Council Personnel Policies.
R-138-24: resolution urging the mayor to declare Veterans Day a Metro Holiday.
R-145-24: resolution honoring Old Walnut Street by dedicating the Northwest corner of 13th Street and Muhammad Ali Blvd in its honor.
O-227-24: an ordinance establishing a Development Area to be known as 615-625 East Market Street Development Area.
O-265-24: an ordinance amending the Louisville Metro Code of Ordinances (LMCO) to require permits for events held in Metro Parks and establishing civil fines and enforcement procedures for the failure to obtain or comply with a permit.
R-142-24: resolution approving contract for management of Quail Chase Golf Course.
R-153-24: accepted a conservation easement at 5801 and 5900 Billtown Road.
O-272-24: an ordinance relating to the detailed District Development Plan for property at 6805 Beulah Church Road.
R-137-24: resolution directing Landmarks Commission Staff to begin landmarks review process for historic Wagner’s Pharmacy, 3113 South 4th
R-143-24: resolution directing Landmarks Commission Staff to begin landmarks review process for historic Kosair for Kids, 982 Eastern Parkway.
R-144-24: resolution requesting the Planning Commission review the Metro Land Development Code Regulations with regard to development along substandard roads.
R-150-24: resolution approving the noncompetitively negotiated sole source contract for Metro Animal Services for trap neuter and return program with Alley Cat Advocates.
R-151-24: resolution accepting $963,000 from the Department of Justice for the Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods.
O-284-24: an ordinance awarding a communications services franchise to Lumos Fiber of Kentucky.
R-155-24: resolution ratifying and approving a collective bargaining agreement concerning certain employees of the Department of Public Works and Assets.
The Metro Council meeting will take a break until the organizational meeting on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
Mayor Greenberg’s mid-year budget adjustments adopted by Metro Council
New investments in police, fire, city infrastructure and downpayment assistance
LOUISVILLE, KY December 12, 2024 – This evening, Mayor Craig Greenberg’s mid-year budget adjustments were passed by Louisville Metro Council. Louisville Metro Council passed a mid-year adjustment ordinance to appropriate the $16.5 million revenue surplus from FY 24. The ordinance allocates funding to critical public safety needs, enhanced infrastructure, and closes funding gaps on essential city projects. The surplus was largely driven by the receipt of unbudgeted investment income due to a new strategic investment strategy implemented by Mayor Greenberg last year, as well as prudent management of department budgets.
“Thanks to the strategic management of our financial resources, Louisville is in a strong fiscal position,” said Mayor Greenberg. “This investment income windfall, along with our prudent budget practices, gives us the opportunity to invest in projects that address the city’s most pressing needs while preparing for future growth.”
The following items are included:
Public Safety/Public Works
Installation of additional cameras at critical locations.
Funding for a second shift of mechanics to maintain city vehicles and heavy equipment and ensure more police cars are on the streets.
Expansion of the radio shop for better communication capabilities and to ensure electronic equipment is installed more quickly and efficiently to get new emergency vehicles on the streets in a faster timeframe.
Purchase of new vehicles for snow removal and general services. Purchase of three new fire engines and one new truck
Building improvements at four firehouses
Infrastructure Funding Gaps
Eleven priority projects for sidewalks, median improvements, and roundabouts received necessary funding for completion.
Affordable Housing
The mid-year budget adjustment includes a $1.05M investment in the down payment assistance program for first-time homebuyers before current funds are depleted.
Metro Council Directed Projects
The mayor’s proposal included funding for $2M that Metro Council members directed to be funded in the FY25 approved budget. These items include:
Olmsted Match funding for Central Park improvements
Humane Society
Contributions to the Rainy Day Fund for long-term financial stability
The mayor’s proposal reserved more than $1.3 million for additional Metro Council-directed investments that were contained in the final ordinance as adopted.
Louisville Metro Health and Wellness News
Flu and other respiratory illnesses are increasing in Louisville
The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness has received increasing reports of flu, COVID-19, Whooping Cough (pertussis) and RSV cases in the past two weeks. Outbreaks of flu have been reported in congregate and educational settings. Visits to emergency departments and hospital admission for influenza are increasing across the state.
“There is no more ‘flu season is around the corner.’ Flu is here,” said Dr. Kris Bryant, infectious disease specialist for Norton Children’s and associate medical director for LMPHW. “We are also well into RSV season, but we’ve not yet reached the peak. Cases continue to climb.”
Staying healthy
“No one wants to miss holiday gatherings because they’re sick,” said Dr. Bryant. "There are several steps all of us can take to reduce our risk of getting a respiratory virus so we can do more of the things we enjoy.”
Make sure you and your children up to date with your vaccines, including flu vaccine
Wash your hands often.
Sneeze or cough into your elbow or tissues.
Stay home if you’re sick.
Consider wearing a mask if you are high-risk for serious illness.
Dr. Bryant notes that while many viral illnesses just need to run their course, there are antiviral medications are available to treat influenza.
“These medications are recommended as soon as possible for anyone with severe, complicated, or progressive illness or anyone at higher risk for influenza complications. People at higher risk include those less than 5 years of age, those 65 years and older and individuals with chronic health conditions, including body mass index of 40 kg/m2 or higher,” said Dr. Bryant. “Antiviral treatment can be considered for otherwise healthy people if it can be started within 48 hours of illness.”
New dashboard tracks flu cases in Jefferson County
LMPHW has a new Influenza (Flu) Surveillance Dashboard. This interactive tool is designed to provide preliminary weekly totals for cases, flu-related deaths, and outbreaks within Jefferson County, using data from the National Electronic Disease Surveillance System. Information is collected from hospitals, laboratories, and private provider offices. The dashboard provides numbers across several different categories:
Gender
Race
Ethnicity
Age groups (adults or children)
Location by ZIP code
Please note that these figures are preliminary and may change over time. The dashboard will be refreshed weekly as new information becomes available.
To learn more information about flu and other respiratory illnesses, please visit our website. To schedule your flu vaccine, contact your healthcare provider, local pharmacy or visit vaccines.gov.
Metro Parks and Recreation News
Stay active this winter with programming offered by Louisville Parks and Recreation
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 9, 2024) – Registration is now open for Louisville Parks and Recreation winter break camps for youths ages 5-12 and indoor basketball leagues for both youth and adults.
Winter break camps will take place at all Louisville Parks and Recreation community centers, excluding Wilderness Road and Metro Arts, from December 23-27 (week one) and December 30-January 3 (week two) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The cost is $60 per week, with field trips included in the cost. Camps will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
The community centers offering winter break camps are listed below:
· Beechmont Community Center, 205 W. Wellington Avenue, (502) 361-5484
· Berrytown Community Center, 1300 Heafer Road, (502) 456-8148
· California Community Center, 1600 W. St. Catherine Street, (502) 574-2658
· Cyril Allgeier Community Center, 4101 Cadillac Court, (502) 456-3261
· Douglass Community Center, 2305 Douglass Boulevard, (502) 456-8120
· Newburg Community Center, 4810 Exeter Avenue, (502) 456-8122
· Parkhill Community Center, 1703 S. Thirteenth Street, (502) 574-5494
· Portland Community Center, 640 N. 27th Street, (502) 776-0913
· Shawnee Community Center, 607 South 37th Street, (502) 775-5268
· South Louisville Community Center, 2911 Taylor Boulevard, (502) 574-3206
· Southwick Community Center, 3621 Southern Avenue, (502) 775-6598
· Sun Valley Community Center, 6505 Bethany Lane, (502) 937-8802
Registration is also open for basketball leagues with games beginning in January. Youth leagues will take place at various community center locations based on age group. The deadline to register for a youth basketball league is December 15, with a registration fee of $35 per player.
Registration for the adult men’s league ends January 5. The cost to participate in the adult league is $450 per team, with a seven game season and four team tournament all taking place at Cyril Allgeier Community Center.
You can find more information about winter break camps and athletic leagues and register by visiting bestparksever.com.
Office for Women News
Strengthening the Village Childcare Project finds success in empowering refugee and immigrant women to open family childcare businesses
Like many cities, Louisville families face challenges in locating and paying for childcare. A local city-led initiative is helping to fill in these gaps by growing the childcare infrastructure and supporting new women-led businesses.
The “Strengthening the Village: Family Child Care Homes & Career Pathways Support for Immigrant & Refugee Women Project” is a partnership between the Mayor’s Office for Women, the Office for Immigrant Affairs, the Office of Early Childhood, Community Coordinated Child Care (4-C) and See Forward Ministries. It focuses on two key priorities for Mayor Greenberg’s administration: economic development and quality early child learning. The project began with a 2023 Dollarwise Innovation Grant from the U.S. Conference of Mayors that was awarded to eight projects nationwide to expand economic mobility and intergenerational wealth for residents.
Since 2023, the initiative has recruited, trained and provide wraparound coaching and support to a cohort of immigrant and refugee women to open family childcare homes and pursue related career pathways. The project focuses on removing language barriers, conducting outreach and building trust with immigrant and refugee communities and improving coordination between non-profit and government agencies.
So far, 18 women from Cuba and the Democratic Republic of Congo have opened family childcare homes as a result of the collaborative effort. Four more women from Rwanda are in the process of opening certified family childcare homes, resulting in a total of 22 new childcare businesses. The homes have passed through state requirements to be certified or registered family childcare businesses so that they can receive federal childcare subsidies. Each family childcare home is able to provide childcare for between 6 and 10 children.
In the past, language barriers and lack of relationships often prevented immigrant and refugee women from successfully opening child-care homes. Funding from this grant and the Mayor’s Office for Women has helped to remove these barriers and forge new relationships between refugee serving agencies, government and non-profits working on childcare.
“By working together, we helped to empower the families to foster independence, and self-sufficiency, reduce social isolation, and contribute to the Louisville workforce," said Community Coordinated Child Care's Family Child Care Specialist Trish Kite-Hannon. "I only hope to continue to support and mentor the community to help provide safe, reliable child care options."
Many of the women were not previously engaged in the workforce, so opening up their own businesses has meant new sources of family income and being more empowered in their new country.
“I think the expression “it takes a village” really sums up this work,” shared Eunice Mukaz, Program Manager of See Forward Ministries. “We are strengthening the village, one woman at a time.”
In 2025, the project aims to expand to new communities and involve new agencies. As Gretchen Hunt, director of the Mayor’s Office for Women explains: “We are now more certain than ever that investing in women results in great returns for the community. We are excited to replicate this model across the city.”
For more information about the project or how to open a family childcare business, the public can contact Gretchen Hunt with the Mayor’s Office for Women at 502-574-3536 or Trish Kite-Hannon of Community Coordinated Child Care at (502) 636-1358.
4-Week Anti-Racism Challenge Beginning January 3rd
Take the City-wide 4-Week Anti-Racism Challenge sponsored by Listen Learn Act!
How it works: For 4 weeks beginning January 3rd, participants will receive a weekly email with a list of 10-12 anti-racism activities. We ask participants to complete 3 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
Louisville Free Public Library News
Top 10 things to do this Winter Break for FREE at the Library
LOUISVILLE, KY (December 19, 2024) – School is almost out for winter break and the Louisville Free Public Library is ready to help keep families engaged and entertained, without putting a dent in your budget. All LFPL branchesoffer free activities for children, teens, and caregivers throughout the winter break (closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day), including a variety of craft and maker workshops, dance parties, hands-on learning, movie screenings, teen challenges, and more!
Vie for the title of puzzle master at a Teen Jigsaw Puzzle Race (Dec. 21, 2-3:30 p.m. @ Main), or try to escape not one, but three rooms at Northeast’s Teen Escape Room Challenge (Jan. 2, 1-5 p.m. @ Northeast Regional Library)
The whole family can relax and create together at special Mindfulness Storytimes at Western Library (Dec. 23 & 30, 6 p.m., for kids ages 0-10 and their families), or drop-in to make winter crafts over hot cocoa at Shively Library (Jan. 2, 2:30-4:30 p.m., ages 0-10).
Dress to get messy at a Slime Party at Main (Dec. 30, 2 p.m.), or get creative with glue and paint at Crescent Hill’s Winter Crafts & Games (Dec. 23, 2-4 p.m., ages 4-10).
Young book fans can read to a dog (Jan. 2, 3 p.m. @ St. Matthews Library, ages 5-10 & Jan. 4, 2-3:30 p.m. @ Northeast Regional Library), get cozy with snacks and a good book at Silent Book Club (Dec. 28, 2 p.m. @ South Central Regional Library, ages 8-12), and meet new friends at the Little Bookworms Book Club (Jan. 2, 1:30 p.m. @ Iroquois, ages 6-11.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve early with aNYE Storytime (Dec. 31, 10:30 a.m. @ Northeast Regional Library), NYE Dance Party (Dec. 31, 11 a.m. @ Iroquois Library), NYE Around the World (Dec. 31, 2 p.m. @ Main Library), and a Noon Year’s Eve Party (Dec. 31, 11 a.m. @ South Central Regional Library).
Our youngest patrons are invited to try out percussion instruments while their parents chat at a Musical Baby Play Group (Jan. 4, 10:30am @ Middletown Library, ages 0-2), or take in a storytime at any Library branch.
Kids & teens are invited to the Shawnee Library to learn the basics of cooking (Jan. 2, 3 p.m.) and discover their green thumb at an indoor plant session (Jan. 3, 3 p.m.).
Learn how to play loteria in both Spanish and English / Acompáñenos a jugar lotería Vamos a jugar de forma bilingüe Española e Ingles. (Jan. 2, 6 p.m. @ Iroquois Library)
Teens can get out of the houseand meet up at an indoor snowball fight (Jan. 2, 2-3:30 p.m. @ Main Library), or grab snacks and a movie at a teens-only Holiday Party (Dec. 23, 2-4 p.m. @ Shawnee).
READ! There is always a good book to check out at your local library branch.
These are just a few of the many free activities hosted by your Louisville Free Public Library. In addition, we offer a wide selection of books, eBooks, audiobooks, DVDs, and streaming videos to keep kids and teens reading and entertained during the break—all for free! For a full list of activities and registration information, go to www.LFPL.org/winterbreak, or call (502) 574-1611.
This dashboard shows two different types of projects:
Current Projects that have received funding and are working towards construction.
Future Projects that are not yet funded but are serious contenders to apply for future funding opportunities.
Public Works built this database to increase transparency, track data, measure progress towards meeting goals, and aid future decision-making. This data will inform which transportation projects are submitted for future funding opportunities, including federal grants. As priorities change over time, projects will be added, removed, or modified. Public Works greatly values the opinions of Metro Council members and their constituents, so feedback is important to ensure that we are addressing their needs. Currently this dashboard only shows federally funded projects, but work continues to add more information on various funding sources, project types, and data analysis.
To provide feedback on the tool itself or to request a change to the projects listed, please contact Amanda Deatherage, Transportation Planner Supervisor, Amanda.Deatherage@LouisvilleKY.gov.
Waste Management News
The Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue is open. This is a popular disposal site for large loads of unbagged yard waste, tree limbs and stumps up to three feet in diameter, construction debris, and large household items. (Fees may apply.) Residents can dispose of up to four tires, up to three electronic items, and up to three large household items for FREE! Details can be found on the website. Open Tuesday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
To report materials that have been illegally dumped or "junk" set out on the wrong day, use Metro311 or 574-5000.
If you WITNESSED A PERSON illegal dumping and have information (pictures, license plate #, etc.), please report it on our new online form.
Keep an eye out for the vehicles our Enforcement Team is currently looking for!
Don't contribute to the problem!
If you hire someone to dispose waste for you,ask to see their Waste Hauler License and do not pay without a disposal receipt. Properly disposing of truck loads of materials costs at least $50 - if you're charged less than that, be suspicious. Perpetrators will often take your money and illegally dump your items to avoid the disposal fee. Drop off up to three household items for free at the Waste Reduction Center. (Disposal fees may apply for additional items.)
Only set out junk or bulky items during your scheduled set out period. Residents in the Urban Services District can sign up for set out reminders using the Recycle Coach app. Residents outside of the Urban Services District should call their contracted waste hauler for information.
Tips to Prevent Illegal Dumping on your Property
Keep your property well lit and clear of overgrown trees and shrubs.
Monitor your property - the presence of illegally dumped materials or bulky items set out too early attracts additional dumping.
Install security cameras - send your video or photos anonymously to us and enforcement officers can use identifying information to catch the perpetrator.
Cover your loads! A lot of litter ends up on the highway because of waste not properly contained in trucks
Remove vehicle debris after an accident. When a wrecked vehicle is removed, the debris must be removed with it.
Report materials that have been illegally dumped or "junk" set out on the wrong day to Metro311 or call 311 or 574-5000.
If you WITNESSED A PERSON illegally dumping and have information (pictures, license plate #, etc.) report it on our online form.
If you hire someone to dispose waste for you, ask to see their Waste Hauler License and do not pay without a disposal receipt. Properly disposing of truckloads of material costs at least $50 - if you're charged less than that, be suspicious. Perpetrators will often take your money and illegally dump items to avoid the disposal fee. Drop off up to three household items for free at the Waste Reduction Center. (Disposal fees apply for additional items.)
Only set out large items during your scheduled set out period. Residents in the Urban Services District can sign up for set out reminders using the Recycle Coach app. Residents outside the Urban Services District should call their contracted waste hauler for information.
Dispose of large items like tires and furniture at Pop-Up Drop-Off events – free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County.
If you see a streetlight out in your neighborhood (or anywhere in Louisville), please note the address and report it to LG&E for repair. Click here to fill out the online form to report broken or malfunctioning streetlights. We always recommend adding your contact information to the request, so a technician who has questions can contact you. LG&E makes repairs during the day. Make sure you follow up if the streetlight hasn’t been repaired within seven (7) days.
The purpose of this monthly newsletter is to communicate with our community partners about events and provide information you may find beneficial to have and share with your neighbors. Our monthly letter will provide you with an overview of crime trends within the division and highlight the work our talented women and men do each day serving our community. We will also provide any information that could impact our neighborhoods and travel such as construction and festivals. Please feel free and share this newsletter with your friends, family, and neighbors. Signing up will ensure they receive the newsletter as soon as it is published.
LMPD reminder: Please secure your property and stay vigilant!
The city has seen an increase of illegal activity, including vandalism, vehicle thefts, items stolen from vehicles, and gun shots reported over the past year. Here are several tips from LMPD that may seem simple but could be very effective in preventing crime in our neighborhoods!
Immediately report any suspicious person, activity (gunshots), or vehicles to (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-TIPS. This is not just for vehicle vandalism but drug activity, home/garage vandalism, gun shots - ANY suspicious activity! Make a police report!
- Never leave anything of value in your vehicle; this includes laptops, purses, GPS devices, and even loose change. - Always lock your vehicle doors. - Remove garage door openers from vehicles usually parked outside. - Do not leave your keys in your vehicle. Do not warm up your vehicles without you in them! - Do not leave the windows of you vehicle open, or partially open. - Consider additional lighting around your property; try to park your vehicle in a well-lit area. - Never leave a firearm unprotected in your vehicle.
Please remember to not leave your vehicle running and unattended!
Metro Emergency Repair Program
Eligibility criteria:
Must be owner occupied for at least one year.
Not available on rental property.
Must meet income guidelines (see intake staff).
May receive assistance once in a five year period.
Louisville-Jefferson County only.
Types of repairs:
Furnace repair or replacement (October-April only).
A/C unit- repair or replacement (Requires medical statement, available May-Sept. only).
Electrical repairs/upgrades.
Water line repairs/replacement.
Sewer line repairs/replacement.
Water heater repair/replacement (gas or electric).
Peace Presbyterian Church (4210 East Indian Trail, Louisville, KY 40213)
Open every 2nd Monday of the month -- 10am - 12pm
Forest Baptist Church (4500 Petersburg Road, Louisville, KY 40218)
Open every 1st Thursday of the month -- 4pm - 6pm
Information about both pantries:
Serving households in the 40213, 40218 & 40219 Zip Codes Only
First Come, First Served Basis
Picture ID & proof of residency required!
LouieConnect
Louisville non-profits have launched a new website to help connect people in need of food, shelter, and more. Metro United Way and the Family Scholar House partnered to create LouieConnect, modeling it on a similar site created in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. When someone uses LouieConnect, the web-based app asks for basic information and then lists applicable resources nearby — from food pantries to shelters to career centers to financial literacy programs.
***Important Metro Services Phone Numbers***
Air Pollution: (502) 574-6000
Animal Services: (502) 363-6609 or (502) 361-1318
Brightside: (502) 574-2613
Community Services & Revitalization: (502) 574-4377
Congressman Morgan McGarvey: (502) 582-5129
IPL (Code Enforcement): (502) 574-3321
Legal Aid Society: (502) 584-1254
LG&E Business: (502) 627-3313 or (800)- 331-7370
LG&E Residential: (502) 589-1444 or (800) 331-7370
LMPD 6th Division: (502) 574-2187
LMPD Anonymous Tipline: (502) 574-LMPD (5673)
LMPD: (Non Emergency): (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-2111
