A Note from CM Reno-Weber

As we step into the new year, in the midst of a snow-emergency, it’s a time to reflect and reinvest in the spirit of community that makes District 8 so remarkable. Growing up here, I saw firsthand the energy and heart that define this place, and all of the snow and ice has definitely reinforced just how special that is in our neighborhoods. From kids (and adults) sledding in our many parks to people helping each other shovel out, I am grateful to serve a district that thrives on resilience and collaboration. We are learning a lot from this, and hopefully we will be better prepared for the next one. Our Block by Block ambassadors and public works employees exemplify this spirit daily—keeping our streets cleaner, safer, and more welcoming, and offering a helping hand where it’s needed most. Their work sets the tone for the kind of collective effort that moves us forward. We also celebrate our January Highlands Hero, Amanda Villaveces, whose dedication to mental health advocacy strengthens connections across our district. Her work is a reminder of how vital it is to care for one another and ensure that resources reach those who need them. As we embrace 2025, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you who care enough to be involved in making our community better. Whether you’re volunteering, supporting local businesses, or simply showing kindness to a neighbor, you’re contributing to the vibrant fabric of our community. Let’s carry that energy into the new year, continuing to build a District 8 where everyone feels at home. Here’s to a year of shared successes, meaningful connections, and a deepened commitment to the community we all cherish. Happy New Year! Don't forget to read to the end for the punchline to this month's dad joke:  What’s a New Year’s resolution for ghosts?

Traffic Study Summary

Thank you for taking the time to participate in our recent Traffic Calming Survey. Your engagement is invaluable in shaping our community’s future, ensuring that our streets are safe and accessible for everyone.

We received an impressive 151 responses, with many of you highlighting concerns around speed humps, crosswalks, and signage in residential areas, as well as suggestions for improving traffic flow at key intersections. Responses varied from anonymous messages of “I HATE SPEED BUMPS” and “MORE SPEED BUMPS” to some very detailed and substantive proposals outlining potential projects for our district. These insights help us better understand the needs of our community and prioritize improvements that will make a difference in our daily lives.

Your involvement in this process strengthens our collective voice and helps guide our efforts to create a safer, more connected District 8.

Around D8

Crime is Down! Crime in Louisville’s 5th Division has seen a notable decline, with an overall reduction of 5.5% over the past two months. Key improvements include a 9.9% decrease in aggravated and felony assaults, a 4.5% drop in burglaries, and a significant 13.4% reduction in auto theft. Additionally, gun seizures are up by nearly 50%, helping to keep our neighborhoods safer. A huge thanks to our dedicated law enforcement officers for their ongoing work to protect our community!

Noise Ordinance Listening Session Thank you to everyone who joined our recent noise ordinance listening session! We had a tremendous turnout, with neighbors, business leaders, musicians, and service industry workers coming together to engage on this critical issue. A special shout-out to Director Brad Silveria from Alcoholic Beverage Control, Sean Vandevander from the Louisville Hospitality Association, and representatives from the Belknap, Tyler Park, and Original Highlands Neighborhood Associations for your insights and collaboration. To our local musicians and buskers, and to the hardworking servers at Highlands bars—thank you for bringing your voices to the table. These sessions are essential to finding a balanced solution that works for all, and your contributions were invaluable. Together, we’re crafting a path forward for a vibrant, harmonious Highlands, working together toward compromise.

Bardstown Road Aglow Cocktail Contest It was great attending the 39th Annual Bardstown Road Aglow Cocktail Contest! Thanks to all the people who showed up, particularly Makers Mark, all the restaurants that competed and the Highland Commerce Guild for organizing.

Drip n Dough The energy of this new business in the district is incredible! Be sure to stop by this new donut spot!

What's Bubbling Up?

Upcoming Events & Opportunities to Engage

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!

Landlord Incentive Program Louisville Metro Government has introduced the Landlord Incentive Program, offering property owners a $2,000 bonus for leasing units to individuals experiencing homelessness. This initiative aims to expand housing options for the unhoused community by encouraging landlords to participate. The program also provides landlords with support services to ensure successful tenancies. By fostering collaboration between property owners and social services, Louisville strives to address homelessness through sustainable housing solutions.

Louisville's Cyber Security Team is Hiring!

Join an innovative and dynamic team at Louisville Metro Government! Our Cyber Security Team is hiring for two exciting, grant-funded positions that are key to keeping our city safe:

- Red Team Analyst (Pentesting): [Apply here](https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/louisvilleky/jobs/4710683/red-team-analyst)  

- Cyber Threat Intel Analyst: [Apply here](https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/louisvilleky/jobs/4710652/cyber-threat-intelligence-analyst)

If you're passionate about cybersecurity and ready to make an impact, we want to hear from you!

Listen, Learn, Act Anti-Racism Challenge 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

Blanket Drive  The Youth In Action Network of Louisville is hosting its Annual Blanket Drive for the Homeless, Veterans, and those in need. With over 1,000 new faces joining our homeless population this year—including children—your support can make a world of difference. While doing your holiday shopping, grab a blanket or throw to donate! You can drop off donations on January 18 at the Bon Air Library.

D8 Works

Welcome to D8 Works, where we strive to highlight examples of our residents, the D8 office, and other local government agencies working together to improve our community.

Bardstown Road Cleanup A huge shout out to the Block By Block Ambassadors for cleaning up Bardstown Road just hours after a concern was raised!

Rental Registry Update

Important update for rental property owners! Starting November 4, rental registration will move from the Metro Business Portal to a new, user-friendly platform called Slate. Developed by Tolemi, Slate aims to streamline compliance and improve transparency. The Department of Codes & Regulations will provide a step-by-step guide and update their website when Slate launches. Stay informed by subscribing to the Rental Property Owner Newsletter, linked here.

Highlands Hero

We are so excited to share this month’s Highland Hero, Amanda Villaveces. She was nominated for her tireless work to promote and connect mental health providers to the community. Through her work with Mental Health Lou, she has connected hundreds of therapists to the community. After moving to the Highlands in 2015 knowing only a handful of people, Amanda's favorite memory was when she connected with some of her neighbors (who happened to know the same people she did)! 9 years later, their friendship has remained strong, demonstrating the community and support found in the Highlands. Amanda recommends hanging out in the Douglass Loop and hopes to continue to have folks engage in being good neighbors. Amanda, thanks for highlighting the community found in the Highlands, and for promoting mental health access to all. Do you know a Highlands Hero? Nominate them here!

Dad Joke of the Week

What’s a New Year’s resolution for ghosts?

To be a little less transparent.

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

601 West Jefferson Street, Third Floor

Louisville, Kentucky 40202

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