Last week, I introduced legislation that will make it easier to restrict Payday Loans/Check Cashing Operations with regards to zoning changes. This is all part of a larger plan revitalize the south end economically. We have heard from the people that they do not want these types of businesses in their community.
The current language regulates banks and trusted financial institutions the same way as cash advance and check cashing businesses, despite significant differences between them. By amending the LDC, the Council hopes to limit predatory lending practices when zoning changes occur.
 Last week, I led my first Parks and Sustainability Committee meeting! As Chair, I invited Executive Director King and Director Canuel of Parks in for a discussion. We had a productive conversation on deferred maintenance, addressing the challenges and opportunities for keeping our parks and public spaces in great shape. This is just the beginning of important work to ensure long-term sustainability and improvements for our community. Stay tuned for more updates!
 This Thursday, during the Metro Council meeting, I plan to publicly recognize the invaluable work of Family Resource and Youth Services Coordinators (FRYSCs) in Jefferson County Public Schools as part of FRYSC Week. These dedicated professionals play a critical role in ensuring students and families have the resources they need to succeed—whether it’s food, clothing, mental health support, or academic assistance.
FRYSCs are often the first line of support for many children in our community, working tirelessly to break down barriers to learning. I am proud to honor their commitment and service.
 Last week, I had the honor of joining Cub Scout Pack 51 as they worked towards earning their Citizenship Badge. What a great group of Scouts and Leaders! We had an engaging discussion about the importance of campaigning, voting, the responsibilities of Metro Council Members, and the duties of citizens.
One of the highlights of the evening was a mock vote on sample ballots for President. It was wonderful to see the Scouts actively participating, with some even writing in names on their ballots. The enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by these young individuals give me great hope for our future leaders.
It was a fantastic evening, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their learning experience. I look forward to seeing these Scouts continue to grow and make a positive impact in our community.
Check out this advertisement for homes in the Villa Anna section of Valley Station from 1956!
Credit: Courier-Journal
Zoning Change Meeting at Southwest Regional Library
Zoning Change Request – 5417 Valley Station Rd.
With a renewed focus on keeping the community informed about zoning change requests, we’re sharing the following update:
The owner of 5417 Valley Station Rd. is requesting C-2 zoning to operate an auto repair business. Before this request moves to the Planning Commission for review, the applicant must hold a neighborhood meeting to provide details and gather community input.
If you would like to have your voice heard, you can attend the Planning Commission meeting (which is another meeting, not this one) or submit comments to the Planning & Design case manager. More details on this process will be explained at the neighborhood meeting.
Neighborhood Meeting Details:
Date: February 19th
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Southwest Regional Library
We’ll continue sharing these updates to help keep you engaged in the process.
 
 Exciting Developments in District 25: The 25 for 25 Plan
Councilman Khalil Batshon is excited to announce the “25 for 25 Plan,” a bold roadmap to transform District 25 with 25 actionable goals that will enhance community life and foster growth. Here are ten key goals from this ambitious initiative:
1. Enhance Safety with Streetlights: Lease 20 strategically placed streetlights over the next five years to improve visibility and safety across District 25.
2. Open Nick Rodman Park: Launch Nick Rodman Park with a new playground, splash pad, and walking trail, creating a vibrant recreational space for families in District 25.
3. Expand Nick Rodman Park: Acquire land from MSD to quadruple the size of Nick Rodman Park, providing room for future development and new amenities for residents.
4. Improve Library Visibility: Install a new sign on Dixie Highway to make the community library more accessible and easier to locate.
5. Strengthen Community Connections: Establish two new Neighborhood Associations to empower residents and foster stronger local ties. *NOTE* Neighborhood Associations are voluntary and are different that HOAs.
6. Standardize Recovery Housing: Develop an ordinance to align recovery housing in the district with state regulations, ensuring consistency, accountability, and the elimination of bad actors in the space.
7. Adjust Transitional Housing Zoning: Update zoning language to protect neighborhoods and eliminate loopholes, while ensuring that transitional housing is located near essential resources for those in need.
8. Launch a Public-Private Partnership: Initiate at least one public-private partnership project to bring innovative solutions and resources to District 25.
9. Increase Representation: Identify and encourage 50 South End residents to serve on city boards and commissions, amplifying the district’s influence in decision-making.
10. Combat Predatory Lending: Draft and introduce legislation to define and limit predatory lending, protecting our community and its values.
Councilman Batshon has also established a newly formed District 25 Advisory Panel to guide and collaborate on the development of the remaining 15 goals. However, we need your input to ensure this plan reflects the priorities and needs of our entire community.
We encourage residents to share their ideas and feedback to help complete this transformative vision. Together, with your involvement, we can make the 25 for 25 Plan a success and create a brighter future for District 25.
Help Shape the Future of District 25: Take Our Survey!
Your feedback is crucial in ensuring that the initiatives we implement truly reflect the needs and aspirations of our community. By participating in this survey, you will have the opportunity to voice your opinions and contribute to the future development of District 25.
Survey Link: https://forms.office.com/r/xaZZqqxKWw
 Exciting Changes Ahead for Louisville’s Public Transit!
The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) is embarking on an ambitious project called TARC 2025: Moving Forward Together. This initiative aims to redesign Louisville’s public transit network to better meet the needs of our community and ensure long-term sustainability.
Driven by public input, TARC 2025 focuses on updating and innovating services to match current and future demands. This project addresses significant financial challenges and aims to create a more efficient and effective transit system.
You can review the changes here: https://www.ridetarc.org/proposed-service-adjustments-for-january-26-2025/
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