 Public Works Snow Crew
I’ve gotta brag for a second…our snow crew absolutely crushed it with the first snow fall of the season. I was out early checking roads across the South End and beyond, and honestly? They looked incredible. That extra brining they did ahead of time wasn’t just helpful it was a total game changer. Roads that usually give us grief were already clear, safe, and treated before most folks even poured their first cup of coffee. And those new snow-route maps? They did exactly what they were designed to do. The crews followed the updated routes perfectly and you could tell the coverage was on point, efficient, and citywide. If you see one of our snowfighters, give them a wave, a thank-you, whatever you’ve got.
The Metro Council met Thursday for its second to last meeting of the year. During the meeting we addressed several pieces of legislation and took time to recognize the University of Louisville students who have interned with the Metro Council over the past four months.
Meeting /Highlights
Ban on use of Masks by Federal Law Enforcement Agents (O-260-25): Councilman Lyninger (D-6) was able to get a party line vote in committee to support the passage of an ordinance that would ban federal police and other law enforcement from the use of masks while within the boundaries of Louisville Metro. This ordinance was in front of the full Metro Council on Thursday, where I joined all Republicans and a few of Democrats to stop this ordinance from getting final approval. This ordinance, which the sponsor stated would likely result in a court battle, would have ultimately been unenforceable, was also part of a larger political agenda that has little to no impact at home. The final vote count on this measure was 12 in favor, 13 opposed and 1 person voted present. I am thankful that I had enough colleagues with common-sense, who were willing and able to put a halt to this ordinance just as we did efforts to reduce our support for law enforcement in our budget process.
Persistent Illegal Activity Properties Ordinance Strengthened (O-272-25): This ordinance, which was the second part of our effort to reduce human trafficking and the organizations that support it, passed unanimously. The ordinance makes it clear that Code Enforcement Officers are able to cite those properties in violation of our laws. The ordinance also added massage facilities to the properties that are impacted. This ordinance and a previously passed law related to massage facilities are part of our “Safer Louisville Agenda” and are expected to improve the ability of Health Department and Code Enforcement Officials as they crack down on illicit actors.
FY25 Year End Budget Ordinance (O-283-25): Metro Louisville has closed its fiscal year 2025 with a net surplus of $9.5 million in the operating budget and $7.6 million in the capital budget which is being moved to the fiscal year 2026 capital and operating budgets to cover 33 existing or new projects or programs.
The operating items related to District 14 residents are:
· An additional $500,000 for Community Ministries throughout Metro
· $1,250,000 for rental assistance, affordable housing initiatives and down payment assistance
· $50,000 for overtime to address illegal ATV activity and destruction of property
· $120,000 to assist with enforcement of massage facilities ordinance
· $250,000 additional funding to Dare to Care for a total of $850,000
Capital projects related to District 14 residents included:
· $40,000 to improve the Veterans Monument at Southwest Government Center
. $1,000,000 additional for a new Swimming Pool at Sun Valley Community Center for a swimming pool for a total of $2,000,000
· $571,000 for Snow Removal Improvements
· $75,000 LMPD Lighting Pilot Project to reduce crime in targeted areas.
Industrial Revenue Bond for Churchill Downs (R-045-25)
Metro Council approved a resolution supporting an Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB) for Churchill Downs, authorized by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The IRB does not use Louisville Metro’s credit or obligate the city if Churchill Downs fails to pay. This financing will enable $200 million to $1 billion in capital improvements, including major renovations to First Turn Suites and Millionaires Row. After months of review regarding JCPS impact and investment scope, the resolution passed 18–7 (one present).
Looking Ahead...
Next week will be our final committee week of the calendar year. Our final meeting of the full Metro Council will be on Tuesday, December 16th at 6 p.m. The Metro Council, while open throughout the holiday season, will take a break from our regular meeting until after the new year. Our first meeting of the 2026 will be Thursday, January 8th. During that meeting members will select the president for the calendar year and address any pending legislation that is in need of passage.
This Saturday, Light Up Louisville returns bigger and brighter than ever!
I'm so excited to invite you to Downtown Louisville for an evening of free, festive fun. This Saturday, December 6 from 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Jefferson Square Park we'll have activities for the entire family, including:
 Video-Mapping Holiday Show on Metro Hall
Local, holiday shopping along the Mistletoe Market
Delicious bites at Frosty’s Food Court
Live entertainment across 2 stages
The magical Lots of Lights Parade (Starts at 6pm)
Free photos with Santa & Friends inside Santa's House
Free trackless train rides aboard the Jolly Jingle Express
A visit from the REAL Santa Claus!
A special finale show to close out Light Up Louisville & kick off the holiday season!
Fun, free activities for kids and so much more!
Light Up Louisville is the perfect way to ring in the holiday season with your loved ones, and we can't wait to see you there.
Sincerely,
Mayor Craig Greenberg
Get ready, Southend — it’s time to light up the holidays!
Join us on Sunday, December 7th, 2025 at the corner of 10300 Deering Rd & 5301 Valley Station Rd for a magical evening filled with:
🎅🏻 Santa & Mrs. Claus & The Grinch
🎶 Live music & holiday entertainment
🛍️ Local vendors & holiday shopping
🍔 Delicious food trucks
🎄 The big community tree lighting
🎁 Fun activities & giveaways for the whole family including bouncy houses and a kids craft tent!
✨ FREE to attend — bring your family, friends, and holiday spirit! ✨
 Road Closure- Light Up Valley Station
Road closures are going into effect at 9am along Valley Station Road and Deering Road. If this impacts your usual route, go ahead and start planning an alternate way in and out of the neighborhood.
Be sure to swing by Waverly Hills on December 13th for a free family Christmas night that’s honestly turning into one of my favorite traditions.
ENTRY FEE : bring a non-perishable food item to donate. (We’ll also gladly take new or gently used coats if you’d like to bring one!)
We’ve packed this thing out:
- Free cup of chili from Christi’s Café
- Free hot chocolate & coffee from Stomping Grounds
- Free DIY ornament station with Joyful Krafts
- Free face painting from Autumn’s Creations
- Free cookie decorating with Jesse’s Sweet Treats
- Pictures with Santa parents/guardians can snap photos right on their phones
And it keeps going…
- Southend Theatre Society will be in full costume reading Christmas stories every 45 minutes.
- Derby City Foam is bringing the outdoor fun and making it snow over Waverly Hills
- Christmas music, lights, and all the cozy vibes
A huge thank-you to Shirley’s Way for being a major sponsor and standing with us year after year. PRP fire department, and another big thank-you to Life Church for showing up strong with volunteers, plus the Southwest Festival crew and every single person who helps make this happen. ❤️
Come out, make memories, and kick off the season with us!
Event link:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1AHmB9dWzD/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Medora Elementary Turkey Trot
What started nearly 30 years ago with just 819 canned goods has grown into a tradition rooted deeply in love and service. And this year? Medora Elementary didn’t just meet their school-wide goal… they crushed it with a jaw-dropping 40,667 canned goods collected. Every single one of those items is going straight to Southwest Community Ministries, helping families right here in our part of the city. That’s impact. That’s community. That’s what happens when you teach kids early that kindness isn’t just a word it’s an action. Southwest Community Ministries serves hundreds of kids each month and gives away over 12,500 pints of food. Medora’s students are now the largest donation of the year. Let that sink in. Standing there today, watching these students celebrate something bigger than themselves… it was an honor. Truly. What a blessing to be part of this day and watch a younger generation leading with generosity, joy, and absolutely incredible spirit. Adults, we can learn a thing or two from these kids. Medora, you made District 14 proud. 🧡
 Turkey Drop
Turkey Drop hosted by The Louisville Dream Center and Life Church Louisville was a tremendous success, serving 800 families. We extend our sincere thanks to our incredible volunteers, as well as Shirley’s Way, Mike Mulrooney, and Charlie Mattingly for their generous support. Your dedication made it possible for families across our community to enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Cat of the Week-Tortitude
With her cutie little head-tilt and mildly spicy 'tude, she was labeled as a barn cat.. but maybe not? She could probably warm up.. she just needs a chance outta here. Tortitude is described as "a confused ol' lady" maybe she's just misunderstood around here? Toritude is a retired street cat that is looking for work or the sunny spot on the couch where she can be left alone (or again..maybe not?) She is around 10yrs old and gets along with other cats. Come meet Tortitude today at Animal House! 3516 Newburg Rd, Louisville, KY Open daily noon–6pm
Pet of the Week-Haymitch
This boy is friendly, joyful, and always ready to connect with you. Whether it’s greeting new people, showing off his sit and down skills, or trotting around on a nice walk Haymitch is ready to make your time together enjoyable. Haymitch loves a good sniffari, enjoys squeaky toys, and will proudly chase a tennis ball (returning it is optional, he says). He recently met a family with kids and absolutely soaked up every bit of attention ... total sweetheart status unlocked!!
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Fall Subsidy enrollment is available through Kentucky’s Community Action Network for eligible Kentucky households. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis through December 12, 2025, 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 cost 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% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
In Jefferson County, LIHEAP Fall Subsidy is available through the Louisville Metro Office of Social Services. Appointments are required in advance to apply. Eligible households can apply for one or both LIHEAP Subsidy and MSD’s EWRAP with one single appointment.
How to Apply
The toll-free automated appointment system is available twenty-four 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 502-991-8391 or visit online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com
Eligibility
- Jefferson County households within 150% of 2025-26 federal poverty guidelines
- Must be responsible for home heating costs or pay heating costs if utilities are included as an undesignated portion of rent.
- LIHEAP Subsidy is a one-time benefit. You do not need to have a past-due balance or disconnect notice to be eligible.
Documentation
- Proof of all household income for the preceding month (Social Security Award letter, pay stubs, etc. or proof of $0 income). Note: Zero Income forms are available at the Office of Social Services main office at 701 W. Ormsby Ave., Suite 201, as well as the seven LIHEAP locations listed here.
- Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
- Most current heating bill; or statement from your landlord if heating expenses are included in your rent; or statement from your utility company if you participate in a pre-pay electric program. Please bring the account number and name on the account for all heating fuel sources and electricity.
- For MSD’s EWRAP program, you will need proof of an active utility account with Louisville Water Company and MSD. (i.e. named customers with MSD, receiving metered water service for a property used solely for residential purposes, and owned or leased by the customer as principal residence).
For more information about this process on how to apply for LIHEAP or the MSD discount programs, please contact Metro311 by simply dialing 311 or 574-5000, email metro.call@louisvilleky.gov, visit the website’s Online Customer Service or Live Chat at www.louisvilleky.gov/metrocall, or download the free Mobile 311 app from the website.
The Louisville Metro Council and District 14 have teamed up with the Association of Community Ministries to host a Holiday Food Drive collecting essential foods for those most in need this season. All donations will go to the Association of Community Ministries to be divided among the 13 Area Community Ministries.
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WHEN: November 14 – December 9
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WHERE: You may drop off your food donations at:
- Main donation site - City Hall, 601 W. Jefferson Street, 40202
- Local donation site - Sun Valley Community Center & PRP Fire Station 8508 Terry Rd, Louisville, KY 40258
- Canned chicken/tuna
- Boxed or dry milk
- Canned items (stew, chili, soup, tomatoes)
- Ramen
- Pasta and pasta sauce
- Cereal
- Oatmeal packets
- Rice
- Beans
- Cooking oil
Can't drop off food but want to donate monetarily? Visit: https://www.louisvilleministries.org/ and click "Donate to ACM" to give. Please call 574-1117 with any questions or for more information.
For more information about Snow Operations, visit Snow Removal | LouisvilleKY.gov
National Wreaths Across America Day is December 13, 2025 at 12 p.m. (Wreath Placement Immediately Following Ceremony) at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery. We're getting closer to our goal, and we need your help to make sure every veteran's grave at our local cemetery is honored with a wreath.
Every December, National Wreaths Across America Day brings the mission—Remember, Honor, and Teach—to life. Volunteers coordinate wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and more than 5,200 locations across all 50 states, at sea, and abroad, honoring the service and sacrifice of our nation's veterans. Last year, more than 3 million veteran wreaths were placed nationwide!
At Zachary Taylor National Cemetery, there are 11,400 veterans to honor. The goal is to place 11,400 wreaths this year and the total is at 57% currently. Your support can make all the difference! Each wreath you sponsor get makes it one step closer to honoring every veteran at this location.
Sponsor wreaths today by visiting KYZTNL - Zachary Taylor National Cemetery and clicking the Red Sponsor button. Thank you for helping honor every American hero—your support makes a meaningful difference!
 Louisville Parks and Recreation’s 2026 annual golf passes are now available just in time for holiday gifting. Golfers can once again enjoy unlimited golfing at all ten Louisville Parks and Recreation golf courses. Information about each course can be found here.
A seven-day unlimited play pass, good for weekends and holidays, is available for $500. A five-day pass (Monday–Friday only) is $425. Passes cover green fees for the 2026 calendar year (January 1 – December 31); a user fee is assessed each time a pass is used. Prices vary by course, and dynamic pricing may apply during peak playing times.
New annual pass holders will need to obtain a photo ID at the Louisville Parks and Recreation administrative office located in Joe Creason Park at 1297 Trevilian Way. Passes may also be purchased online at bestparksever.com.
In addition to golf passes, Louisville Parks and Recreation offers several holiday shopping options through the gift shops at Jefferson Memorial Forest, Riverside, The Farnsley-Moremen Landing, and Historic Locust Grove. The Olmsted Parks Conservancy also features an online gift shop.
Win a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus or $40,000 in cash while making a meaningful impact in the community. Only 2,025 tickets will be sold in honor of the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus. The drawing will take place on Tuesday, January 9, 2026, at 11 AM. Every raffle ticket supports the Louisville Metro Police Foundation’s Officer in Distress Fund and directly benefits the men and women of LMPD through emergency assistance, wellness programs, critical training, and essential equipment. Scan the QR Code above or call (502) 409-9563 for more information or purchase a ticket.
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