District 22 E-Newsletter - February 17, 2026

d22 banner - councilman bratcher

Councilman Kevin Bratcher
601 West Jefferson Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502.574.1122

IMPORTANT NUMBERS:

LMPD 7th Division: 574-2133

LMPD Non-emergency: 574- 2111

Fern Creek Fire Dept.: 239-7075

Metro Call: 311 or 574-5000

Metro Animal Services: 473-7387

Metro Codes & Regulations: 574-2508

Metro Public Works: 574-5810

Metro Parks: 574-7275

Louisville Water Company: 583-6610

MSD: 540-6000

LG&E: 589-1444

TARC: 585-1234

South Central Regional Library: 964-3515

In this edition...


Child Advocacy Center Visit

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Visited Kosair Charities Child Advocacy Center for an informative tour with President Elea Fox. I also had the chance to meet Emmie, the center’s wonderful resident service dog.

What they do at the center is  truly the Lord’s work — helping children who are facing some of the most difficult and heartbreaking situations imaginable. The center works hand in hand with LMPD and does an outstanding job serving and protecting our community’s most vulnerable during terrible situations.


February is American Heart Month: Learn CPR

AHA

February is recognized as American Heart Month, serving to increase awareness about cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States, and to promote heart-healthy habits. Established in 1964, this observance encourages people to manage risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol through diet, exercise, and regular check-ups.

The American Heart Association has set a target to double the survival rate from cardiac arrest by 2030. To save more lives from the approximately 350,000 cardiac arrests that occur outside of hospitals each year, it is crucial to enhance the number of individuals who respond to these emergencies by calling 911, providing high-quality CPR, and using an AED as soon as it becomes available.

In cardiac emergencies, the initial responder is often an everyday bystander rather than a uniformed professional. Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, such as at the gym, in grocery stores, or during children's sports events. However, bystanders only intervene about 40% of the time, often due to uncertainty or lack of training.

It is not necessary to have medical training to save a life; what is needed is knowledge, courage, and the willingness to act.

Joining the Nation of Lifesavers is easier than ever with many learning options

-- Source:  American Heart Association


Countywide Gun Lock Giveaway to Protect Kids

In response to the recent tragic deaths of two local teenagers, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is launching a countywide gun lock giveaway program aimed at improving firearm safety and preventing accidental shootings involving children.

“No matter where you stand on gun ownership or gun control, this is not about politics — it’s about prevention and saving lives,” said Chief Deputy Col. Steve Healey. “During my years in law enforcement, I’ve seen the devastating aftermath of these tragedies far too often. If a simple gun lock can save even one child’s life, then this effort is worth it.”

This gun safety initiative follows the accidental shooting deaths of a 14-year-old boy last month and a 15-year-old boy last week. As part of the program, JCSO will distribute free gun locks at community events and at all JCSO car inspection locations, increasing access to life-saving safety tools throughout the county.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between:

  • The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office
  • Taylor Augusta French Henry, Miss Heartland, a gun safety advocate and leader in suicide prevention and mental health awareness, who focuses on protecting youth and promoting responsible firearm storage

In addition to providing gun locks, JCSO will distribute gun safety flyers with clear, practical guidance on safe storage and responsible firearm ownership. The goal is to raise awareness, encourage action, and ultimately save lives.


Meeting/Survey about Truck Traffic in Louisville

Truck Traffic meeting

Louisville Metro’s Department of Transportation will host an additional public meeting to gather community feedback as part of the Freight Mobility Action Plan.

The open house-style meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Edison Center, 701 W. Ormsby Avenue. This session provides another opportunity for residents to share their experiences and concerns related to truck traffic in their neighborhoods. Attendees may stop by at any time during the meeting to participate in informal, conversational discussions with the project team.

The Freight Mobility Action Plan is being developed in partnership with HDR Engineering, Inc. The plan aims to better understand how freight movement interacts with neighborhoods and to identify action steps that support a preferred freight network across Jefferson County while reducing impacts to residential areas.

For those unable to attend in person, the online public survey has been extended through March 6. Feedback collected through the meeting and survey will help shape safer, more efficient truck routes and reduce disruptions to neighborhoods across Louisville Metro.

The survey can be accessed here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JB6NFNN

Residents are encouraged to participate and help inform the future of freight movement in Louisville.


FCWC Fundraiser at Bubba's 33 - Feb 26th

2026-02 FCWC

Fern Creek Chamber Luncheon - March 3rd

kelley paul

Metro Government Career Fair - March 10th

Louisville Metro Government continues its push to find individuals eager to give back to their community, hosting a career fair allowing the public to interact with over 25 Metro Government departments looking to fill over 55 vacant positions. The event will be held on Tuesday, March 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Louisville Slugger Field, 501 East Market Street.
Ernestine Booth-Henry, Director of Human Resources for Metro Government, is happy for this opportunity for the public to meet face-to-face with representatives of every Metro Government department. “We have so many different agencies doing so many good things for our community, that everyone will be able to find a career opportunity that fits their experience level and life interests,” she said. “And when you consider how Metro Government touches the lives of every person in Louisville in so many ways, a career with Metro provides far more than just a job opportunity. It’s a way to live a life of service.”
The fair will provide the public the chance to ask questions of hiring managers from all Metro Government departments and to apply for positions on-site. Job openings cover a huge range of skills and interests, and all levels of experience and education. People are encouraged to bring their resumes.

For additional information, contact a Louisville Metro Government Talent Acquisition Coordinator at TandRHiring@louisvilleky.gov.


Blood Drive - March 13th

2026-03 Blood Drive

Louisville Home Repair Hotline

Louisville Home Repair Hotline

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

VITA1

VITA2

Option 1 - Volunteer-Supported Tax Preparation

  • Income Limit: $66,000 or less
  • What We Offer: Free, volunteer-supported tax preparation and e-filing
  • Required Documents:
    • Picture ID (for you and your spouse, if filing jointly)
    • Social Security cards for all individuals on your return
  • When: Year-round by appointment
  • Locations & Hours: Find a location

Option 2 - Self-Filing through MyFreeTaxes

  • No Income Limit: Open to everyone, but best for simple returns
  • What We Offer: Free e-filing through H&R Block & United Way's MyFreeTaxes
  • How to Use: Follow a guided process to e-file your federal and state returns
  • Start Here: Click here to Begin

Friends of the Fern Creek Library

Throo the Zoo 5k Run/Walk

The Louisville Zoo is excited to announce that Throo the Zoo registration is now open. This most unique 5K is a great way to kick off 2026 with a goal you can run toward.

“I’m excited for our community to come together for another year of Throo the Zoo,” said Mayor Greenberg. “This beloved tradition is one that every member of the family can enjoy whether you are running, walking, or strolling past your favorite animals while supporting our world-class zoo.”

Louisville’s wildest 5K takes place at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 9. The annual event is a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing participants to run or walk through the Zoo while supporting its mission to “better the bond between people and our planet.”

The Throo the Zoo 5k Run/Walk takes participants on a chip-timed course that winds through the Zoo’s exhibits, offering views of some animals including bears, giraffes and sloths. The event welcomes runners and walkers of all fitness levels, including guests with strollers.  To register/secure your spot for this important Zoo fundraiser, go to louisvillezoo.org/throo.

Registration fee timetable:

Through February 28: $35.     /     March 1 – 31: $40.     /     April 1 – May 8: $45              Race-day registration on May 9 will cost $55.

Registration includes a t-shirt with an option to upgrade to a tech shirt for an additional fee, commemorative finishers medals, post-race refreshments and a ticket to return to the Zoo for a future visit.

Virtual Option:  For those unable to attend in person or who prefer to complete the distance at another location, the Zoo offers a Throo the Zoo Virtual 5K. Virtual participants can run or walk the 5K on their time and course, and they will receive a finisher’s medal and a Zoo ticket for a future visit.  Virtual 5K timetable:

Pricing for the virtual option:   

$25 through February 28  /   March 1 – 31: $30   /   April 1 – May 9: $35


JCSO's 2026 Drug Take Back Pop-Up Events

Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Announces 2026 Drug Take Back Events

Safe. Simple. No questions asked.

Clearing out your medicine cabinet just got easier.  The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), in partnership with the Louisville Waste Management District, is announcing several Drug Take Back events scheduled throughout 2026, giving residents multiple opportunities to safely and responsibly dispose of unused, expired, or unwanted prescription medications.

These pop-up events are designed to help prevent prescription drug misuse, protect children and pets and keep harmful substances out of our waterways — all while offering a fast, free and anonymous way to do the right thing.

“Unused medications sitting at home can quickly become a public safety issue,” said Major Matt Salsman, Director of JCSO’s Criminal Interdiction Division. “These events make it easy for people to take action and remove that risk.”

All events are expected to run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and no appointment is necessary. Residents can simply drive up, drop off medications and drive away.

Tentative 2026 Drug Take Back Dates & Locations:

• March 21 — Sun Valley

• April 11 — UofL Shelby Campus

• May 16 — Shawnee Park

• June 13 — Doss High School

• July 18 — Fern Creek High School

• August 22 — Metro Fleet

• September 19 — Sun Valley

• October 17 — Metro Fleet

• November 14 — UofL Shelby Campus

Please note: dates and locations are subject to change as permits are finalized. Additional pop-up events may be added throughout the year.

Residents are encouraged to follow the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office on social media and visit www.jcsoky.org for the latest updates, reminders and event details as each date approaches.

Together, we can reduce misuse, protect our community and keep Jefferson County safe — one drop-off at a time.


Planning & Zoning Updates

9223 Fern Creek Road (25-ZONEPA-0077) - This proposal is being reviewed and decided by the Planning Commission on Thursday, February 19th.  Planning Commission cases will start being heard at 1:00pm.  Location: Old Jail Building - 514 W Liberty Street.  A neighborhood meeting about a proposed zoning change request at this location occurred on October 1st. This property, which lies just off Fernhill Drive and was established in the 1930s as the first Methodist Church in Fern Creek and has continued to be a church until December 2018.  The existing building is centered on the property, surrounded by established parking and green space that buffer it from adjacent residences.  Highpoint Church has since outgrown the building and is under contract to sell the property to D & L to facilitate future commercial re-development.  While the specific end use has not yet been identified (nor is their current proposed use), D & L intends to re-develop and market the property for uses such as office, professional or business-oriented uses.  To provide these opportunities for future commercial re-development, a zone change from the current R-5 to C-N Neighborhood Commercial is required.   For more information about the nature of this proposal, next steps in the process, and how to participate or comment for the public record, contact Case Manager Jay Luckett (jay.luckett@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-5159).  All comments for the public record must be submitted prior to the Planning Commission meeting.

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7801 Delightful Way 40291 (Case 25-CUP-0237 and 25-CUP-0238) - Testimony was presented to the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BOZA) on Monday, February 2nd.  Because BOZA did not have sufficient members present for a decision, it was to be decided on February 16th.  However, on that date, the first vote regarding the proprietary club CUP was a 2-2 tie with 2 abstentions for not reviewing the case.  The case will now be reviewed and acted upon in its next meeting on Monday, March 2nd.  BOZA cases will start being heard at 1:00pm.  Location: Old Jail Building - 514 W Liberty Street.  A neighborhood meeting to discuss a development proposal for this property (a proposed zoning change from R-4 to C-2) was held on Wednesday, September 17th.  On December 8th, a second neighborhood meeting for this property was held (no longer a zoning change, but a Conditional Use Permit within R-4 zoning).  The new proposal is to request two Conditional Use Permits for the property.  Operating under Healthy ADHC of Louisville, LLC, the established owner and operator of multiple adult daycare facilities in the Louisville community plans to use the existing building on this property to operate both an adult daycare facility and an event center.  No new construction is proposed to the existing building at this time.  To provide these necessary community services to the area within the current R-4 zoning, two Conditional Use Permits are required.  For more information about the nature of this proposal and how to comment for the public record, contact Case Manager Amy Brooks (amy.brooks@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-8215). 

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9911 & 10019 Wingfield Road (Case 25-ZONE-0027) will be scheduled for a review and decision by the Planning Commission on Thursday, March 5th.  Planning Commission cases will start being heard at 1:00pm.  Location: Old Jail Building - 514 W Liberty Street.  This case was reviewed by the Land Development & Transportation Committee (LD&T) on January 8, January 22nd and February 12th.  Most recently, LD&T concluded that though this case still has not resolved an issue with MSD, it would proceed back to the Planning Commission.  Previously, this case had the neighborhood meeting on February 25, 2025 at the Fern Creek Community Center. This proposal is the intended extension of commercial use of Southpointe Blvd up against I-265, including a Hy-Vee store and other retail entities. A technical review for this Change in Zoning case (from R-4 single family residential to C-2 commercial) and a Form District Change (from Neighborhood to Regional Center with a Revised Detailed District Development Plan and Waiver) was held by the Land Development & Transportation Committee (LD&T) on August 14th and again on August 28th.  On September 18th, the Planning Commission returned this case back to LD&T to sort out difficulties with preliminary MSD approval before the Planning Commission will hear the full case.  For more information about the nature of this proposal, next steps in the process, and how to participate or comment for the public record, contact Case Manager Jay Luckett (jay.luckett@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-5159).  All comments for the public record must be submitted prior to the Planning Commission meeting.

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6422 & 6808 Billtown Road.  A second neighborhood meeting was held on December 22, 2025 to share details of a revision of "Tract 4 to allow a 240-unit apartment community on approximately 13.9 acres."  The original neighborhood meeting was on September 10, 2024.  That "general plan", including the tract for apartments, was approved by the Planning Commission on April 24, 2025.  According to the applicant, "The site has not significantly changed from what was originally presented.  The site still has 10 apartment buildings with a clubhouse and 240 units."   If you have questions about comparing the original and updated plans, contact Kaitlin Dever, case manager with the Office of Planning, at 502-574-5542 or kaitlin.dever@louisvilleky.gov.

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7800,7902, 7916, 8000 & 8014 Bardstown Road, 10501 & 10541 Ichabod Drive and 9809 Hillock Drive.  A Neighborhood Meeting to discuss a zoning change proposal affecting these locations was held on December 3rd.  Representative(s) for the applicant shared a proposed change in zoning from R-4 & R-5A to C-1 & C-2 and a Revised Detailed District Development Plan to allow a multi-tenant commercial development to be located at the addresses listed above.  The applicant is proposing a grocery store, three retail stores, a retail strip center with a restaurant, a convenience gas station store, two banks, a credit union, a coffee shop, four restaurants, each with a drive thru, and work around a future restaurant.  Next, the applicant may submit a formal proposal for agency review.

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10100 Black Iron Road, 10200 Glenmary Farm Drive and an unaddressed parcel on Long Home Road (assigned Parcel ID Number (2527-000C-0000) (Case 25-CUPPA-0185) - A neighborhood meeting was held on Wednesday, November 12th.  The Owners/Applicants, pursuant to Land Development Code Section 4.2.8 - Athletic Facilities, desire to locate and operate a Disc/Soccer Golf Course Facility on the Property which was previously used as the Glenmary Golf Course (the "Proposal").  The Property totals over 70.2229 acres, but the Owner/Applicant requests only 45.9 acres to be considered for the Conditional Use Permit.  The Proposal includes 18 soccer/disc holes, a clubhouse and parking.  The Proposal includes a new 11,000 square foot clubhouse as the central location for disc and soccer golf players to meet up with other players and pay for their respective rounds of disc or soccer golf prior to playing.  The new clubhouse would be conveniently accessed from Glenmary Farm Drive, a local neighborhood roadway that directly connects to Bardstown Road, an arterial level roadway.  Parking adjacent to the new clubhouse is proposed.  

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Property at the end of Justice Way in the City of Heritage Creek (Parcel Number 0008602130000) - A neighborhood meeting was held on October 15th.  Leisure Development is requesting approval of a Major Preliminary Subdivision Plan with Development Potential Transfer in the property at the end of Justice Way.  For more information about the nature of this proposal, next steps in the process, and how to participate or comment for the public record, contact Case Manager Rachel Casey (rachel.casey@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-6230). 

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REMINDER: One beneficial and convenient way for you to share your thoughts on a case (to be part of the public record) is to use this form.


Louisville Metro Snow Operations Information


2025 snow

For more information about Snow Operations, visit Snow Removal | LouisvilleKY.gov


Network of Assistance across Louisville Metro

Association of Community Ministries 1

Do you know people who need assistance (whether in District 22 or in other parts of Louisville Metro)? 

Click here for information on the Association of Community Ministries. 

On this site, click on "Find Your Ministry" to explore the local community help available for any Jefferson County address.


For further information about District 22...

For further information about District 22

or to contact Councilman Kevin Bratcher or Legislative Assistant Jon Bingham,

please visit:

https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council-district-22


Report a Pothole

Pothole

Four snow events this season, repeated freezing and thawing, and winter road treatments have taken a toll on Louisville Metro streets. These harsh conditions weaken pavement and lead to potholes.

In 2025 alone, Louisville Metro's Department of Transportation filled more than 48,860 potholes.

Reporting potholes helps crews respond more quickly, keeping roads safer and smoother for everyone throughout the winter months.

You can report potholes by:

Calling Metro311 or 502-574-5000 to report potholes or other service issues


Recycle Coach App search tool

If you've ever wondered how to dispose of something correctly, you're not alone! Our Recycle Coach app search tool makes it easier than ever to figure out what goes where. Whether you're unsure how to dispose of an old piece of furniture, leftover construction materials, or everyday household items, the tool gives clear, Louisville-specific guidance in seconds. Just type in any item and you'll see whether it belongs in your recycling cart, should be taken to a drop-off site, or requires special handling. It's a simple way to reduce confusion, prevent contamination, and make sure more materials are managed responsibly. 

In 2025, televisions topped the list as the most‑searched item in the Recycle Coach tool. Close behind were other common household challenges: household batteries, styrofoam packaging inserts, and construction and remodeling materials.

Check out the top 10 most‑searched items of 2025:

Recycle Coach App Info

Download the free Recycle Coach app to get waste collection and drop‑off event reminders, learn collection requirements, take fun quizzes, and — of course — use the What Goes Where search tool.


Keep our Recycling Drop-Off Sites clean

Keep drop-offs clean

Our community is committed to making recycling easy, accessible, and impactful — and you play a vital role in keeping the system running smoothly. With 15 convenient drop‑off locations across the area, including 12 unstaffed sites and three staffed centers, recycling has never been more accessible. A few simple habits can help ensure these sites stay clean, safe, and efficient for everyone.

Place all recyclables inside the dumpsters — and never on the ground. 

One of the most important ways to support our recycling program is also one of the simplest: always place your recyclables inside the designated dumpsters. Items left on the ground quickly become litter, create safety hazards, and require additional cleanup. When materials are collected off the ground, they’re often mixed with trash by a separate crew — meaning they go to the landfill instead of being recycled. Keeping everything inside the containers ensures more material gets a second life.

Plan ahead and be mindful of service schedules. 

Drop‑off sites tend to be busiest after weekends and holidays, and dumpsters can fill more quickly during those times. If you arrive and see that all containers are full, please check another location or return later rather than leaving items outside the bin. Our crews service the dumpsters daily to keep materials moving and prevent overflow, though holiday schedules may shift slightly. A little planning helps keep sites tidy and ensures the system works efficiently for everyone.

Find a location near you. 

With 15 drop‑off sites across the community, there’s likely a convenient option nearby. You can find a full map of locations and hours at Louisvilleky.gov/RecycleMap.

Small actions, big impact! 

Your recycling habits truly make a difference. By keeping sites clean, avoiding peak times, and placing items inside the dumpsters, you help ensure more material is actually recycled — and you help keep our community green.

Thank you for being part of the solution and supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future.


Option: Connect to the LMPD Camera Network

Cameras with LMPD

Be LouReady

Louisville Metro Emergency Services is proud to launch LouReady, a vital new tool to help families stay safe and informed during emergencies. LouReady empowers residents with real-time alerts, safety tips, and community contacts—so you can act fast and make smart decisions when it matters most.

Preparedness starts at home. With LouReady, you can:

  • Receive location-based alerts for severe weather, public safety threats, and community-wide emergencies in connection with our already active alert method LENSAlert, Louisville Emergency Notification System.
  • Build a family emergency plan with checklists for various types of emergency events
  • Access Safe Walk technology which allows you to share your live location with a trusted friend or family member via email or SMS
  • Know where to turn for help—LouReady connects you to maps, emergency contacts, city services through Metro 311, and recovery resources after emergency incidents
  • Monitor live weather updates with access to a live Downtown weather camera, the ability to monitor air pollution levels, and catch up on daily forecasts through the National Weather Services

Whether it’s a tornado warning or a hazardous materials incident, LouReady helps you stay one step ahead. Download the app today and take control of your family’s safety—because preparedness starts with awareness. The app is currently available on the Apple Store for iPhones with IOS 15.6 or later, and in the Google Play Store, just search LouReady.

LMES3LMES4

Louisville Metro Smart 911

Smart911 allows individuals to create a personalized Safety Profile that instantly shares critical information with 911 Call Takers during an emergency. This can include medical conditions, pet information, family details, and access instructions—helping first responders arrive faster and better prepared, especially if the caller is unable to speak. It enhances emergency response, improves safety outcomes, and gives peace of mind knowing help can be tailored to your needs. You can sign up for free on Smart911.com or by texting 'LENSAlert' to 67283. LENSAlert stands for Louisville Emergency Notification System.

LMES2

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

988

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is open and accessible 24/7. This free and confidential service connects individuals with trained crisis counselors who can provide support, guidance, and resources.

  • 📞 Dial 988 to reach the Lifeline
  • 🌐 Available in English and Spanish
  • 🕒 Operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Pet(s) of the Week: Metro Animal Services

JamesP

Metro Animal Services

LMAS 1Metro Animal Services

Now Hiring: Traffic Guards

Hiring Traffic Guards

Join a Board or Commission

Apply to Serve

There are approximately 100 boards and commissions with many areas of interest, including business and economic development, land planning, parks and recreation, public health and public safety.

If you are interested in volunteering for one of Louisville Metro Government's Boards and Commissions, now is the time to start. By being a part of a board or commission, you will offer your time and your talents to improve the quality of life in our community.

To learn more please visit Boards and Commissions.


Crime Maps

 

Always Remember to

Lock Your Car and

Remove All Valuables.

It's the Easiest Way to

Prevent Crime.

Crime Maps logo

Click Here to view LMPD's interactive crime mapping tool.   

 If you see crime occurring, please contact the Louisville Metro Police Department.

Call 911 for emergencies.  Call 502-574-7111 for non-emergency related assistance.

Call 574-LMPD to report crime tips.


Neighborhood Watch Information

NW

Off-Duty Neighborhood Patrols

Here is a message from LMPD's 7th Division:

There are off-duty services that can be utilized in your neighborhoods/areas to provide extra security/patrol. As patrol platoons are spread thin some nights due to manpower issues it is difficult to be in every neighborhood at once. If your neighborhood or apartment complex is interested in off-duty services, feel free to contact Metro Blue Line Services at 502-639-5786. This is only an additional tool to keep your residents protected and the on-duty patrol units will continue to patrol the best they can as they are fully aware of the current issues. 

Please continue to call in your suspicious activity reports as they are helping us greatly. Thank you.


If You Suspect a Natural Gas Leak...

Gas Leak

Call 811 Before You Dig!

811