Councilman Ken Herndon
601 W. Jefferson Street
(502) 574-1104
Email Ken

Taylore Bass
Legislative Assistant
(502) 574-3453
Email Taylore
About Taylore

Jackie Floyd
Neighborhood Liaison
About Jackie

Jeff Noble
Staff Assistant
About Jeff

In This Issue...

• Honoring Black History Month
• D4 Open Office Hours
• Honorary Street Sign Unveiling, Joe Hammond
• D4 Life Skills Initiative : Chess Club
• Councilman Herndon Condemns Racist Post by President Donald Trump
• Cafe Louie: Meet Your Legislators
• Metro Council Meeting, Tomorrow
• Notice of Public Hearing
• LMPD 2026 Crime Reduction Strategic Plan
• Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
• Department of Public Health and Wellness
• Office of Sustainability
• LIHEAP Assistance is Open
• MSD - Emergency Wastewater Rate Assistance Program
• Black History Month Events
• Team Kentucky
• 2026 Internships
• Louisville Home Repair Hotline
• Office For Aging/Disabled Citizens
• Louisville Metro Animal Services
• Office of Violence Prevention
• Louisville Parks and Recreation
• MAHJONG NIGHT at United Crescent Hill Ministries
• Frazier Kentucky History Museum Events
• Habitat For Humanity Workshops
• Russell Neighborhood Community Land Trust
• Louisville Grows
• Free Tax Preparation
• Community Events
• Grant Writing Workshops

Honoring Black History Month

Each February, we recognize Black History Month—a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and invaluable contributions of Black Americans throughout our nation’s history. It is both a celebration and a reminder of the ongoing work needed to advance equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

D4 Open Office Hours

Councilman Ken Herndon  will begin hosting quarterly open office hours starting in February. These in‑person sessions are designed to give residents a chance to speak one‑on‑one with Councilman Herndon and staff, share concerns, ask questions, and offer ideas to help strengthen the district.

February Open Office Hours

• Tuesday, February 17 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. West Louisville Opportunity Center 2820 W. Broadway Street

• Wednesday, February 18 11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Downtown Louisville Opportunity Center 909 E. Broadway Street

Honorary Street Sign Unveiling, Joe Hammond

Councilman Ken Herndon will unveil an honorary street name sign for Joe Hammond, owner of Joe’s Palm Room and community and civic engagement advocate.

The corner of 18^th and Jefferson Streets will be named “Joe Hammond Way” in his honor.

Learn more about Joe Hammond and his vision at, https://www.joehammond.org/

Read the full resolution at https://louisvilleky.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=227937&uid=9823f5d5-132d-433d-81e3-34d57747d900&type=2

D4 Life Skills Initiative : Chess Club

Councilman Ken Herndon (D‑4) is excited to announce the launch of the District 4 Life Skills for Youth Chess Club, a free program open to young people living in Council District 4.

The six‑week club will meet weekly and rotate among four District 4 neighborhoods. Councilman Herndon encourages youth across the district to take part.

“I’m thrilled to announce the first meetings for the D4 Chess Club,” said Herndon. “Please share this information with your neighbors and friends and take advantage of an opportunity to learn a new skill that can benefit you in all parts of your life. Chess teaches patience, critical thinking, and it’s a lot of fun.”

A total of $13,500 has been allocated to support this initiative. The club will be led by Corbin Seavers, a longtime chess advocate and instructor.

Informational Meeting Dates

• Tuesday, February 17 at 5:00 p.m. Smoketown Chess Club, Camp Edward’s Complex 701 South Hancock Street

• Thursday, February 19 at 4:30 p.m. Liberty Green Chess Club 500 East Jefferson Street

• Thursday, February 26 at 5:00 p.m. Baxter Community Center 1125 West Liberty Street

• Friday, February 27 at 5:00 p.m. California Community Center 1600 St. Catherine Street

This initiative is designed to keep kids’ minds active while teaching valuable life skills.

Councilman Herndon Condemns Racist Post by President Donald Trump

Cafe Louie: Meet Your Legislators

Metro Council Meeting, Tomorrow

Tomorrow, Councilman Herndon will be recognizing the Men Against Gun Violence at the Metro Council Meeting. The Men Against Gun Violence was founded September 22, 2021 after the tragic loss of 16-year-old Tyree Smith, who was shot and killed while waiting for his school bus.

This group are men taking action — showing up at JCPS bus stops every morning and afternoon to ensure that our kids get to school safely and return home without fear.

Thank you for your commitment to safety for our youth!

One can review the Agenda for the Metro Council meeting at: https://louisvilleky.primegov.com/public/portal?fromiframe=true. 

Notice of Public Hearing

LMPD 2026 Crime Reduction Strategic Plan

Jefferson County Sheriff's Office

Department of Public Health and Wellness

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is responsible for ensuring the health and safety of the community and individuals within it. Part of this responsibility includes investigating cases of contagious diseases which may pose risks to individual and community health. When an individual tests positive for or has been exposed to one of more than 50 diseases designated as reportable by the Kentucky Department of Health, the staff at LMPHW must contact the individual and investigate the case and potential exposures to others in the community.

If you receive a call from LMPHW, it’s natural to have questions. These calls are an important part of protecting individual and community health—and understanding why we reach out can help put your mind at ease.

We may contact you for a variety of reasons, including:

• You tested positive for, or were exposed to, a contagious disease.
• We are conducting contact tracing to break the chain of transmission and help prevent further spread of the disease
• You recently traveled to an area with a health advisory. Health advisories are issued by public health agencies to provide urgent information about immediate or potential health threats to the public and health professionals. The goal of a health advisory is to tell people of the actions they need to take to protect their health and reduce exposure to risks of illness.
• We want to make sure you have important information and are getting the care you need.  We can also connect you to supportive services.

Our goal is always prevention, education, and support.

How do I know the call is legitimate?

Calls from LMPHW come from official Louisville Metro Government phone numbers, which typically begin with 502-574-XXXX. If you’re unsure, you can hang up and call the official number listed on the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness website to confirm (502-574-6520).

What information might we ask you for?

During a public health investigation, we may ask questions to better understand your exposure to a contagious disease and how to reduce the risk of spreading it. This can include:

• Basic patient information (name, date of birth, address)
• Signs and symptoms
• Vaccine history
• Recent travel
• Close contacts
• Pre-existing medical conditions

We will NOT ask you for your social security number, citizenship status or any financial or credit card information or money.

Is my information shared with government entities?

Healthcare providers and public health agencies are legally required to report certain information to the state health department to ensure disease prevention and control. This reporting is focused on protecting public health—not enforcement. LMPHW as well as other public health agencies and healthcare providers are bound by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Why is it important that I respond?

Responding to the health department helps us:

• Prevent the spread of a contagious disease
• Protect public safety
• Connect individuals to care, testing, or resources
• Share accurate, timely health information with you and the community

Your participation plays a critical role in keeping not only you and your family safe but also our community.

How does my cooperation make a difference?

Your cooperation helps public health professionals make informed decisions related to:

• Early outbreak detection
• Contact tracing
• Quarantine and isolation guidance
• Vaccine education and outreach
• Targeted communication to specific communities and populations

Every response strengthens our ability to act quickly and effectively.

What if I don’t speak English?

We use Voiance Language Services, a secure interpretation service available 24/7 in more than 200 languages, ensuring clear and confidential communication for everyone we serve. We also have several qualified medical interpreters on our team.

Office of Sustainability

The Office of Sustainability (OS), Parks Alliance of Louisville, J Wagner Group, and other partners are bringing back Earth Fest - a Louisville Earth Month kickoff event. This community festival will feature food, music, performances, art, sustainability activities, and local resources - all in celebration of our planet.

Event details:

 Saturday, March 28, 2026

 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

 Alberta O. Jones Park

Learn more and get involved.

Grow in Your Neighborhood

Part One of the Grow in your Neighborhood Workshop was a success! 

The recording of this info-session will be posted for folks to use. The next part of the workshop will be on February 21st from 1-3pm where we will help walk folks through Grow in Your Neighborhood, Brownfields Testing, and Soil Testing application processes. 

Interested in a lease-to-own lot from the Landbank program?

Bring your partially completed, completed applications or your best ideas and questions and get help from an expert!  

LIHEAP Assistance is Open

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program(LIHEAP) Winter Crisis enrollment is available for eligible Kentucky households to offset winter heating costs or eviction. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis through March 27 or until designated funds have been depleted.

For electric or natural gas benefits, households must provide a past due notice, lease and eviction notice (if heat is included in rent), or a statement showing 10 or fewer days of pre-paid electricity left. Crisis benefits cover the minimum needed to alleviate the crisis, up to the maximum benefit of $400. Households can reapply until they reach their maximum benefit of $400. Benefits are paid directly to the household’s electric vendor.

Jefferson County residents wishing to apply may schedule an appointment utilizing the automated appointment system. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling (502) 991-8391 or online at louisvilleky cascheduler. The toll-free service is currently open and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Applicants will need to provide the following documentation:

• Proof of Social Security number or Permanent Residence card (green card) for each member of the household.
• Proof of income from the preceding month for all members of the household.
• Most current electric bill, statement from your landlord if electric is included in your rent, statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program.
• The account number and name on the account for main heating fuel sources and electric bill.

Assistance received during previous LIHEAP components does not affect a household's eligibility.

For more information, visit LIHEAP page. Residents may also call the automated LIHEAP information line at (502) 991-8391 or visit louisvilleky cascheduler

MSD - Emergency Wastewater Rate Assistance Program

Black History Month Events

February brings a full slate of programs, performances, and community gatherings honoring Black history, creativity, and achievement throughout the Louisville and Southern Indiana region. Here’s a curated look at what’s happening this month:

https://www.wdrb.com/community/black-history-month-2026-events-for-the-louisville-southern-indiana-area/article_79bbdbd8-0533-4073-a114-9218d19cf28d.html

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) is celebrating "A Century of Black History Commemorations" as the official theme for Black History Month 2026. This year marks a century since Dr. Carter G. Woodson established the first Negro History Week in 1926, renamed in 1976 as Black History Month. Though February serves as a national month of recognition, OACI celebrates the contributions made by Black individuals to modern culture year-round!

Read More on ASALH

Please mark your calendars for the 24th Annual Black History Month Program.

Thursday, February 26, 2026

12:00 p.m.

City Hall, 601 W. Jefferson Street or watch online: https://louisvilleky.primegov.com/public/portal

Join us at California Community Center for a special Black History Program celebrating stories, achievements, and lessons from the past.

This free event is open to youth ages 6–15 and offers an engaging evening of learning, reflection, and community connection. Come be part of a meaningful celebration that honors history and inspires the future!

Team Kentucky

2026 Internships

Louisville Home Repair Hotline

Office For Aging/Disabled Citizens

January 2026 Resource Guide

The January 2026 Edition of the OADC Resource Guide is complete. Click HEREto download the printable PDF version. For an accessible web version, click HERE 

If you have additional questions regarding the Resource Guide, please contact Alli at allison.woosley@louisvilleky.gov 

In 2026, the AARP Community Challenge will accept applications across three distinct grant opportunities, each evaluated using a consistent scoring approach. 

Flagship Grants

AARP’s flagship Community Challenge grants range from a few hundred dollars for short-term activities to $15,000 for larger initiatives. Since 2017, the average grant has been between $10,000 and $12,000. AARP reserves the right to award compelling projects at any amount. Eligible projects should benefit residents — especially those age 50 and older — in at least one of the following categories:

• Creating vibrant public places (i.e., parks, open spaces, community amenities)
• Expanding transportation and mobility options (i.e., walkability, bikeability, transit access)
• Increasing housing options (i.e., accessible and affordable choices)
• Enhancing digital connections and digital literacy
• Strengthening disaster resilience (i.e., disaster preparedness and mitigation)

Capacity-Building Microgrants

These $2,500 microgrants come with added support, including webinars, cohort learning, up to two hours of coaching from national nonprofit organizations working with AARP to support the AARP Community Challenge program, and AARP resources. Eligible projects should benefit residents — especially those age 50 and older — in at least one of the following categories:

• Walk Audits: Conduct walkability assessments with support from America Walks and using the AARP Walk Audit Tool Kit.  
• Bike Audits: Conduct bikeability assessments with support from The League of American Bicyclists and using the AARP Bike Audit Tool Kit.  
• HomeFit Modifications: Implement education, simple home modifications and accessible safety solutions to create and maintain “lifelong homes,” especially for people age 50-plus, with support from the RL Mace Universal Design Institute and using the AARP HomeFit Guide.
• Disaster Preparedness: Implement disaster preparedness training programs and resources for residents, especially those age 50-plus, with support from SBP and using the AARP Disaster Resilience Tool Kit. 

Demonstration Grants

These grants support projects that can be replicated in other communities. Awards typically range from $10,000 to $20,000 and will not exceed $25,000. Eligible projects should benefit residents — especially those age 50 and older — in at least one of the following categories:

• Pedestrian Safety: Improve the safety of streets and sidewalks; funding support from Toyota Motor North America.
• High-Speed Internet: Increase broadband access and adoption; funding support from Microsoft.
• Housing Design Competitions: Promote understanding and implementation of housing policies that support a variety of community needs using the AARP Housing Design Competition Tool Kit.

To apply click HERE

The University of Louisville Trager Institute is hosting a free six-week Diabetes Self-Management Program this March. This virtual course teaches skills that can help you control diabetes or pre-diabetes and avoid complications. At the end of the course, you will be equipped with the tools and strategies needed to improve your well-being and keep you healthy through the years. We’re offering two sessions to choose from for your convenience.

Session 1: Tuesdays, Mar. 3–Apr. 7 | 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET Session 2: Wednesdays, Mar. 4–Apr. 8 | 1–3:30 p.m. ET

To Register, Click HERE

Are you looking for supportive guidance and resources to reach your health and wellness goals?

Join Flourishing Together, a FREE 8-week community wellness program hosted by the University of Louisville Trager Institute, to get the support you need to create positive changes. This program will teach you helpful tips to optimize your health and overall well-being.

Participants can join virtually via Zoom every Thursday from Feb. 12 – Apr. 2, 1:30–3:30 p.m. OR 6:30–8:30 p.m.

To fill out the interest form, click HERE

Louisville Metro Animal Services

Office of Violence Prevention

Louisville Parks and Recreation

MAHJONG NIGHT at United Crescent Hill Ministries

 Wednesday, February 11 

 5:00 – 8:00 PM 

  150 S. State Street Louisville, KY 40206 

 $5 Donation Admission 

Proceeds support UCHM programs 

 All skill levels are welcome!

Bring a friend and enjoy a fun night of Mahjong. 

Frazier Kentucky History Museum Events

Join us for a pop-up day of camp at the Frazier Kentucky History Museum! Hosted on Presidents’ Day, we are going to dive into the stories of some of America’s first presidents. Campers will learn about the boyhood origins of America’s first President George Washington, make local connections to Kentucky-born President Abraham Lincoln, and more!

We would love to have your camper join us for this Presidential Pop-up!

ABOUT THE CAMP

Presidents’ Day Pop-Up Camp

Monday, February 16

Frazier Kentucky History Museum

Dropoff: 8:45–9:30 a.m.

Pickup: 3:30–4 p.m.

Ages: Open to Kids in Grades 1–5

Price: $65/day ($55/day for members!) (ask about our sibling discount!)

Register at fraziermuseum.org/camps.

Habitat For Humanity Workshops

Russell Neighborhood Community Land Trust

Louisville Grows

Free Tax Preparation

Community Events

The Louisville Urban League invites the community to attend Music for a Purpose, a FREE live music event featuring jazz pianist Kevin Harris. Music for a Purpose is a musician-led charitable concert series that promotes positive change and supports social justice organizations. For this series, they have graciously selected the Louisville Urban League as a beneficiary.

Music for a Purpose: Live Jazz Event

Featuring Kevin Harris

Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Kentucky Opera Center

708 Magazine Street Louisville, KY 40203

This event is free to the public, but you must register!

Ticket link: https://bit.ly/khmar1

Grant Writing Workshops

Grant Writing Workshops

Attend this two-day grant writing workshop and you will learn how to find the funding sources and write successful grant proposals. Beginning and experienced grant writers from city, county and state agencies, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, K-12, colleges, and universities are encouraged to attend. ZOOM WEBINARS February 5-6, 2026 | 8:00-3:00 PSTClick for event detailsMarch 12-13, 2026 | 9:30-4:30 ESTClick for event details

Grant Management Workshops

If your agency receives or plans to receive government grants, this class is for you.  Attend this two-day class and you will learn how to administer government grants and stay in compliance with applicable rules and regulations.  The Office of Management and Budget just released extensive updates to the Uniform Guidance. Learn Cost Principles, Audit Requirements, and how to stay in compliance.  We will highlight the key 2024 changes and how they impact grantees.  Beginning and experienced grant administrators, program managers and grant writers from all disciplines are encouraged to attend.  ZOOM WEBINAR

January 26-27, 2026 | 9:30-4:30 EST Click for event details

February 23-24, 2026 | 8:00-3:00 PST Click for event details

March 31-April 1, 2026 | 9:30-4:30 EST Click for event details

Managing Subawards Workshop

The Most Substantial Revisions to the Uniform Grants Guidance just took place. Are you prepared to manage and monitor your subawards?

Grant Management USA will present a one-day Managing Subawards workshop via a Live Zoom Webinar, October 28 2024. Attend this class and you'll learn how to manage and monitor your subawards. The Office of Management and Budget just released extensive updates to the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards Uniform Guidance. We will highlight the key 2024 changes and how they impact federal grant recipients that issue, monitor and manage subawards.

March 17, 2026 | 9:30-4:30 EST Click for event details

In-person training is also available. Please check out our full online calendar of events at https://grantwritingusa.com/events.html 

Grant Writing tuition is $525 per person, Grant Management workshop is $625 per person and the Subawards Workshop is $355. Payment is not required at time of registration. Discounts for Grant Writing USA alumni and nonprofits are also available. Please call for details. For friendly, personal service: Grant Writing USA Client Services 800.814.8191 cs@grantwritingusa.comIf you want to host a class in your area, give us a call at 702.592.7251