 For Immediate Release:
Bipartisan Louisville Leaders participated in “Common Ground” Workshop focused on shared values
Louisville (March 16, 2026) – Democratic and Republican members of the Louisville Metro Council met on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Highlands-Shelby Park Library to participate in a bipartisan Common Ground Workshop, designed to create an open discussion about shared values.
The workshop was based on the nationally recognized Braver Angels model and brought together members of the Majority and Minority Caucuses in a structured conversation focused on listening, learning, and identifying shared values within the community.
During the session, Council members engaged in a series of guided exercises to understand how personal experiences shape political viewpoints, while identifying areas of common ground. The workshop encourages members to move beyond partisan divides and work together on issues affecting the community.
Councilor Betsy Ruhe, who introduced the opportunity to the Metro Council and encouraged bipartisan participation, said the goal was to create space for respectful dialogue and collaboration.
“Too often we focus on what divides us,” said Ruhe. “This program reminds us to take the time to listen and learn from one another, we can find shared values and common ground that help us better serve our community.”
Participating Democratic Members were Councilwoman Shameka Parrish-Wright (D-3), Councilman Ken Herndon (D-4), Councilman Ben Reno-Weber (D-8), Councilman Andrew Owen (D-9), Councilwoman Josie Raymond (D-10), and Councilor Betsy Ruhe (D-21).
Participating Republican members were Councilman Kevin Kramer (R-11), Councilman Dan Seum, Jr (R-13), Councilwoman Marilyn Parker (R-18), Councilwoman Ginny Mulvey-Woolridge (R-24), and Councilman Khalil Batshon (R-25).
MetroTV provided video coverage of the event, view the full videocoverage and a short highlight video.
 For Immediate Release:
Metro Council Meeting Highlights for Thursday, March 12
Below is a recap of the regularly scheduled Metro Council meeting
Louisville – The Louisville Metro Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Below is a summary of key legislative actions and recognitions.
Top Actions from Tonight’s Meeting
- Approved contract for the restoration of the King Louie statue
- Provided authority for the Planning Commission to include the Council Review Binding Element when requested by Council
- Approved Neighborhood Development Funds for additional LMPD patrols, youth initiatives, cemetery maintenance, and non-profit initiatives
Old Business
- O-044-26: 11311 Taylorsville Road (DDD)
Approved a revised Detailed District Development plan to accommodate two garage spaces for each townhome
- O-045-26: 6325 Applegate Lane (Change in Zoning)
Approved a change in zoning from R-4 to Planned Residential to allow the lot to be subdivided into five lots with four townhomes and a shared parking area
- R-018-26: Council Review Binding Element
Requested the Planning Commission include the Council Review Binding Element when requested by the district Councilmember
- R-014-26: Restoration of King Louie Statue
Approved a $205,000 contract with Wiebold Studio to clean and treat
- O-050-26: District 10 Right-of-Way Improvements
Consolidated funding from capital projects for the Petersburg ROW Improvement project
- R-017-26: Sherriff to Obtain Patrol Rifles
Recognized the authority of the Sherriff to request a grant for patrol rifles
- Neighborhood Development Fund awarded to:
- LMPD 3rd Division for additional patrols around Southland Boulevard
- Metro Parks for Jefferson County Extension Office
- Mental Health Lou & You for Ally Toolkit Program
Consent Calendar
All items passed unanimously
- O-051-26: District 21 Sidewalk Improvements
Consolidated funding from past capital projects for sidewalk improvement projects
- R-016-26: Public Health Contract with Norton Healthcare
Approved a $60,000 contract to provide a qualified and licensed medical practitioner
- O-046-26: 4606 Melton Avenue (Closes Unimproved ROW)
Approved the consolidation of three lots and closure an unimproved right-of-way
- R-020-26: Accepting Funds for Southeast Louisville Connector Feasibility Study Project
Accepted $95,238 from the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
- O-052-26: Amends Chapter 156 regarding Illegal Drop-Off Bins
Established penalties and costs for the removal of illegal drop-off bins
- Neighborhood Development Funds to:
- Blueprint 502 for District 4 Life Skills Youth Initiative
- TreesLouisville for landscape maintenance for Schardein Cemetery
- Metro Parks for Gyms Not Jails Program
Watch the Meeting
Tonight’s Council meeting and attachments may be viewed onlineand on the Louisville Metro Council Facebook Page.
Next Meeting
The Metro Council will meet on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
 2026 Spring Break Camps
 Get ready for a week full of creativity, adventure, and making friends during our Spring Break programs, happening April 6–10!
Kids and teens can enjoy days packed with games, arts & crafts, outdoor activities, and opportunities to make new friends at community centers across the city.
With both structured camps and open programming, there’s something for every age and interest.
It’s the perfect way to stay active and engaged during time off school!
Register here.
Easter Egg Hunt at Portland Community Center
 Portland Community Center invites families to join a festive Easter Egg Hunt at Portland Park on March 28. This is for kids ages 10 and under. The first 100 participants will enjoy free food. Families are welcome to bring their own picnic-style food and enjoy a cheerful spring afternoon together.
Register here!
Youth Baseball & Tee Ball
 Register your child for our Tee‑Ball and Baseball Leagues with games held at Petersburg Park!
We offer programs for ages 3–7. Kids will learn fundamentals, build confidence, and enjoy game days with friends. Weekly practices and Saturday games make it the perfect intro to America’s favorite pastime!
Youth NFL Flag Football
 Flag football season is around the corner!
Sign up now through May 3, and join the fun at Russell Lee Park. Players get an official NFL jersey and flag set.
Click here for more information.
TreeFest
 Get ready for Louisville’s favorite day under the canopy!
Join us at TreeFest, our annual Arbor Day celebration hosted by community partners. We’ll kick things off bright and early at Thurman-Hutchins Park with a tree-mendous volunteer planting — this is optional & doesn’t require experience, just a willingness to dig in and have fun getting your hands dirty! After that, head over to the festival to enjoy live music, great food, local vendors, and activities for all ages!
For additional info and volunteer sign-ups visit treeslouisville.org/treefest
Thank you for helping us bring the community together to celebrate trees and their many benefits!
Poetry Walk at Joe Creason Park
 During the month of April, National Poetry Month, nature-inspired works by distinguished regional poets will bloom throughout Joe Creason Park.
Join us on the back porch of the Louisville Parks and Recreation Administration Building for a festive opening night celebration!
  Healthy Start is committed to improving maternal health outcomes and reducing infant mortality by supporting pregnant women and families with compassionate, wraparound care. Nurse case managers work closely with families to connect them to prenatal and postpartum health care support. Community members and families are invited to attend these upcoming Healthy Start events to learn more about available resources, connect with supportive staff, and build strong, healthy beginnings together
Register at Microsoft Forms
 Fridays, from 3:00 - 5:00 PM
Community members looking to strengthen their technology skills are invited to join free Digital Literacy Training offered by Americana World Community Center.
These hands-on sessions help participants build confidence using computers and navigating the digital world. Topics include computer basics, email, Windows 11, cybersecurity, and tips for helping teens stay safe online.
Upcoming sessions run March 6–April 10, April 17–May 22, and May 29–July 3.
Space is limited and the first session is already full. Interested participants can register in person at the Americana office or call (502) 366-7813for more information.
https://www.facebook.com/AmericanaCommunityCenter
  Many families are packing up to travel for spring break, and you don't want to bring an unwelcome illness home with you. Take some basic precautions to protect your health while on vacation.
Key things to keep in mind
Check for disease outbreaks and stay current on vaccines.
- According to Connie Mendel, director and chief health strategist for the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, “Flu and COVID‑19 seem to be easing but continue to circulate, and measles cases have risenin several U.S. states. In fact, 31 states have reported measles cases. Children may need additional MMR doses before travelling. Talk to your healthcare provider about any vaccine protections needed before travelling.”
Practice good hygiene.
- “Washing your hands often helps keep you healthy,” Mendel said. “If washing your hands isn’t possible, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover coughs and sneezes and try to avoid touching your face.”
Be careful in crowded places.
- Airports, theme parks, and public transit increase exposure to germs. Wearing masks and distancing can help, especially for people at higher risk of severe illness due to weakened immune systems.
Support your immune system.
- “Eat well, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and manage stress. Protect your skin with sunscreen (SPF 30+), hats, sunglasses, and shade. Use insect repellent to prevent bug bites and ask a doctor if malaria prevention is needed for your destination if you are travelling abroad,” Mendel added.
Know when to stay home.
- If someone feels sick, resting and avoiding travel helps prevent spreading illness. Seek medical care if symptoms worsen or are severe.
“Families who take these steps can enjoy a safer, healthier spring break,” Mendel said.
National Poison Prevention Week: Household Items can pose serious risks
 In 1961, Congress created National Poison Prevention Week to increase knowledge about how to prevent and stop poisoning accidents. Communities and poison centers across the country host events every year to share the message.
Poisoning can occur at any age and often when least expected. Children may mistakenly consume poisonous plants, teenagers might try out substances, and older adults can mistakenly take the wrong medication. Incidents of accidental poisoning can happen very quickly.
During National Poison Prevention Week, observed from March 15 to 21, it is important to highlight the dangers associated with poisonous substances and the measures that can be taken to protect families and friends. The Poison Help number, 1-800-222-1222, connects people across the country to their local poison control center. Calling from a Kentucky phone number will direct you to the Kentucky Poison Control Center.
Norton Children’s Hospital supports the Kentucky Poison Control Center, which was established in 1954 as the third poison control center in the U.S. It remains affiliated with Norton Children’s Hospital and is recognized as one of 55 regional poison control centers nationwide.
The center serves all 120 counties in Kentucky and operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year. All calls are confidential and free of charge.
Important safety tips for poison prevention at home include safe storage practices and medicine safety:
- Keep cleaning products and cosmetics out of reach.
- Read product labels before every use.
- Supervise young children when hand sanitizer is used.
- Avoid mixing cleaning products.
'Respecting Emotions', Recognizes signs of Trauma
 You're invited to "Respecting Emotions, Recognizing Experiences:
A Trauma Informed Approach Part II," led by licensed social worker Alison Waldorf. This interactive learning experience will use real-world scenarios to explore how our feelings and experiences influence our personal and professional development.
The free virtual event will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25.
Waldorf specializes in trauma-informed care and has extensive experience in implementing crisis-management strategies to support communities.
To register, please contact Jackie Love at Jackie.Love@louisvilleky.gov
  Calling All Gardeners & Plant Lovers!
On April 23rd, join kNOw Waste Louisville, Louisville Grows, and the Office of Sustainability for The Garden Swap at Louisville Grows.
Bring your gently used garden tools, seeds, plants, pots, and more and swap them with your neighbors.
It’s a fun, free way to reduce waste, save money, and support a more sustainable Louisville.
See you at the swap!
 Fare Change Effective March 2
TARC implemented its first fare schedule change in nearly 14 years on March 2. This change was approved by the TARC Board of Directors at its February 24 meeting based on extensive public outreach and a Title VI equity review.
Base fares increased from $1.75 to $2.25, while discounted fares for students and senior citizens only increased from $0.80 to $1.00. Paratransit (TARC3) trips will increase from $3.00 to $4.50.
Additional information on the fare changes is available here: TARC Board Approves Fare Schedule
 New TARC Bus Stops
TARC contractors have begun installing concrete pads and stanchions at roughly 200 new bus stops that must be constructed in advance of the launch of the New TARC Network in August. These new stops will allow nearby residents and businesses to enjoy the benefits of the New TARC Network and will ensure accessibility for all riders. Public notices will be posted at all future bus stop locations for the awareness of adjacent property owners and businesses.
Whereas the old network has a stop almost every block (3,341 stops in total), the new network is consolidating to one stop every three blocks (1,430 stops in total—a reduction of 1,911 stops) to help with on-time performance and service efficiency. Notices will be posted at any bus stops that are subject to removal. No existing TARC bus stops will be removed prior to August 2, 2026.
 New TARC Bus-Stop Signs
TARC will be installing new TARC bus-stop signs later this spring to replace the existing red signs at bus stops that will be served by the New TARC Network. The new blue signs will be larger, double-sided, and will include more route information to help customers understand what buses are arriving at the stop and where they can go.
 Register NOW for the Brightside Community-Wide Cleanup – April 11
Registration is now open for the Brightside & WM Community-Wide Cleanup on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
Residents, community groups, scouts, faith organizations, and businesses are encouraged to volunteer and help keep Louisville clean and green.
Neighborhoods can also organize their own cleanups throughout the year, with Brightside providing gloves, bags, and coordinating litter pickup.
Register at: https://louisvilleky.wufoo.com/forms/m1ks6jbh095uol4/
Neighbors, let’s show what D4 can do when we come together to clean up our district!
 We are 3 days from the deadline for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition!
The Overall competition winner wins a free roundtrip flight to Washington D.C. to attend the national awards ceremony and has their artwork displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol. The Community winner is recognized at the local awards ceremony and has their artwork displayed in Congressman McGarvey’s Louisville office. Both winners receive scholarship and museum prizes!
ELIGIBILITY: This competition is open to all students residing in KY-03 in grades 9-12. Students should participate in the art competition taking place in the congressional district where they reside, not where they attend school. You can find your Member of Congress here.
KEY DATES
- Submission form open: February 2nd
- Deadline for submissions: March 29th by 11:59 PM ET
- Public online voting portal opens: March 31st
- Public online voting portal closes: April 23rd at 12 PM ET
- Overall and Community Award winners notified: April 28th
- Louisville award ceremony for both winners: TBA
- Washington D.C. award ceremony (Overall Winner only): June 25th
- (Winner and ONE GUEST may attend the national celebration. Roundtrip airfare for two is provided. Winner is responsible for hotel accommodations and all D.C. related expenses such as excursions, transportation, meals, etc.)
HOW TO ENTER THE 2026 KY-03 ART COMPETITION
- Review the 2026 Rules for Students and Teachers.
- Complete the 2026 Student Release Form.
- Submit the Student Release Form and enter your artwork using the 2026 Art Competition Submission Form.
Some school IT systems limit submissions to external Google forms. Students may email applications to the ArtCompKY03@mail.house.gov email if they cannot access the submission form.
If you have any questions, please email ArtCompKY03@mail.house.gov or call 502-582-5129.
 
 Butchertown Art Fair is the Butchertown Neighborhood Association’s signature event and primary fundraiser. This juried art fair features a diverse lineup of high‑quality artists from the region and beyond, all set within one of Louisville’s most historic neighborhoods.
Held annually on the first Saturday and Sunday of June, the Butchertown Art Fair winds through tree‑lined streets and past beautifully preserved 1800s homes—offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience art while enjoying the charm and character of historic Butchertown.
Artists are thoughtfully selected to provide a wide variety of styles and mediums without feeling repetitive. This beloved event is a true labor of love for the Butchertown Neighborhood Association, whose year‑round efforts help fund neighborhood improvement projects and support annual donations to local nonprofits.
Location:
800 & 900 blocks of E. Washington Street
(Corner of E. Washington Street & Campbell Street)
2026 Butchertown Art Fair
- Saturday, June 6 | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Sunday, June 7 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Calling All Artists!
The Zapplication for the 2026 Butchertown Art Fair is now live. Applications will be accepted through April 1, 2026.
Apply at https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=14078
 The NuLu Business Association is excited to host the 9th Annual NuLu Bock Fest on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 12–6 PM. This beloved spring celebration will once again take over four blocks of the NuLu neighborhood with a full afternoon of food, music, and—of course—goats.
🌟 What to Expect
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Jefferson County Farm Bureau Goat Races — featuring both adult and baby goats
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Locally brewed bock beers from Louisville’s favorite breweries
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Live music and entertainment throughout the day
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Kids’ activities and family‑friendly fun
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Local vendors and community partners
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Craft cocktails and spirits from neighborhood favorites
NuLu’s own Nanny Goat Strut and Billy Goat Strut alleys make it the perfect home for Louisville’s largest bock beer festival.
🌭 Kentucky Proud Wurst Fest
Back again this year, the Kentucky Proud Wurst Fest invites local restaurants to compete for the title of Best of the Wurst Fest Winner. Come hungry and help crown the champion.
Join us on Market Street for a lively, safe, and goat‑filled celebration of spring, local flavor, and community spirit.
Presented by Whiskey Thief, this 502‑foot fun run/walk/strut kicks off NuLu Bock Fest!
This whimsical “micro marathon” takes place on Clay Street between Nanny Goat Strut and Billy Goat Strut on Saturday, March 28 at 11:30 a.m.
On your mark, get set… DONE! Finally, a race for the rest of us. Just 502 feet stand between you and eternal glory. Before the Bock Fest festivities begin, warm up those beer‑drinking muscles as you sip and strut your way to the finish line in a completely unserious show of athleticism.
Registration includes chip timing, a NuLu 502 goat medal, a commemorative cup, and your first Bock Fest beer on us. Rock your silliest Bock Fest outfit or simply show up ready to sip, strut, and celebrate your way across the finish line!
 Hop on over to Norton West Louisville Hospital!
The Easter Bunny is making a special stop to spread smiles and snap photos with our community.
📍Community Education Centers 1 & 2
📅Friday, March 27 | 6–8 p.m.
👉Register: https://bit.ly/4l07ZLO
📅Saturday, March 28 | 2–5 p.m.
👉Register: https://bit.ly/3Oz1fIu
Bring the family, say hello and make some sweet spring memories.
 Spring is in the air and it’s time to enjoy outdoor Music on Main Street!
Friday, April 17 from 5:30 – 7:15 PM, enjoy live music on the front plaza of the American Life Building (417 W. Main Street), right next door to The Kentucky Center.
🎶Music from Scott Smith and Mojo Thunder
🍻Cash bar and light nibbles
✨FREE and open to all, no ticket required
 Interested in starting an at-home compost?
Want a free, expandable, portable compost bin? Want to learn all you need to know to begin?
Register to attend our 1st of 2 at-home composting workshops 3/26 @louisvillenaturecenter
 🌸🐎Be a Derby Greeter at SDF! 🐎🌸
We’re looking for high school seniors and college students (18+) to help us welcome the world to Louisville for Derby 2026!
From April 29 – May 1, you’ll play a key role in creating that unforgettable first impression for visitors arriving at ✈️Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport during Derby week.
✨Distribute complimentary Woodford Reserve bourbon balls
👗Receive provided Derby attire (dress or shirt + bow tie, plus a color-coordinated hat or fascinator to wear and return)
🥤Enjoy complimentary snacks, drinks and parking while volunteering
🎓Earn volunteer hours for fraternities, sororities and service organizations
This is your chance to be part of one of Louisville’s biggest traditions and help us show off our city in true Derby style!
Interested? Contact Kim.Pemberton@FlyLouisville.com to sign up
 Louisville is entering a new era of local leadership! Join us for a vital community conversation with the 2026 Mayoral candidates. Since this is our city’s first non-partisan primary, it’s more important than ever to look past the party lines and focus on the platforms.
RSVP: https://ow.ly/Bzmt50Yo598
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