|
|
Hello great people in District 21,
Budget season is behind us – always the most grueling time for everyone at Metro Council. The accountants in our Office of Budget and Management dedicate many hours to putting all the numbers together for our review, and they deserve many thanks for their public service.
We passed a balanced budget to help deliver on our priorities: expanding housing services, enhancing our public spaces (like roads, sidewalks, and parks), and strengthening public safety. Yet, I wish I could say we got everything we wanted across the city. Reaching a balanced budget requires a compromise between the money available and the competing priorities across twenty-six diverse council districts. This year was no exception.
With changes in federal grant funding, we had less money this year for projects where we previously received federal help. It is still disturbing that the federal government’s priorities do not align with helping working people.
We are a resilient city, and we have to find solutions to make up for those lost funds. That comes with a cost and tough choices – like cutting funding to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund by $5 million. That was a difficult decision, but money was included elsewhere to keep people in their homes. To balance things out, we also cut funding for the mayor’s proposed Belvedere project by $5 million and reduced overtime funds for LMPD by $2 million. Although I didn’t support the $5 million cut to the housing trust fund, I supported the cuts to the Belvedere and police overtime.
Creating a vibrant downtown area is crucial for our growing city, but not when we are short on necessities for our struggling residents. While I want strong police services for our districts, the way LMPD has been using its overtime fund is problematic. Officers working eighty or more hours in a week cannot be effective at their jobs and I want to see regulations that clearly state how much overtime an officer can work in any given pay period. It is worth noting that LMPD still has the largest budget in the city, with an additional increase this year.
These monetary decisions freed up $12 million to use in other areas, such as $2.8 million for home repairs, housing stabilization, down payment assistance, and direct funding to our non-profit agencies – specifically Americana and South Louisville Community Ministries here in our district – to get people into housing and help keep them there. We also provided crucial funding toward violence prevention and early education assistance. Public safety is not only about policing, but also about investing in the infrastructure that helps grow healthier citizens.
I also advocated for more renewable energy funding and secured $500k to keep the city moving toward our clean energy goals. We must continue to prioritize this. Even as our political climate has changed, our environment is continuing to change too. We need to keep working toward a future our children will be happy to inherit. A healthy, cleaner, and greener city for all is non-negotiable.
Additionally, I added $30k to the home repair program to help homeowners in District 21, especially our seniors and those with disabilities. This fund has truly helped our neighbors in the past. For instance, last year, an elderly neighbor on a fixed income was able to get a working HVAC system to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Our city funds, combined with assistance from New Directions and Habitat for Humanity, allowed her to stay safely in her home.
I am also happy to report that, in conjunction with the mayor’s office, work on the La Villa Lou project to enhance the Preston Corridor continues. We also secured $125k in matching funds for the Wilder Park Skate Spot (with an official name coming soon as we finish reviewing survey responses). This is a project we have been working on for more than three years, and we are so excited to see it finally come to fruition.
This wasn’t a perfect budget. They never are, but I see real wins for our neighborhood and across the city.
Let’s keep moving forward.
As always, thank you for allowing me to serve our district.
~Betsy
 |
|
FY27 Budget Highlights & Community Investments
$40M for housing
$30M for paving improvements
$4.4M for parks (+$1.4M increase)
$6.2M less debt issued
$500K for Rainy Day fund
$500K for solar projects
$500K for crime tracking database
$1.5M for park expansion & future community center
$4.5M for Sun Valley Pool
$5.9M for Newburg Community Center gym
~$400K for traffic safety
$1.3M for public golf improvements
$100K bus stop lighting study
$50K Ambassador Program expansion
$125K Florence Ave Skate Spot
$250K each for Heuser Hearing Institute & Hosparus
$113K restored for Soil & Water
$2.2M reduction in overtime
|
Watch June 25 Council Meeting:
The Council meeting and attachments may be viewed online and on the Louisville Metro Council Facebook Page.
|
|
👥 Get Involved: Neighborhood Meetings June 2026
Wilder Park Neighborhood Association July 7 | 6:30–7:30 PM | Wilder Park Community Center
Lynnview City Council
July 14 | 6:00–7:00 PM | Lynnview City Hall
Beechmont Neighborhood Association July 20 | 6:00–7:00 PM | Beechmont Community Center
Iroquois Neighborhood Association (Meets Quaretelry) September 15 | 7:00–8:00 PM | DeSales High School
Friends of Iroquois Park
July 27 | 6:30–7:30 PM | Iroquois Library
Chat with Councilor Ruhe
July 29 | 6:30–7:30 PM | Iroquois Library
|
|
 Last week during my monthly chat, we welcomed the team from the Economic Development and One Louisville to share info about city-funded loans and grants.
It was a great turnout -- lots of local business owners came out to connect, ask questions, and learn what’s available. One program they highlighted is the South End Loan & Incentive Fund (METCO). It offers funding to help businesses in the South End and also Preston area -- whether that’s fixing up a space, expanding, or opening something new.
There are larger loans for bigger projects, smaller grants for long-standing local businesses, and added support to bring in new restaurants -- all focused on strengthening the local business community.
 |
|
The New TARC Network launches on August 2, 2026. This will be a historic, once-in-a-lifetime change for our community with new route names and numbers, new bus-stop locations—with a significant number of existing stops being removed to improve reliability—better frequencies of service, and a new Downtown Transit Center!
For more information, Click HERE
|
 The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) shared the following safety tips for the Fourth of July weekend to help keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy.
Food Safety
- Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot
- Don’t leave perishable food out for more than 2 hours (1 hour in high heat)
- Use a thermometer to ensure meats are fully cooked
- Wash hands and surfaces often
Heat & Sun Safety
- Stay hydrated—even if you don’t feel thirsty
- Take breaks in shade or air conditioning
- Wear light clothing and sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles
Water Safety
- Always supervise children
- Wear life jackets when boating
- Avoid swimming alone
- Follow posted safety rules
A few simple steps can help prevent injuries and illness and keep our community safe.
Have a happy Fourth of July!
 |
|
First Neighborhood Place will host the Black Men’s Mental Health Conference from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, July 11, at Western Middle School for the Arts, 2201 W. Main St. Register to attend.
The free conference aims to break down barriers surrounding mental health among Black men by encouraging open dialogue and connecting attendees to essential resources.
The event will feature a panel discussion and interactive workshops on addiction recovery, reentry after incarceration, career pathways and vocational training, mental health services, expungement assistance and more.
The conference builds on the success of the “Black MENtal Health” workshop series, which covers topics such as depression, trauma and community violence.
“To address these challenges, we must equip people with the knowledge, resources and safe spaces to heal,” said Ricky Owens, administrator for First Neighborhood Place.
|
 You're invited to a free class about how to prevent falls and safety tips. Participants will engage in activities and be provided resources for additional home safety.
The event is July 13, 1 p.m., at the University of Louisville Trager Institute, Optimal Aging Clinic Classroom 2, 204 E. Market St.
To register or for more information, contact Injury Prevention Manager Jess Brown, AICP, MPA at 502-217-5236 or by email Jessica.E.Brown@UofLHealth.org
 The Wesley House is another incredible nonprofit in District 21, helping our community grow and thrive. Their annual Back to School Bash is on Saturday, July 18 (10 AM–4 PM).
My office is proud to support this effort to make sure every child has the supplies they need to start the school year strong—because no child should go without basic essentials.
Free backpacks and school supplies (first come, first served, one per child), games, and community resources.
Please share this with any family who may need support this year. To volunteer, become a vendor, or help sponsor and provide more supplies, visit this link.
 Thursdays July 2 - 30 & Aug. 6 | 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
The Language Café, sponsored by Kentucky Performing Arts and the Louisville Metro Office for Immigrant Affairs, welcomes community members to practice and improve language skills in a friendly, informal setting. Open to all, weekly sessions offer opportunities to engage in Spanish, English, French, Swahili, Japanese, and Korean. Attendees are encouraged to complete the form in advance and enjoy snacks and drinks each Thursday from 5:00 to 6:00 pm. Everyone is invited to join and connect.
Follow Language Cafes on Instagram
 |
|
Camp Odyssey
ECHO has partnered with the Earth & Spirit Center again this summer for Camp Odyssey at Shawnee Park. Join us for a week of hiking, nature games, art and more! July 6-10 9am-4pm. ECHO families are encouraged to apply for the generous financial assistance.
Register Here!
|
 |
|
Nature Play & Storytime
Join us for Nature Play & Storytime at the Shawnee Park ECHO Office with the Louisville Public Library! Little explorers (ages 3–8) will enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on outdoor activities designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a love of nature.
Every Wednesday through July 22, 10:30 AM
230 Southwestern Pkwy., Louisville, KY 40212
More information here
|
 |
|
Jefferson Memorial Forest Summer Camps
Join us at Jefferson Memorial Forest for a week of outdoor adventures! Choose from one of three themed camps: Adventure Camp, Water Wonders, or Wilderness Survival. Recommended for ages 7-12. To inquire about scholarships, email David.Grissom@louisvilleky.gov
Register Here!
|
 |
|
Chickasaw Family Canoe Day
August 22, 2026
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
|
|
|
 Understanding 988 and knowing when to call
|
The United States launched 988 in 2022 as an easy‑to‑remember number for anyone experiencing a mental health, emotional, or substance‑use crisis. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7/365, connecting callers with trained counselors who listen, offer support, and help you stay safe.
You don’t have to be suicidal to call.
Anyone—at any age—can reach out for help, and you can also contact 988 if you’re worried about someone else. Veterans, service members, and their families can be connected with specially trained counselors. Interpretation is available for people who speak languages other than English or Spanish.
Why people contact 988
People reach out for many reasons, including anxiety, depression, substance‑use concerns, stress, trauma, loneliness, or simply needing someone to talk to.
What happens when you call
A trained counselor will:
- Listen without judgment
- Check on your safety
- Talk through what you’re experiencing
- Offer support and local resources
Most people feel calmer and more hopeful after connecting with a counselor.
Privacy and safety
You don’t have to share personal information. Counselors only involve 911 in rare situations when someone is in immediate danger.
|
|
|
 One effective way to do this is by eliminating mosquito breeding sites near your residence. Everyone can contribute to managing mosquito numbers by adopting preventive measures such as:
- Installing or repairing screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitos outside.
- Reducing the number of mosquitoes around your home by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires and draining birdbaths on a regular basis.
- Keeping gutters clear and ensuring pools and hot tubs are properly maintained or covered.
Avoid mosquito bites
- Use insect repellents when you go outdoors. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products provide longer-lasting protection.
- When weather permits, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors. Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spraying clothes with insect repellent to give you extra protection. Don't apply repellents containing permethrin directly to your skin.
“While the first line of defense is you, the Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness’ Mosquito Control Team is dedicated to decreasing both the mosquito population and threats of illnesses they can carry,” said Connie Mendel, department director and Chief Health Strategist. “By implementing various methods such as larvaciding (eliminating mosquito larvae), adulticiding (eliminating adult mosquitoes), and conducting in-depth inspections resulting from mosquito complaints, our team is working diligently to reduce mosquito breeding throughout the community.”
For additional tips, you can watch our YouTube video or visit our webpage for many ways you can reduce mosquito breeding grounds at your home.
To make a complaint online about mosquitos in your neighborhood, visit Metro311. You can also call 311 or 502-574-5000.
|
|
|
 June 7, 2026
-Greatful Brands Inc. – 4730 Allmond Ave
Applicant is a local manufacturing/distillery-type business (Rectifier Class A license).
Protest deadline: July 7, 2026
June 19, 2026
-Emerald Hospitality LLC (Residence Inn Louisville Airport) – 700 Phillips Ln
Hotel operator seeking multiple retail drink licenses; led by President Phillip Morris.
Protest deadline: July 19, 2026
-Sapphire Hospitality LLC (SpringHill Suites Louisville Airport) – 850 Phillips Ln
Hotel operator seeking multiple retail drink licenses; also led by President Phillip Morris.
Protest deadline: July 19, 2026
*** The information above is sourced directly from the Public Notices page. ***
Residents who have questions, concerns, or wish to provide feedback may contact the Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) or our office for assistance. Public comments or protests must be submitted within 30 days of the legal notice.
📩 Stay informed: You can sign up to receive ABC license notifications here:
[https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KYLOUISVILLE/bulletins/416bca4]
 Important Note: These notices are from the Office of Planning, informing neighbors about development applications being submitted in their area.
26-CUP-0105, 4519 S 6th Street;
Board of Zoning Adjustment, July 20, 2026 at 1:00 PM
This is a notice for an upcoming public meeting related to a request at the address above. The meeting will be held at 1:00 PM at 514 W Liberty Street (Old Jail Building). For more information, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/office-planning/upcoming-public-meetings.
🏡Stay Informed on Neighborhood Development
Want updates on development and planning activity in our district? Sign up to receive notifications directly from the Office of Planning:
🔗 Sign up for notifications: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/office-planning/notifications
📅 Looking for upcoming public meetings? Stay engaged and informed by viewing the latest meeting schedule:
🔗 View upcoming public meetings: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/office-planning/upcoming-public-meetings
|
|
 Here are a list of recourses available for our constituents
LIHEAP:
As temperatures drop, no one should have to choose between warmth and other necessities.
Louisville’s LIHEAP Fall Subsidy is here to help, offering one-time home heating assistance for low-income households. Please share this information for those who may be in need!
Flight Tracking:
If you have complaints about airport noise, please call Noise Office at 502-363-8516 and follow the below prompts to track flights:
Go to the airport's website www.flylouisville.com. At the top of the page, click on CORPORATE tab. Under the heading LRAA, click on the tab for NOISE COMPATIBILITY PROGRAM. Near the bottom of the page, look for Flight Tracking and click the button for NEAR-LIVE FLIGHT TRACKS DISPLAY. Click the Flight Tracking heading at the top of the page. Click the Accept button to accept the terms and conditions and you can begin viewing flights.
Pothole Reporting:
Use the Louisville Metro online form by clicking here.
Use Twitter by sending the location of the hole to @LouMetro311 and include the hashtag #502pothole.
Call Metro311 or 574-5000 to report potholes or any other issues.
Call our office at 574-1121, and we'll turn it in on your behalf.
To report a pothole on an interstate in Jefferson County, go to the “contact us” dropdown menu and select “report a hazard” on KYTC’s website http://transportation.ky.gov
Recycling:
We are asking for your help to ensure that we are correctly setting out our recycling carts in our district. Follow these tips to ensure that your recycling gets picked up time!
Do: Make sure the lid is closed flat and break the boxes down flat to maximize space.
Don't: Set boxes beside the cart or leave lid open or overflow the cart
For the Public Works recycling schedule click here
 Neighborhood Associations and Groups
Beechmont Neighborhood Association:
- Meets 3rd Monday @ 6:00pm
- Beechmont Community Center, 205 W Wellington Ave
Iroquois Neighborhood Association:
- Meets Quarterly @ 7:00pm
- DeSales High School, 425 W Kenwood Dr
Airport Neighbor’s Alliance
- Meet every 3rd Saturday 10-11am
- For location contact Mary Rose
Lynnview City Council:
- Meets 2nd Tuesday @ 6:00pm
- Lynnview City Hall, 1241 Gilmore Ln
Wilder Park Neighborhood Association:
- Meets 1st Tuesday @ 6:30pm
- Wilder Park Community Center, 120 Fairmont Ave
Friends of Iroquois Park:
- Meets 4th Monday @ 6-7pm
- Iroquois Library. 601 W Woodlawn
|
|
Interested in council meetings?
Here is the Metro Council calendar for 2026. It outlines all scheduled meetings, key decision dates, and opportunities for public involvement throughout the year.
Stay informed, plan ahead, and participate in the discussions that shape our community!
|
|
|
|
|
