There’s a lot of new happening this season! From a new BOB neighborhood to new D15 interns, new park improvements, new sidewalks, and so much more, we’re embracing the gradual change of the seasons and everything that comes with it. Besides, I think we’re all ready to embrace a change in weather, right?

A lot is happening across D15 right now, and I wanted to share a few tidbits, shout-outs, and things that have caught my attention lately. Some are big, some are small, and some are just things I think you should know about:

• The Speed Art Museum will be announcing its new Executive Director next week! I’m excited to get to know the new ED, their vision, and how the D15 office and the Speed can continue to support our incredible community.

• C-A-R-D-S! From soccer to field hockey to football and so much more, UofL sports are ramping up in D15! Make your way over to Trager Stadium, Lynn Stadium, or L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium to catch a game, and be sure to support our local businesses and restaurants while you’re cheering on the home team. Speaking of sports, the fall meet at Churchill Downs starts in October!

• Louder Than Life and Bourbon & Beyond are happening later this month. While the festivals aren't in D15, our residents are greatly impacted. May our visitors be kind to you and your spaces! If you make it to the festival grounds, I hope you have an amazing time; if you don’t, I hope you get to soak up some tunes on your porch.

• Check out this awesome Spectrum story about the Hazelwood Neighborhood Association and the cooking classes they're offering to the community. There’s another one later this month, so keep scrolling for more info.

• I was recently featured on Solutions to Violence on Forward Radio (WFMP 106.5 FM). Listen now.

• Congratulations to Beechmont Bakehouse on their grand opening inside Foxing Books! Our beloved independent South End bookstore is now serving up some of the most delicious savory and sweet treats in town. I feel like I have swooned over their hashbrown casserole in a previous newsletter, yet I feel the need to swoon all over again. It’s gooooooood.

• Congratulations to Councilwoman Raymond, whose office recently launched a coloring book designed to teach kids about Metro government. Created by JennyKat of JennyKat Productions, a graphic artist based in Lexington, A Kid’s Day in Louisville: How the Metro Council Supports the City invites children and families to discover the places, people, and services that make Louisville so great. It’s super adorable, y’all! Councilwoman Raymond was kind enough to gift each office some copies of the coloring book, so stop by a BOB Pop-Up or Chili with Chappell to grab one!

And that's just a sampling of what's happening around D15! There’s plenty more on the horizon! Keep scrolling for upcoming events, neighborhood news, ways to get involved, and a few things happening right here in D15.

One of my favorite things about representing this district is getting to see all of the different ways our community is growing, changing, and showing up for one another.

August highlights included a post-Dainty meet-up, breakfast with my Wear the White Coat Experience physician Dr. Choi, A Taste of South Louisville benefitting South Louisville community Ministries, Colt Brown as District 15's page for a Metro Council meeting, the 2026 8U Ohio Valley Regional Champs from Fern Creek, and hanging on a TARC bus at LMPD's National Night Out.

Goodbye, Kylie!

August 26th was Kylie‘s last day with a D15 office as our legislative research assistant. Kylie started as an intern and she was so amazing that we asked her to stay on longer! We’re grateful that Kylie made time for us while being an active UofL student and juggling another part-time job. While in the office, Kylie has helped with things like researching the livestock ordinance changes, diving into Police overtime (or trying to, at least 😅), and helping organize notes and action items for the Ad Hoc Committee on the Efficiency of Boards & Committees. While we hate to see her go, I know that Kylie is going to do amazing things as she moves through life. Wherever she lands, her colleagues will be very lucky to have her. Join us in wishing Kylie a farewell!

Welcome, interns!

Meet Om Lee: Name: Om Lee Kung School: University of Louisville  Fun facts: - My ultimate travel goal is to visit all 50 states.  - I love collecting and wearing traditional outfit and accessories.  - I LOVE Qdoba (they know me by face)

Meet Anderson: Hello, I’m Anderson Morales, a senior at the University of Louisville. I’m double majoring in political science and psychology. With this, I hope to work for Team Kentucky or study law. I grew up in Shelbyville, so I have always been close to Louisville. Even when I was little, I considered myself a Cardinals fan. I also play the clarinet in the Cardinal Marching Band. As a member of the Cardinal Marching Band, I get to see a lot of Louisville. I go to every home football and basketball game. Every year I play at the Kentucky Derby, and I have even played at Louder Than Life. I travel with fellow bandmates to other states to cheer on our great team. I’m excited for this upcoming Ole Miss game! Being in the Cardinal Marching Band has been one of my greatest experiences, and I cannot wait to see more. I am so grateful to be part of the Louisville Metro Council, especially District 15. I hope to learn and grow from this experience. I intend to help the community and build meaningful relationships with both council members and community leaders. All in all, I’m here and ready to be part of the team. Go Cards!

Chili with Chappell: September 29

BOB: Saint Joseph!

We’re excited to announce that Building Our Blocks (BOB) is coming to the Saint Joseph neighborhood this fall!

Over the next several months, my office, Louisville Metro departments, nonprofit partners, and—new this year—our BOB Champions will be knocking on every door in the neighborhood to connect residents with free services, resources, and volunteer opportunities. Whether you’re interested in a free tree, smoke alarm, rain barrel, soil test, trash cart repair, home repair assistance, or simply have ideas for improving your neighborhood, BOB is here to help.

You don’t have to wait for a knock at your door! Our BOB Menu is now available online, making it easy to sign up for free services and share your ideas. Keep an eye on your mailbox for your BOB mailer, and on your front porch for a visit from our team in the coming weeks, or go ahead and fill out your BOB Menu online.

We’re also bringing BOB into the neighborhood with several opportunities to connect:

🦃 Friendsgiving in the Grotto – Wednesday, October 1, 6:00 PM at Lady of Lourdes Grotto

🏘️ Saint Joseph Area Association Neighborhood Meeting – Monday, October 12, 6:30 PM

🧹 Neighborhood Cleanup – Saturday, October 24, 11:00 AM at Zanzabar

And be sure to mark your calendar for BIG BOB DAY on Saturday, November 7, from 10 AM to 1 PM! We’ll celebrate the neighborhood with an incredible resource fair, free services, family-friendly activities, and dozens of community partners all in one place.

Want to get involved? Consider becoming a BOB Champion! Whether you have an hour or an afternoon, neighbors helping neighbors is what makes BOB so special. We’d love to have you join the team. Sign up here.

I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together in Saint Joseph!

ICYMI: BOB: Wyandotte-Oakdale Recap Together with residents and community partners, we connected neighbors with resources, listened to what they wanted to see in their community, and rolled up our sleeves to make tangible improvements. In six months, we knocked on 1,588 resident doors!!! During BOB: Wyandotte-Oakdaleresidents requested or received: 47 trash and recycling cart repairs or replacements 39 soil tests 23 trees 25 smoke alarm installations, 2 fire extinguishers, and a carbon monoxide detector 11 rain barrels 15 Repair Affair applications 22 gun locks 21 spay/neuter vouchers And in Wyandotte Park, we revitalized the horseshoe pit, installed two baseball bat holders, and spent a day cleaning the park and surrounding areas. But the numbers only tell part of the story. BOB is about showing up, listening, connecting neighbors with resources, and working together to make our neighborhoods stronger. Thank you to every resident who opened their door, shared an idea, volunteered, attended a BOB Pop-Up, connected us with a neighbor, or helped make BOB: Wyandotte-Oakdale possible. BOB works because neighbors do. See more photos from BOB: Wyandotte-Oakdale here.

Shout Out to the Grotto Grannies

Thanks to the "Grotto Grannies," along with board members from the Saint Joseph Association and other volunteers who recently came together for a grotto beautification work day! The work day included fresh flowers, plants, and mulch around the grotto. Artist Jared Cain has been busy restoring the Stations of the Cross all around the grotto. Stop by sometime and check out the lovely grotto in Saint Joseph!

New Barbee/Preston Sidewalk Connector

We’re excited to share that a new sidewalk connector is coming to "Barbee Island," the patch of grass between Barbee Way and Preston Street. Funded through my office, the new connection will provide a safer, more accessible route for pedestrians traveling between the two streets.

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of the year, creating a simple connection that will make a meaningful difference for neighbors who walk through the area and improve pedestrian safety for decades to come.

This project is also a great example of how BOB: Saint Joseph can turn conversations with residents into action. BOB is about listening to what neighbors need and working together to find solutions, and this connector is one more way we’re building a stronger, more connected neighborhood.

A huge thank you to Louisville Metro Public Works for working with our office to make this project a reality!

Expanded Emerson Park Playground Coming Soon!

We're excited to announce that new playground equipment has been ordered for Emerson Park, with installation expected by the end of this year or early next year, weather permitting.

And don't worry—the existing playground isn't going anywhere! The expansion will add new opportunities for kids of different ages and interests, with a variety of play elements and a much-anticipated basket swing.

As part of the expansion, the grills will be relocated, and we're working with Louisville Metro Parks & Recreation to create an enhanced caregiver area where adults can comfortably keep an eye on the kids while they play.

This project is the latest step in the ongoing Emerson Park improvement project, a vision we've been building with residents for the past several years. So far, that work has included new fitness equipment and a fence around the community garden.

What I love most about this project is that the vision came from the people who use the park. Instead of spending years and significant resources developing an expensive master plan that may never make it off the shelf, we've worked with residents to identify improvements they want to see and then turned those ideas into tangible projects.

That means we can keep improving the park one project at a time, based on what the community tells us it needs.

Thank you to everyone who has shared ideas, participated in the process, and helped shape the future of Emerson Park. And a special thank you to Louisville Metro Parks & Recreation for continuing to work with us to bring this community-driven vision to life.

There's more room to play, more ways to gather, and more improvements to come. We can't wait to see this next chapter take shape!

Help Shape the Future of Bradley Park!

We're working with Louisville Metro Parks & Recreation to develop a vision for Bradley Park, and we want to hear from the people who know it best: the neighbors who use it. How often do you visit Bradley Park? What do you love about it? What could be improved? And what would make the park feel more welcoming to you and your family? Take our short survey and help shape what's next for Bradley Park. Your feedback will help guide future improvements and ensure we're investing in the things our community actually wants and needs. Survey closes November 8th.

ICYMI: New Renderings of Iroquois Park Playground Now Available

A brand-new Iroquois Playground is on the way! Designed with fun, safety, and inclusivity in mind, the new playground will feature spaces for younger and older children, low-sensory areas, and nature-inspired play elements for all to enjoy. Construction is currently on track to begin in Fall 2026. Learn about park improvements at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/parks/park-improvements

New Signs in Wilder Park

Have you seen the new signs in Wilder Park? We partnered with Councilor Ruhe’s office in District 21 and Louisville Tourism to install new neighborhood signage along the borders of historic Wilder Park. We’re excited for these signs to show off the neighborhood’s pride and welcome visitors to this wonderful community. Check them out when you come to Ramen Fest in October—one of my new favorite fall traditions! (More info about Ramen Fest below.)

New Fire Pumper at Engine 18

Louisville Fire Department announced the addition of a new 2026 Pierce Enforcer Pumper assigned to Engine 18 (2600 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40208). 

The $1.1 million investment provides Louisville Fire with a modern, dependable, frontline resource designed to strengthen emergency response capabilities, improve operational efficiency, and support firefighter safety. 

 The new pumper combines versatile firefighting capabilities with updated operational and safety features. The apparatus includes a stainless-steel body, a hydraulic ladder rack, seating for five firefighters, and an emergency lighting system with an automatic scene-dimming feature designed to reduce glare and improve visibility around emergency scenes. 

“This apparatus gives the Engine 18 crew a reliable and highly capable vehicle that will support our firefighters across a wide range of emergency situations,” said Chief O’Neill. “It will help our members operate more safely and effectively while continuing to provide the highest level of fire protection and emergency response to the people of Louisville.” 

Brightside Fall Community-Wide Cleanup: October 24

Are you interested in helping to clean up your community this fall? Brightside is hosting the a Community Wide Cleanup on Saturday, October 24th. Groups of any size and anywhere in Jefferson County are encouraged to sign up to participate in the area of their choice on or around October 24th. The more volunteers, the more we can make the city shine!  FREE clean up supplies and post-cleanup bag collection are provided and all are welcome to participate.  Simply register your fall Community Wide Cleanup group here.

New TARC Network

The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) launched a massively redesigned bus network in August. While service has been reduced in some areas, the new system is designed to create more direct routes, more frequent service, and more reliable trips.

Here are a few things to know:

🗺️ Compare your route. TARC has a Comparative Trip Planner that lets you compare your old route with the new one and find the best option for your trip.

🔴🔵🟢 Look for the new bus stop signs. Larger, color-coded signs now indicate how frequently buses serve each stop, making it easier to understand the network at a glance. (Red = every 15 minutes, Blue = 30 minutes, and Green = 60 minutes)

🚏 Fewer bus stops. The previous system often had stops just a few hundred feet apart, which slowed buses down. The redesigned network consolidates many of those stops to improve travel times.

District 15 residents will notice several route changes (fact-check me!):

- Route 43 is now 5A/5B and travels along Goss Avenue instead of Texas Avenue and Burnett Avenue
- Route 29 on Easter is now Route 20
- Route 6 on Taylor is now 8A/8B
- Route 29 on Berry Blvd, Route 63 on 7th St, Route 18 on Manslick, Route 27 on Preston/Eastern Parkway, and Route 93 around the University have all been eliminated
- Route 4 on 3rd St is the same (kinda)

I'll be honest: service reductions are never ideal. But the previous system had become difficult to navigate, inefficient in many places, and wasn't always serving riders as effectively as it could. My hope is that this redesign creates a stronger foundation that we can continue to improve and expand over time.

In the meantime, my office is working to make sure the new routes in District 15 are supported with functional bus stops and other infrastructure improvements.

TARC & PARC Team Up to Get You to this Year’s Festivals TARC is partnering with PARC (Parking Authority of River City) to offer a great option for those headed to Louder Than Life (Sept. 17-20) and Bourbon & Beyond (Sept. 24-27). Skip the traffic and ride easy. Concertgoers can park downtown at the PARC garage (115 W Jefferson) for just $20, which includes round-trip TARC service for everyone in the car. Learn more: https://www.ridetarc.org/tarc-and-parc-team-up-to-get-concertgoers-to-louder-than-life-and-bourbon-beyond/

Tickets Now on Sale for Jack's Pumpkin Trail in Iroquois Park

Thousands of visitors will once again make their way through Iroquois Park this fall for Jack's Lantern Trail, a new chapter for the pumpkin-filled experience that was born right here in our park. This year's theme, “Woods of Wonder,” will transform the trail with thousands of illuminated jack-o'-lanterns, bringing new experiences and plenty of Halloween magic to the woods of Iroquois Park. And for those looking to get to the glow a little faster, a new “Get to the Glow” Fast Pass will be available. Jack's Lantern Trail will take place October 1 through November 1 and serves as a fundraiser for the Parks Alliance of Louisville, helping support Louisville's more than 120 parks. While you're here, I hope you'll take some time to explore Iroquois Park and the surrounding South End. Grab a bite at a local restaurant, visit a neighborhood business, or simply take in one of Louisville's most beautiful public spaces. Jack's Lantern Trail runs from October 1 through November 1. Get tickets and learn more at jackolanternlouisville.org Welcome back to Iroquois Park, Jack! 🎃

El Molcajete ky inc, 8106 preston highway louisville ky 40219, Hereby declares intention(s) to apply for a NQ2 Drink, Beer by Drink, Liquor by the Drink (12-4 a.m) license(s) no later than August 28, 2026. The business to be licensed will be located at 4026 South 3rd Street Louisville ky, Kentucky 40214 doing business as Six Pack Volleyball Bar & Grill. The owner(s) are as follows: Erika Rodriguez 372 Spring Lake ct Louisville Ky 40229. Any person, association, corporation, or body politic, may protest the granting of the license(s) by writing the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, 500 Mero St 2NE33, Frankfort, Kentucky, 40601 , within thirty (30) days of the date of legal publication. September 1 2026 LSBN0587073

D15 September Event Calendar

9/1: Taylor Berry Neighborhood Association meeting (6 pm; 2911 Taylor Blvd)
9/1: Wilder Park Neighborhood Association meeting (6:30 pm; 120 Fairmont Ave)
9/2: Oakdale Neighborhood Association (6 pm; Center for Neighborhoods, 1126 Berry Blvd)                                           9/8: 4th Division Advisory board meeting (6:30 pm; Edison Building cafeteria; 701 W Ormsby Ave)
9/9: Meriwether-Fort Hill Neighborhood Association (6:30 pm; The Bard’s Town, 511 E Burnett)
9/10: Metro Council Meeting (6 pm; 601 W. Jefferson St)
9/13: The Big Table (5 pm; 2120 Rundill Rd.)
9/15: Hazelwood Neighborhood Association Meeting (6 pm; South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave)
9/15: Lucky Horseshoe Neighborhood Association meeting (6 pm; 1017 Queen Ave)
9/21: German-Paristown Neighborhood Association meeting (6 pm; at Hope Worsted Mills, 1000 Swan St)
9/23: 4th Division Community Commitment Meeting (6:00 pm; Edison Building cafeteria; 701 W Ormsby Ave)
9/24: Metro Council Meeting (6 pm; 601 W. Jefferson St)
9/28: Friends of Iroquois Park (6 pm; Iroquois Library, 601 W Woodlawn Ave)
9/29: Chili with Chappell (6 pm; Louisville Fire Engine 12, 4535 Manslick Rd)

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Meriwether-Fort Hill Day: September 5

Celebrate the Meriwether Fort Hill neighborhood at the Meriwether Fort Hill Day on Saturday, September 5th from 1 pm to 10 pm on the 1400 block of South Hancock Street.  This free community event will being together neighbors for family fun, food, music, and more.  The event is open to everyone.

Happenings in Hazelwood

The Hazelwood Neighborhood Association invites you to get involved in the community. There are various opportunities at the Hazelwood Community Center at Temple of Faith Church on Bicknell Avenue:

• Register your kid for the After School Tutoring program at the Hazelwood Community Center. The program begins on Tuesday, September 8, from 4 pm to 7 pm.
• Mamaw Sandy's Kitchen Class is back on Friday, September 11th at 4 pm to help you learn how to prepare the items in a Dare to Care food box.
• Become a volunteer!

Questions? Email destiny@hazelwoodcommunitycenter.org.

Iroquois Park Overlook Open to Cars: September 12 & 13

The gate to the North Overlook via Uppill Road in Iroquois Park will be open on September 12 and 13 from 10 am to 4 pm. Here's the remaining 2026 schedule (hurry—the season is almost over!): 🚗 September 12-13 🚗 October 10-11 🚗 November 14-15 Please remember to drive SLOWLY, as the drive will still be shared with pedestrians, cyclists, and animals.

Louisville Orchestra at Iroquois Park: September 12

The Louisville Orchestra is kicking off its 2026-27 season with a free concert at Iroquois Amphitheater. The annual Music Without Borders concert is set for Saturday, Sept. 12, at 8:30 p.m. The performance will feature Grammy-nominated percussionist and vocalist Pedrito Martinez and the Pedrito Martinez Group alongside the Louisville Orchestra. Led by conductor Ahmed Alom, the concert will celebrate the musical traditions of Cuba. The multicultural program combines Cuban rumba with jazz, timba and other contemporary influences. Admission is free and open to everyone, but registration is recommended and available now on the Louisville Orchestra website.

The Big Table: September 13

In 2017, Mayor Fischer gathered organizations and faith leaders who were working on various aspects of bringing folks together after political and racial tensions in the city. Cathy Berkey and Jud Hendrix, members of the group, decided what better way to get together was over food. And The Big Table was born; connecting the whole city in an opportunity to share food and conversation and learn about neighbors old and new.

Now, nine years later, Cathy Berkey, along with the Office of Immigrant Affairs, continues to host the annual event during Welcoming Week, a national initiative bringing together immigrants, refugees, and U.S.-born residents for cultural and community events. The Office of Immigrant Affairs considers The Big Table to be their welcoming event. And, this
year, the Office of Violence Prevention is also sponsoring the event because they believe that Belonging is a source of safety.

The Big Table will be held on September 13 at 5 pm at Iroquois Park. Tickets are free, but donations are appreciated (and tickets help with planning!). Bring a dish to share, though not required. You will find the tables heavy with scrumptious food, beautiful surroundings, and vibrant conversation. It is an evening not to be missed!

Tickets: https://TheBigTable2026.eventbrite.com

Are you part of an organization that would like to support The Big Table by simply adding your organization’s name to the list of supporters? Contact TheBigTable502@gmail.com

Peaches at Iroquois Amphitheater: September 15

There's still time to check out a show at Iroquois Amphitheater before the season ends! One of those upcoming shows is Peaches on September 15 along with Wheelchair Sports Camp and Louisville locals The Daddy Sisters!

Tickets to upcoming shows are as low as $30!

RamenFest: October 10 & 11

The 4th Annual Ramen Fest is coming back to Huston Quin Park on Saturday, October 10th, and Sunday, October 11th. This is a free event for all ages, showcasing local music and vendors. More info coming soon!

Are you ready for football in D15?!

Get ready for Manual High School will be hosting 4 home games this season, so make sure you're aware of game nights if you live in Schnitzelburg or the surrounding area.  See Manual's full football schedule here. The University of Louisville has also released their 2026 football schedule at Cardinal Stadium. The Cards will be hosting 6 home games this season. See UofL's full football schedule here. Go Rams! Go Cards!

9/11 Day of Good

Join thousands of volunteers across the country on September 11, 2026, for the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Day as we come together in a powerful national day of service and remembrance. At Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, you can make an impact in one of two ways: pack meals for people facing food insecurity or join our Event Support Team to help make the entire event possible. Both opportunities play an important role in bringing this day to life and right now, we have an especially urgent need for Event Support Team volunteers. Whatever role you choose, your time and energy will help make September 11 a day of unity, service and remembrance.

Questions? Email volunteer@911day.org

OPPORTUNITY #1: EVENT SUPPORT TEAM
Thursday, September 10 from 1:00 - 5:00 PM (Set Up Shift)
Friday, September 11 from 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM (Event Day Shift)

The day can't happen without you. As a member of our event support team, you'll set up the room, check volunteers in, keep the packing lines moving, restock tables, box and palletize meals, and break it all down. You're what makes things happen: the backbone of the whole event. But don't worry, no experience is necessary. We will train you on site. 4+ hour commitment needed. You can work just one shift, or the entire day. It's up to you!

More info + registeration: https://volunteer.911day.org/projects/e1c0adc1-5c93-46e4-b8ca-5a8ad392e850

OPPORTUNITY #2: MEAL PACKING
Friday, September 11th from 9:00 - 1 1:00 AM

Stand shoulder-to-shoulder with your neighbors, work colleagues, or friends, and assemble shelf-stable meals for families facing hunger. Over 176,000 meals will be donated to Dare to Care Food Bank in Louisville. It's the simplest, most meaningful couple of hours you'll spend on 9/11. 2-hour commitment needed, and no experience is necessary.

More info + registration: https://volunteer.911day.org/projects/d97b5239-32a1-48d2-920c-caf61076e1bf

NAMI Walk

NAMIWalks Louisville is Back and Better! On September 12, 2026, NAMI Louisville and hundreds from the Louisville community will join together in a 1.5 mile walk to support mental health at Waterfront Park. The event will take place from 10 am to noon. Mark your calendars and get registered today!: https://www.namiwalks.org/louisville

Lights Out Louisville

You might know that millions of birds migrate over Louisville every spring and fall. But did you also know that billions of migrating birds are injured or killed each year in the U.S.— and it’s due to artificial light at night pulling them off course or causing them to fly into windows and buildings?  With your help, Lights Out Louisville—a locally focused conservation program sponsored by the Louisville Audubon Society—aims to change that.  By taking a few simple actions, you can help us save migrating birds, and save money on your electricity bill at the same time!  This September and October, between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., do what you can to reduce artificial light at night. That’s as easy as turning off nonessential lights—both indoors and outside—and closing blinds, shades, or curtains. By reducing artificial light at night during peak migration months, we give migrating birds a better chance of surviving their long journeys.  If you choose to participate, you can also help us track our program’s impact by ZIP code. Go to www.lightsoutlouisville.org/go-lights-out/ and fill out the “pledge” form. It costs nothing and it takes less than 1 minute. Visit www.lightsoutlouisville.org to learn more.

Anti-Racism Challenge

The next 28-day Anti-Racism Challenge (ARC) begins October 2nd. You may have participated in health or exercise challenges before and know that the point of committing to these challenges is to change our habits. For example, in a health challenge, we make goals to exercise each day, get enough sleep, eat healthy food; the hope is that when the challenge is over, these things will become the new normal. That's what ARC want to do—raise awareness, invoke commitment, and make being an anti-racist the new normal in our everyday lives. To learn more and sign up, go to listenlearnact.org.

World Fest: Labor Day Weekend

The 24th annual WorldFest, Louisvilleʼs premier international festival, will attract more than 150,000 attendees over the four-day Labor Day weekend. WorldFest celebrates and showcases the international cultures and communities that make up the city of Louisville and neighboring areas. WorldFest is free to attend and open to all ages, featuring entertainment stages, Parade of Cultures, Global Village, and more!

What to Expect:

• Three entertainment stages showcasing international, national, regional and local performers all weekend long.

• Nearly 150 International vendors featuring international arts, merchandise, food, and beverages.

• A Global Village highlighting cultures and customs from all over the world.

• A World of Information that informs citizens about services for our international residents.

• A Children’s International Activity Zone to learn about cultures and customs, arts, crafts, and more.

• A Parade of Cultures with nearly 1,000 participants celebrating all the diverse cultures in Louisville.

• A Naturalization Ceremony pronouncing more than 100 new Americans to Louisville as new citizens      

Full schedule is available online: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/city-events/worldfest

Small & Local Business Matchmaker Event: September 15

Looking to connect with amazing small and local businesses? This is the perfect in-person event to meet, mingle, and make valuable connections! Whether you're a small business owner or just passionate about supporting local, join for a fun and interactive experience. Sponsored by Metro Louisville Equity in Procurement & Contracting Task Force Initiative, the event takes place at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage on Tuesday, September 15th from 5 pm to 7:30 pm. Don’t miss out on the chance to grow your network and discover new opportunities right in your community! Register for free here.

Parking Day: September 18

On Friday, Sept. 18, Louisville will join communities around the world for Park(ing) Day, a celebration that temporarily transforms curbside parking spaces into parks, seating areas, art displays and other creative public spaces. Louisville Downtown Partnership (LDP) and the Louisville Metro Department of Transportation (LouDOT) will host the local event in Downtown Louisville. Local businesses, organizations and community members are invited to transform on-street parking spaces along the Main Street corridor and 4th, 5th and 6th streets into fun, engaging spaces for people to enjoy. Other locations may also be considered. Park(ing) Day highlights the importance of safer, greener and more accessible streets. It also gives Louisville Metro residents a chance to reimagine how public space can bring people together. LDP and LouDOT will coordinate permits and traffic management for the event and cover parking meter costs. Participants will provide their own materials, install and remove their spaces, and staff them throughout the day. Bring your creativity and help turn downtown parking spaces into places for people.

4th Division Community Commitment Meeting: September 23

Louisville Metro Police Department's 4th Division invites you to their Community Commitment Meeting on Wednesday, September 23rd at the new 4th Division headquarters located at 701 W. Ormsby Avenue (Edison Building) from 6 pm to 7 pm.  It's LMPD's opportunity to engage with the community and discuss how we can all work together to keep our neighborhoods safe. The event is free, casual, and open to all.

ELEFA Report & Quarterly Community Meeting

Dear Community Members,

We are honored to share that our first semiannual report on Louisville’s Community Commitment is now posted on our website at elefa.org/louisville under the “DOCUMENTS” tab under “Reports & Documents.” It covers our work from October 2025 through June 2026 — what we have reviewed, where we see progress, and where we see work that still needs to happen. The full report is long, but it opens with a Letter to Louisville and an Executive Summary written for a general audience. If you read one part, read those.

And please save the date for our third Quarterly Community Meeting, which will be your opportunity to discuss the report with us:

• Date: Monday, September 14, 2026 — Doors open at 5:30 PM; Program begins at 6:00 PM

• Location: Simmons College of Kentucky, Administration & Library Building — 1000 S. 4th St., Louisville, KY 40203. (Please use the Kentucky St. entrance.)

• Light refreshments will be available starting at 5:30 PM.

• Spanish-language interpretation and ASL interpretation will be available.

We will walk through what is in the report and answer your questions, and we are also setting aside time for more in-depth conversation, because what we hear from you shapes what we look at next. More details, a flyer, and a full agenda will follow. 

You do not need to wait until September to tell us what you think — you can share your feedback on the report here, or email us at LVL_Outreach@elefalvl.org. For anything else, please contact ELEFA Deputy Monitor & Community Liaison Brian Corr at brian@elefalvl.org.

Waste Tire Collection Event

Old tires may seem harmless, but when dumped illegally or left sitting outdoors, they can create serious problems for our community. The good news? Louisville Metro residents will have a convenient opportunity to dispose of unwanted tires during the Waste Tire Collection Event, October 1-3. This special event helps keep tires out of vacant lots, roadways, waterways, and neighborhoods while providing residents with a responsible disposal option.  Why is proper tire disposal so important? Tires easily collect rainwater, creating ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance. They can spread diseases, including West Nile virus, which has been detected in Louisville Metro. A single tire can hold enough water to support hundreds of mosquito larvae. Improperly discarded tires can also harm the environment. They can trap standing water, contribute to illegal dumping sites, become fire hazards, and create long-term cleanup costs for communities. Tire fires are especially difficult to extinguish and can release harmful pollutants into the air and surrounding environment. Whether you're cleaning out a garage, tackling a property cleanup project, or simply getting rid of a few worn-out tires, proper recycling helps protect public health, reduce environmental impacts, and keep Louisville looking its best.  📅 October 1, 2, & 3, 2026 ⏰ Thursday & Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ⏰ Saturday, 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 📍 1030 Phillips Lane, Louisville, KY (across from the Kentucky Exposition Center) Any Kentucky resident or business may participate, with the exception of tire retailers, scrap/salvage yards, and recycling facilities. More info: https://louisvilleky.gov/events/waste-tire-collection-event Accepted Tires Tires on or off rim Passenger vehicle, light truck, and truck tires Tractor and farm implement tires Bicycle, motorcycle, golf cart, and ATV tires Not Accepted Foam-filled tires Calcium-filled tires Off-road construction tires Rubber tracks Solid tires with or without press-on rims Tires generated outside Kentucky Tires from tire retailers, scrap/salvage yards, or recycling businesses Please note that tires must be separated by type prior to arrival. For year-round tire recycling options, Louisville Metro residents can also recycle up to four passenger tires at no charge at the Waste Reduction Center or at a Pop-Up Drop-Off event. Businesses may recycle tires at the Waste Reduction Center, but there is a fee.

Waste Reduction Center Operating Hours & Price Changes

To better align operations with current staffing levels, the Waste Reduction Center will implement updated operating hours beginning August 18.

Under the new schedule, the center will be closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. In addition, the facility will close for the day at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, rather than its current 5 p.m. closing time.

Saturday operating hours will remain unchanged.

These adjustments are necessary to ensure adequate staffing throughout the day and to maintain safe, efficient service for residents. We understand schedule changes can be inconvenient, and we appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we adapt to current workforce needs.

Residents are encouraged to plan visits accordingly and use the Recycle Coach mobile app to receive real-time updates. The Waste Reduction Center website will also show the most up-to-date information.

West Nile Mosquitoes Found Across City

Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) is conducting mosquito fogging in neighborhoods where mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been found. Fogging helps reduce mosquitoes and lower the risk of illness.

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been found in monitoring traps in at least 25 neighborhoods this summer. Jefferson County recorded 12 human cases in 2025, and two cases so far this year.

Fogging takes place during the early morning or evening hours when mosquitoes are most active and bees and other pollinators are inactive. The insecticide used for mosquito control is approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and is applied in very small amounts.

What to do when a fogging truck is in your area

• Keep children away from the fogging truck.
• Go inside and remain indoors while the fogging vehicle is in the neighborhood.
• Bring pets inside.
• Close windows and doors.
• Keep air conditioning running if you use it.
• Don’t tailgate or follow the fogging truck while fogging is in progress.

Is it safe?

• The fogging mist is used in very small amounts.
• It has a very low risk to people and pets when used as directed.
• The product used, Zenivex, breaks down quickly and does not stay in the environment for long.

Visit the department's website to see current mosquito fogging areas and maps and prevention resources.

For fogging updates, call the Mosquito Fogging Hotline at 502-574-6641.

Report mosquito concerns to Metro311 by dialing 311 or 502-574-5000.

To be alerted by text message when mosquito fogging occurs in your neighborhood, opt in for LENSAlerts with your cell phone. Text “LENSALERT” to 67283 to start receiving fogging notifications in your area.

Mosquito Prevention Resources When temperatures rise above 50 degrees, mosquitoes become active, with peak season running from May through October. To help protect residents from mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) takes several steps to reduce mosquito populations across the community: Reduce breeding areas: More than 385 locations that collect standing water—such as wooded areas, flood-prone zones, drainage easements, and vacant properties—are treated to prevent mosquitoes from developing. Treat catch basins: About 14,500 sewer catch basins are treated several times each year. These structures hold water and can serve as ideal mosquito breeding sites if left untreated. Monitor mosquito activity: Traps placed across the community collect mosquitoes for testing. When mosquitoes carrying diseases like West Nile virus are detected, targeted spraying is used to reduce both larvae and adult mosquitoes. Use natural controls: Gambusia, small native fish that feed on mosquito larvae, are used in creeks, ponds, and other standing water areas to naturally reduce mosquito populations. Residents can also take simple steps to protect themselves and reduce mosquito breeding around their homes: Learn how to protect yourself from mosquito bites Watch this video on reducing standing water around your home to prevent mosquito breeding grounds. Report mosquito concerns by calling Metro311 (311 or 502-574-5000)

Zoning Matters: Conversations with a City Planner

Have a question about zoning in your neighborhood? Wondering how developments get approved? Planning impacts how our neighborhoods grow, what the future of Louisville looks like, and where we live. Louisville Metro’s Office of Planning is hosting open Q&A sessions at library branches on select Tuesday afternoons. These sessions are free and open to the public – no RSVP required. The goal of these conversations is simple: to make the planning process clearer and easier to understand.

Small Developer Loan Program

Louisville Metro’s Small Developer Loan Program (SDLP) provides partially forgivable loans to emerging local developers for the rehabilitation of vacant structures into affordable housing. Projects may support homeownership or rental housing but must meet affordability requirements for households earning 80% or less of the area median income (AMI).

The program aims to expand access to lending capital for new developers, improve neighborhood housing conditions, and increase Louisville’s supply of affordable housing.

The Office of Housing & Community Development will host an in-person informational session for the next round of SDLP funding.

The eligibility application opened on August 26. Interested developers must first submit materials to become certified as an Approved Small Developer. Once approved, developers may submit a specific project for funding consideration.

Learn more about program eligibility, the application process, and funding opportunities at the Small Developer Loan Program webpage.

Stay informed with Public Works & Metro Department of Transportation Alerts

Sign up to receive email or text notifications from Louisville Metro Public Works and the Louisville Metro Department of Transportation (LouDOT). Alerts will include updates on paving projects, LouDOT-managed road closures, road improvement projects, weather and snow event communications, public meeting notices, and other important transportation-related information. To get started, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/public-works, scroll to the bottom and enter your address, and then enter your email to sign up for specific alerts. Please note: This is a new notification service. We are currently building our subscriber list and will begin sending alerts once the service is launched. Sign up now to be among the first to receive updates.

NEW Louisville Metro Paving Dashboard

View upcoming paving projects on the Public Works Paving page and the interactive Louisville Metro Paving Dashboard. You can also view the current rated conditions of each road.