State Auditor Releases Report on Metropolitan Sewer District

I hear regularly from District 24 residents who are feeling the impact of rising utility costs, and they deserve to know that the dollars they send to MSD are being managed responsibly. Before ratepayers are asked to pay more, we should be able to demonstrate that we have done everything possible to control costs, eliminate unnecessary spending and provide appropriate oversight. The State Auditor’s findings give us important information to work from. My focus as Vice-Chair of the Government Oversight and Accountability Committee will be on getting answers, understanding how these issues will be addressed, and making sure the ratepayers we represent remain at the center of that conversation.

In late 2024, members of the Louisville Metro Council, led by Councilman Scott Reed (District 16) and Councilman Anthony Piagentini (District 19), held a press conference announcing their efforts to request that Kentucky Auditor of Public Accounts Allison Ball conduct a comprehensive review of the Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD).

The request followed another year in which MSD sought the highest rate increase permitted without requiring approval by the Metro Council. Over the seven years leading up to the audit, the MSD Board requested annual rate increases of 6.9%, the maximum allowed without a Metro Council vote.

The request also followed concerns raised with members of the Metro Council and Kentucky General Assembly regarding executive compensation and benefits, sponsorships, and purchasing practices.

Following the fall 2024 press conference, State Representatives Jared Bauman (District 28), Jason Nemes (District 33), and Susan Witten (District 31) began working on proposed changes to Kentucky law that would have addressed sponsorships and other activities, as well as limits on the amount MSD could increase its rates.

The legislation passed the House but did not receive final passage in the Senate before the end of the legislative session. However, the effort was followed by changes to MSD's sponsorship plans and recommendations for smaller rate increases over the next two years. These efforts, along with work by then-State Representative Kevin Bratcher (District 29), sought to strengthen oversight of the organization.

This week, State Auditor Ball released the results of her team's review. The report https://louisvillemsd.org/transparency  identified several significant concerns, including issues previously raised by members of the Metro Council, as well as additional areas warranting attention.

Highlighted concerns include:

· Senior staff received pay increases that significantly outpaced increases provided to other staff.

· MSD paid more than $6 million in bonuses to employees for completing tasks identified in the audit as part of their regular job responsibilities.

· From FY 2022 through FY 2025, vehicle stipends for senior executive staff cost MSD more than $430,000, amounting to approximately $14,000 to $16,000 annually for each executive.

· MSD's procurement system involving credit cards lacked appropriate oversight, with safeguards against unnecessary spending either ineffective or inconsistently followed.

· MSD utilized sole-source procurement practices that did not involve competitive bidding.

· MSD contributed public dollars to nonprofit organizations, including a combined $500,000 to the Louisville Water Foundation, where some MSD executive staff members serve as directors.

Daylight SavingsTime Ends November 1st - Set Your Clocks Back! 

Don't forget to set your clocks back one hour on Sunday, November 1, at 2:00 a.m. Clocks will be turned back to 1:00 a.m., marking the end of Daylight Saving Time. While you'll gain an extra hour of sleep, sunrise and sunset will occur about an hour earlier than the day before, bringing more daylight to the morning hours.

Take a moment to adjust your clocks and change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to help keep your household safe.

Find Out Where You Vote and See Your Sample Ballot

Voting is one of the greatest privileges that we have and early voting has already started. Election Day is November 3rd and you can prepare by clicking on the links below to see early voting schedules and locations and where you  vote on November 3rd and your sample ballot. (On Tuesday, November 3rd you must vote ONLY at your designated polling location.)

Thomas Jefferson said “We do not have government by the majority. We have government by the majority who participate.” So get out there and participate!

Find Early Voting Schedule and Locations by clicking here.

Find out Where You Vote and See Your Sample Ballot by clicking here.

6th Division Officer of the Month - Detective Daniel Weedman

Congratulations to Detective Daniel Weedman for being 7th Division's August Officer of the Month. His thorough investigative work and tactical persistence, led to the successful arrest of a prolific, career thief operating throughout the metro area. Following his detailed investigation into a vehicle break-in at The Parklands and the subsequent fraudulent use of the victim's credit cards, he secured an arrest warrant for Antonio Goldsberry. Recognizing Goldsberry's extensive criminal history—spanning over 175 lifetime charges, including 75 counts of theft, 68 counts of fraudulent use of credit cards, and 32 counts of criminal mischief—his work established the crucial foundation needed to bring a persistent offender to justice. On August 25, 2026, a coordinated effort across the 6th, 7th, and 8th Division IMPACT units, along with the Air Unit, tracked Goldsberry into the 8th Division. After observing him disguise himself in a construction vest to execute further vehicle break-ins, officers moved in and safely took him into custody without incident, preventing additional crimes and securing fresh charges. Detective Weedman's investigative diligence and dedication to holding repeat offenders accountable directly protected our community's property and public spaces. His efforts reflect the highest standards of the department and law enforcement profession. Congrats Detective Weedman!

7th Division Officer of the Month - Officer Natasha Sydnor Thurston

Congratulations to Officer Natasha Sydnor Thurston for being 7th Division's September Officer of the Month.  Officer Thurston always goes beyond the call of duty in her work. Recently on a run, a veteran was threatening to commit suicide because of the financial pressure that he was having. The consumer stated that he also suffers from severe PTSD and is often depressed. Officer Thurston, who is a veteran herself, was very compassionate with the consumer.  She called up her contacts with the U.S. Army dealing with veterans and inquired why this consumer was not getting the financial help that is due to him.  She was able to put the consumer in contact with an advocate to start processing his funds. Several days later, when checking on the consumer, he mentioned that Officer Thurston’s help in explaining his benefits and putting him in contact with the right people changed things for the better for him. Division 7 recognizes Officer Thurston on how she handles difficult situations with professionalism, empathy and understanding. Congrats Officer Thurston!

Happy Mall-O-Ween at Jefferson Mall- October 31st

Get ready for an afternoon of Halloween fun at Jefferson Mall featuring Halloween crafts, performances and a costume contest on October 31st, 12 PM - 4 PM.

Build An Ofrenda

Food Literacy Project Community Day - October 31st

Help celebrate the harvest season with food, culture, and connection! Visit the Food Literacy Project Farm Community Day, 4606 East Manslick Road, October 31st, 11 AM - 1 PM. This is a family friendly free event. Costumes encouraged! 

There will be a cooking activity featuring pumpkin pancakes, a Marigold art activity, farm tours, free seasonal produce and Mexico City Cultural Producer,  Diego Bucio, will share the traditions of Día de los Muertos, the ofrenda altar, and pan de muerto, plus seeds to take home! All ages and all people are welcome.

Paranormal Cirque - Jefferson Mall

Louisville, like to clear something up before the arrival at Jefferson Mall, November 13th - 16th. Apparently, there have been some rumors going around about the performers. That they only come out at midnight, they spend all their time haunting people, and that there’s no way they could be this terrifying and this talented. And that they’re alive. Honestly, where do people get this stuff? 

Fall Into Fun at the Fall Craft & Vendor Market at Jefferson Mall

Celebrate the season with a cozy, family-friendly weekend full of fall vibes and creative shopping. The Fall Fest Craft & Vendor Market will feature local vendors offering unique finds, handmade goods, seasonal décor, gifts, treats, and all things autumn. At the Jefferson Mall, 4801 Outer Loop, November 14th, 11 AM - 8PM and November 15th 12 - 6 PM.

Need Something Fixed - Sign Up for the Repair Fair - November 14th

Got a wobbly bike? A favorite shirt in need of stitching? A small appliance that just won’t cooperate? Before you toss it, bring it to the Repair Fair! kNOw Waste Louisville’s Repair Fair is happening November 14th, 1 to 4 PM at the Cyril Allgeier Community Center — and it’s your chance to give your well-loved items a second life.

Thanks to their talented volunteer fixers, they’ll be offering repairs for a wide range of items, including bikes, clothing and sewing projects, small appliances, jewelry, instruments, woodworking, metalsmithing, and more. Whether it’s something practical or sentimental, there’s a good chance someone will be able to help.

For more information or to book an appointment, click here.

Help Fill Thanksgiving Baskets for FCHUM - Deadline November 23rd

Fern Creek Highview United Ministries needs help filling Thanksgiving Baskets - share the gift of hope, food and kindness. Suggested items are tradition holiday foods and if you're not sure what to bring - a gift card is always useful. Drop items off at the Ministry, 9300 Beulah Church Road, 8:30 AM - 3 PM.

Chase Gavin Coat-A-Kid Drive - Collecting New Coats until Nov. 20th

The 6^th  Annual Chase Gavin Coat-A-Kid Drive is off and running. From now until November 20th, new winter coats will be collected for Jefferson County Public School students and others who, as witnessed by LMPD Patrol Officers, may benefit from being wrapped in warmth. These items will be distributed through Family Resource and Youth Service Coordinators and LMPD officers throughout area.

This effort, which is led by Metro Councilman Khalil Batshon, District 25, working with acting Jefferson County Clerk David Yates, the Association of Community Ministries and the Louisville Metro Police Department, honors former Louisville Metro Council District 25 staff member Chase Gavin. This will be the sixth year in which the drive has sought to serve every JCPS student and those who have an interaction with LMPD that may be in need of help.

The Drive is proud to combine efforts with the Kentucky Restaurant Association and their Taste of Louisville Event, Louisville Metro Police with their Cram the Cruiser and Coat Collection Program, as well as their Shop with a Cop Program, The Association of Community Ministries and their Christmas Help programs, along with having collection boxes for NEW coats in all Jefferson County Clerk Offices, as well as many different restaurants and businesses within Metro Louisville. Monetary donations can be made at Louisville Ministries. Coat collection sites are being added regularly. Click here for an up-to-date list of drop off locations.  All Jefferson County Clerk Offices will accept new coats.

ELEFA Community Meeting - November 9th

Please save the date for the fourth Quarterly Community Meeting, taking place in the West End.

• Monday, November 9th - Doors open at 5:30 PM - Program from 6 to 8 PM.
• Republic Bank Foundation YMCA -  1720 W. Broadway, second-floor meeting room.
• Parking is available in the YMCA lot, with additional parking at 17th and Broadway. TARC stops are in front of and beside the building.
• Light refreshments will be available starting at 5:30 PM.
• Spanish-language interpretation and ASL interpretation will be available.

As the Independent Monitor, Effective Law Enforcement for All (ELEFA) will share an update on the work under Louisville’s Community Commitment since September. Then it is your questions, your experiences, and what you think should be paid attention to as this work continues.

LMPD 7th Division Community Meeting - Save the Date

Save the date for the LMPD 7th Division Community Meeting, December 8th, 6 - 7:30 PM, Panera Bread, 10405 Southpointe Blvd. Meet with Major Andrew Williams and 7th Division Officers about public safety and neighborhood concerns.

Keep Your Pumpkin Out of the Landfill!

More than a billion pounds of pumpkins are thrown away each year in the United States.  Instead of sending yours to the landfill, give it a second life! Compost pumpkins and gourds in your backyard compost bin. Add them to your yard waste collection (check with your hauler, as service varies throughout Louisville). Take them with yard waste to a Pop-Up Drop-Off event (the last event of the year is Nov. 21st) or donate them to local farms, where cows, chickens, and other animals may enjoy them as a seasonal treat.  Keep organic waste out of the landfill and put those pumpkins to better use!

Last Pop-Up Drop-Off of the Season - November 21st

Don't miss the final Pop-Up Drop-Off event of the year on November 21st, 10 AM to 2 PM at UofL's Shelby Campus. In addition to the materials normally accepted at the events, there will be a special opportunity to recycle household batteries, which are not typically accepted at Pop-Up Drop-Off events.

Please do not arrive early! All Pop-Up Drop-Off events start at 10 AM. A line of vehicles causes traffic backups and prevents our equipment from entering. For more information, click here.

26-CUPPA-0171

Property Location - 5901 S. Watterson Trail

Property Description - Mauritanian Community Center - A Conditional Use Permit pre-application for a community service facility in the R-4 zoning district.

26-LANDSCAPE-0149

Property Location - 6875 South Hurstbourne Parkway

Property Description - South Hurstbourne Parkway Phase 1 - A clearing and grading plan application for a property in the R-6 zoning district on 24.95 acres.

26-ZONE-0132

Property Location - 5930 S. Watterson Trail

Property Description - Star Hill Commercial + Multi-Family - A General District Development Plan for commercial and multifamily.

Library Events

Looking for fun, free, and engaging activities for all ages? The South Central Regional Library (7300 Jefferson Blvd) has a variety of programs designed to bring our community together through learning, creativity, and connection.

Storytimes for Ages 0-5

Storytimes are an opportunity for families to bond over shared stories and songs, as well as engage in creative activities that reinforce a lifelong of learning. Baby Storytimes, ages 0-2 are Mondays at 10 AM, Toddler Storytimes, ages 2-3 are Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and Preschool Storytimes, ages 3-5 are Wednesdays at 11:30 AM.

All Storytimes are at the South Central Regional Library, 7300 Jefferson Blvd. For more information, call 964-3515.

Homeschool STEAM Club - Bouyancy & Density - November 9th

Calling all homeschool families! The Homeschool STEAM Club invites elementary-aged children, ages 6-12 and their families to join in a fun afternoon of hands-on learning and exploration. Upcoming Event - November 19th: Buoyancy & Density, Time: 2 PM, Location: South Central Regional Library, 7300 Jefferson Blvd.

Friends of the Library Meeting - November 9th

Friends of the LFPL will meet November 9th, 5:45 PM at the South Central Regional Library, 7300 Jefferson Blvd., (502) 964-3515. Learn how you can become involved and support your library. For more information, email https://friendsofthelfpl.com or call (502) 574-1648.

Bilingual Short Stories Book Club - November 9th

The goal of this club is to read short stories and talk about them in Spanish, while enjoying a cup of coffee or tea. The meeting location for this club is the Heine Brothers on Outer Loop, and you must be 18+ to join. The club will meet Monday, November 9th, 5:30 PM. Call the South Central Regional Library at (502) 964-3515, if you have any questions.

For further information on Councilwoman Ginny Mulvey-Woolridge or District 24 please visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council-district-24

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