Louisville Metro Parks and Recreation announces Michelle King as Executive Director

Above,from left to right:  Ben Johnson, Sarah Flarshiem, Bridget Frailey, Michelle King, Mesude Duyar, Nathan Maiwald, and Jason Canuel. 

The District 10 Metro Council office was represented at the Mayor's Gallery Friday for the announcement of Louisville Parks and Recreation's new executive director,   . 

Michelle King, a dedicated member of Louisville Metro Government for nearly 20 years, is the new Executive Director for Louisville Parks and Recreation, effective June 24, 2024.

“As a lifelong Louisvillian, I know what an asset our parks are to our community, our wellbeing and our quality of life – and based on recent investments, I know Mayor Greenberg, city and state leaders recognize that as well,” said Michelle King. “Every park serves our community, and every park deserves our best, as do the 360 team members across Parks and Recreation and the service they provide for our city every day. Thank you to Mayor Greenberg and Deputy Mayor Nicole George for this inspiring opportunity.”

As Executive Director, King will move forward long-term goals for Louisville Parks and Recreation, which consists of 123 parks, 14 community centers and more than 13,000 acres of land across the City of Louisville.

King has worked for Louisville Metro Air Pollution Control District since 2005, most recently in the role of Assistant Director. King earned a law degree from Indiana University Maurer School of Law and a master’s degree in public affairs and environmental policy from O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.

Zoofari Gala will be a Wild Night of “Red PANDAmonium” Friday, June 7

43rd annual fundraising gala to benefit animal care and conservation education

Louisville Zoo’s premiere gala, Zoofari, coordinated and hosted by Friends of the Louisville Zoo Board, is Friday, June 7! This year’s “Red PANDAmonium” themed gala celebrates Sundara the red panda, one of the newest additions to the Louisville Zoo family. Zoofari attracts over 400 attendees and tickets sell quickly! Guests will enjoy creative cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, live music, a silent auction, a performance by River Lotus Lion Dance, a bourbon pull and more. Guests attending the full event program also experience exclusive animal encounters, a cocktail reception, live auction, a three-course meal and — for this year only — select lanterns from the Wild Lights lantern festival. Partygoers are encouraged to get black-tie creative to fit the “Red PANDAmonium” event theme. The event will raise funds to support the renovation of the MetaZoo Discovery Center and Animal Ambassador Program. Zoofari will begin at 6 p.m. and continue until 11 p.m. A late-night ticket option is also available with entry at 8:30 p.m. Visit https://louisvillezoo.org/zoofari for tickets. All guests must be 21 years of age or older.

Louisville Zoo’s popular red panda got new digs for his birthday

One of the Louisville Zoo's most beloved animals — Sundara (Sunny D), the red panda — is now back on exhibit in a totally new space, after being moved in time for his May 23 birthday.

Sunny D’s new location makes him exhibit neighbors with the Zoo’s trio of Linnaeus’s two-toed sloths and provides more room for the two-year-old panda to explore and relax. His new surroundings boast two large outdoor areas as well as offering the potential to house multiple red pandas in the future.

Dan Maloney, director of the Louisville Zoo emphasized the habitat’s role in supporting the broader conservation efforts of the Red Panda Species Survival Plan.

“With this new habitat, the Louisville Zoo continues its commitment to the care and conservation of endangered species like the red panda by not only providing a nurturing environment for Sunny D, but also the opportunity for potential offspring.”

Red pandas love to climb, and Sunny D’s new abode is outfitted with a network of climbing elements that span the length of the habitat. This structure is specially designed from sizeable pieces of an Osage orange tree that succumbed to a storm at Joe Creason Park and was donated to the Zoo by Metro Parks. Additional hollow trees offer cozy spots for Sunny D’s other favorite pastime, napping.

Lush bamboo plants enrich his new home, offering diverse feeding opportunities. The dwelling is also equipped with large fans and shaded areas to help Sunny D stay cool, along with a comfortable indoor bedroom.

YouTube video of Sunny D's new space https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-nQDl57HT0

In addition to providing a superior living space for Sunny D, the Zoo plans to introduce an immersive behind-the-scenes experience with red pandas. This will include naturalistic log training stations for VIP encounters and daily keeper chats for guests.

The Highly Anticipated Return of ROARchestra is July 6! 

Partnership between the Louisville Zoo and Louisville Orchestra brings back popular ROARchestra Concert for a wild evening of music and wildlife July 6 The Louisville Zoo and Louisville Orchestra are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of ROARchestra on Saturday, July 6 at the Louisville Zoo. Following a 15-year hiatus, this beloved family-friendly event combines the excitement of a visit to the Zoo with the soul-stirring sounds of the Louisville Orchestra, creating an unforgettable experience.

“Partnering with Louisville Orchestra to resurrect ROARchestra is super exciting! We are so grateful to Graham Parker and Teddy Abrams for their resourceful leadership and innovative spirit to give this amazing gift back to our community,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “The return of the event is among the top requests our staff receives. ROARchestra is packed with nostalgia and our patrons have such fond memories of attending incredible live performances at the Zoo. We hope to help our guests create new, even more awesome memories in July with ROARchestra’s return and look forward to growing our partnership with the Louisville Orchestra.”

Below, Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney and Chief Executive of the Louisville Orchestra Graham Parker at the announcement Wednesday. 

"We are excited to bring ROARchestra back to Louisville after 15 years," said Graham Parker, Chief Executive of the Louisville Orchestra. "Ever since my arrival in Louisville, not a week will go by when someone asks if ROARchestra will ever be returning, so we are thrilled to say this year that we are. This event is a testament to the incredible partnership between the Louisville Orchestra and the Louisville Zoo, offering a truly unique experience that combines the beauty of wildlife with the power of live music." Doors open at 7 p.m. allowing guests to explore the Zoo or get settled in the Oasis Field. The concert, conducted by Teddy Abrams, begins at 8:30 p.m. under the stars. Abrams will be joined by guest vocalists Jason Clayborn and Daria Raymore with backup singers Teaira Dunn, CeCe Dunn, and Latiana Clayborn. The evening will be a blend of classical masterpieces with soulful pop hits. This unique fusion promises a lineup that will resonate with audiences of all tastes. The concert will kick off with Leonard Bernstein’s energetic Three Dance Episodes from “On the Town,” setting the stage for an unforgettable musical journey. Audiences will then be immersed in the profound depths of Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, a true masterpiece that will captivate and inspire. Prepare to be moved by the soul-stirring renditions of timeless classics by legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and Lionel Richie. The incredible vocalists will deliver powerful performances of hits like "Endless Love“ "It’s A Man’s World," and "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough." Their extraordinary talent will leave you in awe and have you singing along with them all night. Tickets are $30 for adults, and $15 for children 3-11. Children 2 and under are admitted free, Parking is included with admission. Concessions, including adult libations, will be available for purchase. This event is expected to sell out; the Zoo and the Orchestra encourage guests to get their tickets early at louisvillezoo.org/roar.

Kentucky Humane Society raising money for Louisville’s Animal & Community Center

This facility, to be located on five acres off Preston Highway near I-65, will allow the Kentucky Humane Society to expand its animal sheltering and human/animal social services programs. Your investment will ensure Jefferson County’s companion animals are given the quality of life, resources and families they deserve, and will help LMAS regain “no-kill” status. The new Animal & Community Center will allow KHS to make a greater impact in our city by: Transferring More Animals from Louisville Metro Animal Services KHS is Louisville Metro Animal Services’ (LMAS) largest transport partner. Animal transfers help reduce overcrowding and euthanasia at LMAS and save tax dollars. The new facility will increase our cat/dog holding by 40 percent, so we can help more local pets and animals from LMAS. Reducing Pet Overpopulation Our S.N.I.P. Clinic has provided over 156,000 spay/neuter surgeries since opening in 2007 – reducing pet overpopulation. To help LMAS prepare more pets for adoption, once a month the S.N.I.P. Clinic provides a special LMAS-only day to spay/neuter 40 animals. Providing Vet Care & Resources to Struggling Pet Owners Last week our CARE-a-van mobile veterinary clinic spent the day at Louisville Central Community Center (Muhammad Ali Blvd and 13th Street), providing free vaccines, pet food and supplies to needy pets. The CARE-a-van provides basic vet care to 6,200 animals a year in low-income neighborhoods, and our Pet Resource Services provides counseling and resources to over 8,000 families a year – helping keep pets healthy, happy, in homes and out of shelters.

2025 Budget Hearing Schedule

Budget hearings continue after the Monday holiday with meetings Wednesday and Thursday, continuing until the June 20 Metro Council vote.  Links to the Mayor's proposed budget, the Budget hearing schedule, and other related information are at: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council

Louisville's Urban Forest Master Plan - share your thoughts

Invite us over: We'd love to come meet with your club, group, or neighborhood and your next gathering. We can share more about the project and Louisville tree canopy, and you can make sure your priorities and concerns are heard. Contact morgan@treeslouisville.org to schedule. 

Provide input through an online survey: LouisvilleTreePlan.org. Or plan to attend one of the workshops listed above. 

Juneteenth Jubilee Celebration 2024 events

Juneteenth is a platform dedicated to organizing and celebrating Juneteenth in Louisville. Our mission is to provide a space for people to learn about the significance of Juneteenth and participate in events and activities that honor the holiday. Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, commemorates the day on June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced that all enslaved people were to be freed. This came two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued and marked a significant turning point in the fight for freedom and equality.

On our website, you'll find resources and information about the history of Juneteenth, as well as details about events and activities happening in Louisville. We believe that Juneteenth is not just a holiday, but a symbol of hope and progress. We're committed to creating a space where people can come together to celebrate this important event and continue the work of building a more just and equitable society.

Belle of Louisville cruises to highlight African American Heritage

The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage joins the Belle of Louisville’s Our River City cruise to highlight African American Heritage on the Ohio River, the intersection between art, culture, and the environment – so important to the River City.

The River City owes much of its authentic culture to the many African American men and women who labored to make it so. Join us on a heritage cruise as we take a journey back in time to explore the stories of some extraordinary people who built the River City experience as we know it today.

The cruise experiences will include staffed information tables, live presentations, and a performance.

Friday, June 7, 1 to 3 p.m. highlights include: 

• A narrated presentation about the history of Louisville and Southern Indiana through a unique perspective – the Ohio River.
• A vignette performance of “Songbird of the South: The Real Mary Ann Fisher Story,” a one-woman performance by Marjorie Marshall. This brief evocative account is part of Louisville Tourism’s Unfiltered Truth Collection produced and performed at KCAAH. The performance chronicles Fisher's life from her tragic and traumatic childhood in Henderson, Kentucky to her ascension to be one of the first talented singers whose life and art became professionally and personally intertwined with the legendary Ray Charles.
• An exhibition showcasing award-winning photographs from the annual Ripple Effects: Exploring Water in Louisville Photo Contest, by K-12 students who captured images of what water means to them. Water is a vital element to life on Earth and our city is fortunate to be nestled along the mighty Ohio River.

Friday, June 14, 1 to 3 p.m.

• A narrated presentation about the history of Louisville and Southern Indiana through a unique perspective – the Ohio River.
• Jug Band Music in the River City,  a presentation by Michael L. Jones, Louisville journalist, and author of “Louisville Jug Music: From Earl McDonald to National Jubilee”. Jones will be on deck to discuss how Jug Band music was forged on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers during the nineteenth century. Jug band music was the early soundtrack for a new nation, and the River City was at the heart of it all.
• An exhibition showcasing award-winning photographs from the annual Ripple Effects: Exploring Water in Louisville Photo Contest, by K-12 students who captured images of what water means to them. Water is a vital element to life on Earth and our city is fortunate to be nestled along the mighty Ohio River.

Ticket information is here!

Smell something? Report odors to the Air Pollution Control District

If you smell something, call 574-6000, fill out the reporting form on the APCD website, report on Metro311, or download and report through the Smell MyCity app. 

Your reports help APCD Compliance Officers investigate, address, and proactively monitor for odor issues. Report with as much detail as you can using the method that works best for you. 

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is coming to the Iroquois Amphitheater in June, and groups can save on admission

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is coming to the Iroquois Amphitheater June 14 to 23, and groups buying tickets through Group Sales get a discount. Groups of 15 and larger get a 15 percent discount on admission. Box office hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays at 1080 Amphitheater Road. Read more about Joseph and the lineup of summer entertainment at iroquoisamphitheater.com. 

Remember the Camp Taylor Elementary School pantry as you shop

Tiffany Bolling from the Family Resource Center has reached out to request food donations for the school pantry at Camp Taylor Elementary School. 

Not only do we feed our students and their families at Camp Taylor and Audubon Traditional Elementary Schools, we also have a food pantry in front of the school to feed the community. 

Our pantry is usually stocked through Dare to Care, but the food goes so quickly. Our homeless demographic has doubled from last school year. I am trying to keep up with the nutritional support I can provide, but it's a struggle.

If you are able to assist in getting us food to fill our pantry, donations can be sent to: Camp Taylor Elementary School, The Kid Connection FRC, 1446 Belmar Drive, Louisville, KY, 40213. 

Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness Community Health Needs Assessment 

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness wants to know what you think our community needs to improve overall good health and wellbeing. Please scan the QR code above or use this link to provide them with feedback. The survey is available in several languages. 

Your survey responses will help them understand and plan for programs, services, and solutions to help people live their best lives. 

Monthly Food Pantry at St Agnes Parish in partnership with Dare to Care

The monthly Food Pantry at St. Agnes Parish, in partnership with Dare to Care, distributes food to approximately 150 guest families the fourth Saturday of each month. The pantry operates from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and is open to all Louisville residents. Guests are served via a drive-through format.

District 10 events

Community Sanctuary Project canvassing this weekend for May 27 and 28 outreach in Petersburg

The Community Sanctuary Project in The Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods will again canvas this weekend in District 10 for a two-day deployment from May 27 - 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. each day at the Forest Baptist Church, 4500 Petersburg Road.

The Community Sanctuary Project is a mobilized network of local faith leaders and clinicians that deploys spiritual and emotional support where gun violence is prevalent. 

Our mission is to champion and deliver harmony, love and peace into a community that experiences any secondary trauma and concerns brought by violence. We bring an unconditional presence of love and support into our communities when and where it is needed most. 

Louisville Nature Center

Louisville Nature Center Events - view complete list

Master Gardeners Q & A Panel- Ask the Experts! 

Wednesday, September 25, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Admission s $5 for members, $15 for potential members. Come prepared with all your fall gardening questions and learn from the experts! This will be the perfect chance to gain new knowledge, share success stories, seek answers for those pesky problem areas, and mingle with other gardeners. Topics will include basics of fall gardening, seed saving and managing your garden beds. 

Enchanted Forest Saturday, October 12, 7 to 10 p.m. Join us for an unforgettable evening! Experience LNC programming first hand, enjoy craft cocktails in the Nature Play Area while listening to live music, and get an exclusive peek at LNC's plan for the future.

LMAS news and announcements

Party to help raise money for LMAS

How to be a responsible pet owner in Louisville 

Good dogs you haven't met yet - Griffin! 

Sundial and her magnificent ears are also available for adoption

Highlands-Shelby Park Library events

Kids Club, May 28, 3:30 to 5 p.m. Drop in every Tuesday for some afternoon fun. Each week will be a different activity. Crafts, board games, LEGOs and more! Ages 4-10.  Teen Advisory Board, May 28, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Get involved with the Highlands-Shelby Park Library’s Teen Advisory Board! Help us plan upcoming programs and initiatives occurring at the Teen Outpost. Gain leadership skills and experience, represent your peers, make friends, and have a good time! For grades 8-12. Teen Post-Up, May 28, 6 to 8 p.m. Join us at the Outpost for a weekly night of board games, video games, and snacks! Ages 10-19.  Teen Art Club, May 29, 3 to 5 p.m. Join us as we envision and create! Different mediums will be explored every month, including painting, collaging, clay sculpting, and more! Ages 10-19. Read the Movies Club, May 29, 6 to 8 p.m. Help us decide—which was better, the book or the movie? Each month we’ll select a popular picture or chapter book, and have copies available for check out. Join us at the end of the month, when we’ll read our selection (or a short excerpt) aloud and watch a film adaptation. Then we will take a vote on the winner and display the results in our Children’s Area! Some light snacks and refreshments will be provided. This month's selection is James and the Giant Peach.  Baby Storytime, May 30, 10:15 to 11 a.m. A storytime for developing pre-literacy skills and a love of reading through books, songs, movement and activities. Ages 0-24 months. Toddler Storytime, May 30, 11:15 a.m. to noon. A storytime for developing pre-literacy skills and a love of reading through books, songs, movement and activities. Ages 2-3. Teen Lounge,  May 30, 3 to 4:30 p.m. For long-time anime lovers and newcomers alike, join us every week as we watch popular films and series from your favorite genres. Ages 10-19. Family Storytime, May 30, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. A storytime for developing literacy skills and a love of reading through books, songs, movement and activities. Ages 3-6.  Creative Writing Club, May 30, 6 to 8 p.m. Come together with other young writers to share work, get constructive critique, and discuss everything about the writing process.  Ages 10-19.

Through June 16 - Wild Lights at the Louisville Zoo 

The Louisville Zoo is excited to announce the extension of Wild Lights, now glowing through June 16. This extension coincides with May’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and the launch of a photo contest in celebration of National Photo Month inviting guests to capture and share their experiences at the magical lantern festival.

Wild Lights features a 1.4-mile trail adorned with more than 60 hand-crafted illuminated art displays depicting scenes from nature, coral reefs and figures from Chinese mythology. Guests will enjoy a beautiful outdoor stroll complete with live cultural performances nightly including agility and acrobatics, mask-changing and more. Special handcrafted goods, Asian-inspired food and craft cocktails are available for purchase during festival evenings. Wild Lights is wheelchair and stroller friendly and runs from 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Sunday nights. Event capacity is limited; the Zoo recommends guests reserve desired dates early.

Free 5K run/walk every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Joe Creason Park

The Joe Creason parkrun is a free 5K that meets every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Joe Creason Park. Come join your friends and neighbors - parkrun is family and dog friendly and you can walk, jog or run or volunteer. More information can be found at parkrun.us/joecreason. They're also on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Louisville Metro events

June 4 - next Zoning Matters: Conversations with a City Planner

This is the third series of conversations offered. The previous series took place in 2022 and 2023. To view a summary of these, scan the above QR code or read here. 

These conversations are part of the ongoing Land Development Code (LDC) Reform. The LDC Reform is an equity focused approach to revise the LDC consistently with Plan 2040 to allow for increased housing choices and opportunities in new and existing neighborhoods, to create procedures and regulations that are easier to use and increase the quality of life by reducing the concentration of environmental hazards near housing.

May 29 and June 1 - Middle Housing Open House

Louisville Metro’s Office of Planning invites you to attend community open house events for Middle Housing! Join us to learn more about the proposed amendment to the Land Development Code (LDC) that would allow Middle Housing throughout Louisville Metro, ask questions and discuss with Planning staff, and provide feedback. Visit www.louisvilleky.gov/middlehousing for more information and to review the draft amendment.

These are open-house style events, so there will be no formal presentation. Please join us when it is most convenient for you. 

• May 29, 4 to 7 p.m. at Sun Valley Community Center, 6505 Bethany Lane
• June 1, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Locust Grove, 561 Blankenbaker Lane

June 1 - next 2024 Solarize Louisville workshop

Solarize Louisville partners Mayor's Office of Sustainability, Kentucky Solar Energy Society (KYSES), and the Louisville Sustainability Council as well as the two installers, Icon Solar and Pure Power Solar.

Both Icon Solar and Pure Power Solar are offering the same standard panel price along with an 12-18 percent discount, ensuring that participants receive the best possible value for their investment in solar energy. With the unfortunate rise of predatory solar companies in the region, Solarize Louisville seeks to protect consumers who are interested in investing in clean energy. 

In addition to these significant savings, participants in the Solarize Louisville program are also eligible for a 30 percent tax credit through the federal Inflation Reduction Act, further reducing the cost of transitioning to clean, renewable energy. 

Participation is open to the anyone in the following counties in Kentucky: Jefferson, Oldham, Spencer, Shelby, and Bullitt, and in Indiana: Harrison, Floyd, and Clark. 

The Solarize Louisville team will host a final workshop where you can learn more about installing solar on your property:

Solarize Louisville Workshop with Pure Power Solar  Iroquois Library at 601 W Woodlawn Avenue, Saturday, June 1, from 11 a.m. to noon. Register for the workshop here.

To learn more about Solarize Louisville and take the first step toward transitioning to renewable energy, visit www.solarizelouisville.com

June 8 - Women's Armed Services Integration Act celebration in Frankfort at the Capitol Rotunda

From Jo Ann Orr, 2022 KY Woman Veteran of the Year, 2022 KY Veteran Hall of Fame Inductee, and NABVETS Woman Liaison: 

It is that time again for all Women Veterans to celebrate each other in the Capitol of the State of Kentucky. This is our second year and I can't wait to see my fellow Sisters In Arms.

If you reside in or around the City of Louisville, there will be Motorcoaches leaving from the Veterans Womens Clinic on Newburg Road on June 8. 

Please register for the event and email me at orrja@yahoo.com if you will need a ride. There are 27,000 women in Kentucky that have served this country, and I would like to Thank You All For Your Service. SPREAD THE WORD AT HOME, CHURCH, COMMUNITY, AND ONLINE. WE NEED ALL OF OUR SISTERS TO BE RECOGNIZED. 

June 15 - Pop-Up Drop-Off at Doss High School

Louisville Metro news

How to report a pothole

Residents have three ways to report a pothole: By calling Metro311, (502-574-5000) On social media using #502pothole On Public Works' website at gov/government/public-works/services/report-pothole-or-other-city-services-issue

Protect your family by testing your home for Radon - free test kits are available

Litter Collection and Mowing Calendar 

Jefferson County Legal Help Center offering hours Tuesdays

Assistance

The Office for Aging and Disabled Citizens' newest edition of the OADC Resource Guide is available now. The updated resources guide connects aging and disabled citizens, along with their caregivers, to a variety of service providers, government agencies and non-profit organizations in the city of Louisville. View or print the updated resource guide.

Kentucky's Employee Child Care Assistance Partner Program

The Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership (ECCAP) helps employers meaningfully  contribute financial assistance directly to employee child care costs by matching their contribution up to 100 percent, potentially doubling the value of their employer-provided benefit. All funds from the employer and the state are paid directly to eligible child care providers. Various program restrictions apply. Learn more at the Kentucky Chamber's ECCAP resource page, Kentucky's ECCAP program page, or by email.

Help with prescription medication copays may be possible through the Kentucky Prescription Assistance Program. Call 1-800-633-8100, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The Louisville Metro Down Payment Assistance Program provides low- to moderate-income homebuyers with down payment and closing cost assistance for purchasing a home in the Louisville Metro area.

The Team Kentucky Homeowner Assistance Fund is a program that can help homeowners impacted by the pandemic rebound and avoid foreclosure. Qualifying homeowners can apply for up to $46,350 in assistance to help with delinquent mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowner’s and/or flood insurance, homeowners association fees and utility costs. 

If you're 65 years old, own and occupy your primary residence, you may qualify to exempt the first $39,300 of your home value from property taxes through the The Homestead Exemption. Vets with service connected disabilities and totally/permanently disabled civilians may also qualify.

Locate Dare to Care food assistance locations, which include St. Stephen Martyr at 3015 Greenup Road, from 3:45 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays. Please call before visiting sites to verify hours of operation. 

Meals on Wheels is available to qualified seniors in Jefferson County, 60 years or older, who are homebound with no one available to help prepare meals. Call 574-6325 to begin the qualification process. For information on the senior congregate sites for more active seniors, 60 and older, call the number above or sign up at the RCS page. Sites require a one-day advance reservation. See the updated list of open congregate sites.  The Senior Nutrition Program seeks volunteers all year long to help in a variety of capacities. For more information, call 574-6420.

It's okay to not be okay - help is available so connect 

Mental health experts recommend connecting with others and talking about how you're feeling. Don’t isolate yourself. Dial 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Text “LOU” to 741741 Crisis Text Line Community Wellness Hub Mental Health Lou 502-414-4380 The Black Counseling & Consulting Collective 502-589-4313 Seven Counties 24/7 Adult Crisis Line 502-589-8070 Seven Counties 24/7 Child Crisis Line 502-583-3951 Seven Counties 24/7 Addiction Help Line 502-792-7011 Collective Care Center at Spalding University 502-588-2008 NAMI Louisville 1-800-273-8255 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-888-843-4564 LGBT National Help Center

Trauma-trained mental health specialists are available at all eight Louisville Neighborhood Place locations for immediate and free assistance for any Louisville resident dealing with violence or other trauma. Appointments and walk-ins are accepted. The city has also set up a trauma hotline that is free to call: 901-0100.

LMPD - which numbers to call for emergencies, non-emergencies, and ongoing criminal activity complaints

The most efficient manner to report crime and/or request to speak to an officer is to call Metrosafe Dispatch at 574-2111 (5) Furthermore, if the efforts of the officer were not reasonably adequate to address the concern or issue, a citizen can immediately call Metrosafe back and request for an LMPD supervisor to contact them.  For non-emergencies, dial 574-2111 (5)  for non-violent crimes, non-injury auto accidents, or to report a crime that has already occurred.  For emergencies, dial 911 for violent crime in progress, serious injury auto accidents, or immediate threat to human life.  To report ongoing criminal activity, dial 574-5673, the LMPD Tip Line, for drug dealing, prostitution, gang activity, or any information that may help close open investigations.

LMPD Public Review of Policy

From the Louisville Metro Police Department:
The LMPD is committed to engaging the public when revising our policies. The LMPD seeks feedback from the public. Below is the process the Department has implemented to ensure a deliberate and thoughtful process when revising policies.

Process

• Policies that have been revised each quarter will be posted for review and public comment.
• Changes that have been made to the previous policy will be highlighted.
• Comments will be reviewed and considered by appropriate personnel and leadership during the next policy review process.

Policy/Standard Operating Procedure updates: 

General Order #24-002 - March 2024 SOP Updates

Links to updates and online comment forms: 

https://www.louisville-police.org/882/LMPD-Public-Review-of-Policy

News you can use

District 10 CIF and NDF appropriations

Councilman Mulvihill-initiated D-10 Capital Improvement Funds (CIF) appropriations documentation dating to 2016 is linked here.  The D-10 Neighborhood Development Funds (NDF) appropriations document is linked here.

Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services District 10 cases

Note: short term rental is the general term used to describe vacation rentals including AirBNB, VRBO, and Tripping. 

Recent application to Planning and Design Services:

24-MPLAT-0066, 4200 Wallingford Lane, Application for a Minor Subdivision Plat to shift a lot line between properties in the R6 zoning district. 

24-CFR-0003, 4201 Illinois Avenue, Application for a Community Facility Review for a zoo expansion on 15.09 acres in the R5 zoning district. Kentucky Trails at the Zoo. 

24-CUP-0063, 6500 Six Mile Lane, a Conditional Use Permit to construct a gym and building addition for a private institutional use on 7.1 acres in the R4 zoning district. NUR Islamic School.

4730 Champions Trace Lane:

19-DDP-0077, 4730 Champions Trace Lane, a Revised District Development Plan for a medical office and dialysis center on 1.4 acres in the C2 zoning district. 

19-VARIANCE-0076, 4730 Champions Trace Lane, a variance from section 4.8.1 of the Land Development Code to allow the proposed pavement to encroach into the middle and outer 100-foot stream buffer for a medical office on 1.4 acres in the C2 zoning district.

1300 Eastern Parkway

23-DDP-0117, 1300 Eastern Parkway, revised submittal of a District Development Plan to construct a garage with carport and roof the existing front porch of the main house on 0.39 acres in R5A zoning.

23-VARIANCE-0179, 1300 Eastern Parkway, a Variance to allow the construction of a garage within the required private yard area on .39 acres in the R5A zoning district. 

3417 Community Horizon Circle

23-MCUP-0008, 3417 Community Horizon Circle, revised submittal of an application for a Modified Conditional Use Permit for a parking lot on 2.68 acres in the R5 zoning district. CFL Parking Lot. 

24-VARIANCE-0071, 3417 Community Horizon Circle, application for a Variance to allow parking in the side and rear setback. Day Spring.

23-MPLAT-0165, 2221 Bradford Drive, revised submittal for a minor plat to dedicate right of way on 5.46 acres in the R6 zoning district.

22-MPLAT-0044, 4322 Mildaun Road, application for a Minor Plat change to create two lots from one on .736 acres in the R-4 zoning district and SW form district. Bicker Division.

2814 Newburg Road

19-WAIVER-0112, 2814 Newburg Road, a waiver for the sidewalk requirement along Newburg Road. 
19-WAIVER-0113, 2814 Newburg Road, a waiver to allow detached houses to abut a private street.  

3560 Bashford Avenue

23-WAIVER-0116, 3560 Bashford Avenue, a Waiver of LDC Chapter 10.2.4.B.8 to omit the required landscape buffer area along a portion of the side and rear property line. TEM Group Rezoning.

24-ZONE-0038, 6400 Six Mile Lane, revised submittal for a Change in Zoning from R5 to R7 to allow a 20-unit apartment complex on 1.188 acres. Six Mile Lane Apartments. 

Short Term Rental cases

23-CUP-0367, 2041 Bashford Manor Lane, application for a Conditional Use Permit for a short-term rental of a dwelling unit that is not owner-occupied on 0.187 acr.es in the R5 zoning district.

24-CUP-0099, 1368 Barret Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on 0.312 acres in the R3 zoning district. 

23-CUPPA-0062, 3709 Willmar Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit Pre-Application for a non-primary residence Short Term Rental on 0.2602 acres in the R-4 zoning district.

23-CUP-0266, 1537 Lincoln Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on .083 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

23-CUP-0149, 1628 Belmar Drive, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on 0.1357 acres in the R-5 zoning district. 

23-CUP-0346, 3102 Bobolink Road, a Conditional Use Permit to allow a Short Term Rental on .16 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

22-CUP-0066, 1607 Orchard Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on .14 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

20-CUP-0147 for 1500 Lincoln Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a short term rental at a non primary residence on 0.18 acres in the R5 zoning district.

Check on Planning and Design Services cases.

 Locate legal Short Term Rentals with interactive map

Short term rental enforcement continues in large part to be complaint-driven, based on public reporting of alleged violations to administrators.

An interactive map tool contains all of the registered short term rentals in Louisville having an active permit to rent their property out to paying customers on STR websites like Airbnb.

If you believe someone is using a property as a short term rental but it does not show up on this registry, or if the registry indicates a non-owner occupied property does not have a CUP, then please report the issue here (select “Zoning and Business Concerns,” “Zoning Concern,” “Short Term Rental,” complete the form and submit). Or contact our office. 

An easy way to find out where Louisville Water is working

Is Louisville Water working in your area? Our website offers an easy way to find out. An interactive map shows not only construction locations but also details on the projects, including the status, type, and even the project manager's phone number. While the map shows all planned projects, please note that it currently does not display repairs on water main breaks.

Driver licensing - REAL ID enforcement date extended to May 7, 2025

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended the REAL ID Act enforcement date by two years offering Kentuckians, and residents of other states, more time to request a compliant driving or identity credential that maintains air travel access and military base entry. The enforcement date has been moved from May 3, 2023 to May 7, 2025. Read details on REAL ID.

Be informed about crimes with LMPD's crime mapping website

The Louisville Metro Police Department uses a Crime Mapping website to display crime on a map in Jefferson County. 

Zoom in to see crimes in an area, or put an address in the address bar at top left to search. You may sign up for auto email alerts for crime around an address. Reports are made available to the public after a process of internal review, often in the same day as the report taken. Due to the nature of some crimes, reports are made available to public upon the completion of a thorough investigation and will be made available as soon as practical.

These LMPD divisions serve sections of District 10:

• Link to LMPD Fourth Division 
• Link to LMPD Fifth Division
• Link to LMPD Sixth Division

Know the signs of human trafficking - you could save a life

Do you know the indicators of human trafficking? You could save a life. 

If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-373-7888 to speak with a specially trained Anti-Trafficking Hotline Advocate. Support is provided in more than 200 languages. We are here to listen and connect you with the help you need to stay safe.

Callers can dial 711 to access the Hotline using TTY. Or text at 233733. Message and data rates may apply.

You can also email at help@humantraffickinghotline.org  or submit a tip online here.

Veterans Crisis Line 

Some offices and VA hospitals offer a "Health Promotion Disease Prevention Program" that includes treatment methods including acupuncture, tai chi, and meditation instead of opioids, and they work with the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, Press 1) to provide support and treatment for PTSD and depression, the leading cause of suicide for veterans.

Additional references for VA material and assistance or 1-877-WAR-VETS. Lifestyle changes for better health, or sexual trauma.

"Embrace the Journey" website for parents of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents

For LGBTQ+ children and adolescents,a parent’s support makes all the difference. The Embrace the Journey website is designed to educate the parents of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents about how to give children the emotional support they need.

Streetlight out? Report it. 

Please report non-working streetlights to LG&E.  Report a hazard on a state road or highway, such as non-working highway lighting or potholes.

Reporting potholes

• Report online. 
• 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. 

Report litterers

Get directly involved in making Louisville a more litter-free community through the Report-A-Litterer program aimed at motorists who throw fast-food wrappers, cigarette butts, soda bottles or any type of litter out their car window.

Help stop wire theft along Kentucky's highways

• Report any information about wire thefts at Kentucky interchanges to the KYTC Office of
  Inspector General (OIG) Office at 502-330-7506. If your information leads to an arrest and conviction, you may be eligible for the $5,000 reward.
• Report active crimes or suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
• Report dark intersections to the KYTC Traffic Operations Center at 877-FOR-KYTC

Would you like to serve on one of Louisville Metro's Boards or Commissions? 

Are you interested in volunteering?  Louisville Metro Government has more than 70 boards and commissions - everything from the board of the Louisville Water Company to Metro Parks to the Louisville Planning Commission. We are always in search of citizens willing to serve on boards. Most boards are voluntary-based and are not paid but the reward of serving pays big dividends to our community.

To complete an application, please visit   https://louisvilleky.gov/government/mayor-craig-greenberg/interested-serving-board-or-commission

If you know of a community event you'd like to be considered for inclusion on the District 10 enews, let us know. Please email our office: sara.feltner@louisvilleky.gov or call 574-1110.

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