Ben's Pen: A Note from CM Reno-Weber

Dear District 8,

February is the month of love, and it's a great time to reflect on what brings us together as a community. Whether it's the love for our city, our neighbors, or simply the spirit of connection, there's so much to appreciate about the way we come together in District 8.

As we celebrate Black History Month, it's important to honor the incredible contributions of the Black community to our neighborhood. Did you know that Louisville was the home of the first African American-owned and operated newspaper in Kentucky, the Louisville Defender? Founded in 1909, it played a crucial role in amplifying the voices and concerns of Black Louisvillians. We also recognize leaders like Gigi Talbott, who has made a significant impact by supporting Black-owned businesses. Let’s celebrate the strength and resilience of Black history not only in February but every month.

Now, for some local updates: The Louisville Water Tower is open for tours every second Sunday of the month. If you’ve never visited, this is a chance to learn about a piece of our city’s rich history. Also, the MSD Emergency Wastewater Rate Assistance Program (EWRAP) is helping qualifying households save on wastewater charges, ensuring that essential services are accessible to all. Check it out if you or someone you know could benefit!

The Louisville Nature Center has some exciting offerings, including a Valentine’s Candle-lit Hike and a Lakeside Swim Club sponsorship raffle. If you’re looking for a unique way to spend time outdoors or want a chance to win a membership, head over to their website for more details. They’re right next door to us, and I know many of you enjoy their programs.

Lastly, I’ll be hosting an informative session on Section 8 Housing on March 19th at the Highlands Shelby Park Library. If you're interested in learning more about affordable housing options in Louisville, this is a great opportunity to get informed and ask questions.

Thanks for being such an engaged and passionate community. Let’s keep the love going this February and beyond!

Ben

The Louisville Water Tower Is Open for Tours!

The Water Tower is open for tours on the second Sunday of every month, with an upcoming date on February 9th! Don’t miss this chance to experience a piece of Louisville history! Get your tickets here!

MSD EWRAP Program

We know that times are tough for many families in our community, and access to essential services like water and wastewater management shouldn’t be a burden. That’s why I want to make sure you know about Louisville MSD’s Emergency Wastewater Rate Assistance Program (EWRAP)—a vital program offering a 30% discount on MSD wastewater charges for qualifying low-income households in Jefferson, Oldham, and Bullitt Counties.

If you’re eligible for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), you may also qualify for the EWRAP discount on your MSD bill. Even if you don’t qualify for LIHEAP, you may still be eligible based on household income thresholds.

Visit https://louisvillemsd.org/ewrap to see if you’re eligible and enroll.

Louisville Nature Center updates

Louisville Nature Center updates

Even though the Louisville Nature Center isn’t in District 8, it’s right next door, and many of our neighbors love and support the amazing work they do! They’ve got a few exciting opportunities coming up that we wanted to share:

• Summer Camp Educators Opportunities: If you love nature and working with kids, this could be the perfect summer gig. The Louisville Nature Center is hiring educators for their fun and educational camps. Apply here: Employment Opportunities
• Lakeside Sponsorship Raffle: Want a shot at a Lakeside Swim Club membership? They’re raffling off a sponsorship again this year—don’t miss your chance! Get your tickets here: Lakeside Raffle

The Louisville Nature Center is a gem for our whole community. If you haven’t been, it’s a great time to check it out!

Learn More About Section 8 Housing!

Access to safe, stable, and affordable housing is a cornerstone of a thriving community. To help individuals and families better understand housing resources available in Louisville, I am partnering with the Louisville Metro Housing Authority to host an informative session on the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, commonly known as Section 8.

This event will provide valuable insights into the rental assistance process, program eligibility, and opportunities for both tenants and landlords to participate. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about affordable housing in our city, we encourage you to attend.

Date: March 19th, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Location: Highlands Shelby Park Library, 1250 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204

Ensuring that all members of our community have access to quality housing is a priority for our city. Whether you are a tenant seeking assistance, a landlord interested in participating in the program, or simply want to stay informed on housing initiatives, we welcome your participation in this important discussion.

For additional details, please visit www.LMHA1.org

Stay in the Know with the Highlands-Douglass Neighborhood Association!

Want to be the first to hear about important neighborhood updates, community events, and ways to get involved? The HDNA Newsletter keeps you informed about traffic and safety improvements (like new speed humps!), local government updates, and upcoming neighborhood events. It’s also a great way to stay connected with your community, learn about our history, and find ways to make a difference. The latest edition focuses on walkability and even features an article by me! Check it out here.

23rd Annual Black History Month Program Honoree

We are proud to announce the District 8 honoree, Gigi Talbott, for her incredible contributions to economic empowerment, small business development, and financial literacy, especially for Black entrepreneurs and underserved communities. She will be honored at the 23rd Annual Black History Month Program, organized by Councilwoman Dr. Barbara Shanklin and the Community Affairs Committee. As Louisville’s first African American female Small Business Development Coordinator, she has helped 24 Black and minority-owned businesses open their doors in 2024 alone through strategic partnerships with METCO, CDFIs, and local financial institutions. Her impact extends beyond government. From her leadership in Louisville Metro Economic Development to founding Talbott Services LLC, she has championed financial literacy, business advising, and equitable access to resources across Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. A true trailblazer, Gigi’s work is guided by faith, family, and a steadfast commitment to ensuring Black entrepreneurs and small business owners have the tools to succeed. We’re grateful for her dedication to building a stronger, more inclusive Louisville!

Highlands Hero

We are thrilled to announce our Highlands Hero for February, Debra Richards Harlan! Debra has been living in the Highlands Neighborhood for 13 years and has been very involved in the District 8 community. She encourages the neighborhood to remain urban, walkable and, weird. Her goal for the community is to have diversity of incomes, outlooks, and businesses forming a community of the whole.

Dad Joke of the Week

Councilmember Ben Reno-Weber  |   Louisville Metro Council   |   District 8

601 West Jefferson Street, Third Floor

Louisville, Kentucky 40202

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