District 22 E-Newsletter - July 1, 2025

d22 banner - councilman bratcher

Councilman Kevin Bratcher
601 West Jefferson Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502.574.1122

IMPORTANT NUMBERS:

LMPD 7th Division: 574-2133

LMPD Non-emergency: 574- 2111

Fern Creek Fire Dept.: 239-7075

Metro Call: 311 or 574-5000

Metro Animal Services: 473-7387

Metro Codes & Regulations: 574-2508

Metro Public Works: 574-5810

Metro Parks: 574-7275

Louisville Water Company: 583-6610

MSD: 540-6000

LG&E: 589-1444

TARC: 585-1234

South Central Regional Library: 964-3515

In this edition...


Louisville Metro Council FY26 Budget Summary

MC

By a vote of 21-4, the Metro Council approved the amended FY26 (2025-2026) Operations Budget for Louisville Metro.  The Council later voted 20-4 (with one abstention) to approve the amended FY26 Capital Budget.  In both votes, those members voting in opposition were Shameka Parrish-Wright (3), JP Lyninger (6), Josie Raymond (10), and Jennifer Chappell (15).  The abstention was by Paula McCraney (7).

For the first time since the start of Louisville’s merged government, the Mayor proposed a budget that fully funded the Council’s goals for paving ($30 million) and sustained its levels of increased support for matters such as increasing the use of technology for policing, right-of-way maintenance, sidewalk repair, park repair and numerous other aspects that the Council has placed a focus on in previous years. This decision to listen to and work with the Council led us to having a budget that truly represents the needs of all.

The Council’s amendment to the Mayor’s Budget Proposal improves the following:

  • Establishes the funding needed for creating a new First Responders Training Facility for the community.
  • Increases the funding for street markings, guard rails and other improvements to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians.
  • Invests in South End economic development by establishing programs to bring additional dining options as well as other economic development opportunities into that area.
  • Addresses many infrastructure needs in areas seeing the most growth by funding road enhancements/widening for projects at Aiken Road, Fishersville/Eastwood, Cedar Creek Road, etc.
  • Funds improvements for parks and calls for the creation of a new community center in Southwest Jefferson County along with a new gymnasium and pool located at the Sun Valley Community Center.

Significant District 22 improvements are incorporated into the budget, including:

  • $18.751 million of federal funds earmarked for Cooper Chapel Extension Phase 3.
  • $1.5 million toward improvements on Cedar Creek Road, first to connect to Beulah Church Road and then to expand exit lanes onto Bardstown Road.
  • $200,000 to obtain needed right-of-way on Dobson Lane.
  • $50,000 in additional funds (with previous funding in place) to improve the Old Bardstown Road intersection with Hillock Drive and Hillock’s connection to Bardstown Road.
  • $500,000 of capital funding support for the Fern Creek campus of the Bluegrass Center for Autism.
  • $2,000,000 of state funds appropriated for the Fern Creek Library project.

If you have any questions about the contents of the Louisville Metro Budget, please know that a copy will be posted online at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/management-budget/approved-budgets-fiscal-year. In addition, my office would be happy to answer any of your questions should you call, email, or see us at an upcoming meeting.


Un-Written Event - Sponsor &/or Participate

Un-Written.Org helps fill critical gaps that Medicaid and formal recovery or reentry programs cannot cover—supplemental needs that are often essential to a person’s success. These include things like rent assistance, transportation costs, uniforms and work boots for employment, dentures, government-issued IDs, and more.

Our goal is to provide a hand up, not a handout—to support those who are actively working to better their lives and contribute to their communities. By meeting these often-overlooked needs, we help reduce barriers to stability, employment, and long-term recovery.

For more information about our July 26th "The Climb" fundraising event (the 2nd of 3 race events for a great cause) - with sponsorship and participation opportunities available - please visit... https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Louisville/UnwrittenTheClimb

2025 Un-Written.Org

ROARchestra Concerts - July 5th and July 19th

Roarchestra 2025

The Louisville Zoo and the Louisville Orchestra are joining forces once again to bring back the ROARchestra, with two special concerts set for this summer. After last year’s sold-out success, this cherished family-friendly event returns for its second consecutive year inviting audiences to experience a wild symphony under the stars on Saturdays, July 5 and 19.

The first concert on July 5 kicks off with Teddy Abrams conducting The Spirt of America featuring iconic works that reflect the heart and soul of American Culture. Music will include Copland’s vibrant El Salón México and Carlos Simon’s stirring The Block, a tribute to Black American life. Rounding out the evening will include John William’s themes for Jurassic Park and Star Wars.  All concluding with a thunderous finale of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.

Then on July 19, saddle up for a rousing western-themed musical journey, celebrating the spirt of the American frontier. Under the baton of beloved Roarchestra Maestro Bob Bernhardt, this high-energy program opens with John Williams’ Cowboys Overture, setting the stage for Copland’s iconic Dance Episodes from Rodeo, including the beloved Saturday Night Waltz and crowd-favorite Hoedown. Adding authentic country color, Suede Saddle brings vocal harmonies and traditional western instrumentation — including fiddle, accordion and upright bass — for a foot-stomping good time. The evening concludes with Rossini’s William Tell Overture.

“Last year’s return of ROARchestra was a smashing success, thanks to beautiful weather and powerful music,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “Teddy Abrams and the talented musicians created a magical night under the stars — truly the wildest concert in town! We’re thrilled to partner again with the Louisville Orchestra to carry this treasured tradition into a bold, exciting future.”

“ROARchestra brings together two of Louisville’s most iconic institutions to create something truly special for our community,” says Nathaniel Koch, Louisville Orchestra Interim Executive Director. “By expanding to two concerts this year and welcoming back our Principal Pops Conductor Bob Bernhardt, who led ROARchestra for many years alongside Teddy Abrams, we’re deepening this partnership and offering more families the chance to experience world-class performances in a fun, accessible setting.”

The Zoo grounds open at 7 p.m., allowing guests to explore the Zoo or get settled in the Oasis Field.

Tickets will go on sale, starting Thursday, May 29 at noon on the Zoo’s website at Louisvillezoo.org/roar.

Adults — $30**, Children 3-11 — $15, Children 2 and under — Free, Parking is included with admission.

**Adult Tickets will increase to $35 the week prior to each performance. 

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.


Sponsor 50 Trees Planted at a Local School

Help Your Community Beat the Heat ... One School at a Time!

Sponsor the planting of up to 50 trees at a local school and help transform campuses into vibrant, shaded learning environments.

TreesLouisville has partnered with over 100 schools across Jefferson County to create greener, healthier places for students to learn and play. Trees do more than provide oxygen ... they cool schoolyards, reduce flooding, improve mental health, support wildlife, filter air pollution, and foster a stronger sense of community.

Know a school that could use more shade? Sponsor a "green glow-up today!

We’ll take care of everything: working with the school, certified arborist-approved tree selection and placement, planting, and a 3-year maintenance plan.

Learn more by contacting morgan@treeslouisville.org

Invest Trees

Bats Baseball - Metro Council Community Nights

Metro Council Community Nights at Slugger Field!

Sign Up Now!

The Louisville Bats present "Metro Council Community Nights," an opportunity for all constituents of every Metro Council district, geared toward, but not exclusively for, residents who might otherwise not be able to afford to attend a Bats game. The offer is extended to both individuals and mentoring organizations, social service agencies, underprivileged kids’ groups, etc.
The two games this year are scheduled for

  • Tuesday, August 5th and
  • Tuesday, September 16th.

Ticket distribution will begin July 1st. Please be patient and allow time for tickets to be distributed (by July 31st).  

Vouchers include:
• free admission for a reserved seat at Louisville Slugger Field
• a voucher good for one free hot dog, and one free small soft drink
• Tuesdays also include $4 tacos available at the ballpark, including the two Gustavo’s Mexican Grill stands

Sign-Up Now!
• INDIVIDUALS/GROUPS of - 20 GUESTS: https://forms.office.com/r/ste86kb5GE
• ORGANIZATIONS/GROUPS of 20+ GUESTS: https://forms.office.com/r/vK8A9PE8BA


If you do not receive your tickets by July 31st, please email hibrahim@batsbaseball.com.


FridayFest at Highview Park - July 11th

2025 FridayFest

Mark your calendars for these fun-filled music nights in Highview Park!

Enter at 7120 Briscoe Lane to park.  6:00-10:00p.m.


New Bakery in Okolona!

GO Nothing Bundt

End of Summer Event at Fern Creek Park - Aug 9

FCCC 2025

Fern Creek Christian Church is planning an end-of-summer community event in Fern Creek Park on Saturday, August 9th, 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Come and enjoy some hot dogs, chips, ice cream, back to school giveaways, inflatables, face painting, kickball and more.  Besides the $1 ice cream truck, this is a free event, capped off with worship from The Rescued at 7pm.


Illegal Dumping Impound Blitz

Dumping 0

Last week, our Solid Waste Enforcement Team conducted an impound blitz to crack down on illegal dumping—and the results were significant. Using surveillance camera footage, the team identified and impounded nine vehicles involved in dumping debris at various locations across the city.

Four of those impounds were made possible thanks to residents who shared their own surveillance footage with our team. Your eyes on the ground make a real difference in keeping our city clean!

Each vehicle was traced back to its registered owner, who received:

  • $500 fine
  • Additional cleanup and impound fees
  • A one-on-one conversation with our team about proper disposal methods

Illegal dumping harms our neighborhoods, strains city resources and won’t be tolerated. This blitz is part of our ongoing commitment to keeping Louisville clean, safe and beautiful for everyone.

Not sure how to dispose of something? Use the Recycle Coach app to search for any item and find out how to properly recycle, dispose or drop it off. You can also visit our website for detailed guidance.

See something? Say something! You can report illegal dumping online through  Metro311 at Louisvilleky.gov/metro311. Your report helps us take action quickly and keep our neighborhoods clean. To submit photos or video of illegal dumping directly to our team, visit Louisvilleky.gov/IllegalDumping and fill out the reporting form

Want to help spread the word? The kNOw Waste Louisville Education Team is available for:

  • Presentations
  • Community classes
  • Event tabling opportunities

Let’s work together to keep Louisville clean and hold illegal dumpers accountable!

Dumping 1Dumping 2

Pop-Up Drop-Off Waste Disposal - July 19th at Fern Creek Elementary/High Schools

Pop-Up Drop-Off 2025

Pop-Up Drop-Offs are free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County. 

All events are 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on a Saturday. Please do not arrive early. Vehicles waiting cause traffic backups.  Click here for he calendar of locations across the city and more information on how to participate and what items can be dropped off.  Louisville Metro residents may use any event date/location, but the closest Pop-Up Drop-Off event is scheduled for July 19th at Fern Creek Elementary/High Schools, 8815 Ferndale Rd.

2025 PopUp DropOffs

Thank You, Metro Animal Services!

TY MAS

On June 21st, Councilman Bratcher co-sponsored a low-cost pet clinic by Louisville Metro Animal Services (MAS) at Fern Creek Park.  Special thanks to MAS for providing this service at various places and times throughout Louisville Metro.


Planning & Zoning Updates

7912 Cedar Creek Road (Case 25-ZONEPA-0067):  The Neighborhood Meeting was held on Monday, June 23rd at the Fern Creek Community Center.  This proposal seeks to change the zoning from R-4 to R-6 to allow 60 multi-family units on approximately 4.03 acres, which would be an expansion of the Revenant at Cedar Creek apartments located at 8006 Cedar Creek Road. The applicant is proposing this new addition to the apartment complex to have two 3-story apartment buildings and 116 parking spaces.  For more information about the nature of this proposal, next steps in the process, and how to participate/comment for the public record, contact Case Manager Mark Pinto (mark.pinto@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-5170).  All comments for the public record must be submitted prior to the Planning Commission meeting.

8803, 8805 and 8807 Old Bardstown Road (Case 24-ZONE-0105) - Conclusion:  This proposed zoning change with development plan was approved by the Planning Commission on Thursday, April 10th.  This is a proposal for use of land located between Old Bardstown Road and Bardstown Road, just north of Fairmount Road.  It is rezoned to C-1 for a Goodwill store along Fairmount Road.  The land to the north of the Goodwill is rezoned to OR-1 for three buildings proposed to be for various medical uses that are yet to be determined. 

Binding Elements (BEs) were added to limit the impact of the zoning change.  A majority of the other C-1 potential uses were bound out, including various automotive uses, gambling and liquor establishments, retail stores and restaurants, pawn shops and the like.  Additionally, any future alternative buildings have limits on the number of stories and height. This proposal, with the Binding Elements added, passed Metro Council on Thursday, June 26th.  

6422 & 6808 Billtown Road (Case 24-ZONE-0137) - Conclusion: This proposed zoning change with development plan was approved by the Planning Commission on Thursday, April 24th.  This is a proposal for use of land near Billtown Road and I-265 for a change in zoning from R-4 to C-1 and R-6.  Part of the C-1 portion will have a Wawa's gas station and related services.  Other parts of the C-1 area are not yet fully defined, but will likely have a restaurant and a coffee shop or the like.  The R-6 area will be approximately 199 apartments in 3-story structures with sufficient green space to stay within the density limit of R-6.  Road connection (Veterans Drive connecting with Gellhaus Lane) is also part of the proposal, as well as expansion of Billtown Road in that area. 

Binding Elements (BEs) were added to limit the impact of the zoning change.  Some other C-1 potential uses were bound out, including gambling and liquor establishments, pawn shops and the like.  Additionally, any future alternative buildings have limits on the number of stories and height. This proposal, with the Binding Elements added, passed Metro Council on Thursday, June 26th.   

8000 Broad Run Road (Case 24-ZONE-0112) is a proposed change in zoning from R-R & R-4 to Planned Residential Development (PRD) with a Floyds Fork Special Zoning Overlay District Review with associated waiver(s) and Detailed District Development Plan/Major Preliminary Subdivision Plan with binding elements.  The Project Name is The Reserves at Parklands, Phase II.  This proposal on roughly 107 acres seeks 370 buildable, single-family residential lots with a portion of the site to remain open space in recognition of some landscape challenges.  According to the staff report, "the site has several environmental constraints including steep slopes and karst features."  On May 15th, this proposal was passed on a 4-3 vote in the Planning Commission.  This completes the public record for this case.  It will now move forward for Metro Council review and action in the following 30-90 days.  For more information about the nature of this proposal, contact Case Manager Amy Brooks (amy.brooks@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-8215).  

8000 Broad Run Road (Case 24-RSUB-0005) is a review for a Revised Major Subdivision.  Relative to Case 24-ZONE-0112 above, here is the description we received from the case manager:  "The cases are on properties adjacent to each other but will be heard separately at Planning Commission. (Case 24-RSUB-0005) is an appeal of a staff approval of the revised major subdivision for The Reserves at the Parklands Phase I, which was originally approved in 2022. The applicant submitted a revised major subdivision application last year to slightly reconfigure some buildings in the townhome section (still meets Land Development Code requirements), change a curve on a road to a cul-de-sac (approved by Transportation Planning), and enlarge the detention basin to accommodate additional future flow (approved by MSD)."  On May 15th, this revision was approved by the Planning Commission.  For more information about the nature of this revision, contact Case Manager Zach Schwager (zach.schwager@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-8938). 

7708 Cedar Creek Road (Case 25-CUPPA-0060)  A Conditional Use Permit application for Private Institutional Use (Religious Facility) at the address above was filed.  In accordance with the procedures of Louisville Metro Office of Planning, a neighborhood meeting occurred on May 20th to discuss this proposal. The applicant now has 90 days to pursue the “Formal Conditional Use Permit” application.

Should the applicant elect to pursue the project they will need to submit a site plan + purposed elevations. The Office of Planning will review the application, site plan, and purposed elevations to check for compliance with the Land Development Code.  Once the plan has addressed any outstanding agency comments and/or concerns they will be docketed for the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BOZA) where a public hearing will be held. The Board would vote to approve or deny the conditional use permit and, if approved, the applicant can begin requesting building permits.

For more information about the nature of this proposal and how to participate in the public record prior to or at the BOZA meeting, contact Case Manager Jude Mattingly (jude.mattingly@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-6230).  All comments for the public record must be submitted prior to the BOZA meeting.

9300 Hayes Avenue - A neighborhood meeting was held on May 21st to present to neighbors in attendance this Development Potential Transfer Subdivision Plan.  The following description is based on the notice provided about this neighborhood meeting:  The proposal is for an 88-lot single-family subdivision within R-4 zoning.  Access to the site will be from the existing stubs on the north and south property lines, thereby connecting Idlewood Lane and Hines Mill Way.  There will also be a connection on the east property line, directly across Hofelich Lane, for the 11 proposed lots in that area.  The proposed street will also stub into the properties to the north and south.  The average lot size will be 7,282 sf.  Open space totals 7.85 acres.  After the neighborhood meeting, a preliminary subdivision application will be filed with the Office of Planning for review.  A case number and case manager will then be assigned.

9006 Old Bardstown Road (Case 25-ZONEPA-0052) - A neighborhood meeting was held on May 22nd to present neighbors with this zone change plan (from R-4 to PRD) to allow a 36-unit attached townhome community in this location.  According to the notice of this meeting:  Access to the site will be from Bardstown Woods Blvd, which will be directly across from the existing Bardstown Woods Court.  There will be no direct access to Old Bardstown Road.  Each lot will range from 2358 sf to 4159 sf.  Open space totals 1.76 acres.  For more information about the nature of this proposal, next steps in the process, and how to participate/comment for the public record, contact Case Manager Mark Pinto (mark.pinto@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-5170).  All comments for the public record must be submitted prior to the Planning Commission meeting.

9911 & 10019 Wingfield Road (Case 25-ZONEPA-0005) had the neighborhood meeting on February 25th at the Fern Creek Community Center. This proposal is the intended extension of commercial use of Southpointe Blvd up against I-265, including a Hy-Vee store and other retail entities.  For more information about the nature of this proposal, next steps in the process, and how to participate/comment for the public record, contact Case Manager Molly Clark (molly.clark@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-8656).  All comments for the public record must be submitted prior to the Planning Commission meeting.

11380 Seatonville Road (Case 24-ZONE-0127) now has a formal application submitted.  There are some issues to be addressed before it is scheduled for a public hearing.  Once planning staff members consider those issues to be sufficiently addressed, the proposal will next be scheduled for a review by the Land Development & Transportation Committee (which only focuses on technical details of the plan to make sure those are ready for the Planning Commission to do its overall review).  A petition for a night hearing has been successful, so when the Planning Commission hearing is scheduled, it will be in the evening at the Fern Creek Christian Church at 9419 Seatonville Road.  For more information about the nature of this proposal and how to participate/comment for the public record, contact Case Manager Molly Clark (molly.clark@louisvilleky.gov or 502-574-8656).  All comments for the public record must be submitted prior to the Planning Commission meeting.

REMINDER: One beneficial and convenient way for you to share your thoughts on a case (to be part of the public record) is to use this form.


ZONING MATTERS Conversation at Libraries

Zoning Matters 2025

Fern Creek Chamber Golf Scramble

2025 FCGS

Prevent Heat Illness at Work

Prevent Heat Illness At Work

Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat-Related Illnesses

Network of Assistance across Louisville Metro

Association of Community Ministries 1

Do you know people who need assistance (whether in District 22 or in other parts of Louisville Metro)? 

Click here for information on the Association of Community Ministries. 

On this site, click on "Find Your Ministry" to explore the local community help available for any Jefferson County address.


For further information about District 22...

For further information about District 22

or to contact Councilman Kevin Bratcher or Legislative Assistant Jon Bingham,

please visit:

https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council-district-22


Metro Animal Services

LMAS 1Metro Animal Services

Join a Board or Commission

Apply to Serve

There are approximately 100 boards and commissions with many areas of interest, including business and economic development, land planning, parks and recreation, public health and public safety.

If you are interested in volunteering for one of Louisville Metro Government's Boards and Commissions, now is the time to start. By being a part of a board or commission, you will offer your time and your talents to improve the quality of life in our community.

To learn more please visit Boards and Commissions.


Crime Maps

 

Always Remember to

Lock Your Car and

Remove All Valuables.

It's the Easiest Way to

Prevent Crime.

Crime Maps logo

Click Here to view LMPD's interactive crime mapping tool.   

 If you see crime occurring, please contact the Louisville Metro Police Department.

Call 911 for emergencies.  Call 502-574-7111 for non-emergency related assistance.

Call 574-LMPD to report crime tips.


If You Suspect a Natural Gas Leak...

Gas Leak

Call 811 Before You Dig!

811

Maker Lab at South Central Regional Library

Maker Lab Summer Hours 2025