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Louisville Metro Government operates on an annual budget that unlike the Federal Government, must be balanced and must be passed prior to the start of the new Fiscal Year (July 1st). On April 23rd Mayor Greenberg delivered his fourth budget proposal to the members of the Louisville Metro Council, outlining approximately $1.35 billion in spending ($1.15 billion for the Operating Budget and $197 million for the Capital budget). The mayor’s budget fully funds the police department, fully funds our goals for paving, continues our efforts to address maintenance needs within our parks and completes the needed funding for a number of large capital projects. The budget appears to be a bit tighter than in years past but manages to fund essential services at adequate levels without a request for increased fees or taxes.
A Tighter Budget Outlook
The correct decision to live within our means and refrain from requesting new or additional tax revenue will create a few budgeting challenges as we review the mayor’s proposal. Recent changes in funding levels from senior nutrition and other grants from federal programs have caused Metro to either take on some of those costs or scale back some of our programs. Those changes along with the ending of certain COVID and other Federal programs (as expected) will lead to changes that Metro is ready to address. Rather than relying on these Federal funds for personnel, as other organizations have, we worked hard to reduce our reliance on Federal program funding for personnel so that when their funding runs out, we are not put in a weaker financial position.
In addition to Federal changes, Metro is also posed with having to absorb approximately $13 in additional costs associated with providing health benefits for our employees and increases in union contracts and non-union salary and wages These increases are also being addressed without having to seek new funding sources. The mayor is projecting a 3.6% increase in general fund revenue and bonding 26% of the proposed capital projects as well as reducing operating, programmatic and contractual services in 25 Metro Departments
Highlights from the Mayor’s FY27 Budget Proposal:
- $30 million for continued progress in addressing the Paving and Road repair needs of our Community.
- $3.5 million to support Thrive By 5 Louisville and make childcare and early learning more affordable and accessible.
- $5 million for the construction of a training track at the planned First Responders Training Facility in Southwest Jefferson County. Funding matches appropriation from Kentucky General Assembly to support this much needed resource for police, fire, EMS and other regional first responders.
- $3 million for Dare to Care’s new Hunger Relief Center to be matched with $5 million in funding provided by the General Assembly during this year’s budget process.
- $500,000 to continue support for the senior nutrition program after a drop in federal funding.
- $1 million for Home of the Innocents to expand the Kosair for Kids Complex Care Center.
- $5 million to help with construction costs for the Kentucky Trails Capital Campaign and to match an equal contribution from the Kentucky General Assembly.
- $4.68 million to complete funding for Metro Parks centralized Maintenance and Operations Facility and the Radio Shop Expansion both to be located at the current Newburg Radio Shop site . This will aid in making Metro Parks more efficient and help to remove certain divisions from a variety of parks throughout the community, freeing up space and removing unsightly construction materials and equipment.
- $275,000 for Family Health Center clinics at JCPS schools and other locations around Louisville.
- $1.65 million for local community ministries.
- $4.5 million to complete needed funding for new pool facility at Sun Valley Park. Work to start following end of 2026 swimming season.
- $5 million for Jefferson Memorial Forest Capital Improvements. Funding will go towards continued development of walking trails, a suspension bridge and other amenities at JMF.
- $1 million for match for next phase of infrastructure improvements using Metro System Development Charge.
- $2 million for identified bridge and retaining wall repairs.
- Hiring of additional library staff to support the opening of the new Fern Creek Library
- $450,000 for Sylvania Park capital improvements
- $50,000 for a new Southwest Community Center. Funding will combine with FY26 allocation already in use for planning and design.
- $20+ million to help more people and families find affordable housing through support of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, down payment assistance, existing property repair and renovation, small developer projects, and more.
- $1.5 million to tear down Dosker Manor and make way for new affordable housing.
- $500,000 to support the Home for Good initiative to create more permanent supportive housing for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness.
Next Steps
We will receive the details of the mayor’s proposal over the next week. During this time we will be looking through the hundreds of pages presented to get a better grasp of the details of the Mayor’s budget. The first FY27 Budget hearing is planned for May 7th with approximately 25 hearings planned over the course of May and early June.
During those meetings we will have the opportunity to delve deeper into the operations of the major departments as well as the necessity and reasoning behind each proposed capital project. The Metro Council has a Budget Link located on our main webpage. This page contains the Capital, Operating, Detail as well as hearing schedule and public comment forms for this budget cycle. The Metro Council expects to have the final vote on the FY27 Budget on Thursday, June 25th at the regularly scheduled meeting of the Metro Council.
Thank you again for allowing me the opportunity to serve as your member of the Louisville Metro Council. Please feel free to reach out to me via phone at 574-1120 or e-mail at stuart.benson@louisivlleky.gov should you have any questions or ideas related to local government, and please have a happy and safe Derby Week!
Sincerely,
Stuart Benson
To review the proposed budget, budget schedule or fill out the budget survey please visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council/fy26-27-proposed-budget-information
Louisville Metro Government’s Office of Planning is warning residents and applicants about fraudulent emails claiming to be from Metro Government that request payment for “application approval fees.” These emails are not legitimate and should be ignored.
Louisville Metro Government will not request payment by email, wire transfer, or third-party payment platforms. All application fees are due at the time of submittal through official channels only. Legitimate application-related communications come directly from Louisville Metro staff by phone or from a @louisvilleky.gov email address.
Example of Scam Email (Not legitimate)
Subject: Invoice for Application Approval Fee – Immediate Action Required From: PLANNING COMMISSION LOUISVILLE-JEFFERSON COUNTY KENTUCKY <planning.dept.louisville-jeffersoncounty.Kentucky@usa.com>
Dear (name), I am writing to inform you that the application you submitted for (application type) has been reviewed by our staff.
To complete the process and finalize the approval of your application, we kindly ask that you settle the attached invoice for the application approval fee. Please follow the steps below:
Next Steps:
•
Reply to this email to request settlement advice or further instructions regarding the payment.
•
Settle the issued wire instructions by following the payment details provided in the attached invoice.
•
Return the wire transfer receipt to this email for payment confirmation.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Gilliland Rd. will be closed between U.S. 60 (Shelbyville Rd.) and Eastwood Cut Off Rd. on Saturday, April 18 as part of an ongoing U.S. 60 widening and improvement project. The closure is expected to last through June 30. The road closure is necessary for the $3 million project, which will improve traffic flow and reduce congestion along part of Shelbyville Rd. in Louisville, and enhance mobility for pedestrians and bicyclists. Motorists should obey work zone traffic restrictions, follow any signed detours, and plan ahead when traveling. For more on the project, visit https://bit.ly/us60wideningimprovementproject
 These additions mark the 65th and 66th installations in Kentucky and the 434th and 435th nationwide
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Salvador Melendez, 502-887-0810, smelendez@amfems.org
Louisville, KY. (April 24, 2026)—Anchorage Middletown Fire & EMS (AMFEMS), Safe Haven Baby Boxes (SHBB), supporting community partners and other members of the community, held blessing ceremonies and officially unveiled two new Safe Haven Baby Boxes, expanding safe, legal, and anonymous options for infant surrender for parents in crisis.
“These Safe Haven Baby Boxes extend our mission to protect life by offering a safe, secure, and anonymous option for anyone facing an incredibly difficult decision. With overwhelming community support, we are honored to place two boxes into service on the same day; proof that compassion and action can come together to save lives,” said Chief Walsh. “My hope is that it’s never needed, but if it is, it provides an anonymous, welcoming, no-judgment way to safely surrender a baby and save a life.”
“Today I am honored to participate in this blessing along with people who have dedicated their lives saving lives,” said District 27 State Representative Nancy Tate, who is also a representative of Safe Haven Baby Boxes. “I thank Monica Kelsey, along with her staff at SHBB, the Kentucky General Assembly, the donors, and the members Anchorage Middletown Fire & EMS for their support.”
The latest additions took place earlier today at AMFEMS Station 39 – 4700 Murphy Lane and AMFEMS Headquarters—Station 31 located at 108 Urton Lane. Each secured box is climate-controlled and equipped with sensors that activate a silent alarm to on-duty staff when the door opens, ensuring an immediate response.
The installations mark the 434th and 435th Safe Haven Baby Boxes in the United States and the 65th and 66th in Kentucky.
In Kentucky, safe haven laws allow an unharmed infant to be surrendered at designated locations. Safe Haven Baby Boxes provide an additional, anonymous option at participating fire stations, with trained personnel alerted immediately when a baby is placed inside.
AMFEMS and Safe Haven Baby Boxes would like to thank the AMFEMS community, The Lesley & Rhyan Prather Foundation, Fern Creek Christian Church, Paul Davis Restoration, Shirley’s Way, Koetter Construction and Fire Protection Services for their support and dedication in bringing these resources to the community.
Click here to see how Safe Haven Baby Boxes work.
About AMFEMS: Anchorage Middletown Fire & EMS serves nearly 100 square miles across East Louisville and parts of Oldham and Shelby counties, providing integrated fire and emergency medical services with a commitment to professionalism, integrity, and community service.
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 Fan Fair 2025 was an overwhelming success. More than 700 fans were donated to seniors and disabled citizens in need.
I am excited to announce that the 11th Annual Fan Fair will be held on Saturday, June 6th from 9am-11am at the Edison Center (701 W. Ormsby Ave). We are still seeking sponsors for Fan Fair 2026.
Contact Alli at allison.woosley@louisvilleky.gov or 502.574.5092 for more information about this event and sponsorship
 Saturday, April 25th, 8 am - 2 pm.
Directions
26-MPLAT-0028 Hunters Hollow - Lots 36 & 37 4903 saddle bend 20 03/16/2026 03/16/2026 Sydney Fawcett
A minor subdivision to shift the property line between 2 lots on 0.37 acres in the R-4 zoning district.
26-MPLAT-0029 Kelly Minor Plat 12302 TAYLORSVILLE RD 40299 20 03/16/2026 03/16/2026 Tyler Pobiedzinski
Minor plat to shift property lines & to dedicate right of way.
26-RP-0008 Echo Trail, Section 2 6804 ECHO TRL 20 04/22/2026 04/22/2026 Mollie Share
A record plat for 57 lots on 15.48 acres in the Neighborhood form district
26-MPLAT-0051 11611 Chenoweth Hills Pl minor plat
11611 Chenoweth Hills PL 20 04/27/2026 04/27/2026 Abby Bills
Shift property line
26-EXTENSION-0006 Fairview Avenue Townhomes 10503 FAIRVIEW AVE 20 04/22/2026 04/23/2026 Tyler Pobiedzinski
Rezoning from R-4 to R-5A to allow townhomes
26-ZONE-0048 Plantside Innovation Park 13300 REHL RD 20 04/27/2026 04/27/2026 Zack Jones
Change in zoning for two parcels on Rehl Road - 13208 and 13300 from R-4 and PEC to PEC and change in form district from suburban workplace and campus to suburban workplace
All events are 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on a Saturday. Please do not arrive early. Vehicles waiting cause traffic backups.
May 16 - Shawnee Park, 4501 W Broadway
June 13 - Doss High School (tentative), 7601 St. Andrews Church Rd
July 18 - Metro Fleet Services, 3515 Newburg Rd
August 15 - Fern Creek Elementary and High School, enter at 8815 Ferndale Rd
September 19 - Sun Valley Park and Ashby Lane Baptist Church, 10401 Lower River Rd/6617 Ashby Ln
October 17 - Metro Fleet Services, 3515 Newburg Rd
November 21 - UofL Shelby Campus, 440 N Whittington Pkwy
For more details about what is and isn't accepted please visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/public-works/pop-drop-waste-disposal-events
The next quarterly community meeting is scheduled for June 24, 2026, at the Anchorage-Middletown Fire Station (9514 Featherbell Blvd), also from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
These meetings are part of LMPD's continued effort to strengthen partnerships, provide updates on public safety initiatives, and collaborate with residents to address concerns within the Eighth Division.
Have a question about zoning in your neighborhood? Wondering how developments get approved? 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. Planning impacts how our neighborhoods grow, what the future of Louisville looks like, and where we live. The goal of these conversations is simple: to make the planning process clearer and easier to understand. It all kicks off March 3rd at the Shively-Newman Library. Join us!
The Stone Lakes community yard sale will be held June 13th, 2026 from 8AM - 4PM
Directions to Stone Lakes: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PoF8xAmVNk9z7NGr7
Two ramps temporarily closing Monday, May 4 for bridge demolition
Louisville, KY (May 3, 2026) – Overnight ramp and lane closures are expected this week in Louisville. Contract crews will continue preparations in advance of the I-65 closure this summer as part of the I-65 Central Corridor project.
Drivers can expect the following closures:
Monday, May 4 | 12 a.m. – 6 a.m.
- Ramp closure from 1st Street (near the Chestnut Street intersection) to southbound I-65 (milepoint 135.3)
- Lane closures overnight on southbound I‑65 between St. Catherine Street (Exit 135 | milepoint 135.2) and Arthur Street (Exit 134 | milepoint 134.4)
Monday, May 4 through Wednesday, May 6 | 9 p.m. – 6 a.m. each night
- Ramp closure from 1st Street (near the Chestnut Street intersection) to southbound I-65 (milepoint 135.3)
- Lane closures overnight on southbound I‑65 between St. Catherine Street (Exit 135 | milepoint 135.2) and Arthur Street (Exit 134 | milepoint 134.4)
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Temporary Ramp Closures to Begin May 4 Two ramps on southbound I-65 are anticipated to close early on Monday, May 4 to prepare for work to replace the I-65 bridge over Kentucky and Brook streets as part of the I-65 Central Corridor project.
The off-ramp from southbound I-65 to St. Catherine Street (Exit 135) and the on-ramp from 1st Street (near the Jacob Street intersection) to southbound I-65 will close early on Monday, May 4.
The 1st Street on-ramp is expected to reopen by August 1, and the St. Catherine off-ramp is expected to reopen late this year.
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On-ramps to southbound I-65 from 1st Street at Chestnut Street and 1st Street between Liberty Street and Muhammad Ali Boulevard will remain open until the I-65 closure begins June 1 and provide access to I-65.
What to Expect This Summer
Five miles of I-65 are scheduled to close between the Watterson Expressway (I-264) and downtown Louisville (Jefferson Street) early on Monday, June 1. It’s expected to reopen to traffic on Saturday, Aug. 1.
During the closure, through traffic will be detoured to I-264 (Georgia Davis Powers Expressway) on the west side of Louisville. The signed detour route is the shortest distance, utilizes roadways with the most available capacity, and creates the least traffic impacts.
With the closure, crews are able to address three bridges in need of immediate improvements as quickly as possible, including replacing I-65 bridges over Kentucky Street/Brook Street, Hill Street/CSX Railroad/Burnett Avenue, and Bradley Avenue near the fairgrounds.
Staying Informed
Project information and updates can be found at I65CentralCorridor.com. While on the site, users can sign up to have project and traffic updates delivered to their inboxes or by text to their phones.
Project updates are shared on KYTC District 5 (D5) Facebook and X pages.
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