Public Meetings - Louisville, Kentucky

The Labor and Economic Development Committee met on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 3:00 PM in Council Chambers with a quorum of six members present. The meeting lasted approximately five minutes and covered two legislative items: approval of local incentives for PACCAR, Inc. and a proposed ordinance requiring Metro Council approval of collective bargaining agreement changes. Discussion Items - R-025-23 (PACCAR Incentives): Ben Moore, Director of Economic Development, presented the resolution to finalize local incentives for PACCAR, Inc., a leader in the semi-truck industry. The company had completed a state-of-the-art distribution and light manufacturing facility at 6650 Randy Coe Lane in Riverport Phase 5 (Council District 14), invested $52 million, and hired 80 full-time employees—exceeding the initial job target of 46. The facility serves as a showcase center for cutaway engines and models, leveraging Louisville's UPS logistics for overnight parts delivery. Committee Members expressed support, with Councilman Batshon confirming parts are sourced from suppliers like Dynacraft. A motion by Councilman Engel, seconded by Councilman Batshon, carried by voice vote, recommending approval. - O-052-23 (Collective Bargaining Agreements): This ordinance, sponsored by Vice Chair Piagentini (absent), would amend LMCO Chapter 35 to require Metro Council approval of certain changes to collective bargaining agreements and filing of supplemental agreements. The item was held in committee at the sponsor's request for further consideration. Key Outcomes - R-025-23 was recommended for approval by a unanimous voice vote and sent to the Consent Calendar for the full Metro Council meeting on April 13, 2023. - O-052-23 was held in committee, with no action taken. Adjournment Chair Mulvihill adjourned the meeting at 3:08 PM without objection.

The Louisville Metro Planning and Zoning Committee met on March 21, 2023, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers, adjourning at 2:23 PM. The committee considered seven pending zoning and development plan ordinances, held one item, and received a presentation on future discussion topics. Notable actions included a rare motion to forward a zoning case without recommendation and a failed amendment to deny a revised development plan. Consent Calendar - None. All items were discussed individually. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was heard during the committee meeting; all public comments were previously submitted to the Planning Commission record. Discussion Items - O-022-23 (1920 & 1922 Herr Lane, 8.11 acres): Request to rezone from R4 to R5A for a 72-unit townhome project. The property straddles Louisville Metro and Graymoor-Devondale, with the majority in Graymoor-Devondale. Council Member Paula McCraney (D-7) noted that the Graymoor-Devondale council was meeting that evening and requested deferral. Due to time constraints (next committee not until April 18, after the April 13 council meeting), the committee voted 8-0 (with one present) to forward the ordinance to Metro Council without a committee recommendation, allowing the council to act after Graymoor-Devondale’s decision. This is the second such occurrence in 20 years according to Chair Flood. - O-031-23 (768, 810, 850 Barret Ave & 1235 E Breckinridge St, 9.67 acres): Rezone from OR2, C2, R6 to Planned Development District (PDD) for mixed-use development at the former Urban Government Center. Council Member Phillip Baker (D-6) spoke in strong support, citing due diligence on traffic studies, affordable housing spread throughout the site, community benefits agreement, and a unanimous 7-0 Planning Commission recommendation. The committee voted 7-0 (with one present) to recommend approval. - O-032-23 (814 Vine St, 2.1014 acres): Planned Development Option and Pattern Book for 20 single-family lots (parking lot redevelopment). Related to O-031-23. Council Member Baker again supported. Committee voted 7-0 (with one present) to recommend approval. - O-037-23 (7717 & 7721 St. Andrews Church Road, 1.97 acres, as amended): Previously tabled; motion to untable passed 6-0 (with one present, one absent). Discussion centered on a proposed Dollar General store and neighborhood concerns about private road access (Cardinal Oaks Drive) and a bridge. County Attorney Travis Fiechter clarified ownership of Cardinal Oaks Drive as a common driveway owned by condo owners, with no obligation to grant access. Committee voted 6-0 (with one present) to recommend approval. - O-046-23 (223 & 225 S Spring St, 0.2122 acres): Rezone from R6/C1 to C1 for expansion of a bakery/cafe and addition of a short-term rental unit in Irish Hill. Council Member Andrew Owen (D-9) spoke in favor, calling it an example of a small local business to support. Committee voted 7-0 to recommend approval. - O-047-23 (3500 Lees Lane, 95.7 acres): Zoning and form district change; held in committee without discussion. - O-013-23 (11905 Dixie Highway, 2.19 acres): Revised Detailed District Development Plan for a trailer sales and storage business. A contentious item. Council Member Cindi Fowler (D-14) and County Attorney Travis Fiechter introduced a proposed amendment by substitution to deny the plan, citing ongoing violations of binding elements (trailers over 16 feet) and a history of non-compliance. The committee debated whether to overturn the Planning Commission’s unanimous 7-0 approval. The amendment failed 2-5 (Ruhe, Flood yes; Baker, Chappell, Reed, Engel, Batshon no). The original motion to recommend approval then passed 4-3 (Baker, Reed, Engel, Batshon yes; Chappell, Ruhe, Flood no; Reno-Weber present). Fowler warned that if approved, a zoning officer would cite the developer the next day for non-compliance. - R-009-23 (Resolution requesting Planning Commission review of LDC regulations for revised development plans): Held in committee. - Special Discussion (ID 23-0160): Emily Liu, Director of Planning and Design Services, announced that future committee discussions will cover the Board of Zoning Adjustment and zoning enforcement. Key Outcomes - O-022-23: Forwarded to Metro Council without recommendation (8-0). - O-031-23: Recommended for approval (7-0). - O-032-23: Recommended for approval (7-0). - O-037-23: Untabled and recommended for approval (6-0). - O-046-23: Recommended for approval (7-0). - O-047-23: Held in committee. - O-013-23: Amendment to deny failed (2-5); original ordinance recommended for approval (4-3). - R-009-23: Held in committee. - All items sent to Old Business will be heard before the full Metro Council on April 13, 2023.

The Public Safety Committee met to consider a resolution for a $200,000 contract with Cure Violence Global and to receive a presentation on the Department of Justice (DOJ) findings report regarding the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD). Consent Calendar - R-023-23: Resolution approving a $200,000 noncompetitively negotiated professional service contract with Cure Violence Global for training and technical assistance to alleviate violence. Paul Callanan, Office of Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods, explained it is a one-year continuation of a contract for violence intervention program support, including technical assistance, data collection, and evaluation. The motion by Committee Member Flood, seconded by Committee Member Seum, carried by voice vote, and the resolution was sent to the consent calendar for the April 13, 2023 Metro Council meeting. Discussion Items - Department of Justice Findings (ID 23-0367): David Kaplan, Chief of Staff and General Counsel to Mayor Craig Greenberg, presented a summary of the DOJ’s 86-page report issued March 8, 2023. The investigation covered the years 2016 to 2021 and found probable cause that LMPD engages in a pattern or practice of: - Excessive force (e.g., use of less-lethal force without active resistance, neck restraints, failure to de-escalate) - Unconstitutional searches (invalid warrants, lack of knocking and announcing, warrantless searches) - Discriminatory policing (racial disparities: Black drivers stopped at 1.5 times the rate of white drivers, searched at 2.6 times more; 49% greater likelihood of a stop controlling for behavior) - Unlawful protest response (retaliation against speech, mass arrests without probable cause) - Americans with Disabilities Act violations (failure to accommodate behavioral health disabilities) - Deficiencies in supervision, accountability, and the civilian complaint process (only 43 civilian complaints filed in 2020, restrictive filing procedures) - DOJ issued 36 recommendations (effective 35 after one duplicate), including enhanced use-of-force policies, improved warrant oversight, expanded crisis intervention teams, civilian complaint reform, and police facility/wellness improvements. - Kaplan stated the mayor has entered an agreement in principle with DOJ to negotiate a consent decree. DOJ will hold community meetings the week of April 10. Kaplan noted that the Metro Council can take action on some recommendations, such as ordinances regarding protest permits and civilian complaint acceptance. - Committee members raised questions and concerns: - Vice Chair Reed questioned the lack of specific metrics and measurable benchmarks in the report. - Council Member Hudson expressed concern that DOJ is withholding underlying data, making it difficult to understand and solve problems. - Council Member Rashad asked about the role of the interim police chief and whether the collective bargaining agreement could be used to implement reforms. He also highlighted socioeconomic disparities noted in the report and stressed the need to address root causes. - Council Member Hawkins demanded accountability, asking whether officers involved in misconduct are still employed and emphasizing the need for transparency. - Council Member Baker questioned spending ARP funds on police headquarters and wellness center before DOJ negotiations are complete, urging community engagement in funding decisions. - Council Member Seum sought clarification on how criminal findings would be referred, though Kaplan noted the DOJ investigation is civil. - Chair Ackerson stated he views the consent decree and independent monitor as positive steps and expects the administration to have concrete answers in four to five months. Key Outcomes - R-023-23 was recommended for approval and placed on the consent calendar for the April 13, 2023 Metro Council meeting. - The DOJ findings presentation was for informational purposes; no vote was taken. - Chair Ackerson encouraged council members to work on ordinance changes related to protest permits and civilian complaints. - The meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m.

The Public Works Committee of the Louisville Metro Council met on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. Chair Donna Purvis called the meeting to order at 4:02 PM, and a quorum was established with seven members present (Vice Chair Engel excused). The meeting adjourned at 4:30 PM. The committee received the first annual Vision Zero Louisville report and advanced two property-related resolutions to the full council's consent calendar. Vision Zero Louisville 2022 Annual Report Claire Yates, Transportation Planner and Vision Zero Louisville Program Manager, presented the program's first annual report, required by the ordinance passed in summer 2022. Key points: - Vision Zero aims to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2050, excluding interstates and private property. - In 2022, traffic fatalities spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic and remain elevated even as vehicle miles traveled returned to pre‑pandemic levels. - Vulnerable road users (motorcyclists, pedestrians, bicyclists) account for a small share of crashes but a large share of fatalities and serious injuries. - The state owns about 12% of Louisville's surface street network, yet over two‑thirds of all traffic fatalities and serious injuries occur on state‑owned roads. - Arterial roadways make up roughly 13% of the street network but account for over 75% of traffic fatalities and serious injuries on surface streets. - A $21 million federal Safe Streets and Roads for All grant (with local and state matches) will fund safety improvements on 10 corridors identified in the Vision Zero Safety Report. - Automated enforcement (speed safety cameras and red light cameras) is currently illegal in Kentucky, but legislation has been introduced; the presenter noted limited progress. - The program is collaborating with the Complete Streets Coalition and holds monthly virtual task force meetings (Fridays, 1–2 p.m., sign‑up via visionzerlouisville.org). - Short‑term goals include funding in the mayor's recommended budget, developing a high‑injury network, and conducting a speed limit audit. Council members discussed roadway design, the role of automated enforcement, and opportunities for council participation. Pending Legislation R-026-23 – Surplus Property Transfer at 10122 Whipps Mill Road This resolution declared a small 18‑foot remnant parcel (Parcel ID 014300450024) as surplus and authorized its transfer to an adjacent property owner. Jeff Brown, Acting Director of Public Works and Assets, explained the parcel was a leftover from the Hearstbourne Parkway railroad overpass project; the owner had expressed interest. Councilman Ackerson expressed general concerns about undervaluing city property but supported this transaction because the land cannot be built upon due to the parkway encroachment zone, making the agreed price (approximately 27 cents on the dollar) reasonable given the diminished value. The committee voted by voice vote to recommend approval, sending the resolution to the consent calendar. R-030-23 – River Road Widening – Acceptance and Dedication of Parcels This resolution approved accepting 18 parcels from the Commonwealth of Kentucky and dedicating 27 parcels on the north side of River Road for the widening project from Zorn Avenue to Edith Avenue (under KRS Chapter 178.080). Jeff Brown stated that these parcels, previously under state ownership, are needed to complete right‑of‑way for construction. The committee voted by voice vote to recommend approval, sending the resolution to the consent calendar. Key Outcomes - Both R-026-23 and R-030-23 were recommended for approval and placed on the consent calendar for consideration by the full Metro Council at its meeting on April 13, 2023. - No other business was conducted; the meeting adjourned at 4:30 PM.

The Louisville Metro Council met on Thursday, March 16, 2023, at 6:00 PM (actually gaveled in at 6:49 PM and adjourned at 8:33 PM) for a regular meeting that included the appointment of a new District 8 Council Member after five rounds of voting, addresses from the public on police accountability and public safety, passage of a consent calendar, and action on several old business items including a resolution calling for the destruction of confiscated firearms and multiple zoning ordinances. Appointment of District 8 Council Member - After interviewing 18 candidates on March 13, the Council held five rounds of roll‑call voting. The first candidate to reach 13 votes would be appointed. - In the fifth round, Ben Reno‑Weber received 14 votes and was appointed. The oath of office was administered. The Council recessed from 7:15 PM to 7:22 PM to allow the new member to log in. Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Easley criticized the Louisville Metro Affordable Housing Trust for poor communication and questioned oversight of home‑improvement programs. - Wilson Conkwright (Tunerville Trolley Neighborhood Association) described a homeless encampment on government property behind his home where a murder occurred after six months of reporting; he proposed brighter alley lighting, commercial rezoning, and weapons searches at encampments. - Hannah Drake read from the DOJ report on LMPD, alleging excessive force, discriminatory policing, and a pattern of misconduct; she asked the Council to prioritize community needs over police budgets. - Jawanna Godsei (mother of Antonia Lucas, 2020 homicide victim) urged the Council to support the destruction of confiscated firearms to prevent them from being used again. - Alissa Vance (divinity student, youth minister) called on the Council not to allocate more money to the police budget, especially from the American Rescue Plan, and to fund youth‑focused spaces in the West End (open gym, chill space, maker space, roller rink). - Nancy Cavalcante (District 26 resident) requested an update on Resolution 187‑22 (audit of LMPD record retention) and urged the Council to educate itself on the FOP collective bargaining agreement, arguing that multiple provisions negatively impact police accountability. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar (items 18–28) was approved by a 22‑0 vote (with one present). It included: - O‑043‑23: Appropriating $6,330 from District 6 Neighborhood Development Funds to Luv‑It Landscaping for beautification projects. - O‑041‑23: Amending LMCO Chapter 21 regarding the Ethics Commission’s implementation of lobbying ordinances. - Seven appointments/reappointments to various boards (Kentuckiana Works, Landbank Authority, Downtown Management District, Airport Authority, NuLu Review Overlay District). - O‑033‑23: Closing a portion of East Washington Street (0.08 acres) adjacent to the I‑64 ramp. Old Business Resolution R‑020‑23 – Destruction of Confiscated Firearms - Sponsors: Tammy Hawkins (D‑1) and Jeff Hudson (R‑23). - The resolution calls on the Kentucky General Assembly to enact HB 325 and SB 168, allowing Louisville Metro to permanently destroy abandoned, confiscated, or forfeited firearms rather than auctioning them. - Several council members spoke in support, noting that auctioned firearms often return to criminal hands. Council Member Piagentini voted no, arguing the focus should be on criminals, not the tools. Council Member Reed suggested lobbying state legislators directly. - Vote: 21‑2 (Piagentini and Kramer no; Reno‑Weber present). Adopted as Resolution 015‑2023. Zoning Ordinance O‑034‑23 (1239 South Clay Street) - Proposal to subdivide a 0.0978‑acre parcel into two single‑family lots and construct two semi‑detached homes. No opposition at the Planning Commission. - Vote: 20‑0 (Reno‑Weber present). Passed as Ordinance 029‑2023. Zoning Ordinance O‑035‑23 (4500 South Hurstbourne Parkway) - Proposal for a nine‑bay auto repair facility in the Meyer Shopping Center; removes a 1994 prohibition on auto repair garages. No opposition at the Planning Commission. - Vote: 23‑0. Passed as Ordinance 030‑2023. Zoning Ordinance O‑036‑23 (10001 Vista Hills Boulevard) - Proposal to create four single‑family lots on a 1.022‑acre triangle parcel; encroachment into the Bardstown Road Parkway buffer required a waiver. Council Member Engel offered an amendment adding whereas clauses to note the waiver is not precedent. - The amendment was adopted by voice vote. Final vote: 22‑0 (Reno‑Weber present). Passed as Ordinance 031‑2023. Resolution R‑015‑23 – Review of Land Development Code Notices - Requested the Planning Commission review the LDC regarding notification procedures for development proposals. An amendment from the administration was incorporated in committee. - Council Member Piagentini explained the intent: notify suburban city clerks when a property in their jurisdiction is within notification circles, and consolidate the mailing process. - Vote: 19‑0 (Reno‑Weber present). Adopted as Resolution 016‑2023. Capital Infrastructure Fund CIF030923LMPDmB – Police 3rd Division Gym Remodel - Original proposal: $12,086.74 ($7,000 from District 14, $5,086.74 from District 12) for remodeling the gym at LMPD’s 3rd Division. - After amendments adding contributions from multiple districts, the total reached $35,607.18. Procedural motions to recommit and reconsider were debated; ultimately the item was approved with an additional $5,000 from District 23. - Final vote: 17‑2 (Reno‑Weber and Batshon present). Approved. New Business - The Assistant Clerk read items 35–49 and assigned them to the appropriate standing committees. Key items include: - O‑048‑23: Neighborhood Development Funds for the 10th Annual Riverview Independence Festival. - O‑049‑23: Funds for Elderserve, Inc. for senior services. - O‑050‑23: Funds for Kentucky Shakespeare’s Hamlet performances in parks. - R‑022‑23 and R‑024‑23: Sole‑source contracts for an overdose quick response team and LMPHW medical director. - R‑031‑23: Honoring Anna Wooldridge with a street dedication. - O‑042‑23: Amending LMCO on the Policemen’s Retirement Fund. - O‑052‑23: Requiring Council approval of changes to collective bargaining agreements. - R‑025‑23: Local incentives for PACCAR, Inc. - R‑021‑23: Zoo carousel maintenance contract. - O‑046‑23 and O‑047‑23: Zoning cases on South Spring Street and Lees Lane. - R‑023‑23: Contract with Cure Violence Global for violence reduction. - R‑026‑23 and R‑030‑23: Surplus property declaration and River Road widening acceptance. Key Outcomes - Ben Reno‑Weber appointed as District 8 Council Member after five rounds of voting. - Resolution R‑020‑23 (firearm destruction) adopted 21‑2. - Zoning ordinances O‑034‑23, O‑035‑23, and O‑036‑23 passed unanimously (with abstentions). - Resolution R‑015‑23 (LDC notice review) adopted 19‑0. - CIF for police gym remodeling approved at $35,607.18, 17‑2. - All consent calendar items passed 22‑0. - New business assigned to committees for further consideration. - Next regular Metro Council meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 13, 2023, at 6:00 PM.

The Louisville Metro Council Committee of the Whole met on March 16, 2023, at 5:28 PM to 6:34 PM in a hybrid format. The primary focus was a special discussion on the Department of Justice's (DOJ) report on the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), covering the timeline, process, and next steps. Mayor's Office Chief of Staff David Kaplan and Assistant County Attorney Eric Graninger presented an overview and answered council questions. Consent Calendar & Old Business - The consent calendar comprised items 18-29; no items were added or removed initially, though item 29 was later pulled to old business upon request. - Old business items 30-34 included four items from Planning and Zoning and one from Budget. Councilmember Flood noted a binding element amendment for one zoning item. Councilmember Blackwell briefly described the budget item (CIF030923LMPDmB) as forwarded for possible additional support. Presidential Updates - Council President Winkler reminded all staff to complete sexual harassment prevention training by March 20, and council members to complete supervisor training. - A photographer will be available on April 13 for individual and group photos. - Thanks were given for the Art in City Hall reception; artwork will remain on display for the year. - Birthdays were announced for several council staff and members. Special Discussion: DOJ Report on LMPD – Timeline and Process - David Kaplan and Eric Graninger provided an overview of the DOJ's 23-month civil investigation, which found probable cause of a pattern or practice of unconstitutional policing. The investigation covered use of force, stops/searches/seizures, discriminatory policing, and disability discrimination. - The administration immediately decided to negotiate a consent decree rather than litigate. Negotiations are expected to take months; Baltimore's took 5 months, but some have taken over a year. The consent decree will include a third-party monitor, cost estimates of $1.4–$2.25 million annually for the monitor alone, with total compliance costs potentially $5–$11 million per year based on other cities' experiences. - Kaplan stated the goal is to create measurable tasks and avoid prolonged oversight, learning from cities like Seattle (11 years and over $100 million). Councilmember Questions and Positions - Councilmember Piagentini expressed concern about long timelines and costs, citing Seattle's record crime levels. He asked about quantifiable goals to ensure an exit path. Kaplan acknowledged the challenge and said they are seeking advice from experienced negotiators. - Councilmember Reed noted the report used vague language (e.g., "many" 42 times) and asked if the city can push back for more specificity. Kaplan responded that they have a good working relationship and hope to achieve consensus on measurable reforms. - Councilmember Arthur asked about duplicate DOJ recommendations (4 and 7) and whether community input could change recommendations. Kaplan agreed to check on the duplicate and confirmed community input sessions (town halls) are planned for April 10 week, which may affect recommendations. Arthur also questioned the mayor's plan to spend ARP funds on a new LMPD headquarters and wellness center, arguing the ordinance specified funds for Hilliard Heintze/DOJ recommendations. Kaplan argued the facilities fall under public safety and DOJ support. Arthur stated the ordinance is clear and urged the mayor not to violate the law. - Councilmember Hawkins emphasized the need to address constituents whose homes were violated and who were called racial slurs, arguing policy failures do not excuse targeting. She asked about a package for affected constituents. Kaplan said they are moving forward with a consent decree. - Councilmember Purvis asked what happens to individuals wrongfully prosecuted; she requested a follow-up report on how those convictions will be rectified. Kaplan said over 60 specific incidents are under review by the chief, but names/dates were not provided by DOJ. - Councilmember Rashad asked about order of importance among the recommendations and stressed immediate need for civilian complaint improvements and restitution for harmed communities. Kaplan highlighted the recent agreement between LMPD and the Inspector General to share body camera footage and officer testimony. On restitution, Kaplan said the administration's focus is on negotiating a consent decree. - Councilmember Baker asked how many current officers have violated constitutional rights; Kaplan could not answer but said the 60+ incidents are under review. Baker also urged investment in marginalized communities as the root problem. - Councilmember Shanklin called for investigations into judges, majors, and sergeants who knew about violations. Kaplan said the administration's focus is on implementing DOJ recommendations. - Councilmember Parker stressed officer mental health and wellness, including periodic psychological evaluations and counseling, to address root causes. Kaplan noted the mayor's support for a wellness center and that DOJ agrees officer wellness is part of reform. - Councilmember Seum asked whether the previous administration's office is under investigation; Kaplan had no information. - Councilmember McCraney stated the DOJ report should have been tougher but pledged to work diligently. She urged the administration to be "transparent to a fault" and not take undue credit. - Councilmember Ackerson defended the administration (in office only 2.5 months) and asked for patience, but noted that in six months they will demand answers. Key Outcomes - The administration committed to continue collaboration with the DOJ and community to negotiate a consent decree. They will return to the Public Safety Committee on Tuesday, March 21 at 5:00 PM for further discussion. - Item 29 was pulled from the consent calendar to old business. - No votes were taken on the DOJ report or related items.

On March 13, 2023, the Louisville Metro Council Committee of the Whole held a special meeting at 4:00 PM to interview 18 applicants for the vacant District 8 Metro Council seat. The meeting, which lasted until 8:36 PM, was conducted via video teleconference with most council members present in chambers and several attending remotely. Council President Markus Winkler opened the meeting with a moment of silence marking the third anniversary of Breonna Taylor's death. Each candidate was allotted 14 minutes: a 3-minute opening statement, up to 10 minutes for questions from council members, and a 1-minute closing statement. Candidates were interviewed in the order their resumes were submitted. Three candidates (Christopher Joseph Meyer, Robert Kenyon Meyer, and Mathew Ruberg) withdrew prior to the meeting. No vote was taken; the full Metro Council will vote on the appointment at its regular meeting on Thursday, March 16, 2023, at 6:00 PM. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were heard. Discussion Items - Peggy Boeck Garrison – Lifelong Louisville resident; professional background in marketing and account management. Expressed support for social justice and collaboration. Acknowledged the DOJ report as a turning point and emphasized transparency and community voice. - Colby Lawrence Birkes – Legal fellow to former District 8 Councilmember Cassie Chambers Armstrong. Focused on health, safety, and economic prosperity. Supported increased notice protections for displaced persons and highlighted systemic inequities in housing. Stated 70% of displaced persons are Black or Hispanic. Emphasized ability to hit the ground running given prior legislative work. - Marty Meyer – Lifelong Louisville resident with government and business experience (co-founder of El Toro, a fast-growing tech company). Stressed public safety, strong relationships across parties, and re-entry programs. Expressed urgency to address crime on Bardstown Road. - Johnson Ives Webb – Staff attorney at Jefferson Circuit Court. Noted limitations of Metro Council to reform LMPD due to structural issues (qualified immunity, Commonwealth Attorney's office). Proposed better body camera policies and making misconduct a fireable offense. Acknowledged need for enforcement on panhandling and homelessness but deferred to mayor's office and LMPD. - George E. Timmering Jr. – Co-owner of Bearno's Pizza; former president of Highland Commerce Guild. Prioritized public safety, neighborhood watch expansion, and communication. Supported mandatory microchipping of dogs. Expressed willingness to run in the special election. - Ben Reno-Weber – Director at U of L Health Equity Innovation Hub; previously ran MobileServe. Emphasized coordinating resources for entrepreneurs, using data to address public safety (e.g., deflection project for nonviolent calls). Identified public safety, economic development, and infrastructure as top district issues. - Andrew C. Bailey – State vice president for JCPS staff union; former teacher. Stressed parliamentary procedure experience and budget oversight. Called for specialized policing and oversight to improve police-community relations. Supported equitable park funding across districts. - Larry Bisig – Communications professional; long involvement with Cherokee Triangle and Bonnie Castle neighborhood associations. Proposed leveraging corporate sustainability grants to fund park maintenance, tree canopy, and homelessness initiatives. Advocated for burying power lines. - Taylor McGovern U'Sellis – Lifelong District 8 resident; advocate for accessible higher education at U of L. Emphasized representation of working mothers; supported reinvestment in public safety, local businesses, and affordable housing. Highlighted a personal experience with three shootings on her street and called for community stakeholder engagement. - LaDonna Brown Johnson – JCPS educator for 20+ years. Prioritized public safety, homelessness wraparound services, and planning/zoning. Believed training and cultural competence are key for LMPD reform. Maintained the Highlands has few gang issues. - Rosemarie Sprawls – Retired JCPS counselor. Emphasized listening skills and community longevity. Supported comprehensive action on the DOJ report, working with federal, state, and local funding. Identified graffiti as potentially gang-related but stressed need for youth programs. - Brian A. Arbenz – Freelance journalist; TARC-dependent. Advocated for shifting from occupational tax to corporate taxes, tax increment financing reform, and restorative justice. Criticized current incentive packages and urged city compacts for progressive taxation. - Michael V. Lucchese – Actuary at Humana; park steward and member of Cherokee Triangle Association. Top priority: safety (including feeling safe). Proposed regular meetings with neighborhood associations, data-driven problem-solving, and using actuarial skills for fiscal responsibility. Noted ongoing concerns about Bardstown Road corridor. - William P. Schreck – Retired city and state public servant with over 40 years experience. Emphasized ability to start immediately; committed only to interim appointment until the special election. Prioritized listening and consensus-building; addressed homelessness and public safety. - Michael A. Triebsch – Retired Toyota corporate communications; previously worked for Olmsted Parks Conservancy and Louisville Zoo. Focused on homelessness, poverty, and recreation. Believed addressing hopelessness reduces crime. Supported restructuring police to redirect nonviolent calls to social services. - Lemuel Mason – 13-year resident originally from Philadelphia; works in disability services. Emphasized advocacy for vulnerable populations, public transportation expansion, and complete streets. Noted Bardstown Road has changed for the worse but was not familiar with specific gang issues. - Craig A. DaRif – Retired JCPS teacher (22 years); volunteered at hospitals. Stressed career experience and community engagement. Supported no-kill animal shelters. Admitted steep learning curve but expressed commitment to learning. - Jo Lloyd-Triplett – Immigrant from Manchester, UK; worked in Metro Government, nonprofits, and leadership development. Prioritized safety, representation of women and immigrants, and supporting local businesses. Called for innovative policing and community-based crime prevention; pledged to listen to district needs. Key Outcomes - No vote was taken. The committee of the whole adjourned at 8:36 PM. - The full Metro Council will convene on Thursday, March 16, 2023, at 6:00 PM to vote on the appointment of one candidate to fill the District 8 seat.

The Louisville Metro Council Parks and Sustainability Committee met on Thursday, March 9, 2023, at 3:05 p.m. in Council Chambers/virtually. Chair Jecorey Arthur (D-4) presided; eight committee members and non-committee members Andrew Owen and Jennifer Chappell attended. The committee took up one agenda item: R-014-23, a resolution opposing seizure of conservation land for a proposed natural gas pipeline through Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. After presentations and several procedural votes, the committee voted 4-3-1 to table the resolution. The meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m. Pending Legislation: R-014-23 - Sponsor Councilwoman Betsy Ruhe (D-21) introduced the resolution as a statement against LGE's use of eminent domain to build a natural gas pipeline across Bernheim Forest, an area protected by a conservation easement. She argued the project's cost has tripled, it would become a stranded asset, it conflicts with Metro Council's prior renewable energy and net-zero greenhouse gas emission goals, and that eminent domain should serve the public good. - Committee Member Khalil Batshon moved, and Phillip Baker seconded, to recommend approval; after testimony, debate shifted to a motion to table. Presentations and Public Testimony - Dr. Mark Wourms, Executive Director of Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, described Bernheim as a roughly 16,000-acre forest with 350,000 to 400,000 annual visitors, 13 headwater streams, and rare species including endangered bats, golden eagles, and the Bluff Vertigo snail. He said the proposed 12-mile LGE pipeline would cut about 12 acres across the Cedar Grove Wildlife Corridor, permanently fragmenting habitat, breaking conservation easements, and crossing unstable karst terrain. He said LGE, a $1.2 billion company whose parent PPL is worth more than $5 billion, would need to pour concrete into caves and sinkholes and has no credible sustainability plan. - Elisa Owen, spokesperson for Kentucky Interfaith Power and Light and a coalition of nonprofits representing 8,450 Jefferson County residents, opposed the pipeline. She argued LGE is moving 180 degrees from 21st-century energy needs, threatening private property rights, conservation easement law, ratepayers, and the climate. She cited the World Wildlife Fund Living Planet report's finding of a 69% drop in monitored vertebrate populations since 1970 and said renewable power with storage is lower-cost and cleaner than natural gas. Committee Discussion - Vice Chair Marilyn Parker questioned why LGE had not been invited and asked how large the affected area would be, and why terrain stability was not a larger concern. - Council Member Jeff Hudson said he agreed with almost all of the resolution but could not support subsection 2 of section 1 because he believed it directs a private business how to conduct its business. - Council Member Andrew Owen, a non-committee member, argued that LGE is a public-granted monopoly and that eminent domain should be used only when a very high bar is met. He said the pipeline is not such a case and would become a stranded asset. - Council Member Jennifer Chappell expressed support for the resolution and said protecting the natural environment is important even though Bernheim is not in Jefferson County. - Committee Member Khalil Batshon said the committee should hear LGE's side before voting and moved to table the resolution. - Committee Member Cindi Fowler, after conferring with staff, made a motion to reconsider the failed tabling motion so more information could be obtained. - Sponsor Ruhe said LGE would have an opportunity to respond before the full Metro Council; Clerk Sonya Harward noted that outside agencies cannot speak at a council meeting. - Assistant Jefferson County Attorney Jason Fowler clarified that the resolution is non-binding: it urges or asks LGE to divert resources and does not legally compel LGE to do anything. - Clerk Sonya Harward noted procedural limits, including that the same motion cannot be made twice and that reconsideration was the available path. Key Outcomes - First motion to table R-014-23 failed: 3 yes (Parker, Hudson, Batshon), 4 no (Arthur, Baker, Fowler, Ruhe), 1 abstention (Mulvihill). - Motion to reconsider the tabling vote carried: 4 yes (Fowler, Parker, Hudson, Batshon), 3 no (Arthur, Baker, Ruhe), 1 abstention (Mulvihill). - Second motion to table R-014-23 carried: 4 yes (Fowler, Parker, Hudson, Batshon), 3 no (Arthur, Baker, Ruhe), 1 abstention (Mulvihill). The resolution was tabled. - Committee Member Pat Mulvihill abstained on all matters because his wife is employed by LGE. - No recommendation was sent to the full Metro Council; the item remains pending before the committee.

The Louisville Metro Budget and Appropriations Committee met on Thursday, March 9, 2023, at 4:31 PM in Council Chambers with a virtual option. Vice Chair Kevin Kramer presided in the absence of Chair Rick Blackwell. The committee approved nine funding appropriations, sent one item to the full council for additional contributions, and held one ordinance for further discussion. Consent Calendar - O-043-23 – An ordinance appropriating $6,330 from District 6 Neighborhood Development Funds to Luv-It Landscaping for beautification and landscaping projects. Approved by a 6-0 roll call vote and sent to the full council consent calendar. Discussion Items - Item 1 (NDF030923LMPD01) – Appropriated $2,641.21 from District 1 Neighborhood Development Funds to Louisville Metro Police Department for steering wheel lock devices to combat Kia/Hyundai theft. Approved by voice vote. - Item 2 (NDF030923MP01) – Appropriated $1,700 from District 1 Neighborhood Development Funds to Metro Parks for the Mr. Moore Memorial March Madness Basketball League (food and plaque). Approved by voice vote. - Item 4 (CIF030923LMPDmA) – Appropriated $24,350 from Capital Infrastructure Funds (split among Districts 7, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20) to purchase two radar speed trailers for the 8th Division. District 17 Legislative Aide Kip Eatherly noted the division covers nearly 90 square miles and the trailers can be used near schools. Approved by voice vote. - Item 5 (CIF030923PW04) – Appropriated $16,000 from District 4 Capital Infrastructure Funds to Public Works for sidewalk repairs at 1650 and 1652 Story Avenue. Council Member Arthur explained the scope expanded from one address to two due to tree root damage. Approved by voice vote. - Item 6 (NDF030923PW04A) – Appropriated $544.80 from District 4 Neighborhood Development Funds to lease a streetlight (five-year agreement with LG&E) in an alley between 16th and 17th Streets north of Hale Avenue. Approved by voice vote. - Item 7 (NDF030923PW04B) – Appropriated $1,049.40 from District 4 Neighborhood Development Funds to install a new streetlight on Drescher Bridge (five-year lease with LG&E). A lengthy discussion followed on long-term funding for streetlights, with Council Member Piagentini calling for a holistic city policy and Council Member Arthur requesting clarification. Beth Stenberg, Council Financial Analyst, explained that NDF (not CIF) is used because Metro does not own the pole, and after five years there is no guarantee of continued city funding. Council Member Hudson noted the initial cost includes installation, so ongoing costs would be lower. Council Member Mulvihill abstained due to his wife’s employment at LG&E. Approved by a 7-0-1 roll call vote (Mulvihill abstaining). - Item 8 (CIF030923LMPDmB) – Appropriated $12,086.74 from Capital Infrastructure Funds ($7,000 from District 14, $5,086.74 from District 12) for remodeling the Louisville Metro Police 3rd Division gym. Council Member Fowler stated the total project cost is $35,607.18 and that she and Council Member Blackwell would cover any shortfall from districts that opt out. The committee sent the item to Old Business to allow other council members to contribute on the floor. Approved by voice vote. - Item 9 (CIF030923PW23) – Appropriated $8,000 from District 23 Capital Infrastructure Funds to Public Works for sidewalk repairs at 9013 and 9020 Black Powder Lane. Council Member Hudson said the repair was identified during a gemba walk and the funds would accelerate work. Approved by voice vote. - Item 10 (O-374-22) – An ordinance to address underbudget Council-approved American Rescue Plan (ARP) projects through reappropriations. This item remained held in committee and was not discussed. Key Outcomes - All nine appropriations (Items 1–9) were approved. Item 7 passed with one abstention. Item 3 was sent to the full council consent calendar. Item 8 was sent to Old Business with a request for additional district contributions to reach the $35,607.18 total. Item 10 was held. - The meeting adjourned at 4:55 PM.