Public Meetings - Louisville, Kentucky

Date: March 8, 2023 Time: 4:00 PM (ET) Location: Council Chambers/Virtual (Video Teleconference) This meeting of the Government Oversight/Audit and Appointments Committee was called to order by Chair Cindi Fowler. The committee considered multiple appointments and reappointments to various boards and commissions, as well as an ordinance related to the Ethics Commission's lobbying implementation. Most items were approved and placed on the consent calendar. Appointments and Reappointments – Consent Calendar The following appointments and reappointments were approved by voice vote without significant debate or objection, each moved to the consent calendar: - Appointment: Monica Collins to the Kentuckiana Works Greater Louisville Workforce Development Board (term expires March 13, 2024). Ms. Collins, from the Commonwealth of Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet, was nominated for a prescribed seat. - Appointment: Jacqueline Floyd to the Landbank Authority (term expires February 28, 2024). Ms. Floyd, a long-time Russell neighborhood resident and employee of Cities United, was nominated for a Russell representation seat required by the board’s structure (includes governor, mayor, and Board of Education seats). - Appointment: Matthew Cornell to the Louisville Downtown Management District Board (term expires February 16, 2026). Mr. Cornell, representing KCTCS property in downtown territory, meets the property-owner eligibility requirement. - Appointment: Stephen Pazienza to the Louisville Downtown Management District Board (term expires March 23, 2026). Mr. Pazienza, Director of Safety & Security at Humana Inc., the large property owner, was also eligible to serve. - Reappointment: Andy Treinen to the Louisville Downtown Management District Board (term expires March 23, 2026). Mr. Treinen is Vice President of Frasier, and his reappointment was noted positively. One committee member asked about diversity on the board; the nominator (Althea Jackson) responded that the current roster is very diverse and invited member suggestions for property owners who could serve. - Reappointment: Dale Boden to the Louisville Regional Airport Authority (term expires July 15, 2027). Mr. Boden serves as Chair of the Authority, and is alive in District 4, business-related to BF Capital Inc. - Appointment: Douglas Owen to the NuLu Review Overlay District Committee (term expires February 26, 2026). Mr. Owen will fill a prescribed seat representing the Landmarks Commission. (Note: When a council member sought his opinion on landmarks, Mr. Owen was not present.) - Reappointment: Andrea Lauago to the NuLu Review Overlay District Committee (term expires February 26, 2026). Ms. Lauago is a representative from the Planning and Design Services staff, serving a prescribed seat. Discussion Items Ordinance O-041-23 – Extension of Time for Ethics Commission to Implement Lobbying Rules This ordinance amends LMCO Chapter 21, extending the timeline for the Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Ethics Commission to adopt rules/regs for lobbyists. Todd Lewis, counsel for the Ethics Commission, explained that after the start of a new chair and counsel, the due time was too short: they need a 60-day extension beyond the original February 14 deadline. He stated that the forms/FAQs are being drafted and should be published by the next meeting on March 16. The ordinance passed unanimously 6 yes (C. Fowler, K. Kramer, D. Purvis, R. Chad, S. Reed, J. Chappell) and moved to the full Council’s consent calendar. Special Discussion – No Business (deleted) Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of all 8 appointment reappointment items; all placed on the consent calendar. - Ordinance O-04177 passed without objection, providing a 60-day extension for the Ethics Commission to finalize the lobbying regulation. - Chair Fowler noted that a separate item (likely AP030823JF) was held for discussion, but the record shows only numbers 1–8 and O-04177 were heard; the meeting was subsequently adjourned. Meeting adjourned at approximately 2:58 p.m. --- Note: The minutes originally taken for this committee do not exist; the actual committee heard these items on March 8, 2023.

The Labor and Economic Development Committee met on March 7, 2023, at 3:07 PM in Council Chambers and virtually. Chair Pat Mulvihill (D-10) called the meeting to order with a quorum of seven members present. The sole agenda item was a presentation on the Advanced Manufacturing and Information Technology (AMIT) Center by Dr. Reneau Waggoner, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Nickie Cobb, Associate Vice President for Workforce Solutions, both from Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC). The meeting adjourned at 3:38 PM without any votes or formal actions. Presentation: Advanced Manufacturing and Information Technology (AMIT) Center Updates Dr. Waggoner and Dr. Cobb provided an overview of the AMIT Center, located at 762 South First Street. The 50,000-square-foot facility opened in August 2020 and houses programs in advanced manufacturing (machine tool, welding, industrial maintenance) and information technology (IT). Classes run Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 10 PM. Key data shared: - Since fall 2020, 70 unique courses across 14 subject areas have been delivered. - Pass rate is 89% (compared to the college-wide average of 70%). - 970 students have enrolled, generating 2,677 course enrollments and approximately 8,000 credit hours. - 3,506 credentials have been awarded, ranging from short-term certificates to associate degrees. - High-wage, high-demand occupations: industrial maintenance average annual wage $59,000; KY FAME program graduates (employer-sponsored, 2.5 years) reach $70,000–$80,000 within two years of graduation. - About 80% of technical program graduates are employed in their field of study, often before graduation. - Work-based learning programs highlighted: Waystar Scholars, BIT 502, Kentucky FAME, and MAPS, many allowing students to earn while learning debt-free. - The building enabled expansion of automotive and aviation programs at JCTC's tech campus. - Partnerships include small and large employers such as GE Appliances (vision system training for robotics), Toyota, and Waystar. Discussion and Questions Committee members engaged with presenters on several topics: - Chair Mulvihill asked about the levels of credentials offered (certificate, diploma, associate degree) and how they align with employer needs. Dr. Cobb explained certificates can be earned in as little as one month, diplomas in about one year, and associate degrees in two years. Programs are 100% workforce-driven and can start on demand. - Vice Chair Anthony Piagentini (R-19) praised the direct-to-employment model and noted that wage data shown (from 2019–2020) likely understates current wages due to inflation. He recommended sharing placement rates (confirmed at 80%) as a key metric. He also highlighted the relevance of JCTC programs to emerging industries like the new battery plant south of Louisville. - Councilman Phillip T. Baker (D-6) inquired about diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, particularly for women and underrepresented minorities. Dr. Cobb described targeted recruitment through the Waystar Scholars program, efforts to recruit female instructors (e.g., female electrician and welder), and plans for a women-in-industrial-maintenance cohort. She provided contact information (email: nicole.cobb@kctcs.edu) for those interested. - Councilman Robin Engel (R-22) asked about outreach to younger students, especially through Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS). Dr. Waggoner noted ongoing coordination with JCPS leadership, dual credit efforts, and recruitment from surrounding counties (Carroll, Shelby, Bullitt). Councilman Engel emphasized the importance of the AMIT Center for attracting major manufacturing employers and urged continued engagement with the council. Key Outcomes No formal motions, votes, or referrals were made. The committee received the presentation with appreciation. Chair Mulvihill suggested arranging a tour of the AMIT Center for interested council members. The committee is scheduled to meet again in two weeks.

The Planning and Zoning Committee met on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, from 1:03 PM to 2:58 PM in Council Chambers and virtually. Chair Madonna Flood presided; seven committee members were present (Baker, Chappell, Reed, Ruhe, Engel, Flood, Batshon) plus non-committee member Piagentini. The committee considered twelve pending items and held a special discussion on planning and zoning processes. Several zoning ordinances were recommended for approval, one was tabled, and a resolution was amended and advanced. Discussion Items - O-022-23 (1920 & 1922 Herr Lane) – Held in committee. - O-031-23 (768, 810, 850 Barret Ave & 1235 E Breckinridge St) – Held in committee. - O-034-23 (1239 S Clay Street) – Approved 7-0 (motion by Engel, second by Batshon). The Planning Commission recommended rezoning 0.0978 acres from R6 to UN (urban neighborhood) to allow a semi-detached duplex on two subdivided lots. No opposition was voiced; committee members noted this addresses missing middle housing. Questions were raised about maintenance of shared walls, but the county attorney advised such private agreements need not be regulated in this case. Sent to old business. - O-035-23 (4500 S Hurstbourne Parkway) – Approved 7-0 (motion by Reed, second by Batshon). The Planning Commission recommended rezoning 0.92 acres from C-1 to C-2 for a Christian Brothers Automotive repair facility within the Meyer Shopping Center. No one spoke in opposition. Binding elements include no outdoor storage, a 24-hour limit on vehicles, trash collection after 6 AM, and construction of two transit shelters within 60 days. Sent to old business. - O-036-23 (10001 Vista Hills Boulevard) – Approved 7-0 (motion by Engel, second by Reed). The Planning Commission recommended rezoning 1.022 acres from R-R to R-5 to create four single-family lots. Concern was raised about encroachment on the Barstown Parkway buffer. Staff noted the encroachment is limited to one lot and is justifiable due to lot shape and existing structures. An amendment will be added stating this is not precedent-setting. Sent to old business. - O-037-23 (7717 & 7721 St. Andrews Church Road) – Tabled after an amendment. The Planning Commission recommended rezoning 1.97 acres from R-6 to C-N for a Dollar General store. Three people spoke in opposition at the planning commission hearing. The committee added binding element 14 (requiring future changes to go through planning commission and Metro Council). Concerns were raised about traffic, lack of connection to Cardinal Oaks Drive (private road), sidewalk safety near schools, and flooding. A motion to table carried by voice vote for further study. - O-032-23 (814 Vine Street) – Held in committee. - O-033-23 (E Washington Street closure) – Approved 7-0 (motion by Engel, second by Baker). The Planning Commission recommended closing a 0.08-acre portion of East Washington Street adjacent to I-64 East ramp. The applicant owns properties on both sides. No opposition. Sent to the consent calendar. - O-113-22 (delinquent taxes and zoning applications) – Sponsorship withdrawn by Chair Flood; she indicated it will be reintroduced with cleaner amendments. - O-013-23 (11905 Dixie Highway) – Held in committee. - R-009-23 (review LDC for revised development plans) – Held in committee. - R-015-23 (review LDC relating to notices) – Amended and recommended for approval (motion by Reed, second by Batshon). Sponsor Piagentini explained the resolution asks the planning commission to study: (1) notifying suburban cities about zoning matters affecting their residents, and (2) creating a more centralized process for mailing Tier 1 notices to reduce variability. The amendment clarified that the mailing process review should include procedures but not necessarily mandate PDS to send the notices, while also examining cost responsibility (paid by applicants). A technical correction was noted. The amended resolution passed by voice vote and went to old business. Special Discussion - ID 23-0160 – All Things Planning and Zoning: Julia Williams of Planning and Design Services presented an overview of zoning districts, form districts, the Land Development Code, notification processes, and public resources. Topics included the two-tier zoning system, roles of the Board of Zoning Adjustment and Planning Commission, and how citizens can access information via the Accela portal, weekly activity reports, and the Lexington Code. Council members asked about the process and were advised by Travis Fiechter (County Attorney) on the importance of avoiding prejudgment and limiting involvement before the planning commission record is complete. The discussion will continue at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Recommended for approval (to full council): O-034-23, O-035-23, O-036-23 (all by 7-0 votes). - Recommended for approval and sent to consent calendar: O-033-23 (7-0). - Recommended for approval (amended): R-015-23 (voice vote). - Tabled: O-037-23 (voice vote). - Sponsorship withdrawn: O-113-22. - Held in committee: O-022-23, O-031-23, O-032-23, O-013-23, R-009-23. - Items sent to old business or consent calendar will be heard at the Metro Council meeting on March 16, 2023.

The Public Safety Committee of the Louisville Metro Council met on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers (via video teleconference with some members in chambers). Chair Brent Ackerson called the meeting to order, and a quorum of 8 members was present. The single agenda item was a resolution urging the Kentucky General Assembly to allow Louisville Metro to permanently destroy abandoned, confiscated, or forfeited firearms. Discussion Items - R-020-23 (sponsored by Councilmembers Tammy Hawkins and Jeff Hudson): A resolution calling on the Kentucky General Assembly to enact House Bill 325 and Senate Bill 168, which would empower Louisville-Jefferson County Metro Government to permanently destroy firearms in its custody that are abandoned, confiscated, or forfeited. - Councilmember Hudson explained that currently such firearms must be sent to Kentucky State Police for auction, and documented cases exist where those auctioned guns later resurfaced in crimes. He argued that guns used in crimes, including murders, should be destroyed. - Councilmember Hawkins voiced full support, stating that gun violence in Louisville is out of control and that taking the pins out of guns would help. - Councilmember Reed asked about the revenue lost from gun auctions. Hudson replied that it is about $100 per gun, and Hawkins added that Louisville Metro Police Department receives $100,000–$200,000 annually from such sales. The mayor had committed to backfilling that revenue from other sources, though Reed noted that commitment would require budget approval. - Councilmember Owen noted that each gunshot costs the city hundreds of thousands of dollars, making the lost revenue insignificant in comparison. He referenced a news conference by the mayor featuring the Gwynn family, who lost a son and whose daughter was shot, as a compelling reason for the resolution. - Councilmember Reed clarified that despite questions about revenue, he supports the resolution for its symbolism and because the $100,000–$200,000 is not significant in the overall budget. - Multiple members acknowledged that resolutions to the state often fail but argued that local government must continue to express its position. Key Outcomes - A motion to recommend approval of R-020-23 was made by Vice Chair Reed and seconded by Councilmember Owen. - The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote. - The resolution was sent to the Consent Calendar for consideration by the full Metro Council at its March 16, 2023 meeting.

The Louisville Metro Council met in hybrid video teleconference on Thursday, March 2, 2023. President Markus Winkler called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m.; 25 members were present, one seat was vacant, and the meeting adjourned at 7:09 p.m. The Council approved the consent calendar, adopted several amended ordinances, approved zoning cases, heard one public speaker, and took first readings on new business. Call to Order, Recognitions & Page - District 17 page Scarlett Eatherly was introduced. - Council Member Baker recognized the National Pan-Hellenic Council (the 'Divine Nine'); Council Member McCraney also spoke and presented lapel pins. - Council President Winkler and Council Member Baker recognized Le'Roy Ford, a Louisville Metro Public Works equipment operator, for rescuing a father and daughter stranded in a vehicle during the December 22, 2022 snowstorm on Six Mile Lane and directing traffic until EMS arrived. Public Comments & Testimony - Jared Randall, a Tilleryberry neighborhood resident, asked the Council to consider city park rangers, later community-center hours and youth programming, better public transportation access, and computers/printers at the South Louisville Community Center. He cited a June 7, 2021 park shooting and said 'bullets don't know no color.' Communications & Appointments - The Clerk read Mayor Craig Greenberg's appointments to the Louisville Downtown Management District Board, KentuckianaWorks/Greater Louisville Workforce Development Board, Landbank Authority, NuLu Review Overlay District Committee, and Louisville Regional Airport Authority Board. Appointments requiring Council approval were referred to the Government Oversight/Audit and Appointments Committee. Consent Calendar - The Consent Calendar, Items 19-24, was approved 24-0 (Council Member Flood absent). Approved items included: - O-025-23: transfer of $100,000 from the District 7 Neighborhood Development Fund to the District 7 Capital Infrastructure Fund (Ordinance 018-2023). - O-029-23: $50,000 from District 2 Neighborhood Development Funds to the Jefferson County Public Education Foundation for Newburg Middle School football field repairs (Ordinance 019-2023). - R-002-23: local incentives for LDG Multifamily, LLC under KRS Chapter 154, Subchapter 32 (Resolution 011-2023). - R-004-23: local incentives for Eberspacher North America, Inc., n/k/a Purem Novi Inc. (Resolution 012-2023). - R-011-23: $307,478 for a noncompetitively negotiated Trauma Assistance and Management Program contract with Crossnore Communities for Children (Resolution 013-2023). - O-021-23: closure of unnamed alleys adjacent to S. 23rd and Maple streets, approximately 0.068 acres (Ordinance 020-2023). Special Legislation - R-019-23, a resolution directing initiation of an ethics complaint against Council Member Anthony Piagentini regarding ARP funding, was listed on the agenda but was not called; an attachment indicated the sponsorship was withdrawn. Discussion Items O-321-22: Contractor Sexual Harassment Reporting and Nondisclosure Agreements - Council Member Arthur presented technical amendments developed with Greater Louisville Inc., explained by Assistant County Attorney Kathryn Meador. The amendments allowed an employee to voluntarily seek a settlement agreement if they have a right or claim and clarified that reporting applies to employees who live in Louisville Metro. - The amended ordinance passed 25-0 as Ordinance 021-2023. R-010-23: Metro Council Social Media Policy - Council Member McCraney said the updated policy in the Employee Handbook addresses Metro Council's specific social media use, state data retention, ethics compliance, and First Amendment protections. - The resolution was adopted by voice vote as Resolution 014-2023. O-030-23: American Rescue Plan Amendments - This ordinance amended ARP Round 2 and Round 3 projects: extending the Outdoor Safe Space timeframe (LAT-0050), expanding homelessness-resources authorization to include a Community Care Campus (LAT-0053), extending public safety reform implementation (LAT-0061), and accelerating public safety hiring incentive payments (LAT-0069). - Council Member Arthur moved to strike Section 2/LAT-0061, arguing that the mayor's same-day LMPD announcement did not align with the ordinance's public safety reform description. Council Members Piagentini, Owen, and Blackwell supported the amendment for transparency; Council Member McCraney asked whether other funding would be available later. Council Member Baker abstained because his father's church is near a project and he was uncertain about effects on property values and return on investment. - The amendment passed 24-0-1 and the final ordinance passed 24-0-1 as Ordinance 022-2023. O-028-23: Mental Health Lou & You Neighborhood Development Funds - The ordinance originally totaled $5,250, then was amended to $10,000 for a mental health speaker and personnel series in Louisville Free Public Library branches. Sponsors and members added NDF contributions, including $2,000 from District 25, $1,000 each from Districts 17 and 20, $500 from District 18, and $250 from District 16, with earlier District 2, 4, and 19 funding retained. - Council Members spoke in support of mental health resources; Council Member Flood named the planned library branches, including Southwest Regional, Northeast Regional, Main, Newburg, Western, and Bon Air. - The amended ordinance passed 24-0, with Council Member McCraney present, as Ordinance 023-2023. O-019-23 and O-020-23: Hurstbourne Parkway/Bardstown Road Zoning - Council Member Flood recused herself because the properties are owned by the Archbishop of Louisville and she serves on the Catholic Charities board. Council Member Blackwell abstained because he is an Archdiocese employee. - O-019-23 (4700 S. Hurstbourne Parkway, about 19.70 acres) passed 23-0-1 (Flood absent, Blackwell abstained) as Ordinance 024-2023. - O-020-23 (4900 S. Hurstbourne Parkway and 5119/5201 Bardstown Road, about 28.42 acres) passed 22-0-2 (Flood and Parker absent, Blackwell abstained) as Ordinance 025-2023. New Business and Committee Referrals - The Clerk gave first readings for Items 32-41 and assigned them to committees: - Budget and Appropriations: O-043-23, appropriating $6,330 from District 6 Neighborhood Development Funds through Metro Parks to Luv-It Landscaping. - Government Oversight/Audit and Appointments: O-041-23, amending LMCO Chapter 21 regarding the Ethics Commission's lobbying-ordinance implementation timeline. - Planning and Zoning: O-031-23 (Barret Avenue/Breckinridge Street), O-032-23 (814 Vine Street PDO and Pattern Book), O-033-23 (East Washington Street closure), O-034-23 (1239 S. Clay Street), O-035-23 (4500 S. Hurstbourne Parkway), O-036-23 (10001 Vista Hills Boulevard), and O-037-23 (7717/7721 St. Andrews Church Road). - Public Safety: R-020-23, calling on the Kentucky General Assembly to enact House Bill 325 and Senate Bill 168 to allow Louisville Metro to permanently destroy abandoned, confiscated, or forfeited firearms. - No vote was taken on these first-reading items at this meeting. Note: the action summary lists enactment numbers for some of these new-business items, but the agenda and transcript show only first reading and committee referral on March 2. Key Outcomes - Approved council and committee minutes by voice vote. - Consent Calendar approved 24-0. - O-321-22 passed 25-0. - R-010-23 adopted by voice vote. - O-030-23 amendment and final passage both 24-0-1 (Baker abstaining). - O-028-23 passed 24-0 (McCraney present). - O-019-23 passed 23-0-1 (Flood absent, Blackwell abstained). - O-020-23 passed 22-0-2 (Flood and Parker absent, Blackwell abstained). - R-019-23 was not called. - Council President Winkler announced the next Metro Council meeting for Thursday, March 16, 2023, at 6:00 p.m.

Council President Markus Winkler called the meeting to order at 5:23 PM on March 2, 2023. The meeting was held pursuant to KRS 61.826 and Council Rule 5A, with 24 members present (one excused) and two members attending virtually. The session focused on reviewing the Metro Council agenda for the upcoming full council meeting, discussing several legislative items, and receiving presidential updates. The meeting adjourned at 5:34 PM. Consent Calendar - Items 19–24 were placed on the consent calendar with no objections or removals. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were heard during this committee meeting. Discussion Items - Recognitions (from transcript): Council President Winkler noted that Councilman Baker would recognize the National Pan Hellenic Council, and later both would recognize Mr. LaRoy Ford, a public works equipment operator who helped a stranded father and daughter during a major snowstorm late last year. - Old Business – Items 26–31: - Item 26 (O-0321-22): Councilmembers Mulvihill and Arthur spoke about the NDA legislation, which had been held earlier. Councilman Arthur confirmed it was ready for passage after amendments suggested by Greater Louisville Inc. were incorporated and loaded into the system. - Item 27 (R-010-23): Councilwoman McCraney highlighted the resolution updating the employee handbook to include a social media policy, noting it aligns with First Amendment protections and provides guidance for proper use of Metro Council social media accounts. - Items 28 (O-030-23) and 29 (O-028-23): Councilman Blackwell described the budget items—item 29 as regular appropriations due to an amendment for additional support, and item 28 as an amended Schedule A adjusting dates for previously approved expenditures. Councilman Arthur expressed concerns about pushing the items forward, referencing an announcement from the mayor regarding unspecified elements not detailed in the ordinance; he stated he would seek clarification from the administration and, if needed, move to hold or send the items back to committee. - Items 30 (O-019-23) and 31 (O-020-23): Councilwoman Flood reported that these planning and zoning items were companion pieces; she would abstain from voting due to a conflict of interest (board membership with Catholic Charities, which is related to the Roman Catholic Bishop of Louisville ownership). Councilman Reed noted both passed unanimously in the planning and zoning committee. - New Business – Item 33 (O-041-23): Councilwoman Fowler introduced a lobbying ordinance amendment extending the timeline for the ethics commission to meet their deadline, as they had requested more time to gather information. - Other Updates: Councilman Mulvihill addressed the labor and economic development item (NDA) as noted under old business. Key Outcomes - District 8 Vacancy: Applications closed March 3 at 5:00 PM (with postmark allowance). As of the meeting, 14 applicants had applied. The County Attorney will review eligibility; the list of eligible candidates will be sent to members. A special Committee of the Whole for interviews is scheduled for March 13 at 4:00 PM, with a vote to fill the vacancy at the March 16 regular council meeting at 6:00 PM. All candidates will be briefed together before interviews to streamline the process. - Sexual Harassment Training: Employee training is due by March 20; council members and managerial staff must complete supervisory training by March 30. Council members must complete both trainings. - Professional Photographs: A photographer will be available on April 13, 2023 for individual and group photos. - Art in City Hall: The application deadline closed February 27. Councilwoman Chappell and Councilman Hudson are reviewing 40 artists' works; they will narrow to 10, then select 5 finalists who will each receive a $500 honorarium. Art is expected to be installed by the March 13 council meeting. - Birthdays Recognized: Councilman Fowler (March 7), Amy Luckett (March 11), and Sophia White (March 15). - Adjournment: Without objection, the meeting adjourned at 5:34 PM. Note: The meeting transcript includes remarks on mental health, gun destruction, and lead testing, which appear to be from a separate event or presentation and are not part of the official committee proceedings.

The Committee on Committees met on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 4:01 PM in Council Chambers/Virtual, chaired by Council President Markus Winkler. A quorum was present with Vice Chair Paula McCraney (D-7) and Committee Member Cindi Fowler (D-14) (attending virtually), while Committee Members Kevin Kramer (R-11) and Anthony Piagentini (R-19) were excused. The meeting lasted until 4:09 PM and focused on assigning new legislation to appropriate committees and acting on pending legislation. New Business: Committee Assignments - R-019-23: A resolution directing the Council President and/or the Chair of the Government Oversight/Audit and Appointment Committee to initiate a complaint with the Louisville Metro Ethics Commission regarding Council Member Anthony Piagentini’s actions in connection with the sixth round of American Rescue Plan funding. (Note: The agenda listed only the Council President, but the minutes and transcript include the Chair of the Government Oversight Committee as an alternative.) Assigned to Metro Council (Special Legislation). - O-043-23: An ordinance appropriating $6,330 from District 6 Neighborhood Development Funds, through Metro Parks, to Luv-It Landscaping for beautification and landscaping projects in District 6. Assigned to Budget and Appropriations Committee. - Items 3–8: Appointments and an ordinance assigned to Government Oversight/Audit and Appointments Committee: - Louisville Downtown Management District Board – Matthew Cornell and Stephan Pazienza (new appointments), Andy Treinen (reappointment). - KentuckianaWorks – Greater Louisville Workforce Development Board – Monica Collins (new appointment). - Landbank Authority – Jacqueline Floyd (new appointment). - Nulu Review Overlay District Committee – Douglas Owen (new appointment), Andrea Lauago (reappointment). - Louisville Regional Airport Authority Board – Dale Boden (reappointment). - O-041-23: An ordinance amending LMCO Chapter 21 relating to the Ethics Commission’s implementation of lobbying ordinances. - Items 9–15: Zoning and street closure ordinances assigned to Planning and Zoning Committee, all sponsored by Council Member Madonna Flood (D-24): - O-031-23: Rezoning of 768, 810, and 850 Barret Avenue and 1235 East Breckinridge Street (approx. 9.67 acres). - O-032-23: Planned Development Option and Pattern Book for 814 Vine Street (approx. 2.10 acres). - O-033-23: Closure of a portion of East Washington Street adjacent to I-64 east ramp (approx. 0.08 acres). - O-034-23: Rezoning of 1239 South Clay Street (approx. 0.0978 acres). - O-035-23: Rezoning of 4500 South Hurstbourne Parkway (approx. 0.92 acres). - O-036-23: Rezoning of 10001 Vista Hills Boulevard (approx. 1.022 acres). - O-037-23: Rezoning of 7717 and 7721 St. Andrews Church Road (approx. 1.97 acres). - R-020-23: A resolution calling on the Kentucky General Assembly to enact House Bill 325 (and Senate Bill 168 per minutes) empowering Louisville Metro to permanently destroy abandoned, confiscated, or forfeited firearms. Assigned to Public Safety Committee. Pending Legislation: Social Media Policy Amendment (R-010-23) Council President Winkler introduced a resolution amending the Metro Council Employee Handbook to update the social media policy. He noted that the policy was written specifically for Metro Council and addresses data retention, ethics compliance, and First Amendment protections for both Council users and the public. An amendment (R-010-23 V.2 CAM) correcting technical and grammatical errors was moved by Committee Member Fowler, seconded by Vice Chair McCraney, and passed by voice vote without opposition. Assistant Jefferson County Attorney Kathryn Meador spoke in support, emphasizing that the policy enhances First Amendment protections. The amended resolution was then recommended for approval by a voice vote (motion by Vice Chair McCraney, second by Committee Member Fowler) and sent to Old Business. Key Outcomes - All new legislative items were assigned to their respective committees as listed above. - R-010-23 was amended and recommended for approval by the full Metro Council (Enactment No. Resolution 014-2023). - The meeting adjourned without objection at 4:09 PM.

The Parks and Sustainability Committee met on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 3:05 PM in Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was a presentation and discussion with the Louisville Water Company regarding the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment and its impact on the Ohio River. Resolution R-014-23, opposing a natural gas pipeline through Bernheim Forest, was held in committee and not discussed. Discussion Items - Louisville Water Update: Vince Guenthner (CEO), Kelley Dearing Smith (VP of Marketing and Communications), and Chris Bobay (Manager of Water Quality) presented. - Guenthner provided an overview: Louisville Water was founded in 1860, employs 420 people, maintains over 4,000 miles of water main, delivers an average of 120 million gallons per day, and meets or exceeds all EPA standards with 100% compliance. The lab runs over 200 water quality tests daily. - Bobay detailed the response to the East Palestine derailment (February 3). The first detection of butylacrylate occurred at Weirton, West Virginia on February 6, at levels of 1-4 parts per billion (health screening level: 560 ppb). No chemicals were detected past Huntington, West Virginia. The plume passed Louisville on February 20 around 10 AM. He explained the Organics Detection System (ODS) network of 17 utilities and the use of activated carbon treatment (three stages, each providing 90% removal). - Dearing Smith reviewed communications: The first customer question via social media was on February 10; the first media briefing was on February 13. She noted misinformation on social media and emphasized the need for proactive transparency in future incidents. - Committee members raised questions: - Chair Arthur asked about the list of chemicals tested and data transparency. Bobay referred to the EPA manifest and explained the ODS instruments screen for a family of volatile chemicals, calibrated for 30-35 compounds. - Committee Member Hudson expressed concern about long-term sediment contamination from future dredging operations upstream. Bobay noted that Orsanco (Ohio River Valley Sanitation Commission) notifies utilities of dredging permits. Hudson requested a formal notification loop for extra monitoring. - Vice Chair Parker asked about the current status of the spill and carbon filtration. Bobay confirmed the spill has passed, but monitoring continues indefinitely. Carbon is filtered out through normal treatment and does not remain in finished drinking water. - Committee Member Baker requested a layman's explanation and whether the city dodged a bullet. Bobay clarified that the incident was manageable because of existing carbon treatment capabilities, and emphasized the utility's preparedness for any spill. - Chair Arthur critiqued the communication delay (10 days until first briefing) and urged more proactive outreach. Dearing Smith acknowledged the lesson learned and offered to conduct community education sessions. Key Outcomes - Resolution R-014-23 was held in committee; no action taken. - No formal votes were conducted. - The meeting adjourned at 3:50 PM. - Louisville Water Company committed to conducting an internal debrief and improving proactive communication in future emergencies.

The Equity, Community Affairs, Housing, Health, and Education Committee held a special meeting on Thursday, February 23, 2023, from 12:03 PM to 1:17 PM in the Council Chambers to conduct its 21st Annual Black History Month Program under the theme "Reaffirming Our Diverse Culture." Chair Barbara Shanklin (D-2) presided. All eight committee members were present, along with nine non-committee council members. The program honored 25 district honorees and 5 special community honorees, plus a special recognition to Edwin Ernest, Director of Metro Council Services. Consent Calendar - None. The meeting was entirely ceremonial. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was taken. Remarks were made by council members introducing their district honorees and by special guests. Black History Month Program - Call to Order & Welcome: Chair Shanklin called the meeting to order. Council President Markus Winkler welcomed attendees and thanked Chair Shanklin for starting and continuing the program for 21 years. - Invocation: Pastor Nathaniel Bishop Jr. (Forest Baptist Church, Newburgh) delivered a prayer and scripture reading. - Negro National Anthem: Deputy Chief of Staff Keisha Dorsey led the singing of "Lift Every Voice and Sing." - District Honorees (25 individuals): Caleb Howard (Legislative Assistant to Chair Shanklin) read biographies for each honoree, and the sponsoring council member presented the award. Honorees included: - District 1: Judge Jessica Green (Councilwoman Tammy Hawkins) - District 2: Derwin Ford (Chair Shanklin) - District 3: Charles McBroom (Councilman Kumar Rashad) - District 4: Shannon Floyd (Councilman Jecorey Arthur) - District 5: Theo Hamilton (Councilwoman Donna Purvis) - District 6: Deputy Mayor David James (Councilman Phillip T. Baker) - District 7: Joyce Marie Redd (Councilwoman Paula McCraney) - District 8: Ladonna Johnson (Councilwoman Cassie Chambers Armstrong – not present, bio read) - District 9: Dr. Dewey Clayton (Councilman Andrew Owen – award accepted by councilman) - District 10: Tamika Laird (Councilman Pat Mulvihill) - District 11: Percy Black (Councilman Kevin Kramer’s office) - District 12: Barbara Ayers Thompson (Councilman Rick Blackwell’s office) - District 13: Mary Spencer Owen (Councilman Dan Seum Jr.) - District 14: Yvette Norsworthy (Councilwoman Cindi Fowler) - District 15: Diane Algemani (Councilwoman Jennifer Chappell) - District 16: Patricia Ann Huggins (Councilman Scott Reed) - District 17: Dabana Dow (Council President Markus Winkler) - District 18: Tindai Karasika (Councilwoman Marilyn Parker) - District 19: Todd Moore (Councilman Anthony Piagentini’s office) - District 20: Roberto Grider (Councilman Stuart Benson) - District 21: Sonny and Annette Woodard (Councilwoman Betsy Ruhe) - District 22: Patricia Beckham (Councilman Robin Engel’s office) - District 23: Larnell Harris (Councilman Jeff Hudson) - District 24: Jonah Balance (Councilwoman Madonna Flood) - District 25: Bond Graves (Councilman Khalil Batshon) - District 26: Nina Reed (Councilman Brent Ackerson’s office) - Musical Selection: Keisha Dorsey performed "Go Down Moses," explaining its meaning as a call to be modern-day Moses figures. - Special Community Honorees (5 African American women): Chair Shanklin recognized five women who have reached leadership positions: 1. Beverly Edwards – Vice President of Residential Health Care, Episcopal Retirement Services 2. Interim Police Chief Jacqueline Gwinn-Villaroel – Louisville Metro Police Department 3. Dr. Carla Smalley Houston – Director of Radiation Oncology, UofL Health/Brown Cancer Center 4. Tracy Johnson – Brand Director, Woodford Reserve 5. Sadiqua Reynolds – CEO, Perception Institute; former President/CEO of Louisville Urban League - Special Recognition: Chair Shanklin surprised Edwin Ernest, Director of Metro Council Services, with an award, praising his tireless support of the council. - Benediction: Pastor Nathaniel Bishop Jr. closed with a prayer and blessing of the food. - Adjournment: Chair Shanklin adjourned the meeting at 1:17 PM without objection. Key Outcomes - All 30 honorees (25 district, 5 special) were publicly recognized and presented with awards. - Edwin Ernest received a special appreciation award. - Attendees were invited to a reception with food on the first floor. - No legislation was introduced, no votes were taken, and no future meetings were scheduled.