Public Meetings - Louisville, Kentucky

The Labor and Economic Development Committee met on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 3:03 PM in Council Chambers and virtually. Vice Chair Crystal Bast (R-14) presided. The committee heard a special discussion on AFSCME pay scale issues and unanimously approved five resolutions, all of which were sent to the consent calendar for the August 27 full Metro Council meeting. A quorum was present with 7 members attending; Committee Member Donna L. Purvis (D-5) was excused. Consent Calendar - R-095-26 – A resolution appropriating $140,000 for a noncompetitively negotiated contract with the Louisville Zoological Gardens for a mentor/internship program for Jefferson Community Technical College students. (Sponsor: Josie Raymond) - R-103-26 – A resolution appropriating $200,000 for a noncompetitively negotiated contract with Norton Children’s Medical Group for forensic medical services for abused and neglected children through LMPD. (Sponsor: Josie Raymond) - R-106-26 – A resolution appropriating $150,000 for a noncompetitively negotiated contract with the University of Louisville Research Foundation for wastewater monitoring by Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness. (Sponsor: Khalil Batshon) - R-107-26 – A resolution approving local incentives to KPFF, Inc. under KRS Chapter 154, Subchapter 32 for a downtown expansion creating 20 jobs with an average hourly wage of $54.76. (Sponsor: Ken Herndon) - R-109-26 – A resolution authorizing the Mayor and Economic Development to request a $1,178,295 Kentucky Product Development Initiative grant from the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority for the Louisville Riverport Authority, including local match of $117,829.50 already in the FY27 budget. (Sponsor: Jonathan Joseph) Public Comments & Testimony - Cody Jones, AFSCME Council 962 staff representative, explained that in three of five AFSCME Local 2629 contracts and the single Local 3425 contract (covering zoo, parks, correctional supervisors, and library employees), wage schedule placement is based on years in a job classification rather than years of service with Louisville Metro government. He noted that most other Metro union contracts (Teamsters, FOP, firefighters) use years of service. Jones stated that AFSCME has attempted to change this language through MOUs but has been told it would “open Pandora’s box,” despite the box being open for other unions. He provided a handout estimating annual salary differences if language were changed: approximately $124,000 for zoo, $80,000 for parks, and $204,000 total for three contracts (library estimate not yet available but likely similar to zoo’s). - Elizabeth Haigh, Louisville Free Public Library employee, testified that despite 17 years with Metro, she is paid as if she has worked only four years because of the classification-based pay structure. She stated that moving from a Teamsters contract to AFSCME reset her pay, and she is actively seeking employment outside Metro because she cannot afford to stay. - Nick Keene, Metro Parks employee, said that because of the outdated language, he must work additional overtime just to match the pay of coworkers with similar seniority. He described the language as arbitrary, illogical, and petty. - Dana Pryor, Louisville Zoo employee of 30 years, said that after taking a promotion to lead keeper, she was placed at step 4 of the wage schedule instead of step 12 (based on her years of service), while lower-classification keepers with fewer years now earn more per hour. She also noted that a memorandum of understanding grants staff covering her days off a higher rate based on years of service, costing her thousands of dollars annually and affecting her retirement. Discussion Items - AFSCME Pay Scale Issue: Committee members asked questions about the contract’s ratification process and what the council could do. Council Member Jeff Hudson (R-23) expressed sympathy but questioned the council’s role since negotiations are between the union and the executive branch. Council Member JP Lyninger (D-6) thanked the workers and noted the annual cost of fixing the issue for parks, zoo, and corrections is approximately $204,000, plus a similar amount for the library (total $327,000), which is less than 0.03% of the $1.2 billion Metro budget. He called it unacceptable to balance the budget on workers’ backs. Council Member Josie Raymond (D-10) asked whether analyses exist of Metro employees qualifying for public benefits and requested concrete proposals (e.g., MOUs) that the council could enact. Council Member Khalil Batshon (R-25) encouraged the union to negotiate harder and asked who in the administration they have been working with (Cody Jones replied: labor liaison Jeffrey Stanfield). No formal action was taken, but committee members expressed support and a willingness to advocate. - R-095-26 (Zoo Internship): Steve Taylor, assistant zoo director, said the program has been in place since 1998 and has resulted in many hires. Council Member Hudson asked why it was a sole-source contract; Taylor explained no other university has shown interest. The resolution passed by voice vote. - R-103-26 (LMPD Forensic Contract): Council Member Raymond noted Norton is the only entity in the region capable of providing the service. Lieutenant Andrew Meyer of LMPD’s Special Victims Unit was present for questions. Passed. - R-106-26 (Wastewater Monitoring): Connie Mendel, Chief Health Strategist for Public Health and Wellness, said the University of Louisville is the only qualified entity in the region; results are available within 48 hours. Council Member Hudson asked about other cities using the same lab; Mendel said she could check. Passed. - R-107-26 (KPFF Incentives): Ron Burse of One Louisville explained the company completed its expansion and is requesting final approval for a 1% wage assessment incentive. Hudson deferred his question after losing his screen. Passed. - R-109-26 (Riverport Grant): Katie Littman, Deputy Director of Economic Development, said the grant will rehabilitate two loop railroad tracks to increase capacity. Miguel Zamora, Executive Vice President of the Riverport Authority, noted other infrastructure improvements (e.g., crane upgrades funded by state grants) are ongoing. Council Member Batshon praised the work. Passed. Key Outcomes - All five resolutions (R-095-26, R-103-26, R-106-26, R-107-26, R-109-26) were moved by Council Member Hudson, seconded by Council Member Batshon or Lyninger, and approved unanimously by voice vote. They were placed on the consent calendar for the August 27 Metro Council meeting. - The committee took no formal vote on the AFSCME pay scale issue but heard extensive testimony. Several members committed to following up with the administration and the union to explore potential MOUs or legislative action. Council Member Lyninger suggested the cost was minimal relative to the budget. The meeting adjourned at 3:49 PM.

The Planning and Zoning Committee met at 1:03 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in Council Chambers/virtually, with seven members present and one excused. The meeting adjourned at 1:42 p.m. The committee considered two pending ordinances: a detailed district development plan for Old Bardstown Road and a Land Development Code amendment on package liquor stores. The first item was postponed; the second was amended and recommended for approval on a 7-0 vote. Both ordinances have a required action date of February 13, 2027. Discussion Items - O-225-26 — Detailed District Development Plan, 8803/8805/8807 Old Bardstown Road (Case 26DDP0005): Julia Williams of the Office of Planning said the 7.02-acre site is partially vacant and partially residential and would be developed for commercial and office uses under a revised detailed district development plan; it is zoned OR-1 and C-1. She reported the Planning Commission recommended approval by a 10-0 vote on July 16, 2026. Chair Andrew Owen said the district council member requested postponement while working through binding elements with the developer. Committee Member Stuart Benson raised concerns about turn lanes and future traffic; no direct response was provided. A motion to postpone, made by Committee Member Jeff Hudson and seconded by Committee Member Khalil Batshon, carried by voice vote. - O-227-26 — Land Development Code Amendment Regarding Package Liquor Stores (Case 26-LDC-0003): Joe Haberman of the Office of Planning presented a staff proposal responding to Council Resolution R-134-25. He explained that package liquor stores are currently permitted by right in most commercial zones with no separation requirement or operating standards. The proposal defines a package liquor store, adds a 1,000-foot parcel-to-parcel separation from certain sensitive uses, provides conditional-use relief through the Board of Zoning Adjustment for sites that do not meet the standards, exempts accessory sales at distilleries and wineries, and includes an exception for package liquor stores located with grocery stores. Staff modeled the change on the retail tobacco ordinance and reviewed practices in Des Moines and Indianapolis. The Planning Commission recommended approval on July 16, 2026, by a 6-3 vote. During discussion, Chair Owen asked staff to confirm that the new use-based separation requirement avoids the constitutional problems of an earlier license-based separation rule; Laura Ferguson of the Jefferson County Attorney's Office explained the prior ABC licensing case and why a uniform, metro-wide land-use standard is on firmer footing. Committee Member Khalil Batshon argued that the grocery-store exception protects food-desert neighborhoods and prevents large grocery stores with attached spirit shops from being blocked by the new standards. Committee Member Josie Raymond asked whether mapping had been done to show how many sites would be affected; Haberman said that analysis was not done for this ordinance but had been done for the retail tobacco ordinance. Committee Member Betsy Ruhe questioned the 40,000-square-foot threshold and how small grocers would seek relief. Committee Member Jeff Hudson supported the code change and recounted a liquor store denial in his district that was overturned on appeal to the state. Key Outcomes - O-225-26: Postponed by voice vote to the next Planning and Zoning Committee meeting; no recommendation was made. - O-227-26: The committee adopted two amendments by voice vote. First, it adopted a second-tier amendment adding "8. Religious Building" back to the list of protected uses. Second, it adopted the amended grocery exception to read: "A new Package Liquor Store is exempt from the above separation requirement if located on the same lot or development site as a Grocery Store exceeding 40,000 square feet." The committee then voted 7-0 (Owen, Parrish-Wright, Raymond, Benson, Ruhe, Hudson, and Batshon) to recommend approval of O-227-26 as amended and sent it to Old Business for the August 27, 2026 Metro Council meeting.

The Government Oversight/Audit and Appointments Committee met on August 18, 2026, at 5:08 PM in Council Chambers and virtually. Chair Donna Purvis presided with 9 members present (one excused). The committee considered five appointments and held a special discussion on housing accountability. Two pending legislation items remained held. Consent Calendar - Appointment of Danita Cheatham to the Deputy Sheriff Merit Board (term expires June 13, 2027) – recommended for approval by voice vote. - Appointment of Renesha Martin to the Human Relations Advocacy Board (term expires September 30, 2027) and Reappointment of Yvonne Jones to the same board (term expires September 30, 2029) – considered together and recommended for approval by voice vote. - Appointment of Daniel Corrie Shull to the Kentuckiana Works – Greater Louisville Workforce Development Board (term expires June 30, 2029) – recommended for approval by voice vote. - Appointment of Dr. Kaveh Zamanian to the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau Board (term expires August 16, 2029) – recommended for approval by voice vote. Discussion Items - Housing Accountability (ID 26-0646): Chair Purvis raised constituent complaints about contractors used for city-funded home repair programs, citing a case where a home was allegedly left in worse condition. She questioned contractor vetting, work monitoring, payment processes, and accountability. Jeff O’Brien (Economic Development), Laura Grabowski (Housing and Community Development), and Donald Robinson (Codes & Regulations) responded. They explained that historically, Metro contracted directly with vetted private contractors, but the program is shifting to a subrecipient model using nonprofit partners like New Directions Housing and Habitat for Humanity. They stated that over the past three years, approximately 300 home repair cases were handled, with only five formal complaints reaching the Office of Client Services. Inspectors take before and after photos, and final inspections occur before payment. In unresolved disputes, cases may be referred to Metro Risk Management. Committee Member Hawkins praised the responsiveness of codes staff and sought clarification on contractor oversight and complaint resolution pathways. - Code Enforcement Procedure: Councilman Piagentini inquired about procedures for entering rental properties, emphasizing constitutional due process. Director Robinson outlined the process: officers attempt contact, issue violation notices, and use plain-view observations. If no contact is made, officers post notices and return. Tenants can grant access, but citations are issued to property owners. Piagentini expressed support for respecting property rights. - Rental Property Inspection Statistics: Hawkins asked about Section 8 rental inspection deficiencies. Robinson reported that from January 1 to July 31, 2026, codes attempted 4,140 initial occupancy inspections: 1,638 failed, 2,031 passed. Many failures were due to new smoke detector requirements (one per room per HUD's Inspire system). Life-safety issues must be corrected within 48 hours; minor items within 30 days. Non-compliance is referred to LMHA for further action. Robinson did not have average deficiency counts per rental property on hand but offered to provide them. Key Outcomes - O-009-26 (SAFE Law – police department policies) remained held in committee. - O-161-26 (Debt Service Adjustment) remained held in committee per request of sponsors Reed and Piagentini. - All five appointments were recommended for approval and will be placed on the Consent Calendar for the Metro Council meeting on August 27, 2026. - No formal action was taken on housing accountability, but the committee directed staff to continue addressing contractor complaints and improve communication with homeowners and council offices. - The meeting was adjourned at 5:58 PM.

On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 4:50 PM, the Louisville Metro Public Works Committee met to receive an update on major capital projects and to consider a resolution declaring surplus property. The meeting was chaired by Jeff Hudson (R-23) with seven other members present, three participating virtually. All pending appointments to the Complete Streets Coalition were held without discussion. Consent Calendar - R-101-26: A resolution declaring a portion of real property at 3705 Stone Lakes Drive as surplus and authorizing its transfer. The property was acquired for the Plantside Drive extension but is no longer needed. The committee voted by voice to recommend approval, sending it to the full Council's consent calendar. Discussion Items - Major Capital Projects Update (ID 26-1143): Wesley Sydnor, Executive Director of Public Works, presented an overview of more than 60 federally funded projects totaling over $200 million. Key completed projects included safety improvements on East Market Street (construction mid-2024 to February 2026), Main Street and Story Avenue (March to August 2025), River Road corridor enhancements (completed spring 2026), and a TARC transit hub at Muhammad Ali Boulevard and 7th/8th Streets. Upcoming projects highlighted were the Reimagine 9th Street project (a $20 million federal RAISE grant, final design expected by late October 2026), widening River Road (a 30+ year proposal), and the Safe Streets for All program (construction anticipated late 2027). Discussion also covered locally funded projects such as the Aiken Road roundabout ($1.5 million, completion early November 2026), Hall Place connectivity, and sidewalk projects on US 42 and Hubbard's Lane. Challenges noted included lengthy federal/state funding processes, cost volatility, and coordination with KYTC and other agencies. - Committee Questions: Members raised several topics: - Kevin Bratcher asked about the Cooper Chapel Phase III project (utility work underway after a 5–8 year right-of-way process) and praised Public Works' responsiveness on weed/mowing issues. - Ken Herndon advocated for converting all urban streets to two-way, noting piecemeal conversions on 7th and 8th Streets due to the TARC network redesign. - Jennifer Chappell inquired about the Reimagine 9th Street final design timeline (October 2026) and the status of the Preston Corridor Plan (draft still online with a blank mayor's letter; challenges with federal grant criteria favoring auto-centric projects). - Josie Raymond asked about the likelihood of additional traffic calming projects, noting that the current Safe Streets for All slate ($21 million) likely requires another major federal grant. - Ben Reno-Weber commended coordination efforts and asked about inter-agency collaboration; Sydnor highlighted the creation of a utility coordinator position and bi-monthly meetings with KYTC and FHWA. - Crystal Bast asked about the Greenwood Road project (state road, 2027 timeline; to follow up with KYTC). - Stuart Benson requested a list of problem intersections in his district to proactively address issues before they worsen. - Jeff Hudson asked about data to prove completed projects improve safety; Sydnor referenced a Vision Zero dashboard tracking accident reports before and after projects. Key Outcomes - Resolution R-101-26 was recommended for approval by voice vote and sent to the consent calendar for the August 27, 2026 Metro Council meeting. - All 12 appointments and reappointments to the Complete Streets Coalition (items 3–14) were held in committee, with no action taken. - The committee received the capital projects update as information; no formal vote was taken.

The Louisville Metro Council held its regular meeting on August 13, 2026, at 6:19 PM, with 25 members present and one excused. The meeting featured public comments on massage therapy licensing, community violence, and data centers, followed by approval of a consent calendar and contentious debate on a gas franchise renewal and a temporary moratorium on data centers. The meeting adjourned at 9:05 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (24-0) items 20 through 50, including ordinances appropriating Neighborhood Development Funds for tree maintenance, park activities, boardwalk replacement, graffiti removal, budget transfers, and a resolution of intent for general obligation bonds. Also approved were appointments to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, Police Merit Board, Air Pollution Control District, and other boards. Public Comments & Testimony - Gabrielle Bowlds (licensed massage therapist, employee at McCoach Holistic Massage) expressed concern that the massage licensing ordinance would put her small business at risk of closing due to compliance costs, asking for amendments to support small businesses. - Richard Whitlock Jr. (Louisville Peace Project) urged the council to adopt a zip code-based violence prevention model, citing over 1,300 murders from 2016-2025 and the need for community-led public health approaches. - Shae Neutz (solo massage practitioner in District 8) spoke against the ordinance’s requirements for unlocked doors and inspections, calling them disrespectful and harmful to clients, and asked for amendments. - Laura Watkins (owner of Pure Salon Spa in District 22) expressed support for the ordinance’s intent but worried about unintended costs for small businesses employing one massage therapist, noting additional licensing, fees, and recordkeeping. - Larry Mitchum (Celebrate Recovery Fairdale) thanked the council for past support and presented attendance growth from 25 in 2017 to about 250 weekly participants, requesting continued funding. - Lee Maddox shared a personal story of reversing diabetes through lifestyle changes and urged council to endorse a plant-based treaty. - Danielle Ray and Sauda Brown spoke passionately against hyperscale data centers, alleging environmental racism, pollution, and lack of transparency, demanding a one-year moratorium without loopholes and accusing some officials of corruption. Discussion Items - O-188-26 – LG&E Gas Franchise Renewal: After a motion to return to the table passed, a motion to recommit failed 8-16. Council members debated municipalization and bidding options, with Council President Ackerson arguing that changing the franchise in two weeks was unrealistic. The ordinance ultimately passed 18-3-4. - O-209-26 – Budget Reallocation: Passed 25-0 after a technical correction to the fiscal year. - O-194-26 – Feed Louisville NDF: Amended from $4,250 to $9,750 with additional contributions from multiple districts, passed 23-0. - O-195-26 – Girl Scouts Via Colori Festival NDF: Amended from $1,500 to $3,300, passed 23-0. - O-202-26 – Bridge Kids International African Heritage Festival NDF: Amended from $4,000 to $6,550, with date changed to October 16-17, passed 24-0. - O-207-26 – Celebrate Recovery NDF: Amended from $12,750 to $22,000 with contributions from 14 districts, passed 25-0. - NDF080526FSH15 – Family Scholar House NDF: Amended from $1,250 to $3,250, approved by voice vote. - O-135-26 – Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers: The council adopted an amendment to close a loophole regarding building permits for repurposed structures (voice vote). An amendment to extend the moratorium from 180 to 365 days failed 10-15 after extensive debate. Council members expressed positions: some supported a longer pause for study and community input, while others argued six months was sufficient and that the goal was to develop regulations. The final amended ordinance passed 24-1. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: All items approved 24-0. - O-188-26 (LG&E Franchise): Passed 18-3-4, authorizing renewal of the gas franchise agreement. - O-209-26 (Budget Reallocation): Passed 25-0. - O-194-26 (Feed Louisville): Passed 23-0 after amendment to $9,750. - O-195-26 (Girl Scouts): Passed 23-0 after amendment to $3,300. - O-202-26 (Bridge Kids International): Passed 24-0 after amendment to $6,550 and date change. - O-207-26 (Celebrate Recovery): Passed 25-0 after amendment to $22,000. - NDF080526FSH15 (Family Scholar House): Approved by voice vote after amendment to $3,250. - O-135-26 (Data Center Moratorium): Passed 24-1 after amendment to close loophole; 365-day extension rejected 10-15. The moratorium is for 180 days on rezoning, conditional use permits, and certain development plans for telecommunication hotels and data centers, plus a building permit moratorium for repurposed structures. - New Business: Items 59-81 were read for the first time and assigned to committees (Appropriations, Budget, Labor and Economic Development, Planning and Zoning, Public Works).

The Louisville Metro Council's Committee on Committees met on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 4:03 p.m. in Council Chambers and via video teleconference, pursuant to KRS 61.826 and Council Rule 5A. Council President Brent Ackerson (D-26) called the meeting to order; a quorum was present. Committee Member Tammy Hawkins (D-1) was excused, while Jennifer Chappell (D-15) and Khalil Batshon (R-25) attended virtually. The committee referred legislation to standing committees, approved funding to resume hard-bound archiving of legislation, and recommended a policy amendment on image usage and mailings to the full Council. New Business – Committee Assignments - Council President Ackerson read the committee assignments; no changes were requested. - Appropriations Committee: O-204-26 ($40,000 District 16 Neighborhood Development Funds (NDF) to the City of Prospect for a Putney Pond boardwalk); O-211-26 ($10,000 combined NDF to South Louisville Community Ministries for the Taste of South Louisville fundraiser); O-215-26 ($10,000 District 6 NDF for Central Louisville Community Ministries' low-income LG&E bill assistance); O-219-26 ($5,440 District 2 NDF via Brightside for landscaping at three rights-of-way at Shepherdsville and Newburg Roads); O-220-26 ($6,580 District 15 NDF via Brightside for landscaping five medians); O-221-26 ($2,000 District 14 NDF for the Southwest Community Festival); O-223-26 ($7,410 District 23 NDF for Highview fall/holiday events and website maintenance); O-224-26 ($9,000 combined NDF for the Boots, Badges, and Bids event). - Budget Committee: O-213-26 ($35,000 District 3 NDF to Council general operations); O-222-26 ($136,336.49 from unallocated Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grants to Emergency Services for the USDA streambank stabilization project); O-226-26 (transferring/consolidating funds within loan-fund projects for administration); O-231-26 ($83,555.70 transferred from two existing projects to establish two new District 15 projects); O-232-26 (renaming three capital project titles); O-233-26 ($70,000 District 9 capital infrastructure funds to District 9 NDF); O-234-26 ($50,000 District 9 NDF to Council general operations); R-110-26 (authorizing acceptance of up to $13,470,000 in federal appropriations). - Government Oversight/Audit and Appointments: ID 26-1042 (Danita Cheatham, Deputy Sheriff Merit Board); ID 26-1043 (Renesha Martin new appointment and Yvonne Jones reappointment, Human Relations Advocacy Board); ID 26-1044 (Daniel Corrie Shull, Kentuckiana Works/Greater Louisville Workforce Development Board); ID 26-1046 (Dr. Kaveh Zamanian, Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau). - Labor and Economic Development: R-103-26 ($200,000 for Norton Children's Medical Group forensic medical services for abused and neglected children for Louisville Metro Police Department); R-106-26 ($150,000 for University of Louisville Research Foundation wastewater monitoring); R-107-26 (local incentives to KPFF, Inc. under KRS Chapter 154, Subchapter 32); R-109-26 ($1,178,295 Kentucky Product Development Initiative grant request for the Louisville Riverport Authority). - Planning and Zoning: O-225-26 (Detailed District Development Plan for 8803, 8805, and 8807 Old Bardstown Road, about 7.02 acres, Case 26DDP0005); O-227-26 (Land Development Code amendment regarding package liquor stores, Case 26-LDC-0003). - Public Works: R-101-26 (declaring property at 3705 Stone Lakes Drive surplus and authorizing its transfer). Pending Legislation – R-096-26: Image Usage and Approval of Mailings - R-096-26, sponsored by Council President Ackerson, would amend Metro Council Policies and Procedures regarding image usage and approval of mailings. Discussion explained that Section 1 restores language that had been inadvertently removed from the policies, and Section 2 codifies guidance on using images in newsletters: use Metro-licensed images, images created by Metro offices or employees, or images with the owner's express permission, with a sample permission form attached. - Council Member Piagentini asked whether images produced by other Metro agencies or the mayor's office can be reposted without additional permission. Hollie Hopkins of the Jefferson County Attorney's Office and Council President Ackerson said Metro-owned images are permissible, and that relying on another Metro agency's verification would be a defense if challenged; Ackerson said he would confirm details by Thursday, August 13, 2026. - A motion by Piagentini, seconded by Ackerson, to recommend approval carried by voice vote. The resolution was placed on the Consent Calendar for the August 13, 2026 Metro Council meeting. Special Discussion – ID 26-0745: Updating Bound Hard Copies of Legislation - Committee Member Piagentini presented ID 26-0745, explaining that the Clerk's Office used to maintain hard-bound volumes of ordinances and resolutions but stopped in 2013. The Clerk's Office can produce the books; the main cost is materials. - Beth Stenberg, Metro Council Financial Analyst, said the cost is approximately $10,475 for 50 books, which would bring the archive current from 2014 through 2025. She recommended using the restricted admin account; a second funding source from Metro TV was no longer available. - Piagentini recommended approving the catch-up purchase and planning about $500 per year in the Clerk's budget going forward. A motion by Piagentini, seconded by Batshon, to approve the funding carried by voice vote with no opposition. Key Outcomes - No objections were raised to the committee assignments; all listed legislation was referred to the assigned committees. - The committee approved approximately $10,475 for 50 hard-bound volumes, updating the library from 2014 through 2025. - R-096-26 was recommended for approval and sent to the Consent Calendar. - The meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m. Note: The transcript indicates that R-096-26 was discussed before the special discussion on bound books, while the minutes list the special discussion before pending legislation.

On August 6, 2026, at 3:03 PM, the Louisville Metro Parks and Sustainability Committee met in Council Chambers and virtually. All six committee members were present: Chair Khalil Batshon (R-25), Vice Chair Paula McCraney (I-7), and members Crystal Bast (R-14), Jennifer Chappell (D-15), Anthony Piagentini (R-19), and Betsy Ruhe (D-21). The committee considered three agenda items: one ordinance held in committee, one resolution approved, and one resolution tabled for further discussion. Consent Calendar - O-108-26 (Foraging Ordinance): This item remained held in committee. - R-091-26 (Iroquois Park Playground Rubber Mulch Grant): The committee voted to recommend approval and send the resolution to the Consent Calendar, where it will be heard at the Metro Council meeting on August 13, 2026. Discussion Items - R-091-26 – Grant Acceptance for Iroquois Park Playground Rubber Mulch Project: Jason Canuel, Director of Louisville Parks and Recreation, presented the grant of $75,000 from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, Department for Environmental Protection. The grant funds a poured-in-place rubber surface for the playground at Iroquois Park, using Kentucky-sourced recycled rubber. Committee members Piagentini, Batshon, and Ruhe asked about the grant's scope and the material's safety (head impact attenuation). The motion to recommend approval, made by Councilman Piagentini and seconded by Councilwoman Bast, passed by voice vote. - R-142-25 – Urban Forest Master Plan Resolution: Michelle King, Executive Director of Louisville Parks and Recreation, and Mesude Ozyurekoglu, Assistant Director of Urban Forestry, presented the much-anticipated financial impact statement. The total estimated cost for full implementation of seven Metro government actions was $13.41 million, comprising $5.44 million in initial equipment costs and $7.82 million in new recurring annual costs (on top of $2.1 million in existing recurring costs). The bulk of the cost came from Action 1.3: Metro government taking over full care and management of street trees (currently the responsibility of adjacent property owners). Committee members questioned the sustainability of the plan given $179 million in overall parks deferred maintenance. Councilman Piagentini suggested a phased approach and a dedicated hearing. Councilwoman Bast noted current staffing cannot keep up with existing tree maintenance. Cindy Sullivan, CEO of Trees Louisville, reported that 18 of the 33 plan actions are already being implemented by various community organizations. The committee voted to return the resolution to the table and then postpone it (table) by voice vote, scheduling a future meeting for detailed discussion. Key Outcomes - O-108-26 remains held in committee. - R-091-26 was recommended for approval and sent to the Consent Calendar for the August 13, 2026 Metro Council meeting. - R-142-25 was tabled (postponed) by voice vote, with plans for a dedicated committee hearing to further explore phased implementation and clarify resolution language.

The Budget Committee met on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 4:34 PM in Council Chambers/Virtual. Chair Kevin Kramer presided. All nine present members voted unanimously on all items (with Vice Chair Winkler excused). The meeting adjourned at 4:51 PM. Discussion Items 1. O-216-26 – Ordinance to transfer $20,000 from District 7 Neighborhood Development Fund to Council General Operations for District 7. Council Member Paula McCraney (I-7) requested the transfer to cover part-time staff costs. Unanimously recommended for approval and sent to Consent Calendar. 2. O-209-26 – Ordinance to reallocate funds between various departments. Chair Kramer added as co-sponsor. An amendment was introduced to carry forward unexpended FY2025-2026 lawn maintenance funds for District 1 residents. The amendment passed by voice vote. The amended ordinance was unanimously recommended for approval and sent to Old Business (due to amendment). 3. O-212-26 – Ordinance to transfer $5,000 from District 11 Neighborhood Development Fund to Council General Operations. Chair Kramer explained he needed the funds for travel expenses related to his role on the Sister Cities International board. Unanimously recommended for approval and sent to Consent Calendar. 4. O-217-26 – Ordinance to transfer $60,000 from District 3 Capital Infrastructure Fund to District 3 Neighborhood Development Fund. Council Member Shameka Parrish-Wright (D-3) cited high needs in her district and end-of-year activities. Unanimously recommended for approval and sent to Consent Calendar. 5. R-092-26 – Resolution of official intent to finance capital projects via general obligation bonds. Angela Dunn (OMB) explained it is routine for the FY27 bond issuance. Unanimously recommended for approval by voice vote and sent to Consent Calendar. 6. R-097-26 – Resolution authorizing the Mayor to accept up to $107,250,000 from the Kentucky Department for Local Government for various projects. Seth Drake (Mayor's Office) listed projects including downtown infrastructure, Oak Street and Fourth Corridor, Cedar Creek, zoo maintenance, and a first responders driving track. Council Member Piagentini expressed appreciation for state investment. Unanimously recommended for approval by voice vote and sent to Consent Calendar. Key Outcomes - All six items were approved unanimously (9-0, with Winkler excused). - O-209-26 was amended and moved to Old Business for full Council consideration on August 13, 2026. - The remaining five items were sent to the Consent Calendar for the August 13 Metro Council meeting.

The Louisville Metro Appropriations Committee met on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 3:00 PM in Council Chambers (hybrid virtual). Chair Jonathan "JJ" Joseph presided with a quorum of five members present (Vice Chair Marilyn Parker, Committee Members Ken Herndon, JP Lyninger, Dan Seum Jr.), while Barbara Shanklin and Markus Winkler were excused. The committee approved all 26 agenda items, including several ordinances and neighborhood development fund (NDF) appropriations, many with amendments to increase funding or add contributing districts. The meeting adjourned at 3:32 PM. Discussion Items - O-194-26 (Feed Louisville, Inc.): Original appropriation of $4,250 was amended to $9,750, with contributions from multiple districts (2, 3, 9, 15, 21, 1, 10, 17, 20, 13, 14, 24). Ben Harlan (District 3 Legislative Assistant) and Council Member Herndon spoke. The ordinance was recommended for approval and sent to Old Business. (Vote: 5-0) - NDF080526TO05 & NDF080526TO05a (Theta Omega, Inc.): Two appropriations—$5,000 for a community health fair and backpack giveaway (July 18, 2026) and $2,000 for school workshops (June 1–Dec 30, 2026). Both approved by voice vote. Carmen Washington (District 5 Legislative Assistant) spoke. The health fair event had already occurred; late submission was acknowledged. - NDF080526MP05 (Shawnee Golf Course Centennial): $5,000 to Metro Parks for a July 31, 2026 celebration. Approved by voice vote. - CIF080526PW05a, b, c (District 5 Sidewalk Repairs): Three capital infrastructure appropriations totaling $139,510 ($36,070, $41,800, $61,640) to repair 26 sidewalk segments (8, 6, and 12 locations) addressing a backlog from 2021. All approved by voice vote. - O-195-26 (Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana – Via Colori Festival): Original $1,500 amended to $3,300 with additional contributions from Districts 3, 2, and 15. Regina Garr (District 9 Legislative Assistant) noted the festival will be held Oct 24–25, 2026 at Waterfront Park's Big Four Bridge. Sent to Old Business. (Vote: 5-0) - O-206-26 (Graffiti Abatement): $19,250 ($9,625 each from Districts 8 and 9) to Codes and Regulations for graffiti removal identified by the Highland Commerce Guild. Sent to Consent Calendar. (Vote: 5-0) - NDF080526BS09 (Heart of St. Matthews Beautification): $5,000 to Brightside, Inc. Approved by voice vote. - NDF080526MP09 (Lady Bird Johnson Land Appraisal): $3,000 to Chapman Appraisals LLC to assess land adjacent to Seneca Park, with KYTC agreeing to deed parcels to Metro. Council Member Lyninger asked for details. Approved by voice vote. - NDF080526LMPDm (National Night Out): $1,000 ($500 each from Districts 8 and 9) to LMPD 5th Division for food and vendor costs. Approved by voice vote. - O-203-26 (Louisville Nature Center Boardwalk): $6,500 ($4,000 from District 10, $2,000 from District 8, $500 from District 15) for boardwalk replacement in Beargrass Creek State Nature Preserve. Justin Soforo (District 10 Legislative Assistant) spoke. Sent to Consent Calendar. (Vote: 5-0) - NDF080526MP10 (Tennis Equipment): $1,997.24 for 55 tennis rackets and 195 tennis balls to be retained by Metro Parks for public use. Approved by voice vote. - NDF080526MP15 & NDF080526PW15 (Dainty Events): Two appropriations for the 56th Annual World Championship Dainty (July 27, 2026) and its fundraiser (July 25): $840 to Metro Parks for picnic tables/portable toilets, and $81.32 to Public Works for trash/recycling boxes. Both approved by voice vote. Discussion included the nature of the Dainty event (street festival benefiting Little Sisters of the Poor) and the late submission due to waiting for invoices. - NDF080526FSH15 (Family Scholar House – Pack a Backpack Bash): Original $750 from District 15 was amended to $1,250 by adding $500 from District 21. Amy Luckett (District 15 Legislative Assistant) spoke. Sent to Old Business. (Voice vote) - CIF080526PW16 (Sidewalk Repair, 10908 Kings Crown Dr.): $5,000 to Public Works. Jared Townes (District 16 Legislative Assistant) noted repair of a tree-root-damaged sidewalk. Approved by voice vote. - CIF072226PW18 (Sidewalk Drainage and New Sidewalk, Lowe Road): $60,000 from District 18 capital infrastructure funds for drainage at 4704 Lowe Road and new sidewalk at 4408 Lowe Road. Vice Chair Parker spoke. Approved by voice vote. - CIF080526PW02 (New Curb, Kilmer Blvd. & East Indian Trail): $10,000 to Public Works to install a curb at the median to deter vehicle damage. Christina Scotland (Council Financial Analyst) spoke on behalf of District 2. Approved by voice vote. - O-200-26 (Tree Maintenance, District 4): $10,000 to 502 Tree and Landscape via Brightside, Inc. Council Member Herndon spoke. Sent to Consent Calendar. (Vote: 5-0) - O-201-26 (District 4 Park Activities Account): $20,000 to Metro Parks for community events. Council Member Herndon spoke. Sent to Consent Calendar. (Vote: 5-0) - CIF080526PW04 (Honorary Street Sign, Deacon James and Annette Turner): $188 for fabrication and installation at 32nd and West Broadway. Council Member Herndon spoke. Approved by voice vote. - O-202-26 (Bridge Kids International – African Heritage Festival): Original $4,000 from District 6 was amended to $6,550 with additional contributions from Districts 3, 21, and 2. Dates amended to August 21-22 and October 16-17, 2026. Council Member Lyninger spoke. Sent to Old Business. (Vote: 5-0) - O-207-26 (Celebrate Recovery Fairdale Corporation): Original $12,500 was amended to $22,000 after multiple additions (including $250 from District 24 via motion). Council Member Seum spoke, noting the program serves 200-250 people every Friday. Sent to Old Business. (Vote: 5-0) - CIF080526PW17 (Enhanced Stop Signs, Goose Creek Rd. & Blossom Ln.): $3,000 from District 17 capital infrastructure funds for two LED-enhanced stop signs to address documented crashes. Kip Eatherly (District 17 Legislative Assistant) spoke. Approved by voice vote. Key Outcomes - All 26 items were approved, either by voice vote or roll call (5-0). - Several ordinances were amended to increase total funding and add contributing districts. - Items sent to Old Business (for full Council on Aug 13): O-194-26, O-195-26, O-202-26, O-207-26, NDF080526FSH15. - Items sent to Consent Calendar (for full Council on Aug 13): O-206-26, O-203-26, O-200-26, O-201-26. - Chair Joseph reminded committee members to submit NDF requests proactively (before events) rather than retroactively, and noted he would send a follow-up email. - The meeting adjourned at 3:32 PM without objection.