Public Meetings - Louisville, Kentucky

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.

The Louisville Metro Public Safety Committee met on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, in Council Chambers/virtually, convening at 4:01 p.m. and adjourning at 5:10 p.m. Chair Dan Seum Jr. established a quorum with seven members present: Seum, Tammy Hawkins, Jonathan Joseph, Scott Reed, Betsy Ruhe, Kevin Bratcher, and Ginny Mulvey-Woolridge; Shameka Parrish-Wright, Andrew Owen, and Markus Winkler were excused. Council Member Jennifer Chappell (D-15) also attended. Reed, Bratcher, and Mulvey-Woolridge participated virtually. The agenda included a special LMPD staffing study update and consideration of O-210-26. Note: The action summary lists Mulvey-Woolridge as present at roll call but lists her excused for the O-210-26 vote. Special Discussion: LMPD Traffic Stop Data and Staffing Study Chief Paul Humphrey first addressed a recent Metro Office of Inspector General letter/report concerning LMPD traffic stops at the chair's request. He said Sigma Squared produced live dashboards rather than a written report, and LMPD did not renew the $350,000 contract with Sigma Squared because an existing vendor could reproduce the data more cheaply. - Chief Humphrey reported that, after controlling for similar circumstances, Black motorists were 66% more likely to be searched after a stop than white motorists, and LMPD was 11% less likely to find contraband in discretionary searches of Black people than of white people. He described the overall discretionary-search hit rate as about 58%, compared with an expert expectation of about 25% mentioned in news coverage. - He said LMPD stopped about 37,000 motorists last year: 47% white and 45% Black, a disparity similar to previous studies. He attributed part of the disparity to broader societal disparities and said the focus should be on reducing the 11% gap through training, audits, and supervision. - Violent-crime context: from 2016 to 2025, more than 5,000 people were shot or killed in Louisville, with over 1,600 killed. Shootings and homicides are down 54% since the 2021 peak and 32% since 2023. During 2020-2022, there were averages of 123 Black homicide victims and 428 Black nonfatal shooting victims per year; continuing that average into 2025 would have meant 44 additional Black homicide victims and 238 additional Black nonfatal shooting victims. - Deputy Chief Emily McKinley said LMPD's audit unit reviewed nearly 1,500 body-worn camera videos of traffic stops last year, using a scorecard and escalating flags to supervision or professional standards. She also noted recruit training includes visits to the Holocaust Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. - Staffing update: LMPD has 1,013 sworn officers and 61 recruits. The staffing study recommends 1,136 sworn officers and 430 patrol officers; current patrol staffing is 396. Chief Humphrey said LMPD's historical allotted manpower is 1,228, leaving about 115 officers short under the study and more than 200 short under historical norms. - Assistant Chief Corey Robinson explained the study's 542-officer figure for divisions includes detectives and specialized assignments, not only beat officers. Bureau breakdown cited by staff included 18 in admin/support, 163 in accountability/improvement, 19 in audits/training/wellness/performance, and 13 in special investigations/PIU. - Committee Member Ruhe asked how stop data is collected and analyzed; LMPD described citizen stop forms capturing demographics, stop reason, search type/reason, canine use, tinted windows, vehicle/passenger searches, and integration of that records-management data with Sigma Squared for analysis. - Council Member Chappell noted the report reached her inbox at 10:51 p.m. the prior night and was roughly 300 pages; she said LMPD received it in late April and the chief apologized for council not receiving it sooner. She cited the report's findings that patrol officers spend 40.7% of total duty time on patrol against a 40-45% target, and that a sexual assault case requiring about 65 hours of proper tasks averaged only 26.6 hours. She also noted the report says the office of the chief should have 11 fewer positions, and she encouraged Metro Council to read the report and hold LMPD accountable for aligning staffing. - Committee Member Mulvey-Woolridge asked for top takeaways and ongoing transparency; Committee Member Joseph asked about 2026 crime projections and traffic enforcement staffing; Committee Member Bratcher expressed concern that suburban areas like Fern Creek lack visible patrol presence and wanted more traffic stops in his district, while acknowledging the department's historical racial issues. Chair Seum asked about a WDRB report on pullover rates; Chief Humphrey said he had not read or watched it and argued the data lacked context. - On license plate readers, Deputy Chief McKinley said plate data is retained 30 days on a rotating basis, while officer searches are logged indefinitely with a required report number and reason. She cited examples including solving homicides and locating a missing elderly man with Alzheimer's disease. Pending Legislation: O-210-26 The committee considered an ordinance amending Chapter 51 of the Louisville Metro Code of Ordinances regarding licensing fees. Sponsor Dan Seum Jr. said the 2025 amendment increased waste hauler licensing fees from $100 to $500, and this ordinance removes a conflicting fee section dealing with waste disposal facilities. Wes Sydnor, Executive Director of Louisville Metro Public Works, said the fees support an inventory of licensed waste haulers and help enforce illegal dumping rules. Vice Chair Hawkins moved to recommend approval, seconded by Committee Member Ruhe. The motion carried 6-0 with Seum, Hawkins, Joseph, Reed, Ruhe, and Bratcher voting yes; Parrish-Wright, Owen, Winkler, and Mulvey-Woolridge were excused. The ordinance was sent to the Consent Calendar for the Metro Council meeting on August 13, 2026. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken on the traffic-stop data and staffing study updates; the discussion was informational. - O-210-26 was recommended for approval and sent to the Consent Calendar, with final council consideration scheduled for August 13, 2026. - The next Public Safety Committee meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

The Planning and Zoning Committee met on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 1:04 PM in Council Chambers, with Chair Andrew Owen presiding. The meeting was conducted via video teleconference and adjourned at 1:28 PM. The committee considered four pending ordinances, including three street closure and binding element amendments that advanced to the consent calendar, and a temporary moratorium on data center applications that passed with amendment and was sent to old business. Consent Calendar - O-197-26 (Case No. 26AMEND0002): Amendment to binding elements for 908 S. English Station Road to allow short-term rental of the existing north building until construction of a mini storage facility. The Planning Commission recommended approval (8-0). Chair Owen relayed confirmation from Councilman Kramer's office that the short-term rental use would cease once the storage building is operational. The committee voted unanimously (8-0) to recommend approval for the consent calendar. - O-198-26 (Case No. 26STRCLOSURE0010): Closure of an unnamed alley near W. Breckinridge Street and S. 8th Street (approximately 5,500 sq. ft., zoned M2). The Planning Commission recommended approval (10-0). Vice Chair Reed questioned why the closure did not automatically proceed to consent per prior rule changes; the County Attorney clarified the rule applies only to zoning recommendations. The committee voted unanimously (8-0) to recommend approval for the consent calendar. - O-199-26 (Case No. 26STRCLOSURE0017): Closure of Mermaid Lane (approximately 1.165 acres, adjacent to Ford properties). The Planning Commission recommended approval (10-0). Chair Owen noted Councilman Winkler's support. The committee voted unanimously (8-0) to recommend approval for the consent calendar. Discussion Items - O-135-26 (Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers): Ordinance imposing a temporary moratorium on rezoning, conditional use permits, and certain development plan applications for telecommunication hotels and data centers pending review by the Planning Commission. Sponsored by Council Members Chappell, Parrish-Wright, and Hawkins. The committee first voted to return the item to the table (voice vote). Committee Member Hudson moved to strike the second half of the fourth Whereas clause ("nor has a public hearing been held for the public to comment on and suggest potential changes"). Following discussion with County Attorney Laura Ferguson, Committee Member Parrish-Wright successfully moved an amendment to replace the stricken language with "and public hearings are currently being held by the planning commission on the office of planning's recommended changes." The amendment was adopted by voice vote. Council Members Hawkins and Chappell spoke in support, citing constituent concerns and the need for proactive regulation. Council Member Benson opposed, arguing data centers bring revenue and electricity benefits, and that existing zoning already allows such uses. The committee voted 7-1 to recommend approval (Owen, Reed, Parrish-Wright, Raymond, Ruhe, Hudson, Batshon in favor; Benson opposed). The ordinance will go to the full council as old business. Key Outcomes - O-197-26, O-198-26, O-199-26: Unanimously recommended for approval and placed on the consent calendar for the August 13, 2026 Metro Council meeting. - O-135-26: Amended by voice vote to update the fourth Whereas clause to reflect ongoing public hearings. Recommended for approval by a 7-1 vote; placed on old business for the August 13, 2026 Metro Council meeting.

On Tuesday, August 4, 2026, the Government Oversight/Audit and Appointments Committee met at 5:02 p.m. in Council Chambers and virtually, with Chair Donna L. Purvis presiding. All 10 committee members were present, establishing a quorum; Council Member Betsy Ruhe also attended. The committee heard a special presentation from the Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) about proposed changes to rate-setting authority, held two pending ordinances, and recommended a slate of board and commission appointments to the full Metro Council for its August 13, 2026 meeting. The meeting adjourned at 6:44 p.m. Special Discussion: MSD Rate-Setting Authority and Consent Decree (ID 26-0704) - MSD Executive Director Tony Parrott, General Counsel Kellie Watson, CFO Brad Good, Chief Engineer David Johnson, Chief of Staff Carmen Moreno Rivera, and MSD board members attended. Parrott presented an overview opposing the proposed amendment to LMCO Section 50.24 that would lower MSD's rate increase authority from roughly 7% (current board authority 6.9%) to CPI plus 1%. - Parrott described MSD's history: established as a wastewater utility in 1946; took on stormwater, drainage, and flood protection responsibilities under a 1986 MOU with Louisville Metro; and since 2005 has operated under a federal consent decree with the EPA, U.S. Department of Justice, and Commonwealth of Kentucky, amended in 2009 and again in 2017. - MSD stated the second amended consent decree requires completion of the remaining work by 2035. Over the last two years, MSD's board set rate increases at 3.9% per year, the lowest in more than 20 years, but Parrott argued that CPI+1 would force MSD to return to Metro Council annually for rate approval, delay major projects, and increase costs. - Specific projects identified as at risk include the Upper Middle Fork tunnel project (estimated at nearly $400 million), sanitary sewer overflow work, the Floyd's Fork interceptor, eastern Jefferson County water quality treatment plant expansions, updates to 70-plus-year-old flood pump stations, Project Dry, and the catch basin replacement/odor mitigation program. MSD reported a 16% year-over-year decrease in odor complaints. - Consent decree context: EPA added $70 million in critical sewer rehabilitation and a $25 million per year asset management allowance. MSD shifted about $220 million in sanitary sewer overflow projects to later in the schedule to address emergencies such as the Morris Forman biosolids project and Paddy's Run flood pump station (a $240 million project). - Rate and credit impacts: MSD said a one-notch ratings downgrade could cost ratepayers an estimated $10–20 million in additional interest costs. Moody's reportedly assigns rate management about 10% of its scorecard, and S&P Global Ratings already views the 7% cap as a negative. MSD also noted federal grant support for mandates has declined from roughly 75% to 6–7%, while NACWA projects average utility rate increases of 4.4% this year and up to 6.8% over the next five years nationally. - MSD warned that if council approval is required and denied, the consent decree would require MSD to notify EPA, and federal/state regulators could compel the necessary rate increases, shifting local control away from Louisville Metro. MSD also said any change in board authority would be a material change requiring further amendment of the consent decree. - Committee members raised questions and concerns: Council Member Reed asked for a plain-language summary of consent decree projects and progress; Council Member Kramer asked that the summary include EPA additions to requirements since 2005; Council Member Hawkins raised flooding and catch-basin concerns in Park DuVal, especially signage and customer communication; Council Member Piagentini questioned the 'dire' financial narrative and criticized federal consent decrees generally; Council Member Owen suggested an annual affordability discussion; Council Member Ruhe asked about residential/industrial rate structures and the long-term post-decree outlook. - CFO Brad Good explained that rates are set on a cost-of-service basis: for fiscal year 2027, residential rates increased 3.9%, while commercial and industrial rates were adjusted at different percentages, with some decreased and some increased. Council Member Ruhe asked whether industrial rates could offset residential burden, and Good responded that cost-of-service rate design is the nationwide standard. Pending Legislation - O-009-26 – SAFE Law (amending LMCO Chapter 36 police policies): remained held in committee. - O-161-26 – Amending LMCO Section 50.24 to amend the debt service adjustment: remained held in committee after a motion to hold; no final committee vote. Appointments and Reappointments All of the following appointments/reappointments were moved, seconded, approved by voice vote, and sent to the Consent Calendar: - Sarah Brady – Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board (term expires Dec. 31, 2028) - Robert Blair – Air Pollution Control District Board (term expires Jun. 30, 2029) - Michelle Gardner and Terrence Elliott – Anti-Displacement Commission (both terms expire Jun. 26, 2029) - Sharon Bond and Marilyn Lewis – Board of Zoning Adjustment (both terms expire Jun. 30, 2029) - David Greene (term expires May 1, 2027), Jamie Campisano, Lesli Schaffer, and Andrew Blieden (terms expire May 1, 2029) – Greater Louisville Lodging Management District Board - Marina Gonzalez (term expires Jun. 1, 2028) and Matthew Beck (term expires Jun. 1, 2029) – Police Merit Board - Nadareca Thibeaux – Riverport Authority Board (term expires Jul. 31, 2027) - Brian Funk and Kevin Gibson – Waste Management District 109 Board (both terms expire Jun. 22, 2028) Keturah Morrow from the Mayor's Office spoke in support of the appointees. Several appointees attended and spoke, including David Greene, Andrew Blieden, Jamie Campisano, Michelle Gardner, Terrence Elliott, Sharon Bond, Marilyn Lewis, Matthew Beck, Marina Gonzalez, Nadareca Thibeaux, and Brian Funk. Key Outcomes - The MSD discussion was informational; no vote was taken on rate-setting authority. - O-009-26 and O-161-26 were both held in committee. - All 15 appointment/reappointment items were recommended for approval by voice vote and placed on the Consent Calendar for the full Metro Council meeting on August 13, 2026. - The committee requested MSD follow-up materials, including a plain-language consent decree history and progress summary, with additions requested by Council Member Kramer. - Chair Purvis adjourned the meeting at 6:44 p.m.

The Louisville Metro Public Works Committee met on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 4:04 PM in Council Chambers and virtually. Vice Chair Ken Herndon (D-4) chaired the meeting in place of Chair Jeff Hudson. The committee addressed a special discussion on downtown development and voted on a condemnation resolution for a sidewalk project. Several Complete Streets Coalition appointments were carried over without action. Consent Calendar - R-100-26 (Crums Lane Sidewalk Condemnation) – The committee voted to recommend approval; the resolution was placed on the Consent Calendar for the full Metro Council meeting on August 13, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made or recorded during the meeting. Discussion Items - Update on Downtown Development District (ID 26-0991) – Bill Bell, Director of the Louisville Department of Transportation (Ludot), and Mike King, Assistant Director, presented an overview of recent and upcoming projects in the Central Business District (CBD). Key topics included: - Infrastructure investment: $1.6 million in FY27 for paving and $3.75 million in federal funding (including match) for downtown projects. - One‑way to two‑way street conversions: $2 million allocated; conversions are underway for Muhammad Ali and Chestnut Streets (milling/paving begins September 2026) and 7th/8th Streets near Liberty. The conversions aim to enhance safety and connectivity. - Reimagined 9th Street: A complete rebuild from Market to Broadway, creating a public realm and two‑way conversions. Construction expected to begin after Derby 2027, lasting 18–24 months, with at least one lane open in each direction. - Maintenance issues: Removal of porous pavement around tree wells (about one‑third completed), painting silver poles black to match mast arms, and addressing curb damage early to avoid costlier sidewalk repairs. - Street sweeping: CBD sweeping Sunday–Thursday 11 p.m.–7 a.m., Saturday/Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (times noted as to be corrected on the slide). - Tree care: Coordination with urban forestry for tree selection and planting; salt tolerance and proper pruning were emphasized. Councilman Owen joined the discussion, highlighting the need to balance large projects with day‑to‑day maintenance. - R-100-26 – Condemnation for Crums Lane Sidewalk Project – Mike Penick, Right‑of‑Way Manager, explained that the project aims to install a 5–6‑foot sidewalk along Crums Lane to connect Dixie Highway to Shavoy Drive, improving ADA compliance and serving Jefferson County Public Schools. The owner of Parcel 18 has not responded to negotiation attempts; condemnation authority is needed to proceed. The committee approved the resolution to allow the County Attorney to initiate condemnation if the owner remains unresponsive. Key Outcomes - R-100-26 was recommended for approval by a voice vote (motion by Committee Member Chappell, seconded by Committee Member Benson) and placed on the Consent Calendar for the August 13, 2026 Metro Council meeting. - Complete Streets Coalition appointments (Items 3–14: six new appointments and eight reappointments) all remained held in committee; no action was taken. - The meeting adjourned at 4:31 PM.

The Louisville Metro Council met on July 30, 2026, at 6:12 PM in Council Chambers with a virtual option. The meeting included addresses from the public, approval of a consent calendar, several old business items, and first reading of new legislation. Key actions included passage of the late-night business security ordinance (O-280-25) with amendments, approval of the Landmark Building development area TIF, and postponement of the LGE gas franchise renewal. Council President Brent Ackerson presided with 25 members present and one excused. Consent Calendar - Items 22–32 were approved by a 24‑0 vote (Council Member Reno-Weber absent, Council Member Piagentini excused). These included: - O-183-26: $10,000 from District 3 NDF to Metro Parks for the Gyms Not Jails program. - O-189-26: $10,000 from District 13 NDF to Fairdale Fair Community United for the 2026 Fairdale Fair. - O-191-26: $25,000 from District 10 NDF to Metro Parks for multiple community events. - O-192-26: $9,922 from District 6 NDF for Jazz in Central Park. - R-087-26 and R-088-26: Honorary street namings for Mitzi McCauley Wilson and Julio Rodriguez. - O-193-26: Annexation of a tract by the City of Prospect. - R-085-26: Acceptance of $25,000 from the National League of Cities Institute. - R-080-26: Transfer of 2.966 acres of Otter Creek Park to Meade County. - R-083-26: Nomination of Chamberlain Lane as a scenic corridor. - R-090-26: Declaration of surplus property at 207 N. English Station Road. Public Comments & Testimony - Late-Night Business Security Ordinance (O-280-25): Multiple licensed massage therapists spoke in opposition, arguing the ordinance violates HIPAA, Kentucky state law, and client confidentiality. They stated that the ordinance places burdens on legitimate health providers without effectively targeting human trafficking. Speakers included: - Lance Minnis: Called the ordinance a "hazard" to his business, citing legal and privacy concerns. - Jennifer Coyle: Asserted that the ordinance disproportionately burdens small business owners and that existing laws already address trafficking. - Lane Alexander: Requested exemptions for single-practitioner facilities and urged resources be focused on unlicensed operators. - Plant-Based Treaty: Mary Krider and Charles Morrison urged the council to endorse the plant-based treaty to promote health and reduce chronic disease. - Water Service Issues: Bruce Cohen criticized Louisville Water Company for charging $10,000–$11,000 to restore water service to a commercial building. - Employee Wage Grievances: - Nicholaus Keen (Metro Parks employee with 22 years) stated he was placed at a six-year wage step under a new contract, losing hundreds of dollars monthly. - Lisa Trusty (Louisville Zoo employee with 31 years) argued that years of service should be recognized in compensation and that the budget should not be balanced by underpaying long-term employees. - Other: Connie Marshall alleged conspiracy and harassment; Deborah O’Gorman advocated for a downtown grocery store. Discussion Items - O-186-26 – Zoning at 603/603R Mount Holly Road: Approved 25‑0. The ordinance rezones 7.9 acres from R4 to R5 for 40 single-family homes by Habitat for Humanity. Council Member Owen noted the development is in District 13; Council Member Seum expressed support for creating generational wealth. - O-187-26 – Landmark Building Development Area (TIF): Approved 21‑2‑1 (Council Members Parrish-Wright and Lyninger voted no; Council Member Owen abstained due to employment with One Louisville). The 20-year TIF will convert a historic vacant building into a 74‑million‑dollar hotel. Council Member Lyninger argued tax dollars should not subsidize private hotel development over housing. - R-081-26 – Local Incentives for R.C. Bigelow, Inc.: Approved 24‑0‑1 (Council Member Owen abstained). The resolution supports state incentives for Bigelow Tea to expand in Louisville, adding jobs averaging $21–$23/hour. - O-188-26 – LGE Gas Franchise Renewal: Postponed indefinitely by an 18‑7 vote. Council Member Lyninger moved to postpone, citing concerns about LGE’s corporate practices and the inability to charge a franchise fee. The council debated whether the fee would be passed to customers in unincorporated areas. The current franchise expires at the end of August 2026. - O-181-26 – NDF for Friends of Nicole 50/50 Mentoring: Amended to add $1,000 each from Districts 6 and 21, and $500 each from Districts 9 and 14, for a total of $21,000. Approved 25‑0. - O-190-26 – NDF for Jim King Senior Wellness Center: Amended with additional contributions from multiple districts to reach $18,000 total. Approved 25‑0. - O-280-25 – Late-Night Business Security Ordinance: Amended with two floor amendments: 1. Added reference to LMCO 124.01 in the definition of Security Services. 2. Removed "federal" and added "so long as current or prior service is in good standing" to the definition of Security Provider regarding prior law enforcement experience. Approved 20‑2‑3 (Council Members Lyninger and Benson voted no; Council Members Parrish-Wright, Reno-Weber, and Chappell voted present). Council Member Hawkins, the primary sponsor, emphasized the need to address gun violence affecting the West End. - O-185-26 – General Obligation Bonds: Approved 25‑0. Combined with Parks debt issuance. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: All 11 items passed unanimously (24‑0). - O-186-26: Passed 25‑0 (Ordinance No. 128‑2026). - O-187-26: Passed 21‑2‑1 (Ordinance No. 129‑2026). - R-081-26: Adopted 24‑0‑1 (Resolution No. 058‑2026). - O-188-26: Postponed indefinitely (18‑7). - O-181-26: Passed as amended 25‑0 (Ordinance No. 130‑2026). - O-190-26: Passed as amended 25‑0 (Ordinance No. 131‑2026). - O-280-25: Passed as amended 20‑2‑3 (Ordinance No. 132‑2026). - O-185-26: Passed 25‑0 (Ordinance No. 133‑2026). - New Business: First reading of items 41–64 assigned to appropriate committees; several NDF ordinances were amended and passed individually (enactment numbers 134‑144). - Appointments: Mayor’s appointments to various boards were read into the record; those requiring council approval were assigned to the Government Oversight Committee. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for August 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM.

The Parks and Sustainability Committee met on July 23, 2026, at 3:00 PM in Council Chambers with virtual participation. Vice Chair Paula McCraney (I-7) presided, and a quorum of six members was present. The meeting lasted approximately four minutes, adjourning at 3:04 PM. Only one of three agenda items received action; the other two were held. Public Comments & Testimony - The raw transcript includes an extended monologue from an individual describing their passion for mountain biking at a local track, including details about community support and an upcoming national event. The transcript also shows a council member thanking the speaker. However, the official meeting minutes do not record any public comments or presentations, nor do the agenda or minutes list such an item. This discrepancy is noted; it is unclear whether this testimony was part of the formal meeting or a pre-meeting event. Discussion Items - O-108-26 (Foraging Ordinance): This ordinance, which would amend LMCO Section 42.31 to permit foraging of certain plant material in Louisville Metro Parks, remained held in committee with no discussion or action. - R-142-25 (Urban Forest Master Plan Resolution): This resolution urging implementation of the Urban Forest Master Plan strategies also remained held in committee with no discussion or action. - R-080-26 (Otter Creek Park Property Transfer): Committee Member Crystal Bast (R-14), the primary sponsor, presented the resolution. She explained that in 2014 the city declared most of Otter Creek Park surplus for transfer to the state fish and wildlife agency. This resolution would determine 2.966 acres of Otter Creek Park in Meade County as no longer needed for governmental purposes and authorize its transfer to Meade County. After her remarks, no further discussion occurred. Key Outcomes - R-080-26 passed on a voice vote (all ayes, no nays). The motion was made by Committee Member Anthony Piagentini (R-19) and seconded by Committee Member Bast. The resolution was recommended for approval and sent to the Consent Calendar for the full Metro Council meeting on July 30, 2026. - O-108-26 and R-142-25 remain held in committee with no deadline for further action noted beyond their original action-required dates (November 14, 2026, and November 14, 2026, respectively).