Sunday December 7, 2025
Local Connection
Weather
Traffic
@LouisvilleDispatch
@LouisvilleDisp
Subscribe
Photo: NCSLA
Kentucky was front-and-center at last week’s National Conference of State Liquor Administrators (NCSLA) meeting in Denver, when the Commonwealth was selected to host the group’s 2019 annual conference.
Kentucky beat Kansas to host the conference, which is expected to bring approximately 500 visitors to the state for four days. Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Commissioner Christine Trout represented Kentucky and highlighted the numerous attractions and amenities the state has to offer for conference attendees.
“Kentucky ABC looks forward to welcoming our fellow state regulators from across the country to Kentucky for four days of meetings, training, and sightseeing,” said Commissioner Trout. “The annual conference agenda always covers diverse and timely issues, and we look forward to placing Kentucky at the center of the discussion.”
Kentucky is already slated to host the NCSLA Northern-Southern Regional Conference later this year in Louisville. Approximately 250 regulators from neighboring states will attend the conference, which will focus on Kentucky’s alcoholic beverage producers and the state’s Red Tape Reduction Initiative.
Commissioner Trout will serve as the vice chair of the NCSLA Southern Region during the conference and will be responsible for assisting the chair with overseeing regional activities during the next year. She was elected to the position by NCSLA members during the Denver meeting and will become chair in 2018.
“I am honored to serve in this leadership position and look forward to sharing my knowledge of state government processes and regulatory compliance with leaders from neighboring states,” said Commissioner Trout. “Kentucky is on the forefront of many important alcoholic beverage issues, and I am excited to tell our story.”
NCSLA’s primary goal is to create and maintain effective systems of alcohol regulation for the public interest. The group promotes effective alcohol policies in local communities and educates members on regulatory compliance.
To learn more about NCSLA, visit http://ncsla.org/. For additional information about ABC, visit http://abc.ky.gov/Pages/index.aspx.
Gov. Matt Bevin and Kentucky Labor Sec. Derrick Ramsey today filed a motion to dismiss the purely political, frivolous lawsuit brought by the AFL-CIO and Teamsters challenging Kentucky’s Right-to-Work Act. This lawsuit threatens to hurt Kentucky’s families, robbing them of high-paying job opportunities. The historic new law protects employees in the Commonwealth from being forced to pay union dues in order to keep their jobs.
“Companies like Braidy Industries made it clear from the beginning that right-to-work laws are a major factor in deciding to locate to Kentucky,” said Amanda Stamper, Communications Director. “What purpose does this lawsuit serve, except to hurt working families that are depending on these jobs? This ridiculous legal action by the AFL-CIO and Teamsters will not quell the momentum building across the state. Kentucky is winning, and this will not slow us down.”
In the motion, Gov. Bevin and Sec. Ramsey fight to protect employees from being forced to pay their hard-earned money to unions. Exactly 70 years ago today, with the enactment of the Taft-Hartley Act, Congress authorized states to enact Right-to-Work laws and Kentucky’s decision to do so is a constitutional exercise of the state’s authority.
The legislature’s adoption of Right-to-Work and other pro-growth policies has already borne fruit in the form of $6.7 billion in new investments and the promise of thousands of new jobs in the Commonwealth in just the first six months of the year, including a $1.3 billion investment in the Ashland area that will create hundreds of high-paying jobs.
The majority of Kentucky’s border states—Indiana, Missouri, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia—have also enacted right-to-work legislation.
Studies examining Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data show that right-to-work states report faster per capita income growth, greater capital expenditures, lower unemployment, fewer work stoppages and faster growth in manufacturing and non-agricultural jobs than non-right-to-work states.
Contrary to critics who claim that right-to-work protections eliminate opportunities to affiliate with a union, 2015 BLS data also shows that union membership in right-to-work states actually grew more quickly than in non-right-to-work states.
Click here for copy of motion to dismiss.
Louisville Metro tops the list in the 2017 City on a Cloud Awards’ Dream Big category for large cities, presented and announced this month by Amazon Web Services.
The award was given to the Office of Civic Innovation (part of Performance Improvement and Innovation), which focuses on developing innovative ideas to improve access to city services. The city’s 2017 Dream Big Award submission — titled “Transit Equity: Automation, Inclusion, and Safety” — focused on improving traffic flow through real-time traffic data that automatically adjusts when it senses detrimental systematic changes, a project that is currently under development.
“Cloud services are a key component to Smart City technologies and advancing intelligent traffic management and logistics that improve the daily lives of residents in big and small ways. This award recognizes ambitions that can be achieved through Louisville Metro’s team, our partners and initiatives such as the Louisville Fiber Information Technology project, an overbuild partnership with KentuckyWired,” said Grace Simrall, Chief of Civic Innovation.
In 2015, Louisville won Amazon’s City on a Cloud contest for Best Practices. For part of that project, the city used Amazon Web Services to store Waze real-time data and transformed it for use. It was successful for Metro and this new award allows the city to expand on that success with a larger mobility project with the Traffic Engineering department.
Metro has an on-going, small pilot group of internal data consumers for the Waze CCP traffic data.
“By using Amazon Web Services to build out the city’s first data warehouse, we can centralize, share, analyze and take action on transportation data across departments. Much of this will also be sent to our Open Data Portal for the public,” says Michael Schnuerle, the city’s Data Officer. Area data sharing partnerships will include the city, state, and regional transportation agencies to improve and connect all transit.
“We continue to be amazed by the work that our customers are doing around the world to better serve citizens. This year’s City on a Cloud Innovation Challenge produced inspiring applications from cities, police departments, school districts, and our partners that use real-time data analytics, IoT services, and open data projects, all on the AWS Cloud,” said Teresa Carlson, VP of Worldwide Public Sector for AWS. “AWS is proud to recognize this year’s winners and showcase the innovation to improve our roads, provide digital learning to all students, and benefit first responders.”
More details about all the awards is available on the AWS website at:
https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/publicsector/city-on-a-cloud-innovation-challenge-winners-announced/
Beginning this fall, students enrolled in an automotive or diesel technology program with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) can apply to gain paid, hands-on experience with local Department of Highways maintenance garages through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) new Transportation Mechanic Apprenticeship Program (TMAP).
As the state’s first automotive technician apprenticeship program registered with the Kentucky Labor Cabinet’s Division of Apprenticeship (and one of only two such programs in the Commonwealth listed with the Labor Cabinet), TMAP presents a unique opportunity for high school graduates entering the workforce and for individuals seeking a new career pathway.
“Partnering with KCTCS to provide an automotive technician apprenticeship program benefits Kentucky’s workforce and assists our KYTC mission,” said Transportation Sec. Greg Thomas. “TMAP apprentices will help maintain and repair the equipment our road crews use to provide a safe and reliable transportation system for all who travel Kentucky’s roadways. TMAP also offers opportunities for Kentuckians to improve their quality of life through practical training as they work toward their associate’s degree.”
Whether apprentices continue their career with KYTC after graduating the program or decide to pursue an automotive position elsewhere, they will have a nationally recognized certification to present to future employers.
The Kentucky Occupational Outlook to 2024 (for years 2014-2024) indicates an 11.5 percent increase in demand for automotive service technicians and mechanics and a 22.5 percent increase for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists. Currently, KYTC has a demand for individuals across Kentucky who possess the skills specific to those trades.
“Under the Labor Cabinet’s ‘Kentucky Trained. Kentucky Built.’ initiative, our goal is to increase apprenticeship programs and expand the variety of trades represented to meet workforce goals throughout the state,” said Labor Sec. Derrick Ramsey. “The demand for highly skilled laborers isn’t exclusive to the private sector; public agencies need employees with specialized skill sets as well.”
To be considered for KYTC’s TMAP, an individual must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid driver’s license, have an acceptable criminal record report and be enrolled in an automotive or diesel technology program through KCTCS. Interested TMAP candidates can take advantage of the close proximity of hands-on training and educational opportunities.
“The statewide availability of KYTC’s apprenticeship program locations offers Kentuckians seeking a career the convenience of not having to commute long distances,” said Ramona Brock, KYTC apprenticeship program coordinator. “Transportation maintenance garages are located in all 12 districts, and KCTCS provides an automotive program in every district and a diesel technology program in nine of the 12 districts.”
Apprentices participating in TMAP will gain 2,000 hours of combined coursework and hands-on experience over a period of two years and will be subject to a four-month probationary period. Work ethic and willingness to learn and take direction are necessary for satisfactory completion of the program. TMAP apprentices will receive increasing pay opportunities, starting at $9.50 per hour and potentially advancing to $14.42 upon graduating. After satisfactorily completing TMAP, graduates will receive a nationally recognized credential in addition to their two-year college degree.
KYTC’s Transportation Mechanic Apprenticeship Program meets national standards for registration with the U.S. Department of Labor and the Kentucky Labor Cabinet’s Division of Apprenticeship.
TMAP candidates can access additional information about the program and download an application at transportation.ky.gov/Education or can email Ramona.Brock@ky.gov. The deadline to submit a TMAP application is Sept. 15.
Photo: Kentucky Cabinet For Economic Development
Gov. Matt Bevin, Cabinet for Economic Development Sec. Terry Gill, other state officials and business representatives will attend the 52nd International Paris Air Show in France this week to discuss new business and expansion opportunities with aviation and aerospace executives from around the globe.
“Kentucky is a top location in the U.S. for aviation and aerospace engineering, manufacturing and R&D. We offer formidable advanced-manufacturing resources and experience, plus workforce programs that set the bar nationally, logistics hubs that deliver products nearly anywhere globally overnight, and a network of available sites and buildings in attractive communities,” Gov. Bevin said. “Meetings we have scheduled with corporate executives during the Paris Air Show will give us the opportunity to demonstrate how Kentucky meets their needs and provides the environment for long-term success.”
First held in 1909, the Paris Air Show is the world’s largest aerospace event. It brings together key players in the aerospace industry to pursue business deals, showcase technology and develop industrial partnerships.
“Aerospace has been one of the fastest growing industries in Kentucky for several years now, and it is important we use every opportunity to build upon that success,” Sec. Gill said. “The Paris Air Show provides the greatest opportunity to do just that. The ability to meet in person with aerospace executives from around the world and discuss Kentucky’s many advantages will go a long way toward developing new relationships and strengthening those we have already established.”
Across Kentucky, the aerospace industry is on the rise.
Through May 2017, Kentucky announced more than $1.3 billion in investment by aerospace-related companies. Projects include the nation’s first aluminum rolling mill built on a greenfield site in more than a generation. The Braidy Industries mill, expected to open in 2020, will produce high-strength aluminum alloy sheet for the aviation and aerospace industry as well as other sectors. The investments are expected to create nearly 600 full-time jobs.
Already, the aviation and aerospace sector is a pillar of Kentucky’s economy. It employs nearly 17,000 people statewide at almost 80 different manufacturing, service and technology-related facilities. Advanced manufacturers of carbon brakes, jet engines and turbines, cockpit avionics, wiring and control systems, micro satellites, software development, data analytics, advanced materials R&D, micro-gravity research services, industry logistics and support services and missile defense system manufacturing and overhauling.
Aerospace products and parts continue to be Kentucky’s top export category, with more than $10.8 billion in products shipped abroad in 2016. Nearly $2.9 billion in aerospace products were exported from the commonwealth in the first quarter of 2017, a 9.4-percent increase over the same months a year ago.
To learn more about Kentucky’s aerospace industry, visit http://thinkkentucky.com/Aerospace/.
This year’s Paris Air Show will include more than 2,300 exhibitors with more than 130 aircraft scheduled to be on display.
In 2015, the air show shattered its previous attendance records with more than 350,000 visitors, including more than 4,300 journalists from 72 countries.
To learn more about the Paris Air Show, visit www.siae.fr/en/.
Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at ThinkKentucky.com. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion on Facebook or follow on Twitter. Watch the Cabinet’s “This is My Kentucky” video on YouTube.
Photo: Churchill Downs Inc.
Churchill Downs Incorporated has announced it is investing approximately $60 million to construct a state-of-the-art historical racing machine (“HRM”) facility in Louisville. The 85,000-square-foot facility will be built at 4520 Poplar Level Road—Churchill Downs’ former Trackside (also known as the former Sports Spectrum) site, and conveniently located less than half a mile from the Poplar Level Road exit off the Henry Watterson Expressway (I-264). CDI’s request to offer exotic wagering on historical racing was conditionally approved by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission this afternoon.
“With a state-of-the-art facility and new, innovative historical racing machines, we will deliver an exciting and compelling product for our customers in Louisville. This is a great opportunity for us to revitalize another area of our city while strengthening the Commonwealth’s equine industry through larger purses and greater incentives for Kentucky breeders and owners,” Churchill Downs Race Track president Kevin Flannery said. “Stronger horse racing means a stronger Kentucky.”
The company says the facility will create 450 new jobs for the local economy, including 250 construction jobs. An estimated 200 new full- and part-time jobs will be created to operate and manage the facility. Churchill Downs will hire both hourly and salaried employees in areas including operations, marketing, finance, food and beverage, maintenance, information technology, human resources, security and administration. Job fairs will be held at Trackside for the neighborhoods surrounding the facility and the Churchill Downs Race Track.
This announcement comes on the heels of CDI’s decision to relocate its TwinSpires.com business to Louisville from Silicon Valley, California, creating more than 70 high-tech, high-paying jobs for the city.
The planned facility will house two quick-service, walk-up food venues, as well as a bar with seating for 50 and large format televisions for guests to take in all the best sporting action year-round. The gaming area will open with 600 cutting-edge historical racing machines and a player’s club reward center offering special perks and benefits, including an exclusive parking area for loyal guests.
Construction is slated to begin later this year, and CDI hopes to open the facility by summer of 2018.
Photo: Kentucky Cabinet For Economic Development
Gov. Matt Bevin, Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development leaders Sec. Terry Gill and Executive Officer Vivek Sarin, and officials from KentuckyUnited will attend the 2017 SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington D.C. this week, engaging with executives from companies around the world and working to develop opportunities for investment and job creation in the state.
Gov. Bevin is scheduled to speak at the summit on Monday, reaffirming the state’s commitment to building a welcoming environment for global companies and discussing the state’s actions to do so. Attracting international investment creates news jobs for Kentuckians and positive economic impact for communities across the state.
“We’re making tremendous strides in growing Kentucky’s business community. Already this year, we shattered the commonwealth’s all-time, full-year corporate investment record. Companies the world over are discovering our many advantages, including a central geographic location, a robust logistics industry, a highly skilled workforce, low energy costs, excellence in engineering and manufacturing and our increasingly strong pro-business climate,” Gov. Bevin said. “Business expansion in Kentucky is on a roll and internationally owned companies – which already employ more than 105,000 Kentuckians – and domestic businesses alike, are taking notice.”
The three-day summit begins Sunday at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. This year’s theme, “Grow with US,” will focus on the nation’s innovative business climate.
Terry Gill, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, said the theme reflects across Kentucky.
“Kentucky’s success in attracting new corporate investment this year puts us on track to create the highest number of new jobs in a decade,” he said. “We’re helping put in place innovative workforce-development programs that ensure our current and future corporate partners can hire the skilled employees they need. These efforts adjoin the many advantages our state already offers to internationally based businesses.”
Kentucky is home to nearly 500 internationally owned business facilities, including manufacturing plants, corporate offices, logistics providers, service-related companies and tech firms and research operations. This year through May, the state announced nearly $1.77 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), which is expected to create 2,160 jobs.
FDI accounts for about one-third of the record-breaking nearly $5.8 billion investment announced in Kentucky through May, as well as approximately 23 percent of the 9,500-plus jobs announced this year.
Hal B. Goode, president and CEO of the Kentucky Association for Economic Development, said the opportunities Kentucky offers for investment from international corporations will connect with the SelectUSA audience.
“Kentucky offers outstanding and enticing benefits for foreign direct investment and SelectUSA gives us and our partners in KentuckyUnited the venue to these opportunities to business influencers and decision makers from across the world,” Goode said. “In addition to the work by cities counties and communities across the commonwealth to prepare for economic development success, we will be promoting Kentucky’s recent policies and programs in workforce development and business-climate improvement.”
KentuckyUnited is a public-private partnership of state, local and regional economic development organizations, utilities and private corporations, formed to market Kentucky’s business advantages to site location consultants and companies interested in siting a new location, expansion or relocation.
SelectUSA, which promotes foreign direct investment in the US, will offer networking opportunities for state, regional and local economic development officials to make their pitch to global investors. Keynote speakers and exhibitors will be on hand to discuss various investment opportunities and to showcase how FDI is a driver of economic development throughout the nation.
In 2016, more than 2,500 people participated in the summit from 70 markets and 52 states and territories.
SelectUSA is the US Government-wide program that promotes and facilitates business investment in the US. The organization provides services to international investors of all sizes and US state, regional and economic development organizations working across the federal government.
To learn more about SelectUSA or the 2017 Investment Summit, visit www.selectusa.gov.
Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at ThinkKentucky.com. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion on Facebook or follow on Twitter. Watch the Cabinet’s “This is My Kentucky” video on YouTube.
