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SubscribeOrdinance Will Take Effect June 1, 2016 After Signed By Mayor
By a vote of 20 to 6, The Louisville Metro Council has approved a new set of regulations to permit the growing online industry of short-term rentals within Metro Louisville. Hosting platforms such as Airbnb, HomeAway, VRBO and FlipKey are used by a growing number of homeowners seeking to rent out anything from an extra room to an entire house.
The short-term rental ordinance passed after the work of the Council’s Public Safety Committee. Members began to review the need for regulation after Metro Codes and Regulations cited residents for renting their homes. At the time, there were no regulations to enforce.
The new ordinance will regulate this growing internet industry and offer a level playing field and fairness to other businesses that are established rental facilities and hotels in the city.
“As Chair of the Public Safety Committee I am proud we took our time and due diligence to ensure transparency and consideration of both the public’s and businesses’ views on this issue. We have a good piece of legislation that seeks to balance both interests while promoting safety and ensuring accountability,” says Councilman David Yates (D-25).
Council Members Bill Hollander (D-9), Tom Owen (D-8), and David James (D-6) sponsored the Ordinance
“The ordinance allows this growing industry to operate in Louisville, levels the playing field with hotels and motels on transient occupancy taxes and protects neighborhoods by limiting the number of occupants and other provisions,” said Hollander,
The new ordinance will not take effect until June 1, 2016 to allow those who participate in short-term rentals to register with the city and educate themselves on the responsibilities of both hosts and transient users. Another ordinance currently being drafted by the Planning Commission will address which zoning districts Short Term Rentals will be permitted to operate.
Both ordinances are required to permit Short Term Rental operation. The Planning Commission will forward their drafted ordinance to the Metro Council’s Ad Hoc Land Development Code Committee to be further discussed. The Metro Council is seeking action on the companion ordinance before theJune 1, 2016 enactment date.
“This ordinance represents a good first step in the right direction. Short term rentals are an industry that will only continue to grow and we need to embrace it as a mechanism to show off some of our fantastic neighborhoods,” says Councilman James Peden (R-23), Vice Chair of the Public Safety Committee..
“We’ve passed a reasonable regulation of a brand new industry which until now was not recognized as a full participant in the hospitality industry,” said Owen.
“It is important that we understand the trends in this new internet economy and at the same time we have to maintain protection of those industries that have been a productive part of our local economy. I believe this ordinance is a step in the right direction,” said James
Here are highlights of the ordinance:
- $25 Annual Registration Fee.
- Online Registration will be made available by June 1, 2016.
- Enforcement of Ordinance will occur 90 days following June 1, 2016.
- Registered host or host’s “manager” must be located within 25 miles of the Short Term Rental.
- Clearly marked evacuation plan on all premises.
- No more than one contract on a short-term rental at the same time.
- No more transient users than 2x the amount of bedrooms plus 4 can reside in the short-term rental at one time.
- Penalties:
- 1st Offense = Warning
- 2nd Offense = $100-$500
- 3rd Offense = $500-$1,000
- Further action can be taken for subsequent offenses including a civil complaint or injunctive relief in Jefferson County, Kentucky Circuit Court.
Councilman Yates thanked fellow Public Safety Committee members and stated, “I am very proud of the many important topics we discussed this year on the Public Safety Committee, including: the Public Nuisance Ordinance, LMPD body cameras, Pop-Up Party Ordinance, the Short Term Rental Ordinance and the creation of the Syringe Exchange. I am looking forward to another successful year in 2016.”
The ordinance is on its way to Mayor Greg Fischer for his signature.
Bring The Family, Friends And Pets And For A Day Of Fun And Season’S Greetings
Louisville – It’s the time of year when Frankfort Avenue rings in the holidays with the 20th Annual Olde Tyme Christmas on Saturday, December 5.
“Saturday is shaping up to be a beautiful day, for a sprint, a stroll, a walk with your dog or a visit with Santa,” says Councilman Bill Hollander (D-9). “It’s a great way to support the important work of United Crescent Hill Ministries who help those in need at this time of year and our local businesses with this great celebration.”
The day begins with the annual Santa Sprint & Stroll, a merry 5k Run or 1-Mile Walk presented by the Frankfort Avenue Business Association, to benefit the United Crescent Hill Ministries. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. at Barret Traditional Middle School, 2561 Grinstead Drive.
The run and walk starts at 9:00 a.m. and travels a flat course on South Peterson Avenue, South Galt Avenue and Frankfort Avenue before ending back at the school, where refreshments will be served.
The following streets will closed from 8:30 am – 10:30 am, with no parking from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.:
· South Peterson Avenue from Frankfort Avenue to Grinstead Drive
· Frankfort Avenue from Stilz Avenue to the railroad tracks
· South Galt Avenue from Frankfort Avenue to Rowland Avenue
At Noon, dogs take over the Avenue with the annual Holiday Dog Walk. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. at 2005 Frankfort Avenue, in front of the new, locally owned Bankstown Road at Frankfur Avenue pet supply store.
Free trolleys run throughout the Avenue from Noon to 5:00 p.m. and horse carriage rides are from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Many shops and restaurants will have holiday specials.
In the early afternoon, the focus shifts to the Avenue in front of Margaret’s Consignments, 2700 Frankfort Avenue. Santa will be there from Noon to 3:00 p.m. Councilman Hollander will present the Frankfort Avenue Business Association’s Golden Antler and Good Neighbor Awards at 2:00 p.m., recognizing the Avenue’s best-decorated shops and some outstanding area neighbors.
“So come out and join the fun,” says Hollander.
Louisville has received $1.5 million in federal funding for a project to improve conditions in downtown Louisville for pedestrians and people with disabilities, among others, Mayor Greg Fischer and Gov. Steve Beshear announced today.
When the work is completed, sidewalks in the project area – South Fourth Street between West Chestnut and Broadway – will be repaired or rebuilt to comply with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act and to encourage pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Current conditions, including deteriorated pavers, have significantly limited ADA mobility.
“South Fourth Street is a valued asset to our downtown economic development,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “Our goal is to attract people living, working, shopping and dining in downtown Louisville and this investment from the state helps to make that continual mission possible.”
The funding announced today will build upon the $1.5 million in Metro funds already spent on enhancements along South Fourth Street between Muhammad Ali Blvd and Chestnut St., as well as Gutherie St. and complement the $100 million in private sector investment currently being made in the area.
“Projects such as these enhance a community’s transportation choices and therefore enhance the quality of life for citizens of the community,” Gov. Beshear said. “This award furthers the City of Louisville’s larger plan for making it easier for pedestrians to get around downtown.”
The project area is near a number of non-profit agencies – the Salvation Army, Volunteers of America, KentuckianaWorks and the Housing Partnership – that work with the disabled, veterans, the elderly, the poor and minorities.
Other work is to include enlarged tree wells, restriping of pavement on Fourth Street, and there will be parking on both sides of the street.
The funding is through the federal Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), a reimbursement program administered by the Office of Local Programs in the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Department of Rural and Municipal Aid.
TAP assists communities in funding transportation improvements such as safe bicycle and pedestrian facilities, scenic routes, beautification, and other investments. Projects may be a mix of elements and accessible to the general public or targeted to a broad segment of the general public.
Councilman David James (D-6) welcomes all the participants who have come to Louisville for this year’s IRONMAN Triathlon set for Sunday, October 11th.
“This is a great competition and we want to wish everyone the best of luck but residents and drivers will find out that there are many traffic changes set for Sunday,” says James. “We want the athletes to be safe and we want to minimize any frustration by drivers. So in order to plan your travels, Louisville metro police have issued the traffic changes that are in place for the competition.”
IRONMAN TRIATHLON
STREET CLOSURE AND NO PARKING AREA LIST
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2015
STREET CLOSURES
The following streets will be closed during the following times;
5:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Witherspoon Street from Preston Street to Bingham Way
River Road from Third Street I-64 W/B Ramp to Bingham (local access only-Joe’s Crab Shack)
7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
River Road from Preston Street to Witherspoon Street
River Road from Preston Street to U.S. 42
Morning traffic will be allowed west on River Road after the bicycle safety tail car. Afternoon traffic (approximately 1 pm) will be allowed east on River Road after the safety tail car.
11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Brook Street from Witherspoon Street to Main Street
Main Street from Brook Street to Third Street
Second Street (under 2nd St. bridge) from Witherspoon to River Rd.
Third Street from Main Street to Liberty Street
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Third Street from Liberty Street to Winkler Avenue
Fourth Street from Liberty Street to Chestnut Street
Muhammad Ali Blvd. from Second Street to Fourth Street
Chestnut Street from Third Street to Fifth Street
Noon to 1:00 a.m
Winkler Avenue from Third Street to Fourth Street
Fourth Street from Winkler Avenue to Oakdale Avenue
Oakdale Avenue from Fourth Street to Southern Parkway
Central Avenue from Fourth Street to Sixth St.
12:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Southern Parkway from Third Street to New Cut Road
Southern Parkway Ramp from Interstate 264 (Watterson Expressway) eastbound
3:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Liberty Street from Second Street to Fifth Street
Traffic will only be allowed to cross the route on the following roadways when the area is clear of runners during the following times;
Jefferson Street Entire Event
Liberty Street 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Breckinridge Street 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Kentucky Street 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Hill Street 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Cardinal Blvd. 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Central Avenue Noon to 2:00 p.m.
Woodlawn Avenue 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The Watterson Expressway can also be used to cross the route during the entire event.
NO PARKING AREAS
The following streets will have no parking on them during the following times;
5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
River Road from Edith Lane to Preston Street
Witherspoon Street from Preston Street to Bingham Way
7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Brook Street from Witherspoon Street to Main Street
Main Street from Brook Street to Third Street
Third Street from River Road to Liberty Street
7:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Liberty Street from Third Street to Fifth Street
Muhammad Ali Blvd. from Second Street to Fourth Street
Chestnut Street from Third Street to Fifth Street
Fourth Street from Muhammad Ali Blvd. to Chestnut Street
Third Street from Liberty Street to Winkler Avenue
Winkler Avenue from Third Street to Fourth Street
Fourth Street from Winkler Avenue to Oakdale Avenue
Oakdale Avenue from Fourth Street to Southern Parkway
Central Avenue from Fourth Street to Sixth Street
There is still plenty of time to get out and enjoy the final days of the 2015 Kentucky State Fair, which runs through this Sunday.
There is entertainment for everyone at the fair. Children (and kids at heart) will enjoy the performing animal acts like JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Challenge, Miller’s Border Collies, and Cuzzin’ Grumpy’s Porkchop Revue. Fair-goers looking for thrills will want to check acts like the Chinese Acrobats of Hebei or Team FMX.
Foodies looking for something interesting for their pallets may want to try a few of the many vendors that are selling unique items like the Philly Cheesesteak Doughnut Burger, a deep fried bacon-wrapped Oreo, or some traditional Kentucky favorites with a twist like the Hot Brown on a Stick or the deep fried Derby Pie. There are also cooking contests and demonstrations throughout the day as well. On Friday, there’s a Taste of Beef Challenge and Cast Iron Skillet competition. Those interested in farming will enjoy a walk through the Agriculture exhibits to see various fruits, vegetables, and grains that were grown throughout the state, including a pumpkin that weighs over 800 lbs.
Attendees interested in the performing arts won’t have to look far. Alumni and faculty of the Jefferson County Youth Performing Arts School are performing two different musicals celebrating the history of the Constitution and the Emancipation Proclamation. Dance lovers will also be able to see cloggers, square dancers, and other forms of dancing during the fair daily.
For the animal lovers there are sheep, swine and beef cattle competitions daily and, on Sunday, there will be a draft horse and mule pull. For a more hands on experience with animals, there is the Discovery Farm in the exhibit hall where fair goers can see ducklings learning to swim, learn about dairy, and have a chance to see chickens hatch. The World’s Championship Horse Show is wrapping as well. Free seating is available in Freedom Hall starting at 9:00 AM in the Upper Level.
There is no shortage of musical entertainment either. Visitors to the 2015 Kentucky State Fair can visit any of the many venues placed throughout the grounds. There are a variety of bands playing all day that will surely suit everyone’s tastes. There are also concerts nightly in the Cardinal Stadium, many of them free with fair admission. Charlie Daniels with Colt Ford will be playing Friday at 8:00 PM and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts with Devour the Day will be playing at the same time on Saturday. Sunday at 8:00 PM Boyz II Men and Kool & The Gang will be playing. Tickets for this show can be purchased through Ticketmaster with prices ranging from $50 to $1800, which includes standard fair admission.
Be sure to check out our 2015 Kentucky State Fair album on Facebook for more photos of all the action.
The Kentucky State Fair board has announced that the hiring of more than 750 temporary employees for the event will begin August 10.
Positions include ticket sellers, gate attendants, maintenance workers, and tram drivers. Wages start at $10.10 an hour. Qualified applicants must be at least 18 years old and have proper identification verifying eligibility to work.
Interested applicants must apply in person at either the KY Expo Center (South Wing C) or the employment trailer at Gate 4 of the KY Expo Center according the schedule below.
KY Exposition Center, South Wing C
August 10: 7 A.M. until 4 P.M.
August 11: 10 A.M. until 6 P.M.
August 12, 13, and 14: 8 A.M. until 4 P.M.
Employment Trailer, Gate 4 at the KY Exposition Center
August 15: 8 A.M. until 12 P.M.
August 17: 8 A.M. until 4 P.M.
August 18: 6 A.M. until 6 P.M.
August 19 and 20: 7:30 A.M. until Midnight
August 21: 7:30 A.M. until 8 P.M.
August 22: 7:30 AM until 10 P.M.
August 23 – 28: 7:30 A.M. until 8 P.M.
August 29: 7:30 A.M. until 10 P.M.
August 30: 7:30 A.M. until 2 P.M.
For additional information, call the Employment Office at (502) 367- 5235
Starting Monday, February 16th, the ramp from I-65 North to I-64 West will be closed for approximately four months. It is scheduled to reopen in June.
The closure is part of the Ohio River Bridges Project. The current ramp will be completely demolished and rebuilt. The new ramp will link the three overpasses that are currently under construction.
It is estimated that this ramp sees approximately 11,000 vehicles every day. To prevent traffic problems, the suggested detour is for drivers on I-65 N will be to take I-264 to I-64. This detour will be posted on the highway.
Watch the Louisville Dispatch Traffic Report for updates on changing area traffic patterns.
