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Photo: Vacant and Public Property Administration
The Metro Council’s Community Affairs and Housing Committee has announced the first in a series of meetings to update Louisville’s progress in dealing with vacant and abandoned property in Metro Louisville.
“This year the committee will invite the community to come out and ask questions on the various programs recently announced last fall by the mayor,” says Councilwoman Barbara Shanklin (D-2), who chairs the committee.
The first meeting is set for Monday, February 12th beginning at 1:30pm at the Shawnee Golf Course Clubhouse, 460 Northwestern Parkway.
The committee is encouraging the public to come out and meet with staff from Metro Louisville’s Vacant and Public Property Administration. The office has recently implemented new programs designed to help with the purchase of abandoned property along with helping improve the appearance of vacant buildings in neighborhoods with problems properties.
“Last year, the Metro Council approved funding for a clearboarding program. We have also increased the funding to demolish unsightly buildings on neighborhood streets,” says Shanklin. “Metro Government working through the Landbank has intensified efforts to help anyone purchase property. This meeting is an opportunity to be updated on where we are and how the community can get involved.”
Councilwoman Shanklin says this series of meetings will offer the community a chance to learn more about what’s going on and will be held in multiple locations in the coming months.
For more information about the various programs on Vacant and Public Properties, go to: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/vacant-public-property-administration.
Following a two-year study that included multiple public meetings, a survey of residents and outreach to the Jefferson County League of Cities and private waste hauling businesses, a consulting report that assesses Louisville’s current solid waste management system has been finalized.
The report includes recommended improvements and lays the groundwork as the city works to develop ways to accomplish Mayor Greg Fischer’s goal of diverting 90 percent of the community’s solid waste away from landfills by the year 2042.
The consulting report was led by Orlando, Fla.-based MSW Consultants, in partnership with Cascadia Consulting Group (Seattle, Wash.) and Abbe & Associates (Alameda, Calif.) under a $350,000 contract. MSW is a management consulting firm specializing in the waste and recycling industry.
Begun with a public meeting on Dec. 8, 2015, the consultant’s study was conducted in three phases. The first examined the makeup of Louisville’s residential and commercial wastes and helped quantify potential diversion opportunities.
It found, for example, that in 2015, two-thirds of the 879,000 tons of waste put into area landfills could have been diverted through recycling, composting or reuse.
Phase Two looked at the policies, operations and costs associated with the present waste and recycling collection system. The consultants determined that costs vary widely depending largely on whether a household is in the Urban Services District, one of the 82 smaller municipalities in Jefferson County, or in an unincorporated area of the county.
In Phase Three, results of the previous phases were shared with the public before short- and long-term recommendations were developed for all aspects of the waste management system.
Short-term recommendations focus on the possibility of expanding services and education, as well as updated ordinances and contracts. Longer term recommendations include initiatives such as an online materials exchange program, every-other-week trash collection and mandatory recycling.
Those recommendations will be studied by Public Works, Metro Council and the Louisville/Jefferson County Solid Waste District, with additional public input, before any potential changes are made.
The full report can be found online at www.louisvilleky.gov/government/public-works/solid-waste-study-report-january-2018 .
EY, one of the world’s largest business-services organizations, opened its new center for executive assistants and other professional functions within its expanded and remodeled downtown Louisville office, Gov. Matt Bevin and Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer announced today.
“We are excited to see a global icon like EY finalize plans to make Kentucky an integral part of its operations,” Gov. Bevin said. “EY’s new professional service center is further evidence that the commonwealth is an ideal destination for companies seeking a skilled, professional workforce, outstanding quality of life and low operating costs. Their innovative office concept is a prime example of why the company has been a leader in its industry for generations. We are grateful for their continued confidence and investment in Kentucky.”
The 20,109-square-foot office at 400 W. Market St. serves as EY’s Kentucky and southern Indiana market headquarters and houses members of the firm’s expanding National Executive Assistant Team (NEAT) along with the rest of EY’s practice. The center supports EY executives across the country. The firm operates similar centers in Dallas, Cleveland and Tucson. The company invested $4.3 million to remodel and outfit the Central Business District location as an expansion of its professional practice office, which has been part of Kentucky for nearly a century.
The Louisville NEAT center showcases the company’s EY@Work office design, which includes a mix of individual and collaborative spaces and robust technology resources to support teamwork and productivity. EY also announced Louisville native Greg Pope will lead the NEAT center as office managing partner for Kentucky and Southern Indiana.
“The opening of our modern, engaging office space and the ever-evolving business climate makes for an exciting time to join the Louisville office. This space will allow our people to grow as professionals and do their best work at EY, with innovation and teaming at the forefront. This collaborative environment will lead to us asking better questions and providing better answers for our clients,” Pope said. “We’ve built an amazing practice and culture here in Louisville. As a Louisville native, I could not be more excited and proud to carry them forward and work closely with our people to advance EY’s purpose of building a better working world.”
EY’s market position and brand in Louisville led in large part to the firm selecting Louisville for the NEAT center. Specialty branding in the office also celebrates EY’s 95-year legacy in the Louisville area, with unique visual nods to Muhammad Ali, the Kentucky Derby and more.
Pope succeeds David Calzi, who assumes the lead role for EY’s central region government and public sector.
“I could not be happier for Greg and for our entire practice. He is an amazing professional and more importantly a great guy who cares very deeply about the community we all live in. He along with our dedicated and passionate professionals will take the EY brand in the market to even greater heights.” Calzi said. “I am heartened by this successful transition as well as the addition of the National Executive Assistant Team being an impetus for the expansion of our local footprint. EY has been a proud local citizen for close to a century and will continue to be so for many years to come.”
Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer said EY’s new space helps it continue growing as an integral part of the city’s flourishing professional services sector.
“Thanks to EY’s continued investment in our city, Louisville’s business services cluster is leading the way in innovative back office support,” said Mayor Fischer. “We congratulate EY on officially opening their forward-thinking and efficient center for doing business on a global level, and we look forward to supporting EY’s team.”
Sen. Gerald Neal, of Louisville, welcomed the new jobs to the state’s 33rd District.
“This investment and commitment in our community will provide much-needed jobs and a boost to our local economy,” Sen. Neal said. “We look forward to a long and prosperous partnership.”
Rep. Darryl Owens, of Louisville, said the company’s new office was the product of a group effort and proof the city is a major driver of commerce.
“This opening is great news for our community, especially those who will benefit from these new jobs and the businesses that EY serves,” Rep. Owens said. “I want to thank its leaders for making this investment, and I appreciate the local and state cooperative spirit that made this announcement, and others like it, possible. This further solidifies our well-earned reputation as the commonwealth’s economic engine.”
EY traces its roots to the early 1900s with the founding of two accounting firms; Ernst & Ernst in Cleveland, and Arthur Young & Co. in Chicago. Their 1989 merger created Ernst & Young, which then became Ernst & Young LLP.
The firm is a member firm of the global EY organization whose members provide assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services to many of the world’s largest companies. EY operates in 152 countries and employs 231,000 people globally.
To encourage the investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority in February 2017 preliminarily approved the company for tax incentives up to $1 million through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive allows a company to keep a portion of its investment over the agreement term through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments by meeting job and investment targets.
In addition, the firm can receive resources from the Kentucky Skills Network. Through the Kentucky Skills Network, companies can receive no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job training incentives. In fiscal year 2017, the Kentucky Skills Network provided training for nearly 95,000 Kentuckians and 5,000 companies from a variety of industry sectors.
For more information on EY, visit www.ey.com.
Mayor Greg Fischer urged citizens, businesses and nonprofits to donate used laptop computers during the Computer Donation Day on Saturday, Jan. 27 at the new South Central Regional Library.
Donated laptop computers will have all data wiped and be refurbished by Fern Creek High School students in a program highlighted by Mayor Fischer on Jan. 4 in the annual State of the City address.
About 100 Fern Creek High students refurbish computers that are donated by companies, learning and practicing new career-oriented skills. The refurbished computers are provided to Metro Housing Authority residents, opening new opportunities for cost-savings, online education and career-seeking.
“Here’s a chance for citizens to make a difference with extra punch — you’re helping a student build skills that they’ll use through their careers, and citizens in need of more opportunities get a tool that’s become absolutely necessary in today’s economy,” Mayor Fischer said. “I urge every citizen to find that old computer and drop it off at our beautiful new South Central Regional Library.”
The Computer Donation Day will be 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, January 27, at the South Central Regional Library, 7300 Jefferson Blvd. The program will only accept laptop computers at this time due limited storage space for the computers. For more information go to: https://louisvilleky.gov/events/used-computer-drive
Layla George, a Louisville native, joins Olmsted Parks Conservancy as its next President and CEO. George has a broad background in non-profit leadership, fundraising, and land conservation along with experience in farming and the local foods movement.
“Frederick Law Olmsted had a vision for these urban parks to be open and accessible natural areas that should be forever protected and preserved. Olmsted Parks Conservancy has done a magnificent job carrying out this vision and it is an honor to be joining such an important and dynamic organization,” stated George.
Most recently, George served as the Director of Development for Louisville Public Media for five years. During her tenure, she successfully completed a $7 million capital campaign and increased revenue from individuals by 185%.
Vanderbilt University Owen School of Business, in recognition of the increasing importance of non-profit organizations, awarded George a full-tuition scholarship for an MBA degree. She will graduate this spring. She is a member of the Leadership Louisville Class of 2014.
George arrives just as Olmsted Parks Conservancy is ready to implement a new Strategic Plan to strengthen its work to restore, enhance and forever protect the Frederick Law Olmsted Parks and Parkways. The Conservancy has invested more than $35 million to keep these valuable community assets at a high standard.
“Layla’s success in fundraising, her management experience and feedback from all who have worked with her make clear that she is the ideal leader to take the Conservancy into its next critical phase of growth,” said Earl Jones, Olmsted Parks Conservancy Board Chair.
The first day in the office for George will be February 5.
Mayor Greg Fischer today announced the appointment of Chris Seidt as Director of Information Technology.
“Louisville Metro has been recognized as one of the most innovative, forward-facing cities in the U.S., and our city government has a Department of Information Technology that can deliver the people-friendly solutions of today and tomorrow,” Mayor Fischer said. “Chris Seidt has been in the middle of many of our innovation efforts as a respected member of the IT team.”
Seidt has worked for the city’s Department of Information Technology since 2008, occupying roles including Network Engineer and IT Operations Manager.
He enters the Director position after more than a year as the city IT Department’s Civic Technology Manager. In this role, he developed the Louisville Fiber Infrastructure Technology project, advised city leaders on broadband and fiber technology, and developed partnerships for Smart City technologies.
“I’ve been proud to be a part of an IT Department that works every day to deliver excellent technology solutions to citizens and our colleagues, and I look forward to working with the team and Mayor Fischer to create more innovative technology solutions for Louisville,” Seidt said.
Seidt begins the new role immediately. He will report to Grace Simrall, the city’s Chief of Civic Innovation.
Photo: Neighborhood Place
Neighborhood Place partners offer workshops and services in January to benefit all family members including a Healthy Living Club, two dates to meet with Legal Aid representatives, an energy management workshop as well as two employment recruitment events. To learn more about these offerings and several others please refer to the list below.
Jan. 8, ElderCare 4 Families Employment Recruitment at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 313-4635 for more information. An employment recruiter will be on-hand from ElderCare 4 Families, an in-home non-medical care service for seniors that provides assistance such as cooking, cleaning, laundry and personal care.
Mondays and Thursdays, YMCA’s “Caring and Learning with Me” program at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd., side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Call Keyonna Humphrey at 974-8457 for more information and to register. This free program provides a wonderful learning environment for children ages 3-5 years old and their caregivers focusing on play and exploration. The adult caregiver is required to attend with the child/ren and you may also bring other children ages (0-2). Sponsored by the YMCA with support from First Neighborhood Place.
Jan. 9, Foster Parent Recruitment Meeting at First Neighborhood Place, 6 – 8 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd., side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Call 595-5437 (KIDS) for more information. Detailed information will be provided on the requirements and process of how to become a foster or adoptive parent. Information such as an explanation of foster care, special needs adoption, and information on foster parent training classes will be provided. Sponsored by Kentucky Foster Care and the training classes will be provided. Sponsored by Kentucky Foster Care and the Special Needs Adoption Program.
Jan. 9, Healthy Living Club at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place, Call 363-1483 for more information. Classes are open to anyone interested in gaining more knowledge to live a better and more fulfilling life. Monthly meetings are on the second Tuesday of every month to discuss healthy living and to get the support you need to eat better, get active, and lose weight. This month, a representative from Family Health Center will discuss “A New Year and a New You.” Come and join the fun and fellowship.
Jan. 9, Blood Pressure Checks at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 313-4635 for more information. Louisville Metro Health and Wellness health educators will provide free blood pressure checks.
Jan. 11, A Healthy Journey for Two Educational Baby Shower at First Neighborhood Place, 1- 3 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd. For more information and to RSVP, contact Mendy Mason at 502-341-5400. A Healthy Journey for Two is an educational baby shower open to any expectant mothers. The class will include a range of information and resources, as well as free baby items, gift cards, prizes, and snacks. Hosted by Seven Counties and KIDSNow. Fathers are welcome but must be registered.
Jan. 16, Sodexo Hiring Opportunities at First Neighborhood Place, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd., side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Call 313-4700 for more information. Sodexo, a food-service agency, will provide on-the-spot interviews for positions with Jewish Hospital, Our Lady of Peace and University of Louisville Hospital. Bring your resume and be prepared for an interview. This is one of Sodexo’s busiest hiring seasons. Stop by if you are looking for employment that can lead to a full-time or part-time position.
Jan. 17, Community Dental Care Information Sessions
Call 366-4442 for more information. Community Dental Care is a full-service dental organization designed to increase access to health care in communities with the goal of improving the overall health of the population. Representatives will be on site to provide information about services offered and to assist in scheduling appointments for dental needs or for pediatric health needs.
- South Jefferson Neighborhood Place – Fairdale location, 1000 Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- South Jefferson Neighborhood Place – Valley Location, 10200 Dixie Hwy., 1:30 – 3 p.m.
Thursdays, Jan. 18 – March 8, 4 Your Child Dads Making the Difference at NorthWest Neighborhood Place, 4 – 8 p.m.
Located at 4018 W. Market St. For more information or to register for the upcoming weekly workshops, please contact Dr. Cheri Langley at 709-9323 or by email at 4YourChild@Outlook.com. “4 Your Child” is an eight-week fatherhood program that aims to improve the quantity and quality of fathers’ involvement by integrating responsible parenting, economic stability, and relationship education services. Participants may be compensated for their time up to $220 but registration is required.
Jan. 23 and 25, Legal Aid Representative Sessions
A representative from Legal Aid will be on hand to discuss issues surrounding domestic violence, Emergency Protective Orders and making a safety plan for all family members. Stop by to discuss your situation. All matters are confidential.
- Jan. 23, First Neighborhood Place, 1503 Rangeland Rd. . (W.D. Bruce Building_ door #24), 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Call 313-4700 for more info.
- Jan. 25, South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1000 Neighborhood Place, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Call 363-1483 for more info.
Jan. 30, Energy Management Workshop at the First Neighborhood Place, side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 1 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Road. Call 313-4728 or 313-4700 for registration. Project Warm’s free workshops help families take control of their energy usage and learn “do-it-yourself” energy-saving tips. Free supplies will be distributed at the end of the workshop such as clear plastic/tape for windows, caulk to seal openings around windows and sealing foam