Voter Education Glossary
Understanding Louisville Metro Government & Policy
This comprehensive glossary explains 351 terms related to Louisville Metro government, policy, and civic engagement. Each term includes Louisville-specific context and explains why it matters to you as a voter.
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311 System
A non-emergency phone number and digital platform for residents to request city services, report issues, and get information. 311 systems […]
Read Full Definition → A
Absentee Ballot
A ballot you can request to vote by mail if you can’t vote in person. In Kentucky, you must have […]
Read Full Definition → Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
A small secondary housing unit on the same lot as a single-family home. Examples: garage apartments, basement units, backyard cottages, […]
Read Full Definition → Achievement Gap
The persistent disparity in academic performance between different groups of students, particularly between white students and students of color, and […]
Read Full Definition → Affordable Housing Crisis
The shortage of housing that low- and moderate-income families can afford, typically defined as spending no more than 30% of […]
Read Full Definition → After-School Programs
Supervised activities and enrichment programs for school-age children during the hours between school dismissal and parents’ return from work, typically […]
Read Full Definition → Air Pollution Control District (APCD)
The local government agency responsible for monitoring air quality and enforcing air pollution regulations within Louisville Metro. APCD issues permits […]
Read Full Definition → Air Quality
Measure of pollutants in air, tracked by EPA Air Quality Index (AQI). Poor air quality causes asthma, heart disease, and […]
Read Full Definition → Air Quality Monitoring
Measuring concentrations of air pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5), ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and volatile organic compounds to assess health risks […]
Read Full Definition → Anti-Displacement
Policies and programs preventing existing residents from being forced out of their neighborhoods by rising rents, property taxes, or other […]
Read Full Definition → Apprenticeship Program
Structured training combining paid on-the-job learning with classroom instruction, resulting in skilled trade certification. Typically 2-5 years. Apprentices earn while […]
Read Full Definition → Appropriation
Money officially allocated by Metro Council for a specific purpose. Once appropriated, departments can spend it. Think of it like […]
Read Full Definition → Audit
Independent review of city finances to ensure accuracy and compliance. Annual audits required by law. —
Read Full Definition → B
Backup Power Generation
Diesel or natural gas generators that provide electricity to data centers during utility power outages, ensuring continuous operation. A large […]
Read Full Definition → Bail Reform
Reducing reliance on cash bail (where only rich people can afford to leave jail before trial) and using risk assessment […]
Read Full Definition → Balanced Budget
Revenue equals expenditures – no deficit spending. Required by law for Louisville. Dave’s budget is fully balanced.
Read Full Definition → Ballot Access
The requirements a candidate or political party must meet to appear on the ballot. In Kentucky, candidates for Louisville Mayor […]
Read Full Definition → Ballot Measure
A question placed on the ballot for voters to decide directly, rather than through elected representatives. In Kentucky, ballot measures […]
Read Full Definition → Ban the Box
Policy removing criminal history questions from initial job applications (the ‘box’ asking about convictions), delaying background checks until later in […]
Read Full Definition → Beat Policing
A law enforcement strategy where officers are permanently assigned to specific geographic areas (beats) to build relationships with residents, understand […]
Read Full Definition → Bike Infrastructure
Facilities enabling safe cycling: protected bike lanes (physical separation from traffic), conventional bike lanes (painted), multi-use paths, bike parking, and […]
Read Full Definition → Board of Zoning Adjustment (BOZA)
A quasi-judicial board that hears appeals of zoning decisions and grants variances (exceptions) to zoning rules when strict application would […]
Read Full Definition → Body Cameras
Wearable video cameras that record police interactions with the public, providing evidence for investigations and accountability. When implemented with clear […]
Read Full Definition → Body-Worn Cameras
Small video cameras attached to police uniforms that record officer interactions with the public. LMPD officers are required to wear […]
Read Full Definition → Bond
A loan the city takes out for major capital projects (like building a new library). Paid back over many years, […]
Read Full Definition → Bond Issue
Government borrowing for major capital projects (roads, sewers, buildings) by selling bonds that investors purchase, receiving interest over 10-30 years. […]
Read Full Definition → Brady List
A confidential list of police officers who have credibility problems (lying, evidence tampering) that prosecutors must disclose to defense attorneys […]
Read Full Definition → Broadband Access
High-speed internet service capable of supporting modern online activities like video conferencing, streaming, remote work, and online education. The FCC […]
Read Full Definition → Brownfield Redevelopment
Cleaning up and reusing contaminated industrial sites for new development. Federal and state programs provide funding and liability protections for […]
Read Full Definition → Budget Committee
The Metro Council committee responsible for reviewing the mayor’s proposed budget, holding budget hearings, and recommending changes before the full […]
Read Full Definition → Budget Variance
The difference between what was budgeted and what was actually spent. If we budget $10M for roads and spend $12M, […]
Read Full Definition → Budget-Neutral
A policy or program that doesn’t increase the total budget—it’s funded by reallocating existing spending, eliminating waste, or finding new […]
Read Full Definition → Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
High-quality bus service with dedicated lanes, level boarding, off-board fare payment, and frequent service (every 5-10 minutes). Provides rail-like experience […]
Read Full Definition → C
Campaign Contribution Limits
The maximum amount individuals and organizations can donate to political candidates. In Kentucky, individuals can give up to $2,000 per […]
Read Full Definition → Campaign Finance
The system regulating how political candidates raise and spend money for their campaigns. In Kentucky, candidates must report all contributions […]
Read Full Definition → Capital Budget
Money spent on long-term assets like buildings, roads, and equipment that last multiple years. If it lasts longer than one […]
Read Full Definition → Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Louisville Metro’s multi-year plan for major infrastructure investments like roads, sewers, parks, buildings, and equipment typically costing over $100,000 and […]
Read Full Definition → Capital Outlay
Purchases of equipment, vehicles, or infrastructure that last multiple years. A new fire truck is capital outlay. Gasoline for the […]
Read Full Definition → Cash Bail Reform
Changes to the bail system to reduce jailing people simply because they’re poor. Traditional cash bail requires defendants to pay […]
Read Full Definition → Chronic Disease Management
Ongoing medical care, monitoring, and lifestyle support for long-term conditions like diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and hypertension. Effective chronic disease […]
Read Full Definition → City-County Merger
Louisville’s 2003 consolidation of the old city of Louisville government with Jefferson County government into one ‘Louisville Metro’ government. The […]
Read Full Definition → Civic Engagement
Active participation in community and government through voting, attending meetings, volunteering, organizing, advocacy, and working to improve communities. Civic engagement […]
Read Full Definition → Civic Technology (Civic Tech)
Technology tools and platforms that enable citizen engagement with government, facilitate community organizing, or improve civic life. Examples include apps […]
Read Full Definition → Civilian Oversight
Giving non-police citizens authority to review police policies, investigate complaints, and recommend reforms—providing an independent check on police power. Civilian […]
Read Full Definition → Civilian Oversight Board
An independent body of community members with authority to review police policies, investigate complaints, recommend discipline, and ensure accountability. Effective […]
Read Full Definition → Clawback Provision
A contract clause that allows government to recover tax incentives or grants if a company fails to meet promised job […]
Read Full Definition → Clearance Rate
The percentage of reported crimes that result in an arrest or case closure. Higher clearance rates indicate effective investigation and […]
Read Full Definition → Climate Action Plan
A strategic roadmap outlining how a city will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for climate change impacts like extreme […]
Read Full Definition → Cloud Computing
The delivery of computing services (servers, storage, databases, software) over the internet rather than from local devices. When you use […]
Read Full Definition → Co-Responder Model
Police officer + mental health professional responding together to certain calls. Better outcomes, safer for everyone.
Read Full Definition → Co-Responder Program
A model pairing police officers with mental health clinicians or social workers to respond together to mental health, substance abuse, […]
Read Full Definition → Collateral Consequences
Legal and social penalties that continue after people serve criminal sentences, including barriers to employment, housing, education, voting, professional licenses, […]
Read Full Definition → Collective Bargaining Agreement
The contract between Louisville Metro Government and the police union (FOP) governing officer pay, benefits, disciplinary procedures, and working conditions. […]
Read Full Definition → Colocation Facility
A data center where multiple companies rent space to house their own servers and equipment, sharing the building’s power, cooling, […]
Read Full Definition → Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO)
A system where stormwater runoff and sewage flow through the same pipes to treatment plants. During heavy rain, these combined […]
Read Full Definition → Committee System
The organizational structure where Metro Council members serve on specialized committees that review legislation before full council votes. Louisville has […]
Read Full Definition → Commonwealth Attorney
The chief prosecutor for each Kentucky county, elected to prosecute felony crimes. In Jefferson County, the Commonwealth Attorney’s office handles […]
Read Full Definition → Community Benefits Agreement (CBA)
Legally-binding contract between developers and community organizations outlining specific benefits the project will provide: local jobs, affordable housing, environmental protections, […]
Read Full Definition → Community Center
Public facilities offering recreation programs, meeting spaces, classes, and social services for neighborhood residents. Community centers typically provide gyms, fitness […]
Read Full Definition → Community Detective
Police detective assigned to a specific district focused on preventing crime through community relationships, not just solving crimes after they […]
Read Full Definition → Community Development
Efforts to improve the economic, social, and environmental conditions of specific neighborhoods through resident-led initiatives, nonprofit organizations, and government programs. […]
Read Full Definition → Community Development Corporation (CDC)
Nonprofit organizations focused on revitalizing specific geographic communities (typically low-income neighborhoods) through affordable housing development, economic development, community organizing, and […]
Read Full Definition → Community Engagement
Meaningful involvement of community members in government decisions affecting their neighborhoods—going beyond information-sharing to genuine collaboration and shared power. Authentic […]
Read Full Definition → Community Health Worker
Trusted community members trained to provide health education, connect neighbors to services, advocate for community health needs, and bridge the […]
Read Full Definition → Community Input
Opportunities for residents to provide feedback on programs and priorities. Monthly community meetings, participatory budgeting, etc.
Read Full Definition → Community Land Trust (CLT)
A nonprofit organization that owns land permanently, leasing it to homeowners or developers under long-term renewable ground leases with resale […]
Read Full Definition → Community Organizing
Bringing neighbors together to identify shared concerns, build collective power, and take action to improve their community. Community organizing empowers […]
Read Full Definition → Community Policing
A philosophy where police and residents work together as partners to solve problems and prevent crime, not just respond to […]
Read Full Definition → Community Resilience
Communities’ ability to withstand and recover from shocks (disasters, economic downturns, public health crises) through strong social networks, diverse economies, […]
Read Full Definition → Community Trust
How much residents trust police and government. Mini substations increase trust by average of 35% in cities using this model.
Read Full Definition → Community Wealth Building
Economic development strategies that build assets and ownership in communities rather than extracting wealth to distant shareholders. Community wealth building […]
Read Full Definition → Community Wellness Center
One-stop facility providing primary healthcare (nurse practitioners), mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, social services navigation, and community programs. Think […]
Read Full Definition → Competitive Pay
Salaries comparable to private sector jobs or surrounding jurisdictions. Dave’s budget brings Louisville Metro salaries in line with surrounding counties […]
Read Full Definition → Complete Streets
Streets designed for all users—pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, and drivers—not just cars. Includes sidewalks, bike lanes, bus stops, crosswalks, and […]
Read Full Definition → Conflict Mediation
Community-based dispute resolution that addresses conflicts before they turn violent. Trained mediators help resolve disputes without police or criminal justice […]
Read Full Definition → Consent Decree
A court-enforceable agreement between a police department and the U.S. Department of Justice requiring specific reforms after a federal investigation […]
Read Full Definition → Cooling Infrastructure
The systems data centers use to prevent servers from overheating, including chillers, cooling towers, and air conditioning that can use […]
Read Full Definition → Cost Savings
Money saved through prevention vs. crisis response. Wellness centers save $2-3 for every $1 spent. Youth programs save ~$150,000 per […]
Read Full Definition → Cost-Benefit Analysis
Comparing the costs of a program to its benefits to determine if it’s worth the investment. Dave’s budget programs all […]
Read Full Definition → Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)
Specially-trained police officers who respond to mental health crises using de-escalation, communication, and connection to services rather than force or […]
Read Full Definition → Cultural Competence
The ability of individuals and organizations to effectively interact with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, recognizing cultural differences, avoiding assumptions, […]
Read Full Definition → Current Administration’s Budget
The current administration’s approved $1.2 billion budget for FY 2025-2026. Traditional approach with centralized services and reactive policing.
Read Full Definition → Cybersecurity
Protection of computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, unauthorized access, and damage. Government cybersecurity must protect resident data […]
Read Full Definition → D
Data Center
A large facility that houses computer servers and networking equipment used to store, process, and distribute digital information for businesses […]
Read Full Definition → Data Center Tax Abatement
Property tax reductions or exemptions offered by local governments to attract data center development, typically lasting 10-15 years. These incentives […]
Read Full Definition → Data Privacy
Protection of individuals’ personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. Government collects massive amounts of sensitive data (health records, […]
Read Full Definition → De-escalation Training
Teaching police officers techniques to reduce tension and resolve situations without force—using time, distance, communication, and tactical repositioning. De-escalation training […]
Read Full Definition → Debt Ceiling
Legal limit on how much the city can borrow. Set by state law and local ordinance.
Read Full Definition → Debt Service
Money used to pay back bonds (loans) the city took out for major projects. Like a mortgage payment. Louisville pays […]
Read Full Definition → Deficit
When spending exceeds revenue. Louisville cannot legally run a deficit in the general fund. Dave’s budget has zero deficit.
Read Full Definition → Density
The number of housing units or people per acre. Higher density means more homes on same land, enabling walkable neighborhoods, […]
Read Full Definition → Dental Care Access
Ability to obtain preventive and restorative dental services necessary for oral health. Dental coverage is often separate from medical insurance, […]
Read Full Definition → Digital Divide
The gap between people who have access to modern information technology (computers, smartphones, high-speed internet) and those who don’t, often […]
Read Full Definition → Digital Equity
Ensuring all residents have access to affordable internet, devices, and digital skills necessary for full participation in modern society. Digital […]
Read Full Definition → Digital Infrastructure
The physical systems that enable internet and digital services, including data centers, fiber optic cables, cell towers, and power grids. […]
Read Full Definition → Digital Services
Government services delivered online rather than requiring in-person visits or phone calls, such as permit applications, bill payment, service requests, […]
Read Full Definition → Disciplinary Matrix
A written schedule showing the range of discipline (counseling, suspension, termination) for various policy violations, ensuring consistency and transparency. A […]
Read Full Definition → Diversion Program
An alternative to traditional prosecution that redirects low-level offenders (especially first-timers and juveniles) into treatment, counseling, or community service instead […]
Read Full Definition → Diversion Programs
Alternatives to jail for non-violent offenders (treatment, community service, monitoring). More effective than incarceration and much cheaper.
Read Full Definition → Don’t Have ID?
You can still vote by signing an affidavit stating you are the registered voter. —
Read Full Definition → E
Early Childhood Education
Educational programs for children from birth to age 5, including prekindergarten, Head Start, and childcare programs. High-quality early childhood education […]
Read Full Definition → Early Intervention System
A database tracking officer behavior—complaints, use of force, vehicle pursuits, etc.—to identify officers showing warning signs of problems before serious […]
Read Full Definition → Early Voting
The period before Election Day when registered voters can cast ballots in person at designated locations. In Kentucky, early voting […]
Read Full Definition → Early Warning System
A data-driven tool that tracks officer behavior patterns (use of force, complaints, missed trainings, etc.) to identify officers who may […]
Read Full Definition → Economic Development Incentive
Tax breaks, grants, or other financial benefits offered by government to attract businesses or development. Common types include: tax abatements, […]
Read Full Definition → Economic Impact Study
An analysis estimating how a proposed development (like a data center) will affect the local economy through job creation, tax […]
Read Full Definition → Education Attainment
The highest level of education individuals have completed, measured by census and surveys (less than high school, high school diploma, […]
Read Full Definition → Educational Benefits
Programs that help employees pay for college, job training, or professional development. Dave’s budget includes tuition assistance for employees pursuing […]
Read Full Definition → Election Certification
The official process where election results are verified, audited, and declared final by election officials. In Jefferson County, the County […]
Read Full Definition → Election Observer
An individual authorized to monitor polling places and vote counting to ensure proper election procedures and transparency. In Kentucky, political […]
Read Full Definition → Electrical Substation
A facility where voltage is transformed from high to low or vice versa, and where electrical connections are made. Large […]
Read Full Definition → Energy Burden
The percentage of household income spent on home energy costs (electricity, gas, fuel oil). Energy burden averages 3-4% for median-income […]
Read Full Definition → Energy Efficiency
Using less energy to perform the same task or produce the same result, typically through better technology, insulation, or practices. […]
Read Full Definition → Enterprise Zone
Designated area where businesses receive tax incentives and regulatory relief to encourage investment in economically distressed neighborhoods. Federal and state […]
Read Full Definition → Environmental Compliance
Adherence to federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations governing air quality, water quality, waste management, stormwater, and pollution. […]
Read Full Definition → Environmental Justice
Fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regarding environmental laws and policies. Addresses how environmental burdens (pollution, toxic sites) […]
Read Full Definition → Equitable Development
Development that provides benefits to all residents, particularly low-income residents and communities of color, without causing displacement. Equitable development includes […]
Read Full Definition → Eviction Prevention
Programs and policies that help tenants avoid eviction through emergency rental assistance, legal aid, mediation, and tenant protections. Much cheaper […]
Read Full Definition → Evidence-Based Budgeting
Making spending decisions based on proven results from research and other cities’ experiences, not political promises or assumptions. Dave’s budget […]
Read Full Definition → Executive Branch
The Mayor and departments that implement laws and deliver services. The “doers” of government.
Read Full Definition → Expungement
The legal process of sealing or destroying criminal records so they don’t appear in background checks, helping people move on […]
Read Full Definition → F
Fair Chance Hiring
Employment practices that give people with criminal records fair opportunity for jobs by delaying background checks until after initial screening, […]
Read Full Definition → Fiber Optic Network
High-speed internet infrastructure using light pulses through glass cables to transmit data at speeds up to 100 times faster than […]
Read Full Definition → Fire Prevention Center
A community-based facility focused on fire safety education, smoke detector installation, home safety inspections, and fire prevention outreach—especially for seniors […]
Read Full Definition → Fire Prevention Centers
Community facilities focused on teaching fire safety, conducting free home inspections, installing smoke detectors, and preventing fires before they start. […]
Read Full Definition → Fiscal Year (FY)
Louisville’s budget year runs from July 1 to June 30. FY 2025-2026 means July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. […]
Read Full Definition → Flood Prevention
Infrastructure and planning strategies that reduce flooding risk to protect lives, property, and public safety. Approaches include stormwater management systems, […]
Read Full Definition → Food Desert
Areas where residents lack access to affordable, nutritious food—typically defined as living more than 1 mile from a supermarket in […]
Read Full Definition → Frequency (Transit)
How often transit arrives—the most important factor in ridership. High frequency = every 10-15 minutes or better, meaning riders don’t […]
Read Full Definition → G
General Election
The main election where voters choose between candidates from different parties (or independents) for public office. In Louisville, the mayoral […]
Read Full Definition → Gentrification
The transformation of low-income neighborhoods through influx of wealthier residents, businesses, and development, increasing property values and costs while displacing […]
Read Full Definition → Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Technology that captures, stores, analyzes, and displays geographically referenced data—essentially creating maps with layers of information. Government uses GIS for […]
Read Full Definition → Green Infrastructure
Nature-based systems that manage stormwater, reduce urban heat, improve air quality, and provide community benefits using vegetation, soil, and natural […]
Read Full Definition → Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Gases (primarily carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide) released by human activities that trap heat in the atmosphere and cause […]
Read Full Definition → Greenway
Linear parks following creeks, rivers, or abandoned rail lines, providing walking/biking trails, recreation access, wildlife habitat, and green infrastructure managing […]
Read Full Definition → H
Harm Reduction
A public health approach that meets people struggling with addiction where they are, providing services to reduce health risks and […]
Read Full Definition → Health Insurance Coverage
Having public or private health insurance that pays for medical care, preventing financial catastrophe from healthcare costs. The uninsured delay […]
Read Full Definition → Home Rule
Constitutional authority allowing local governments to pass laws on local matters without seeking permission from the state legislature for every […]
Read Full Definition → Hot Spot Policing
Data-driven law enforcement strategy concentrating resources on small geographic areas with disproportionately high crime rates. Typically 5-10% of locations generate […]
Read Full Definition → Housing First
Homelessness intervention providing permanent housing without preconditions (sobriety, treatment compliance, employment), then offering supportive services. Proven more effective and cheaper […]
Read Full Definition → Housing Trust Fund
Dedicated public fund for affordable housing development and preservation, capitalized through taxes, fees, or budget allocations. Provides grants and loans […]
Read Full Definition → Hyperscale Data Center
An extremely large data center (typically 500,000+ square feet) operated by major tech companies like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, […]
Read Full Definition → I
Implicit Bias Training
Training designed to help officers recognize and reduce unconscious stereotypes and prejudices that affect decision-making. Studies show everyone has implicit […]
Read Full Definition → Inclusionary Zoning
A policy requiring developers to include affordable housing units in new residential projects, or pay into an affordable housing fund. […]
Read Full Definition → Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB)
Tax-exempt bonds issued by government to finance manufacturing facilities. Interest savings reduce project costs, attracting industrial development. Company owns facility; […]
Read Full Definition → Infrastructure Maintenance
Ongoing repair and upkeep of public assets (roads, bridges, sewers, water lines, buildings, parks) to prevent deterioration and extend useful […]
Read Full Definition → Innovation Lab
A dedicated team within government focused on testing new approaches to persistent problems, using rapid prototyping, user research, and experimentation. […]
Read Full Definition → Insurance Premium Tax
Tax on insurance policies (auto, home, life, etc.). The state collects it and shares a portion with cities. You don’t […]
Read Full Definition → Intergovernmental Revenue
Money the city receives from state and federal governments, usually through grants. Like when the federal government gives money for […]
Read Full Definition → J
Jefferson County Attorney
An independently elected official (not appointed by the mayor) who serves as legal advisor to Louisville Metro Government and prosecutes […]
Read Full Definition → Jefferson County Clerk
– Website: jeffersoncountyclerk.org – Phone: (502) 574-6100 – Address: 527 W Jefferson St, Louisville, KY 40202
Read Full Definition → Jefferson County Clerk (Election Duties)
The elected official responsible for conducting elections in Jefferson County, including maintaining voter registration records, providing ballots, managing polling locations, […]
Read Full Definition → Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS)
The public school district serving Louisville Metro and Jefferson County, operating 173 schools with approximately 100,000 students and 15,000 employees, […]
Read Full Definition → Juvenile Justice
Separate legal system for people under 18, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment. Juvenile records typically sealed at age 18, giving young […]
Read Full Definition → K
Kentucky Attorney General
– Election Fraud Hotline: 1-800-328-VOTE (8683) – Website: ag.ky.gov
Read Full Definition → Kentucky State Board of Elections
– Website: elect.ky.gov – Phone: (502) 573-7100
Read Full Definition → Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Measurable goals used to track program success. Example: “Reduce violent crime by 15% in Year 2” is a KPI.
Read Full Definition → L
League of Women Voters of Louisville
– Nonpartisan voter education – Website: lwvlouisville.org – Publishes voter guides
Read Full Definition → Legal Aid
Free or low-cost civil legal services for low-income people who can’t afford attorneys. Legal aid helps with housing (eviction defense, […]
Read Full Definition → Legal Aid Society
– Free legal help for low-income residents – Phone: (502) 584-1254 – Website: laslou.org
Read Full Definition → Legislative Branch
Metro Council that makes laws and approves budgets. The “rule-makers” of government.
Read Full Definition → LG&E (Louisville Gas and Electric)
The investor-owned utility providing electricity and natural gas to Louisville and surrounding areas, serving approximately 400,000 electric and 325,000 gas […]
Read Full Definition → Line Item
A specific spending category in the budget (e.g., “Police Officer Salaries” or “Park Maintenance”). The more line items you see, […]
Read Full Definition → Literacy Programs
Educational services that teach reading and writing skills to children and adults, ranging from early childhood literacy initiatives to adult […]
Read Full Definition → Living Wage
The hourly wage needed for a full-time worker to afford basic necessities (housing, food, healthcare, transportation) in a specific area. […]
Read Full Definition → Local Hiring
Policy requiring or incentivizing contractors and businesses to hire residents from the local area, particularly for projects using public funds […]
Read Full Definition → LouieStat
Louisville Metro Government’s performance management system that tracks key metrics across departments to improve accountability, identify problems early, and make […]
Read Full Definition → Louisville Courier-Journal
– Local news and government coverage – Website: courier-journal.com
Read Full Definition → Louisville Fire Department
The fire protection and emergency medical services agency serving Louisville Metro with approximately 700 firefighters operating from 22 fire stations. […]
Read Full Definition → Louisville Forward
Louisville Metro Government’s economic development agency, responsible for attracting new businesses, supporting existing companies, and managing workforce development programs. Louisville […]
Read Full Definition → Louisville Free Public Library
– Free access to government documents – Computers and internet access – Help navigating government websites —
Read Full Definition → Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD)
The law enforcement agency serving Louisville Metro with approximately 1,200 officers and 400 civilian employees. LMPD’s budget is about $220 […]
Read Full Definition → Louisville Water Company
A publicly-owned utility that provides drinking water to approximately 860,000 people in Louisville Metro and surrounding counties, drawing water from […]
Read Full Definition → M
Magnet School
A public school with specialized curriculum or teaching approach (STEM, arts, Montessori, etc.) designed to attract diverse students from across […]
Read Full Definition → Main Street Program
National model for revitalizing historic commercial districts through: organization (creating stakeholder groups), promotion (marketing the district), design (improving aesthetics), and […]
Read Full Definition → Maternal Health
The health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Maternal health outcomes in the US lag other developed […]
Read Full Definition → Mayor-Council Government
A form of local government where voters elect both a mayor (chief executive) and a council (legislature) separately. Louisville uses […]
Read Full Definition → Megawatt (MW)
A unit of electrical power equal to one million watts, used to measure data center electricity consumption. One megawatt can […]
Read Full Definition → Mental Health Crisis Response Team
Social workers or mental health professionals paired with police officers (or responding alone when appropriate) to mental health emergencies. When […]
Read Full Definition → Mental Health Services
Counseling, therapy, psychiatric care for mental health conditions. Wellness centers provide this, reducing reliance on emergency rooms and police.
Read Full Definition → Metrics
Measurements used to assess program effectiveness. Crime rates, ER visit rates, graduation rates, etc.
Read Full Definition → Metro Council
Louisville’s 26-member legislative body that passes laws and approves the budget. Like city council in other cities, but called “Metro […]
Read Full Definition → Metro Council Districts
The 26 geographic areas that each elect one member to Louisville Metro Council. Districts are redrawn every 10 years after […]
Read Full Definition → Metro Employee Compensation Plan
A comprehensive plan to provide competitive compensation and benefits to Louisville Metro government employees, ensuring fair wages that attract and […]
Read Full Definition → Metro Ethics Commission
An independent board that investigates complaints of ethical violations by Metro government employees and officials, including conflicts of interest and […]
Read Full Definition → Metro Parks System
Louisville’s public parks system managing 122 parks totaling over 15,000 acres including Cherokee, Iroquois, Shawnee, and Seneca parks plus numerous […]
Read Full Definition → Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD)
A special-purpose government agency that provides wastewater treatment and stormwater management for Louisville Metro and surrounding areas, serving approximately 860,000 […]
Read Full Definition → Microenterprise Development
Programs supporting very small businesses (typically 1-5 employees) through micro-loans, training, and technical assistance. Focuses on entrepreneurs starting businesses with […]
Read Full Definition → Mini Police Substation
Small neighborhood police office (approximately 5,000 square feet) where 6 officers work rotating shifts for 24/7 coverage, assigned to walk […]
Read Full Definition → Missing Middle Housing
Housing types between single-family homes and large apartments: duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, townhomes, small apartment buildings. ‘Missing’ because zoning prohibits them […]
Read Full Definition → Mixed-Income Housing
Developments intentionally including units for various income levels—market-rate, moderate-income, and low-income—in same building or community. Promotes economic integration, reduces concentrated […]
Read Full Definition → N
Nature Center
Educational facilities providing environmental education, nature programs, hiking trails, and outdoor experiences, typically located within parks or natural areas. Nature […]
Read Full Definition → Needle Exchange Program
Public health services that provide clean syringes to people who inject drugs in exchange for used ones, preventing transmission of […]
Read Full Definition → No-Knock Warrant
A search warrant allowing police to enter a home without knocking or announcing themselves first. Courts grant no-knock warrants when […]
Read Full Definition → Nonpartisan Election
An election where candidates don’t run with party labels (Democrat, Republican, etc.) and party organizations don’t officially endorse. Louisville Metro […]
Read Full Definition → Nutrition Access
Ability to obtain healthy, affordable food necessary for proper nutrition and health. Nutrition access requires not just food availability but […]
Read Full Definition → O
Occupational Tax
Tax on wages earned by people working in Louisville (currently 1.45% for city services, 0.75% for county services = 2.2% […]
Read Full Definition → Olmsted Parks
A historic system of 18 parks and 6 parkways designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted’s firm (designer of New […]
Read Full Definition → Open Data
Government data made freely available to the public in machine-readable formats that anyone can access, use, and share without restrictions. […]
Read Full Definition → Open Source Software
Computer software with source code freely available for anyone to inspect, modify, and enhance. Open source software contrasts with proprietary […]
Read Full Definition → Operating Budget
Money spent on day-to-day operations like salaries, supplies, and services. As opposed to capital spending, these are ongoing costs that […]
Read Full Definition → Operating Expenses
Day-to-day costs like supplies, utilities, vehicle fuel, and equipment maintenance. Everything that isn’t salary or capital. Electricity bills, office supplies, […]
Read Full Definition → Opportunity Zone
Federal tax incentive program allowing investors to defer capital gains taxes by investing in designated low-income areas. Controversial: benefits wealthy […]
Read Full Definition → Ordinance
A local law passed by Metro Council and signed by the mayor (or passed over mayoral veto). Ordinances cover everything […]
Read Full Definition → Outdoor Recreation
Physical activities in natural settings including hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, camping, birdwatching, and nature exploration. Outdoor recreation provides exercise, mental […]
Read Full Definition → Overdose Prevention
Strategies to prevent deaths from drug overdoses, particularly opioid overdoses. Prevention includes naloxone (Narcan) distribution to reverse overdoses, education recognizing […]
Read Full Definition → Override
When Metro Council votes to pass a law despite the mayor’s veto. Requires more votes than the original passage (usually […]
Read Full Definition → P
Park Equity
Ensuring all residents have equal access to quality parks and recreation facilities regardless of neighborhood income, race, or geography. Park […]
Read Full Definition → Parking Minimums
Zoning requirements mandating minimum parking spaces for developments (e.g., 2 spaces per apartment). Increases costs, wastes land, encourages driving, and […]
Read Full Definition → Participatory Budgeting
Democratic process where residents directly vote on how to spend a portion of the public budget. YOU attend community meetings, […]
Read Full Definition → Pattern or Practice Investigation
A federal civil rights investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice examining whether a police department engages in systemic unconstitutional […]
Read Full Definition → Pedestrian Infrastructure
Facilities enabling safe walking: sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian signals, curb ramps, street lighting, and benches. Basic requirement for walkable neighborhoods but […]
Read Full Definition → Pension Contributions
Money the city pays into retirement funds for employees. Required by law and contract. Like matching your 401(k), but for […]
Read Full Definition → Performance-Based Compensation
Additional pay or bonuses based on meeting specific goals or demonstrating excellence. Part of comprehensive employee compensation beyond base salary […]
Read Full Definition → Permanent Supportive Housing
Affordable housing combined with supportive services (mental health, addiction treatment, case management) for people experiencing chronic homelessness or disabilities. Housing […]
Read Full Definition → Personnel Costs
Salaries, benefits, and payroll taxes for city employees. Usually 60-70% of most department budgets. This includes health insurance, retirement contributions, […]
Read Full Definition → Phased Implementation
Rolling out programs gradually over multiple years rather than all at once. Example: Building 12 mini substations in Year 1, […]
Read Full Definition → Pilot Program
Small-scale test of a program before full implementation. Some programs may pilot in one district before expanding citywide.
Read Full Definition → Planning Commission
A board that reviews proposed developments, zoning changes, and land use plans to ensure they align with Louisville’s Comprehensive Plan. […]
Read Full Definition → Playground
Outdoor recreation areas for children featuring equipment like swings, slides, climbing structures, and play areas. Quality playgrounds provide age-appropriate equipment, […]
Read Full Definition → Plea Bargain
An agreement where a defendant pleads guilty to reduced charges or receives a lighter sentence recommendation in exchange for avoiding […]
Read Full Definition → Police Accountability Board
A civilian oversight body with authority to review police misconduct complaints, investigate officers, and recommend discipline. Louisville currently lacks a […]
Read Full Definition → Police Union
The labor organization representing police officers in contract negotiations, grievances, and disciplinary appeals. Louisville’s Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) is […]
Read Full Definition → Political Action Committee (PAC)
An organization that collects political contributions from members and donates them to campaigns or causes. PACs must register with the […]
Read Full Definition → Poll Worker
A trained local citizen who staffs polling locations on Election Day and during early voting, checking voter registrations, providing ballots, […]
Read Full Definition → Polling Location
The physical place where voters in a precinct cast their ballots—typically schools, community centers, churches, or fire stations. In Jefferson […]
Read Full Definition → Position Reassignment
Moving employees to different jobs within government without layoffs. Example: Some administrative staff reassigned to wellness centers or community programs. […]
Read Full Definition → Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE)
A metric measuring how efficiently a data center uses electricity, calculated by dividing total facility energy use by energy used […]
Read Full Definition → Pre-K Expansion
Increasing access to quality preschool programs for 3- and 4-year-old children, particularly in low-income neighborhoods. Research shows pre-K yields $7 […]
Read Full Definition → Pre-Trial Detention
Holding someone in jail before their trial. Most people in Louisville Metro Corrections are pre-trial, not convicted criminals.
Read Full Definition → Precinct
A geographic area within Louisville where voters cast ballots at the same polling location. Jefferson County has approximately 380 precincts, […]
Read Full Definition → Pretrial Detention
Jailing criminal defendants before trial—before conviction, while presumed innocent. Pretrial detention is supposed to prevent flight risk or danger to […]
Read Full Definition → Pretrial Services
An agency that evaluates arrested people for release before trial, monitors compliance with release conditions, and connects defendants to services […]
Read Full Definition → Prevailing Wage
Hourly wage, benefits, and overtime paid to majority of workers in a particular occupation and area. Federal and some state […]
Read Full Definition → Prevention-First Approach
Investing in programs that prevent problems (crime, health crises, fires) before they happen, rather than only responding after problems occur. […]
Read Full Definition → Preventive Care
Healthcare that prevents disease and identifies problems early (screenings, vaccinations, health education). Saves money long-term.
Read Full Definition → Primary Care
Basic healthcare (checkups, common illnesses, chronic disease management). Wellness centers provide this through nurse practitioners.
Read Full Definition → Primary Election
An election where voters choose their party’s candidate who will run in the general election. In Kentucky, primaries are ‘closed,’ […]
Read Full Definition → Procedural Justice
The principle that people evaluate police legitimacy based on how they’re treated (fairness, respect, voice, neutrality) not just outcomes. When […]
Read Full Definition → Project Labor Agreement (PLA)
Pre-hire collective bargaining agreement between construction contractors and unions establishing wages, benefits, work rules, and dispute resolution for large projects. […]
Read Full Definition → Property Tax
Annual tax on real estate based on assessed property value. Major source of city revenue. If you own property in […]
Read Full Definition → Protected Bike Lane
Bike lanes physically separated from traffic by planters, posts, curbs, or parked cars. Dramatically safer than painted lanes, encouraging cycling […]
Read Full Definition → Provisional Ballot
A special ballot given to voters whose eligibility is unclear on Election Day (wrong precinct, name not in poll book, […]
Read Full Definition → Public Defender
A government-employed lawyer who represents people charged with crimes who cannot afford private attorneys. The Constitution guarantees everyone the right […]
Read Full Definition → Public Hearing
A formal meeting where citizens can speak directly to Metro Council or other government boards about proposed legislation, developments, or […]
Read Full Definition → Public Housing
Government-owned rental housing for low-income residents, operated by local housing authorities. Federally funded but chronically underfunded, leading to deteriorating conditions […]
Read Full Definition → Public Reporting
Regular reports to citizens on program progress and budget status. Quarterly reports proposed.
Read Full Definition → Public Safety Committee
The Metro Council committee overseeing police, fire, emergency services, and corrections. This committee reviews LMPD policies, approves contracts for public […]
Read Full Definition → Public Works Department
The government agency responsible for maintaining and building public infrastructure including roads, bridges, sidewalks, traffic signals, storm sewers, street lighting, […]
Read Full Definition → Q
Qualified Immunity
A legal doctrine that protects police officers from civil lawsuits unless they violated ‘clearly established’ constitutional rights. Qualified immunity makes […]
Read Full Definition → Questions?
If you don’t understand something in the budget, that’s OUR failure, not yours. Email info@rundaverun.org with questions and we’ll update […]
Read Full Definition → Quorum
The minimum number of members who must be present for Metro Council (or any official board) to conduct business legally. […]
Read Full Definition → R
Racial Profiling
Law enforcement targeting individuals for stops, searches, or arrests based on race, ethnicity, or national origin rather than evidence of […]
Read Full Definition → Rainy Day Fund (Reserve Fund)
Money set aside for emergencies, unexpected expenses, or economic downturns. Like your emergency savings account. Financially responsible cities have 10-15% […]
Read Full Definition → Rapid Rehousing
Short-term rental assistance (3-6 months) and services helping homeless families quickly move into permanent housing. More cost-effective than shelters, with […]
Read Full Definition → Recidivism
The rate at which released inmates return to jail or prison, measuring whether criminal justice programs successfully rehabilitate or merely […]
Read Full Definition → Recycling Program
A system that collects, processes, and converts waste materials into new products, conserving natural resources and reducing landfill use. Effective […]
Read Full Definition → Reentry Programs
Services helping released inmates successfully transition back to the community—housing assistance, job training, education, mental health treatment, substance abuse counseling. […]
Read Full Definition → Referendum
A type of ballot measure where voters approve or reject a law or action already taken by the legislature. A […]
Read Full Definition → Renewable Energy
Energy generated from naturally replenishing sources like solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal that don’t deplete over time and produce little […]
Read Full Definition → Rent Control
Government limits on rent increases, typically capping annual increases at inflation rate or fixed percentage. Protects tenants from rapid rent […]
Read Full Definition → Resolution
A formal statement or decision by Metro Council that doesn’t have the force of law. Like a statement of support […]
Read Full Definition → Response Time
The time between when a 911 call is placed and when police/fire/EMS arrive on scene. Measured separately for Priority 1 […]
Read Full Definition → Restorative Justice
An approach to crime that focuses on repairing harm and rehabilitating offenders through dialogue between victims, offenders, and community, rather […]
Read Full Definition → Return on Investment (ROI)
How much value you get back for money spent. Example: Wellness centers have an ROI of $2-3 saved for every […]
Read Full Definition → Right to Counsel (Housing)
Guaranteed legal representation for tenants facing eviction, similar to criminal defense. New York, San Francisco, and other cities provide free […]
Read Full Definition → Right to Work (Law)
State laws prohibiting union contracts that require all workers to pay union dues/fees. Weakens unions by creating ‘free rider’ problem […]
Read Full Definition → Right-of-Way
Public property along streets including roadways, sidewalks, street trees, utility lines, and the land between sidewalks and private property. Government […]
Read Full Definition → Road Diet
Reducing number of traffic lanes (typically 4 lanes to 2 plus center turn lane) and reallocating space to bike lanes, […]
Read Full Definition → Rollout Strategy
Plan for gradually implementing new programs. Starts with highest-need areas, expands systematically.
Read Full Definition → Rubbertown
Industrial corridor in West Louisville housing chemical manufacturing facilities. Produces synthetic rubber, plastics, and chemicals since WWII. Known for air […]
Read Full Definition → S
Safe Routes to School
Programs creating safe walking/cycling routes to schools through: infrastructure improvements (sidewalks, crosswalks, traffic calming), crossing guards, walking school buses, and […]
Read Full Definition → Scaling Up
Expanding a successful program from small to large. Example: Starting with 12 substations in Year 1, scaling to 46 by […]
Read Full Definition → School Board
The elected governing body that sets policy, hires the superintendent, approves budgets, and provides oversight for a public school district. […]
Read Full Definition → School Choice
Policies allowing families to choose which school their children attend rather than being assigned based on home address. School choice […]
Read Full Definition → School Facilities
The buildings, playgrounds, athletic fields, and infrastructure where education occurs. Facility quality affects learning—students in well-maintained schools with proper lighting, […]
Read Full Definition → School Funding Formula
The complex system determining how much state and local money each school district receives, based on factors like enrollment, student […]
Read Full Definition → School Resource Officer (SRO)
A sworn law enforcement officer assigned to work in schools, providing security, building relationships with students, teaching law-related classes, and […]
Read Full Definition → School Transportation
The system that transports students between home and school, including school buses, public transit, walking, and family vehicles. JCPS operates […]
Read Full Definition → School-to-Prison Pipeline
Policies and practices that push students, particularly students of color and students with disabilities, out of schools and into the […]
Read Full Definition → Second Chance Employment
Programs and policies that help people with criminal records find employment by removing barriers, providing training, and partnering with fair-chance […]
Read Full Definition → Section 8 Voucher
Federal rental assistance program (Housing Choice Voucher) where eligible low-income families receive vouchers paying portion of rent directly to landlords. […]
Read Full Definition → Senior Programs
Services and activities for older adults (typically 60+) including fitness classes, social events, educational programs, meals, transportation, and wellness checks. […]
Read Full Definition → Service Quality Metrics
Measurable standards for how well government services are delivered. Examples: Average response times, customer satisfaction ratings, facility cleanliness scores, program […]
Read Full Definition → Single-Family Zoning
Zoning laws restricting areas to detached single-family homes only, prohibiting duplexes, apartments, and other housing types. Originated in 1920s as […]
Read Full Definition → Sliding Scale Healthcare
Medical services priced based on patients’ ability to pay, with low-income patients paying reduced fees and the very poor receiving […]
Read Full Definition → Small Business Incubator
Facility providing startups and entrepreneurs with affordable workspace, business services, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Reduces failure rates by supporting businesses […]
Read Full Definition → Smart City
Using technology, data, and connectivity to improve city services, infrastructure efficiency, and quality of life. Smart city applications include intelligent […]
Read Full Definition → SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides monthly benefits (loaded on EBT cards) to help low-income individuals and families purchase food. […]
Read Full Definition → Social Capital
The networks, relationships, and trust among community members that enable collective action, mutual support, and cooperation. Strong social capital means […]
Read Full Definition → Social Enterprise
Businesses organized to achieve social missions (reducing poverty, employing people with barriers, environmental protection) while generating revenue through selling goods […]
Read Full Definition → Social Services Navigation
Helping people access programs they qualify for (food stamps, Medicaid, housing assistance, job training). Wellness centers help residents navigate the […]
Read Full Definition → Solid Waste Management
The collection, transportation, processing, recycling, and disposal of garbage, yard waste, and recyclables. Louisville Metro provides curbside collection of trash, […]
Read Full Definition → Standing Committee
A permanent Metro Council committee that meets regularly to review specific types of legislation and oversee certain city departments. Unlike […]
Read Full Definition → Stormwater Fee
A charge on property owners based on impervious surface area (roofs, driveways, parking lots) to fund stormwater management infrastructure. Unlike […]
Read Full Definition → Stormwater Management
Systems and practices that control rainwater runoff to prevent flooding, reduce pollution, and protect water quality. Traditional stormwater management uses […]
Read Full Definition → Straight-Ticket Voting
The option to vote for all candidates from one political party by making a single mark on the ballot. Kentucky […]
Read Full Definition → Street Outreach
Violence interruption teams that work directly with high-risk individuals in communities to prevent conflicts and reduce violence. Trained community members […]
Read Full Definition → Strong Mayor System
A mayor-council structure where the mayor has substantial executive powers including appointing department heads, preparing the budget, and vetoing legislation. […]
Read Full Definition → Substance Abuse Treatment
Medical and counseling services for addiction. Much more effective and cheaper than jail for non-violent drug offenses.
Read Full Definition → Summer Learning Programs
Educational activities during summer break that prevent ‘summer slide’—the learning loss that occurs when students are out of school for […]
Read Full Definition → Super PAC
A Political Action Committee that can raise and spend unlimited money to support or oppose candidates, but cannot coordinate directly […]
Read Full Definition → Superintendent
The chief executive officer of a school district, hired by the school board to manage daily operations, implement board policies, […]
Read Full Definition → Surplus
When revenue exceeds spending. Extra money can go to reserves or one-time projects. Dave’s budget maintains healthy reserves.
Read Full Definition → Sustainability Office
A dedicated government department that coordinates environmental and sustainability initiatives across all city operations, implements climate action plans, tracks progress […]
Read Full Definition → Swimming Pool Access
Availability of public swimming facilities for recreation, exercise, water safety education, and cooling during summer heat. Public pools provide free […]
Read Full Definition → T
TARC (Transit Authority of River City)
Louisville’s public bus system, providing 2.8 million rides annually across 50+ routes. Governed by independent authority, funded by Metro government, […]
Read Full Definition → Tax Base
The total value of everything that can be taxed (property, income, sales, etc.). A growing tax base means the city […]
Read Full Definition → Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
A development tool where future property tax increases from a project are used to finance current improvements. The area is […]
Read Full Definition → Teacher Recruitment and Retention
Strategies to attract qualified teachers to the profession and keep them in the classroom rather than leaving for other careers. […]
Read Full Definition → Technology Procurement
The process government uses to purchase technology systems, software, and services. Traditional procurement emphasizes lowest bid and rigid specifications written […]
Read Full Definition → Tenant Rights
Legal protections for renters including: habitable conditions, privacy, anti-discrimination, fair eviction procedures, security deposit protections, and retaliation prohibitions. Stronger in […]
Read Full Definition → The Difference
Not the amount (both $1.2B), but HOW it’s spent: – Current administration: Centralized police precincts → Biggers: 46 neighborhood substations […]
Read Full Definition → Traffic Calming
Street design techniques slowing vehicles and improving safety: speed humps, curb extensions, raised crosswalks, chicanes, roundabouts. Makes streets safer for […]
Read Full Definition → Traffic Stop Data Collection
Systematically recording demographics, reason for stop, search occurrence, and outcomes of all police traffic stops to identify patterns of racial […]
Read Full Definition → Transfer
Moving money from one fund to another. Sometimes confusing, but it’s just internal accounting to get money where it needs […]
Read Full Definition → Transit-Oriented Development
Compact, mixed-use development near public transit stations designed to increase ridership and reduce car dependence. Includes housing, retail, offices within […]
Read Full Definition → Transparency
Making government operations, decisions, and budgets open and accessible to the public. Dave’s budget is the most transparent in Louisville […]
Read Full Definition → Transparency Dashboard
Public website showing real-time budget data, program outcomes, and spending. Dave commits to creating this.
Read Full Definition → Trauma Support
Counseling and services for individuals who have experienced violence, abuse, or other traumatic events. Part of violence prevention programs – […]
Read Full Definition → Trauma-Informed Care
Approach that recognizes how trauma affects people and provides appropriate support. Especially important for youth programs and violence intervention.
Read Full Definition → Tree Canopy
The layer of leaves, branches, and stems of trees that cover the ground when viewed from above, measured as percentage […]
Read Full Definition → Turnover Rate
Percentage of employees who leave their jobs each year. High turnover costs money in recruitment and training. Louisville currently loses […]
Read Full Definition → U
Uptime
The percentage of time a data center’s systems remain operational without interruption. Enterprise data centers target 99.99% uptime (‘four nines’), […]
Read Full Definition → Urban Forestry
Management and care of trees in cities and suburbs, including planting new trees, maintaining existing trees, removing hazardous trees, and […]
Read Full Definition → Urban Heat Island Effect
The phenomenon where cities are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to dark pavement, rooftops, and lack of vegetation […]
Read Full Definition → Use of Force Continuum
A framework showing escalating levels of force officers can use in response to resistance, from verbal commands to deadly force. […]
Read Full Definition → Use of Force Policy
Written rules governing when and how police can use physical force, weapons, or restraints against people. LMPD’s use of force […]
Read Full Definition → Utility Rates
The prices charged for electricity, natural gas, water, and sewer services, typically measured per unit (kilowatt-hour for electricity, gallon or […]
Read Full Definition → V
Veto
The mayor’s power to reject an ordinance passed by Metro Council. Council can override a veto with a supermajority vote.
Read Full Definition → Veto Power
The mayor’s authority to reject legislation passed by Metro Council. The mayor has 10 days to veto an ordinance after […]
Read Full Definition → Violence Prevention Programs
Comprehensive approach including street outreach, conflict mediation, trauma support, and community engagement. Addresses root causes of violence through trusted community […]
Read Full Definition → Vision Care Access
Ability to obtain eye examinations, prescription glasses, and treatment for eye conditions. Vision care is often separate from medical insurance […]
Read Full Definition → Vision Zero
Traffic safety philosophy that traffic deaths are preventable, not inevitable, and commits to eliminating all traffic fatalities through street design, […]
Read Full Definition → Vote by Mail
An election system where all voters automatically receive ballots by mail without needing an excuse. Kentucky does NOT have vote-by-mail; […]
Read Full Definition → Voter ID Laws
Requirements that voters show identification before casting a ballot. Kentucky requires photo ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID, etc.) or […]
Read Full Definition → Voter Registration
The process of officially signing up to vote by providing your name, address, and eligibility information to election officials. In […]
Read Full Definition → Voter Suppression
Tactics or policies that make it harder for eligible citizens to register or vote, often disproportionately affecting minority, low-income, elderly, […]
Read Full Definition → Voter Turnout
The percentage of registered voters who actually cast ballots in an election. Louisville typically sees 15-25% turnout in mayoral primaries […]
Read Full Definition → W
Walkability
How safe, comfortable, and convenient an area is for walking. Depends on: sidewalks, crosswalks, street design, density, mixed uses, safety, […]
Read Full Definition → Water Consumption (Data Centers)
The amount of water data centers use for cooling systems, typically 3-5 million gallons per day for a large facility—equivalent […]
Read Full Definition → Water Quality
The chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water that determine whether it’s safe for drinking, recreation, and supporting aquatic life. […]
Read Full Definition → Weatherization
Home improvements that reduce energy consumption and costs by sealing air leaks, adding insulation, upgrading windows, and improving heating/cooling efficiency. […]
Read Full Definition → Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
A federal nutrition program providing supplemental foods, nutrition education, and healthcare referrals to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children […]
Read Full Definition → Worker Bill of Rights
A comprehensive set of workplace protections and standards that apply to ALL workers in Louisville, not just government employees. Establishes […]
Read Full Definition → Worker Cooperative
Businesses owned and democratically controlled by their workers, with each worker having one vote regardless of capital contribution. Worker cooperatives […]
Read Full Definition → Workforce Development
Programs that train workers for in-demand jobs through apprenticeships, vocational training, job placement services, and skills certification. Connects unemployed or […]
Read Full Definition → Workplace Protections
Employee rights including fair treatment, due process, protection from discrimination, safe working conditions, and clear grievance procedures. Dave’s Employee Bill […]
Read Full Definition → Write-In Candidate
A candidate whose name doesn’t appear on the printed ballot, so voters must manually write in their name to vote […]
Read Full Definition → Y
Youth Development Programs
Consolidated programs including after-school activities (3-7pm – peak crime hours), summer jobs (3,000 positions), mentoring, life skills training, gang intervention, […]
Read Full Definition → Youth Sports Programs
Organized athletic activities for children and teens including basketball, baseball, soccer, swimming, track, and other sports. Youth sports provide exercise, […]
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