ORDINANCE NO. _____, SERIES 2023
Title
AN ORDINANCE CREATING A NEW CHAPTER OF THE LOUISVILLE/JEFFERSON COUNTY METRO GOVERNMENT CODE OF ORDINANCES ("LMCO") DESIGNATING HISTORICALLY BLACK NEIGHBORHOODS AS PROTECTED COMMUNITIES FROM DIRECT, INDIRECT, AND CULTURAL DISPLACEMENT, TO BE KNOWN AS THE HISTORICALLY BLACK NEIGHBORHOODS LAW, AND AMENDING LMCO SECTION 92.15.
BODY
SPONSORED BY: COUNCIL MEMBER JECOREY ARTHUR
WHEREAS, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has noted that, "the first half of the 20th century shaped Black Americans' identity and influence on the United States. In reaction to racist actions and laws in that period, Black neighborhoods provided a sense of belonging, serving as a space not only to garner wealth, but also to celebrate Black culture in a unique and authentic way. During this time, a Black cultural identity began to emerge, but Black Americans were still significantly affected by key events such as Jim Crow, segregation and desegregation, and the assassinations of key Civil Rights leaders. These events impacted individual livelihoods and the fate of these neighborhoods. Many of these communities disintegrated because of factors such as gentrification and outright racism, while others continue to rebuild and evolve. However, the history of these neighborhoods have often been hidden and not fully recognized;" and
WHEREAS, Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Government commissioned the Louisville Housing Needs Assessment which was prepared in February, 2019 and studied the health, equity and diversity of housing stock across Louisville Metro (the "Housing Needs Assessment"); and
WHEREAS, the Housing Needs Assessment found that, "As home values increase in older, lower-income neighborhoods located near Louisville's vibrant urban center, there is a growing challenge to help guard against the displacement of current residents and businesses and to help create and preserve affordable housing in these areas;" and
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