Council Tables LG&E Franchise, Passes Late-Night Security Ordinance

Louisville Metro Council surprised observers by indefinitely shelving LG&E's gas franchise renewal and, after a late-night debate, adopted a new security mandate for businesses plagued by gun violence — all while approving a $74 million hotel deal, a Habitat for Humanity rezoning, and incentives to keep a major tea manufacturer in town.

• Council votes 18-7 to table LG&E gas franchise renewal, opening the door to renegotiate terms and explore public power

• Late-night business security ordinance passes 20-2 after nine months of work and an emotional appeal from its sponsor about gun violence

• $74M Landmark Building hotel conversion wins TIF approval 21-2-1, drawing objections over subsidizing hotels instead of housing

• Habitat for Humanity rezoning sails through 25-0 for 40 single-family homes on Mount Holly Road

• Bigelow Tea expansion incentives approved unanimously to retain jobs paying $21-$23/hour

• Licensed massage therapists warn Council the facility ordinance is driving businesses out of Jefferson County

• Metro employees challenge new pay scale that shortchanges decades of service

In the meeting's most extensive debate, Metro Council voted 18-7 to indefinitely postpone the renewal of Louisville Gas and Electric's gas franchise agreement — a decision that leaves the city without a formal franchise when the current deal expires in August and signals growing frustration with the utility's corporate posture.