Louisville's violence prevention office faces funding decisions as federal money runs out

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Much of the money that funds the Louisville Office of Violence Prevention will soon be gone.

The money came from the American Rescue Plan, which provided funding during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the money running out, funding decisions will have to be made.

The issue went before Metro Council's Budget Committee on Wednesday, where members heard about some of the most successful efforts of the office. The budget does propose more than $8 million in funding.

James Tatum, interim director for the office, touted the reduction of homicides in the city, which are down about 30% in Louisville year-to-date. He pointed to Community Violence Intervention sites where residents explain what they think will help their neighborhood prevent violence.

Tatum also drew attention to a need to continue the Sanctuary Project, which provides food, mental health and faith services after violence comes to a neighborhood.

Additionally, middle schools in the city's Russell, Park Hill and Algonquin neighborhoods, as well as south Louisville, will share $350,000 for after school programs.

Tatum said Louisville had the fourth-greatest reduction in homicides in a 26-city survey.

In April, the city unveiled its Safe Louisville Comprehensive Violence Reduction Plan to combat the rising tide of violence. The 5-year plan is aimed at reducing Louisville's violent crime by at least 15% each year.

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