[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 9 (Thursday, January 16, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E41]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO LOUISVILLE METRO COUNCILMAN RICK BLACKWELL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MORGAN McGARVEY

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 16, 2025

  Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Louisville 
Metro Councilman Rick Blackwell in recognition of his extraordinary 
leadership and decades of unwavering service to Louisville Metro 
Council District 12.
  As a founding member of the Louisville Metro Council, first elected 
in 2002 and re-elected in 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020, he has 
represented the neighborhoods of Pleasure Ridge Park, Riverport, and 
Valley Station with distinction.
  Councilman Blackwell's dedication to leadership has been evident 
throughout his tenure, serving as President of the Louisville Metro 
Council, Democratic Caucus Chair, and in various leadership roles 
including Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Budget Chair, and as a 
member of the Firefighters Pension Fund Board of Trustees and 
Louisville Metro Revenue Commission.
  His legislative achievements, including the Rental Registry 
Ordinance, Sunday Alcohol Sales Ordinance, and Kid's Meals Ordinance, 
reflect his commitment to improving quality of life for Kentuckians. 
Transformational projects like the Dixie Highway Corridor Master Plan, 
the $50 million New Dixie Highway Project, and the Colonial Gardens 
Public-Private Partnership demonstrate his vision for economic growth 
and infrastructure advancement.
  Through Councilman Blackwell's efforts, Riverview Park has become a 
cornerstone of community life, featuring renovated boat docks, a splash 
pad, playground, pickleball courts, and more. The annual Riverview 
Independence Festival, which he founded, continues to unite Kentuckians 
with its celebration of music and fireworks, fostering a sense of 
community pride and connection.
  Mr. Speaker, Councilman Blackwell's enduring commitment to serving 
the people of Kentucky, his leadership in advancing meaningful 
legislation, and his dedication to fostering thriving communities stand 
as a testament to the profound impact of his service. I ask that the 
House of Representatives join me in expressing our profound gratitude 
for his steadfast commitment to public service and community 
betterment, and we wish him well in his future endeavors.

                          ____________________