On Monday, Jan. 2, Craig Greenberg was sworn in as the 51st mayor of Louisville in the second floor rotunda of Metro Hall.
Longtime friend and co-founder of 21c Museum Hotels Steve Wilson emceed the ceremony, which was attended by Gov. Andy Beshar and state Senators Gerald Neal and Julue Raque Adams.
The ceremony also included performances from Faith Works Rising Artists, The Real Young Prodigys, and Louisville Orchestra Music Director Teddy Abrams.
Greenberg, former CEO of 21c Museum Hotels and Whiskey Row investor, is only the fourth person to hold office as Louisville mayor since 1986. So you could say there’s a lot to unpack. From the last 12 years with former mayor Greg Fischer to Greenberg’s immediate priorities, let’s dive in.
The last 12 years
Greg Fischer was sworn into office in January 2011 and went on to serve three consecutive four-year terms as Louisville’s mayor — which is the term limit.
During his tenure he coined the term “Bourbonism” to promote Derby City’s booming bourbon industry, thriving local food scene, and tourism. Read an interview with Greg Fischer about his time as mayor.
DYK: Former mayors can run for office again after a four year break.
Greenberg’s vision
In his inaugural speech, Greenberg listed a few immediate priorities for his administration to tackle — public safety, affordable housing, and creating opportunities for all Louisvillians, especially for those in underserved neighborhoods.
Greenberg looks to take a holistic approach to violence through outreach, investment, communication, and community violence-intervention strategies. He also asked Louisvillians to hold him accountable to his promises.
Looking to get more civically involved in 2023? Meet your newly elected or returning local and state legislators at a Cafe LOUIE event where you can let them know what issues are on your mind for the new year. Meetups take place every Saturday through March at different library locations.