Southwest Community Association of Neighborhoods

Following the outrageous meeting Monday night over the MSD proposal, I started thinking: Why hasn't there been a formal organization put together to be one uniting voice for the community that would address issues such as these? You know, some sort of neighborhood association that may have a bit more pull than 200 screaming maniacs in an unventilated courtroom.

My search led me to something called the Southwest Community Association of Neighborhoods, or SCAN. Founded by Southwest resident Diana Newton in 2000, SCAN's mission is "to improve the quality of life, the environment and the general welfare of the Southwest Louisville Metro area and its residents".

I read through the association's website, hoping to find some signs of recent activity. Surely something on such a grand scale would be utilized to benefit residents in this fight. I read further into the mission statement: "Providing information and education on issues of interest to the community including zoning, development, health and safety; Promoting improved infrastructure, appropriate land use and economic development and responsible use of public funds; Encouraging communication and cooperation among residents of neighborhoods throughout the area; Encouraging residents to work together through neighborhood organizations and Engaging in other charitable and educational activities."

After being founded in 2000 SCAN was incorporated in 2003 and finally established as a 501-(c)-3 charitable/educational organization "focusing on neighborhood improvement" in 2007.

I found out through doughawkins.com that Diana Newton, founder of SCAN, works as a staff assistant for Metro Councilman Doug Hawkins (R-25), and was a candidate for the Louisville Metro Council's 14th District in 2004.

An Aside: According to the Internal Revenue Service, organizations with a 501-c-3 classification are prohibited from conducting political campaign activities to influence elections to public office, but they are permitted to conduct a limited amount of lobbying to influence legislation. Although the law states that "no substantial part" of a public charity's activities may be devoted to lobbying, charities with very large budgets may lawfully expend a million dollars or more per year on lobbying. All 501(c)(3) organizations are also permitted to educate individuals about issues or fund research that supports their political position as long as they don't overtly advocate for a position on a specific bill.

The way I understand the law, (and I may be wrong), officers or directors of a 501(c)(3) cannot participate in a candidate's campaign for elective office.

By law, this organization is required to file an IRS Form 990 or 990-EZ and they are obligated to give you a copy if you ask.

It looks as if this organization has either folded or is not filing reports with the IRS. One thing is for sure, it is not improving the welfare of the citizens of Southwest Louisville. That is a shame, because an organization dedicated to these principals is badly needed.