LCDB president and ceo Kelly Downard focuses on political career

Kentucky Banker Magazine, Aug 2001

Kelly Downard, president and CEO of Louisville Community Development Bank (LCDB), recently announced his candidacy for City Council, as representative for the 16th District. Downard has held the same position at LCDB since the bank's formation in 1997.

A lifelong Louisvillian, Downard began his banking career with Citizens Fidelity Bank and Trust Company in 1975. He was named president and CEO of Citizens Fidelity Mortgage Company in 1987. After the merger of Citizens Fidelity and PNC Bank, Downard was named Senior Vice President for Business and Community Development. He retired from PNC at the request of former Mayor Jerry Abramson in order to form Louisville Community Development Bank.

Downard expects to retire from LCDB later this year to concentrate on his campaign. He feels that the first several years of the consolidated government will be critical for Louisville. "I believe the merged government can offer a more efficient structure to provide government services," Downard said. "I want to bring my thirty-plus years of experience to the process in order to ensure that we that we organize thoughtfully and provide all needed services to our city at an acceptable cost."