Newburg Library

On the third Tuesday of each month, a Community Meeting is held to give residents an opportunity to be informed, discuss ideas and share. Be part of the change we want to see for our community. Join us at 6:00PM when we meet with LMPD, and 6:30PM to share with Councilwoman Dr. Barbara Shanklin.

Louisville Metro Police Department 6th Division Questions? Contact Us

Official Team Kentucky sources for information concerning COVID-19

COVID-19 Hotline (800) 722-5725

The COVID-19 hotline is a service operated by the healthcare professionals at the KY Poison Control Center who can provide advice and answer questions. Please be patient as we are handling a high volume of calls and want to give everyone the time they deserve. For general information, please review the website prior to calling the hotline. Guidance is being added as it becomes available.

Click here for to visit the official Team Kentucky source for information concerning COVID-19 (updated daily).

For general inquires, email KYcovid19@ky.gov. Please be patient as we handle a high volume of emails.

COVID-19: Louisville Information

Louisville Metro has a website with updated information about COVID-19, including information from Mayor Greg Fischer’s briefings about City services.  You can access it here.

Kentucky's Response to COVID-19 (03/18 - 03/31)

Since the first case of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was confirmed in Kentucky, Governor Beshear taken the following actions:

Visit https://governor.ky.gov/covid19 for daily updates on Kentucky's response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Latest COVID-19 updates in the City of Louisville

Mayor Fischer says city is vigorously enforcing COVID-19 restrictions on local businesses

Mayor Greg Fischer said that the city has received more than 1,100 complaints about businesses that aren’t complying with restrictions imposed to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Although most of the Louisville community is doing the right thing by staying home and avoiding crowds, the Mayor said the city has been forced to take action against some establishments that aren’t getting the message.

Thus far, the Metro Department of Public Health & Wellness has issued shutdown orders to seven Louisville businesses that were operating in defiance of the COVID-19 restrictions.

“Most of us are doing the right things needed to stop the spread of COVID-19, but we will not hesitate to take action against establishments that don’t seem to be getting the message,” the Mayor said.

Complaints that come into Metro311 are typically investigated within one to three days.

In addition to non-compliant businesses, common complaints have been essential businesses not observing social distancing; large groups of people gathering in businesses or residential areas; businesses not following good sanitation procedures; and employees being forced to work while sick or next to a co-worker who is sick. Metro will close a business if it is not allowed to be open under the governor’s executive order, or is unwilling to operate safely.

Mayor discusses COVID-19 crisis with local hospital officials

Mayor Fischer held an online town hall on April 2nd to discuss the COVID-19 crisis with leaders of Louisville’s major health systems.

The Mayor spoke with Dr. Jody Prather of Baptist Health, Dr. Steve Hester of Norton Healthcare, and Dr. Jason Smith of U of L Health to get their assessment of the situation at their local hospitals.

“We’ve been working with them for years on simulations and practicing different scenarios to prepare for a situation like this. Now, it’s real and our collaboration is strong,” the Mayor said.  

Louisville hospitals have yet to experience a surge in COVID-19 cases, but the experience in other cities indicates that the situation could change quickly. Healthcare officials say they are focusing all their resources on caring for patients while ensuring the health and safety of healthcare workers.

The Mayor continued to emphasize the need to “flatten the curve” and allow our hospitals to manage the inevitable increase in COVID-19 patients over the coming weeks and months. He reiterated the need to stay at home, avoid crowds, practice social distancing, and wash your hands frequently.

“We are seeing unprecedented cooperation among our healthcare systems and local government,” the Mayor said. “And their clear message to all of us is this – if you want to help, if you want to keep our hospitals from being overwhelmed like we’re seeing elsewhere, if you want to keep more people from dying, stay home.”

COVID-19 impacting those in recovery

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to upend normal life for thousands of Louisvillians, Mayor Fischer said that a group that is especially being impacted is people who are in recovery for substance abuse. 

“One of our duties at city government is thinking about how this crisis affects people who are already in challenging circumstances,” the Mayor said. “And that includes our friends, neighbors and family members who are in recovery from substance use disorder.”

Mayor Fischer noted that the city had been seeing positive results since it issued “Coming Together: A Plan for Hope, Healing and Recovery” in 2018, but the pandemic presents a new challenge.

“One the greatest gifts I’ve had as mayor is seeing people who have struggled with substance abuse say, ‘I can overcome this’,” the Mayor said. “It’s been a real blessing for me to get to know people in recovery and the people who help them.”

Jenni Kelley, who leads the local chapter of Young People in Recovery, said virtual support meetings have replaced in-person gatherings for people who are fighting to stay sober in Louisville.

“We are shifting gears to a virtual network,” said Kelley, who has been in recovery for 12 years. “The recovery community in Louisville is very resilient.”

Kelley cited two websites – www.louisvillerecoveryconnection.org and www.intherooms.org – as places to go to find support resources such as virtual recovery meetings like Alcoholics Anonymous.

Kelley said the lessons she has learned from being in recovery have better equipped her to handle the COVID-19 crisis.

“We get these amazing coping skills that the entire world could use right now,” Kelley said. “I’m quarantined at home right now due to an exposure at work, but I don’t feel alone.”

New data on social distancing in Louisville

Mayor Fischer said new data indicates many Louisvillians are observing safe social distancing and staying home during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The tech company Cuebiq studied anonymized cell phone data to look for mobility trends across the country from February 28 to March 27 and found a 74 percent reduction in travel in Jefferson County during that period, according to a report in the New York Times.

“That’s a significant change. By and large, the less we’re traveling, the less we’re interacting face-to-face, the less we can spread the disease,” the Mayor said.

But Mayor Fischer noted that Louisville is below the average – an 84 percent decrease – for states where the governor has issued a “stay at home” order like the one in effect in Kentucky.

“It’s clear that we still have progress to make. The bottom line is we have to travel even less. And stay home even more,” the Mayor said. “I know this isn’t easy, but the people, the businesses and the cities that manage to do that are going to be healthier. And they will get to emerge from this crisis sooner. Overall, we’re doing well. We’re not seeing the rapid increase is cases that other cities are seeing. We’re on the right track. Let’s keep going. Take care of ourselves and each other.”

Green lights for Metro Hall and City Hall

Mayor Fischer announced that Metro Hall and City Hall are now lit with green lights to honor those who have lost their lives to the COVID-19 virus.

“Our hearts and our prayers go out to the people who are mourning loved ones who’ve lost their lives to COVID-19,” the Mayor said. “And I want to thank to all the people throughout our city who are already doing this. I appreciate that.”

Mayor Fischer reminded everyone that the best way to honor those who have suffered due to the virus is to continue staying at home as much as possible, practicing social distancing, and washing your hands frequently.

Important Links Relating to Daily Updated COVID-19 Response

• Governor Beshear’s Executive Order click https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/covid19/orderrestaurantclosures.pdf 
• Governor Beshear’s Letter listing Decisive Steps taken to Date click https://kentucky.gov/Pages/Activity-stream.aspx?n=GovernorBeshear&prId=93
• TARC Information click here http://www.ridetarc.org/news-events/
• LIBA small business information click www.keeplouisvilleweird.com
• For up to date local information click https:/louisvilleky.gov/news/what-you-need-know-about-coronavirus
• Louisville Metro Public Health & Wellness: https://louisvilleky.gov/news/what-you-need-know-about-coronavirus
• Governor’s Press Releases: https://governor.ky.gov/news
• KYCOVID19 https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/pages/covid19.aspx
• Center for Disease Control https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Additional Recent Updates from Mayor Fischer

• Mayor Fischer encourages Louisvillians to be prepared and sign up for Smart911.  On April 1st, Mayor Greg Fischer urged every Louisvillian to sign up for a free online tool that will inform first responders about important medical and family data and speed their ability to aid people in an emergency. The Smart911 service enables you to go online and input important information for police, fire, and EMS first responders to have at the ready when you call them. You can also download a Smart911 app to your smartphone. LEARN MORE and SIGN UP. 
• Mayor Fischer announces loan program to help small businesses impacted by COVID-19 outbreak.  On March 31st, Mayor Greg Fischer announced the creation of the Small Business Continuity Loan Program, a $900,000 fund that will provide zero-interest loans, with no payments for 12 months, to very small businesses impacted by COVID-19. Small businesses can receive up to $25,000 to cover immediate expenses.  The loan program is a partnership between Louisville Metro Government, LHOME, Render Capital, Greater Louisville Inc., and Lenderfit. Funds are still being raised for the program. LEARN MORE.

Metro Council approves the use of $2.7 million to assist those impacted by COVID-19

The Louisville Metro Council has approved $2.7 million to assist those impacted by COVID-19. These funds, realized earlier this year through better than expected revenue projections, were originally dedicated to paying down the city’s pension obligations.

Councilman Markus Winkler (D-17) said: “Our city faces an unprecedented challenge as we respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Countless families across our community are going to be impacted in ways large and small. While our pension obligations are not going away, we believe the immediate need of those affected is paramount at this time.”

The COVID-19 Relief Fund (CRF) will be administered by the Office of Resilience & Community Services and will be used only to support existing programs that offer food assistance and emergency assistance for housing. Applications for reimbursement by qualified organizations will be reviewed weekly by a three-person panel consisting of a representative of the Mayor’s Office, the Metro Council, and Metro United Way.  

“Everyone needs to do what we can to keep people housed and fed, and this appropriation of Metro’s limited funds is the right thing to do. This crisis also calls for private contributions to groups providing aid, including Louisville’s community ministries, and a massive federal response,” - Councilman Bill Hollander District 9

“The answers to many of the challenges our country faces will take the work of Federal, State and Local governments as well as private industry, non-profits and everyone else in between. This ordinance as well as programs already announced by the Mayor are good first steps towards helping the people of this community.” – Councilman Kevin Kramer, District 11

“Our community is facing a wide variety of challenges. Some of these challenges are now known, but there are more challenges being presented with each coming day. This ordinance will be a small part of our effort to assist the many families that are facing unfathomable problems as a result of this pandemic.” - Councilman Scott Reed, District 16

“These are uncertain times and I know there are many who are wondering what will happen next. It is my hope the Council’s action tonight will help reassure everyone their leaders are aware of the need and we encourage everyone to stay calm. We will get through this together.” – President David James District 6.

The Office of Management and Budget is tasked with making a written report to the Council regarding the allocation and distribution of every $250,000 from the CRF as well as a final report once the CRF is closed.

Updated Metro March for Meals - Senior Meal Pickup Program

While the city responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are distributing 1,000 frozen meal packs for seniors ages 60 and older.  Pick-up times and locations are as follows:

• Tuesdays - 8:30am - 12:30pm:  Beechmont Community Center
  205 Wellington Avenue
  Louisville, KY 40214
• Wednesdays - 8:30am - 12:30pm:  Sun Valley Community Center.
  6505 Bethany Lane, Louisville, 40272 OR East Government Center
  200 Juneau Drive, Louisville 40243
• Thursdays - 8:30am - 12:30pm:  Southern High School
  8620 Preston Highway
  Louisville, 40219 OR Newburg Community Center
  4810 Exeter Avenue
  Louisville, 40218
• Fridays - 8:30am - 12:30pm:  Former Kroger site in Old Louisville
  924 South Second Street, Louisville 40203

Seniors must show ID confirming their age in person or provide ID credentials to a designated individual (if the individual is picking up meals for a senior and/or multiple seniors.  Sites now serving through April 30, 2020.

JCPS' Continued Response to the COVID-19 Outbreak; Information regarding the resumption of school and upcoming virtual learning plan

JCPS: NTI plan allows students to continue learning during closure

School work will be required, graded; days would not have to be made up

March 27, 2020 – Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) will launch its first Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) plan for students on Tuesday, April 7, ensuring student learning continues while district schools remain closed due to COVID-19 precautions.

The NTI will offer remote learning for students, who will be able to access and complete activities either online or through hard copies – whichever is most comfortable and convenient for them and their families. A limited number of Chromebooks will be available for students who do not have access to a computer and wish to engage with teachers and complete lessons online.

“Non-Traditional Instruction is a completely new way for our students to continue learning during this unprecedented shut down,” Dr. Marty Pollio, JCPS superintendent, said. “The NTI plan allows students to stay engaged while they’re at home by completing lessons that they would normally be doing in the classroom, either online or through hard copies, and interacting with their teachers on a regular basis.  While we know this is a new and unfamiliar strategy, we are committed to doing everything we can to make the transition to remote learning as smooth as possible for our students and families.”

Students can access their lessons, activities and teachers at the JCPS NTI homepage. The site also includes a parent/ guardian tutorial video and FAQs.

In order to assist students who want to complete their assignments online but lack the resources, the district will distribute up to 25,000 Chromebook computers to families that need them, beginning next week.  Priority will be given to families on Free or Reduced Lunch, as well as English Language Learners, students with special needs and homeless students.  Families in these categories will be notified by email starting today with directions for requesting a device. Chromebooks will be limited to one per family, as long as supplies last, and must be returned when school resumes. 

If there are devices left over after the initial requests are made, JCPS will open availability up to all families, and the remaining Chromebooks will be distributed via lottery system.  

In addition, hard copies of the lesson plans in multiple languages will be available at the Emergency Food Sites for students who prefer to receive and complete paper copies of their assignments.  Starting next week, the food sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.  Children will be able to receive up to four meals on Mondays and Wednesdays (two breakfasts and two lunches), and will continue to get one breakfast and one lunch on Fridays. 

Also, under the district’s NTI plan:

• NTI days will count as regular school days, and will not need to be made up at the end of the year.
• Students will be required to check in each day with their teachers, who will determine the best way to connect with their students and will communicate the plan to them.  
• Unlike the supplemental educational activities that students have been doing over the past two weeks, student NTI work is required, and will be graded.  

For families that need assistance getting internet access, Spectrum is offering free Wi-Fi for 60 days and other providers are offering discounted rates.                                                                                                                     

The NTI program will remain in place while schools are closed.  In-school classes are currently scheduled to resume on Monday, April 20.

---

Additional information from Ms. Abby Piper (Executive Administrator, Government/Community Relations; Jefferson County Public Schools):

See below for information on our NTI plan, and PLEASE check out this link to Dr. Pollio’s press conference this morning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwt5h1_y84U.

Some notes about the virtual learning (NTI) plan:

-          We are launching the link to the virtual learning platform this afternoon, but schools will be uploading content between now and when school resumes (virtually) April 7. That link is https://sites.google.com/jefferson.kyschools.us/jcpsnti. You can also access it via jcps.me/NTIsupport.

-          If you want to see how the portal works, you can view this demo here: https://youtu.be/46qhBjUwk4o.

-          Teachers will be providing assignments that students will have to complete when school virtually resumes April 7.

-          Regarding Chromebooks. We have a limited supply right now, so at this time, JCPS staff will be reaching out to families who qualify for free/reduced price meals and special education students to ensure they have access to those at this time.

-          We are still working through accessibility and connectivity issues in our community, but we will be providing options for families on our website once we know more. We are also looking to provide over 6,000 hot spots for our special education students. Look for more information on that next week and in the coming weeks as we work to increase that number for as many families as possible.

-          For students who want paper packets, we will be providing multiple weeks of work in paper packets at our food sites and will be looking at mailing those as well.

-          Yesterday, JCPS food sites served over 16,000 meals. In an effort to protect staff and families, we will be providing multiple days of meals on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Students will be able to get 4 meals on Mondays and Wednesdays and 2 meals on Fridays. The number of meals is not changing, just the days to help minimize contact and encourage social distancing and safety.

I want to give a special shout out to Representative Jason Nemes, who has taken the bull by the horns to rally donations to the Chromebook fund. For those of you wanting to do the same, you can access that donation link here: https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/stores/catalog/getproduct?productKey=ZZ1F9UX7NM8PFTE&OPTZZ1F9UX7NM8PFTE=ZZ1F9UX7NM9P80Y or can send checks. Charitable contribution receipts will be mailed to the address on the check unless otherwise noted!

Checks can be made out to Treasurer JCPS and mailed it to:

PO Box 34020

Louisville KY 40232-4020

The JCPS Family hopes you all are well, and we are grateful for your partnership and leadership during this tough time.

Free Spectrum broadband for Students

According to Carla Comb, Charter/Spectrum's Sr. Manager, Government Relations, Kentucky households with K-12 or college students that do not already have broadband access can call 1-844-488-8395 to receive free Spectrum broadband service and WiFi access for 60 days.

Special Hours at some Louisville Businesses only for residents over 60 and those most vulnerable to COVID-19:

• Target (first hour of business on Wednesdays)
• Dollar General (first hour of business every day)
• Wal-Mart (first hour of business every Tuesday between March 24 and April 28)
• Rainbow Blossom (first hour of business every day)
• Whole Foods (first hour of business every day)
• Big Lots (first hour of business every day)
• Fresh Market (8-9 a.m. Monday through Friday)
• Kroger (7-8 a.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays)

Emergency Fund for COVID-19 affected independent restaurant businesses and employees

A $10,000 emergency fund specific for COVID-19 affected businesses and employees has been set up, and Apron will be distributing $400 grants to eligible applicants.

To be eligible for a grant, a person must:

• Be diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus. You will require a doctor’s letter.
• Be employed in an independent restaurant for at least six months.
• Be able to produce bills to be paid. They do not give money directly to grantees.

Apply at www.aproninc.org/application.

Reminder-2020 Census: Help spread the word; be counted!

The U.S. Census will help determine Louisville's future for the next 10 years — representation in government, the allocation of federal resources affecting communities and families, education funding, and much more. 

Mayor Greg Fischer and the Louisville Municipal Complete Count Committee are working to help ensure a complete and proper count of all Louisville residents, and are seeking the community's help in getting out the word. The official Census 2020 date is April. In two weeks invitations will arrive at households and residents will be able to respond to the 2020 Census! Learn more.

https://louisvilleky.gov/census

The Census is fast approaching – 

Timeline

• March 12-20 – An invitation to respond online to the 2020 Census.
• March 16-24 – A reminder letter.
• March 26-April 3 – A reminder postcard. (if you haven’t responded yet)
• April 8-16 – A reminder letter and a paper questionnaire.
• April 20-27 – A final reminder postcard before the Census follows up in person.

Where are people counted?

• Count people at their usual residence, which is the place where they live and sleep most of the time.
• People in certain types of group facilities on Census Day are counted at the group facility.

People who do not have a usual residence, or who cannot determine a usual residence, are counted where they are on Census Day.

Census Job Opportunities 

As a reminder, another challenge we are facing is fulfilling jobs at the Census National Processing Center and Field Operations.  Attached are our flyers that explain the job opportunities. Please keep sharing this information through your social media, websites, newsletters etc. More information is below: 

1. To apply at NPC go to USAJobs.gov   Search keyword: PNC Location: Jeffersonville
2. Field Operations apply at Census.gov/jobs Hiring process may take 30-60days. 

If you wish to see other information in a different language click on the link below. 

https://www.census.gov/library/fact-sheets.html

Concerned about this year's Metro Budget?  Contact Your State Legislators!

The Kentucky General Assembly is now back in session.  Among the items on the agenda are local government revenue options.

Louisville Metro and other city and county governments across the state face dramatically rising pension costs, but the ability to raise revenue to meet them is severely limited by state law. Additionally, some of the options the state allows for other communities, including a restaurant tax, are currently prohibited in Louisville.

Rising costs without new revenue have already led to reduced Metro services, including fewer police officers, firefighters, library services, and many more.  Pension costs will continue to rise in the coming years, and a bipartisan group of Louisville’s leaders (and local governments across the state) have been asking Frankfort for help. 

We need Louisville citizens to get involved in this effort! Please contact your state legislators and ask them to support efforts for additional local government revenue options.  Find your state senator and representative at this link, and contact them by phone or email to ask them to work with local officials to find a solution that will pay the bills without crippling cuts in Metro services.

Having issues with high grass, illegal parking, street repairs, or other Code Enforcement concerns in the community?  Contact 311!

Metro311 Service Request Information

• Submit a Service Request in the new system.
• Only service requests for the past 30 days will be accessible in the new system.  If you need information on an older request, please call Metro 311 for status.
• Anything submitted in the old reporting system (prior to June 19, 2019) will not show in the new system.  It is still being processed however. Please call Metro311 for status.
• To receive email notifications of the status of your service request you must have an account and you must have included your email address when you created your account. You can create a new account and report a new issue with Metro 311 by following this link.
• Not all issues you put a service request in for require you to login. Some issues may be submitted anonymously, such as reporting a pothole and property maintenance cases, for instance. But having an account will allow you to track the progress and status of the request.
• The outlined or highlighted area on the map indicates the area which is serviced by Louisville Metro Government.
• If you do not see a category which corresponds to your issue, please call Metro 311 at 311. 

Is your neighborhood street facing speeding problems?  Do you and your neighbors desire to have speed humps installed?  Councilwoman Shanklin and the District 2 office want to help!

Vehicles speeding through neighborhood streets is an all too common problem facing many residents of the Louisville Metro area, resulting in dangerous conditions that affect adults and children alike.  District 2 is not immune to this issue, and your Council office would like to help.  Already this year three streets in the Newburg area (Ilex, Shasta, and Kilmer) have been outfitted with brand new speed humps, entirely paid for by Councilwoman Shanklin and her District 2 office. 

Still, the Councilwoman is not finished attempting to mitigate the speeding issues often negatively affecting D-2 neighborhoods.  If you and your neighbors have noticed a high number of speeders on your street and would like to be considered for speed hump installation, please contact the District 2 Council office at (502) 574-1102 or via email at either Barbara.Shanklin@louisvilleky.gov or Caleb.Howard@louisvilleky.gov.  Assuming that your street is eligible (must be Metro owned/must be long enough to support speed humps/etc.), after speaking with a representative from our office you will be asked to collect signatures (with individual addresses) from all of your neighbors that live on the street that is requesting the installation of speed humps.  At least 70% of all of the residents currently living on the street requesting speed humps must provide their signature/address in support in order for the street to be considered by Public Works.  Upon completion of this signature page, the original document must be given to Councilwoman Shanklin or Legislative Assistant Caleb Howard personally, or sent to our office at City Hall (601 W. Jefferson St., First Floor, 40202; ATTN: Caleb Howard).  As soon as the signature document is received, LA Howard will deliver it to Public Works, and that department will survey the street to determine whether or not speed humps will be appropriate to install--assuming Public Works signs off on the request, Councilwoman Shanklin will make the final determination with regards to moving forward with the installation or not.

In addition to the speed humps already constructed, Brenda Drive, Cedrus Circle, and Oakdale Lane have recently submitted their signature paperwork and are currently being considered by Public Works.

Report Street Light Outages to LG&E

If you see a streetlight out in your neighborhood (or anywhere in Louisville), please note the address and report it to LG&E for repair. Click here to fill out the online form to report broken or malfunctioning streetlights. We always recommend adding your contact information to the request, so a technician who has questions can contact you. LG&E makes repairs during the day. Make sure you follow up if the streetlight hasn’t been repaired within seven (7) days.

LMPD reminder:  Please secure your property!

A reminder to lock your vehicle, and never leave valuables in plain sight. This includes any and all keys, key fobs and firearms. 

Police report that some drivers are making it easy for thieves by leaving their vehicle running. Please secure your property. 

LMPD suggests making a 9 p.m. routine, as seen below.

• Remove valuables from your vehicle.
• Lock your car.
• Secure your weapons.
• Close your garage.
• Lock your doors and windows. 

Remember to report any suspicious behavior to LMPD’s non-emergency line at 574-7111. To speak to a call taker, press 5.

Metro Emergency Repair Program

Eligibility criteria:

•    Must be owner occupied for at least one year.
•    Not available on rental property.
•    Must meet income guidelines (see intake staff).
•    May receive assistance once in a five year period.
•    Louisville-Jefferson County only.

Types of repairs:

• Furnace repair or replacement (October-April only).
• A/C unit- repair or replacement (Requires medical statement, available May-Sept. only).
• Electrical repairs/upgrades.
• Water line repairs/replacement.
• Sewer line repairs/replacement.
• Water heater repair/replacement (gas or electric).   
• Gas line leaks.

For further information contact Jackie Wilson-Rudy at 574-5850 or Jacqueline.Wilson-Rudy@louisvilleky.gov.

LIHEAP funding deadline extended to April 30

Income-eligible residents of Louisville now have more time to apply for funding to help with energy bills, thanks to an extension of the deadline for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

The former deadline of March 31 was recently pushed back to Thursday, April 30, 2020 by Community Action Kentucky, which administers the LIHEAP program through a network of 23 Community Action Agencies across the state.

LIHEAP is a federally-funded program that provides assistance to individuals or families struggling to pay their electric, natural gas or other energy bills. The current phase of LIHEAP, called the “Crisis Component”, assist households that are in a home energy crisis and that are facing disconnection from their utility services. Also again this year, residents who have received a current LG&E bill with a Past Due Balance may be eligible to apply.

Applicants must be Jefferson County residents with a household income at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines (e.g. for a household of four, the gross monthly income cannot exceed $2,790.00). 

LIHEAP Crisis operates on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted or through April 30, 2020, whichever comes first. 

“The extended deadline is great news,” said Tameka Laird, director of Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services, which administers LIHEAP locally as Louisville’s community action agency. “Our goal is that everyone who is eligible for LIHEAP, and in need of assistance, apply for this program.”

Modified service delivery for LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

Since  March 18, all six LIHEAP offices have been closed for walk-in clients in an effort to help stem the spread of COVID-19.  Residents can still apply for LIHEAP by mail or utilizing Drop Boxes in front of the six LIHEAP offices.

LIHEAP required documentation, along with the downloadable LIHEAP Family Profile form and the Remote Processing form, should be mailed as soon as possible and postmarked no later than April 30, 2020 to the central LIHEAP office at the following address: Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services offices at the following address:  The Edison Center, Attn:  LIHEAP, 701 W. Ormsby, Suite 201, Louisville, KY 40203. 

LIHEAP paperwork can also be dropped off at secure Drop Box sites in the front lobby of each of the six processing sites.   A copy of the required documentation is advisable but if original information is mailed, the LIHEAP staff will return to the applicant by mail.  LIHEAP applications will be processed by LIHEAP staff and mailed back to the recipient.  

LIHEAP Drop Boxes are available at the following locations:

·         Northwest Neighborhood Place/Academy at Shawnee, 4018 W Market St., 40212

·         South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave., 40215

·         Neighborhood Place Ujima/Duvalle Education Center, 3610 Bohne Ave., 40211

·         Neighborhood Place/Bridges of Hope, 1411 Algonquin Pkwy., 40210

·         Newburg Community Center/East, 4810 Exeter Ave., 40218

·         Southwest Government Center/Dixie Highway location. 7219 Dixie Highway, 40258

For more a full list of required documentation, LIHEAP eligibility and other more instructions, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP. Residents may also call the automated LIHEAP information line at 991-8391 or visit www.louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.

Individuals who require more information can contact Metro311 by simply dialing 311 or (502) 574-5000, email metro.311@louisvilleky.gov, tweet @LouMetro311, Web: loiusvilleky.gov/tell311, or download the free Mobile Louisville Metro 311 app from the website. Residents can also call Metro United Way’s 2-1-1 help referral service.

LIHEAP is made possible by the United States Department of Health and Human Services and is a pass through block grant from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, which contracts with Community Action Agencies across the state. Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) serves as the administering agency of the Louisville Metro Community Action Agency. For more information about RCS, visit our website: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services or call Community Action Kentucky at 1-800-456-3452.

Apply for a 30% Senior Discount on Sewer Services

If you'd like to apply for a 30% Senior Citizen Discount of the amount billed for sanitary sewer service and the EPA Consent Decree Surcharge, please print, complete and return the form.  You must be able to provide documentation verifying:

• you are the legal title/leaseholder/renter of the property
• you are 65 years of age or older
• your household gross income is $35,000 or less per year.

Click HERE for the form.

Reminder about Homestead Exemption, which can help seniors with property taxes

The Homestead Exemption is basically a senior discount on property taxes. If you are 65 years or older, or if you will turn 65 in 2020, and you own and occupy your primary residence (as of 1/1/2020), then you qualify to exempt the first $39,300 of your home value from property taxes.  In the Urban Services District, this equals $527 cash in your pocket annually – not an insignificant sum – and, once approved, you are not required to reapply unless you move. 

In some states, the Homestead Exemption is automatic, but in Kentucky, you need to apply.  Complete this one-page form and mail it, along with a copy of your driver’s license (or ID), to the PVA. You’ll get a letter back that looks like this. You can’t apply online, you'll be notified by a postcard, and many people are unaware of their rights, including seniors who have lost a spouse or live alone on a fixed income.

Homeowners who are veterans of the United States Armed Forces and have a service connected disability, or civilians who have been determined to be totally and permanently disabled under the rules of the Social Security Administration or the Kentucky Retirement Systems, may also qualify for a homestead exemption. More information is here. 

If you know a homesteader who may qualify, please let them know! 

Food Pantry open in District 2

Open every 2^nd Monday of the month -- 10am - 12pm

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• Serving households in the 40213, 40218 & 40219 Zip Codes Only
• First Come, First Served Basis
• Picture ID & proof of residency required!

Sponsored By: 

Peace Presbyterian Church

4210 East Indian Trail

Louisville, KY  40213

Upcoming Events at Newburg Library!

SummerWorks Registration is Now Open!

SummerWorks is a free program that matches young people in Louisville to quality summer job opportunities! SummerWorks jobs include many different industries, including hospitality, advanced manufacturing, business, and many more.

To be eligible, youth must be 16-21 years of age as of June 1, 2020 and a resident of Louisville.

To learn more about the program and to apply, please visit https://www.summerworks.org/sign-up.

Waste Reduction Center on Meriwether to close for maintenance indefinitely starting February 24

Alternate locations for drop-off involve a cost for services: 

Waste Management of Kentucky, 7501 Grade Lane, 785-8663. Open Monday through Friday 5:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Note: If unloading by hand you need to be in an hour before close.

Rumpke, 1101 W Oak Street, 800-828-8171. Open to the public from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Republic, 4446 Poplar Level Road, 634-2900. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The following locations for Smith Creek will take brush, leaves, bulk grass and grass cuttings in paper/compostable bags only: 

• 4574 Melton Avenue, Louisville
• 5918 Haunz Lane, Louisville    

Monday thru Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. No weekend hours. 377-9026. 

New interactive map makes legal Short Term Rentals easy to find

Short term rental enforcement continues in large part to be complaint-driven, based on public reporting of alleged violations to administrators.

Now, there is a new tool available to help. This interactive map contains all of the registered short term rentals in Louisville having an active permit to rent their property out to paying customers on STR websites like Airbnb.

In the map sample at upper left, light blue represents properties with active registrations. Green indicates properties with active registrations and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), which is required to rent the property if it is not the owner's primary residence.

If you believe someone is using a property as a short term rental but it does not show up on this registry, or if the registry indicates a non-owner occupied property does not have a CUP, then please report the issue here (select “Zoning and Business Concerns,” “Zoning Concern,” “Short Term Rental,” complete the form and submit). Or contact our office. 

Report a Litterer!

Get directly involved in making Louisville a more litter-free community through the Report-A-Litterer program aimed at motorists who throw fast-food wrappers, cigarette butts, soda bottles, or any type of litter out of their car window. 

Click Here to Report!

LouieConnect

Louisville non-profits have launched a new website to help connect people in need of food, shelter, and more.  Metro United Way and the Family Scholar House partnered to create LouieConnect, modeling it on a similar site created in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  When someone uses LouieConnect, the web-based app asks for basic information and then lists applicable resources nearby — from food pantries to shelters to career centers to financial literacy programs.

***Important Metro Services Phone Numbers***

• Air Pollution: (502) 574-6000
• Animal Services: (502) 363-6609 or (502) 361-1318
• Brightside: (502) 574-2613
• Community Services & Revitalization: (502) 574-4377
• Congressman John Yarmuth: (502) 582-5129
• IPL (Code Enforcement): (502) 574-3321
• Legal Aid Society: (502) 584-1254
• LG&E Business: (502) 627-3313 or (800)- 331-7370
• LG&E Residential: (502) 589-1444 or (800) 331-7370
• LMPD 6th Division: (502) 574-2187
• LMPD Anonymous Tipline: (502) 574-LMPD (5673)
• LMPD: (Non Emergency): (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-2111
• Louisville Forward/Economic Development: (502) 574-4140
• Master Commissioner Jefferson Circuit Court (Foreclosure Sales): (502) 753-       4888
• Mayor Greg Fischer: (502) 574-2003
• Metro311: 311 or (502) 574-5000
• Metro Parks: (502) 456-8100
• Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD): (502) 540-6000
• Metro Safe: (502) 572-3460 or (502) 574-7111
• PARC: (502) 569-6222
• Planning & Design Services: (502) 574-6230
• Property Valuation Administrator (PVA): (502) 574-4016
• Public Works: (502) 574-5810
• Solid Waste Management (SWMS): (502) 574-3571
• TARC: (502) 585-1234
• Vacant & Public Property Administration: (502) 574-4016
• Your State Representative or State Senator: http://www.lrc.ky.gov