Air Quality Alert Day tomorrow: ozone will be unhealthy for sensitive groups

Saturday, June 20 is an Air Quality Alert Day for ozone in Louisville/Southern Indiana. Forecasters believe ozone will be in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (orange) range. Sensitive groups include seniors, children, and people with breathing ailments like asthma and COPD. The general public is not likely to be affected.

Check the air quality at louisvilleky.gov/airquality

June 22 and 23 - In-person voting at the Kentucky Exposition Center

All voters are eligible to use a mail-in absentee ballot in the June 23 primary due to COVID-19. Tuesday, June 23 is the postmark deadline for mail-in absentee ballots.

The mail-in absentee ballot will be mailed to you. If you have applied online, you can track your ballot status at: https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/VIC/. You may also call 574-6100 or e-mail the Jefferson County Clerk's Office.

If you have not received your mail-in ballot and you wish to vote in person, you can vote in person. You will be asked to tear up your mail in ballot if you receive it.

The ballot has specific requirements such as the two places to sign on the envelopes, how the ballot goes into one envelope, how that envelope goes into another envelope. These mail-in ballots will have postage paid for this election.

Here's a link to a facebook video on how to vote by mail.

In-person voting

Note: everyone is required to wear a mask as these are government buildings.

In-Person voting at the Election Center
Where: Edison Building, 701 W. Ormsby
When: Monday June 22 | 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A drop box is available inside the Edison Building. Call the Election Center at 574-6100 with questions.

In-Person voting at the Kentucky Exposition Center
Where: 937 Phillips Lane, South Wing, A and B
When: Monday, June 22 | 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Enter at Gate 4. Parking is free. No appointment necessary.

**ELECTION DAY** All In-Person Voting at the Kentucky Exposition Center
Where: 937 Phillips Lane, South Wing, A and B
When: Tuesday, June 23 | 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. If you are in line at 6 p.m., you can still vote.
Enter at Gates 2, 4 (Crittenden Drive) and 6 (Preston Highway) as the main KEC entrance is under construction. Parking is free.

You will need to provide ONLY one of the following forms of identification to vote In-Person Absentee:

• Personal acquaintance by the poll worker
• Driver’s license, can be expired
• Social Security card
• Any identification card with picture and signature
• Any United States or Kentucky government-issued identification card
• Any credit card, no picture needed and can be expired

If your name is not on the voter rooster, you can appeal immediately to the Board of Election and a judge at KEC. You may also ask for a Provisional Ballot for only the federal races.

TARC providing free Election Day shuttle service from Union Station to the Kentucky Exposition Center

On Election Day, June 23, TARC will provide shuttle service from Union Station, 1000 W. Broadway, to voting polls at the Kentucky Exposition Center. This fare-free shuttle service will run every 30 minutes, beginning at 6 a.m. from Union Station and ending at 6:30 p.m. from the Expo Center. Routes 10 (Dixie BRT), 23, and the 99 all have direct stops at Union Station. TARC would like to remind all passengers that due to COVID-19 restrictions in place, ridership on ALL TARC BUSES—including the Election Day shuttle service—still require face coverings to ride, and passengers to exit via the rear door.

Natural beauty at the roadside

Thanks to Jessica Pita, who shared some recent photos of wildflowers at Kentucky Transportation Cabinet property at Durrett Lane and Lucas Avenue. "The space looks BEAUTIFUL with all these native wildflowers and plants having had a chance to bloom!" Pita said. "As a Camp Taylor resident that lives very near this property, I'm so glad it's not cut often. In my humble opinion I think it'd be best to not cut it at all - it's becoming a pollinator's paradise." Pita and friends have been removing ivy from trees on the KYTC property. "If you look closely you'll see in the background one of the younger trees we freed from ivy a couple of months ago (along with 4-5 other trees)," Pita said. "We're still hopeful to get more boots on the ground and hands on the trees there to de-ivy there." Thanks again for Jessica for taking the initiative, and we'll share in the enews when the next ivy removal event will be.

Klondike Lane scheduled for paving next week

Klondike Lane, from Six Mile Lane to Hikes Lane, is scheduled for paving by Louisville Metro Public Works the week of June 22. The schedule is subject to change due to weather and/or operational factors.

Large items pickup in Area A next week

Large item pickup is scheduled for Area A next week. Residents may begin setting out items Friday afternoon, June 19.

Reminder: Construction and demolition materials are NOT accepted, and tree trimmings must be bundled properly. Check Collection Guidelines here.

To receive automatic reminders of large item set out dates, download the Recycle Coach waste information and calendar app at the App Store or on Google Play.

Louisville Metro proposes using federal COVID-19 relief funds for eviction prevention, small business assistance

Louisville Metro Government has proposed allocating $42.4 million in federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, & Economic Security) Act money toward small business assistance and eviction prevention. “The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every part of our lives, from our homes to our workplaces,” said Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer. “That’s why I propose we use part of the federal CARES funding to mitigate some of the worst impacts of the pandemic – the increased threat of evictions and economic uncertainty among our small businesses.” “Housing is a basic human right, and we must increase our support for our fellow residents who are housing-unstable to prevent them from becoming homeless,” he continued. “At the same time, it is critical that we support the small businesses that are the backbone of our local economy, providing much needed jobs and revenue.” Louisville has received $133.8 million in funds through the CARES Act to date, and according to federal guidelines, all funds must be spent by Dec. 30, 2020. “I think it’s important, as we prepare to distribute federal COVID-19 funding, that we focus on small businesses and housing, including renters,” said Council President David James. The Louisville Metro Council Budget Committee learned more about the city’s plan during a special meeting held Monday. Both committee chair, Councilman Bill Hollander, and vice chair, Councilman Kevin Kramer, expressed support for using CARES funding to help residents. “The federal Coronavirus Relief Fund is designed for use by local governments to deal with the public health emergency and the economic effects of the restrictions to deal with it,” said Councilman Hollander, District 9. “Small businesses in Louisville have suffered greatly, and we should do all we can to assist them and help them survive. Keeping people in their homes and apartments, and preventing homelessness is also critical. Both small business support and housing assistance are good investments in Louisville and its people.” “We’re grateful that the CARES funding is more flexible than we first thought. We look forward to continuing budget discussions to determine the best ways to assist our constituents to the recover from shutdown created by COVID,” Councilman Kramer, District 11. Eviction prevention The current rental delinquency rate in Louisville is estimated at between 20 and 30 percent, compared to the average rate of five to 10 percent, according to the Louisville Apartment Association, which represents half of the approximately 121,000 rental units in the city. In late March, Gov. Andy Beshear suspended eviction filings until July 1. As that date approaches, households that cannot afford to pay their rent because of loss or reduction of income, as a result of the pandemic, face possible eviction. Louisville Metro is proposing to use $21.2 million in CARES dollars to help households who are behind on rent payments as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. That amount would serve at least 6,075 households for three months (with any additional funds proposed for either serving them for more months and/or reaching more households). Under the proposed plan, individuals or families earning at or below 60 percent of the area median income ($45,840 annually for a family of four) would be eligible to receive three months of rental assistance. The median gross rent in Louisville is $770. Rental assistance would be provided through both a tenant-based application and a new process where landlords of federally subsidized units could apply directly on behalf of their tenants, streamlining the application process by eliminating the need for income verification and allowing the landlord to seek funding for multiple tenants at one time. Louisville Metro Housing Authority, the Office of Resilience and Community Services and the Office of Housing will coordinate the efforts. Small business assistance Small businesses in our city help keep Louisville funky, fun and unique. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of them were forced to shut their doors temporarily, creating hardship for both the business owners and their employees. Some remain closed or can only operate on a limited basis. To assist small business that are still struggling from the pandemic’s economic fallout, Louisville Metro proposes to allocate $21.2 million in federal CARES funds toward a new small business grant program that could help as many as 400 small businesses. The program will focus on retail, food service, arts and entertainment, recreation and childcare businesses.       The grants would provide up to $50,000 to businesses with 20 full-time employees or fewer that were negatively impacted by COVID-19. Non-retail businesses with up to 50 full-time employees that have remained closed or have been severely impacted by state COVID-19 guidelines may also be eligible. At least 50 percent of the program funds would be dedicated to businesses in low- to moderate-income census tracts, and the program will seek to exceed Metro’s goals of allocating more than 15 percent of its dollars to businesses owned by minorities, women and disabled individuals. Eligible expenses include payroll, utilities, mortgage/rent, fixed costs, such as interest on debt service and insurance, and the integration of a new web-based platform for online sales. Existing aid to households, small businesses The newly proposed programs would augment existing efforts by Louisville Metro Government to assist households facing eviction and small businesses. On March 31, Louisville Metro announced creation of the Small Business Continuity Loan Program, a fund that has provided zero-interest loans of up to $25,000 to very small businesses in order to cover operating expense. Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) LHOME, in partnership with Louisville Forward, has distributed 68 loans to date. Louisville Forward also deferred payments for METCO loan holders for up to three months, and its economic development team has connected more than 800 business of all sizes to COVID-19 resources, including providing technical assistance for the Paycheck Protection and Emergency Injury Disaster Loan programs offered through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Funds through METCO, the city’s small business loan fund, are still available. For the past three months, Louisville Metro has combated rent delinquencies from a tenant-based approach. To date, the Office of Resilience and Community Services has distributed more than $1.7 million raised through the One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund to landlords and/or utility companies on behalf of 2,122 households. Another 63 applications, totaling $22,820, are currently being processed. Louisville Metro has received an additional $12.1 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a portion of which the city expects to use for eviction prevention and housing stabilization for low-income and homeless persons pending approvals from HUD.

One Louisville:  COVID-19 Response Fund

Now there's an even easier option for applying for the One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund.

Eligible households seeking assistance can apply online and submit required documentation via a secure portal.

See more details at louisvilleky.gov/oneloufund.

Income eligible households, with a verifiable loss of income - directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic - and a demonstrated need, may be eligible to receive payment assistance up to $1,000 per household. Funds will be distributed on a first come, first served basis until available funding is expended.

ouisville Mayor Greg Fischer announced Tuesday that the One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund and the James Graham Brown Foundation are contributing a combined $1.3 million to provide more summer opportunities for young people ages 16-21 through SummerWorks this season.

The One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund, which was started in March through a coalition of local philanthropic organizations, is contributing $800,000 to the SummerWorks 2020 initiatives, while the James Graham Brown Foundation is adding another $500,000. This more than doubles the $1.1 million SummerWorks had budgeted for this summer. 

“The leaders at the One Louisville fund and James Graham Brown Foundation have really stepped up for the youth in our community during this difficult time,” Mayor Fischer said. “Because of their extremely generous and timely gifts, hundreds more young people who are most in need will be able to earn money, get valuable experience, and learn skills that will help prepare them for the future of work.” 

The Mayor also announced two new elements for SummerWorks.

• The first is a SummerWorks Fellowship on civic engagement, borne from the recent protests on the streets of Louisville and cities across the nation. Twenty to 25 youth will participate in the fellowship, and be provided a curriculum, research and guidance led by the city’s Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods.

The youths will work on a project related to the impact of structural racism on our city, culminating with a report to Mayor Fischer on ways to make Louisville a more peaceful, just, compassionate and equitable community.

“It has become abundantly clear over the past few weeks that the youths in our city want to be involved in the serious transformation we know we need in our city and nation to end structural racism and build an equitable community,” the Mayor said. “This SummerWorks fellowship will provide the space for that, along with a summer paycheck.”

• Approximately $300,000 of the $1.3 million will go to support a new SummerWorks Tech Academy initiative, which is designed to incentivize youth to learn valuable digital skills by paying them to complete online courses. Participants will be able to earn up to $1,200 over the course of the summer by acquiring “digital badges” worth $50-$200 each. Courses include introductions to software programming, digital business applications, video game development, digital music production, and much more.  

To participate in the SummerWorks Tech Academy, youth must be 16-21 and live in Louisville. They do not need to already have a SummerWorks job. Learn more and get updates on how to register at www.summerworks.org/tech. 

Michael Gritton, Executive Director of KentuckianaWorks, which oversees SummerWorks, said the new funding for SummerWorks, and the new programs are incredibly important in economic times like this, when unemployment is at record-highs and private businesses are facing a lot of uncertainty.

“The KentuckianaWorks Board and these two extraordinary funders share a deep commitment to equity,” he said, “and these new investments will lead directly to many young people of color getting experiences and skills that will improve their long-term educational and employment outcomes.” 

The majority of the new $1.3 million will go toward funding 300 new sponsored jobs for youth this summer at a variety of local agencies and nonprofits, along with the 20-25 youths participating in the fellowship. This will take the total number of sponsored jobs to 450 or more, a record high since 2011. Sponsored jobs, which are funded through private donations (as opposed to private sector positions funded by employers), go to Louisville youth in the greatest need of economic opportunity. All of the positions involve at least 30 hours a week of work and will pay at least $10 per hour. 

SummerWorks has reopened registration for a limited amount of time to fill the newly funded positions, including the fellowship spots. Louisville youth 16-21 can register at www.summerworks.org. 

In his remarks the Mayor also referenced the results of a 2019 study conducted by the Kentucky Center for Statistics, which found a variety of positive outcomes associated with SummerWorks, including higher graduation and employment rates for participants compared to similar youth who did not participate in the program.  

“We know from the data that SummerWorks leads to better outcomes for the participants and our community, so it’s very encouraging to see our leaders rallying behind it when it’s needed most,” he said. “These kinds of investments help make Louisville a more fair and equitable city.” 

SummerWorks is operated by YouthBuild Louisville in partnership with KentuckianaWorks, the Louisville Region’s Workforce Development Board.

Drive-through COVID-19 testing available at Norton Respiratory Illness Testing Center on Audubon Plaza Drive

Drive-through COVID-19 testing at Norton Respiratory Illness Testing Center is available by appointment only. Please schedule an appointment by calling 861-4611, option 1, or click here.

The Norton Respiratory Illness Testing Center is at 3101 Poplar Level Road, in the former Walmart Neighborhood Market building.The map below shows how to access the drive through testing site.

A list of COVID-19 testing sites in Jefferson County is here.

Metro wants your input on LMPD's next permanent Chief of Police

Share your priorities for Louisville’s next permanent chief of police in a new survey. The Mayor relieved former Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) Chief Steve Conrad of his duties on June 1, and named Robert Schroeder as LMPD’s acting chief, pending the hiring of a permanent chief. Mayor Fischer announced on June 3 that the city had hired the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), a non-profit Washington, D.C.-based police research organization to lead the search, noting that PERF has identified best practices for cities across the country on fundamental issues such as reducing police use of force; developing community policing and problem-oriented policing; using technology to deliver police services to the community; and evaluating crime reduction strategies. Specifically, he said, residents are asked to share: The three most important qualities or skills you would like to see in the next police chief; Your suggestions for improving police services; and What a new chief must accomplish immediately, and over the next two to three years. At the same time, PERF will survey LMPD employees by asking similar questions. The input of both the public and the department are important. The community survey will be up for at least three weeks and can be accessed at https://arcg.is/18fTnS. Metro is working to set up a phone line for those without access to a computer. In addition to the survey, PERF will hold listening sessions over the next month, with various focus groups being held across the community. After that, PERF will review and analyze all the information residents provide to help pinpoint the qualities and characteristics needed for the city’s next police chief. They will use that information to conduct a national search and create a list of qualified candidates. Next steps include convening a small group of community and Louisville Metro representatives to review the list, narrow it, conduct interviews, and send the Mayor their final recommendations. The entire process is expected to take four to six months. The Mayor stressed that Metro Council will be involved in the process, encouraging people to take the survey, helping identify focus groups participants and recommending members of the group convened to do interviews.

Expanded COVID-19 contact tracing continues

Lacuna Health, the Louisville-based company hired to conduct COVID-19 contract tracing services with the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW), has begun its work.  

“Widespread COVID-19 testing and expanded contact tracing are how we plan to ‘box in’ the virus as we loosen social distancing protocols and until a vaccine is developed and available,” said Dr. Sarah Moyer, director of LMPHW and the city’s chief health strategist. “The better we do at testing and contact tracing, the more successful our reopening will be.”

Dr. Moyer outlined the contact tracing process saying, “We will call those who have tested positive for COVID-19 to ask how they are feeling, give them instructions on how to stay safe at home, and get them help they need it. We will also ask about people they were in close contact with. Contact tracers will reach out to these people to let them know they may have been exposed so they, too, can quarantine and protect themselves, their family and others from potentially getting the virus.

Dr. Moyer also emphasized that protecting people’s privacy and confidentiality is important. “We don’t ask you for your social security number or any credit card information. We don’t give your close contacts your name unless you give us permission,” she said. “We don’t share your information with law enforcement or immigration officials.”

When contact tracers call individuals, “LOU-HEALTH” will display on caller ID.

Testing

Bill Altman, who is overseeing and coordinating COVID-19 testing for LMPHW announced that COVID-19 testing opportunities in Louisville are expanding.

A full list of testing sites can be found here.

Business compliance inspections

Connie Mendel, deputy director for LMPHW, has received 3,365 COVID-19 related complaints since March 23. As LMPHW staff return to their regular duties of inspecting restaurants and public facilities and as they are now examining reopening plans for various businesses and institutions, some COVID-19 complaints will be referred to partnering agencies such as the Kentucky Office of the Inspector General and the Kentucky Labor Cabinet.

Reopening Kentucky's economy continues

Healthy at Work continues as more businesses reopen. All businesses should follow the 10 rules of staying healthy at work as well as industry-specific guidance, which will be issued as soon as possible. Businesses or industry groups may submit a proposal to reopen here.

Upcoming dates for reopening are:

July 29 – Bars, gatherings of 50 or fewer people and youth sports (expanded activities)

Reminder: People should be prepared for state and local public health orders to be extended, amended, or changed as needed to protect public health.

For details, go to the Kentucky Healthy at Work page.

Wear a mask in public

All Kentuckians are required to wear masks in public. Police will not enforce or write tickets, however businesses are encouraged to reject service to citizens refusing to participate. More information from Kentucky Public Health is here.

This Centers for Disease Control and Prevention page includes sew and no-sew mask instructions.

Waste Reduction Center is open

After some much-needed maintenance, the Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue reopened on Tuesday, June 2. To reduce COVID-19 contamination risks, these updated policies and procedures will be in place to keep employees and patrons safe:

• All personnel must wear a mask when interacting with customers.
• Payment booth operator must wear mask, gloves, and safety glasses.
• Customers must wear a mask or face covering when exiting their vehicle at the electronics recycling area, payment booth, and debris drop-off area.
• Customers checking in at the payment booth should remain in their vehicle if possible. They must not reach through the window and must use the clipboard for transactions.

At the Waste Reduction Center: Louisville/Jefferson County residents can dispose of up to four tires, up to three large household items, and up to three electronic devices for free. Residents may also dispose of metal, tree limbs and stumps up to three feet in diameter, unbagged yard waste, and construction debris for a fee. The Waste Reduction Center is located at 636 Meriwether Avenue and is open Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m to 3 p.m. 

AARP offers Friendly Voices call for senior citizens

Recognizing that many senior citizens are homebound and unable to see their family and friends these days, AARP created a toll-free phone line so they can just hear a friendly voice.

“We mostly are hearing about people feeling lonely, feeling isolated,” Rawlins said. “This is a friendly phone call – not a doctor, not a counselor… just someone to let them get some things off their chest, express how they’re feeling, what they’re afraid of.”

To request an AARP Friendly Voices call, click here or call 1-888-281-0145.

COVID-19 information links

COVID-19 Response: Community & Agency Actions Taken to Assist Our Most Vulnerable information page, which includes many links on topics from state and federal relief to utility bills to COVID-19 flyers in 14 different languages. Also includes updates on businesses providing time for shopping only for residents over 60 and those most vulnerable to COVID-19.

Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness page: https://louisvilleky.gov/news/what-you-need-know-about-coronavirus

The official Team Kentucky source for information concerning COVID-19: kycovid19.ky.gov

Governor Andy Beshear's press releases: https://governor.ky.gov/news

Kentucky Department for Public Health COVID-19 page: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/pages/covid19.aspx

Kentucky COVID-19 Hotline: 1-800-722-5725.

Centers for Disease Control site: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

If you believe you have been a target or victim of a scam or fraud, please report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via email at disaster@leo.gov

Kentuckians wishing to report online scams and fraud can contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx

To file a price gouging complaint, visit ag.ky.gov/pricegouging or call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257.

Unemployment insurance: Go to kcc.ky.gov, call the UI Help line at 502-564-2900 or the Kentucky Career Center at 595-4003.

Updates to small business resources are here.

No evictions can proceed until July 1. Details are here: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/develop-louisville/eviction-prevention.

Legal Aid Society: call 584-1254 or 800-292-1862 or apply online. Specific information is available on your rights as a tenant, survivors of domestic violence needing a protective order, those with questions about unemployment insurance, and those with questions about stimulus payments.

KentuckianaWorks and GLI online jobs board 

From KentuckianaWorks: You can see which companies are hiring right now in the Louisville area and how you can apply at our new online Job Board, created in partnership with Greater Louisville Inc. in response to COVID-19. Job listings are based on information submitted from employers and are updated daily. Learn more

Be informed about crimes with LMPD's crime mapping website

The Louisville Metro Police Department uses a Crime Mapping website to display crime on a map in Jefferson County. Zoom in to see crimes in an area, or put an address in the address bar at top left to search. You may sign up for auto email alerts for crime around an address. Reports are made available to the public after a process of internal review, often in the same day as the report taken. Due to the nature of some crimes, reports are made available to public upon the completion of a thorough investigation and will be made available as soon as practical. Or use the crime mapping iPhone app. If you see crime occurring, please contact the Louisville Metro Police Department. Call 911 for emergencies. Call 502-574-7111 for non-emergency related help or to find a towed vehicle. Call 574-LMPD to report crime tips. These LMPD divisions serve sections of District 10: Link to LMPD Fourth Division  Link to LMPD Fifth Division Link to LMPD Sixth Division

Call LMPD's non-emergency line, rather than sending an email, to report suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

LMPD working in District 10 have asked us to share this reminder: please call the Louisville Metro Police Department non-emergency number, instead of sending an email, if you're seeing suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

Sending emails to LMPD results in time delays, and officers need to be dispatched for the activity. These citations continue the nuisance abatement process.

The LMPD non-emergency line is 574-7111 or 574-2111.

City's Community Action Agency accepting applications for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

New spring enrollment period added in response to COVID-19 crisis

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services, as part of the Community Action Agency network in Kentucky, is now taking applications for an added spring open enrollment period for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Applications will be accepted through June 30 or until designated funds are depleted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Spring LIHEAP program, which is designed to help low-income households offset home energy costs, has increased income eligibility requirements to 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Income eligible residents can apply regardless of the status of their utility bills. The benefit amount awarded is based on an individual’s income and primary fuel type. Benefits are paid directly to the primary fuel vendor in the form of a voucher.

Jefferson County residents wishing to apply must schedule an appointment utilizing the automated appointment system. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling 991-8391 or online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com. The toll-free service is currently open and is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

All six LIHEAP offices remain closed for walk-in clients in an effort to help stem the spread of COVID-19.  Residents can still apply for LIHEAP by utilizing secure drop boxes in front of the six LIHEAP offices. Details and location information are here.

For more descriptions about LIHEAP income eligibility, required documentation and other instructions, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP.

Please don't litter, especially gloves and masks

Public Education Supervisor, Karen Maynard, speaks about the shift we've seen in the type of items littered on streets and in parking lots. "I think we can all be mindful of our trash, make sure it gets into the right containers, and also be safe at the same time." Watch video

Please pick up after your dog!

With more people out and about...please pIck up after your dog, it's the law.

Secure your dog for utility workers' safety

With more customers working from and spending time at home, it’s likely your dog may be
spending more time outdoors during the day. Unfortunately, dog bites are a leading cause of
injury to LG&E meter readers and field technicians.

We all love our pets and want to keep them safe, but even the friendliest dogs can become
startled or upset – maybe even aggressive - when a stranger comes onto its owner's property.
LG&E trains employees on how to prevent dog attacks, but you can help LG&E keep their
employees – and your pet – safe. Contain your dog away from the meter on reading days, or
when work is scheduled on your property. You can find your scheduled meter reading dates in
the top section of your monthly LG&E bill or when you sign in to your online LG&E account.
Learn more here.

District 10 events

Louisville Zoo extends member days, postpones general admission 

by one week

Due to member excitement and demand for tickets, but limited capacity, Louisville Zoo officials announced today that Member Days will be extended through July 3. Ticket sales for general admission will be announced at a later date.

“We knew our community would be excited to return to their Zoo and many of our members have enjoyed a visit this past week,” said Louisville Zoo Director John Walczak. “We heard from many members who weren’t able to visit, asking us for a bit more time — and we are listening. We met our member capacity quickly and have made adjustments to allow more members an opportunity to enjoy their Zoo within our COVID-19 operational guidelines.”

With the consultation of Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, the Zoo is gradually and safely increasing attendance capacity to best serve the community.

Extended member opportunities for June 26 through July 3 will be made available on the Louisville Zoo’s website beginning Monday, June 22 at 10 a.m. 

Everyone, including members, must reserve tickets online at LouisvilleZoo.org/tickets. No one will be admitted without a ticket. Members and guests will be asked to choose their date and hour of arrival. This will help to reduce contact and manage guest capacity. Ticket entry will be valid for the assigned date and hour only, however guests may enjoy the Zoo at their leisure. In order to accommodate the most guests, the Zoo requests that members limit their visits to one per week during this initial phase. The special ticketing policy, including frequently asked questions about the Zoo’s reopening, is available at https://www.louisvillezoo.org/together.

The Zoo has remained in communication with the Mayor’s office and the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness throughout the COVID-19 response and has closely worked with them on the reopening. The Zoo will be following the latest safety guidelines.  

Staff undergo mandatory temperature checks as they arrive to work. All staff in public areas are required to wear masks. We strongly encourage guests to wear masks as well. Zoo keepers continue to wear masks around vulnerable animal populations. 

The Zoo is cleaning and disinfecting high-touch areas frequently. All restrooms are open with step-and-pull entry or touchless access. Zoo staff and signage throughout the Zoo are in place to help encourage social distancing.

Louisville Nature Center

New Club Nature Virtual Camps Nature exploration meets social distancing with Club Nature Virtual Camps! Each day, your child will open up a different activity bag stuffed with materials to aid in outdoor exploration, experiments, and crafts. Campers can also watch daily instructional videos by LNC educators, plus share their discoveries and creations on a private forum. It's the perfect way to learn about nature in your own backyard! If you've been looking forward to Summer Day Camps, you're in luck! Visit our website to check out this summer's in-person camp themes, plus learn how we've adapted our camps to adhere to CDC guidelines and keep your child safe.

YouTube channel
Looking for ways to keep yourself and the kids busy at home? The Louisville Nature Center has you covered. Check out our YouTube channel for a virtual visit to our bird blind, a bug hunt in the woods, and other fun outdoor activities. We'll be sharing lots of content in the coming weeks, so be sure to subscribe to our channel to avoid missing out.

For even more fun, you can also like our Facebook page and check out nature activities for at-home learning and exploring every Tuesday and Thursday.

Register for programs at louisvillenaturecenter.org.

Pets of the Week

Herman is a big old cuddle bug who’s absolutely positive he’s a lap dog. The approximately one-year-old Mastiff weighs 146 pounds. There is nothing Herman loves more than cuddling with whomever is available. He has never met a stranger and loves everyone he meets, especially kids. Chasing tennis balls and children around the backyard are a couple of his favorite things to do - but only for a while, and then he is ready for more cuddles and naps. Herman enjoys car rides and walks, but is still working on how to walk on a leash without pulling and basic manners. Herman is housebroken! Adopt this handsome boy for free with an approved application, thanks to the Pay It Forward Program. Herman is already neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Meet him at Animal House Adoption Center, open daily from noon to 6 p.m. For more information about Herman, email Animal Services.

Peaches and her friends are the newest group of kittens to graduate from foster to adoptable. It’s kitten season and we have plenty of fur babies who will need good homes. Adopt any kitten by making a $100 donation to the Pay It Forward Program. Spay/neuter, vaccinations and microchip are included! Peaches is a friendly cat who received plenty of socialization during her time in a foster home. Meet her at Animal House Adoption Center, 3516 Newburg Road, open daily from noon to 6 p.m. For more info about Peaches, email  or call 502-473-PETS

Louisville Metro News

MSD offers a rate assistance program for qualifying senior citizens

Senior citizens who are age 65 or older, have a gross annual household income of $35,000 or less and are both Louisville Water Company and MSD customers may request an application for a 30 percent discount on wastewater charges and the EPA Consent Decree Surcharge through MSD's website or by calling Customer Relations at 540-6000.

Save up to $100 on a new electric powered mower from Lawn Care for Cleaner Air

From the Lawn Care for Cleaner Air program for the Air Pollution Control District: Most of us are stuck at home and many things have changed, but your grass is still growing. Why not take advantage of the Lawn Care for Cleaner Air program and save up to $100 on a new, air-friendly, electric-powered mower? You can get rebates on electric string trimmers, electric blowers, and reel mowers too. (Make sure to practice social distancing when making your purchase, of course!) Now is a great time to recycle that old, polluting equipment and save some cash on new gear that will make breathing a little easier for you and your community. You can also get larger rebates on more powerful equipment with our Lawn Care for Cleaner Air Professional program. Please see our website, louisvilleky.gov/lawncare, or call 574-6000 if you have any questions.

Louisville Free Public Library updates

• While libraries are closed, patrons are encouraged to check out eBooks, eMagazines, and downloadable audiobooks, and stream movies and music online at LFPL.org.
• Students working on schoolwork are encouraged to take advantage of online Research Tools.
• LFPL is not enforcing late fees. 
• Pick up dates have been extended and hold requests have been suspended so that patrons will not lose their place in line for items.

Homestead Exemption can help seniors with property taxes

Are you 65 years of age or older, or will you turn 65 in 2020? Do you own and occupy your primary residence (as of 1/1/2020)? You may qualify to exempt the first $39,300 of your home value from property taxes through the The Homestead Exemption. In the Urban Services District, this equals $527 cash in your pocket annually and, once approved, you are not required to reapply unless you move. 

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'll be notified by a postcard if you qualify.

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!

Louisville Metro events

Enjoy virtual Shakespeare in the Park online this summer

Mayor's virtual spring hike bike and paddle is a great way to stay engaged while continuing to stay healthy and safe.

Looking for a new way to continue exercising while staying safe and healthy? We've got you covered! A first-of-its-kind, the Mayor's Virtual Spring Hike, Bike and Paddle is a unique way to keep our participants, volunteers, staff, partners and community safe while helping prevent the spread of COVID-19. This virtual version of the Mayor's bi-annual event runs from now through June 20th. SIGN-UP TODAY!

June 1 to August 8 - LFPL Summer Reading

Summer Reading and Cultural Pass are back for 2020! Learn more and register at www.lfpl.org/summerreading

Reading is rewarding in more ways than one. This summer, all babies, toddlers, kids, and teens who complete Summer Reading will receive a throwback backpack, along with passes to local attractions (when they re-open), and yummy treats, AND will be entered into grand prize drawings.

The Library's annual Summer Reading Program is presented by The Library Foundation. The 2020 Cultural Pass is presented in partnership with Metro Government, Fund for the Arts, Arts & Culture Alliance, and LFPL.

Through August 7 - ECHO Summer Adventures

ECHO is partnering with our Community Centers to provide ECHO summer adventure camps - virtually. Here’s a link with specific dates and theme weeks for virtual summer camp opportunities.

2020 Tentative interstate and state-maintained road mowing start dates

7/6 Two-lane road mowing in counties 7/13 Litter/mowing on all interstate highways 8/24 Litter/mowing on all interstate highways 9/7 Two-lane road mowing in counties 10/26 Litter/mowing on all interstate highways, with the exception of I-265, which will be delayed until after the first frost if that has not occurred by 10/26.  12/14 Last litter cycle on interstate highways Fine turf mowing along 1-65 and downtown bridge areas:  6/22, 7/6, 7/20, 8/3, 8/17, 8/31, 9/14, 9/28, 10/12.  All start dates are tentative and subject to change depending on the needs of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and weather conditions; official notifications will be sent out prior to the start of each cycle.

News you can use

ABC ad run for 1038 Ash Street

An ABC advertisement for an NQ3 Retail Drink license ran in the Louisville Courier-Journal June 3 for All Wool & A Yard Wide Democratic Club, Inc.,1038 Ash Street.

Any person, association, corporation, or body politic may protest the granting of the license(s) by writing the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, 500 Mero Street, 2 NE 33, Frankfort, KY, 40601, within 30 days of the date of this legal publication.

District 10 NDF and CIF appropriations

Councilman Mulvihill-initiated D10 Neighborhood Development Funds (NDF) and Capital Improvement Funds (CIF) appropriations. Link to NDF information is here, CIF information here.

Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services District 10 cases

Note: short term rental is the general term used to describe vacation rentals including AirBNB, VRBO, and Tripping. 

18MINORPLAT1040 for 4103 Lee Avenue, a minor subdivision plat to create 2 lots from 3 and shift property lines on .37 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

18MINORPLAT1074 for 4600 Jennings Lane. The applicant seeks to create two tracts from 1 on 0.105 acres in the M-3 zoning district.

19MINORPLAT1050 for 1990 Newburg Road. The applicant seeks to create three tracts from 1 on 9.514 acres in the R-5 zoning district for the Nazareth Literary and Benevolent Institution. 

19-MPLAT-0074, 4023 Poplar Level Road, former Kmart, a large format minor plat to create 4 tracts from 1 tract on 9.91 acres in the C1 zoning district.

19RECORDPLAT1007 for 3502 Grantswood Court, a major subdivision record plat for right-of-way dedication for Grantswood Court on 1.878 acres in the R-5 zoning district.

19CUP1095, 1038 Milton Street, A conditional use permit application for a proposed boarding house on 0.0908 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

19-DDP-0077, 4730 Champions Trace Lane, a revised district development plan for a medical office and dialysis center on 1.4 acres in the C2 zoning district. 
19-VARIANCE-0076, 4730 Champions Trace Lane, a variance from section 4.8.1 of the Land Development Code to allow the proposed pavement to encroach into the middle and outer 100ft stream buffer for a medical office on 1.4 acres in the C2 zoning district. 

19-DDP-0021, 3231 Poplar Level Road, a Detailed District Development Plan application for a 19,500 square foot proposed office building with associated parking on 4.5 acres in the OR1 and R5 zoning districts.
19-VARIANCE-0005, 3231 Poplar Level Road, variance requested for the building to exceed the 80' maximum front and streetside setback for Nightingale, Poplar Level and Quarry Hill Road. 

20-VARIANCE-0001, 910 Ash Street, request for a variance from LDC section 5.2.2 to allow encroachment into side yard setback. 

20-CAT2-0006, 4025 Poplar Level Road, a category 2b development plan for the construction of a new 2,998 SF Burger King Drive Thru on 9.914 acres in the C1 zoning district. 
20-LANDSCAPE-0006, 4025 Poplar Level Road, landscape plan for a restaurant on 9.9 acres in the C1 zoning district. 
20-WAIVER-0004, 4025 Poplar Level Road, a waiver from section 10.2 of the Land Development Code to allow the parking and dumpster to encroach into the 10' VUA (Vehicle Use Area) LBA (Landscape Buffer Area) along the entrance drive frontage on 9.9 acres in the C1 zoning district. 

19-CAT2-0011, 3800 Bishop Lane, a Category 2B development plan application for a proposed 10,000 square foot storage warehouse on 2.63 acres in the M2 zoning district. Barnes Automotive. 

19-CAT2-0016, 4664 Jennings Lane, Category 2B development plan for a proposed 34,700 square foot office building on 14.36 acres in the M2/M3 zoning district. LG&E South Service Center. 
19-CFR-0003, 4664 Jennings Lane, a community facility review application for the development of a 34,700 square foot, two story office building with parking on 14.36 acres in the M2/M3 zoning district. LG&E South Service Center. 
19-CAT2-0030, 4664 Jennings Lane, a Category 2B development application for the development of a one-story office building with parking lot on 14.36 acres in the M2 and M3 zoning districts. LG&E South Operations - Engineering Center. 

19-WAIVER-0016, 4500 Champions Trace Lane, a sidewalk waiver request for requirement along Champions Trace Lane. 

19-WAIVER-0095, 1008 E. Oak Street, a waiver of the required landscape buffer area along the east property line for Hinterhof Micro-Rosteri. 

19-WAIVER-0112, 2814 Newburg Road, a waiver for the sidewalk requirement along Newburg Road. 
19-WAIVER-0113, 2814 Newburg Road, a waiver to allow detached houses to abut a private street.  

Short term rental cases

18CUP1130 for 3762 Illinois Avenue, a conditional use permit for a Short Term Rental of a non-primary residence in the R-5 zoning district.

18CUP1176, 1125 Fischer Avenue, a conditional use permit for a non-primary residence short term rental in the R6 zoning district.

19CUP1017, 2606 Pindell Avenue, a conditional use permit for a short term rental on 0.1197 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

19CUP1042, 922 Keswick Boulevard, a conditional use permit for short term rental at a nonprimary residence on .11 acres in the R5 zoning district.

19-CUPPA-0241, 1622 Whippoorwill Road, a conditional use permit for a short term rental at a non-primary residence on 0.1334 acres in the R5 zoning district.

To check on Planning and Design Services cases, click here.

 Locate legal Short Term Rentals with new interactive map

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

Know the signs of human trafficking - you could save a life

Do you know the indicators of human trafficking? You could save a life. Click here for details.  If you believe you may have information about a potential trafficking situation, please contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 or BeFree. Hint: Keep this hotline number in your cell phone.

Report litterers

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 their car window. Click here to report.

Get your reduced cost recycling cart before funds are depleted

Councilman Mulvihill is committed to providing carts to District 10 residents at a reduced cost. These recycle carts will be available on a first come first served basis until the funds are depleted.  The photos at left show the sizes: 64 gallon on the left, 95 gallon on the right.

The carts normally cost $53, but Councilman Mulvihill has made them available for residents of District 10 for a reduced cost of $28. Please call 574-1110 or email us for the form. This offer is available to urban service district residents.

What's the difference between a Recycling Bin and Recycling Cart? The District 10 Discount Cart Program only includes Recycling Carts in 65- or 95-gallon size. Please call 574-1110 or email us for the form. This offer is available to urban service district residents. Households with city waste services receive one garbage cart (all black) and one 18-gallon orange recycling bin for free. If you have just moved into a residence and either of these are missing, contact Metro311 online or call 311 or 574-5000 to make a request.

RecycleCoach app helps Louisville Metro customers with collection reminders, recycling information and more

Receive notifications about garbage, recycling, bulk waste, and yard waste collection services through the RecycleCoach app.  The app also has a “what goes where” feature to allow a person to input a certain item to get information on disposal or recycling. Download from the App Store or Google Play.

Streetlight out? Report it. 

Please report non-working streetlights to LG&E online here.

Property maintenance is the responsibility of the resident, from the middle of the street to the middle of the alley

In Louisville Metro, it is the responsibility of the person living in a home to keep the front and rear of the property clean. This area extends from the middle of the street out front to the middle of any alleyways to the rear or side of the property. This applies to litter as well as plants and trees that could impede the alleyway or street. Inspections, Permits and Licenses (IPL) could cite and possibly impose a fine if you've got a lot of debris and plant overgrowth. Thank you for adhering to the local property maintenance codes and keeping a clean neighborhood. 

Crisis line for veterans and their families

Some offices and VA hospitals offer a "Health Promotion Disease Prevention Program" that includes treatment methods including acupuncture, tai chi, and meditation instead of opioids, and they work with the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, Press 1) to provide support and treatment for PTSD and depression, the leading cause of suicide for veterans.

Additional references for VA material and assistance or 1-877-WAR-VETS. Lifestyle changes for better health, or sexual trauma.

From the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 1-800-273-TALK or go to https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ to live chat.

"Embrace the Journey" website for parents of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents

For LGBTQ+ children and adolescents,a parent’s support makes all the difference. The Embrace the Journey website is designed to educate the parents of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents about how to give children the emotional support they need.

Question or problem? Contact Metro311 one of several ways

If you wish to make a Metro311 request, please make a report online or use the mobile app. You'll receive a service request number that will help the District 10 office assist you. You can report online here, or download the free mobile 311 app from your app store. Or tweet @LouMetro311 or call 574-5000.  You can now look to see if an issue you want to report has already been reported. And you'll get notification of your issue along the way. Visit Metro311 to learn more:  Louisville Metro Government's Metro Business Portal, where you apply for permits, licensing and applications with Louisville Metro, is here.

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 line leaks For further information contact Jackie Wilson-Rudy at 574-5850.

Would you like to serve on one of Louisville Metro's Boards or Commissions? 

Interested in volunteering for one of Louisville Metro Government's Boards and Commissions? Serving on a board or commission, you will have a chance to improve the quality of life in our community. There are approximately 100 boards and commissions with many areas of interest, including business and economic development, land planning, parks and recreation, public health and public safety. To learn more about board applications, please click here.

If you know of a community event you'd like to be considered for inclusion on the District 10 E-News, let us know. Click here to email our office. 

You are receiving this email because you have signed up for the E-News or have contacted my office for assistance. If you would like to be removed from this communication please email Sara Feltner with "REMOVE" in the subject line.