Mayor announces Hillard Heintze firm to perform top-to-bottom review of LMPD

Mayor Greg Fischer today announced that the Chicago-based consulting firm Hillard Heintze, a Jensen Hughes company, will perform the comprehensive, top-to-bottom review of the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) that he called for last month. “It is clear we need to reimagine what policing looks like, and that includes taking deep, hard looks to see what’s working well, and what we can be doing better,” Mayor Fischer said. “Our next permanent police chief will be responsible for ensuring that LMPD’s policies, procedures and structure align with the goals and values of our entire city, and this review will be a vital tool in ensuring a complete understanding of the department’s strengths and weaknesses.” Since its inception in 2004, Hillard Heintze has helped dozens of public safety and law enforcement agencies at all levels of government, and is among the nation’s leading public safety consulting firms. Among its high-profile work, Hillard Heintze helped drive the critical advancements in policing called for in the Final Report of the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing: Transparency, Accountability, and Better Community Engagement. The U.S. Department of Justice chose Hillard Heintze as the sole provider for the Community Oriented Policing Services Office Collaborative Reform Initiative for Technical Assistance — the largest U.S. program to advance police transformations and reform in cities and universities across the U.S. “We’re very pleased to be asked to do this critical work,” said Ken Bouche, Hillard Heintze Chief Operating Officer. “Sound policies and procedures lie at the heart of how LMPD personnel operate every day – from engaging directly with the community, to training and supporting officers and addressing internal affairs with integrity and fairness. It’s vital that these be evaluated from an independent and objective perspective, informed by best practices in use by other departments with comparable challenges. We are very confident that the findings and recommendations emerging from this review, upon implementation, will help the Mayor, the permanent chief and every member of the Department improve services delivered to all members of the city’s communities.” In Louisville, the review will focus on a number of areas, which may include training in use of force and bias-free policing, as well as accountability, supervision, community engagement, and other topics. The review will also identify any obstacles in implementing changes to improve those areas.  Hillard Heintze was selected in collaboration with Metro Council President David James. “I feel confident that we have selected the best firm to carry out this review of LMPD,” President James said. “While we know that due to poor past leadership, LMPD has many problems that need correcting, this study can be used as a blueprint for the yet to be selected new chief to follow.” Hillard Heintze will be active in gathering community feedback to ensure substantial interactions with community members, interest groups, prosecutors and defense attorneys and LMPD personnel. “Public safety is a community production, and it’s key that the opinions and needs of the community, police and partners are understood as we move forward,” the Mayor said. Chief survey extended through July 17         Also today, Mayor Fischer announced that the community survey for residents and the internal survey for LMPD personnel to share their priorities for the next permanent police chief will be extended through Friday, July 17. Nearly 9,000 people have completed the online version of the survey, which can be accessed at https://arcg.is/18fTnS. Residents can also call 528-3543 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday to participate. They will be assisted by call-takers who will input their answers to questions on a community survey, which has been available online since early this month. The survey asks: What are the three most important qualities or skills you would like to see in the next police chief; What are suggestions for improving police services; and What a new chief must accomplish immediately, and over the next two to three years. “I’m encouraging everyone in our community, especially those who feel strongly about police policies, to participate in the process to hire a new permanent chief by calling or completing the online survey,” Mayor Fischer said.   The city has contracted with the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), a non-profit Washington, D.C.-based police research organization, to conduct the search.  In addition to the survey, PERF and Metro Government are holding listening sessions over the next month with various focus groups across the community. PERF will review and analyze all the information residents provide, to help identify the qualities and characteristics needed for the city’s permanent police chief. They will use that information to conduct a national search and create a list of qualified candidates. Louisville Metro Police officers are also being surveyed. Since its founding in 1976, PERF has identified best practices on fundamental issues, such as reducing police use of force; developing community policing and problem-oriented policing; using technologies to deliver police services to the community; and evaluating crime reduction strategies.

Louisville Metro now accepting applications for small business grants, eviction prevention assistance

More than $42 million in federal CARES dollars will fund new programs Louisville Metro Government began accepting and processing applications for both the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grants and Eviction Prevention COVID-19 Relief Fund on Wednesday, July 1. Funding for the two new programs comes from federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, & Economic Security) Act money, with each program receiving $21.2 million toward their mission. Small business assistance The Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grants program, administered by Louisville Forward, will provide up to $50,000 to small businesses with the goal of helping prevent business closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. At least 50 percent of the program funds would be dedicated to businesses in in low-to-moderate income census tracts.          Eligible expenses include payroll, utilities, mortgage/rent, fixed costs, such as interest on debt service and insurance, and technology to allow for online sales. Funds will be disbursed in three payments and recipients will be required to report proof of grant expenditures. To find out more information and apply, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/louisville-forward/small-business-covid-19-relief-grants. Eviction prevention Eviction Prevention COVID-19 Relief Fund aims to aid low-to-moderate income households that are delinquent on rent payments as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program will pay for up to three months of rent for households facing COVID-related delinquencies. Individual households may begin applying for rental assistance through the Office of Resilience and Community Services immediately. To be eligible, households must earn at or below 60 percent of the area median income ($45,840 annually for a family of four) and have had their income impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Households can begin the application process here: https://louisvilleky.wufoo.com/forms/one-louisville-fund-online-application. Beginning July 1, landlords may apply for assistance on behalf of their tenants to the Office of Housing. Funding will be prioritized for affordable housing units (households at or below 60 percent of area median income) or properties with more than 50 percent of their units in the Housing Choice Vouchers Program. To find out more information and apply, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/develop-louisville/eviction-prevention.

Klondike Lane paving again on schedule for next week

Louisville Metro Public Works paving projects scheduled for the week of July 6 include Klondike Lane from Six Mile Lane to Hikes Lane. The schedule is subject to change due to weather and/or operational factors.

JCPS updates regarding opening, summer programs

From Jefferson County Public Schools: We are continuing preparations for the start of the 2020-21 school year. While no decisions have been made about exactly what the start of the school year will look like, we are considering a proposal to push back the start of the school year. The JCPS Calendar Committee is looking at moving the start date of school from August 12 to August 26. This would allow more time to monitor the conditions in our community and provide more professional development and training for teachers. The Jefferson County Board of Education has to approve any changes to the calendar. The next regularly scheduled school board meeting is July 21. We are still reviewing several scenarios for the start of the school year including in-person instruction, a virtual option or both. We plan to have a final decision by the July 21 board meeting. In the meantime, we want to let you know about our planning process.  Preparing for the Start of the 2020-2021 School Year provides information for families about steps we are taking and considerations that are being made as we plan for August. You will also find the latest Healthy at School guidance released by the Kentucky Department of Education on our webpage.  Also, you will have an opportunity to share your thoughts on the upcoming school year with Superintendent Dr. Marty Pollio and other top JCPS officials at a live, virtual community forum on Monday, July 13. More details will be coming soon.  Here are a few other updates: New Summer League Learning opportunities: Two more online summer programs begin next week. Literacy and Fencing along with Numeracy & start Monday, July 6. These video programs join five others from our Diversity, Equity and Poverty Division which are already underway - Literacy &: Chess; Yoga; Hip Hop and Karate as well as Music Production with AMPED. Go to the main Summer League web page for more information   SummerWorks jobs available: If your child is looking for a job this summer, check out SummerWorks. Hundreds of jobs guaranteeing at least 30 hours per week paying $10 per hour are available at local non-profits and agencies, including JCPS, for young adults ages 16-21. You can find more information at www.summerworks.org/sign-up     We hope your child is staying engaged in learning activities this summer and we look forward to seeing them in August. As for parents and guardians, we will continue to keep you informed of JCPS’ plans for the upcoming school year.

One Louisville:  COVID-19 Response Fund

Reminder: eligible households seeking assistance may apply for the One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund 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.

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.

Expanded COVID-19 contact tracing continues

COVID-19 contact tracing continues by 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).

Contact tracers 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.
• Ask about people they were in close contact with.
  
• 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.
• When contact tracers call individuals, “LOU-HEALTH” will display on caller ID.

Contact tracers will NOT:

• Ask you for your social security number or any credit card information.
• Give your close contacts your name unless you give them permission to do so.
  
• Share your information with law enforcement or immigration officials.
  

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.

LGBT-certified businesses now recognized in Metro Government procurement process 

The Louisville Metro Human Relations Commission (HRC) and Mayor Greg Fischer on Wednesday announced that LGBT-certified businesses are now officially recognized as part of the Louisville Metro Government procurement process for goods and services.

Businesses owned by LGBT people and certified by a national or certifying organization, such as the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce or the Louisville Civitas chamber of commerce, can apply with the Human Relations Commission for a no-cost reciprocal certification.  

Once a vendor has completed the reciprocal certification process the company will be listed in the HRC public directory of businesses used by Louisville Metro Government agencies, partners and the public to acquire goods and services. The businesses will be offered online system training and be listed to receive invitations to networking events and workshops.

The change in the city’s procurement process comes after the Metro Council approved, and Mayor Fischer signed, an ordinance amending and modernizing definitions used in the city’s procurement policies. 

“Louisville Metro Government is committed to fairness and equity, and this important update to our city procurement process means more businesses owned by our LGBT community will have more opportunities to do business with the city,” the Mayor said.

Noting that Louisville has scored a perfect 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equity Scorecard for five consecutive years, the Mayor added: “We must — and we will — continue our drive to build equity so that Louisville can truly be a city where every person has the chance to reach their full potential.”  

LGBT business owners can submit reciprocal certification applications at https://louisvilleky.diversitycompliance.com. 

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.

Juneteenth Jubilee video series

As we celebrate Juneteenth, a day of freedom commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, we invite you to join our 2020 Juneteenth Jubilee! We encourage you to watch the second of seven episodes of our educational video series by following this link. A new episode of the seven part series will premier each Friday through July 31st. It will be broadcast at noon on Wave Country with Dawne Gee on WAVE 3.

Louisville Water Foundation's Drops of Kindness helps resolve unpaid bills

The Louisville Water Foundation works with community agencies to help customers keep their water turned on. In stressful times, Drops of Kindness offers customers help with unpaid bills. Whether you’re a resident or business owner, Drops of Kindness offers a customized approach to help customers resolve unpaid bills and reduce future financial obligations. For details, go to https://www.louisvillewater.com/DropsofKindness.

Waste Reduction Center is open

The Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue has reopened, and 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 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.

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

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.

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

Zoo news

General admission tickets are now available. The Louisville Zoo is excited to announce that general admission tickets are now on sale following a temporary closure in response to COVID-19. General admission dates begin July 4 and tickets are currently available through July 31. “We are excited to be able to steadily and safely expand our capacity and now reopen to our general admission guests,” said Louisville Zoo Director John Walczak. “Our priority continues to be the safety and health of our guests, staff and animals. Guests will notice staff wearing masks, disinfecting high-touch areas and sharing reminders on social distancing. Thank you in advance for your patience while we work to navigate these uncharted waters.” Everyone, including members, must reserve or purchase tickets online at louisvillezoo.org/tickets. No one will be admitted without a ticket. Guests will be asked to choose their date and hour of arrival. Tickets are valid for the reserved date and time only, however guests may enjoy the Zoo at their leisure. The special ticketing policy, including frequently asked questions, is available at louisvillezoo.org/together. The Zoo remains in communication with the Mayor’s office and the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness on our COVID-19 response and has closely worked with them on the reopening and ensuring we are following the latest safety guidelines.  Staff members have mandatory temperature checks as they arrive to work. All staff in public areas wear masks. The Zoo strongly encourages guests to wear masks as well. Zoo keepers continue to wear masks around vulnerable animal populations. The Zoo will be cleaning and disinfecting high-touch areas frequently. All of the restrooms will be open with step-and-pull entry or touchless access. Zoo staff and markers will be present to help encourage social distancing. Guests will be asked to follow a one-way route through the Zoo. Indoor exhibit areas will not be open during the initial reopening phase. In the coming months, the Zoo hopes to reopen indoor exhibits, rides and playgrounds. There will be limited menus available at select outdoor food kiosks throughout the Zoo, as well as water bottle refill stations. Outdoor picnic areas have been arranged to ensure social distancing.

A Month-Long Celebration of the Earth...in July

Due to a temporary closure in response to COVID-19, the Louisville Zoo will celebrate its annual bash for the Earth — Party for the Planet: A Month-Long Celebration of the Earth — in July. Usually held in April, this month-long celebration will include $5.25 admission for Fun Day Mondays on July 6, 13, 20 and 27 as well as $8.25 admission on July 26 when the Zoo will celebrate its Earth Day Festival. The Zoo’s social channels will also feature conservation-minded videos on each Saturday in July from some of the Zoo’s eco-partners. Precautions listed above, including required advance ticket purchases online, are in effect for Party for the Planet. The student winners of the Trashformation Recycled Art Contest will also be announced July 26 on the Zoo’s social channels and on the Zoo’s website at LouisvilleZoo.org/Trashformation.

Friends of the Louisville Zoo announces cancellation of Brew at the Zoo and Wine, Too! 

The Friends of the Louisville Zoo, together with Zoo leadership, has decided to cancel Brew at the Zoo and Wine, Too! scheduled for August 29. The event annually brings more than 4,000 event participants and volunteers to the Zoo and with lots of close social interaction between guests. Brew at the Zoo and Wine Too! would have been in its 17th year in 2020. Coordinated and hosted by the Friends of the Louisville Zoo, the event is one of the largest annual fundraising events for the Zoo. Proceeds benefit the Louisville Zoo’s mission to “better the bond between people and the planet” through award-winning exhibits, science and conservation education programs, and animal encounters. “Protecting the health of Zoo guests, volunteers, staff and the animals is the top priority. Due to the nature of the event, it was determined that it would be best to cancel for this year,” said Friends of the Louisville Zoo Board President, Nancy Loucks. “We regret that our 4,000+ event guests will not gather this year to raise funds to support a great community resource, however, we are looking forward to 2021! We thank event attendees, volunteers, vendors and sponsors for their loyal support of Brew at the Zoo & Wine, Too! over the years and look forward to seeing everyone back next year!”

Zoo now offering Community Access Membership

The Zoo now offers a Community Access Membership which offers a deep discount for families participating in the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP).

“We want to emphasize Zoo accessibility for everyone. This is something we’ve been working on for a while now and the launch just happens to coincide with a time when there are many out there in need,” said Louisville Zoo Director John Walczak. “We are happy to be able to offer this membership and provide more access to people experiencing challenges.” 

SNAP cards from any state will be accepted for this new membership. Additional details can be found at LouisvilleZoo.org/cca  

Louisville Nature Center

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.

Metro Animal Services on pets and fireworks

Fireworks and pets don’t mix! While many people look forward to the traditional celebratory sights and sounds of fireworks in the sky, it can be a scary experience for pets. The loud noises associated with the Fourth of July often result in frightened pets running off, and a spike in stray animals entering local animal shelters. The best way to keep your pets safe this Fourth of July weekend is to leave them at home while you enjoy the festivities. Follow these safety tips and more info about keeping pets calm during fireworks, click here (https://louisvilleky.gov/news/lmas-urges-pet-owners-take-extra-precautions-during-july-4th-celebrations-0) .

If your pet does become frightened by fireworks and runs off, make sure you file an online (https://louisvilleky.gov/government/animal-services/services/report-or-search-lost-and-found-animals) missing pet report with Louisville Metro Animal Services (LMAS). You’ll also want to visit the LMAS shelter, 3528 Newburg Road, to search our kennels for your furry friend. Business hours are from noon to 6 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Contact LMAS lost and found services by email or at 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.

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

July 11, 12, 18 and 19 - Lifeguard training

Enjoy virtual Shakespeare in the Park online this summer

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:  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.