JCPS will begin classes August 25 with NTI from home

Jefferson County Public Schools will start classes August 25. Superintendent Marty Pollio announced his plan to have the district's 98,000 students begin the new school year from their homes with nontraditional instruction, or NTI. He pledged to vastly improve remote instruction over its hurried rollout last spring.The district will reevaluate after six weeks, he said. "There are no good options with COVID-19." More information is at the JCPS website.

Cyril Allgeier Community Center now providing free Summer Blessing meal packs for youth

The Cyril Allgeier Community Center is distributing Summer Blessing meals, free to anyone 18 years old and younger. The child does not have to be with a parent to receive the meal.

Come to the center at 4101 Cadillac Court Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., ask the staff for a meal and you will receive it, no questions asked.

Call the center at 456-3261 if you have questions.

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 is now accepting and processing applications for both the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grants and Eviction Prevention COVID-19 Relief Fund. 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. 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.

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

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) are employing contact tracers to talk to people who have tested positive for COVID-19. 

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.
  

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.

Jefferson Community and Technical College offering Open Doors Diversity Grants

Free electric fans for older adults and disabled individuals

Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, community organizations, and residents, hundreds of electric fans have been collected to provide heat relief for older adults and people with disabilities.  The Fan Fair giveaway qualifications and guidelines are as follows: Person 60 years of age or older Or documentation verified by a physician of a disability Resident of Jefferson, Oldham, Henry, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble or Bullitt Counties Proof of address and age ​One fan per household Household must not have functional central air conditioning Qualified individuals may call one of the sites below for more information and instruction on how to apply to receive a fan. Appointments are required in advance due to most sites remaining temporarily closed for walk-in clients in accordance with the CDC and Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness guidelines. The locations include: First Neighborhood Place (40219); 502-313-4700 Cane Run Neighborhood Place (40216); 502-485-6810 South Central Neighborhood Place (40215); 502-485-7130 Ujima Neighborhood Place (40211); 502-485-6710 Northwest Neighborhood Place (40212); 502-574-5434 South Jefferson Neighborhood Place (40258); 502-363-1424 (Fairdale); 485-7310 (Valley site) Bridges of Hope Neighborhood Place (40210); 502-634-6050 KIPDA (40299); 502-266-5571 Tri-County Community Action Agency (Henry County 502-845-7808; Oldham County 502-222-1349; and Trimble County 502- 255-7514) Multi-Purpose Community Action Agency (Shelby County 502-633-2218; Spencer County 502-477-8296; Bullitt County 502-543-3455) Fan Fair is an annual event sponsored by KIPDA Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living and Louisville Metro Office for Aging & Disabled Citizens (OADC). These organizations first joined forces in 2016 to implement a Fan Fair and Community Resource event in response to the numerous calls they received requesting heat relief. The Fan Fair/fan giveaway event is now in its fifth year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, alternate plans have been made for the 2020 Fan Fair to distribute fans at multiple sites in place of a larger, community gathering. "The continued interest we’ve received again this year is evidence of the compassion and desire to take care of one’s neighbor that truly exists in the Louisville community,” stated Sarah Teeters, Coordinator for OADC, part of the Office of Resilience and Community Services. “We would especially like to thank AARP, National Active and Retired Federal Employees, Humana, KIPDA, Louisville Metro Resilience and Community Services, and our anonymous resident donors who continue to make this program a success.” “This year even with all the challenges that we are facing, the community stepped up and donated fans without us asking, people started calling, without us publicizing it.  That is the definition of a working resource, a resource that even when the actual event had to be cancelled, the community helped to push the planning forward.  I am so proud that our idea, has turned into something this great.   A fan can make a difference!” stated Jennifer Craig, Aging and Disability Resource Specialist for KIPDA.  Monetary donations are still accepted and appreciated to purchase fans.  Checks can be made payable to KIPDA, Attn:  Fan Fair, mailed to 11520 Commonwealth Drive, Louisville, KY 40299 and postmarked by July 30. Fan supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. For more information about the Fan Fair event, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services/office-aging-disabled-citizens or https://www.kipda.org/.

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! Episode 4  “News” is now available.  Watch & link to it here: https://ourwaterfront.org/annual-events/juneteenth-jubiliee/ or here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dh7gl-5pGSc&t=3s A new episode of the seven part series will premier each Friday through July 31. 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.

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.

Metro Animal Services - Safety tips and kittens

Extreme heat can be deadly to our pets, so it’s important to take steps to protect your when temperatures soar. LMAS recommends pet owners follow these tips to keep their four-legged friends safe during hot weather.

Stay inside and limit outdoor time - It’s best to keep pets inside with the air conditioner set to a comfortable temperature. Outdoor time should be limited to prevent heat-related injuries.

Shade and water - If a pet must be kept outdoors, make sure they have access to fresh, cool water and a shady area away from the sun.

Do not leave pets alone in a parked vehicle - The temperature inside a vehicle can reach triple digits in a matter of minutes, resulting in heatstroke or death.

Avoid walking dogs in hot weather - Do not walk your dog during the hottest part of the day. Take shorter walks in the mornings or evenings to prevent a pet from overheating.

Know the signs of heatstroke - Heatstroke can be fatal so it’s important to know the symptoms in pets. Signs include heavy panting or difficulty breathing, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, lethargy, drooling, vomiting, excessive thirst and seizures. Get to a veterinarian immediately if a pet displays these symptoms.

To view more hot weather safety tips for pets, click here.

Pet of the Week: Kitten Adoptions There’s no meows about it… LMAS has adoptable kittens ready for forever homes! Stop by Animal House Adoption, 3516 Newburg Road, to meet our adorable new arrivals. Adopt any kitten by making a $100 donation to the Pay It Forward Program, so adult cat adoptions will always be free for approved adopters. Spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations and a microchip are included! Animal House is open daily from noon to 6 p.m., and Fridays until 7 p.m. For more info, call 473-PETS. For more info about LMAS and Pay It Forward Free Adoptions, click here.

District 10 events

Zoo news

Louisville Zoo extends Wild Lights Asian Lantern Festival

The popular Wild Lights: Asian Lantern Festival Presented by T-Mobile has been extended and will be open Thursday through Sunday nights from July 9 to August 28. Wild Lights is one of the largest Chinese lantern festivals in the nation and our community’s first-ever outdoor Chinese lantern festival.  The event was previously postponed due to COVID-19. “Wild Lights was very popular with our guests for the two weeks of the festival that we were able to enjoy before we closed for COVID-19 measures,” said Louisville Zoo Director John Walczak. “Every day we have been asked about Wild Lights and we are delighted to be able to work with Tianyu Arts & Culture to extend the festival and allow more of our community the chance to see these beautifully illuminated lanterns and learn more about Asian culture.”   Tickets are available at WildLightsLouisville.com. All guests must purchase tickets online in advance. Tickets will not be available at the Zoo due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Guests will select tickets for the day and time they would like to enter to help manage attendance capacities. Entry will begin at 7:30 p.m. and end at 9:30 p.m. The Zoo will close at 11 p.m. The Zoo will honor all Wild Lights tickets that were purchased before the event’s COVID-19 postponement. Those with previous tickets will be able to attend on any date of the festival by showing their tickets at the ticket windows. The 1.4-mile event route is wheelchair and stroller friendly on a paved path. The path goes one direction and guests may enjoy one loop through the route to see the beautiful lanterns. A limited menu will be available at select food stands. More details and frequently asked questions are available at Wildlightslouisville.com. About Wild Lights More than 2,000 intricate lanterns displayed in 65 larger-than-life scenes will illuminate the Zoo with over 50,000 LED bulbs. A 1.4-mile trail alongside favorites like a 131-foot-long dragon, a color changing panda tree, a walk-­through shark tunnel, fairy forest and more. Interactive displays will allow guests to leap from lily pad to lily pad and pose with our glowing wings.

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. 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. 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.

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  

August 29 - 17th Annual Ken-Ducky Derby for Harbor House of Louisville

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.

Louisville Metro News

Kentucky Science Center is reopening!

From the Kentucky Science Center: The COVID-19 Pandemic is hard on everyone, and we thank you for your patience while we finalized our plans to keep our staff, members, and guests safe. This weekend and for the remaining Saturdays and Sundays in July, we invite everyone to join us. In addition to our family favorites like Science in Play and the Rocket Table, made possible by Jeff and Peggy Merman of Automatic Controls Company, the second phase of our newest exhibit, Uniquely Human debuted last week. Uniquely Human: Feelings guides visitors through understanding the science of physical and emotional response. Learn why fear increases your heart rate, and step into the mood room to find your zen. This new exhibit is included in the general admission ticket price. We will be open to members and the general public only on Saturday and Sunday (9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.), to allow Summer Camp to use the building Monday through Friday. We hope to expand on this in the near future. Due to limited capacity, all guests will be required to make reservations in advance. We are also excited to premiere Turtle Odyssey in our four-story Digital Theater. Tickets should be purchased in advance and are $6 for members and $8 for non-members. Kentucky Science Center will require masks upon entry for guests six years of age and older. While in the building, please stay with your travel group and maintain social distancing guidelines of six feet spacing from other groups. If you are unable to wear a mask due to medical reasons, please maintain social distancing of six feet from all guests. Before your visit, please read our full COVID-19 procedures and pre-screening questions. Parking: The KSC Parking Lot is open to the public. Due to MSD construction, a temporary entrance is in place on Washington Street between 7th and 8th Street. Please exit via the normal 8th Street exit. You will then have to proceed down Washington to 9th Street. 8th Street is completely closed to vehicle traffic. We look forward to seeing you soon and Doing Science together!

Applications being accepted now for LIHEAP Summer Cooling Program

Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services joins with Community Action Agencies across the state to begin accepting applications for the new Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Summer Cooling Program. Designed to help offset the cost of higher electric bills due to rising temperatures, the program is the network’s latest resource to help families during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Applications will be accepted now through October 31, 2020, or until funds are depleted.

The LIHEAP Summer Cooling Program is separated into two components, Subsidy and Crisis, to assist with electric cost. Eligible households can apply for one or both components and participation in prior LIHEAP programs will not affect a household’s eligibility. Households must meet eligibility requirements, with a household income at or below 60% of the Kentucky median income.

The Subsidy component provides households one-time benefit ranging from $50 to $200 depending on income levels and housing category. The Crisis component is available to eligible households who demonstrate a home energy crisis situation. Crisis benefits will cover the minimum needed to alleviate the crisis not to exceed $600. Households can reapply each time they experience a crisis situation until they reached their maximum benefit.

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

Jefferson County residents wishing to apply must schedule an appointment utilizing the automated appointment system. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling 502-991-8391 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.

Applicants will be assessed for both the Subsidy and Crisis programs and may receive benefits from both programs if eligible.

LIHEAP required documentation, along with the downloadable LIHEAP Family Profile form and the Remote Processing form, should be dropped off at the LIHEAP site you select, on the day of your appointment.

A copy of the required documentation is advisable but if original information is mailed, the LIHEAP staff will make arrangements to return to the recipient.  

Applicants will then be contacted by LIHEAP staff within 72 hours (3 business days) of the appointment time.

For more descriptions about the drop box locations, income eligibility and other instructions, call the automated LIHEAP information line at 991-8391 or visit www.louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.  Residents may also visit https://louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP for more details.

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

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 18 and 19 - Lifeguard training

Through 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

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:  7/20, 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

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.

ABC ad run for 796 Eastern Parkway (District 15)

An advertisement for a Quota Retail Liquor Package, NQ Retail Malt Beverage Package, Sampling, and 2 a.m. Extended Hours license ran in the Louisville Courier-Journal June 19 for Eastern Parkway Liquors, 796 Eastern Parkway.

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 NE33, Frankfort, KY, 40601, within 30 days of the date of this legal publication.

This property is in District 15 but Councilman Mulvihill is sending a letter of protest as it borders District 10 and is in an area already saturated with ABC licensed businesses. Walgreens, Liquor World and Liquor Island are within a few blocks, as well as several restaurants serving liquor by the drink.

July 28 - Neighborhood meeting regarding 232 Carey Avenue (in D2 but on the D10 border)

July 28 - Neighborhood meeting regarding a Conditional Use Permit for athletic facilities at 1200 Hodel Road

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.