Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 08/07/2020 04:37 PM EDT
COUNCILWOMAN DR. BARBARA SHANKLIN
(502) 574-1102 / 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202
Dr. Barbara Shanklin District 2 Councilwoman 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202 (502) 574-1102 Barbara.Shanklin@louisvilleky.gov
Caleb Howard Legislative Assistant (502) 574-2787 Caleb.Howard@louisvilleky.gov
Newburg Library
***August Meeting Cancelled Due to COVID-19 outbreak***
On the third Tuesday of each month, a Community Meeting is held to give residents an opportunity to be informed, discuss ideas and share. Be part of the change we want to see for our community. Join us at 6:00PMwhen we meet with LMPD, and 6:30PM to share with Councilwoman Dr. Barbara Shanklin.
Louisville Metro Police Department 6th Division Questions? Contact Us
STAY CONNECTED:
CLICK HERE OR CALL 574-LMPD (5673) TO SUBMIT A CRIME TIP
More and more states are expanding vote by mail options during the pandemic, with West Virginia recently announcing that the coronavirus can be used as a reason to vote absentee in the November 3 general election. Kentucky is now one of only eight states requiring some other excuse to vote by mail this November.
Kentucky may still make changes in our election laws, but one thing we know for sure is that only registered voters will be allowed to vote. Registration is open and can be done online. Register, change your registration, or just check to make sure you are registered at GoVoteKY.com. The deadline to register online to vote in the 2020 General Election is October 5, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. local time.
Official Team Kentucky sources for information concerning COVID-19
COVID-19 Hotline (800) 722-5725
The COVID-19 hotline is a service operated by the healthcare professionals at the KY Poison Control Center who can provide advice and answer questions. Please be patient as we are handling a high volume of calls and want to give everyone the time they deserve. For general information, please review the website prior to calling the hotline. Guidance is being added as it becomes available.
Click here for to visit the official Team Kentucky source for information concerning COVID-19 (updated daily).
For general inquires, email KYcovid19@ky.gov. Please be patient as we handle a high volume of emails.
COVID-19: Louisville Information
Louisville Metro has a website with updated information about COVID-19, including information from Mayor Greg Fischer’s briefings about City services. You can access it here.
*PCR is test for COVID, Serology is antibodies test
** Based on a 7-day rolling average. Timing of reporting overall lab results versus positives, repeat testing of individuals, duplicate entries and lack of reporting by some labs, make the data imprecise and more appropriate or useful for trending. Note: Data includes cases of COVID-19 reported to KDPH.
Since the first case of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was confirmed in Kentucky, Governor Beshear taken the following actions:
7/27/2020:Announced the closing of bars for two weeks, effective, Tuesday, July 28.
Announced that restaurants will be limited to 25% of pre-pandemic capacity indoors; outdoor accommodations remain limited only by the ability to provide proper social distancing.
Recommended that public and private schools avoid offering in-person instruction until the third week of August.
7/20/2020: The Kentucky Department of Public Health issued a new travel advisory that recommends a 14-day self-quarantine for travelers who went to any of eight states – Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Nevada, South Carolina and Texas – that were reporting a positive coronavirus testing rate equal to or greater than 15%. The advisory also included Mississippi, which was quickly approaching a positive testing rate of 15%, and the U.S. Territory of Puerto Rico.
Gov. Beshear announced that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services has issued a new order that pulls back on guidance covering social, non-commercial mass gatherings. On June 29, the original guidance was eased to allow for gatherings of 50 or fewer people. Today’s order returns the guidance to allow only for such gatherings of 10 or fewer people. The guidance, which does not apply to weddings, restaurants, retail or other public venues, went into effect on July 20 at 5 p.m.
Governor Beshear Announces Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Awarded More Than $6.4 Million in CARES Act Funding
Money will help public transit agencies hard-hit by COVID-19 pandemic
FRANKFORT, KY. (Aug. 5, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has been awarded more than $6.4 million to help public transit agencies continue operating during the deadly novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
The funding, part of the CARES Act, is from the Federal Transit Administration. KYTC will distribute it in grants to 16 public transit agencies serving 79 counties across Kentucky. It will cover an array of operating costs including security and disinfection equipment, electronic ticketing, office equipment and supplies and transit vehicles, among others.
“Thousands of our fellow Kentuckians depend on public transit for daily transportation. It’s how they get to doctor appointments, jobs, the grocery and other essential locations,” Gov. Beshear said. “These transit agencies and their employees are on the front line in our battle against COVID-19.”
Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray noted that public transit agencies have lost ridership because of the pandemic and have experienced much employee time lost to illness. “These agencies are struggling financially, and this funding is sorely needed to keep services running and our people protected,” Secretary Gray said.
CARES – Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security – was enacted by Congress to stimulate the economy while much of the nation’s workforce stays healthy at home.
The newly announced grant is for $6,413,177. It follows an initial round of CARES Act transit funding totaling $22.9 million in May. There is a wide range of eligible operational expenses, including purchases of fuel and procurement of personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes, disinfection services and protective barriers between drivers and passengers.
A list of the transit agencies, amounts of potential awards and areas of service is available here.
More information about Gov. Beshear's actions and Kentucky's response to the COVID-19 pandemic can be found at the main Kentucky COVID-19 webpage.
Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville
Mayor urges those in need to apply for more than $21 million in federal eviction prevention assistance
Residents seeking guidance referred to StopMyEviction.org, a one-stop website for eviction prevention resources and services
LOUISVILLE (August 7, 2020) – Mayor Greg Fischer today urged Louisvillians who need help paying rent due to the impact of COVID-19 to apply for assistance through Louisville Metro Government efforts being funded by $21.2 million from the federal CARES Act.
The Eviction Prevention COVID-19 Relief Fund launched in July is designed to aid low-to-moderate income households that are delinquent on rent payments as a result of the pandemic. The program will cover up to three months of rent for households facing COVID-related delinquencies.
"Families and individuals who were already rent burdened, or living paycheck-to-paycheck, are particularly vulnerable to the sudden loss in income that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic,” the Mayor said. “This eviction prevention assistance will provide much needed relief to help those who need it most to keep a roof over their heads.”
The city’s Office of Resilience and Community Services is administering this assistance for eligible households earning at or below 80 percent of the area median income ($61,100 annually for a family of four). Appointments are required in advance to apply utilizing an automated appointment system described below.
Eviction Prevention Assistance for households
How to apply:
Jefferson County residents who meet the below eligibility requirements can call an automated scheduler at 502-977-6636 or visit online at EvictionPRevention.itfrontdesk.com.
Eligibility:
Jefferson County residency
Must have a pending court eviction, or a past due notice from landlord
Household income up to 80% AMI (Area Median Income) within the previous 30 days (see more details here.)
The assistance is necessary to avoid eviction
Reasonable prospect that the household will be able to resume payments within a reasonable period of time
Households facing COVID-related delinquencies
The Mayor also noted that landlords of federal, state or locally subsidized multi-family or single family units (i.e., LIHTC, CDBG, HOME Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund, Louisville CARES or to tenants that receive Section 8) may also apply on behalf of multiple tenants, which streamlines the application process by eliminating the need for income verification. This portion of the program is administered by Louisville Metro Office of Housing, part of Develop Louisville.
Have no outstanding code violations for the property for which rent is being paid.
Waive all late fees, fines, and penalties.
Forgo evictions for assisted tenants for 60 days after assistance is provided.
Provide pre-COVID-19 rent rolls to document delinquency rates before and after the pandemic.
Also today, the Mayor extended thanks to members of the Louisville’s Eviction Prevention Task Force, a collaboration of stakeholders representing the public, private and nonprofit sectors working to reduce Louisville’s eviction rate. The Task force recently launched a website called StopMyEviction.org that has a multitude of eviction prevention resources and services in one location.
Rental assistance and resources for tenants who are behind on their rent
Help coordinating assistance when facing an eviction
Support from a Task Force coordinator who will review requests on an online form and respond within 48 hours
The Legal Aid Society, part of the Eviction Prevention Task Force, provides legal assistance to tenants facing eviction in order to prevent homelessness. Legal Aid lawyers represent tenants in court to help avoid an eviction and maintain stability. To apply for Legal Aid’s assistance visit www.yourlegalaid.org or call (502) 584-1254.
Louisville Metro introduces new on-street dining for restaurants
New option will allow restaurants to expand outdoor dining into parking lanes
LOUISVILLE, KY (August 5, 2020) – Louisville Metro Government has expanded opportunities for restaurants to offer new temporary outdoor dining through the utilization of on-street parking spaces.
“As we envision a day beyond the pandemic, we want our eclectic Louisville eateries to be part of that future, which is why Louisville Metro has been seeking new ways to help them stay open throughout the restrictions,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “The new on-street dining option will give restaurants the chance to serve more customers in a safe manner while complying with the state restrictions that are necessary to stem the spread of COVID-19.”
In public, on-street parking spaces that do not have peak hour restrictions
On streets where the speed limit is 35 mph or less
Located in spaces immediately adjacent to the approved business
Other criteria include: being at least a foot from adjacent travel lanes, 20 feet from intersections and 10 feet from transit stops, functioning curb cuts and fire hydrants. The dining cannot be in bus or bike lanes, loading zones, or designated accessible parking spots, and all plans must meet requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Once the plan is submitted, staff with the Office of Advanced Planning and Sustainability will work with the applicants to discuss the process, cost and any potential challenges. An encroachment permit through either Louisville Metro Public Works or the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is required, depending on the business’ location. Metro staff will work with applicants to apply for those permits.
Restaurants will be responsible for providing their own furniture as well as required barriers for public safety. PARC is offering a discounted rate to bag meters if they are present in front of an establishment.
Pilot opportunity
As part of the launch, Louisville Metro will spend unused Cyclouvia funds to pilot on-street dining opportunities at up to 15 locations throughout the city for one month. This will include paying for barrier rentals and any applicable parking meter costs. Following the monthlong pilot, the businesses can decide whether to assume the cost themselves or remove the barriers.
Restaurants will be chosen based on the following criteria: safety, geography, the ability to partner with a neighboring restaurant, and need. Those will little or no options for other outdoor dining will be prioritized.
This is the latest measure Louisville Metro Government has taken to ease restrictions for restaurants during the pandemic. In May, the Department of Public Works temporarily suspended application fees for restaurants seeking an encroachment permit to add or expand their outdoor seating on public property, including sidewalks. Restaurants must still apply online for an encroachment permit for seating on public property at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/get-permit.
Louisville Forward worked with Louisville Metro Council to pass an emergency ordinance to suspend certain planning and zoning requirements to allow:
Restaurants to setup or expand outdoor seating on private property or in a parking lot without additional parking, landscaping or other requirements normally required.
Restaurants that are in compliance with the Land Development Code and that already have a liquor license to serve alcohol outdoors from their existing indoor bar.
The city also waived Tent Permit fees, allowing restaurants to erect canopies, a type of tent that has no side walls or flaps, over their outdoor dining. Restaurants must still apply for a tent permit at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/construction-review/tent-permits.
APCD Releases Final Report of the Multipollutant Stakeholder Group
The Air Pollution Control District is releasing the Final Report of the Multipollutant Stakeholder Group convening process, which kicked-off in November 2019 and completed in April 2020. Through this process,more than 60 representatives from over 36 entities or organizations came together to receive up-to-date information about Louisville’s air quality challenges and collaboratively develop more than 90 recommendations for the APCD and the community-at-large to advance local air quality goals. While much focus was given to ozone pollution – for which Louisville is not meeting the current national standard – the group expanded its discussion and looked for opportunities to reduce emissions of fine particulates and air toxics, as well as recommended strategies to reduce exposure and increase awareness of the importance of protecting our air quality.
This report not only captures the process through which the MPSG convened and the results of its efforts, but also should serve as a resource for our community that provides an overview of air quality here in Louisville. Air pollution impacts us all, and while our city’s air pollution has improved dramatically over the last few decades, much work remains to continue on our path toward achieving better air quality and protecting the health of all residents. This report represents the latest progress made toward those goals and provides strategies that our entire community can be a part of as we move forward.
The report can be found here. Please contact us at air@louisvilleky.gov or (502) 574-6000 with any questions about this report.
Mayor, Public Safety Chief provide update on search for new permanent LMPD Chief
Job posted after more than 10,000 people share views on qualities needed
LOUISVILLE, KY (August 3, 2020) — Mayor Greg Fischer and Amy Hess, the city’s Chief of Public Safety, today provided an update on the search for a new permanent Chief for the Louisville Metro Police Department – including news that the job description and position profile has been posted.
The Mayor noted that more than 10,000 people had provided input into the crafting of those documents by responding to an online survey and nearly two dozen listening sessions with various focus groups throughout the community.
These meetings, which were held both in person and virtually, included a variety of constituencies: Metro Council members and other elected officials, the business community, faith leaders, the international community, activist groups and LMPD employees.
In both the survey and the listening sessions, participants were asked:
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 2-3 years.
“Overall, the results reflect the reality that we’re a city of almost 800,000 people and there’s a diversity of perspectives on policing and on leadership,” the Mayor said, adding that it is clear that the new permanent chief should be a good communicator, able to strengthen the level of trust between LMPD and the people they serve; accountable and transparent, recognizing that the Chief’s job is to serve and protect the people of Louisville; and able to connect with and inspire confidence in the men and women of LMPD and rally them around the work of public safety reform.
“Ultimately, we all want the same thing – a safer, more racially just and more equitable city, and a city that shows the rest of America how to move from tragedy to transformation,” the Mayor said.
The Mayor and Chief Hess were joined Monday by LMPD officer Roberto Grider and Sydney Tucker, a member of the Mayor’s Youth Implementation Team, who had participated in the listening sessions.
Mayor Fischer relieved former LMPD Chief Steve Conrad of his duties on June 1, and named Robert Schroeder as LMPD’s interim chief, pending the hiring of a permanent chief.
On June 3, the Mayor announced that the city had hired the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), a non-profit Washington, D.C.-based police research organization to lead the search.
Hess noted that PERF has identified best practices for cities across the country on fundamental issues such as reducing police use of force; developing community policing and problem-oriented policing; using technology to deliver police services to the community; and evaluating crime reduction strategies.
“We’re fortunate to partner with PERF,” Hess said. “With their in-depth knowledge of policing issues and vast experience in police executive searches, the PERF team is fully engaged and committed to providing a highly qualified and diverse pool of candidates from which we will select our new chief.”
PERF reviewed and analyzed all the information residents provided to help pinpoint the qualities and characteristics needed for the city’s next police chief and will use that information as they conduct a national search and create a list of qualified candidates.
Next steps include convening a small group of community and Louisville Metro representatives to review the list, narrow it, conduct interviews, and send the Mayor their final recommendations. The entire process is expected to take four to six months.
Top to bottom review
Also during Monday’s news conference, Chief Hess provided an update on the top-to-bottom review of LMPD, which the Mayor called for in June, in the wake of the Breonna Taylor tragedy.
On July 2, the Mayor announced that the Chicago-based consulting firm Hillard Heintze, a Jensen Hughes company, would perform the comprehensive, top-to-bottom review, saying, “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.”
Hillard Heintze was selected in partnership with Metro Council President David James.
Hess said Monday that an initial meeting will be held this week to introduce the Hillard Heintze team to members of Metro Council and the LMPD Command Staff. At that time, they will provide an overview of the project, discuss their timeline, identify their objectives, and describe how they will elicit and incorporate community input. During onsite visits, Hillard Heintze plans to conduct interviews, observe training, and participate in ride-alongs with officers. In addition, they will be requesting numerous documents and files for review. The project is expected to take approximately four months.
City provides rental and utility assistance programs to aid residents impacted by COVID-19
Appointments scheduled using automated system; clients served remotely
LOUISVILLE, KY (August 4, 2020) - Louisville Metro Government reminds residents about the availability of rent and utility assistance for income eligible households impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Two programs launched in July to help residents in need of assistance: the Eviction Prevention Program and LIHEAP Summer Cooling.
The Eviction Prevention Assistance Program is designed to provide up to three months rental assistance for households at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) who have been affected by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) Summer Cooling Program is separated into two components, Subsidy and Crisis, to assist with electric cost. Households must meet eligibility requirements, with a household income at or below 60% of the Kentucky median income.
Both programs are administered by Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services. Appointments are required in advance to apply for both programs utilizing an automated appointment system described below.
The Eviction Prevention Assistance Program is funded using federal CARES Act dollars. LIHEAP is funded by a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
"For many Louisvillians, the COVID-19 pandemic has made the challenges to make ends meet pay their rent and utilities, and cover other basic expenses even greater," said Tameka Laird, director of Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS). "Our RCS and Neighborhood Place teams are honored to administer the Eviction Prevention Assistance and LIHEAP programs to help ease the financial burden experienced by vulnerable families."
Eviction Prevention Assistance Program
How to apply:
Jefferson County residents who meet the below eligibility requirements can call the automated scheduler at 502-977-6636 or visit online at EvictionPRevention.itfrontdesk.com.
Eligibility:
Jefferson County residency
Must have a pending court eviction, or a past due notice from landlord
Household income up to 80% AMI (Area Median Income) within the previous 30 days (see more details here.)
The assistance is necessary to avoid eviction
Reasonable prospect that the household will be able to resume payments within a reasonable period of time
Households facing COVID-related delinquencies
Landlords of federal, state or locally subsidized units may also apply on behalf of multiple tenants, which streamlines the application process by eliminating the need for income verification.
To be eligible, the landlord must:
Be currently registered on the Rental Registry.
Have no outstanding code violations for the property for which rent is being paid.
Waive all late fees, fines, and penalties.
Forgo evictions for assisted tenants for 60 days after assistance is provided.
Provide pre-COVID-19 rent rolls to document delinquency rates before and after the pandemic.
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
How to apply: Jefferson County residents meeting eligibility can call the automated scheduler at 502-991-8391 or visit online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.
Eligibility:
LIHEAP Subsidy eligibility:
Jefferson County residents within 60% of 2019-20 State Median Income Guidelines (see more details here.).
LIHEAP Crisis eligibility:
Criteria listed above for Subsidy, plus:
Received a Disconnect notice from utility service provider, or
Received a current bill with a past due amount, or
Received an eviction notice if utilities are included in the rent, or
Are within 10 days of running out of pre-paid electric service
All Office of Resilience and Community Services and Neighborhood Place offices remain closed for walk-in clients in an effort to help stem the spread of COVID-19. Staff are serving clients remotely via phone, secure drop boxes and email communication.
Payments for both Eviction Prevent and LIHEAP will be made directly to the vendors (i.e. landlord or LG&E.).
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
Beginning Monday, July 6, 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 5th 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.
Applications for Summer Cooling Subsidy and Crisis Components accepted through Oct. 31, 2020
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.
“Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) is proud to serve as part of the Community Action Kentucky network, and we’re so grateful this assistance is available to help our residents, said Tameka Laird, director of Louisville Metro RCS. “We want Louisvillians and all of our state’s residents to remain healthy, especially when dangerously high temperatures can make homes unsafe.”
“Kentuckians are already under financial pressure from the effects of COVID-19. Now as summer temperatures rise their increasing cooling bills will add to that burden,” said Roger McCann, executive director of Community Action Kentucky. “I'm thankful that through our partnership with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, we were able to offer this summer cooling program to provide relief at this crucial time.”
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.
Required documentation to drop off includes:
Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
Proof of all household’s (all members) income from the preceding month. All individuals 18 or over in the household with no income -- and no way to document that status such as a Food Stamp Award letter -- must have a Proof of No Income Form completed prior to applying for benefits. These forms are available at the LIHEAP Drop Box locations or online at gov/LIHEAP.
Most current electric bill, or statement from your landlord if electric expenses are included in your rent.
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.
Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. More information about LIHEAP and a listing of LIHEAP outreach offices can be found at the Community Action Kentucky website at www.CAPKY.org.
Newburg Days Festival 2020 Cancelled due to COVID-19 Pandemic
With a sense of great disappointment, Councilwoman Shanklin and the District 2 office have had to make the difficult decision to cancel the Newburg Days Festival for 2020. Due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic and our need to “stay safe,” there is simply no way to ensure visitors' health and safety while maintaining the Newburg Days events we all know and love. We all look forward to the Newburg Days Festival returning in 2021 and encourage residents to maintain the great sense of community that District 2 values in a safe and healthy way in the meantime. Thank you to all members of the community for your understanding during these tough times.
JCPS' Continued Response to the COVID-19 Outbreak
On Wednesday, JCPS held a press conference to announce the process for families to request and receive Chromebooks for students to use as part of Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI). They also provided updates on the start of the 2020-21 school year.
Current information from Ms. Abby Piper (Executive Administrator, Government/Community Relations; Jefferson County Public Schools):
I wanted to put this in your hands as a reminder that we are still collecting feedback on the proposed changes to our student assignment plan. The more we hear from, the better!
Summer Blessings secures funding for record number of food packs in fourth year of program
The COVID-19 pandemic postponed the annual Summer Blessings food packaging event, which was scheduled to take place April 16 during Mayor Greg Fischer’s “Give A Day” week of service and is a partnership between Blessings in a Backpack, Texas Roadhouse, Louisville Parks and Recreation and the Louisville Parks Foundation.
The program was started in 2017 to ensure food insecure children were not negatively impacted during the summer, when school is out of session.
In past years, the event has been held at the South Louisville Community Center. Summer Blessings typically brings up to 100 volunteers together in a festive event, with music playing in the background, to assemble food packs for distribution to children and families who attend Louisville Parks and Recreation’s summer programs.
But then, COVID-19 set in, forcing the packing event to be cancelled. It may have prevented the physical gathering of volunteers, but the work continued, with a new desire to expand the program, based on the steep rise in food insecurity due to the pandemic.
Thanks to Texas Roadhouse, the Kentucky Restaurant Association, the Kroger Foundation, and the Louisville Parks Foundation, Summer Blessings was already prepared to supply 8,000 food packages this summer. Due to the anticipated increased need, the Louisville Parks Foundation applied for, and received, emergency grants from the Kentucky Colonels, Delta Dental, and the One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Louisville.
With the enhanced funding through these additional partners, a record 12,300 food packs will be distributed to children across the community this summer. That’s nearly triple the number provided in 2017, when 3,600 packs were filled. The food was prepackaged for distribution and delivered to Louisville Parks and Recreation’s 13 community centers this week.
“So many in our community have risen to the occasion recently, and the expanded Summer Blessings Program is just another great example of the way Louisvillians look out for one another”, said Mayor Greg Fischer. “Thank you to Texas Roadhouse, the Louisville Parks Foundation, Blessings in a Backpack, and all the organizations who generously stepped up to support this program to feed our children during the summer months.”
“COVID-19 made this a challenge, but we have a lot to celebrate,” Brooke Pardue, CEO of the Louisville Parks Foundation, said. “We’ve been able to bring in additional partners who realize food insecurity in Louisville is at a critical stage this summer. I’m thrilled and inspired by the generosity of all of our partners, and extremely proud of how this program has grown.”
“At Blessings in a Backpack, we mobilize communities, individuals, and resources to provide food on the weekend to kids who might otherwise go hungry,” said Kim Holsclaw, Managing Director of Blessings in a Backpack. “The current public health emergency has highlighted just how vulnerable the 64,000 food-insecure children in Louisville are. Because of our partnership with Texas Roadhouse and the Louisville Parks Foundation, we are so pleased to see this service extended through the summer months.”
Currently, Louisville Parks and Recreation’s 13 community centers are closed due to the pandemic as the department awaits reopening guidance from state and local health officials, but the centers are staffed and will begin distributing the food packs immediately.
“We are working on a plan to reopen the centers, but in the meantime, parents and families are welcome to call ahead or even stop by their neighborhood community center Monday – Friday between 9am and 6pm to pick up food packs,” Johnson said. “We may not be open for programs and classes, but we do have staff on site to help.”
For a full listing of Louisville Parks and Recreation Community Centers and phone numbers please click here.
Louisville Parks and Recreation Due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, Louisville Metro Parks and Recreation is following all CDC guidelines and requirements implemented by the local, state and federal government. We encourage individuals to use parks, trails and open spaces safely, while following current guidelines. As park usage continues to increase, patrons are reminded that multiple facilities are closed and touch points are NOT sanitized routinely. To better inform the community, the Parks and Rec website and social media platforms will be updated daily. Thanks for your cooperation during these uncertain times. www.louisvilleky.gov/government/parks
Pappy Raffle Benefits Non Profits
One lucky person will walk away with 6 bottles of the most sought-after bourbon in the world. Cox’s and Evergreen Liquors have partnered with the Southwest Dream Team to give away 6 bottles of Pappy Van Winkle, just in time for the new Derby Day 2020. Customers can purchase $10 raffle tickets at all neighborhood Cox’s and Evergreen Liquors. (Tickets will be sold through the end of business hours on Thursday, September 3.) Then at noon on September 4 (the new Oaks Day), the lucky winner will be selected. The prize package includes Old Rip Van Winkle 10 year, Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 year, Pappy Van Winkle 15 year, Pappy Van Winkle 20 year, Pappy Van Winkle 23 year and Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 year.
One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to the Southwest Dream Team and their efforts with the Louisville Independent Business Alliance to educate about the community benefits of supporting local, independent businesses. Those businesses keep more dollars circulating within our neighborhoods and build a neighborhood’s community character and ‘sense of place’.
Having issues with high grass, illegal parking, street repairs, or other Code Enforcement concerns in the community? Contact 311!
Only service requests for the past 30 days will be accessible in the new system. If you need information on an older request, please call Metro 311 for status.
Anything submitted in the old reporting system (prior to June 19, 2019) will not show in the new system. It is still being processed however. Please call Metro311 for status.
To receive email notifications of the status of your service request you must have an account and you must have included your email address when you created your account. You can create a new account and report a new issue with Metro 311 by following this link.
Not all issues you put a service request in for require you to login. Some issues may be submitted anonymously, such as reporting a pothole and property maintenance cases, for instance. But having an account will allow you to track the progress and status of the request.
If you do not see a category which corresponds to your issue, please call Metro 311 at 311.
Waste Reduction Center is Open
After some much-needed maintenance, the Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue reopened on Tuesday, June 2. This is a popular disposal site for large loads of unbagged yard waste, tree limbs and stumps up to three feet in diameter, construction debris, and large household items. (Fees may apply.) Residents can dispose of up to four tires, up to three electronic items, and up to three large household items for FREE! Details can be found on the website. Open Tuesday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Renovating or remodeling? Don't start the demolition process until you make a plan for disposing of the resulting debris. Construction and demolition debris are prohibited by ordinance in Louisville garbage and large item collection. Collection crews will mark the material and leave a notice at the residence. Use the "What Goes Where" search tool on the Recycle Coach app to find out how to dispose of specific items.
So, what can you do with the construction and demolition debris? One option is to haul it to our Waste Reduction Center on Meriwether Avenue. Fees are variable depending on volume. More information and a fee schedule are available here.
A second option for large volumes of debris is to hire a hauling company. Often, a pickup truck can get the job done in a single trip. For even larger volumes, some companies will drop off a large dumpster at your home and then retrieve it after you're done filling it.
Help your Community and Report Potholes
One of the things we missed this Spring was the annual Pothole Blitz. But Louisville Metro fills potholes in streets and alleys every day and we need your help to report them.
If you see a streetlight out in your neighborhood (or anywhere in Louisville), please note the address and report it to LG&E for repair. Click here to fill out the online form to report broken or malfunctioning streetlights. We always recommend adding your contact information to the request, so a technician who has questions can contact you. LG&E makes repairs during the day. Make sure you follow up if the streetlight hasn’t been repaired within seven (7) days.
LMPD News
LMPD reminder: Please secure your property!
A reminder to lock your vehicle, and never leave valuables in plain sight. This includes any and all keys, key fobs and firearms.
Police report that some drivers are making it easy for thieves by leaving their vehicle running. Please secure your property.
LMPD suggests making a 9 p.m. routine, as seen below.
Remove valuables from your vehicle.
Lock your car.
Secure your weapons.
Close your garage.
Lock your doors and windows.
Remember to report any suspicious behavior to LMPD’s non-emergency line at 574-7111. To speak to a call taker, press 5.
Metro Emergency Repair Program
Eligibility criteria:
Must be owner occupied for at least one year.
Not available on rental property.
Must meet income guidelines (see intake staff).
May receive assistance once in a five year period.
Louisville-Jefferson County only.
Types of repairs:
Furnace repair or replacement (October-April only).
A/C unit- repair or replacement (Requires medical statement, available May-Sept. only).
Electrical repairs/upgrades.
Water line repairs/replacement.
Sewer line repairs/replacement.
Water heater repair/replacement (gas or electric).
With one in three Kentuckians out of work because of the coronavirus, many in our community face anxieties around paying bills and affording basic necessities.
Louisville Water understands the stress this may cause and is launching Drops of Kindness, a new customer assistance program for an unpaid water and wastewater bill.
Drops of Kindness offers a customized approach to help customers resolve unpaid bills. CLICK HERE for more information.
Louisville Water program can help customers remove privately owned lead service lines
Louisville Water has a program in place to assist in the removal of privately owned lead service lines. Under the program, Louisville Water will pay 50 percent of the removal cost up to $1,500. If a customer meets certain income criteria they may be eligible for a Louisville Water Foundation grant to cover the remaining cost. Additionally, Louisville Water offers free water quality testing for any customer who has a concern.
Louisville Water reports that there are 814 properties with privately owned lead service lines in Louisville Metro.
To make customers aware of the program Louisville Water is mailing each of those 814 customers a letter outlining the program. If they don’t hear back from those customers LWC will follow up with a postcard and phone call.
Food Pantry open in District 2
Open every 2nd Monday of the month -- 10am - 12pm
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Serving households in the 40213, 40218 & 40219 Zip Codes Only
New interactive map makes legal Short Term Rentals easy to find
Short term rental enforcement continues in large part to be complaint-driven, based on public reporting of alleged violations to administrators.
Now, there is a new tool available to help. This interactive map contains all of the registered short term rentals in Louisville having an active permit to rent their property out to paying customers on STR websites like Airbnb.
In the map sample at upper left, light blue represents properties with active registrations. Green indicates properties with active registrations and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), which is required to rent the property if it is not the owner's primary residence.
If you believe someone is using a property as a short term rental but it does not show up on this registry, or if the registry indicates a non-owner occupied property does not have a CUP, then please report the issue here (select “Zoning and Business Concerns,” “Zoning Concern,” “Short Term Rental,” complete the form and submit). Or contact our office.
Report a Litterer!
Get directly involved in making Louisville a more litter-free community through the Report-A-Litterer program aimed at motorists who throw fast-food wrappers, cigarette butts, soda bottles, or any type of litter out of their car window.
Louisville non-profits have launched a new website to help connect people in need of food, shelter, and more. Metro United Way and the Family Scholar House partnered to create LouieConnect, modeling it on a similar site created in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. When someone uses LouieConnect, the web-based app asks for basic information and then lists applicable resources nearby — from food pantries to shelters to career centers to financial literacy programs.
***Important Metro Services Phone Numbers***
Air Pollution: (502) 574-6000
Animal Services: (502) 363-6609 or (502) 361-1318
Brightside: (502) 574-2613
Community Services & Revitalization: (502) 574-4377
Congressman John Yarmuth: (502) 582-5129
IPL (Code Enforcement): (502) 574-3321
Legal Aid Society: (502) 584-1254
LG&E Business: (502) 627-3313 or (800)- 331-7370
LG&E Residential: (502) 589-1444 or (800) 331-7370
LMPD 6th Division: (502) 574-2187
LMPD Anonymous Tipline: (502) 574-LMPD (5673)
LMPD: (Non Emergency): (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-2111
