Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 08/21/2020 01:27 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 pandemic***
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.
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The following information outlines Kentucky's current plan on voting procedures for the 2020 election:
Absentee Ballot By Mall
Kentuckians concerned with contracting or spreading COVID-19 can request a ballot by mail.
An online portal will launch within the week to allow Kentuckians to request a ballot by mail. Ballots can be requested through the portal through October 9, and through traditional means after.
Mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day, November 3, and received by November 6.
Drop boxes will be available for Kentuckians to return their mail ballots if they are concerned about postal delays. County clerks will determine these locations.
Early Voting
Beginning October 13, three weeks before the election, every work day between October 13 and Election Day, and every Saturday for at least four hours, every county clerk will provide a location for safe in-person voting.
Early voting is not absentee voting - anyone can vote early for any reason.
Election Day Voting
County election officials will decide election sites on Election Day. The State Board of Elections, Secretary of State and Governor will approve each plan.
Every county will have at least one voting super-center, where everyone from the county can go to vote, regardless of his or her precinct.
Voter Identification
Kentuckians who were unable to get a driver’s licenses or photo ID due to the pandemic because their clerk’s office was closed, or because they were afraid of exposing themselves to COVID-19, can sign a document explaining this concern and cast their ballot.
Additionally, 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:
8/14/2020:Secretary of State Michael Adams sent Gov. Beshear a formal letter of recommendation, and the Governor issued an Executive Order that outlines procedures for the state’s General Election, to be held Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020. Voter options include absentee ballot by mail (returned by mail or to a drop box), early voting and election day voting. Kentuckians who were unable to get a driver’s licenses or photo ID due to the pandemic because their clerk’s office was closed, or because they were afraid of exposing themselves to COVID-19, can sign a document explaining this concern and cast their ballot. To learn more, read the full release detailing the elections plan.
8/12/2020:Gov. Beshear offered an update on his administration’s travel advisory, which recommends a 14-day self-quarantine for Kentuckians who travel to states and U.S. territories that are reporting a positive coronavirus testing rate equal to or greater than 15%. The current areas meeting this threshold include Florida, Nevada, Mississippi, Idaho, South Carolina, Texas, Alabama and Arizona.
8/11/2020:Issued an executive order allowing bars and restaurants to operate at 50% of capacity, as long as people can remain six feet from anyone who is not in their household or group. Bars and restaurants will be required to halt food and beverage service by 10 p.m. and close at 11 p.m. local time. The full list of requirements is posted on the Healthy at Work website.
8/10/2020:Gov. Beshear, in consultation with Kentucky teachers and school administrators, recommends that schools wait to begin in-person classes until Sept. 28. For more information, read the full release.
8/6/2020:Extended the state’s mandate requiring face coverings in some situations for another 30 days, citing its success and continued importance in flattening the curve of novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the commonwealth.
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.
Gov. Beshear: Kentucky’s Application for Additional Federal Unemployment Assistance Approved
FRANKFORT, KY. (Aug. 21, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced Friday that the state’s application to bring in additional federal money to aid unemployed Kentuckians has been accepted.
“COVID-19 has caused the loss of millions of jobs across the nation, and unfortunately Kentucky is no exception,” the Governor said. “I am committed to fighting for every dollar to help our people survive this global pandemic and our workforce return to full strength.”
The Governor said Kentucky is the first state in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Region 4 to be approved through the agency’s Lost Wages Program to give $400 to unemployment insurance claimants.
“This program will allow about 80,000 Kentuckians receiving at least $100 a week unemployment benefits for the weeks of July 26-Aug. 15 to receive an additional payment of $400, if they are unemployed or partially unemployed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Gov. Beshear said. “The $400 will apply to all programs: traditional UI, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program and the extended benefits programs.”
The Governor noted the federal government originally provided an additional $600 to those facing job loss. That program ended without a replacement by the U.S. Congress. Then on Aug. 8, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum seeking to extend some additional benefits to Americans whose jobs have been harmed or eliminated by the global pandemic.
Gov. Beshear noted that most of the states approved for the program – including Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico and Utah – have chosen to fund the program solely with federal dollars, meaning recipients will receive $300.
“We have decided to provide an extra $100 using CARES Act money. Kentucky’s portion will be approximately $8 million per week, for a total of $24 million over the three-week initial grant period,” Gov. Beshear said.
While the application is approved, reconfiguring the computer systems to pay the $400 is likely to take about two weeks. Therefore, benefits recipients should not expect the payments until sometime in early September.
More Information Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville
Build Back Better, Together focus on increasing resiliency, battling pandemic and addressing systemic racism
Focus area teams’ co-chairs update city on their progress, actions
Louisville, KY (August 21, 2020) – Mayor Greg Fischer today hosted the Build Back Better, Together Leadership Convening where leaders updated the community on actions taken, including the creation of multiple funds to help residents in need and beginning of equity and inclusion audits, as well as ongoing conversations about how to make Louisville a stronger and more equitable city.
“It is unclear when we as a city and country will begin to move beyond the pandemic into a period of recovery. As a result, the original mission of Build Back Better, Together to focus on how we recover has shift to ‘How do we increase our resiliency to ensure we are prepared for anything that may come?” the Mayor said. “As a city we have to find ways to strike a balance between doing what we have to so we can slow the spread of COVID-19 and save lives, while also helping our businesses and creating fundamental change that leads to greater equity and racial justice.”
Even with a measured reopening process, case numbers and deaths in Louisville, Kentucky, and the nation are still rising and continue to disproportionally impact Black and brown communities, making it premature to plan for a full reopening and economic recovery. As such, the BBBT initiative is focus growing the city’s resiliency.
The BBBT focus area teams – arts and culture; built and natural environment; economy; education and talent development; health and safety; hospitality, sports and Bourbonism; and social infrastructure and impact – are prioritizing equity issues that must be addressed before, during, and after any eventual recovery to address economic and health impacts of COVID-19 and dismantle systemic racism. And as actions and policies are being developed and recommended, the teams will re-assess risks and re-evaluate vulnerabilities considering the swiftly changing circumstances of the economy, pandemic and calls for racial justice.
During the Leadership Convening, co-chairs from each focus area spoke about their teams’ ongoing conversations and highlighted actions taken, including:
Creation of multiple artist relief funds, including Fund for the Arts’ Black Artist Fund and Cultural Lou Recovery Grants
Identified best practices and recommendations for safely reopening crafted by representatives from more than 50 local organizations
Established Black Tourism Advisory Council within Louisville Tourism, which also hosted its inaugural Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training with nearly 450 participants
Creation of Community Activation Network by Center for Nonprofit Excellence to foster further connection between nonprofits and created a survey to determine priority areas
Start of equity review of the Land Development Code by Develop Louisville staff
Expansion of opportunities for outdoor dining for restaurants through Louisville Metro policies changes and assistance
Launch of the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grants Program by Louisville Forward
Announcement of Evolve502 scholarship program for JCPS graduates who enroll at Simmons College of Kentucky or any of the state’s Kentucky Community and Technical College System campuses
Creation of Eviction Prevention COVID-19 Relief Fund by Louisville Metro and partnership with the courts and Legal Aid to provide backstop for eviction cases
Analysis of representation in arts and culture venues, programs, and public spaces
The co-chairs also listed potential actions under discussion, including:
Analyzing various public spaces for use as venues for arts programming
Exploring the possible elimination of fines and other barriers to access to LFPL services
Considering sustained closure of roads in Iroquois and Cherokee parks and leverage existing work to create more access to Beargrass Creek
Producing MBE/BIPOC directory to increase supplier diversity
Identifying sustainable funding models and more opportunities for collaboration across nonprofits that undertake similar work
Determine funding options to expand wrap-around services for students
Building a more robust small business support system
Louisville Metro highlights strategies for wealth building and anti-displacement
LMHA launching new program; Office of Housing accepting applications for homeownership programs
LOUISVILLE, KY (August 12, 2020) – Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer today highlighted initiatives to increase access to affordable housing and keep existing homeowners in their homes, including a new program through the Louisville Metro Housing Authority.
“For years, we have worked to grow our programs around wealth building and initiatives aimed at preventing the displacement of residents in neighborhoods experiencing higher levels of investment. In light of the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, those efforts are more critical than ever,” Mayor Fischer said. “By breaking down barriers to homeownership and offering resources to keep others staying their homes, we promote long-term housing stability and wealth-building for our residents.”
Louisville Metro Housing Authority (LMHA) announced during the press conference that it had received approval from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to launch a new program that will provide funds to income-eligible residents of the Park DuValle, Phoenix Hill, Smoketown or Russell neighborhoods who have become homeowners through LMHA’s revitalization efforts. The funds can be used to offset their mortgage, interest, property tax or utility costs to help them stay in their homes.
The new LMHA program is part of HUD’s Moving to Work (MTW) initiative that allows public housing authorities to use federal dollars on locally designed and tested efforts to help residents find employment, become self-sufficient and increase housing choices for low-income families. For more information, visit www.lmha1.org.
“LMHA remains committed to strengthening Louisville neighborhoods and assisting residents in achieving self-sufficiency. This MTW activity allows us to further those non-traditional approaches in maintaining homeownership opportunities for low-income residents in our historic neighborhoods undergoing unprecedented growth,” said Lisa Osanka, director Louisville Metro Housing Authority. “Now more than ever, our team is invested in keeping our families homed with the support they need to be healthy and safe. We will continue working with our community partners to provide the services essential to that mission.”
The city, meanwhile, has dedicated more than $7 million toward its Office of Housing’s Down Payment Assistance and Home Repair programs, which use local funds as well as federal Community Development Block Grant funds and HOME Investment Partnership Program Funds to help income-qualified residents purchase homes, or make needed repairs on their properties. During the budget process, Louisville Metro Government worked closely with Metro Council to allocate additional funds to these and other anti-displacement programs.
Through the Down Payment Assistance Program, qualified homebuyers can receive up to 20 percent of the purchase price to help them buy homes in neighborhoods throughout Jefferson County.
Through the Office of Housing’s Home Repair programs, current homeowners – including those buying a home through the Down Payment Assistance program – can access money to cover the costs of electrical and HVAC work, plumbing and roofing. The city also offers Home Repair programs specifically for residents of west Louisville, Smoketown and Shelby Park to make emergency repairs to improve home safety and help them stay in their homes.
This year, The Office of Housing also brought back its Exterior Code Alleviation Program, which is designed to assist low, moderate, and middle-income homeowners in eliminating exterior code violations and fixing minor essential exterior repairs to improve the sustainability of the home. Eligible repairs include painting, siding, gutters, downspouts, roof replacement/chimney repair, steps, window sealing, foundation work and more.
Those who apply for these home repair funds are also encouraged to apply for the city’s property tax moratorium. Earlier this year, in a joint effort by Louisville Metro Government and Louisville Metro Council, the city made the Property Assessment and Reassessment Moratorium Program more accessible to homeowners in west Louisville, Smoketown and Shelby Park by lowering the amount homeowners in those neighborhoods need to invest in home repairs and upgrades in order to qualify. The city also agreed to waive a $40 administrative fee for low-income residents.
The Office of Housing is currently accepting applications for the Home Repair, Down Payment Assistance and Exterior Code Alleviation programs. It expects to fulfill more than 350 applications requesting funding. You can learn more about these programs or apply at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/housing.
These programs are part of the city’s broader anti-displacement strategies that focus on combating the threat of involuntary displacement as neighborhoods see greater investment. As part of that work, Louisville Metro also announced Tuesday that it had issued a competitive request for proposals, seeking one or more organizations to develop and manage a Community Land Trust, a tool to create permanently affordable homeownership opportunities in neighborhoods that lack affordable housing or areas experiencing high levels of investment.
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's Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods offers resources to residents affected by the COVID-19 pandemic
As cities across the country anticipate an unprecedented wave of evictions, we want to be sure to share some important resources available to Louisville renters, small-business owners and everyone affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides the establishment of vital resources for Louisville residents, we are pleased to see the groundwork for innovative solutions such as the establishment of a Community Land Trust as well as review of the Land Development Code. These measures will help ensure equitable housing solutions moving forward. Finally, we want to ensure citizens are aware of the resources available to them, so be sure to share the below resources with friends, family, and neighbors in need.
Funds are available to households making up to 80% of Area Median Income limits. Please see the above chart for qualifications. Anyone with a pending court eviction or a past due notice from their landlord is encouraged to apply.
In an effort to preserve the countless unique small businesses across Louisville Metro, the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grants Program is available. Eligible businesses who can demonstrate need can qualify for up to $50,000 in assistance.
Up to $1,000 in funds are available for households, with a demonstrated need, that have lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications and supplemental documentation can be completed online. Funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Summer Cooling funds are available until October 31, or until funds are depleted. Applicants must be Jefferson County residents whose household makes 60% or less of the Kentucky State Median Income. Click the above link or call 502.991.8391 to begin.
Eligible applicants can receive a 10% reduction on MSD charges through July 31, 2021. Discount applies to MSD wastewater service charges, wastewater volume charges and consent decree surcharges. Total household income must be at or below 150% of the poverty line and with supporting documentation
The Louisville water company has not suspended water service for late payments since the onset of the pandemic. However, with over 12,000 late accounts, Louisville water Company has implemented Drops of Kindness, a catered payment solution that takes into account customer hardships as well as pairs them with community resources that can provide assistance. To learn more, click on the above link. Call 502.583.6610 to get started with a customer care representative.
Visit the Kentuckiana Job Board, which is updated weekly, to find a wide range of opportunities.
City, community partners celebrate Women’s Equality Day with virtual event on August 22
August 2020 marks 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment establishing women’s right to vote
LOUISVILLE, KY (August 18, 2020) - Women’s Equality Day, celebrated every August 26, commemorates the passage of women’s suffrage in the U.S. and reminds us of the hurdles overcome by the heroic women, and men allies, who faced violence and discrimination to propel the women’s movement forward. 2020 marks the 100-year anniversary of when the U.S. Constitution was changed guaranteeing women throughout the country the right to vote.
Locally, Louisville Metro Office For Women (OFW), Louisville’s League of Women Voters (LWV), and the Frazier History Museum are presenting a virtual program on August 22, “Women's Equality Day 2020: Celebrating the 100th & the 55th Anniversaries of Voting Rights Act”. Hosted by Tina Ward-Pugh, director of Louisville’s OFW, this will include presentations and inspiring speakers including Tina Cassidy, author of “Mr. President, How Long Must We Wait?”; and poet and artist Hannah Drake who will present an original work.
The Suffrage committee (OFW, LWV and Frazier) have worked with dozens of community partners to sponsor a multitude of projects throughout the year leading up to the 19th Amendment centennial milestone, and the Voting Rights Act 55th anniversary singed into law on August 6, 1965 to prohibit discrimination in voting, Though drastically reduced by the COVID-19 pandemic, events have included, “What Is a Vote Worth?: Suffrage Then and Now” - a yearlong exhibit at the Frazier History Museum; a monthly Suffrage-series column with the Courier-Journal; and a centennial poster contest with help of the Louisville Visual Art. The group has also worked to increase voter registration and advocate for expanded opportunities to vote.
“What an exciting time to be alive in the world”, said Ward-Pugh. “We are living history. It is an honor and a privilege for Louisville Metro’s Office for Women to be one of the three founding leaders of this annual event. It is especially significant this year as we celebrate the 55th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act by spotlighting six women of color and bring them to the forefront as they so richly deserve.”
Also, look for the lighting of the Big Four Bridge – the pedestrian bridge linking Louisville and Jeffersonville -- in purple, yellow and white on August 25, 26 and 27, in celebration of the Suffragists movement.
The deadline to register online to vote in Jefferson County for the 2020 General Election is October 5. For more information, visit http://elections.jeffersoncountyclerk.org/
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 News and Continued Response to the COVID-19 Outbreak
Jefferson Co. Board of Education authorizes legal challenge of tax recall petition
Action questions ‘number of valid, registered Jefferson County voters and their information’
August 18, 2020 – Citing a host of irregularities, the Jefferson County Board of Education will be challenging the certification of a tax recall petition by the Jefferson County Clerk’s office. The board voted Tuesday night to take legal action to uphold its approval of a 7-cent increase in local property taxes to fund overdue construction, renovation and academic improvements in JCPS schools.
“We owe it to our current and future students, parents and teachers to challenge the county clerk’s ruling,” said Diane Porter, school board chair. “This is about doing what’s right for students and we don’t believe the petition contains the number of valid, registered Jefferson County voters and their information required by law.”
A review of the petition by the Jefferson County Teachers Association found duplicate names, erroneous addresses and birthdates and missing information totaling in the thousands, raising serious questions about the validity of these signatures.
“We’re confident the petition did not meet the standards set forth in legislation,” said Dr. Marty Pollio, JCPS superintendent. “But if the courts disagree with us, I look forward to making the case to Jefferson County voters that JCPS has a critical, immediate need for new revenue so our students have academic opportunities, classrooms and athletic facilities that are similar to those in other Kentucky public school districts.”
On May 21, the Jefferson County Board of Education voted to raise the local school property tax rate from 73.6 cents to 80.6 cents per $100 of assessed property, which would generate about $51 million in new revenue for the district. Opponents had 50 days to gather enough valid signatures of registeredJefferson County voters to recall the board’s action and place the issue on the Nov. 3 ballot. The school board’s legal action is expected to challenge the validity of thousands of signatures as well as the clerk’s process for certifying them.
Current information from Ms. Abby Piper (Executive Administrator, Government/Community Relations; Jefferson County Public Schools):
As we know the school year’s kickoff looks different than in years past. Normally, thousands of JCPS staff report to one large auditorium for our administrative kickoff, where they hear a message from Dr. Pollio and receive information about the coming year. This week, Dr. Pollio delivered his message on YouTube, and so I’m happy to share this with you, as I think his message is particularly relevant to our whole community this year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSfSDA0avwE.
Call to action goes out for local artists to help in honoring Breonna Taylor
A special mural design needed for the new basketball court in Lannan Memorial Park
Councilwoman Donna Purvis (D-5) is putting out the call for local artists who would like to be a part of a new community project that will honor the life of Breonna Taylor.
“We are announcing a new plan to redesign the basketball court in the park, and we want to incorporate the talents of local artists to help us honor the life of this young Louisville woman,” says Purvis. “It will be something special and we want to find something inspiring to help bring the community together.”
Metro Parks with the help of the Russ Smith Foundation, Louisville attorney Nick Wilson, Councilwoman Purvis, and several council members will enhance Lannan Memorial Park with a regulation size basketball court. The mural will be part of the court’s floor design. A special acrylic applied to the surface will keep the mural intact.
Artists who are willing to collaborate on the mural will have the opportunity to submit a drawing for consideration. A scanned copy of the design should be emailed to Denise Bentley at: Denise.Bentley@louisvilleky.gov. The deadline is Tuesday, August 25th at 5:00pm.
For more information, contact Councilwoman Purvis office at 574-1105.
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.
Join the Louisville Metro Public Works & Assets Team!
Find a rewarding career! Serve the Louisville community!
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
*** NEWBURG LIBRARY CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO COVID-19 RESPONSE ***
UPDATE: Beginning on Monday, August 17th, the Main Library opened for computer access by appointment. The 3 regional libraries opened for the same services starting Tuesday, August 18th. Reservations can be made by phone and will be for 90 minutes. Those who arrive without an appointment will be accommodated if space is available, or an appointment can be made for the next available time. Patrons will also have access to free printing limited to 25 pages per day. We will begin immediately to get additional branches ready to open for the same services, but there are not dates yet for when those branches will open. Additional details will be contained in the press release announcing the opening, and are also available on the Library website at www.lfpl.org/Appointment.
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
