Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 10/02/2020 03:18 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
***October 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.
Louisville Metro Police Department 6th Division Questions? Contact Us
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CLICK HERE OR CALL 574-LMPD (5673) TO SUBMIT A CRIME TIP
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:
9/28/2020: Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman announced the new online portal for reporting on COVID-19 for schools. The new dashboard is available on the main kycovid19.ky.gov website under the Healthy at School section.
9/22/2020: Gov. Beshear announced that Kentucky has been approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for an additional three weeks of Lost Wage Assistance (LWA) payments. Eligible Kentuckians will receive $400 for the weeks of Aug. 22, Aug. 29, and Sept. 5 for each week a claimant meets the criteria.
Eligibility criteria:
Individuals who qualify for a weekly benefit of at least $100 per week in unemployment compensation for each week covered by FEMA's LWA
Individuals who have self-certified that their employment has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic
Payments will be automatically processed for claimants who meet the weekly benefit criteria and have already provided a self-certification. Claimants meeting the weekly benefit requirement who have not yet self-certified will be given an opportunity to provide the required self-certification, and those claimants will receive the benefit so long as FEMA funding remains.
Gov. Beshear Announces Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund Website
FRANKFORT, KY. (Sept. 8, 2020) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced the launch of the Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund website, teamkyhherf.ky.gov, where Kentuckians now can visit and apply for assistance.
“As we continue to wage this battle against COVID-19, we must make sure renters have a home so they can be Healthy at Home, while also safeguarding landlords against undue financial hardship,” the Governor said. “When we come out of this global health crisis, we don’t want Kentuckians facing such insurmountable debt from their housing situation that they are unable to recover. This program will provide some much-needed relief to eligible tenants and property owners during these unprecedented times.”
Kentuckians can visit the site to seek information on how to obtain a portion of $15 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act money the Governor pledged to support the Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund. Details of the application of the funds include:
Eligible landlords can be reimbursed for missed rent payments and receive some advance rent payments to keep tenants in their homes;
For eligible tenants, the program pays up to 90 percent of past-due rent and may also cover up to two months of future rent;
For approved applications, payments will be made directly to eligible landlords; and
Kentuckians may submit applications beginning today, Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020.
On Friday, Gov. Beshear, who has taken repeated steps to keep people from being evicted at the height of the pandemic, updated the state’s executive order on evictions to reflect the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s moratorium on residential evictions through Dec. 31.
Under the CDC order, a tenant who signs and submits a declaration to his or her landlord about the inability to timely pay rent cannot be evicted. However, the declaration is required in order to prevent an eviction. Like the Governor’s prior executive orders on evictions, the CDC order does not relieve anyone of the obligation to pay rent or comply with any other obligation under a tenancy, lease or similar contract. The CDC order allows landlords to charge and collect fees, penalties and interest for failure to timely pay rent, but prohibits evictions for nonpayment or late payment of such fees, penalties or interest.
The Kentucky Supreme Court has issued the following orders (2020-59 and 2020-64) establishing the Jefferson County Eviction Diversion Pilot Project and the procedure for eviction proceedings in courts. Until the Court issues a new order, these are controlling.
Lawyers who want to volunteer to provide direct legal assistance to Kentuckians in need during the pandemic can visit Together Lawyers Can.
On March 25, Gov. Beshear initially suspended evictions as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold.
More Information More information about eligibility and how to apply is available at teamkyhherf.ky.gov.
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.
Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.
Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville
Mayor Fischer announces eight people to serve on search panel and participate in interviewing candidates for LMPD Chief
LOUISVILLE, KY (October 1, 2020) — Mayor Greg Fischer today announced the names of the eight people who will serve on the search panel for a permanent Louisville Metro Police Department Chief, conducting a detailed screening of candidates and recommending top choices for the top spot.
The panel will be focused on the need for police reform and accountability, in keeping with the substantial input received through community surveys and listening sessions held this summer and guidelines provided by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), the non-profit Washington, D.C.-based police research organization that is helping lead the search.
“This panel comprises dedicated leaders from Metro Council, city government and our community – each with a commitment to achieving our goal of reimagining public safety,” Mayor Fischer said. “I am confident they will provide thoughtful insight as we work to advance police reform in our city.”
Metro Council President David James added: “Without question, this selection process will be one of the most important ones the city will make moving forward. I am honored to work with those who have been chosen. Our challenge is to find the right candidates who will listen to the community and are interested in building relationships that reform LMPD and help us retain and locate the right people who want to walk our streets and neighborhoods. Judging by the public safety experience I see on this committee, I’m pleased the Mayor added a community representative to the panel. It is important this process is as transparent as practically possible, and I’m ready to get started.”
In concert with a Council resolution, the panel includes leadership from Louisville Metro Government (LMG), the Council President, Chair and Vice Chair of the Council’s Public Safety Committee and one private citizen:
Kendall Boyd, LMG Chief Equity Officer
Boyd, an attorney, has served in city government since 2014, and was appointed to his current role in March. Previously, Boyd served as Assistant Director of Human Resources and then appointed Director of the Louisville Metro Human Relations Commission in 2017.
He has been committed to ensuring fairness and justice for all people, and has participated in the creation and enforcement of policies aimed at making the community more equitable.
Jessica Green, Public Safety Committee Chair, Metro Council
Councilwoman Green began serving as District 1 Councilwoman in 2015; her district includes Lake Dreamland, Cane Run Road, Campground Road, Bells Lane, south to Lower Hunters Trace, in South West Louisville. The district also covers Chickasaw, Russell, California, Park DuValle and Parkland neighborhoods.
In 2019, she was elected Vice Chair of the Council’s Majority Caucus.
During her tenure on the Metro Council, Councilwoman Green has made public safety one of her top priorities. She championed the use of ShotSpotter technology for Louisville Metro Police as a better way of detecting gunfire in the city.
Amy Hess, Chief of Public Safety
As Chief of Public Safety, Hess oversees Emergency Services, Corrections, Fire and LMPD. Before coming to LMG in February 2020, Hess was the highest-ranking woman in the FBI and was serving as Executive Assistant Director of the FBI's Criminal, Cyber, Response and Services Branch in Washington D.C. Previously, she served as the Special Agent in Charge of the Louisville field office, with responsibility for all FBI personnel and operations throughout the commonwealth of Kentucky.
David James, Metro Council President
President James was elected to the Metro Council in November of 2010. He serves the neighborhoods of Algonquin, California, Limerick, Old Louisville, Park Hill, Russell, St. Joseph, Shelby Park, Smoketown-Jackson, Taylor-Berry, University, and the Central Business District.
He has previously held leadership positions as Democratic Caucus Chair in 2013 and 2015.
James has also chaired the Metro Council’s Public Safety Committee. He is a former police officer who has served 30 years in law enforcement including LMPD.
Vincent James, Chief of Community Building, LMG
As Chief of Community Building, James plays a key role in helping with the city’s comprehensive public safety strategy. He supervises departments including the Office for Safe & Healthy Neighborhoods, Public Health & Wellness, Youth Transition Services, the Louisville Zoo, and Parks & Recreation.
Chief James is also pastor of Elim Baptist Church in Parkland.
James Peden, Public Safety Committee Co-Chair, Metro Council
Councilman Peden was elected to the first Louisville Metro Council in November 2002 after the city and county government merger. He represents the suburban cities of Hollow Creek, Spring Mill and Heritage Creek as well as the neighborhoods of Highview, Okolona and Fern Creek.
His civic involvement includes serving as a major with the Highview Fire Department, where he retired in 2013 after 26 years. He also was a teacher with JCPS for 25 years.
Carmen Moreno-Rivera, Chief of Performance Improvement, LMG
As Chief of the Office for Performance Improvement (OPI), Moreno-Rivera leads strategic and resiliency planning efforts and the performance management program (LouieStat) for Louisville Metro Government. Her staff members facilitate cross-functional teams and train Metro employees in continuous improvement methodologies and project management to support an efficient and effective government.
VanCleave, a teacher at Rangeland Elementary, is the panel’s community representative. She has served in several leadership roles such as an elected delegate for the Kentucky Education Association Delegate Assembly and National Education Association Representative Assembly. She has been instrumental in implementing trauma informed care at her school. She also has served on JCPS’ Racial and Equity Committee.
More than 20 people applied by the August 31 deadline for the permanent Chief role. The panel will evaluate the applications, conduct interviews, identify top candidates who appear best suited to lead the LMPD, and make recommendations to the Mayor. The interview process will incorporate input previously collected from the community and LMPD through the aforementioned surveys and listening sessions, as well as questions the community would like to ask the candidates. Anyone interested in suggesting interview questions can email them to LouisvilleChiefQuestions@policeforum.org.
The search is being conducted by PERF, acclaimed for guiding cities across the country on issues including 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. For 30 years, PERF has identified the most skilled professionals in the field and assisted cities in recruiting and selecting well-qualified candidates.
Former LMPD Deputy Chief Yvette Gentry has agreed to serve in the interim role until a new permanent Chief is selected. Gentry is replacing LMPD Chief Robert Schroeder in the interim role; she was sworn in today.
Mayor Fischer is expected to name the new permanent Chief by the end of the year.
Mayor thanks, congratulates Chief Robert Schroeder on his retirement from LMPD Schroeder served 23 years, moving on to prioritize family, health, education
LOUISVILLE, KY. (September 30, 2020) – Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer today thanked interim Louisville Metro Police Chief Rob Schroeder for his 23 years of service to the department and in particular, the outstanding work he’s done leading LMPD during the city’s four months of racial justice protests.
The Mayor noted that Chief Schroeder had agreed to take the interim role for a few months, and is moving on to prioritize his family, health and complete his doctorate.
“For more than two decades, Chief Schroeder has been an indispensable part of Louisville's public safety work, rising from a hardworking patrol officer to the highest position of leadership,” the Mayor said. “I deeply appreciate his commitment to community policing and innovation, and his outstanding work on critical initiatives such as LMPD’s rollout of body cameras, the Police Data Initiative and the Real Time Crime Center.”
Schroeder led the department’s Administrative Services Division before being named Deputy Chief. He assumed the role of interim chief of LMPD on June 1 and led the department during one of the most tumultuous times in the city’s history. His four-month tenure included daily protests in response to the Breonna Taylor case, in addition to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, a rise in homicides and an economic downturn.
“Chief Schroeder rose to every challenge as interim chief. He understood immediately that our police officers have to balance protecting people’s First Amendment rights with the need to preserve the safety of the public,” the Mayor said. “He showed that he’s a man of character, compassion and courage, exactly the qualities we’ve needed in a leader during this pivotal moment in our city’s history.”
Schroeder also helped implement public safety reforms including Breonna’s Law, new rules on duty to intervene, restrictions on use of force and tear gas, and moving to more quickly clear a backlog of internal investigations.
Chief Schroeder said: “I am grateful to the Mayor for his confidence in my leadership and feel humbled and incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to serve alongside the men and women of LMPD in the city I love.”
The Mayor added: “Rob has earned the respect of people throughout our city and beyond. He will make some city a fantastic permanent chief of police when he is ready to pursue that role.”
Former LMPD Deputy Chief Yvette Gentry has agreed to serve as Chief on an interim basis until a new permanent Chief is installed. She reported to work on Sept. 14th and has been working closely with Chief Schroeder to ensure a smooth transition in advance of his retirement.
Gentry, the first female chief in the department’s history, will be sworn in October 1. She did not apply for the permanent chief position and said she has no interest in serving longer than it takes to give a new Chief a successful transition period.
Metro Government has hired the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), a non-profit Washington, D.C.-based police research organization, to conduct a national search for a permanent chief. PERF has guided cities across the country on 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. For 30 years, PERF has identified the most skilled professionals in the field and assisted cities in recruiting and selecting well-qualified candidates.
More than 20 people applied by the Aug. 31 application deadline for the permanent Chief role. Since then Chief of Public Safety Amy Hess has been working with PERF to review, vet and sort the applicants, based on how their qualifications line up with those that the community helped create. A panel is now being convened to review the list, narrow it, conduct interviews, and identify top candidates who appear best suited to lead the LMPD. That process will also involve the community and LMPD by incorporating input previously collected, as well as an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates. Anyone interested in suggesting interview questions can email them to:LouisvilleChiefQuestions@policeforum.org.
Mayor Fischer is expected to name the new permanent Chief by the end of the year.
Louisville Metro Council News
Council ordinance limiting LMPD use of force won't restrict tear gas, other chemical agents
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville Metro Police Department can keep pepper balls and tear gas in its arsenal during civil unrest, after a move to limit the department's use of chemical agents was struck from a proposed local law.
The ordinance, sponsored by Louisville Metro Councilmembers Brandon Coan, D-8, and Jessica Green, D-1, originally prevented the use of chemical agents in LMPD's response to civil unrest "unless it is reasonable to believe an individual or a group of individuals is acting with the intent of causing physical injury or death to an officer or another person or persons, arson or rioting."
During an hour-long debate of the ordinance Wednesday, some Council members, including President David James, D-6, expressed concern with the proposed change before it was struck by the Council's Public Safety Committee.
But Coan, Green and others are still pushing the rest of the ordinance, which would limit how LMPD can use force in eight other ways.
Among other measures,the ordinance would:
Require officers to use de-escalation tactics, when possible, before using force.
Require officers to make a verbal announcement, when possible, before using force.
Bar officers from firing at or from a moving vehicle unless deadly force is used against them or others.
Bar officers from using chokeholds “for purposes of restraint.”
"These are use of force policies that are meant to be applied broadly across the community in every situation," Coan explained.
However, the changes are not a sure bet. Council Republicans and Democrats such as Mark Fox, who represents District 13, expressed concern.
"I just don't think it's the role of the Metro Council to get to deep in the weeds with the policy side," Fox said.
Fox, a retired LMPD officer, called the ordinance a piece of feel-good legislation, since the vast majority of policies are already part of LMPD’s standard operating procedure.
"It's not new news. I retired in 2015. Chokeholds were prohibited when I retired," he said. "Frankly, I just think it's a waste of legislative time. I think we could take our time and be more impactful."
Coan said that regardless of whether the goals are already policy, they should be codified into city law with the passage of an ordinance.
However, he and Green plan to give incoming LMPD Chief Yvette Gentry a chance to weigh in before putting the ordinance up for a vote. Gentry becomes chief on Thursday.
Coan said the Council might still consider a limit of chemical agents such as tear gas but would do so in a separate ordinance.
Councilwoman Shanklin announces drive thru COVID-19 testing for the people of District 2
Testing offered on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month beginning Sept. 28th
LOUISVILLE, KY – Councilwoman Barbara Shanklin (D-2) announces a new drive thru COVID 19 testing site will be available to the people of District 2 beginning on Monday, September 28th.
“It is important to make testing for COVID 19 available in as many places around the city as we can,” says Councilwoman Shanklin. “I hope the people of District 2 will take advantage of what is being offered. It’s convenient, easy to drive thru, and no appointment is necessary.”
The medical team administering the tests has been approved by Louisville Metro Government. This COVID-19 drive thru testing location is in partnership with Councilwoman Shanklin and the Newburg Church of Christ.
The COVID 19 testing is available on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. at 4700 East Indian Trail on the corner of Unseld Blvd. and East Indian Trail in the church’s parking lot.
Free COVID-19 Testing Available!
Plenty of COVID-19 testing available with faster results
LOUISVILLE, KY. (September 14, 2020) – Dr. Sarah Moyer, director of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness and Chief Health Strategist, says Louisville has greatly increased testing capacity for COVID-19 and results from tests are being delivered within 12 to 72 hours.
“COVID-19 testing capacity has greatly expanded in the past several weeks,” Dr. Moyer said. “There are more than 21 sites in Louisville open to the general public. Several of them are telling us they can test up to 300 people a day but only a small number are showing up to be tested. We are also seeing test results being delivered anywhere from 12 to 72 hours. Fast turn around times help us with getting important information to those who test positive through our care advocates and contact tracers. All of that works together to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.”
According to Dr. Moyer, here’s who should get tested for COVID-19:
Anyone with symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, headache, new loss of taste or smell, vomiting or diarrhea, sore throat, congestion or runny nose). Anyone experiencing symptoms is encouraged to contact their healthcare providerwho can also arrange testing.
Anyone who doesn’t have symptoms but has had recent or suspected exposure to someone who tested positive
Anyone who has attended gatherings of more than 10 people where social distancing and mask wearing was not being practiced such as Labor Day weekend activities, parties, and sporting activities.
“We are updating testing opportunities on our website weekly,” Dr. Moyer said. “Please check it frequently and get tested. Some of the testing locations require you to call or schedule online ahead of time. Some are drive thru and require no appointment. That information is on the website. If you don’t have access to the website, call us at 574-6520 and we can help you find a testing location.”
COVID-19 testing in the Buechel neighborhood continues
The Office for Globalization has partnered with the Public Health Department, the YMCA and Bluewater Labs to offer a new COVID-19 drive-thru/walk-up testing site for the public at the Southeast YMCA location in the Buechel neighborhood.
There is no need to pre-register or make an appointment, and all insurance is welcome. No one will be turned away, just bring a photo ID. Services are available in multiple languages. Free cloth facemasks and hand sanitizer will be available, and Census2020 will be on site to assist with completing your household census.
Starting September 14, regular testing will be available:
Every Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Every Friday from 1 to 7 p.m.
Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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.
Small business grant program receives additional $6.4 million
Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program has helped 560 businesses to date
LOUISVILLE, KY (September 25, 2020) – Louisville Forward has received an additional $6.4 million to help small businesses impacted by COVID-19 through its Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program.
The additional funds are unspent federal CARES dollars being carried forward from fiscal year 2020 into fiscal year 2021. Per current federal regulation, all CARES dollars must be spent by December 30, 2020.
"Louisville's small businesses make up the fabric of our community and employ thousands of Louisvillians. By helping sustain them through this pandemic, we are preserving part of who we are as a city,” said Mary Ellen Wiederwohl, chief of Louisville Forward.
Because of the pandemic, overall revenue among small businesses in Louisville has declined nearly 20 percent, according to Opportunity Insights, a non-partisan research and policy institute based at Harvard University.
“When talking to small business owners in Louisville, it is clear that the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program has been a lifeline for many of them as they continue to feel the financial strain of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are excited to receive the additional funding to help even more small businesses,” said Economic Development Director Rebecca Fleischaker. “I also want to thank our Small Business Team and Review Committee members for all of their hard work as we have moved quickly to get aid to businesses in need.”
As of today, Louisville Forward has helped 560 businesses affected by the global pandemic. Of the initial $21 million, $19.7 million has been granted, and of those grant dollars allocated, 26.7 percent has gone to minority-owned businesses, and 35.7 percent has been awarded to women-owned businesses.
There are already applications in the pipeline ready to be reviewed and voted on by the program’s six-person Review Committee. Without the new allocation, those applications totaling $1.18 million in requested funds would not have been able to receive funding through the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program. Even more applications are awaiting additional information or documentation.
Since its launch on July 1, 1,090 applications have been submitted by small businesses.
Businesses can use the funds to cover payroll, utilities, lease or mortgage payments, and fixed costs, such as interest on debt service and business insurance. Businesses without existing online platforms may also use grant dollars to support the implementation of new technology to allow for online sales.
Louisville Forward’s Small Business Team is administering the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program, and all grant applications are reviewed and voted on by the Review Committee during meetings streamed live on Develop Louisville’s Facebook page each Thursday at 2 p.m.
Louisville Metro Government releases proposed use of Third Round of COVID-19 Aid
Tuesday, Louisville Metro Government is released its proposed use of the third round of Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) funding. Specifically, this proposal includes projects to be undertaken with roughly $2.9 million dollars of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funds. These federal funds are allocated through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide supplemental funding to communities to address needs arising from the coronavirus pandemic.
There will be a 5-day public comment period on this amendment beginning Tuesday, September 29, 2020. Comments must be received no later than Monday, October 5, 2020, and may be submitted to:
LOUISVILLE, KY. (WDRB) – The Jefferson County Board of Education has approved Superintendent Marty Pollio’s proposal to extend distance learning at Jefferson County Public Schools with the possibility of gradually reopening classrooms if local COVID-19 numbers improve.
Pollio said that Jefferson County’s COVID-19 testing positivity and incidence rates will need to decline before he would suggest resuming in-person instruction.
“Right now we are going in the wrong direction,” Pollio said.
Jefferson County needs to be in or trend toward the yellow phase, or have no more than 10 new daily COVID-19 cases per 100,000 residents based on a seven-day average, before JCPS classrooms reopen, he said.
“We have to be confident that the trend is going down and it’s not just dipping into yellow for one day,” Pollio said, adding that the district “is not in a spot to make that recommendation when we are closer to red than we are to yellow.”
Jefferson County’s incidence rate was 20.7 new cases per 100,000 residents as of Tuesday, up from 16.8 when Pollio announced his recommendation on Friday, according to state data.
Jefferson County is squarely in the state’s orange phase of between 10 and 25 new cases per 100,000 residents.
The county’s COVID-19 testing positivity rate is 5.5% based on a two-week rolling average, according to the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness.
Pollio expects to present a detailed back-to-school plan to the board in mid-October, which may be coupled with a recommended start date if local COVID-19 cases decline, he said, noting that he wants up to two weeks for schools to prepare for reopening.
“I want to give every opportunity to get our kids back into school if the data shows us that,” he said. “We know our kids need it.”
If COVID-19 data improved locally, Pollio would set an Oct. 22 target date for elementary schools to reopen. A week later, sixth- and ninth-grade students would return, followed by fully reopening middle and high schools with alternating schedules on Nov. 2.
Board member James Craig, who represents District 3, said, "I appreciate that it seems like everyone’s thinking is based on public health data and not the multitude of opinions that are being flown our way."
Parents will be asked to choose between in-person and remote learning starting this week so schools can begin preparing instruction models, but parents will not be immediately locked into their choices, Pollio said, noting that the district expects between 30% and 50% of JCPS families will choose to enroll their children in virtual academies.
Chris Kolb, the board’s vice chair who represents District 2, lamented that more stringent actions hadn’t been taken to contain the spread of COVID-19 locally and statewide, such as stay-at-home orders.
“That’s the only way that kids are ever going to be able to go back to school,” Kolb said. “It makes me pretty angry, frankly, that people are able to go out to bars and restaurants with very little restrictions.”
“I think other governmental entities need to step up and do their part, much more than they are now,” he said. “I think it’s irresponsible that they haven’t to this point, and our kids and our community are going to pay a really steep price in the future by the hit to their education and social development that they’re taking right now.”
Once schools reopen, Pollio said the district will also monitor active COVID-19 cases and individuals quarantined at every JCPS school alongside the local coronavirus caseload.
Board member Linda Duncan, who represents District 5, said JCPS will be dealing with COVID-19 regardless of when classrooms reopen.
“When we move into yellow, moving into that category just means that we have maybe a better chance of doing this safely,” she said. “… There is nothing that says this is risk-free.”
Community invited to display purple lights as part of “Love in a New Light” campaign
LOUISVILLE, KY (October 1, 2020) - October is nationally recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month; a time to celebrate survivors, honor those who have died, raise awareness, and confirm our commitment to preventing intimate partner violence in our community.
To honor local victims of domestic violence in Kentucky and Southern Indiana, The Center for Women and Families (The Center) and Louisville Metro Office for Women (OFW) are partnering with local businesses and well-known landmarks in the area to help show “Love in a New Light”. Workplaces, residences, and other spaces are invited to display purple lights and hang purple hearts on doors and windows during October.
The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that 1.3 million women and 835,000 men are victims of physical violence by a partner every year. And according to the CDC, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience physical violence by their intimate partner at some point during their lifetimes.
Locally, LMPD's Victim Services Unit has provided support and advocacy services to 2,623 victims of domestic violence since its inception in 2016. The VSU supports crime victims and witnesses by helping them navigate the criminal justice system and by responding to their emotional, physical, and financial needs.
"Because domestic violence affects every part of our community, it requires a community response”, said Tina Ward-Pugh, director of the Office for Women, part of Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services. “The Love in a New Light campaign provides individuals and businesses an easy way to raise awareness and bring hope to survivors. You can become an #EverydayAdvocate by supporting The Center for Women and Families, participating in events, and sharing information."
If you or someone you know is involved in a violent situation, please call 911 or the Louisville Metro Police Department anonymous tip line at 574-LMPD (5673). Victims of domestic violence and sexual assault can also seek help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year through a toll-free crisis line: 1-844-BESAFE1 (237-2331). This number is staffed with certified domestic violence counselors trained to offer crisis counseling, support, referrals and other information about domestic violence.
Other ways to participate in Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month include following and sharing social media events posted by The Center (Facebook, and Twitter @TheCenterOnline) and OFW (Facebook @OFWLouisville), and by participating in the Everyday Advocate Virtual Luncheon on Oct. 9 at 12 p.m. by registering here. For more information, visit https://www.thecenteronline.org/ or https://louisvilleky.gov/government/office-women.
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 Management News
The Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue is open. 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.
Waste Disposal "Pop-Up Drop-Off" Events Continue - This month on Newburg Road!
Our first Pop-Up Drop-Off event was a success! Over 400 residents took advantage of this opportunity to properly dispose of large household items, electronic devices, yard waste, tires, documents, and prescription medication!
Separation is Key
The goal of these events is to recover as much material as possible through recycling and compost. It is important for residents to keep their material separated into the various categories so we keep recoverable material out of the landfill. For example, when yard waste is mixed in with other debris and "junk", the yard waste can't be composted.
Pop-Up Drop-Off events are free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County. These events will pop up around the county once per month, from March through November. The next event will be Saturday, October 24 at the Metro Fleet Services, 3515 Newburg Road. Learn more about what's accepted, not accepted, and event guidelines at our website www.Louisvilleky.gov/PopUps. Use the Recycle Coach app to receive notifications about future events or view them on the app calendar.
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
***Beginning in August, the food pantry began holding a second give-a-way day! Through December 2020, the pantry will be open for guests on both the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month from 10am - 12pm. Please visit us if you are in need!***
Upcoming Events at Newburg Library!
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We are pleased to announce that starting today, the Newburg, St. Matthews, and Shawnee libraries are now open for in-person public computer use by appointment. These three locations join the Main Library and Northeast, South Central, and Southwest regionals in offering in-person computer use and limited free printing and faxing services by appointment. Computer access islimited to one 90 minute session per day. To make an appointment, patrons should call their preferred participating location at the numbers listed below.
Main: (502) 574-1616
Newburg: (502) 479-6160
Northeast: (502) 574-1751
St. Matthews: (502) 574-1772
Shawnee: (502) 574-1722
Southwest: (502) 933-0029
South Central: (502) 964-3515
In order to reopen safely to in-person visits, library spaces and computer stations have been reconfigured to ensure safe physical distancing can be maintained. Enhanced cleaning protocols have been implemented and masks and temperature checks are required to enter library facilities. The Library will have masks available for patrons who arrive without them. The browsing of books and other materials is also not permitted at this time.
More information on computers by appointment can be found at 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
