Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 10/16/2020 01:56 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.
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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 was launched to allow Kentuckians to request a ballot by mail. Ballots could be requested through the portal through October 9, and through traditional means currently.
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.
NOTICE: An absentee drop-off box is available at the Jefferson County Clerk Election Center located at 701 W. Ormsby. Beginning October 13th additional drop-off boxes became available at the Kentucky Exposition Center, KFC Yum! Center, Kentucky Center for African American Heritage and the Louisville Marriott East. Drop-off boxes will be available at all voting locations on Election Day until 6:00 p.m.
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.
A MESSAGE FROM THE JEFFERSON COUNTY CLERK ** Voting Locations Approved **
The Secretary of State and State Board of Elections have approved the plan submitted by Jefferson County that provides twenty (20) vote centers throughout the county on Election Day. However, please understand the importance of voting early during the three weeks prior to Election Day at the four (4) early voting centers. This will help alleviate long lines and waits on Election Day and safeguard both your and the Election Officer's safety.
There are many variables to the election process, many of which go unconsidered by the average voter. Not every voter in Jefferson County receives the same ballot. Due to the number of small city races along with congressional, senate, legislative and metro council districts, there are 1520 ballot styles in Jefferson County. The vote centers were chosen based upon their ability to accommodate the space needed for the number of ballots, machines, voting booths, e-pollbooks (vote rosters) supplies and staff, as well as adequate parking for voters.
Listed below are all twenty (20) voting centers, which includes the four early voting centers. Voters may vote at any location regardless of their precinct. Early voting begins Tuesday, October 13th. You may also view a printable list here; 2020 General Election Information Sheet (pdf).
Any voter who has requested a mail-in absentee ballot may not vote in person. However, if a voter has requested but not received their mail-in absentee ballot by October 28, 2020, the voter may vote in person. Please visit our website for additional information. If you are unable to find the information you need, you may contact our Election Center at 574-6100, by e-mail at elections@jeffersoncountyclerk.org or countyclerk@jeffersoncountyclerk.org. You may also follow us on Facebook for information and updates; @JCCOKY
Early Voting & Election Day
Drop-off boxes will be available at all voting locations during voting hours
Kentucky Exposition Center DATE: October 13th through November 2nd ADDRESS: 937 Phillips Lane ~ Fairgrounds North Wing TIME: Monday through Saturday ~ 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ELECTION DAY: Tuesday, November 3rd ~ 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Free Parking)
KFC Yum! Center ~ Foyer DATE: October 13th through November 2nd ADDRESS: Main & 2nd Streets TIME: Monday through Saturday ~ 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ELECTION DAY: Tuesday, November 3rd ~ 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Free Parking)
Kentucky Center for African American Heritage DATE: October 13th through November 2nd ADDRESS: 1701 West Muhammad Ali Blvd TIME: Monday through Saturday ~ 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ELECTION DAY: Tuesday, November 3rd ~ 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Free Parking)
Louisville Marriott East DATE: October 13th through November 2nd ADDRESS: 1903 Embassy Square Blvd. ~ Commonwealth Ballroom TIME: Monday through Saturday ~ 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ELECTION DAY: Tuesday, November 3rd ~ 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Free Parking)
Election Day Only Voting Locations
Tuesday, November 3rd (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Ballard High School: 6000 Brownsboro Road
Carter Duvalle Elementary School : 3600 Bohne Avenue
Crosby Middle School: 303 Gatehouse Lane
Fairdale High School: 1001 Fairdale Road
Fern Creek HighSchool: 9115 Fern Creek Road
Iroquois High School: 4615 Taylor Boulevard
Jeffersontown High School: 9600 Old Six Mile Lane
Meyzeek Middle School: 828 S. Jackson Street
Seneca High School: 3510 Goldsmith Lane
Shawnee High School: 4001 Herman Street
Southern High School : 8620 Preston Highway
St. Matthews Community Center: 310 Ten Pin Lane
Thomas Jefferson Middle School: 1501 Rangeland Road
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.
Weekly COVID-19 update from the Department of Public Health and Wellness
LOUISVILLE, KY. (October 14, 2020) – After trending toward the Red alert status last week, Louisville’s COVID-19 cases are now at the Orange level, according to Mayor Greg Fischer and Public Health and Wellness Director Dr. Sarah Moyer.
An orange alert level includes a combination of data metrics, but most notably means there are 10-25 positive cases per 100,000 people per day, based on the most recent 7-day average.
Louisville’s current rate is 24.2 cases per 100,000 people per day. The prior week it was 24.9
Speaking during this week’s COVID-19 update on Tuesday, Dr. Moyer cautioned that while Louisville is at the Orange level, the city is treading dangerously close to the borderline of 25 cases per 100,000 that would move the city back to Red.
Mayor Fischer acknowledged that many are feeling “COVID-19 fatigue,” but he stressed that recent increases in cases nationally and locally are reminders that the virus is still here and still dangerous.
“As the numbers are showing, this virus is not ready to be over,” Mayor Fischer said. “It doesn’t take a day off. It’s not going to stop until we stop it. The goal is to get to the point where everyone is practicing the right things. So, it’s wearing masks, social distancing, avoiding crowded spaces.”
Being faithful to those measures is the only way to reverse the trends not just locally, but around the country, he said.
“This is something where we can’t look the other way,” he said. “We’ve got to come together and get this done.”
Here are the key data metrics for the week of October 13, 2020:
COVID-19 cases increased over the previous week for a total of 19,795 cases.
Louisville’s rolling two-week average positivity rate is at 7.2 percent.
Hospitalization data:
9.9% of patients currently hospitalized have COVID-19.
34 patients in ICU with COVID-19 as of October 13.
24 COVID-19 patients on ventilators as of October 13.
35.4 % of COVID-19 cases in Louisville are in the 15-34 age range. The CDC reported that young adults account for more than 20% of all confirmed cases in the U.S.
Cases continue to be in every Louisville ZIP code. There are higher case numbers in west and south Louisville among Black and Latino communities.
Dr. Moyer said the disproportionately high number of COVID cases in these areas illustrate the overall inequities within our current healthcare system.
Louisville and the Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness are working to alleviate some of the issues by offering more testing in impacted areas.
“We have over 21 sites available in every area of town, and especially in west Louisville,” Dr. Moyer said. “An important step in stopping the spread of COVID-19 is to know if you are positive or not.”
Dr. Moyer urged residents to get tested in order to make better informed decisions about their health.
“With cases continuing to rise and a vaccine still some time away, we all have to protect ourselves and others by avoiding crowded indoor spaces, wearing your mask and practicing social distancing,” Dr. Moyer said. “There’s complications with long-term effects of COVID-19 that we do not want people to experience.”
Local critical care doctor shares insights from treating COVID-19 patients
Dr. Sonia Compton, a pulmonary and critical care specialist treating COVID-19 patients in Louisville since the start of the pandemic, said there are common misconceptions and changing trends with the COVID pandemic.
One of the major changes in trends Dr. Compton has observed is the number of younger patients contracting COVID-19 with more prolonged and severity of illness.
“Early on, there was talk about older people with heart and lung disease and we’re seeing less of that,” she said, and more among people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s.
Dr. Compton shared her personal experiences with patients and described what can happen to even healthy people, based on the acute and long-term effects of COVID.
“I have one patient that had asthma, got admitted to the ICU and improved,” Dr. Compton said. “Now two-and-a-half months later, he has persistent shortness of breath and chest pains. Even though his CT scans and oxygen levels are better, he’s having these symptoms and is very limited in his activities daily.”
And while most healthcare systems in the area are opening post-COVID clinics, she said there’s no treatment for the lingering effects of COVID, she said.
Dr. Compton said a lack of caution and information are contributing factors in cases rising among the younger demographic. She added that some people feel that because cases are going up masks won’t work.
“It’s the opposite,” she said. “It’s when we ease up on any of the restrictions that the virus starts to spread. We know that masks work. There’s good data emerging that masks not only decrease transmission but may also contribute to a lower severity of illness. But they are mostly effective when used in conjunction with social distancing and staying away from gatherings of more than 10 people.”
First Responder Data
Currently, 63 members of LMPD, Louisville Fire, Metro EMS, Metro Corrections and the Sheriff’s Office are off-duty due to COVID-19:
35 are off with positive tests and in self-isolation
6 are off and quarantined due to exposure to someone who tested positive
22 are off with symptoms, pending test results
Positive test numbers for first responders/public safety since the incident began:
227 positive tests
192 have fully recovered and returned to duty
Metro Corrections inmate data: 3,647 inmates have been tested
9/29/2020: Gov. Beshear announced that under a new Official Order from Transportation Secretary Jim Gray, the mail-in and drop box options for driver's licenses were extended to licenses bearing an expiration date as late as Feb. 28, 2021, with all such renewals to be processed by March 31, 2021.
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.
Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund Website
FRANKFORT, KY. (Sept. 8, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced last month 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 Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020.
Gov. Beshear, who has taken repeated steps to keep people from being evicted at the height of the pandemic, also 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
Louisville sells $45 million in bonds for capital projects, despite challenging economic environment
LOUISVILLE, KY (October 14, 2020) – Louisville Metro Government (LMG) today sold $45 million of tax-exempt bonds to J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, with nationally recognized credit rating services Fitch, S&P Global Ratings, and Moody’s Investors Service providing the city bond ratings of AAA, AA, and Aa1, respectively.
Fitch’s AAA rating was based on their view that Louisville is “well positioned for the current downturn” and that it expects LMG “to manage through the current economic downturn while maintaining a strong level of fundamental financial flexibility.” S&P also cited a strong economy and strong management, while adding that it was lowering its rating from AA+ to AA due to “a challenging revenue climate and the pressure that we expect will come from absorbing perpetually larger pension contributions.”
The bond sale will provide long-term funding for capital projects from the FY19 and FY20 budgets that had been temporarily funded with a line of credit. The competitive sale generated bids from four companies and resulted in a True Interest Cost of 1.48 percent for the city.
“This has been a tough time for the country and for our city as we’ve confronted the COVID-19 public health pandemic, the resulting economic downturn, and our need to make greater investments in programs and initiatives to dismantle structural racism,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “I’m thankful to the many public servants who have helped us persevere and allowed us to maintain our sound financial footing.”
The bond proceeds will fund a variety of projects from the FY19 and FY20 capital budgets, including the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and ongoing maintenance and repair projects, such as street paving, sidewalks, bridges, parks, the Zoo, and Metro facilities.
Moody’s report cited a credit strength of a sizable and growing tax base, along with “strong management, conservative budgeting practices, and adherence to formal fiscal policies” in affirming its second highest rating of Aa1 with a stable outlook for Metro Louisville. Fitch and S&P also provided a stable outlook for the city’s credit rating.
On Thursday (Oct. 15), the city’s Chief Financial Officer, Daniel Frockt, will be providing an update on the sale and credit reports to the Metro Council Budget Committee.
Louisville Metro reduces annual ABC license renewal fees, waives fee for extended hours licenses
One-time fee changes will only affect businesses with on-site, by the drink licenses
LOUISVILLE, KY (October 14, 2020) – To help lighten the financial burden on restaurants, bars and other establishments where on-site alcohol consumption occurs, Louisville Metro’s Department of Codes and Regulations is granting a one-time reduction of the annual renewal fee for Alcohol and Beverage Control licenses by 25 percent and is waiving its annual renewal fees for extended hour licenses, a nearly $576,000 impact. This will not apply to packaged alcohol licenses.
All existing licenses also have been granted a no-cost extension until Monday, Nov. 30. Licensees must submit their license renewals to continue alcoholic beverage sales thereafter.
“Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and state-mandated shutdowns, some businesses have been unable to operate consistently and continue to face limitations on capacity and hours of operation. Charging for extended hour licenses that they cannot currently use would only add to the financial strains many of our small businesses are facing,” said Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer. “By lessening the annual renewal fee and waiving fees for the extended hour licenses, we hope to provide those businesses with additional relief.”
For any businesses that qualify for the discounted rate and have already renewed their annual license, the discounted rate will be applied to their next renewal. No refunds will be issued.
In Louisville, there are currently 916 establishments with licenses permitting on-site consumption, and of those, 429 also hold extended hours licenses. These businesses include restaurants, hotels, bars, breweries, convention centers and more.
Licenses permitting on-site consumption range in price from $200 to $2,000 per license depending on the type of business and alcohol served. They only permit alcohol sales until midnight.
Any business that wants to sell alcohol past midnight is required to hold a valid extended hours license. The cost of individual extended hours licenses for by-the-drink sales ranges from $50 to $2,000 depending on the type of alcohol an establishment serves and how late they’d like to stay open; some businesses have multiple extended hours licenses. A statewide executive order does not currently permit on-site alcohol sales after 11 p.m.
“Many of our local businesses continue to struggle from COVID-19 restrictions. Along with the small business grant program and other creative initiatives we’ve put in place since May, reducing and waiving ABC renewal fees is another way the city is helping ease the burden so many of our beloved local establishments are under right now,” said Mary Ellen Wiederwohl, chief of Louisville Forward.
This is the latest measure Louisville Metro Government has taken to help businesses during the pandemic. In July, Louisville Forward launched the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grants and has awarded $22 million in grants to 637 small businesses to date. Louisville Forward also recently launched a low-interest loan program for small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
In August, the Office of Advanced Planning and Sustainability introduced a new opportunity for restaurants to offer temporary outdoor dining expansions through the utilization of on-street parking spaces. This followed action in May by Louisville Forward and Louisville Metro Council to allow restaurants to setup or expand outdoor seating on private property or in a parking lot without meeting certain planning and zoning requirements. Restaurants with valid ABC license also were allowed to serve alcohol outside in the expanded dining without obtaining additional permitting.
The Department of Public Works also temporarily suspended application fees for restaurants seeking an encroachment permit to add or expand their outdoor seating on public property, including sidewalks, and the city waived Tent Permit fees.
Louisville Metro Council News
Council committee split on contract that includes LMPD pay raises
LOUISVILLE, KY. (WDRB) -- Along the edge of Jefferson Square Park, the coals glowed in Paul Gardner's grill as he casually charred chicken wings on a pleasant Tuesday afternoon.
He's been cooking for Louisville's protesters for months.
"How many days has it been? About 137?" he said as he flipped a batch of wings. "Well, I've missed about 37."
But on this day, his mind was focused on what was happening steps away inside City Hall. There, a council committee began considering a new union contract that includes a pay rise for many Louisville Metro Police officers. The short-term contract, which is the result of two years of negotiations between the city and River City FOP Lodge 614, would raise the starting pay for LMPD officers.
The contract also includes changes from the Breonna Taylor settlement, such as a $5,000 housing incentive for officers to live in the communities they patrol.
At the grill, though, Gardner had hesitations about the contract.
"I feel they deserve a raise, yes, because they do work hard, and they've been killed too. They've been shot too. Their job is dangerous," he said. "But also, they need to have some better training. That's what I want them to put in that contract."
His hesitations mirrored some that surfaced inside city hall Tuesday as the Metro Council Labor and Economic Development committee began considering the contract, which will have to be ratified by council to become official.
Council members like Bill Hollander, D-9; Keisha Dorsey, D-3; Paula McCraney, D-7; Brandon Coan, D-8; and others expressed their concerns.
"Full accountability is not just missing from this contract, the document expressly exempts the police from personal responsibility in at least a half dozen different, dangerous ways," said Coan.
While those council members seemed to agree that LMPD officers are worthy of raises, some of them argued the new contract should be put on hold or even sent back to the drawing board to be re-negotiated until it includes significant reforms too.
"And without being able to recruit qualified officers, we will not be able to maintain public safety going forward," Nichols told the committee.
Councilman Anthony Piagentini, R-19, underscored Nichols' argument.
"Currently, we have a recruit class that we normally seat 48 candidates, and right now, it has 17 candidates in there," Piagentini said.
Piagentini, Nichols and Interim LMPD Chief Yvette Gentry said more police reforms can be discussed later, after the contract is ratified by Metro Council.
But to Keisha Dorsey, a councilwoman and frequent protester outside at Jefferson Square, waiting is unacceptable.
"As a Black woman, as a Black legislator, I am tired of being told to wait," said Dorsey, D-3.
At the end of the meeting Tuesday, council decided to table the contract until more questions can be answered and concerns addressed. Dorsey said it should remain tabled until the public gets a chance to weigh in as well.
"This isn't about the FOP. This isn't about unions," she said. "This is about people. And this contract impacts people, and it should be a very people-centric procedure."
Others, however, say the raise should be passed now, as LMPD struggles to keep and recruit officers. Ryan Nichols, President of the FOP, described the loss of recruits and current officers to resignations or retirements as a "dire" trend that ultimately leave the department with zero qualified recruits.
President James announces Historic City Hall Clock Tower is glowing purple for Domestic Violence Awareness Month
COVID-19 is an extra concern of those affected by domestic violence
Louisville – President David James (D-6) has announced than the Historic City Hall Clock Tower is glowing purple for the month of October to bring awareness to Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Louisville and across the country. This year, COVID-19 has heightened the concern for victims of domestic violence.
“As we know, COVID-19 has forced many of us to stay at home to fight the disease. But sometimes, victims of domestic violence may be at a greater risk because of the violent ways of a partner. It is our hope, the Clock Tower will serve as a reminder that domestic violence is unacceptable. Love shouldn’t hurt,” says President James.
In KY, domestic violence affects over 37% of women and 31% of men in their lifetime. In the US, an average of 20 people every minute experience physical abuse by a partner, this adds up to roughly 10 million people every year.
“As we will light the Clock Tower purple in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, please remember if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and needs to seek help, organizations like the Center for Women and Families offer refuge, comfort, and programs to help the victims of domestic violence,” says President James.
To learn more about the programs offered by the Center for Women and Families go to: https://www.thecenteronline.org/ or call 1-844-Be-Safe-1 (1-844-237-2331).
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 COVID-19 Relief Loan Program
The Department of Economic Development is now accepting applications for a new low-interest loan program, the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Loan Program. The $2.8 million loan fund is designed to assist small businesses impacted by COVID-19 and aims to meet businesses’ immediate cash flow needs quickly through a shortened application process and additional meetings of the METCO Board, the oversight body that will approve the loans.
The Small Business COVID-19 Relief Loan Program was created using grant funds recently awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration.
Through the new program, small businesses can receive a 66-month loan of up to $50,000, with no payments and zero interest for the first six months and 2 percent interest starting in month seven. There will be no prepayment penalty for early payoff.
The loan funds must be used for expenses that will sustain the business and be directly related to the impact of COVID-19.
In order to qualify the business must:
Be located in Louisville/Jefferson County, Kentucky
Be in good standing with Louisville Metro Revenue Commission and Kentucky Secretary of State
Show no more than $2.5 million annual revenue in previous year
Demonstrate that there was negative impact due to COVID-19
Clear narrative explaining loss of revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic
If approved, the borrower must agree to receive financial coaching within 90 days of closing and will be required to report proof of fund usage on a quarterly basis for the life of the loan.
Eligibility to apply requires that you agree to the following statements:
My business is located in Louisville/Jefferson County, Kentucky
My business revenue does not exceed $2.5 million annually
Click here to complete the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Loan application.
Community input needed for full-scale equity review of Land Development Code
Review aims to reform land use regulations and policies using a racial equity lens
LOUISVILLE, KY (October 16, 2020) – Residents’ feedback and suggestions are needed as Louisville Metro conducts a full-scale review of the Land Development Code (LDC) to identify and correct inequitable land use regulations and policies within the code.
The LDC is a set of rules that regulates development and what can be done with private property. Many elements within the LDC have not been revised since the early 1960s and continue to incorporate discriminatory policies first introduced in 1931.
“While racist regulations remain on our books, we cannot fully move toward creating a more equitable city for our marginalized communities,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “This review will provide residents an opportunity to pinpoint land use regulations and practices that have negatively impacted their lives, as well as recommend changes they’d like to see made to the Land Development Code.”
The community meetings will be held:
Saturday, Oct. 24 at 10 a.m.
Monday, Oct. 26 at 10 a.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 6 p.m.
Residents can watch and submit comments or questions via Facebook Live on the Develop Louisville page, or via WebEx online or by phone. For details about how to attend the different meetings, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/ldcreform.
Those who cannot attend one of the three meetings can ask questions or submit comments by emailing LDCreform@louisvilleky.gov or calling the LDC reform hotline at (502) 574-4737.
The review is the continuation of a process that started with the adoption of our 20-year comprehensive plan, Plan 2040, in 2018 and the release of the Housing Needs Assessment and Advancing Equity Report in early 2019. These documents laid the groundwork by identifying deficiencies, potential actions and what we want Louisville to be.
In advance of the review, Louisville Metro also contracted Berkley-based architecture and urban design firm Opticos Design to conduct a diagnostic report of the city’s housing and related land use regulations that affect residents inequitably. The report was completed in July 2020.
Metro Council passed a resolution on Aug. 20 requesting the LDC review and the drafting of recommendations for more equitable and inclusive development. Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services staff is leading the review effort.
“Examining the Land Development Code through the lens to equity is a big step in the right direction of insuring that all of our citizens are treated fairly, regardless of their ZIP code,” said Metro Council President David James, D-6.
Following the meetings, Planning and Design Services staff will draft a list of recommended policy changes and amendments to the LDC, which will be reviewed by the Planning Commission, Metro Council and other legislative bodies that have zoning authority in Jefferson County. Before any recommendations are adopted, the Planning Commission will host a public hearing for residents to provide additional comments.
While some recommendations may go before the Planning Commission for consideration within a few months, the process will continue well beyond that with additional recommendations possibly being made over the next couple of years.
Like many of you, there is nothing we want more than to have students and staff back in our school buildings. But we won’t do that until we know it is safe for our students, their families and our employees.
As we closely review the data and trends of COVID-19 cases in our city, it is not possible to safely begin our return-to-school on October 22nd, as we had hoped. When we see a significant reduction in the number of cases, we will consult local and state health officials and make a determination about when we can safely return to in-person instruction.
JCPS wants to assure families that a plan is in place to safely reopen our schools when the data supports that decision. An updated and detailed plan for a safe return to in-person classes will be discussed at our Board of Education meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 20 at 6:30 p.m. Our updated planning document will be available on our website today.
You have been patient, understanding and cooperative during this time and we thank you for your support of JCPS!
Sincerely,
JCPS Communications
Louisville Food Service Manager Certification Course available online
LOUISVILLE, KY. (October 12, 2020) – The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is offering its Food Manager Certification Course online.
In 1989, the Jefferson County Fiscal Court established an ordinance outlining procedures for the training and certification of Food Service Managers – any person that directs, conducts or supervises a food service establishment. In order for food service establishments to conduct business, at least one Food Service manager has to hold a valid current certificate issued by the Louisville and Jefferson County Board of Health and be on the premises during hours of operation.
The State Food Safety course will incorporate a full audiovisual interactive learning experience with question-and-answer segments. Instruction will also be able to facilitate the needs of those with hearing, and vision loss and learning disabilities.
“Knowledge is power, and this course provides individuals with the knowledge necessary to reduce risks and behaviors that are most associated with foodborne illness,” Kelly Monahan, Environmental Health Manager at Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness. “There is also a legal requirement for Food Service Establishments to have a Certified Food Manager on duty during all hours of operation. The ability to provide two options really helps to advance food safety in Louisville Metro.”
Course Details:
Cost is $35.00
Approximately two hours in length. Individuals can start and stop as needed.
Compatible on computers, tablets, Android and iOS smartphone devices.
Objectives will include safe food handling, cross-contamination prevention and proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures.
Comes with one year of unlimited access to the training videos
Individuals will still have the option to take the in-person class at reduced capacity at Marth Gregory and Associates.
Participants in the course will need a grade of 70 percent to successfully complete the course. Upon completion you will be able to print your certificate or send email to your inbox for printing. The certification is valid for three years.
Information about Food Safety, guidelines, permits and safety services can be found here. To view the Jefferson Fiscal Court Ordinance, click here. The Food Safety program can be reached at 502-574-6650. Customer Service for State Food Safety can be reached at 807-494-1416.
Office of Advanced Planning and Sustainability Updates
Cool Roof Rebates Still Available
The Office of Advanced Planning and Sustainability's Cool Roof Rebate Program still has funding available for properties located in targeted high-heat areas, including Metro Council Districts 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 12, 14 and 15. The program aims to combat urban warming and reduce cooling costs for districts significantly impacted by Louisville's urban heat island. The rebate provides up to $1 per square foot of cool roof that is installed with an ENERGY STAR roofing product. Rebates are available for both residential and commercial buildings and offered on a first come, first serve basis.
Curious where previous cool roof installations have taken place in Louisville? Check out this new ArcGIS dashboard to find out more.
Know Waste Louisville Webinar Series
Louisville Metro's Waste Management District is continuing its "Know Waste" virtual webinar series to educate residents on recycling, food waste reduction, and reusing and repurposing products. Webinars will be offered every Thursday at 3pmfrom October 22nd to November 19th. To register, click here.
Louisville Earth Walk
The Louisville Earth Walk, a non-competitive community event including a live 5k walk, at-home participation and virtual programming, is moving to Cherokee Park for its fourth year on Saturday, October 24th, 2020.
We invite you to join in support of a city-wide vision where every neighborhood has safe and clean water, air, and soil. This family-friendly event will celebrate our beautiful planet while raising both awareness and funds for the wonderful organizations in our city that work to protect and improve the quality of life for all of us.
For more information on how to register, click here.
Louisville Sustainability Summit
The Louisville Sustainability Council has officially announced the agenda for the 2020 annual Louisville Sustainability Summit! Taking place virtually on November 14th from 12-4pm, the summit will focus on the theme: "Climate Crossroads: the Intersections of Climate and Social Justice."
This year, you will have the opportunity to hear from internationally-recognized climate justice leader Elizabeth Yeampierre, as well as a panel of local, regional, and national speakers with diverse backgrounds to speak about issues of race, health, and equity in relation to climate change.
To check out the full lineup of speakers and register for your ticket, click here.
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
