Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 11/13/2020 03:08 PM EST
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
***November 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
STAY CONNECTED:
CLICK HERE OR CALL 574-LMPD (5673) TO SUBMIT A CRIME TIP
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; Switched on 10/19/2020 to electronic laboratory reports as the sole source of data for the positivity rate. Learn more about how KDPH determines the Statewide Positivity Rate. Note: Data includes cases of COVID-19 reported to KDPH.
COVID-19 message from the Department of Public Health and Wellness
LOUISVILLE, KY (October 29, 2020) – The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness and Lacuna Health has increased staffing for its COVID-19 Helpline to even more quickly provide support and answers to residents and businesses with questions about COVID-19 – and to initiate the contact tracing process among those testing positive for the virus.
Louisville is in the red alert level status which means there are more than 25 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 residents daily. On Tuesday, Public Health officials announced the city added 1,888 new cases.
Metro’s Contact Tracing team is available to answer the hotline 24 hours a day, 7 days, and bilingual team members and language translation services are available. The number is 502-912-8598.
Karen Handmaker, a population health expert and former executive at IBM Watson Health, who is overseeing the city’s contact tracing and helpline efforts, said it is important that people who test positive reach out to the contract tracing team, because as many as 40 percent of positive COVID-19 test results the department receives have no contact information.
“We can’t call to check on someone who has recently tested positive if we don’t have a phone number,” Handmaker said. “We encourage anyone who has recently tested positive to please call the helpline. Our contact tracers and care advocates want to make sure you get the care you need, have what you need to safely isolate and quarantine, and answer any questions you have.”
Handmaker said the COVID-19 Helpline is also helpful for businesses. “Our care advocates can provide helpful guidance and information to businesses who have an employee test positive,” she said.
Residents, businesses and employees are encouraged to reach out to the LOU HEALTH HELPLINE (502-912-8598) if:
They or a family member has tested positive and needs to know their next steps;
They are waiting for a test result and aren’t sure what to do;
They were in close contact with someone who tested positive and need guidance;
They have questions about safely isolating, quarantining;
They’ve test positive and want to ensure others they’ve been in contact with are notified of their risks by contract tracers.
COVID-19 is spreading rapidly in Louisville, city is stepping up safety measures
LOUISVILLE, KY. (November 10, 2020) – During the city’s update on COVID-19 in Louisville today, Mayor Greg Fischer and Public Health and Wellness Director Dr. Sarah Moyer stated that with Louisville’s COVID-19 case counts significantly increasing, extreme action is needed by everyone to stop the spread.
Jefferson County has surpassed 2,000 weekly COVID positive cases in the past two consecutive weeks.
Voicing her concerns of the city nearing record highs of COVID spread, Dr. Moyer said, “I want to make this clear: everyone in our community is at risk for catching COVID-19 or spreading it to your friends, family or coworkers if you let your guard down.
“We must renew and strengthen our commitment to fight this virus together. I know so many of you are doing the right thing. You have been sacrificing to protect yourselves but also because you care about others. Please don’t give up the fight. Stay strong. We can do this. But it will take all of us.”
“COVID-19 is a threat to our community, and it’s a threat that each of us need to take more seriously than we have been,” said Mayor Fischer. “We are in the ‘red zone’ again this week. As we look ahead to the holidays and family gatherings, we have to factor COVID-19 into our plans, or we are potentially putting ourselves and our families in serious danger.”
Here are the key data metrics for the week of November 10:
There were 2,300 new cases over the previous week.
Louisville’s rolling two-week average positivity rate is at 6.8 percent.
Hospitalization data:
16% of patients currently hospitalized have COVID-19.
66 patients in ICU with COVID-19 as of November 10, an increase from 58 the week prior.
40 COVID-19 patients on ventilators as of November 10, compared to 34 last week.
COVID-19 cases are in every Louisville ZIP code, with nearly all at the red alert level.
Largest increase in cases remains in those ages of 15-34.
Given the high level of community spread, any interaction with members outside your household leaves you at greater risk of bringing an infection home. Once one person is infected in a household, they are likely to spread it to other members.
As the amount of COVID spread in the community continues on an upward trajectory, Dr. Moyer issued her recommendations on how residents must adapt to break the chain of transmission. They included reducing all contact with people who you do not live with including refraining from attending bars, events such as parties, weddings, funerals, sports practices and other gatherings.
“Simply put, in order to stop COVID-19 from spreading so rapidly, we need to severely limit where we go and who we are around,” she said. “With the record number of cases weekly, no indoor activity is safe from COVID.”
Updated Compliance Strategy
Due to the uncontrolled outbreak and increasing spread of COVID-19 cases across Jefferson County, Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness is expanding compliance and enforcement activity across Louisville.
“We want our community to know we are taking it seriously. COVID is the primary concern that we have in our community that is affecting our public health right now,” said Nick Hart, Environmental Health Manager.
According to Hart, environmentalists will quadruple the amount of time spent during evening, late-night and weekend surveillance, focusing on peak operation hours. Hart noted these are crucial periods where large numbers of people often congregate in shared spaces.
Additionally, inspectors will be observing businesses that are serving the public on a regular basis. Businesses will not know who is in attendance conducting surveillance, but could get a follow-up email or phone call afterward if a violation is observed.
“We’re not trying to disrupt businesses, but we are trying to get a realistic idea of what it looks like during the times we see people out in our community,” he said.
Hart said Public Health and Wellness plans to publish a violation list on its website for the public to see who is not complying with Healthy at Work or face-covering guidelines.
COVID Care Kits aim to alleviate stress for those in self-isolation
The Department of Public Health and Wellness Center for Health Equity has been working to increase support for residents affected by the virus.
Rebecca Hollenbach, Executive Administrator at the Center for Health Equity, said asking people to partake in new behaviors like self-isolating for 10 days or more can prove difficult.
To improve that experience, care kits are being distributed to individuals in Jefferson County who have tested positive and in the city’s contact tracing system. Care packages include educational resources, medical resources and items for self-care.
“This is a gift of support from us to you to thank you for everything you’re doing to help keep yourself, your family and your community safe,” Hollenbach said.
First Responder Data
Currently, 116 members of LMPD, Louisville Fire, Metro EMS, Metro Corrections and the Sheriff’s Office are off-duty due to COVID-19:
54 are off with positive tests and in self-isolation
34 are off and quarantined due to exposure to someone who tested positive
28 are off with symptoms, pending test results
Positive test numbers for first responders/public safety since the incident began:
322 positive tests
269 have fully recovered and returned to duty
Metro Corrections inmate data:
Total Tested = 4040
Total Positive = 251
Total Recovered = 236
Total currently under medical isolation = 15
Total pending = 0
The city’s COVID-19 data dashboard, a complete list of COVID-19 testing sites, information on symptoms, prevention and contact tracing can be found at www.louisville.gov/covid19. The LOU HEALTH COVID19 Helpline is also available: 502-912-8598.
Since the first case of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was confirmed in Kentucky, Governor Beshear taken the following actions:
10/19/2020: The Kentucky Public Service Commission is ending its moratorium on disconnections for nonpayment for the utilities it regulates on Oct. 20. To ensure there are protections when that begins, the Governor signed an executive order today that ends the statewide moratorium on disconnections for nonpayment on Nov. 6, but takes additional steps to help Kentuckians.
The executive order designates $15 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds for the Healthy at Home Utility Relief Fund, which will provide relief for Kentuckians at risk of natural gas, water, wastewater or electric service disconnection.
The order will also require utilities to create a payment plan for residential customers that runs no less than six months. It will continue to waive late fees on utility bills for residential customers through Dec. 31, 2020.
*Kentuckians can find additional assistance paying for utilities through the funds and organizations listed here.
10/16/2020: The Kentucky Department for Public Health, an agency of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, announced an initial, comprehensive draft plan for distributing the COVID-19 vaccine to local health departments and health care organizations.
Gov. Beshear: 94 Red Zone Counties Need to Act Now
Other states facing shortages of hospital beds, health care workers; adding mobile morgues
FRANKFORT, KY. (Nov. 12, 2020) – On Thursday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced 94 red zone counties and implored Kentuckians to follow red zone recommendations and school recommendations, as other states reach frightening milestones in our nationwide battle against COVID-19. Texas alone has surpassed 1 million cases; El Paso, Texas, is doubling its supply of mobile morgues; the Mayo Clinic Health System is reporting that 100% of its hospital beds are full in northwestern Wisconsin; and North Dakota is allowing COVID-19-positive health care workers to continue working in COVID-19 wings because of a significant health care worker shortage.
“Remember, what this is supposed to do is provide a way for communities to come together to stop the virus,” said Gov. Beshear. “The biggest employer in Franklin County is the state government, and we will be following the red zone recommendations next week. Anybody who can work virtually is going to work virtually. Any service that can be done virtually will be. We are going to live up to what we’re asking other people to do.”
Gov. Beshear also shared good news with Kentuckians.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now says masks protect both the wearer and those around them from COVID-19 and reduce the risk of transmitting or catching the virus by more than 70% in various instances.
Three partner agencies of Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) have been awarded $1.4 million from the Coronavirus Relief Fund to assist with services that support prevention of abuse and domestic violence. To see the full release, click here.
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
COVID-19 status: Red
Mayor Fischer and Public Health & Wellness leaders are urging every resident to abide by Gov. Andy Beshear’s guidelines for communities such as Louisville in the “red zone” for COVID-19, which continues to spread rapidly throughout the city.
In addition, city leaders are calling on residents to consider the risks of the deadly virus before making holiday plans with people who reside outside their own home. “We have to factor COVID-19 into our plans, or we are potentially putting ourselves and our families in serious danger,” the Mayor said.
Watch the briefing on Tuesday here, and see details here.
On Saturday, the Mayor joined residents to celebrate military veterans, active duty service members and their families during a “parade in reverse” at Southeast Christian Church campus on Blankenbaker Road. See MetroTV’s story.
Eviction assistance
The Mayor reminds residents of eviction assistance programs available through Louisville Metro Government and partners. Eviction assistance was also recently the subject of an episode of the Mayor’s podcast. Learn more about assistance here, and listen to the podcast here.
Louisville Metro streamlines process for eviction prevention assistance programs
To date, programs have assisted 6,199 residents
LOUISVILLE, KY (October 21, 2020) – Mayor Greg Fischer today announced that Louisville Metro Government has removed the income requirement for all of its eviction prevention assistance programs in an effort to streamline the application process for all applicants. The income requirement has been replaced with a maximum cap on monthly rental assistance.
Eligible residents can now receive a maximum of $1,750 per month in rental assistance for up to six months. The amount of assistance will continue to be determined based on applicants’ individual rental rates and amount of back rent owed, and all other requirements will remain in place, including proof of COVID-19 impact and notice of overdue payment or pending eviction case.
“We’re making this change to streamline the intake process to get help to our residents facing eviction more quickly. So many tenants have accumulated rent debt due to previous COVID-19-related unemployment, and while some may have regained employment, they’re still in a catch-22 where they might never be able to get caught up on their rent payments and stabilize their household without assistance,” said Mayor Fischer.
“Thank you to our teams at Louisville Metro’s Office of Housing and Office of Resilience and Community Services, as well as our many partners, who are working every day to connect residents to resources,” he added.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people from all neighborhoods and walks of life. While we work to control the spread of COVID-19, we must also tackle the economic fallout the pandemic has created in our community,” said Metro Council President David James. “Providing assistance to Louisvillians facing eviction is a critical part of stabilizing our economy and preventing a wave of homelessness.”
This summer, Louisville Metro Government allocated $21.2 million in federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, & Economic Security) Act money toward eviction prevention assistance. The city has established a program to assist individuals, the Eviction Prevention for Households Program, through the Office of Resilience and Community Services, as well as a program that allows landlords of subsidized units to apply for assistance on behalf of their tenants, the Landlord Tenant Rental Assistance Program, through the Office of Housing.
In addition, the Office of Housing has partnered with the court system and Legal Aid Society on the Eviction Diversion Pilot Program, which acts as a backstop for eviction as cases enter the court system. As of Oct. 16, the three programs have allocated $5.4 million, assisting 3,246 households and 6,199 total residents in Jefferson County.
Recently, Louisville Metro also reallocated $3 million from the Landlord Tenant Rental Assistance Program for external agency agreements with the Coalition for the Homeless and the Association of Community Ministries to administer eviction prevention programs.
“Secure and safe housing is the most basic need and right of every Louisvillian, and the expansion of the eviction prevention program is not only important, but essential,” said Councilwoman Keisha Dorsey, D-3. “There is unprecedented need at this time that spans beyond race, socioeconomic status and geography. This program is the very best for anyone facing their worst, and it shows we are a compassionate Louisville.”
On Aug. 25, Gov. Andy Beshear rescinded an executive order suspending residential evictions for failure to pay rent and replaced it with a new order requiring landlords to provide at least 30 days’ notice to tenants that they plan to evict for failure to pay rent. Under the order, landlords cannot apply penalties, late fees or interest related to non-payment of rent from March 6 to Dec. 31, 2020.
In addition to the other eviction prevention programs, the Office of Resilience and Community Services has distributed more than $2.8 million raised through the One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund to landlords and/or utility companies on behalf of 3,324 households.
Louisville Metro also has allocated $5.5 million in funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) toward eviction prevention and housing stabilization for low-income and homeless persons.
For information about all the resources and services available to those facing eviction, visit StopMyEviction.org
Speed hump construction and installation set to be completed by November 16th
The construction and installation of speed humps on several neighborhood streets in the Newburg community is set to be completed by this coming Monday, November 16nd. This long-awaited project was funded by Councilwoman Shanklin and her District 2 office in June of this year; signage and marking for the new speed humps was competed in September. The streets receiving speed humps in this round of installations are: Brenda Dr., Cedrus Cir., Oaklawn Ln., Unseld Blvd. continuing into part of Garden Green Way, and one additional hump on Shasta Trl.
Do you and your neighbors want speed humps on your street?
If you and your neighbors have noticed a high number of speeders on your street and would like to be considered for speed hump installation, please contact the District 2 Council office at (502) 574-1102 or via email at Barbara.Shanklin@louisvilleky.gov. Assuming that your street is eligible (must be Metro owned/must be long enough to support speed humps/etc.), after speaking with a representative from our office you will be asked to collect signatures (with individual names and addresses) from all of your neighbors that live on the street that is requesting the installation of speed humps. At least 70% of all of the residents currently living on the street requesting speed humps must provide their signature/address in support in order for the street to be considered by Public Works.
Upon completion of this signature page, the original document must be given to Councilwoman Shanklin or Legislative Assistant Caleb Howard personally, or sent to our office at City Hall (601 W. Jefferson St., First Floor, 40202; ATTN: Barbara Shanklin/Caleb Howard). As soon as the signature document is received, LA Howard will deliver it to Public Works, and that department will survey the street to determine whether or not speed humps will be appropriate to install--assuming Public Works signs off on the request, Councilwoman Shanklin will make the final determination with regards to moving forward with the installation or not.
Councilwoman Shanklin offers drive thru Flu/Pneumonia/Shingles shots for the people of District 2
On Monday, November 23rd, flu, pneumonia, and shingles shots will be available and administered by professionals from Kroger's pharmacy at 4700 East Indian Trail (Newburg Church of Christ) in the parking lot from 2:00pm to 5:00pm. This is a change from the past month where shots were available from 10:00am to 1:00pm in an effort to better reach those individuals that were unavailable at the earlier time. This will be a one-time change in timing, and will potentially be the last event of this type held in D-2 until January--so if you or someone you know needs one of these vaccinations, now is the time to plan to get it!
Councilwoman Shanklin and her District 2 office have allocated $4,999.00 in funding to help residents cover their insurance co-pays for any of these three vaccinations. To this point, about half of the funding remains; it will continue to be used to pay for residents' co-pays until it is depleted. In order have the best opportunity to have your co-pay covered by the remaining funding, it is advisable to plan on arriving to the event earlier rather than later--also, don't forget your insurance card/information!
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.
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 helps 824 Louisville businesses
Louisville Forward distributes $27.1 million in COVID-19 relief grants
LOUISVILLE, KY (November 13, 2020) – Through Louisville Forward’s Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program, 824 small businesses have received grant dollars, totaling $27.1 million to help mitigate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In total, 1,286 applications were received from small businesses since Louisville Forward began accepting grant applications on July 1.
“I am proud of the work that our Small Business Team has done to preserve the hundreds of small businesses that make Louisville unique,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “And I continue to urge Congress to return to the negotiating table and pass additional relief measures to aid our nation’s small businesses. It is clear that more assistance is needed as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic and weather the resulting economic impacts.”
Because of the pandemic, overall revenue among small businesses in Louisville has declined 25.8 percent compared to January 2020, according to Opportunity Insights, a non-partisan research and policy institute based at Harvard University. Nationally, small business revenue has declined 23.2 percent.
Businesses seeking relief grants requested between $845 and $50,000; the average approved grant amount was $32,888. Businesses receiving the relief grant are located in every council district in Jefferson County. Of the grant dollars awarded, 28% percent went to minority-owned businesses, and 33.8 % percent went to women-owned businesses.
A volunteer Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Review Committee, composed of small business leaders from the community, held its last meeting to review and vote grant applications on November 12. Current federal regulations regarding the CARES dollars that fund the program require that all expenses paid for by the grant funds be incurred by December 30.
In this fiscal year’s budget approved by Metro Council in late June, $21 million in federal CARES dollars were appropriated to Louisville Forward for the creation of the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program. In late September, Louisville Forward received an additional $6.1 million for the program. The additional funds were unspent federal CARES dollars carried forward from fiscal year 2020.
In addition to the grant program, two new low-interest loan programs were launched this year specifically targeted toward businesses impacted by COVID-19.
In mid-September, Louisville Forward launched the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Loan program, providing small businesses affected by the pandemic with low-interest 66-month loans of up to $50,000. Since then, the METCO Board has awarded nearly $1 million in loans to 23 small businesses from the $2.8 million revolving loan fund.
Shortly after the start of the pandemic, Louisville Forward worked with LHOME, Render Capital, Greater Louisville Inc., and Lenderfit to start the Small Business Continuity Loan Fund Program. LHOME, a Louisville-based community development financial institution, administered the program, which gave zero-interest loans of up to $25,000 to Louisville’s smallest businesses impacted by COVID-19.
LHOME has approved loans totaling $1.5 million to 68 local businesses.
Site Selection magazine ranks Louisville No. 1 in the Ohio River Corridor for economic development
Louisville named top region ahead of Cincinnati, Pittsburgh
LOUISVILLE, KY (November 5, 2020) – Louisville’s ability to attract new companies and help existing ones grow has earned it first place in Site Selection’s annual Ohio River Corridor rankings.
“Louisville continues to be a great place to do business, and we are working every day to improve our economy for all Louisvillians, particularly those who’ve historically been left behind,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “Thank you to our Economic Development Team at Louisville Forward for all their hard work.”
The magazine, whose readership includes CEOs, corporate real estate executives, human resource managers and consultants, ranked the areas by examining corporate facility project data on an overall and per-capita basis during an 18-month period, extending from 2019 into this past summer. The ranking looks at regions that abut the Ohio River.
During the first three quarters of 2020, Louisville has tallied 30 located projects, adding 1,253 jobs and representing $253.2 million in new investment.
“This recognition and the investment we continue to see in Louisville are signs of the ongoing strength of the local economy,” said Mary Ellen Wiederwohl, Chief of Louisville Forward. “Although we are still tackling challenges around the COVID-19 pandemic and how to create a better, stronger and more equitable economy, Louisville’s cost competitiveness and strength in key economic growth sectors like advanced manufacturing, logistics, healthcare and technology continue to make our city an attractive place to do business.”
Louisville beat out the Greater Cincinnati region and Owensboro, Ky., which ranked second and third respectively, as well as Pittsburgh, which ranked sixth. Earlier this year, Louisville Forward also was recognized for the sixth year in a row as a 'Top Economic Development Group' by Site Selection magazine, and in 2019, the city also was named a 'Top Metro' in the South Central and East North Central regions.
In an article about the Ohio River Corridor rankings, Site Selection cites the attraction and growth of software group Bastian Solutions, health and aging innovation network Aging 2.0, UPS Worldport, and Eurofins, a high-end logistics, genetics testing and food testing company, as markers of Louisville’s positive trajectory.
The article also notes the success of Louisville’s 20-year-old Metro College workforce training and higher education partnership and new tech upskilling initiatives aimed at addressing the need for more tech talent and increasing opportunities for our city’s low-income residents.
In addition to the Ohio River Corridor rankings, the Louisville & Jefferson County Riverport Authority tied the city of San Jose, Illinois International Port District in Chicago, and the Board of Harbor Commissioners of the City of Los Angeles for seventh in Site Selection’s “Top 20 U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones In Combined Economic Impact.”
LOUISVILLE, KY (October 28, 2020) - Vendors wishing to participate in the LIHEAP 2020-2021 program must complete required paperwork and return the appropriate documentation. Vendor Packets can be downloaded from the louisvilleky.gov website by clicking here, or arrangements can be made to pick up in person by calling 502/574-3082.
LIHEAP, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, is a federally funded program that provides financial assistance to help eligible, low-income households meet their home heating needs. LIHEAP vendors are defined as any business that supplies energy, such as rental facilities where utilities are included in the rent or provides home heating fuel to individuals applying for the LIHEAP program. Examples of home heating fuel include oil, kerosene, propane, bottled gas, wood, electric or natural gas.
Vendor paperwork will provide information about changes in the LIHEAP program this year and the LIHEAP staff members are happy to address any questions. Vendors who participated in the 2019-2020 program should receive a packet in the mail to update records for this year’s participation.
The Subsidy Component of LIHEAP begins Nov. 2 and ends Dec. 11, 2020 or until funds are expended. The Crisis Component will begin January 4, 2021 and will end March 31, 2021 or until funds are expended. Please contact Brandon Oneal at (502) 574-6082, or visit https://louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP for more information.
Louisville Metro Government is committed to promoting access, equal opportunities, and the meaningful participation by minority-owned, women-owned, and disabled owned businesses in all of its procurement activity.
Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) administers the local LIHEAP program for Jefferson County residents. For more information about RCS, visit our website at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-serviceswww.louisvilleky.gov/RCS or call 502/574-5050. For more information about Community Action of Kentucky which administers LIHEAP through a network of 23 community action agencies across Kentucky, call 1-800-456-3452.
JCPS Meal Pick-Up Schedule Changing in November
Meal sites closed on Election Day, but open Monday, Nov. 2
October 29, 2020 – Jefferson County Public Schools’ (JCPS) meal sites will undergo several scheduling changes in November in observance of holidays:
The new evening pick-up time will be 3 - 5 p.m. instead of 4 - 6 p.m. at the eight sites currently offering evening meal distribution:
Butler Traditional High School
Carrithers Middle School
Eastern High School
Greathouse Shryock Traditional Elementary School
Male High School
Seneca High School
Valley High School
Westport Middle School
Roosevelt-Perry Elementary School will resume evening pick up on Tuesday, Nov. 10.
Farnsley Elementary School will no longer offer evening meals.
On Thursday, Nov. 19, JCPS Nutritional Services will distribute a special Thanksgiving meal and on Tuesday, Nov. 24, families will receive five of each meal for every child to cover them for the holiday break.
Since Sept. 1, the 130 meal sites at schools across the district have served an average of 16,800 children each Tuesday and Thursday. The number of children served has steadily increased each week.
Click here for a list of schools distributing meals from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday.
Update on In-School Instruction
JCPS wants to assure families that a plan is in place to safely reopen our schools when the data supports that decision. When they see a significant reduction in the number of cases, they will consult local and state health officials and make a determination about when they can safely return to in-person instruction. Students in middle and high schools will alternate between classroom and virtual learning once in-person instruction resumes at Jefferson County Public Schools, and those who refuse to follow COVID-19 guidelines could face disciplinary action. The updated planning document is available on JCPS website.
Office of Advanced Planning and Sustainability Updates
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.
LCAN B4UBuy Workshop
On Saturday, November 14, from 1pm to 2:20pm, the Louisville Climate Action Network is hosting an online workshop to teach home and small business owners how they can cut their heating bills and replace old heating systems with more energy efficient, cost effective equipment suited to their needs.
To register for the free online event, click here.
REAL Good News: Local Action for Climate Care
On Saturday, November 14 from 6:30-8pm, members of the Renewable Energy Alliance of Louisville (REAL), will be discussing what Louisville is doing for the sake of our climate. Keynote speakers will include Sam Avery, Nancy Givens, and Margaret Stewart and will be joined by guest speaker Marcus Winker, Metro Councilman for District 17.
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.
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.
Batteries, light bulbs, oil-based paint, varnishes, stains, and other household hazardous waste (take to Haz Bin)
Tree trunks
Boats, hot tubs
Items from businesses
Trailers greater than 10 feet in length (larger loads can be taken to the Waste Reduction Center)
COVID-19 Policies: Staff will wear personal protective equipment, including face coverings, and will stay at least 6 feet away from citizens. Citizens should remain in their vehicle if possible and must wear a face covering if exiting their vehicle.
And all Louisville Metro residents will have the option to dispose of them for free at one of three drop-off sites beginning Tuesday, November 10.
The Metro Public Works free leaf drop-off sites will be open Tuesday-Saturdays, November 10 through December 12. Drop-off will not be available on November 26 and 27 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Only loose leaves will be accepted. Containers used to bring leaves to the drop-off sites must be disposed of off-site by residents.
Leaf drop off sites:
Public Works Yard
10500 Lower River Road (enter from Bethany Lane)
Tuesday – Saturday
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Public Works East District Operations Center
595 North Hubbards Lane
Tuesday – Saturday
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Waste Reduction Center
636 Meriwether Avenue
Tuesday – Friday
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Public Feedback Sought on Proposed I-65/I-264 Interchange Improvement Strategies
Planning study outlines short-term and long-term solutions
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Oct. 21, 2020) –The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is seeking public input for a planning study of the I-65/I-264 interchange in Jefferson County. The project team has proposed seven short-term and three long-term improvement strategies to be reviewed and prioritized.
The public is encouraged to fill out a questionnaire sharing their comments and priorities at bit.ly/AirportInterchange. Responses will be accepted through Nov. 22.
Proposed long-term improvement strategies for the I-65/I-264 interchange include:
Changes in access from Preston Highway and I-65 to I-264 eastbound
Changes to the I-264 westbound to I-65 loop ramp
Changes to I-65 southbound exits
The project team also outlined several lower-cost, short-term improvement strategies for consideration including:
Installing pavement tattoos
Improving guide signage
Enhancing striping at decision points
Installing high visibility striping
Upgrading current lighting
Applying high friction surface treatment
Upgrading guardrails
Full explanations of each improvement strategy with map graphics, videos, fact sheets and other briefing materials are available at bit.ly/AirportInterchange. Those unable to access the online questionnaire and briefing items may request print copies by contacting Amanda Desmond at amanda.desmond@ky.gov or 502-210-5400.
KYTC launched the I-65/I-264 Interchange Planning Study in fall 2019. The purpose of the study is to identify strategies to increase safety, manage and reduce roadway congestion, ensure timely and efficient movement of freight, and decrease and/or mitigate negative environmental impacts to the interchange. In-depth data analysis of existing conditions along with public input collected in May and June and feedback from area businesses and community leaders guided the selection of the proposed improvement strategies presented in this round of public involvement.
About the I-65/I-264 Interchange:
The I-65/I-264 interchange facilitates movement throughout the region, including access to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, UPS Worldport, Kentucky Air National Guard, Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center, and Kentucky Kingdom. This interchange had the highest crash rate in the region when ranked by the Kentuckiana Regional Planning & Development Agency (KIPDA), which serves as the metropolitan planning organization for Louisville Metro and eight surrounding counties.
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!***
**********Important Information for Upcoming Pantry Day**********
The next pantry day will be on Saturday, November 21st NOT Monday, November 23rd. This is a one-time change due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Turkeys and Thanksgiving side-items will be available starting at 12:00pm (noon) on Saturday. Supplies are more limited than usual; the pantry will be open from noon until supplies run out.
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
