Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 12/11/2020 04:37 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
***December 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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Councilwoman Shanklin and the District 2 Office would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy holiday season!
2020 has been a hard year on nearly all Louisvillians, and members of our own local neighborhoods have not been unaffected. Still, though there have been many hardships this year, Councilwoman Shanklin and her District 2 office have remained focused in attempting to bring aid, safety, and joy to our neighborhoods despite any challenges the year could throw at us! Just some of the projects accomplished this past year, spearheaded by Dr. Shanklin, include:
Providing funding and support for the construction and installation of multiple speed hump projects in the Newburg neighborhood. This year Cedrus Cir., Brenda Dr., Unseld Blvd., part of Garden Green Way, and Oaklawn Dr. all received speed humps free of charge via NDF funding from the District 2 office. Several additional speed hump projects are set to be completed next year!
Providing funding and support for the paving of Delaware Dr., Monticello Ave., and Lagoona Dr., located in multiple areas in D-2. Approximately, $200,000 in NDF funding from Councilwoman Shanklin was provided in order for these projects to take place.
Helping to expand the scope of the food pantry she was involved in setting up last year at Peace Presbyterian Church in Newburg. For nearly half of the year, this food pantry has held an additional day of giving each month thanks to support from our friends at Second Presbyterian Church, as well as Councilwoman Shanklin and her D-2 office.
Coordinating to have both a COVID-19 lab testing site, as well as a Kroger Pharmacy vaccination site, to operate in District 2. In partnership with Newburg Church of Christ, who provided space and support, Dr. Shanklin offered the constituents of D-2 the opportunity to try and stay as healthy as possible as our entire country struggles with the COVID-19 pandemic. $4,999.00 of Councilwoman Shanklin's NDF funding was made available to help cover co-pays for our constituents requiring pneumonia or shingles vaccination shots at the Kroger Pharmacy vaccination site. Councilwoman Shanklin intends to provide more funding for this purpose as the sites continue to operate into 2021.
Coordinating and allocating funding towards a $100,000+ project in Petersburg Park which will bring a new soccer field to D-2. This new field will be ready for play in Spring 2021!
Engaging with countless members of our neighborhoods in an effort to better facilitate their ability to navigate through our local government in order to solve individual problems. If you've ever called in to Dr. Shanklin, you know that she is not one to leave a call unreturned!
The above examples are just a small sample of the accomplishments that Councilwoman Shanklin and her office have been happy to achieve over the past year. None of them could have been accomplished without the help and support of the community of District 2! With that in mind, on behalf of Councilwoman Shanklin and the entire D-2 office, we would like to thank you for your continuing partnership in making our District better every day, and we look forward to serving you next year!
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.
Another grim milestone hits Jefferson County as city officials urge residents to stay strong, first vaccines are on the way
LOUISVILLE, KY. (December 8, 2020) – Mayor Greg Fischer and the Louisville Department of Public Health and Wellness interim Medical Director, Dr. SarahBeth Hartlage, addressed the media today as the city faced another grim milestone in its fight against COVID-19.
Louisville surpassed 4,000 positive cases as the daily incidence rate increased to 74.6 cases per 100,000 population, a trajectory that Dr. Hartlage said is three times the critical incidence rate threshold of 25 cases.
With the Governor’s restrictions set to expire on Sunday, Mayor Fischer recognized the toll it has taken on the local economy, but added that, while difficult, it was a necessary decision to slow the spread of the virus until health data indicates residents are in a safer position.
“These are painful measures that disrupt what we think is normal, but clearly we are not living in normal times when you see the amount of infections and mortality rates that are taking place,” Mayor Fischer said. “Our businesses, particularly restaurants, are really suffering. I’m asking everyone to push through this as best we can. Let’s keep doing what we know we need to do with mask-wearing, social distancing and staying home as much as possible. Let’s get through the end of the day Sunday when the restrictions lapse and hopefully, we’ll be in a much better place.”
Dr. Hartlage reported that the Department of Public Health and Wellness has adopted new guidelines by the Centers for Disease Control on COVID-19 quarantine and isolation processes that shortens quarantine time from 14 to 7 or 10 days, depending on individual circumstances.
“Assuming you do not develop any symptoms of COVID-19 including fever, cough or shortness of breath during your quarantine, you may choose to get tested for COVID on day five and if it’s positive, you’ll need to isolate like any other COVID positive case,” she said. “If your test result on day five is negative, then your quarantine period can end as early as day seven.”
For people who choose to forgo testing, or are unable to get tested, their quarantine period ends on day 10 if no symptoms arise. She emphasized that people should continue to monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 regardless of test results.
Here are the key COVID-19 data metrics for the week of December 8, 2020:
There were 4,003 new cases over the previous week.
Hospitalization data:
20.4% of patients currently hospitalized have COVID-19.
91 patients in ICU with COVID-19 as of December 8, a slight decrease from 94 the week prior.
54 COVID-19 patients on ventilators as of December 8, compared to 58 last week.
COVID-19 cases are in every ZIP code and each of them are in the red.
Largest increase in cases are in the 20-44-year-old demographic at 42.2%
We’re seeing a disproportionate amount of cases in our African American and Latinx communities. We continue efforts outreach to provide resources for residents needing to quarantine and increasing testing capacity.
With high level community spread, interactions with individuals outside the household puts residents at a greater risk of bringing an infection home. Once a member of the household is infected, it is likely to spread to other members.
As city officials anticipate a spike in COVID-19 cases from the Thanksgiving holiday, Dr. Hartlage said it is too soon to determine if residents were gathering in large groups outside the governor’s guidelines.
“There are a few small clusters that we can attribute to family gatherings and we have continued to see a rise in cases and that could be a contributing factor.”
She concluded that it’s a situation the health department is monitoring closely and will be able to make a more educated assessment in the coming week.
COVID-19 mass vaccination planning and rollout
As news of vaccine progress ramps up, Dr. Hartlage and Paul Kern, Public Health Preparedness Administrator for Metro Health and Wellness and Coordinator of Mass Vaccination Planning, discussed the road ahead with regards to vaccine distribution in Jefferson County.
According to Kern, the Department of Public Health and Wellness is using principles from past large-scale vaccination events such as H1N1 and the 2017 Hepatitis A outbreak in planning for the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines.
“Some of the challenges with this vaccine are the different ones available, that each requires two doses at different intervals, and different storage requirements,” he said.
Kern said a portion of the first allocation of a COVID vaccine in Jefferson County will go to the three health care systems in Louisville, University of Louisville Hospital, Baptist Health and Norton Healthcare to use for their essential frontline healthcare workers. The remainder of the allocation will go to Walgreens and CVS pharmacy to address high-risk groups in long-term care facilities.
Dr. Hartlage said that guidance starts at the federal level setting people into broad categories like frontline workers, critical infrastructure and high-risk adults. Then from the state level, a vaccine allocation group helps the health department place a priority on groups within those categories.
“In critical infrastructure here in Kentucky, we’re placing an emphasis on EMS workers and educators, and at the local level, we help coordinate those groups,” she said. “It’s a multi-tiered approach to make sure we get all the right people into the right groups.”
Louisville Awarded a Gold Medal from CityHealth
Earlier Tuesday morning, Dr. Sarah Moyer, Louisville’s Chief Health Strategist accepted an award on behalf of Metro Health and Wellness from CityHealth, an initiative that rates the nation’s 40 largest cities based on their progress in adopting evidence-based policies addressing social determinants of health.
Complete Streets – unlocking opportunities for city residents to safely walk, bike, drive and take public transportation.
Tobacco 21 – curbing tobacco use among young adults has shown to decrease the number of people who start and continue smoking.
Smoke Free Indoor Air – Comprehensive smoke-free air laws
Food Safety and Restaurant Inspection Rating – Policies requiring food establishments to publicly post safety inspection grades to empower consumers to reduce foodborne illness rates and cut down on health care costs.
“I’m really excited about the progress that my team has made in the last three years,” Dr. Moyer said. “Especially our community partners that have helped us to become a healthier city.”
COVID-19 Testing Update
William Altman, a consultant leading Louisville’s testing strategy, said that as demand for testing remains strong, the city’s testing capacity is robust. He stated that more than 45,000 COVID-19 tests were conducted in the week leading into the Thanksgiving holiday. Altman said around 30,000 to 40,000 tests throughout Metro Louisville per week.
Test result turnaround times among local partners have been consistent with results coming back within 48 hours or less. Altman urges residents who need or want a test to visit the Louisville COVID resource center website for locations in Jefferson County.
As case counts and testing demand increase in Louisville, Altman said the testing task force is focusing on expanding capacity and testing sites. He announced that Family Health Centers and Norton Healthcare have been able to increase testing capacity to match the demand volume. Additionally, he mentioned that a new testing site in collaboration with Metro Councilwoman Keisha Dorsey opened this week at the Shively Community Center at 1901 Park Road.
“Look for more new sites opening as we look at data and partner with others in the community to see where we need to bring testing to the residents as opposed to asking residents to go to places where it might not be convenient.”
Executive Order effective Friday, Nov. 20 through Sunday, Dec. 13. See slides here.
Restaurants, Bars – No indoor food or beverage consumption; carryout and delivery encouraged; socially distance outdoor seating
Private social gatherings – Up to eight people from a maximum of two households
Gyms, fitness centers, pools, other indoor recreation facilities – 33% capacity limit; group classes, team practices and competitions prohibited; masks must be worn while exercising
Venues, event spaces and theaters – Each room will be limited to 25 people. This applies to indoor weddings and funerals, but excludes in-person worship services, for which the Governor will provide recommendations Thursday.
Professional services – Office-based businesses limited to 33% of employees; all employees who are able to work from home must do so; all businesses that can close to the public must do so
To view current guidance for activities not listed above visit the state's Healthy at Work website.
Schools – All public and private schools (K -12) to cease in-person instruction:
Middle and high schools will remain in remote or virtual instruction until at least Jan. 4, 2021.
Elementary schools may reopen for in-person instruction Dec. 7 if their county is not in the red zone and the school follows all Healthy at School guidance.
GUIDANCE
KYCOVID19.KY.GOV This website is Kentucky's central resource for all COVID-19 information and guidance. The COVID-19 Hotline – (800) 722-5725 – is a service operated by the health care professionals at the KY Poison Control Center who can provide advice and answer questions. For general inquiries, please send an email to KyCovid19@ky.gov. KyCovid19.ky.gov also includes weekly White House Coronavirus Task Force reports for Kentucky.
RED ZONE RECOMMENDATIONS See red zone counties here. See red zone county recommendations here. See school guidance based on color-coded zone here.
ASSISTANCE
UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE Go to KCC.ky.gov for more information and to file a claim. You can also call 1-502-875-0442 (File a Claim) or 1-877-369-5984 (Request a Payment). See other UI contact information (email and phone numbers) here.
KYNECT Website available in: Arabic (عربى); Bosnian (Bosanski); Chinese (中文); English (English); French (Français); Russian (русский); Somali (Somali); Spanish (Español); Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)
Visit kynect.ky.gov to apply for health insurance; benefit programs covering food assistance (SNAP), child care assistance, financial aid for children and caregivers (KTAP) and more; and to learn more about local help with food, transportation, housing, employment, finances, physical and mental health are closer than you think.
RESTAURANT AND BAR RELIEF To help offset the financial impact on restaurants and bars, the Governor is dedicating $40 million in CARES Act funding to provide qualifying restaurants and bars $10,000 in relief for various expenses, with a maximum award of $20,000 per business entity. Businesses with at least 50% of their sales via drive-through (during a normal year) will not be eligible. To focus on locally owned businesses, publicly traded companies are not eligible to apply.
Applications are scheduled to open Nov. 30 and close Dec. 18. Businesses will be required to remain in compliance with all public health orders. Applications will be processed in the order they are received, and funds will be awarded until they are exhausted.
Reimbursable expenses include items like: rent, employee salaries, health insurance costs, inventory and personal protective equipment. To check eligibility, or to apply, visit teamkyfbrf.ky.gov.
UTILITY RELIEF FUND The Kentucky Public Service Commission ended its moratorium on disconnections for nonpayment for the utilities it regulates on Oct. 20. To ensure there were protections when that begins, the Governor signed an executive order that ended 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. Apply through your local Community Action Agency.
VACCINE UPDATE
To learn about the state’s first vaccine shipments, which could arrive as early as mid-December, click here.
Kentuckians should also visit KYCOVID19.ky.gov to view the latest information available on the vaccine, including:
The draft Kentucky vaccination plan, which includes a draft outline of our planning phases, critical populations and vaccine provider enrollment and administration.
To see previous COVID-19 actions from Gov. Beshear, which began when he declared a state of emergency on March 6, 2020, click here.
Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville
Mayor signs ordinance expanding housing protections to eliminate ‘21st century discrimination’
New law will lift barriers for additional classes of people seeking affordable housing
(LOUISVILLE, KY., December 9, 2020) — Mayor Greg Fischer today signed into law an ordinance approved by Metro Council to expand the city’s ban on non-discriminatory housing practices by adding new classes of protected residents seeking housing.
Under the new law, a person cannot be turned down for housing based on their arrest or conviction history, homeless status, source of income or military service record.
“It’s not enough to fight the legacy of historic discrimination. We must fight harder than ever to put an end to 21st-century discrimination in our city today. And housing, in particular, has been an area where racism and other forms of discrimination still hurt too many people in our city for far too long,” the Mayor said. “This work is particularly critical now, because, as we’ve seen, the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to housing insecurity concerns for people across our city, particularly low-wage workers, often renters, often people of color, whose incomes have been reduced or eliminated.”
Louisville’s ordinances currently provide for non-discriminatory housing practices for protected classes such as race, color, religion, national origin, familial status, disability, sex, gender identity and sexual orientation. The new ordinance, sponsored by Councilwoman Jessica Green (D-1), adds, to the protections the ordinance currently provides, protection against discrimination based on a person’s homeless status, prior military service, criminal history, and source of income such as child support, foster care subsidies, income derived from social security, grants, pension or any form of federal, state or local public assistance or housing assistance.
“I’m proud that this measure is coming to fruition. We need more protections for our city’s renters to successfully find affordable housing without facing unfair treatment from landlords,” Councilwoman Green said. “The need for affordable housing is important and necessary during this era, and this will now eliminate obstacles.”
Kendall Boyd, Louisville’s Chief Equity Officer, praised the additional protections for veterans, many of whom struggle with the city’s shortage of affordable housing and living wage jobs.
“These factors combined with the increased likelihood that veterans will exhibit symptoms of PTSD, substance abuse, or mental illness can compound to put veterans at a greater risk of homelessness than the general population, which subjects them to higher rates of discriminatory housing practices,” Boyd said. “As a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) partner, the Louisville Metro Human Relations Commission must advance and affirmatively further fair housing for these unprotected classes.”
Louisville Metro Housing Authority Director Lisa Osanka added: “Now is the time to address the unfair practices against our city’s renters and provide added protections that help residents find secure, affordable housing. With renters facing so many challenges such as unemployment and a global pandemic, this new law is timely and a step in the right direction.”
Other key sponsors of the bill include Louisville Metro Council President David James and councilmembers Bill Hollander, Barbara Shanklin, Keisha Dorsey and Donna Purvis.
Mayor Fischer announces efforts by KentuckianaWorks to help job seekers get trained and connected to good local jobs
Work-from-Home Virtual Hiring Event runs through this Sunday, December 13
LOUISVILLE, KY., (December 8, 2020) – As the economic impact of COVID-19 has left thousands of people across the Louisville region without stable employment, Mayor Greg Fischer announced efforts by KentuckianaWorks to help connect people with good jobs in the area.
KentuckianaWorks, the Louisville region’s Workforce Development Board and an agency of Louisville Metro Government, is offering a variety of free job search resources, career trainings, and hiring events during this challenging time. For example:
· A Work-from-Home virtual hiring event for remote job opportunities starting Tuesday, December 8 and running through Sunday, December 13. To register, visit kentuckianaworks.org/jobs.
· There are a limited number of spots available in its Kentuckiana Builds construction training class and the Kentucky Manufacturing Career Center’s advanced manufacturing training class. To learn more about these options, which begin in January 2021, and explore all of KentuckianaWorks’ resources for job seekers, visit kentuckianaworks.org/workers.
· Young adults ages 16-24 can access career resources through the Kentucky Youth Career Center at WeAreKYCC.org.
The region’s Kentucky Career Centers and other locations where KentuckianaWorks operates continue to be closed to in-person foot traffic due to COVID-19. But the workforce agency, which serves residents of Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, and Trimble counties, is offering its core career services to workers and job seekers over the phone and online.
KentuckianaWorks offers one-on-one career coaching, career workshops, and in-depth training in advanced manufacturing, construction, software development (coding), and IT support. All these services are free of charge and are designed to get job seekers into quality positions with good pay and the potential for career advancement.
“This is an especially tough time for many thousands of people across our region,” said Mayor Fischer. “We want to make sure that the folks who are looking for a new job right now know that KentuckianaWorks can help them. They have a dedicated group of trainers and career experts who are getting job seekers prepared for their next move.”
Please note: KentuckianaWorks does not handle Unemployment Insurance claims or questions. For assistance with UI, please visit kcc.ky.gov.
Mayor Fischer signs ordinance establishing Civilian Review and Accountability Board
Board will create a new layer of independent review to LMPD disciplinary matters
LOUISVILLE, KY. (December 2, 2020) — Mayor Greg Fischer today signed an ordinance that formally establishes the Civilian Review and Accountability Board and the Office of Inspector General, creating a new layer of independent review to Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) disciplinary matters.
“Today, we are taking a major step forward in our work to advance our goals of racial justice and equity, and to strengthen the trust between our police officers and the public they are sworn to serve and protect,” the Mayor said.
The creation of the new Board and the IG’s Office align with the Mayor’s racial equity plans in an Executive Order he signed yesterday declaring racism a public health crisis.
The new Civilian Review and Accountability Board will oversee the work of the IG’s Office, which will have the authority to investigate alleged incidents of improper conduct by any members of the LMPD with any member of the public. In addition to investigating complaints, duties of the IG’s Office include examining patterns and practices within LMPD; reviewing policies, procedures and operations; and providing recommendations on improving operations to the Mayor’s Office and Metro Council.
Potential disciplinary actions will remain the purview of the Chief of Police, but the work of the new Board and the IG’s Office can help inform that process.
Metro Councilwoman Paula McCraney (D-7) sponsored the ordinance after working with a group of community members to help bring more transparency and accountability to police discipline matters. She called today’s signing ‘historic.’
“There is no higher pursuit than to serve a cause greater than oneself. Today’s historic signing of the creation of the Civilian Review and Accountability Board and Office of Inspector General only comes from being committed to that greater good,” she said. “This legislation is critical because the police are the authoritative symbol of law and order and the general public is extremely sensitive to the slightest hint that police may be abusing their power and investigating themselves.”
McCraney added, “The work of the review board and Inspector General has the potential to restore respect and trust in the brave men and women who protect and serve us, and citizens can rest assured that allegations of police misconduct will be thoroughly investigated by another set of eyes other than internal police. I am honored to be a part of this great work that will bridge the gap between the perception and reality of law enforcement. It’s a great day for all citizens in the city of Louisville.”
Metro Councilman Bill Hollander (D-9) said creation of the new Board and IG’s Office are steps in the right direction.
“After many years of effort and with broad-based community work this year, we now have a robust, sustainable civilian oversight system for LMPD,” Hollander said. “I’m especially pleased with the creation of the Office of Inspector General, which can support the civilian board in reviews of LMPD policies, operations, patterns and practices, in addition to complaints.”
The city has contracted with executive search firm David Gomez Partners, based in Illinois, for a nationwide search for the Inspector General. Applications will be submitted through the firm, but in the meantime, interested applicants can send their resumes directly to Louisville Metro Government Human Resources. The Inspector General position is expected to be filled by early 2021. The IG and the eleven members of the new Board will be chosen by the Mayor’s Office and approved by the Metro Council. The Mayor ensured that the people who make up the Board will come from every corner of the city.
Members will receive education and training, including 24 hours of ride-alongs with police officers, to gain a better understanding of the nuanced issues and changing dynamics of police work in order to make fair and informed assessments and recommendations.
Current law enforcement officers, their families, as well as Louisville Metro Government employees and elected officials are not eligible to serve on the new Board. For those who are eligible, there are different paths to being nominated for service on the review board. Interested residents can nominate themselves by visiting https://louisvilleky.gov/government/mayor-greg-fischer/interested-serving-board-or-commission
The Mayor noted that “this is just the latest in the public safety reforms we’ve been making for months.” Other actions include:
Signing Breonna’s Law, which banned no-knock warrants and expanded body camera requirements.
Hiring the consulting firm Hilliard Heintze to conduct a top-to-bottom review of LMPD’s policies and procedures, with a focus on equity and progressive law enforcement practices. Their review is expected to be completed and released in early January 2021.
Interviewing candidates as part of the nationwide search for a permanent Chief of Police. That announcement is expected later this month.
Working to incentivize officers to lives and volunteer in the communities they serve; recruit and retain more officers of color; and incorporate social workers into calls for service where appropriate.
While the city has made progress, the Mayor acknowledged “we have more to do. We have to find more ways to bring transparency and accountability to the police review process. And we have to do that with the understanding of how difficult, dangerous and necessary good police work is and how important good police officers are to our community.”
The ordinance to establish the new Board was approved by Metro Council in November by a nearly unanimous vote and is the product of the work group that the Mayor and Metro Council President David James established in May.
The Mayor closed today’s signing ceremony by thanking the more than 30 faith leaders, law enforcement representatives, community advocates and elected officials who served on the Civilian Review Board Work Group. “You’ve done incredible work for our city. Thanks especially to the co-chairs, Councilwoman Paula McCraney and Deputy Mayor Ellen Hesen.”
City announces 2020 Light Up Louisville plans designed to keep people safe, avoid spread of COVID-19
LOUISVILLE, KY (November 17, 2020) – Citing dangers posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Louisville Metro Government today announced adjusted plans for the city’s annual Light Up Louisville kickoff to the holidays.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, “large in-person gatherings where it is difficult for individuals to remain spaced at least 6 feet apart and attendees travel from outside the local area” pose the highest COVID-19 risk to attendees and staff. And with Louisville maintaining a red alert status for COVID-19, the traditional gathering in downtown Louisville is not appropriate, city leaders said.
“In a normal year, bringing thousands of people to celebrate this annual kickoff of the holiday season is a wonderful thing,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “But this is not a normal year, and at a time when we see the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths rising steadily, our usual celebration is simply not safe. I am pleased, though, to announce alternative plans that spread the festivities around our community.”
Here are the details of Light Up Louisville 2020, which will again be powered by longtime sponsor LG&E, along with 106.9 Play, AT&T and other sponsors:
Holiday lights will go up at Metro Hall and City Hall, and a brightly lit Christmas tree will be set up on the grounds of Metro Hall. The light display, set up largely by Axxis Inc., will include a rainbow of colors to celebrate Christmas, Kwanza, and Hanukah, reflecting the diversity of the community. Holiday-themed gobos will also be displayed on Metro Hall. The Mayor is also encouraging residents and businesses to put up their own rainbow of colors at their homes and workplaces.
Here Comes Santa Claus! Instead of having people come downtown for the annual Light Up countdown and an appearance by Santa, the city is sending Santa out into the community. In partnership with 106.9 Play FM and Neil Huffman Subaru, as well as LG&E and AT&T, Santa and his caravan will travel through approximately 20 neighborhoods, selected through nominations from area residents, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 27-28 and Dec. 5, 12 and 19. Christmas music will be playing, and a large mobile video screen will play highlights from previous Light Up Louisville events as Santa’s caravan drives through the selected neighborhoods. Follow this link to nominate your neighborhood for a Santa stop.
The Mayor thanked event sponsors for their support and their flexibility in helping provide the alternative Light Up Louisville.
LG&E and KU President and CEO Paul W. Thompson: “While we can’t come together as we always have, this creative approach to our holiday festivities enables us to celebrate safely while still experiencing the joy that comes with the season. We’re proud to be a part of it and to once again help our community shine brightly this holiday season.”
AT&T Kentucky President Hood Harris: “AT&T is proud to support Light Up Louisville and help bring this family friendly event to our community. It’s encouraging to turn our attention to the holiday season and activities that unite our community, and we’re thrilled to see the tradition of Light Up Louisville continue.”
106.9 Play Operations Manager Cagle: “We are excited to join forces with Light Up Louisville and the North Pole to bring Santa Claus to Louisville. We have talked to Santa, and he is very excited to see the children in Kentuckiana this Christmas season.”
Mayor Fischer urges people to share their photos from this alternative Light Up Louisville on social media using the hashtag #AroundLou. For more information, go to: www.lightuplouisville.org.
In addition, the Mayor is reminding residents of these other holiday traditions in the city:
Winter Woods Spectacular
From the producers of the popular Jack O’Lantern Spectacular, Winter Woods Spectacular will debut in Iroquois Park from Nov. 27– Jan. 2. Winter Woods is a half mile drive of lighting and artistry that will explore and celebrate the holiday season. Proceeds will benefit the Louisville Parks Foundation. Visit https://www.winterwoodsspectacular.org/ for more information.
Fête de Noël
Paristown’s Fête de Noël is back this year, featuring Louisville’s only authentic outdoor ice-skating rink. Residents are invited to skate, shop, eat and drink in the heart of Paristown and enjoy holiday movie nights, karaoke, silent disco on ice, Stoneware & Co. ornament decorating, and much more. Fête de Noël is open Nov. 25th – Jan. 3rd. For more information, visit www.paristown.com/fetedenoel
Lights Under Louisville
Each year, the Louisville Mega Cavern is transformed into an underground holiday light spectacular for the Christmas season. Enjoy a 30-minute ride through 17 miles of underground passageways. Featuring more than 850 lit characters with over 3 million points of light. Lights Under Louisville is open Nov. 13 – Jan. 3. For more information, visit www.lightsunderlouisville.com
Louisville Metro streamlines process for eviction prevention assistance programs
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.
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.
For information about all the resources and services available to those facing eviction, visit StopMyEviction.org
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.
UPDATE: As of November 25th, over 300 residents have been tested for COVID-19 via this drive-thru event. Additionally, over 100 residents have received flu, pneumonia, or shingles shots via our office's partnership with the Kroger Pharmacy that has been accompanying our COVID-19 testing.
***Kroger Pharmacy will be offering flu and pneumonia shots ONLY this coming Monday (December 14th) from 2pm to 5pm at Newburg Church of Christ. Some funding that Councilwoman Shanklin allocated to helping to cover co-pays for these shots still remains. If you still need either a flu or pneumonia shot this season, please plan to see the Kroger pharmacists this Monday!***
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.
Public Health and Wellness Distributing Free Radon Test Kits
LOUISVILLE, KY. (December 2, 2020) – The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is offering free radon test kits while the supply lasts. You can request a kit by visiting this link or by calling 502-574-6650. The test kits come with an instruction sheet and postage to send back to the lab for it to be analyzed free of charge. The only way to know a building has radon and if you’re being exposed is to test.
Radon is an odorless, colorless and tasteless chemical radioactive gas. It forms naturally when uranium, radium and thorium break down in rocks, soil and groundwater. Radon attaches to dust or tobacco smoke and gets carried into the lungs. Prolonged exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer. People can be exposed to radon primarily from breathing radon in air that comes in through cracks and gaps in homes and other buildings.
The entire state of Kentucky is at high risk for radon exposure with about 40 percent of homes estimated to have unsafe levels.
"Radon can exist at dangerous levels in homes in Louisville, but people may not know it because it’s a gas that you can’t smell or see,” said Dr. Sarah Moyer, director of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness and the city’s chief health strategist. “We encourage people to take advantage of the free test kits to test their homes for radon.”
From January to October this year approximately 2,152 radon test kits were distributed by the health department. Currently the department has 725 kits available with federal funding to purchase and distribute more. The test kits come with an instruction sheet and postage to send back to the lab for it to be analyzed which are all free of charge. The only way to know a building has radon and if you’re being exposed is to test.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), about 20,000 cases of lung cancer occur each year from radon exposure, making it the second leading cause of the disease in the United States behind smoking and leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year.
The lung cancer risk factors of tobacco smoke and radon are related. More radon-related lung cancers occur in individuals with a history of exposure to tobacco smoke. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high.
Here are a few tips to help prevent radon in your home:
Stop smoking and discourage smoking in your home.
Smoking significantly increases the risk of lung cancer from radon.
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 is 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 resumed evening pick up on Tuesday, Nov. 10.
Farnsley Elementary School will no longer offer evening meals.
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.
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.
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!***
***THIS MONTH (DECEMBER) ONLY: The Peace Presbyterian Church food pantry will be open both December 14th and December 21st. In order to reach those in need prior to Christmas, there will be back-to-back pantry weeks this month. Therefore, the pantry will not be open on December 28th.***
Upcoming Events at Newburg Library!
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We are pleased to announce that 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
