Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 05/06/2021 04:11 PM EDT
COUNCILWOMAN DR. BARBARA SHANKLIN
(502) 574-1102 / 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202
Dr. Barbara Shanklin District 2 Councilwoman 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202 (502) 574-1102 Barbara.Shanklin@louisvilleky.gov
Caleb Howard Legislative Assistant (502) 574-2787 Caleb.Howard@louisvilleky.gov
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.
NEW MEETING OPPORTUNITY: JOIN US ON ZOOM NEXT MONTH TO MEET WITH LMPD AND COUNCILWOMAN SHANKLIN:
LMPD:
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us//j/99092698789?
pwd=TU5HZUZLQXpkSGN6M0RVWGZZamVSQT09
Meeting ID: 990 9269 8789 Passcode: 7ctnfN
Councilwoman Shanklin:
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/92248648621?
pwd=SnN4SHptNENlNldQT0ZPZ1FiUTVmdz09
Meeting ID: 922 4864 8621 Passcode: xVF968
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STAY CONNECTED:
CLICK HERE OR CALL 574-LMPD (5673) TO SUBMIT A CRIME TIP
Councilwoman Shanklin and the District 2 office wish you a Happy Mother's Day!
Official Team Kentucky sources for information concerning COVID-19
COVID-19 Hotline (800) 722-5725
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
City officials offer hope, but urge caution as COVID cases rise
Mayor Fischer continues to strongly encourage Louisvillians to get vaccinated
LOUISVILLE, KY (May 4, 2021) – Mayor Greg Fischer and Dr. Sarah Moyer, Louisville’s Chief Health Strategist, today provided an update on COVID-19 in Louisville and addressed questions and concerns about resuming the use of the Janssen vaccine.
Following the 147th Kentucky Derby, the Mayor said the weekend was a good sign for the city’s economic future after a year of challenges. He said the Derby gives people hope about what’s possible if the pandemic comes to an end. Despite the encouraging signs, Mayor Fischer said in order for Louisville’s economy to reopen in greater capacity more individuals need to get vaccinated to help limit the spread of the virus.
“The more people that get the vaccine, the more we can continue to reopen in greater capacity. “Economic growth and getting rid of the pandemic go hand-in-hand,” the Mayor said. “We’re coming down toward the finish line. We can see it, but we’re not there yet and we’ve got a lot of work left before we end the pandemic.”
Here are the key COVID-19 data metrics for the week of May 3, 2021:
There were 859 new cases over the previous week, 9 new deaths reported
Hospitalization data:
114 patients currently hospitalized with COVID-19, compared to 85 last week.
23 patients in ICU with COVID-19 as of May 4, compared to 27 the week prior.
16 COVID-19 patients on ventilators as of May 4, compared to 16 last week.
652,025 total vaccine doses given in Metro Louisville since December.
45.4% of Louisville residents have received at least one dose of vaccine and 34.4% have completed the vaccine series
“The pandemic is not over, and our increase in cases show that,” Dr. Moyer said. “The minute we let our guard down or get relaxed in our efforts the virus is ready to rise up and spread in our community.”
Dr. Moyer said that the current status of COVID cases does not reflect Derby weekend, but she reminded everyone that cases grow exponentially. Dr. Moyer encouraged unvaccinated individuals who attended the races at Churchill Downs to get tested. She said it’s important for people to monitor their symptoms and quarantine if they attended small gatherings or were around large crowds because they may have been exposed to COVID.
“Our case count from July 4, started out small with a few people infected, but as it grew exponentially and found more people that case count grew at the end of July,” she said. “So, we have to be able to test, isolate and vaccinate or that same thing might happen again. Testing allows us to track the spread of COVID and helps us find new variants that are driving spikes in cities across the U.S. and the globe, and helps us make sure people get timely access to medical treatment."
Infectious disease specialist addresses concern about Janssen vaccine
On April 23, after a thorough safety evaluation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention independent Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the CDC lifted the recommended pause on the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. The pause was recommended after reports of six cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot in individuals after receiving the vaccine.
Dr. Mark Burns, an infectious disease specialist and assistant professor at the University of Louisville School of Medicine said the pause enabled ACIP to accomplish two things: First was the ability to review data and identify additional cases where the rare event occurred following administration of the vaccine. Second, he said it allowed the panel to alert vaccine providers on how to treat patients if they had that disorder.
“Based on the fact that the risk was very low, the CDC and FDA felt the benefits outweighed the risks,” Dr. Burns said. “If recipients still have concerns about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine there are two other very safe and effective vaccines available.”
Dr. Burns said that individuals who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine should monitor their symptoms for three weeks for blood clot complications such as persistent headaches and abdominal pain, shortness of breath, chest pain, leg swelling, and easy bruising. He reminded that patients should communicate with their primary care provider or call 911 if they need emergency medical attention.
First Responder Data
Currently, 14 members of LMPD, Louisville Fire, Metro EMS, Metro Corrections and the Sheriff’s Office are off-duty due to COVID-19:
7 are off with positive tests and in self-isolation
2 are off and quarantined due to exposure to someone who tested positive
5 are off with symptoms, pending test results
Positive test numbers for first responders/public safety since the incident began:
565 positive tests
558 have fully recovered and returned to duty
Metro Corrections inmate data:
Total Tested: 7,608
Total Positive: 415
Total Recovered: 415
Total currently under medical isolation: 0
Total tests pending: 0
View this week’s COVID-19 briefing with city officials here. The city’s COVID-19 data dashboard, a complete list of COVID-19 testing sites, vaccine information, prevention and contact tracing can be found at www.louisville.gov/covid19. The LOU HEALTH COVID19 Helpline is also available: 502- 912-8598
*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.
Latest News from Gov. Beshear and the Commonwealth of Kentucky
Gov. Beshear Updates Kentuckians on COVID-19 Vaccinations
FRANKFORT, KY (May 5, 2021) – On Wednesday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced 1,837,229 people have received at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in Kentucky.
Case Information As of 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 5, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:
People vaccinated in Kentucky (have received at least one dose): 1,837,229
New cases today: 710 Positivity rate: 3.57%
For more information on cases and hospital capacity, see the full daily COVID-19 report. To see a list of those reported lost to the virus today, click here.
More Information To see all vaccination sites and free transportation options to and from vaccination appointments, visit vaccine.ky.gov. To see a list of vaccination sites that have openings this week, visit vaccinemap.ky.gov. If Kentuckians have questions, they should call the state’s COVID-19 Vaccine Hotline, 855-598-2246 or TTY 855-326-4654 (for deaf or hard-of-hearing Kentuckians).
For detailed information on COVID-19 vaccinations and more, visit kycovid19.ky.gov.
Gov. Beshear: In-Person Unemployment Appointments Open April 7, Services Begin April 15
After being closed for more than three years, regional offices to reopen for in-person unemployment insurance assistance
FRANKFORT, KY (April 6, 2021) — Gov. Andy Beshear and Labor Cabinet Secretary Larry L. Roberts announced today that in-person unemployment insurance (UI) services will open April 15 at more than a dozen regional Kentucky Career Centers (KCCs).
KCC staff will be available for in-person assistance by appointment only. At 1 p.m. EDT [on] April 7, Kentuckians can begin scheduling Monday through Friday appointments at kcc.ky.gov.
Openings tomorrow will be for appointments April 15-30. Beginning April 19, appointments for May 3 will become available, with additional appointment times opening each day thereafter.
“When you combine years of painful staffing cuts, an out-of-date system designed to tell people no and the effects of a once-in-100-years pandemic – many Kentuckians have been unable to obtain benefits,” Gov. Beshear said. “In addition to taking many new actions to help Kentuckians in need, we are now making good on our promise to begin putting unemployment specialists back into the local career centers.”
Labor Secretary Roberts said the Kentucky Career Center staff is working diligently to prepare for opening day.
“It has taken a lot of work to make it happen in a short window of time, but our staff has worked hard in recent weeks to pull everything together to get us in a position to once again provide services that unemployment claimants need at this critical time,” Roberts said.
Under the previous administration, KCC locations around the state stopped providing in-person assistance to UI claimants in the fall of 2017.
The record level of unemployment spurred by the pandemic and years of painful staffing cuts, location reductions and failure to upgrade IT systems slowed the state’s ability to help many Kentuckians who lost jobs through no fault of their own.
The Governor’s proposed budget included General Fund spending of $1.1 million in fiscal year 2021 and $8.4 million in fiscal year 2022 to provide funding to restore employees to help with unemployment claims at the career centers throughout the commonwealth.
On March 31, Gov. Beshear spoke about the need for additional state funding to bolster career center staffing for the long term. The Labor Cabinet will be utilizing current staff in the career centers that normally provide career counseling services to begin offering in-person UI assistance.
Kentucky Career Center Regional Locations
The cabinet will also be opening a new, temporary facility in Lexington, which will also provide UI assistance.
Ashland
1844 Carter Ave.
Ashland, KY 41042
Bowling Green
803 Chestnut St.
Bowling Green, KY 42101
Covington
1324 Madison Ave.
Covington, KY 41011
Elizabethtown
233 Ring Road, Suite 100
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
Hazard
412 Roy Campbell Dr.
Hazard, KY 41701
Hopkinsville
110 Riverfront Dr.
Hopkinsville, KY 42240
Lexington
2624 Research Park Dr.
Lexington, KY 40511
Louisville
600 W. Cedar St.
Louisville, KY 40202
Morehead
1225 U.S. Hwy. 60 West, Suite 160
Morehead, KY 40351
Owensboro
3108 Fairview Drive
Owensboro, KY 42303
Paducah
416 South 6th St.
Paducah, KY 42001
Prestonsburg
686 North Lake Drive
Prestonsburg, KY 41339
Somerset
410 East Mt. Vernon St.
Somerset, KY 42501
Special instructions
Anyone attending an appointment must wear a mask at all times.
Photo ID is required to enter a KCC building.
Temperatures will be taken before entering KCC buildings due to COVID-19.
Accommodations will not be made for those without appointments.
While staff make every effort to answer all questions during this appointment, UI specialists may not be able to provide a resolution during a single appointment. Some claims could require additional paperwork or take additional time to complete. An additional appointment will not be necessary.
Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville
Mayor appoints Matt Golden as Chief of Public Services
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 29, 2021) – Mayor Greg Fischer today announced Matt Golden as Louisville Metro’s new Chief of Public Services.
Golden will initially oversee Emergency Services, Corrections, and Louisville Fire, while transitioning from a legal advisor role with Louisville Metro Police Department. He’ll later take on additional Public Service agencies and responsibilities.
Golden retired from the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office in 2019, after a long career there, starting as an entry-level law clerk in 1995. He held nearly every role possible during his time with the office, serving as a trial court prosecutor, a DUI prosecutor, head of vice prosecution, civil litigation defense attorney, Tax Director, Civil Division Director and Second Assistant. At the time of his retirement, he held the office’s highest appointed position, as First Assistant.
He then moved into private practice as a partner with Daniels Associates LLP and, in addition, has served as interim General Counsel for the Transit Authority of River City, along with his advisor role with LMPD.
“Matt brings a wealth of institutional knowledge and experience in dealing with Louisville Metro issues and departments, and of course, has extensive legal expertise, which will be extremely beneficial,” Mayor Fischer said. “I have always admired his passion for public service. He will be a great addition to our team.”
Golden thanked Mayor Fischer for the opportunity to return to public service, noting, “I share the Mayor’s love for, and commitment to this city. I am humbled by this position of trust and the opportunity to again contribute to the city’s success.”
Golden will start on Monday, replacing Amy Hess, who is leaving to spend more time with her family. Hess was initially hired as Public Services director and in May 2020, Mayor Fischer asked her to oversee all the city’s Public Safety agencies. Golden’s hiring restores the Public Services structure in place before that.
Louisville Metro Council News
Metro Council Budget Committee Announces Hearing Schedule for FY22 Capital and Operating Budgets
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 22, 2021) – Louisville Metro Council’s Budget Committee has released its schedule for reviewing Mayor Greg Fischer’s proposed 2021-2022 Capital and Operating Budgets.
The Committee will review the proposal over the months of May and June. The Metro Council extended the budget review process by an extra month beginning in 2017, in order to hear from the public and thoroughly review and discuss the budget for each department and agency of Metro Government.
“While the pandemic has dramatically affected the financial condition of many individuals, families and businesses, Louisville’s economy as a whole has held up much better than we feared at this time last year. That is reflected in the budget proposed today. Tax receipts, combined with federal funds and reduced expenses, will allow us to invest in human services, public safety and infrastructure. The Budget Committee will have thirty hearings to determine how best to spend the funds available to us,” says Councilman Bill Hollander (D-9), Chair of the Committee.
“We have accepted the challenge of finding efficiencies and streamlining services during years in which revenues were limited. Today we face a much better outlook, but our focus on rightsizing government as well as addressing long deferred infrastructure needs must take precedence. I am hopeful that the Metro Council will use these two months of hearings as an opportunity to continue our work towards a budget that better positions our community for today and for future generations,” says Councilman Kevin Kramer (R-11), Budget Committee Vice Chair.
The Committee begins budget hearings on Monday, May 3, at 3:00 pm, with an overview of the proposed budget, focusing on projected Revenue, Operations, Capital and Debt, followed by a presentation on Human Resources.
Under a declaration issued by the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness to slow the spread of COVID-19, public access to Historic City Hall has been limited.
As a result of, and in accordance with, this directive, Metro Council meetings, including all Budget Committee meetings, are open to the public through remote access only. The public may watch the proceedings live on Metro TV, Spectrum Cable Channel 184, on UVERSE at Channel 99, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LouisvilleMetroCouncil. Proceedings may also be streamed live from the Metro Council Clerk’s Archived Media page at http://louisville.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=2.
While the pandemic prevents the public from attending Budget Committee meetings in person, the Committee will be taking public comments. An online form for written comments will be available on May 3 on the Metro Council Clerk’s website at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council/metro-council-clerk. Comments will be taken through May 31.
The Committee schedule also includes two opportunities for the public to speak about the budget, via WebEx.
May 13, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. (A link on the Metro Council Clerk website will be active to sign up to speak on May 12 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
May 27, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. (A link on the Metro Council Clerk website will be active to sign up to speak on May 26 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.)
All applicants for External Agency fundng o wish to speak about their applications or funding (it is not required) are strongly encouraged to speak on May 13.
Here are highlights of the 2021 Budget Hearing Schedule:
Public Health & Wellness – Monday, May 17 at 4:00 pm
Office for Safe & Healthy Neighborhoods – Monday, May 17 at 5:30 pm
LMPD – Tuesday, May 18 at 4:30 pm
Public Works & Assets – Wednesday, May 19 at 3:00 pm
Louisville Free Public Library – Tuesday, May 25 at 4:00 pm
Parks & Recreation - Tuesday, May 25 at 5:00 pm
Louisville Forward, to include Economic Development, Develop Louisville, Codes & Regulations and the Affordable Housing Trust Fund - Wednesday, May 26 at 3:00 pm
Louisville Fire – Thursday, May 27 at 4:00 pm
Resilience & Community Services – Tuesday, June 8 at 4:30 pm
Metro Council Meeting to Adopt FY 22 Budget – Thursday, June 24 at 6:00 pm
Buy Black Lou launches portal to increase Black-owned vendor and supplier visibility
City contributed $50,000 to start the Black Contractors Network
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 20, 2021) – With technical and financial support from Louisville Metro Government, Buy Black Lou, LLC has expanded its already thriving Black Business App to include a new network designed to increase supplier diversity by making it easier for companies to connect with Black-owned contractors in the city.
The new Black Contractors Network, which Louisville Forward supported with technical assistance and a $50,000 grant, allows Black-owned businesses such as carpenters, electricians and landscapers to create a profile making themselves available for companies and organizations looking for their services. Conversely, companies and organizations looking for contractors can create a profile to list jobs/projects for bid and to review resumes that companies post. Contractors and employers can also communicate with one another over the Network.
Buy Black Lou developer and owner Tanika Bryant, a self-taught coder, is calling on businesses large and small to populate the new site with their profiles. “This labor of love is so needed and even though I didn’t know what it would become when I started it in 2019, I knew I was filling a critical need in the business community,” said Bryant.
“The city is proud to support Tanika’s vision and execution of the Black Contractors Network,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “What we hear repeatedly is that Black business owners struggle with a lack of capital, lack of advertising and lack of resources. This resource will make great strides in connecting Black-owned businesses to jobs that they are ready to bid on and execute.”
The portal is free to use by both contractors and employers.
Bryant started Buy Black Lou in 2019 as a Facebook group providing a place for Black-owned businesses to advertise their services and provide a central location to find Black businesses to patronize.
This effort complements other initiatives taken in the past year to help invest in more equitable economic development. Greater Louisville Inc. yesterday launched the Racial Equity Pledge and toolkit for employers, Louisville Metro Government and institutional partners formed the Equity in Contracting and Procurement Task Force, which will work to increase the level of expenditures with Minority-, Female- and Disabled-owned Business Enterprises through supplier diversity initiatives, and the city currently has an open Request For Proposals for the creation or expansion of a Minority Business Incubator.
To view the Black Contractors Network, create a business profile, submit a resume or list a job, please visit https://blackcontractorsnetwork.com/
Enrollment now open for Spring LIHEAP
(Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services is now taking applications for an added Spring Subsidy program for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis through June 30, 2021, or until designated funds are depleted.
Residents wishing to apply must schedule an appointment utilizing the automated appointment scheduler at 502/991-8391 or visit www.louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.
Applicants must be residents of Jefferson County with a household income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. The benefit amount awarded is based on a household’s income and primary fuel type. Benefits are paid directly to the utility vendor (i.e. LG&E).
For the Subsidy Component, residents can apply regardless of the status of their utility bills; it is not necessary to have a past-due amount.
Currently all LIHEAP offices remain closed to walk-in clients in accordance with CDC guidelines, therefore applicants will be requested to drop off all required documentations in a secured drop box at the LIHEAP office selected using the appointment system.
Note: Residents who were served during the recent LIHEAP Crisis Phase may still apply during LIHEAP Subsidy if they meet program eligibility requirements.
For more information including an income guideline chart, visit here. For a downloadable flyer, click here.
ORCS News
Metro COVID-19 Utility Assistance Program
Do you need help paying your LG&E bill? Eligible residents may qualify for up to $1,000 in utility assistance.
Eligibility includes: -Be a resident of Jefferson County -Have experienced a COVID-related economic hardship -Have a past due/delinquent LG&E electric or gas bill (arrearage must have occurred March 16, 2020 – March 31, 2021)
To apply: -Go to louisvilleministries.org and fill out an online application, or call 2-1-1 to connect with your local Community Ministry -Schedule appointment at 502-977-6636, or visit louisvilleky.gov/neighborhoodplace (click on COVID Assistance for the option to apply online)
Download this flyer for more details, or visit here.
Do you need help managing your money?
Louisville Metro Government, in partnership with LHOME, has launched a no-cost Financial Navigator Program. You can receive assistance and guidance over the phone to help you manage the financial impact of COVID-19. During your free 30-minute session, Navigators can help you address concerns including:
• Prioritizing daily expenses like housing, utilities, and food • Maximizing income through accessing benefits, emergency cash assistance, and emergency loans • Managing debt including credit cards, student loans, and child support • Avoiding predatory scams • Budgeting for future loss of income
JCPS Summer Learning: We have learning opportunities for every student this summer for PreK through Seniors in high school. Signups will be available in the coming weeks. We know summer learning can’t look like regular school if we want kids to come, so we are offering a variety of different camp-style programs that will get kids engaged in learning and provide several hours per day of math and reading instruction as well. Some programming will be available online for families who choose that option, but we are committed to providing quality, in-person learning. Learn more here, and be on the lookout for information from me on signups! We are hoping to have at least 10,000 kids in summer learning programs.
Graduation Ceremonies: Additionally, we are so happy to be able to hold in-person graduations this year for our seniors. While capacity will be limited and we will have to adapt to follow CDC guidelines, we know that this will be a special time for our graduating students. Be sure to follow along with graduations in your area online! Click here for more information.
Are you interested in joining a community of fresh produce lovers?
New Roots is a local nonprofit organization connecting families to affordable, fresh food through their biweekly Fresh Stop Markets. Starting in June and going through October, interested families can come to their neighborhood Fresh Stop Market (or nearby) and pick up a big bag of nine varieties of seasonal produce every other week. All families must pre-order and pay one week ahead of each biweekly market, using automatic recurring payments of SNAP or Debit/Credit. The time to sign up is now!
We have eight Kentuckiana locations this season: West Louisville (Park DuValle and California), Old Louisville, Shelby Park, Hikes Point, Berrytown, Portland, Southern Indiana (New Albany) and one in Hazard, Kentucky. Bags (we call them shares) are $6 for families paying with SNAP Benefits/P-EBT cards and $12 for those with limited resources paying with credit/debit cards. Everyone gets the same bag of nine varieties of fresh, seasonal, organic and chemical-free produce, no matter what they pay, for $40 worth of fresh goodies. There are opportunities for the entire family to volunteer as well. Signups have started and there is a limited amount of produce so don’t hesitate to get involved. Everyone must sign up in advance. You can download the app on your smartphone (put New Roots Fresh Stop Market in the search bar of the App Store or Google Play Store on your mobile smart phone), or go here www.tinyurl.com/NewRootsiOS on your iPhone or www.tinyurl.com/NewRootsGooglePlay on your Android. Please contact New Roots at 502-509-6770 and/or email info@newroots.org for more information or if you run into challenges with the mobile app.
There is more information on our website: www.newroots.org including a FAQ section.
Inviting Louisville Young People of Color!
100 Black Men of Louisville, Inc. invites Metro Louisville young people of color ages 16-24 to participate in the Summer 2021 C.O.R.E. Virtual Program. The C.O.R.E. (Career Orientations, Resources & Exploration) Program is an seven-week program for young people of color that aims to provide career exploration, job coaching skills and business writing portfolio development. This program also offers networking opportunities with professionals and businesses around the country.
This program will begin on June 12, 2021 and concludes on July 31, 2021. Participants will receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program. This summer program is free of charge for the participants.
This program is co-sponsored by DevonshireSmith Diversity and Education Solutions (DVS).
Please complete the attached forms, scan and send back to info@dvseducation.org or send via snail mail to 100 Black Men of Louisville, Inc., 9505 Williamsburg Plaza, Louisville, KY, 40222 by June 4, 2021!
For more information about the 2021 C.O.R.E. Virtual Summer Program, please contact the 100 Black Men of Louisville at info@100BMOL.org.
Mayor Fischer and local leaders kick off SummerWorks 2021
Louisville youth 16-21 can now register online for help getting a summer job
LOUISVILLE, KY (March 18, 2021) - Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer today joined Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) Superintendent Dr. Marty Pollio, Greater Louisville Inc. (GLI) President and CEO Sarah Davasher-Wisdom, and other community partners at the YouthBuild Louisville headquarters downtown to announce the start of SummerWorks 2021.
“As we kick off the 11th season of SummerWorks, it’s amazing to see the impact this program has made and the resilience it has shown,” said the Mayor, who praised the SummerWorks team for finding innovative ways to operate despite the challenging circumstances presented by COVID-19. “This year, we have an opportunity to keep building on our strong foundation to make it the best season yet for youth and employers.”
The Mayor drew attention to a new set of online tools available to SummerWorks participants this season, which will make it easier than ever for youth to get prepared for and connected to good summer jobs. He also highlighted the partnerships SummerWorks has forged in recent years with the Academies of Louisville at JCPS and GLI, who have embraced the common goal of building the nation’s leading talent pipeline.
“JCPS values our partnership with SummerWorks and the hundreds of students who have received real, paying jobs through this program,” Pollio said. “We’re looking forward to the expansion of our partnership this summer.”
"GLI is always proud to support SummerWorks and its impact on Louisville’s youth,” said Davasher-Wisdom. “Our youth are the future of our workforce, and it is imperative we continue investing in their learning and education. These opportunities are also important to keeping talent in our city and growing a well-rounded homegrown workforce.”
One example of a young person who has benefited is Sheikhnoor Hussein, a student in the IT and Law Academy at Waggener High School, who has worked in the IT Department at Humana the past two summers. Sheikhnoor, whose family immigrated to the United States from Somalia, said his SummerWorks experience at Humana gave him valuable professional experience and improved his collaboration skills. “SummerWorks also helped me see what kinds of careers and jobs might be out there for me,” he said.
Promoting equity will continue to be a priority for SummerWorks in 2021. Youth applicants who face barriers and come from disadvantaged backgrounds are prioritized in the job-matching process to ensure that those who are most in need of a good summer job have a better chance of landing one. SummerWorks is also continuing to sponsor jobs and work-learn experiences at nonprofits and agencies across the community that share this commitment to equity.
All Louisville youth who are between the ages of 16-21 (as of June 1) are eligible to enroll in SummerWorks. Once they register online and complete a new virtual job readiness training course, youth will be able to apply for job opportunities geared toward them.
SummerWorks, which was founded by Mayor Fischer in 2011 after federal funding for summer jobs was eliminated, has directly placed Louisville youth in more than 6,700 summer jobs. The program’s core operating funds are approved by the Louisville Metro Council. Private donations sponsor jobs for youth in greatest need of the opportunity. Those contributors include the James Graham Brown Foundation, JPMorgan Chase, the Gingko Foundation, the Community Foundation of Louisville, the Diaz Family Foundation, and other organizations and individuals.
SummerWorks is operated by YouthBuild Louisville in partnership with KentuckianaWorks, the Louisville Region’s Workforce Development Board. To learn more about SummerWorks and how to get involved as a participant, employer, or supporter, visit www.summerworks.org.
How to purchase vacant or abandoned property in Louisville
Have you ever thought about buying a vacant or abandoned property in Louisville? The city has many vacant or abandoned lots and buildings for sale at all times. If you’re a contractor or fixer-upper, you might consider buying an abandoned home to rehab. Once you fix it up, you could live in it or sell it for a profit. Or you may want to buy a vacant lot or a property in need of demolition, and build a new home. Other properties are suitable for starting a community garden or other agricultural project.
To manage the sale of vacant or abandoned properties, the city has a program called The Landbank Authority. The program’s goal is to put these properties back into productive use. The Landbank currently has about 500 properties available for sale and some are available for as little as $1. But in order to purchase properties, you must be able to prove to the Landbank that you can pay to refurbish or demolish the property, and you must complete the project within a set deadline. To see what’s available, visit the Landbank website. https://louisvilleky.gov/government/community-development/purchase-vacant-property-landbank You’ll see two links, one for Lots and one for Structures. Choose Lots to view empty lots for sale and an explanation of the types of programs, including “Adjacent Side Yard”; “Cut It, Keep It”; “New Construction”; and “Agricultural Projects”. Choose Structures to see a list of vacant houses and other buildings for sale. Landbank has two categories for the sale of structures: “Save the Structure” and “Demo for Deed”. To save a structure, you must prove you have funds to rehab it and you must complete renovations within six months for exterior and 18 months for interior renovations. To buy a "Demo for Deed," you must simply prove you have funds to demolish the property.
Both the Lots and Structures pages have links and instructions to apply for purchase when you’re ready. Speaking of funds, that’s where we come in. At LHOME, we can’t help you purchase a property but we can help you renovate one. Qualified property owners can borrow up to $30,000 for 12 months, paying only interest on the loan. After the year is up, you can sell your renovated property or refinance it.
To learn more, please visit lhomeky.org or give us a call at 502-882-8091. One last tip: The city has a great tool called Lojic (lojic.org). Lojic lets you search by address for a specific property you want to know more about. Just type the address in the search bar and you’ll get reports about the property owner, the assessed value, zoning, voting district and more. Happy hunting!
Louisville Metro Parks and Recreation News
For a look at our COVID-19 protocols, please click here.
Looking for a safe, fun job? -- It's Time to Get in the Swing of Things!
Louisville Parks and Recreation is looking for part-time help at two of the city’s municipal golf courses -- Cherokee and Bobby Nichols. This is a perfect job for a retiree, college student or someone who has retail experience and enjoys being around the game of golf.
Louisville Parks and Recreation is also seeking employees for several part-time seasonal positions including help at our community centers, operations and maintenance work, lifeguards at outdoor pools and at Jefferson Memorial Forest. To start the pre-employment screening process and view job opportunities, please click here.
For more information, please call (502) 574-7275 (PARK) and ask for the Human Resources Department.
Spraygrounds and Spraypads Are Now Open for Spring/Summer 2021
Our spray grounds are open and provide the perfect way to cool off on a hot, sunny day! All spraygrounds and spraypads are open from dawn to dusk, unless notified otherwise.
Park it Here Podcast named "Top 10 Parks and Recreation Podcasts on the Web"
We’re excited to announce the Park It Here - Louisville Parks and Recreation Podcast has been selected by Feedspot Blog Reader as one of the Top 10 Parks and Recreation Podcasts on the web.
You may also sign up for projects through your MyImpactPage.com account or the My Impact app.
Petco Love Awards Louisville Metro Animal Services Grant for Live-Saving Work
Grant of $20,000 will be used for spay-neuter medical vouchers
LOUISVILLE, KY (April 28, 2021) – Louisville Metro Animal Services (LMAS) announces it will use a $20,000 grant awarded by the non-profit Petco Love to continue its life-saving efforts by offering medical vouchers for spay-neuter services.
“Hundreds of pets that may not have been spayed or neutered will be because Petco Love’s investment eases the financial burden that may be preventing an owner from scheduling the surgery,” said Ashley Book, LMAS interim shelter director. “We never want turn away a responsible pet owner who wants to get their pet spayed or neutered but may not be able afford it.”
Spaying and neutering pets in our community is a key component to reducing the stray pet population and preventing shelter overcrowding. Grants provide additional funding so LMAS can offer spay-neuter vouchers for pets that are not currently being cared for at the shelter, which contributed to LMAS not euthanizing any animals for lack of time or space in 2020, for the fourth consecutive year.
Spaying and neutering not only prevents unwanted litters of puppies and kittens, it has health benefits including reducing the risk of certain cancers and a calmer pet, while dogs will be less likely to roam. LMAS spayed and neutered 2, 910 animals in 2020 but is not able to offer spay-neuter services to the public. Many local animal welfare organizations were forced to limit or stop offering affordable spay-neuter service, because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Spay-neuter vouchers cover up to $100 of the cost to have the procedure done at a local veterinary clinic or hospital. Vouchers are limited to one per household. Jefferson County pet owners who need assistance providing medical care, food or shelter for their pet is encouraged to visit the intake office at the LMAS Shelter, located at 3528 Newburg Road. The shelter is open Monday-Saturday from 12-6pm. To contact the intake office, send an email to animals@louisvilleky.gov or call 502-473-PETS.
PARC to resume booting vehicles with three or more citations on July 1
Booting was paused in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic
LOUISVILLE, KY (May 3, 2021) – The Parking Authority of the River City (PARC) announced today that, in accordance with Louisville Metro Code Ordinances 72.128, the booting of vehicles with three or more outstanding citations will once again be enforced starting July 1. Due to many hardships that came from the COVID-19 pandemic, booting was paused in March 2020.
“PARC was very intentional last year in pausing normal operations due to the unique challenges brought by the pandemic, and we knew that booting a vehicle could exacerbate those challenges,” said PARC Director Tiffany Peebles. “With vaccine numbers increasing and more activity taking place in the central business district, we will be returning to our regular procedure of booting vehicles that have three or more outstanding citations. Appeal opportunities remain available.”
If after July 1, a vehicle is issued its third or more citation, the vehicle will be booted. In addition, if a vehicle was issued three citations prior to the pandemic but was not booted due to the pause in booting, that vehicle remains qualified to be booted after July 1.
Citations are issued to encourage drivers to pay parking meters and adhere to parking guidelines, which leads to an increase in safety and economic development. If citation fines are not paid, booting is the next step.
To pay a parking citation, PARC offers several options, including using the Go502 app, paying online at louisvilleky.gov/PARC, calling (888) 757-2616, mailing the payment to PARC’s office or paying in person. A $3.50 convenience fee will be added to the payment if done online or by phone, and a $1.50 fee will be added if paid through the Go502 app.
To appeal a citation, drivers can file an appeal at louisvilleky.gov/PARC, or download the appeal form from louisvilleky.gov/PARC and submit that form via fax at 569-6611 or mail/bring it to PARC’s office.
PARC’s office is located at 222 S. 1st Street, Suite 106, and is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. To reach PARC by phone, call (502) 587-7275.
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.
Louisville Metro Department of Public Works' Solid Waste Enforcement officers cited the owner of a vehicle used for illegally dumping debris on Louisville Avenue in south Louisville last week. The officers received information from concerned citizens who took a video of the contractor and reported it to the office of Councilwoman Nicole George. The officers were able to locate the owner of the vehicle Monday morning, where they were able to issue the citation and impound the vehicle. The citation included a fine and fee of $750. To gain release of the vehicle the contractor must also pay $250 for impound towing fees, costing the illegal dumper $1,000. This is an example of how empowered citizens can take an active role in keeping their neighborhood and city clean.
Did you know…? All these fees can be avoided by NOT dumping illegally, since a pickup truckload of accepted debris can be disposed of legally at theWaste Reduction Center, located at 636 Meriwether Avenue, for only $60.00. Plus up to three large household items can be dropped off for free there!
Pop-Up Drop-Offs are free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County
Pop-Up Drop-Offs are free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County. Through a partnership between the Department of Public Works, the Waste Management District, and Metro Council, these events are held monthly, March through November, at various locations to give residents a choice for their convenience. The goal is to give all Jefferson County residents opportunities to dispose of unwanted items properly and to keep as much material out of the landfill as possible.
The first two events of 2021 were a huge success! The event at Sun Valley Ball Field on March 27 was our largest yet with nearly 700 vehicles and 70 tons of bulky waste disposed. Over 400 vehicles attended the April 24 event at Metro Fleet Services on Newburg Road. We document zip codes and waste categories for each vehicle. As shown on the maps, residents from all over the county have attended the events, but most participants come from the surrounding area.
Our next event will be at Eastern High School on May 22. Residents can have documents shredded, recycle up to three electronic items, up to four passenger tires, household recyclables, and scrap metal, dispose of prescription medication and bulky items, and compost yard debris (which must meet curbside guidelines). Items must be separated into those various categories for easy off-loading at each area. Find the 2021 schedule and more details about the limitations and guidelines at Louisvilleky.gov/PopUps.
You don’t have to wait! Residents can recycle up to three electronic devices, up to four tires, and dispose of up to three large household items for free year-round at the Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue.
Report Street Light Outages to LG&E
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 and stay vigilant!
The city has seen an increase of illegal activity, including vandalism, vehicle thefts, items stolen from vehicles, and gun shots reported over the past year. Here are several tips from LMPD that may seem simple but could be very effective in preventing crime in our neighborhoods!
Immediately report any suspicious person, activity (gunshots), or vehicles to (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-TIPS. This is not just for vehicle vandalism but drug activity, home/garage vandalism, gun shots - ANY suspicious activity! Make a police report!
- Never leave anything of value in your vehicle; this includes laptops, purses, GPS devices, and even loose change. - Always lock your vehicle doors. - Remove garage door openers from vehicles usually parked outside. - Do not leave your keys in your vehicle. Do not warm up your vehicles without you in them! - Do not leave the windows of you vehicle open, or partially open. - Consider additional lighting around your property; try to park your vehicle in a well-lit area. - Never leave a firearm unprotected in your vehicle.
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).
Serving households in the 40213, 40218 & 40219 Zip Codes Only
First Come, First Served Basis
Picture ID & proof of residency required!
Sponsored By:
Peace Presbyterian Church
4210 East Indian Trail
Louisville, KY 40213
Louisville Free Public Library News
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All Libraries are now open for in-person “Grab & Go” access to library materials
Computer access is now available at all locations without an appointment. Click here for more information.
Curbside pickup of library materials is available at all locations. For more information, visit lfpl.org/curbside or call (502) 574-1611.
Request a Book Bundle for your family or yourself. See lfpl.org/bookbundles for more information.
Recently expired and soon-to-be expired library cards can be renewed in-person by visiting any library location.
For up-to-date information on the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, go to kycovid19.ky.gov. Click here for info on community assistance and other resources.
Shakespeare in the Park returns to Petersburg Park on May 8th at 2:00PM!
A message from Matt Wallace, Producing Artistic Director Kentucky Shakespeare
Good news!
Louisville Metro Parks has just given permission for all of our Shakespeare in the Parks tours!
We’re looking forward to the Petersburg Park performance - Saturday, May 8 at 2:00PM.
We’ll be required to close off the audience area with our rope and stakes and will have one entry point, and we’ll have extra front of house staff to help out.
Metro Parks also requires that we ask people to RSVP in advance if possible, to collect name/contact info for health department if needed for contact tracing. But we will also be able to welcome and register people at the park just showing up. They’ll just need to give their name and contact info upon arrival.
We’ve created an RSVP link specific to the show at Petersburg Park, and it will go live the day before the performance - May 7. That will ensure higher likelihood that people will show up and will know what their plans are, etc.
We also have all of the parks and RSVP links on our site at https://kyshakespeare.com/season/parkstour/ if you would like to attend a performance at one of the other parks around the city.
Looking forward to serving your district with Romeo and Juliet!
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