District 2 Newsletter (July 30, 2021)

Barbara Shanklin

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 6:00PM when we meet with LMPD, and 6:30PM to share with Councilwoman Dr. Barbara Shanklin.

JOIN US ON ZOOM THIS MONTH TO MEET WITH LMPD AND COUNCILWOMAN SHANKLIN:

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Don't forget to save the date!:  Newburg Day Festival 2021 will be one day only, August 21st, in Petersburg Park.  Family friendly activities, the traditional parade, vendors, music, and entertainment!

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Team KY

 

 

COVID-19: Data in Kentucky

Current as of July 30, 2021

Kentucky Coronavirus Monitoring

Number Tested: 7,175,647 (PCR:  5,650,503  -  Serology:  347,457  -  Antigen:  1,034,496)*
Positive: 481,001 (Probable:  121,315  -  Lab Confirmed:  359,686)

Deaths: 7,327 (Probable: 761 - Lab Confirmed: 6,566)

Positivity Rate: 8.55%**

*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.

Jefferson County Coronavirus Monitoring:

As of July 30th, we have confirmed 84,747 cases, 1,333 deaths, and 43,881 recovered in Jefferson County. Here’s the link to the Louisville Metro COVID-19 dashboard: https://covid-19-in-jefferson-county-ky-lojic.hub.arcgis.com/

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

covid plan mar 2021
confirmed cases july 30 2021
Red counties recommendations

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Gov Beshear

Latest News from Gov. Beshear and the Commonwealth of Kentucky

Gov. Beshear Takes Action to Protect Kentucky Families and Unprecedented Economic Progress

Based on federal guidance, school districts should require universal indoor masking

FRANKFORT, KY (July 29, 2021) – On Thursday during his Team Kentucky Update, Gov. Andy Beshear announced new COVID-19 precautions based on updated guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“With the delta variant spreading across the U.S. and only 62% of Kentuckians ages 18 or older vaccinated, right now our answer is: Masks plus vaccines equals victory over COVID,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are strong enough and resilient enough to do this. We are compassionate enough to know we have to do this.”

The Governor said his first priority is to ensure safe, in-person instruction in our schools for the maximum number of days. His second priority is to continue the commonwealth’s unprecedented economic progress.

Gov. Beshear and state officials expect that, without mitigation efforts, the delta variant will spread through unvaccinated workplaces and classrooms, disrupting education and slowing economic growth through loss of productivity and frequent quarantines. Therefore, he announced:

K-12 Return to School Guidance Updated to Reflect CDC Guidance: Gov. Beshear said school districts should require universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Children should return to full-time, in-person learning in the fall with layered strategies in place to prevent COVID-19 infection and transmission.

Masks Required in State Office Buildings: The Governor said masks will now be required at all state office buildings, regardless of vaccination status.

“I’m fully vaccinated, but I’m still my brothers’ and sisters’ keeper. I still believe in loving my neighbor as I would myself, so I’m going to mask up,” said Gov. Beshear. “I promised when I became Governor that I would lead by example.”

COVID-19 Update
Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, said from March 1 to July 28, 2021, 94.5% of COVID-19 cases, 91.8% of COVID-19 hospitalizations and 88.8% of COVID-19 deaths were among partially vaccinated or unvaccinated Kentuckians.

“We have changed in the blink of an eye from a quiet, calm state to a horribly inflamed state,” said Dr. Stack. “We all know what we need to do, and that’s to get vaccinated. I’m not begging folks. I’m wondering why folks wouldn’t want to be protected. The vaccines are at no additional costs to you, and they protect you from all of these harms. It’s puzzling why folks wouldn’t do it.”

Today, five local health department directors joined Gov. Beshear and Dr. Stack to discuss COVID-19 mitigation efforts: Denise Beach, director of the Hopkins County Health Department; Greg Brewer, director of the Gateway District Health Department; Mark Hensley, director of the Laurel County Health Department; Dr. Crystal Miller, DrPH, director of the WedCo District Health Department; and Dr. Sarah Moyer, MD, director of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness.

“I want us all to take ourselves back to that moment in time in March, because I think that we all had the same goal in common that we knew without a shadow of a doubt that we would do whatever it took to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe,” said Dr. Miller. “Somehow we’ve grayed those lines. We’ve gotten away from that mission. It’s been a long 16 months. It’s frustrating. It’s exhausting. But the difference between March 6 and today is that we have a solution. We know exactly what works: vaccines and masking.”

The Governor encouraged all Kentuckians 12 and older to get a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine and then sign up for a chance to win $1 million or a full college scholarship at ShotAtAMillion.ky.gov. One $1 million winner and five full-scholarship winners have already been selected. On both July 30 and Aug. 27, another $1 million winner and five more full-scholarship winners will be announced.

So far, 692,205 vaccinated Kentuckians have signed up for the $1 million drawing and 40,934 vaccinated youth have signed up for the full scholarship drawing.

Kentucky’s Economy, Workforce Charge Ahead
Gov. Beshear highlighted three major economic and workforce development announcements, including the largest investment in the Western Kentucky region in more than 25 years. In 2021, companies have announced more than 60 projects totaling more than $2.6 billion in investment and creating 5,500 jobs. More than 1,500 jobs have been announced in the last 11 days alone.

“This is how we make sure we are never seen as a ‘flyover’ state again. We have more opportunity now than at any point in my lifetime, and we have to grasp it,” said Gov. Beshear.

Area Technology Center to Serve Estill and Powell Counties: On Friday, Gov. Beshear celebrated the grand opening of a $14.7 million technology center that will serve hundreds of high school and technical college students and provide training for displaced workers seeking new career paths. To learn more, see the full release.

Fruit of the Loom Expansion in Bowling Green: Today, Gov. Beshear announced Bowling Green-based Fruit of the Loom plans to expand its existing distribution center in Warren County and create 50 full-time job opportunities. To learn more, see the full release.

Pratt Paper Announces Historic $400 Million Investment in Henderson: Today, Gov. Beshear and Anthony Pratt, executive chairman of Pratt Industries, announced the company’s new $400 million paper mill, a project committed to creating 321 well-paying jobs over the next five years. Pratt joined Gov. Beshear’s press conference via video.

Pratt’s investment is the largest investment in this region of Kentucky in more than 25 years, the largest in the state in nearly two years and the third largest job-creation announcement of 2021. The project further propels Kentucky’s recent wave of economic growth toward a sustainable future with quality job opportunities for residents across the state.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
Today, the Governor recognized two groups of Team Kentucky All-Stars.

First, he congratulated two Kentuckians who just became Olympic gold medalists.

“Lee Kiefer, a medical student at the University of Kentucky (UK), not only won gold in women’s individual foil, but made history as the first U.S. woman to win an Olympic medal in this event,” said Gov. Beshear. “In addition, Will Shaner won the air rifle gold medal and set an Olympic record. Will was a three-time All-American as a college athlete at UK. On behalf of the entire commonwealth, we are so proud of you.”

The Governor also celebrated Kentucky high school students who spent this summer at the Governor’s Scholars Program, Governor’s School for the Arts or the Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs.

“Your Lieutenant Governor and I have been so inspired by meeting many of you and we can’t wait to watch you lead our commonwealth into the future,” said Gov. Beshear. “We’re rooting for you as you work toward your next goals and enjoy the friendships you’ve made this summer that I hope will last a lifetime.”

COVID-19 Vaccinations - 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.


Mayor Fischer

Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville

City leaders announce four-phase plan to transition unsheltered from streets to sustainable housing

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 28, 2021) — Louisville Metro Government (LMG) leaders today provided updates on plans to help transition residents who are unsheltered from the streets and into stable housing, potentially by leveraging American Rescue Plan funds.

Today’s sessions with advocates for residents who are unsheltered and business leaders, led by LMG Chief of Community Building Vincent James and facilitated by the Office for Performance Improvement, focused on the city’s development of a four-phase plan to address chronic street homelessness through immediate, intermediate, and long-term solutions:

  • A pilot initiative to establish and manage an area that would provide a Safe Outdoor Space, including supportive wrap-around services designed to help people experiencing homelessness to find more sustainable housing.
  • A transitional housing effort, potentially in a hotel/motel setting, offering a quick transition to indoor housing within a safe, supportive, and client-centered environment. 
  • More permanent supportive housing options, developed in partnership with service providers.
  • Increased funding for affordable housing.

James said the city’s plan is a holistic, integrated approach based on research and best practices implemented in other communities.

“Our intention anytime we encounter a person experiencing homelessness is to get them off the street, into a shelter and on a path to permanent, supportive housing. But there is no one-size-fits-all solution,” James said. “Instead, we will continue working with partners, including the Coalition for the Homeless, on a multi-step strategy to provide shelter and services designed to lead to stabilization and self-sufficiency.”

That message was shared today in two sessions – one for homeless advocates and service providers, and another for business leaders. Mayor Greg Fischer’s team, in partnership with Metro Council, asked both groups for their input and support as implementation of the four-phase plan gets under way, starting with the safe outdoor space initiative.

Mayor Fischer expressed his gratitude to advocates and other community partners, and noted that a number of people who’ve weighed in on how the city’s ARP funds should be used have cited addressing homelessness and affordable housing as top priorities.

“A compassionate city looks out for its most vulnerable residents, and this plan can lead to the results that residents and business leaders demand, and that everyone, including those unsheltered, deserve,” Mayor Fischer said. “We’re looking forward to working closely with the dedicated homeless advocates, compassionate nonprofits, and business partners to effectively address what is a tremendous challenge for cities across the nation. These initiatives require resources, and we will be talking with the community and Metro Council on the potential use of federal ARP funding to support this plan.”

21-day notices resume

Also during today’s sessions, city officials shared that, as work continues to implement the Safe Outdoor Space initiative, the city will start assessing encampments, using a standardized risk assessment tool this week.  The risk assessments will measure a comprehensive array of factors used to drive decision-making related with the intensity of service provision offered and postings of 21-day notices. Decisions involving any 21-day notice posting will be based on risk involving health and safety concerns.

During the 21-day period following the notice, the city will accelerate its ongoing coordination with advocates and social services organizations to offer shelter and provide outreach services to the affected unsheltered residents. The 21-day notices are a requirement under the city's Homeless Protection Ordinance, which aims to give those who are unsheltered an opportunity to work with community partners for relocation options and housing solutions.  The 21-day notices only apply to encampments located on public property.

During the height of the COVID pandemic, the city observed shelter-in-place guidelines – cleaning but not clearing, in order to mitigate the spread of the virus and to help facilitate the distribution of vaccines. Since then, conditions at several camps have deteriorated, creating health and safety concerns. Such concerns – many of which come from the public through  Metro311 – are forwarded to the Louisville Metro Core Assessment team, made up of representatives of the Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS),Public Health and Wellness, Public Works, and LMPD. This team, along with non-profit and volunteer outreach groups, then provide targeted outreach to camp residents to connect them with supportive services, such as available emergency shelter beds, behavioral and mental health counseling, direct medical care treatment, drug and alcohol recovery centers, and/or housing navigation resources and case management options.

Today’s update complements other work that LMG has initiated in recent years to address street homelessness – including its Homelessness Task Force, the Louisville Metro-funded Unsheltered Homeless Initiatives, and just recently, addition of a Homeless Services Division with RCS, which provides administrative support.

For more information about unsheltered homeless initiatives and the new Homeless Services Division, visit louisvilleky.gov/RCS.

Louisville Metro Government awarded $10,000 AARP Community Challenge Grant

Grant will fund education around benefits of ADUs and regulations

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 28, 2021) – Louisville Metro Government will receive a $10,000 grant from AARP to educate the community on the benefits of accessory dwelling units for residents of all ages and to create greater awareness of new and existing requirements associated with them. District 21 Councilwoman Nicole George applied for the AARP Community Challenge Grant on behalf of the city.

An accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is a smaller, secondary dwelling located on the same property as a main home. In June, as part of the ongoing equity review of the Land Development Code (LDC), Metro Council approved a regulation change that will open the door for more property owners to build ADUs on their land for family to use or to rent out, creating greater housing diversity in Louisville.

Fewer than 4 ADUs applications have been submitted Metro-wide each year for the last 10 years. Meanwhile, research shows that ADUs are an affordable housing option for renters, generate rental income for homeowners, allow seniors to remain in their homes and age in place, can house people at all stages of their life, use less energy, and require fewer resources to build and maintain than full-sized homes.

“Thank you to Councilwoman Nicole George and her staff for taking the initiative to apply for this grant on behalf of Louisville Metro Government and to AARP for funding it,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “As we move forward with additional reforms to the Land Development Code aimed at rectifying the historical inequities built into cities’ land use policies, it is important that we hear from residents every step of the way.”

The LDC is a set of rules that regulates development and what can be done with private property. Many elements within the LDC have not been revised since the early 1960s and continue to incorporate discriminatory policies first introduced in 1931.

Metro Council voted in June to allow the Office of Planning and Design Services staff to review applications to build ADUs, including accessory apartments, rather than requiring them to go through the lengthier conditional use permit process if one of the units is owner occupied.

“I want to thank Director Emily Liu from Planning and Design Services for being willing to innovate! This grant was selected from amongst 3,560 Challenge applications nationwide. It gives us as Metro Government the opportunity to be intentional with our communications in order to promote the benefits ADUs and the process for having one,” said Councilwoman George. “My hope is that this method will become a model for sharing with the public land use changes within our city.”

Planning & Design Services will use the grant funds to hire a contractor to produce a marketing strategy plan for spreading community awareness of current ADU policies and reform efforts. The plan will include social media outreach, a community sentiment survey, the production of educational materials, and the gathering of community member experiences related to ADUs.

Louisville Metro Council and the Planning Commission announced the full-scale equity review of the Land Development Code in July 2020. Following months of community input and research, Planning & Design Services staff released its first set of recommended LDC reforms in February, and in June, Metro Council approved the change to the ADU application process, as well as the following:

  • Requiring notices be mailed to residents, as well as property owners, so residents, including renters, are better informed about potential development that could impact them; and
  • Revising current zoning requirements to reduce obstacles to creating market gardens, community gardens and similar uses.

For more information about efforts to reform the Land Development Code, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/ldcreform.

Mayor highlights FY22 budget investments for city’s youth 

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 22, 2021) – Mayor Greg Fischer today joined Metro Councilman Jecorey Arthur, Dr. Billie Castle with the Office of Youth Development, KentuckianaWorks Executive Director Michael Gritton, SummerWorks Program Director Chris Locke, and Brittany Brown with the Coalition Supporting Young Adults to highlight the fiscal year 2022 budget investments benefiting the city’s youth.

“It is critical that we provide more pathways to create and foster opportunity for our youth because we know every young person deserves the chance to cultivate their talents and reach their full potential,” said the Mayor. “My office and our Metro Council are fully committed and invested in not only educating underserved youth on their options but helping them reach their goals and fulfill their dreams, thus planting the seed and building the foundation for success.”

The approved FY22 budget focuses on a “whole-of-government” approach to becoming a safer, cleaner and healthier city.  This includes investing in youth, especially underserved youth, with investments in post-secondary education and workforce development initiatives, as well as investments in organizations that provide much needed support systems for young people.

Acknowledging that education is the No. 1 disrupter of poverty, this year’s budget invests $3 million in Evolve502 Promise scholarships and doubles the budget for SummerWorks to $1 million. The budget also doubles the funding to support the city’s Office of Youth Development (OYD). The $1 million expansion will fund staffing for community outreach to meet the unique needs of youth between age 10 – 15, ensuring they and their support systems are connected to resources.

“Louisville is home to a diverse population of young people who are innovative, thoughtful, resourceful, and shining stars,” said Dr. Castle, Youth Development Systems Administrator, Office of Youth Development. “With more than 145,000 youth residents, it is the OYD’s mission to ensure they live happy and healthy lives, by being the backbone of the youth development infrastructure for our city. The investment in OYD is an investment in creating opportunities to connect Louisville’s youth to recreational programs, services, and resources that help them achieve their goals.”

The budget also supports the expansion of the Louisville Youth Network, a one-stop shop for youth resources that the Mayor’s Office, Metro Council and community partners launched in the spring of 2021. OYD leads the Network with partners that include the Coalition Supporting Young Adults, the Louisville Urban League and Goodwill Industries of Kentucky. Since its launch in May, the Youth Network has handled 256 referrals, and 99 youth have been assigned an Empowerment Navigator. The expansion of the Network will broaden its reach to connect with youth ages 10-24, and youth who are not among those traditionally tracked as disconnected.

"There is a generation of young people in this community that need us to live up to the words and mantras we have espoused around this city for so long," said Sadiqa Reynolds, President and CEO of the Louisville Urban League. "Programs like the Louisville Youth Network are one way we can do that – intentionally connecting these young people to vital, beneficial resources based on their specific needs and desires, and not what the 'adults' think is best."

During today’s press conference, the Coalition Supporting Young Adults showcased one of five LouieConnect kiosks that have been placed in youth-focused locations to connect youth with vital resources. The kiosks are free to use and located at AMPED (1219 W. Jefferson St, Suite 206), Americana Community Center (4801 Southside Dr.), YouthBuild (800 S. Preston St.), California Community Center (1600 S. Catherine St.), and Southwick Community Center (3621 Southern Ave.)

The FY22 budget also invests in KentuckianaWorks’ Reimage program and the Kentucky Youth Career Center. The Reimage program helps break the cycle of incarceration and recidivism by connecting justice-involved youth to education, training and careers in key industries like IT and manufacturing. So far, more than 800 young people have enrolled in the Reimage program, and participants’ recidivism rate in their first year has remained under 10 percent. The national average is 44 percent.

“So that tells us this program works,” the Mayor said.

Since 2009, KentuckianaWorks has also run the Kentucky Youth Career Center, which has helped more than 3,000 young people navigate life challenges and access job and career readiness resources.

"The Reimage program and the Kentucky Youth Career Center are proud to be part of the Mayor and Metro Council's investment portfolio focused on helping young adults who are facing barriers gain the skills and support they need to build successful lives," said Michael Gritton, Executive Director of KentuckianaWorks, the region's Workforce Board. "We have helped thousands of young adults get their lives back on track through education and training programs, and by gaining employment, and we're excited to do more in the coming year as we recover from the pandemic and return to in-person services."

“An investment in our youth is an investment in our community’s success for now and in the future, making Louisville a safer, more prosperous and more equitable city,” said the Mayor. “I encourage our residents with young people in their lives, please reach out and connect them with these resources and resource providers.”

Find out more about these initiatives by visiting:

Office of Youth Development

Louisville Youth Network

Reimage

Kentucky Youth Career Center

SummerWorks

Evolve502

AMPED Business Incubator


louisville metro council

Louisville Metro Council News

Ad Hoc Committee on Redistricting set to redraw boundary lines for all 26 Metro Council Districts based on 2020 US Census Data

Committee invites the public to follow its work in the coming months

LOUISVILLE, KY – The Ad Hoc Committee on Redistricting is moving forward with its goal of redrawing boundary lines for all 26 Metro Council Districts based on 2020 US Census data. State law requires the Metro Council to act after the census is completed.

At its inaugural meeting on Wednesday, the Ad Hoc Committee announced a schedule of meetings to complete its work in time for new districts to be in place for the 2022 election cycle..

“The late arrival of Census data will dramatically compress the timeline for redistricting this year. Despite that challenge, we are committed to conducting the process fairly and openly and look forward to getting public input throughout,” said Councilman Markus Winkler (D-17), Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee.        

Pursuant to state statutes, Metro Council boundaries shall be drawn so that the districts are compact, contiguous and the population of each district shall be as nearly equal as is reasonably possible.  Whenever possible, each district shall respect existing neighborhood, community, and city boundaries. Boundaries must also satisfy federal constitutional requirements.

“In the past, the process for drawing our Metro Council districts has been one that is based on best serving the people of Louisville by placing a high value on maximizing representation, compactness and equity in each district’s makeup. I am hopeful that we will be able to continue that focus and build on those successes during this redistricting process,” said Councilman Anthony Piagentini (R-19), Vice-Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee.

Joining Winkler and Piagentini on the committee are the following council members: Jessica Green (D-1), Keisha Dorsey (D-3), Cassie Chambers Armstrong (D-8), Rick Blackwell (D-12), and James Peden (R-23).

The Ad Hoc Committee has announced the following meeting schedule. All meetings will be held beginning at 5:00 p.m. in Council Chambers on the following dates:

August 11

August 25

September 8

September 22

October 13

October 27

November 10

December 1

A special web page has been created on the Metro Council’s home page at Louisvilleky.gov to allow the public to follow the Ad Hoc Committee’s work. The page will provide updated information on meetings, how the public can comment, and future public hearings. To see the page, go to: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council/redistricting-information.

All the Ad Hoc Committee’s meetings will be carried live on Metro TV, Spectrum Cable Channel 184 or on UVERSE at Channel 99.

All meetings of the Metro Council are streamed live. Go to the Metro Council Home page at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council and click on the Metro Council Agendas link.


Office of Resilience and Community Services logo

ORCS News

City providing additional funding for its COVID-19 Utility Relief Fund

First $2.5 million will go to help LG&E customers

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 19, 2021) – Mayor Greg Fischer announced today that the city is making additional funding available for its COVID-19 Utility Relief Program, starting with $2.5 million to help residents who have fallen behind on Louisville Gas and Electric Company (LG&E) bills as a result of COVID-19.

The funds are designed to assist residents with a past-due amount on an active LG&E account. The outstanding balance must have occurred since March 16, 2020, and customers will need to attest they have had a financial hardship during the pandemic.

Customers with outstanding balances could receive a one-time credit for up to $1,000 on LG&E bills.

An additional $2.5 million will be shared with Louisville Water Co. in the coming weeks; details on that spending are not yet finalized.

Funding for the Utility Relief Program comes from the first round of Louisville’s Federal American Rescue Plan (ARP), which have been approved to address the city’s most urgent needs. The LG&E funds will be distributed by the city’s Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) via the Neighborhood Place network.

“We know financial hardships related to COVID-19 created a high demand for utility assistance, and we have worked with our partners to get people back on track,” said Fischer. “As Louisville continues to recover from the impact of COVID, many households continue to face hardships. We are grateful to utilize this first round of money from the Federal American Rescue Plan to help stabilize our most vulnerable households.”

Earlier in 2021, Louisville assisted more than 11,400 LG&E customers with outstanding balances with $6 million in utility assistance. In addition, Louisville Water Co. was able to provide $4 million in relief to 11,765 residential customers utilizing a new Louisville Metro COVID Relief Portal. Funding for these programs was made possible through general fund dollars freed up by Federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, & Economic Security) Act funding in other areas. 

The COVID-19 pandemic caused an unprecedented number of households to fall behind on their utility bills due to the widespread loss of employment and diminished pay for many Louisvillians. To demonstrate the current level of need, LG&E reported 21,000 residential customers were eligible for disconnections as of the end of June 2021.

“Throughout the pandemic, in addition to safety, our primary focus has been communicating with our customers, making sure they have the latest information, and know that we are ready and willing to assist them,” said LG&E and KU Vice President-Customer Services, Eileen Saunders. “While we resumed disconnects due to non-payment in mid-June, after suspending them for more than a year and half, we want our customers to know that we’re here to work with them and to help them prevent a loss of service.”

How to apply for the LG&E assistance:

Schedule a drop off appointment in advance at one of four Neighborhood Place Drop Boxes. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling 502-977-6636 or online at LGEHelp.itfrontdesk.com. The toll-free service is currently open and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Eligibility for the Metro LG&E Relief Program:

  • Jefferson County residency
  • Experienced a COVID-related economic hardship
  • Have a past due/delinquent LG&E electric or gas bill since March 16, 2020
  • There are no income restrictions to receive this utility assistance, however, income documentation is required to gain entry into the LG&E program.

Documentation may include:

  • Photo ID for adult(s) in the household
  • Social Security card(s) or official documentation with Social Security numbers for everyone living in the household (or permanence residence/green card)
  • Current bill with a past due balance, or a brown, disconnect notice from LG&E. (The past due amount must have occurred since March 16, 2020)
  • LG&E Utility Assistance application form can be downloaded here or found at your nearest Neighborhood Place office drop boxes that include the income documentation form.

These Metro COVID-19 Relief Program funds for LG&E will operate until funding is depleted. Funding will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

LG&E would like to remind customers who are behind on their bill that they can set up a payment plan that best fits their situation and spreads out their past due balance over installments. Once a disconnection notice is received, customers can sign up for a payment plan through any of the following options:

  • LG&E and KU mobile app – available in the App Store and Google Play Store
  • MyAccount – available through the LG&E and KU website, lge-ku.com
  • LG&E and KU automated phone system – press 1-2-2-1 at any time

Customers can also visit an LG&E business office in person or speak to a Customer Care representative by phone.

LIHEAP summer cooling assistance enrollment open

Automated appointment line now open to schedule appointments in advance

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 12, 2021) - Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) joins with Community Action Agencies across the state today to begin accepting applications for the 2021 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Summer Cooling Program. This federally-funded programs is designed to help offset the cost of higher electric bills due to rising temperatures. Applications will be accepted now through October 31, 2021, or until funds are depleted.

The LIHEAP Summer Cooling Program is separated into two components, Subsidy and Crisis, to assist with electric cost. Eligible households can apply for one or both components and participation in prior LIHEAP programs will not affect a household’s eligibility. Households must meet eligibility requirements, with a household income at or below 150% of the Kentucky median income.

The Subsidy component provides households a one-time benefit ranging from $100 to $400 depending on income levels and housing category. The Crisis component is available to eligible households who demonstrate a home energy crisis situation. Crisis benefits will cover the minimum needed to alleviate the crisis not to exceed $600. Households can reapply each time they experience a crisis situation until they reached their maximum benefit.

“Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) is proud to serve as part of the Community Action Kentucky network, and we’re so grateful this assistance is available to help our residents, said Tameka Laird, director of Louisville Metro RCS.  “We want Louisvillians and all of our state’s residents to remain healthy, especially when dangerously high temperatures can make homes unsafe.”

How to apply?

Schedule a drop off appointment in advance at one of the seven LIHEAP Drop Boxes. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling 502-991-8391 or online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com. The toll-free service is currently open and is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Applicants will be assessed for both the Subsidy and Crisis programs and may receive benefits from both programs if eligible.

LIHEAP required documentation, along with the downloadable LIHEAP Family Profile form and the LIHEAP Application should be dropped off at the LIHEAP site you select, on the day of your appointment (download forms at louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP or pick up at Drop Boxes).

Applicants will then be contacted by LIHEAP staff within 72 hours (3 business days) of the appointment time.

Required documentation to drop off includes:

  • Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
  • Proof of all household’s (all members) income from the preceding month. All individuals 18 or over in the household with no income -- and no way to document that status such as a Food Stamp Award letter -- must have a Proof of No Income Form completed prior to applying for benefits. These forms are available at the LIHEAP Drop Box locations or online at louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP.
  • Most current electric bill, or statement from your landlord if electric expenses are included in your rent.  

For more descriptions about the drop box locations, income eligibility and other instructions, call the automated LIHEAP information line at 991-8391 or visit www.louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.  Residents may also visit https://louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP for more details.

Individuals who require more information can contact Metro311 by simply dialing 311 or (502) 574-5000, email metro.311@louisvilleky.gov, tweet @LouMetro311, Web: loiusvilleky.gov/tell311, or download the free Mobile Louisville Metro 311 app from the website. Residents can also call Metro United Way’s 2-1-1 help referral service.

Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. More information about LIHEAP and a listing of LIHEAP outreach offices can be found at the Community Action Kentucky website at www.CAPKY.org.


LGEKU

Metro Covid LG&E Assistance Online Application

The Association of Community Ministries is temporarily reopening their online application portal and will process applications as long as funds allow.
Jefferson County households could be eligible for as much as $1,000 in aid if they have:

1) a past due amount on their LG&E bill as the result of an economic hardship related to Covid-19

2) those past due arrearages occurred between March 16, 2020 and March 31, 2021
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In order to make completing the online application and signature capture process easier we have created a short video demonstration.  We recommend viewing this before applying.

Louisville Metro seal

Louisville Metro changes policy on special event staffing

Scaling back on the practice of providing on-duty staff; event organizers will be directed to private security due to LMPD staffing levels

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 23, 2021) – In response to Louisville Metro Police Department staffing levels and to ensure officers are spending more time in their divisions, the city is scaling back its practice of providing on-duty staff for special events and large gatherings.

The city had previously worked to reduce the involvement of LMPD in special events, with new guidelines set in 2017 that, among other things, urged event organizers to increase volunteer participation for safety positions that didn’t require a sworn police officer, or to use private security companies.

With the latest change, LMPD will no longer be fully staffing most special events in an “on duty” capacity. LMPD will continue to provide on-duty staff for Metro-operated events, like the annual WorldFest, Hike Bike & Paddle and Light Up Louisville. And per Metro Council changes to the FY22 budget, LMPD will provide on-duty staff for many Council-sponsored events.

Some other events that carry enhanced security risks will also continue to be covered by LMPD, including the Kentucky Derby, Thunder Over Louisville, and other Kentucky Derby Festival events. Per Metro ordinance, LMPD will recover some overtime costs from Churchill Downs related to security for Thurby, the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby.

All event organizers still will be required to apply for a permit through the Special Events team within Metro’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA). That team will provide essential planning and supervision of the permitting process, alongside organizers and private security companies, to ensure safety and security standards are met. The city will continue to set those standards, and LMPD will continue as liaison with organizers about what measures are required – and sign off on permits. It will be the responsibility of the permit applicant and organizers to ensure that the necessary measures are put in place.

“We value our community partnerships, which help strengthen the safety of our communities, but LMPD staffing issues require this change,” said EMA Director Jody Meiman. “We know change can be difficult, but EMA and LMPD remain committed to remaining a strong partner throughout the process.”


Aging and Disabled Citizens logo

Office for Aging and Disabled Citizens News

Louisville Metro RSVP Program

Are you recently retired or looking for something to do post COVID 19? Then the AmeriCorps Seniors Louisville Metro Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) program may be the perfect fit for you! For over 40 years, the Louisville Metro RSVP Program has been pairing hundreds of seniors 55 and older with close to 50 local non-for-profit organizations, affiliated hospitals, and Metro Government departments/agencies. Together these partnering groups with dedicated and compassionate volunteers help make a difference in our community.  Volunteers with RSVP not only make impact to the lives of other individuals and organizations but in return increase social engagement and overall well-being for those involved.  Special friendships and various benefits can come forth from joining RSVP.  It is a total win-win situation for everyone.   If you would like more information on our program please call us at 502-574-1530 or email either Bill Clark  or Chris Clements. You can also visit the official website page of RSVP to learn more.  We’ll be happy to discuss with you about all the volunteer opportunities that are offered with the Louisville Metro RSVP Program and we are certain you want to join us.

Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) - 888-677-1199

The Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) is now available to help people with disabilities find vaccination locations in their communities, assist callers with making vaccination appointments, and connect callers to local services – such as accessible transportation – to overcome barriers to vaccination. The hotline also can provide information and resources to answer questions and address concerns about the vaccines and can connect callers to information and services that promote independent living and address fundamental needs, such as food, housing, and transportation.

DIAL is operated as a collaboration between a consortium of organizations serving people with disabilities and the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a). The consortium includes:

  • Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL),
  • Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD),
  • Independent Living Research Utilization (ILRU),
  • National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD),
  • National Council on Independent Living (NCIL),
  • National Disabilities Rights Network (NDRN), and
  • The Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies.

This collaboration benefits from the disability networks’ extensive knowledge and expertise in meeting the needs of people with disabilities across the U.S. and n4a’s decades of experience operating the Eldercare Locator, the only federally funded national information and referral resource that supports consumers across the spectrum of issues affecting older Americans. By leveraging these capabilities, ACL was able to launch this critical tool in less than six weeks.

About the Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL)

The Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) connects callers to information about how to access the COVID-19 vaccine and related supports for people with disabilities. DIAL connects callers to vaccine sites and provides information related to barriers to vaccination by referring callers to local and national disability resources.

acl.gov/dial | 888-677-1199 from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET | DIAL@n4a.org


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OSHN News

Free Suicide Prevention Trainings

FREE QPR trainings are still available for Jefferson County residents! Question, Persuade and Refer are three steps anyone can learn to help prevent suicide. Join the Louisville Health Advisory Board and the National Alliance on Mental Illness in reaching their goal of 1,500 new Jefferson County residents trained in the QPR model. Sign up for the free, monthly training here.

Self-Esteem Inc Holding Fundraiser

Self Esteem Inc. is a non-profit providing mentorship to young women.  Their upcoming fundraiser, called the Marcus Garvey Day Festival, is at the African American Heritage Center Saturday, August 14 from 11am-5pm.  Speakers include Senator Gerald Neal, State Representative Reginald Meeks, Dr. Rev. Kevin Cosby, and more.  Tickets are donation-based and will help fund Self-Esteem Inc.  Register here.

The Louisville Youth Network is Live

The Louisville Youth Network (LYN) is now live!  Through a collaboration between the Office of Youth Development, CSYA, Goodwill Industries, Louisville Urban League, and YouthBuild Louisville, the LYN is ready to act as a free, one-stop shop for Louisville youth aged 16-24.  While the network is catered for youth who are not in school or working, any young adult who needs support can benefit.  Some of the resources include education, workforce development, childcare, food assistance, mental health supports, and more.  Access the network by visiting louisvilleyouthnetwork.org or calling (502) 230-2028.

COVID-19 Relief for Internet Bills

The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) is part of the federal government's emergency COVID-19 response. It provides a direct payment  for internet bills of up to $50 (or $75 on Tribal Lands) per month for eligible households. The program will last for several months until the $3.2 billion fund runs out. See if you are eligible here.

Jobcorps Seeking to Bolster Caseloads

The past year has exacerbated  the need for housing and education supports, and Jobcorps is ready to meet demand. The Whitney M. Young Center can provide free housing and education supports for young adults aged 16-24 looking to expand their education including earning their high school diploma, GED, or attending community college classes.  Additionally, Jobcorps offers training in several competitive trades including manufacturing, construction, culinary arts, hospitality, and more. While their housing supports are often a much-needed resource, it is not a requirement and participants are welcome to commute to the center daily.   For more info about Jobcorps, or to begin the admissions process, contact  Sotkiewicz.Sarah@jobcorps.org

Little Free Pantry Project

The Ambassador Workgroup has been meeting regularly for almost a year to discuss ways to implement violence prevention strategies in their own community.  The workgroup's most recent project involved tackling food scarcity with the installation of three Little Free Pantries around town.  The Little Free Pantries are a spin on the Little Free Library concept, but provides canned goods, nonperishable foods, and hygiene items that can be accessed easily and discretely for anybody in need.  The goal is for nearby residents to both be able to share their excess resources as well as take when needed. As an added bonus, the pantries were constructed using up-cycled plywood taken from downtown business windows.  See how this project came to life in this short video from Metro TV here.

The Ambassador Workgroup meets on the first Thursday of every month.  If you are interested in joining an upcoming meeting, please contact joseph.newland@louisvilleky.gov.  Or, to suggest a new project for the workgroup to tackle, complete the Project Proposal Form here.


sustain louisville enewsletter

Office of Advanced Planning and Sustainability News

Wildlife Threat: Unexplained Bird Mortality Event

In late May, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources began receiving reports of sick and dying birds with eye swelling and crusty discharge, as well as neurological symptoms. State wildlife agencies in Indiana, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia, Washington, D.C. and West Virginia have reported similar problems. No definitive cause of death has been identified at this time. Thus far, species affected have been blue jays, common grackles and European starlings, but other species may be affected as well.

Birds congregating at feeders and baths can transmit diseases to one another.  Therefore, Kentucky Fish & Wildlife recommends:

  1. Stop feeding birds in Jefferson, Boone and Kenton Counties until further notice.
  2. Clean all bird feeders and bird baths with a 10% bleach solution immediately, and then once per week thereafter.
  3. Avoid handling birds, but wear disposable gloves if handling is necessary.
  4. Keep pets away from sick or dead birds as a standard precaution.

Click here to report an observation of a sick or dead bird.

Carbon Footprint Reduction Webinar Series

Join Kentucky Excellence in Environmental Leadership (KY EXCEL) to explore carbon footprint reduction in a series of three webinars. Speakers from the KY Division of Compliance Assistance and the Kentucky Pollution Prevention Center will share:

  • An overview of what a carbon footprint is
  • Training on baselining greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
  • Identifying opportunities to reduce GHG emissions 

The series kicks off on August 18, with subsequent webinars on September 2 and 9. Click here to learn more and register.


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JCPS News

JCPS Announces Updates for 2021-22 Meal Service

Every JCPS student to receive free meals regardless of family income, school

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 29, 2021) — Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) will serve hot meals to most of its 96,000 enrolled students inside school buildings when classes resume this year, ending a nearly 17-month pandemic-inspired meal system that included bulk curbside food pickup for anyone 18 and under.  

During the 2021-22 school year, all JCPS students will be eligible for free meals, regardless of family income or the school they attend. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has extended funding for school districts across the country to offer the free meals to every public school student.

“I am proud of the extraordinary work our staff has done over the past year and a half to make sure young people in our community received appealing, nutritious meals and snacks throughout the pandemic,” said Julia Bauscher, executive director of JCPS Nutrition Services. “Although we will be making some adjustments to our meal service to adapt to the changing landscape in our schools, we’re looking forward to the coming school year and returning to some sense of a normal schedule and serving kids in cafeterias again.”

Click here to watch the Nutrition Services announcement.

Starting Aug. 11, the first day of school, those adjustments will include:

  • Meals will be provided only to students enrolled in JCPS district schools.
  • No curbside meal service. For most JCPS students, who will be attending in-person classes, all meals will be served in school buildings. To support students enrolled in the district’s virtual academy, JCPS will host five locations for students to pick up a week’s worth of bulk items.  Only students enrolled in the virtual school are eligible to pick up meals, and they must register in advance for the meals.  More information on registering will be provided to families.
  • The district will retain popular options that grew from remote learning-time food service, such as the “fast pass” breakfast kiosks, allowing students to grab and go with their morning meals, at many locations.
  • Many other meal features and options will continue:
    • Students who bring their lunch can still round out their meal by picking up a fresh fruit, vegetable or milk. 
    • After school snacks and suppers will be available for qualified after-school programs. 
    • At middle and high schools, vending machines will be open for a la carte sales, but branded pizza will not be on the menu this year. The district is working to bring it back as soon as possible.

Bauscher encouraged families to continue being patient as in-school meals resume for the first time in a year and half. She noted that menus are subject to vary with availability, and that just as restaurants nationwide are experiencing shortages and food disruptions, so are school districts. 

In addition, Dan Ellnor, assistant director of Nutrition Services, announced that more than 11.5 million meals have been served since March 16, 2020.

“Our Nutrition Services staff have stepped up to serve millions of meals to children and young people during this difficult year,” Ellnor said. “In some cases, the meals were the only full meals they received each week.”

Board approves mask requirement & virtual school option request

Masks will be required for all students, staff, and visitors inside JCPS buildings and on school buses

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 27, 2021) - The Jefferson County Board of Education (JCBE) met Tuesday night to hear updates on the district's next steps for the opening of the 2021-2022 school year.

  • The board approved the requirement of masks for all vaccinated and unvaccinated students, staff, and visitors inside school property and on school buses.
  • Schools will be open five days a week for K-12 students beginning August 11.

The board also approved a request to the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) to implement a virtual option for K-5 students.

  • If KDE approves the waiver, JCPS will offer virtual instruction for K-5 students at the Pathfinder School of Innovation. This program has already been approved for 6th-12th grade students. 
  • Students will have live instruction as well as self-guided assignments.
  • To take part in this program, students will enroll at the Pathfinder School of Innovation and are no longer enrolled at their current assigned school.
  • This is a one-year program that would have to be renewed annually.

Follow JCPS online on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.


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Louisville Metro Animal Services News

Redemption Fees Waived for Owners who claim their pet from the LMAS Shelter

Agency pro-actively seeks to reduce kennel population by reuniting stray pets and their families during the busiest time of year for animal shelters

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 1, 2021) - Louisville Metro Animal Services (LMAS) announces all redemption fees are waived for unclaimed stray pets at the LMAS shelter through July 31st, to prevent overcrowding or euthanasia for lack of kennel space. A generous donation from the non-profit organization, the Friends of Metro Animal Services (FOMAS) made it possible to waive fees for owners who are concerned about the cost to reclaim their pet.

“We’ve entered the shelter’s busiest time of year and despite regular transfers of pets to animal rescue organizations, we continue to see an uptick in stray pets typically associated with the summer months,” said Ashley Book, Interim LMAS Shelter Director. “It’s always our goal to determine the best outcome for these pets and most often, that’s reuniting them with their owners. Unfortunately, the cost of claiming a pet from the shelter often deters owners from coming in - and that is not what we want, or what’s best for the pet.”

This is the second time this year FOMAS has stepped up to provide funding to help citizens who cannot face the additional financial burden of redemption fees. The first donation resulted in the happy reunions of nearly 100 pets and their families.

“We are grateful to have an organization like FOMAS working year-round to raise funds in support of our shelter. When we are facing shelter overcrowding, we have options which would not be possible without the contributions of FOMAS and its commitment to helping animals’ lives,” said Book.

Redemption fees are waived July 1st - July 31st, 2021.  Owners can claim their impounded pet from 12-6pm Monday-Friday, and 12-3pm Saturdays at the LMAS Animal Shelter, located at 3528 Newburg Road.

  • Redemption fees will only be waived for pet owners with no previous violations, and cover microchipping, licensing and vaccination fees.
  • Court fees will not be waived.
  • LMAS will not keep a pet impounded due to its owner’s inability to pay and will work with owners who have outstanding balances and want to reclaim their pet.

Redemption fees are set by the Louisville Animal Ordinance and do not include the cost of required vaccinations every incoming pet must receive, for the safety of all animals in the shelter. Local animal laws also require pets to be licensed, microchipped, and spayed or neutered before leaving the shelter.  To view the animal ordinance and a list of redemption fees, visit www.louisvilleky.gov/animal-services.

FOMAS supports LMAS and its many life-saving initiatives through fundraisers and public donations. If you would like to make a donation to help citizens in need of financial assistance when reclaiming their pet from the LMAS Shelter, visit www.fomaslou.org.


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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!


Lighthouse logo

Lighthouse Academy at Newburg is looking for an Administrative Assistant

The Light House Academy at Newburg is looking for a person to provide assistance to the Director in our after-school program and summer program.

The hours of operation are:

-During the school year: Monday through Friday, 1:00 to 6:30 p.m. each day JCPS is in session.

-During the summer: Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. during a 4-week summer session.

The position is expected to work both sessions, but will work additional hours for administrative purposes.

The pay is between $14 and $16/hr, depending upon level of education and experience of the candidate.

Contact person: Cynthia Overall, 502-593-8650

Email resume to: cynthiar.overall73@gmail.com (preferred) or mail resume to the Lighthouse Academy at Newburg at the address below:

Light House Academy at Newburg

5312 Shepherdsville Road

Louisville, Ky. 40228

http://www.thelighthousecenter.org

Phone: 502-964-5909


311 logo

Having issues with high grass, illegal parking, street repairs, or other Code Enforcement concerns in the community?  Contact 311!

Metro311 Service Request Information

  • Submit a Service Request in the new system.
  • 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.
  • The outlined or highlighted area on the map indicates the area which is serviced by Louisville Metro Government.
  • If you do not see a category which corresponds to your issue, please call Metro 311 at 311. 

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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.

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Pop-Up Drop-Off Waste Disposal Events

Pop-Up Drop-Offs are free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County.

Next event:

Saturday, August 28, 2021
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Fern Creek High School, 9115 Fern Creek Road

Accepted Items: 

  • Up to 3 electronic items (recycled)
  • Metal & appliances, no refrigerators or any items containing coolant (recycled) 
  • Up to 4 passenger tires (recycled)
  • Household recyclables, follow curbside rules (recycled)
  • Yard waste, follow curbside rules, wooden pallets (composted)
  • Large household items (landfilled) 
  • Documents for shredding (recycled)
  • Prescription medication (disposed properly)

Items must already be separated into categories for easy off-loading so as much can be recycled as possible.

Not Accepted:

  • Garbage, loose debris (use curbside garbage collection or take to landfill)
  • Concrete, bricks, rocks
  • Construction materials (take to Waste Reduction Center, fees apply)
  • Refrigerators or items containing coolant (take to Waste Reduction Center, or metal recycling facility)
  • Latex paint (disposal information)
  • 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)

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Help Stop Illegal Dumping!

  • To report materials that have been illegally dumped or "junk" set out on the wrong day, use Metro311 or 574-5000.
  • If you WITNESSED A PERSON illegal dumping and have information (pictures, license plate #, etc.), please report it on our new online form.
  • Keep an eye out for the vehicles our Enforcement Team is currently looking for! 
  • Don't contribute to the problem!
    • If you hire someone to dispose waste for you,ask to see their Waste Hauler License and do not pay without a disposal receipt. Properly disposing of truck loads of materials costs at least $50 - if you're charged less than that, be suspicious. Perpetrators will often take your money and illegally dump your items to avoid the disposal fee. Drop off up to three household items for free at the Waste Reduction Center. (Disposal fees may apply for additional items.) 
    • Only set out junk or bulky items during your scheduled set out period. Residents in the Urban Services District can sign up for set out reminders using the Recycle Coach app. Residents outside of the Urban Services District should call their contracted waste hauler for information. 
  • Tips to Prevent Illegal Dumping on your Property
    • Keep your property well lit and clear of overgrown trees and shrubs.
    • Monitor your property - the presence of illegally dumped materials or bulky items set out too early attracts additional dumping. 
    • Install security cameras - send your video or photos anonymously to us and enforcement officers can use identifying information to catch the perpetrator.

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  • Choose not to litter. Make a commitment to always dispose of your trash properly and set an example for others.
  • Report litter concerns to Metro311. Report online, call 311 or 574-5000, email metro.311@louisvilleky.gov, or tweet @LouMetro311.
  • Understand litter laws in Louisville Metro. Share this information with others.
  • If you see litter, pick it up! People tend to litter more in already littered areas.
  • Report a litterer online now.
  • Organize a neighborhood cleanup. Brightside offers resources for your group. 
  • Cover your loads! A lot of litter ends up on the highway because of waste not properly contained in trucks
  • Remove vehicle debris after an accident. When a wrecked vehicle is removed, the debris must be removed with it. 
  • Report materials that have been illegally dumped or "junk" set out on the wrong day to Metro311 or call 311 or 574-5000.
  • If you WITNESSED A PERSON illegally dumping and have information (pictures, license plate #, etc.) report it on our online form
  • If you hire someone to dispose waste for you, ask to see their Waste Hauler License and do not pay without a disposal receipt. Properly disposing of truckloads of material costs at least $50 - if you're charged less than that, be suspicious. Perpetrators will often take your money and illegally dump items to avoid the disposal fee. Drop off up to three household items for free at the Waste Reduction Center. (Disposal fees apply for additional items.)
  • Only set out large items during your scheduled set out period. Residents in the Urban Services District can sign up for set out reminders using the Recycle Coach app. Residents outside the Urban Services District should call their contracted waste hauler for information.
  • Dispose of large items like tires and furniture at Pop-Up Drop-Off events – free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County. 

Street Light

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 logo

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.


Louisville Metro Seal

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).   
  • Gas line leaks.

For further information contact Office of Housing at 574-5850 or homerepair@louisvilleky.gov.


Food Pantry

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
  • First Come, First Served Basis
  • Picture ID & proof of residency required!

Sponsored By: 

Peace Presbyterian Church

4210 East Indian Trail

Louisville, KY  40213


LFPL icon

Louisville Free Public Library News

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Newburg Library Schedule of Upcoming Events:
Friday, July 30, 2021
All Day Event
All Day Event
Saturday, July 31, 2021
01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
All Day Event
Monday, August 02, 2021
All Day Event
All Day Event
Tuesday, August 03, 2021
All Day Event
All Day Event
Wednesday, August 04, 2021
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
All Day Event
All Day Event
Thursday, August 05, 2021
All Day Event
All Day Event
Friday, August 06, 2021
All Day Event
All Day Event
Saturday, August 07, 2021
12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
All Day Event
Monday, August 09, 2021
All Day Event
All Day Event
Tuesday, August 10, 2021
All Day Event
All Day Event
Wednesday, August 11, 2021
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
02:30 PM - 04:30 PM
All Day Event
All Day Event
Thursday, August 12, 2021
02:30 PM - 04:30 PM
All Day Event
All Day Event
Friday, August 13, 2021
02:30 PM - 04:30 PM
All Day Event
All Day Event
Saturday, August 14, 2021
All Day Event
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Other Free Programs & Activities

LFPL has lots of free programs, storytimes, and other activities for kids and teens this summer. Learn more at www.LFPL.org/events.


zoo logo

Louisville Zoo News

Brew is back with a new style for 2021

LOUISVILLE, KY (July 15, 2021) - Join the Friends of the Louisville Zoo for Back to Brew 2021, a modified version of Brew at the Zoo and Wine Too!, an annual fundraiser benefiting the Louisville Zoo.  The event format may look and feel different this year to accommodate continually evolving COVID-19 guidelines; however, the adventure and opportunities for everyone to have fun with friends and other Zoo-loving adults while supporting wildlife conservation will be as memorable as ever!  

Zoo fans, beer and wine lovers can attend this exclusive event on Saturday, August 28 from 5 - 9:30 p.m.  Attendees will enjoy tastings from craft breweries and wineries, accompanied by local restaurant samples and live music.  New for 2021 are catered heavy appetizers and specialty pours throughout the night, which will provide the traditional VIP event perks and more to ALL ticket purchasers.

Each ticket includes access to all event areas throughout the Zoo, food samples and catered appetizers, a Back to Brew swag bag, non-alcoholic beverages and up to 40 oz of beer and wine tastings with the option to purchase beverage tickets on-site for additional pours.  Back to Brew tickets are $125 (plus processing fees) and includes a raffle ticket valid for the chance to win one of three amazing prizes: an animal encounter or one of two family 4-packs that include parking and carousel passes.* All guests must be age 21 or older.

Funds raised from Back to Brew will benefit Friends of the Louisville Zoo and their mission to support animal care and special projects for the Zoo.

To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please visit LouisvilleZoo.org/brew

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For sponsorship inquiries and more information: 

Sarah Nordman (502) 572-3855 or FriendsoftheLouisvilleZoo@gmail.com

Chad Dobbins (502) 777-1860 or FriendsoftheLouisvilleZoo@gmail.com

* Animal encounter will be coordinated for a later date and will not occur during Back to Brew; valid for up to 4 participants, 6 years of age and older.  Raffle tickets will only be available as a part of a Back to Brew ticket purchase.


Louisville Metro Seal

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. 

Click Here to Report!


LouieConnect

LouieConnect

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.


Louisville Metro Seal

***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
  • Louisville Forward/Economic Development: (502) 574-4140
  • Master Commissioner Jefferson Circuit Court (Foreclosure Sales): (502) 753-4888
  • Mayor Greg Fischer: (502) 574-2003
  • Metro311: 311 or (502) 574-5000
  • Metro Parks: (502) 456-8100
  • Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD): (502) 540-6000
  • MetroSafe: (502) 572-3460 or (502) 574-7111
  • PARC: (502) 569-6222
  • Planning & Design Services: (502) 574-6230
  • Property Valuation Administrator (PVA): (502) 574-4016
  • Public Works: (502) 574-5810
  • Solid Waste Management (SWMS): (502) 574-3571
  • TARC: (502) 585-1234
  • Vacant & Public Property Administration: (502) 574-4016
  • Your State Representative or State Senatorhttp://www.lrc.ky.gov 

fajita soup

Don't know what to make for dinner?  Try our semimonthly recipe suggestion!

Today's recipe comes from allrecipes.com and can be found here.

Easy Chicken Fajita Soup

Prep/Cook Time: 1 hr 15 mins
Yield:  10 servings
Ingredient Checklist
Instructions Checklist
  • Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Place chicken in the hot oil; cook, stirring only occasionally, until brown, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle fajita seasoning over the browned chicken and stir well to coat. Add the red and green bell pepper, poblano pepper, and onion to the seasoned chicken. Stir and cook over medium heat until the vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.

  • Pour the fire roasted tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth into the pot with the chicken and vegetables. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Season the soup with hot sauce, salt, and pepper to taste before serving.