Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 08/13/2021 01:00 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.
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It is with great sadness that the D-2 office must announce that Newburg Day 2021 is to be cancelled. As cases of the delta strain of COVID-19 continue to rise in our city, our office has made this decision in the interest of the health and wellbeing of community members of all ages. Thank you for your understanding as we continue to fight the pandemic together.
*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.
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
Latest News from Gov. Beshear and the Commonwealth of Kentucky
Gov. Beshear: Unvaccinated Kentuckians Face Greatest Risk Since Pandemic Began
Governor highlights how vaccines will save lives, keep schools open, protect economy
FRANKFORT, KY (Aug. 12, 2021) – On Thursday during his weekly Team Kentucky update, Gov. Andy Beshear said Kentucky’s economic momentum continues to build as more Kentuckians get vaccinated, fighting the commonwealth’s fastest ever surge of COVID-19 cases.
“The delta variant is the most aggressive, and it looks like it may be the most deadly, form of COVID that we have faced,” said Gov. Beshear. “If you are unvaccinated, you are at the very greatest risk that you have been at since the start of the pandemic. COVID has been the third leading cause of death in the United States over the past year and a half. Right now, it’s putting more pressure than it ever has before on our health care heroes.”
The Governor highlighted a recent warning that Mississippi’s hospital system could fail in 10 days because of an exponential rise in COVID-19 cases among unvaccinated residents.
On Aug. 10, Arkansas officials reported there were only eight empty ICU beds in the entire state.
Health care leaders from across Kentucky emphasized the risks of not getting vaccinated for COVID-19.
“Right now, in our hospitals, nurses across the commonwealth are leaving their families to take care of yours,” said Cindy Lucchese, MBA, BSN, RN, chief nurse executive for UofL Physicians at UofL Health in Louisville. “Many think only the elderly and those with underlying health conditions will experience complications from this virus. Well, that’s just not the case. With the emergence of the delta variant, we are seeing younger and healthier people become very sick, and this includes pediatric patients. Some are children under 12, who currently cannot be protected by a vaccine.”
“One of the most important things we have seen with this round of COVID is that the age of admission has significantly decreased. The average age of admission has dropped from 75 to 55, and we have noticed the same with our mortalities,” said Stacy Caudill, M.D., hospitalist and chief medical officer of King’s Daughters Medical Center in Ashland. “Of our current admissions in the hospital, 94% are unvaccinated and 100% of our ICU patients are unvaccinated.”
“We are seeing the most rapid rise of cases that I have seen since the pandemic started,” said William Melahn, chief medical officer of St. Claire Health Care in Morehead. “We are worn out, but we are not going to give up. If you really want to help us, go get vaccinated. Vaccinations are extraordinarily safe. We have not seen anyone in our hospital with vaccine complications, but we have seen too many patients with COVID that have not been vaccinated.”
“Our veterans have served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, have served our country – that’s just who they are and what they do. Most of them were asking, ‘When can I get a vaccine?’ They looked at it as simply another way for them to continue to serve and to be of service,” said Martha Workman, deputy executive director of the Office of Kentucky Veterans Centers. “Our staff stepped up, and they also have been getting vaccinated. I’m happy to tell you today, across our veterans centers, our veterans are at a 94.5% vaccination rate. Our staff is at 71.5%, and I’m also happy to report that this week alone we had 18 additional staff step up and get their first vaccinations, plus we’ve had two more veterans who’ve done that. Our veterans deserve to be safe in our facilities.”
Two staff members from Thomson-Hood Veterans Center, where 34 residents died of COVID-19 last year during the state’s fall and winter surge in cases, honored those “loved and lost” and said vaccines can prevent Kentuckians from experiencing the painful losses their team did.
“We had our first COVID preparedness meeting Feb. 23, 2020, before just about anyone else in the United States,” said Joni Gosser, administrator of Thomson-Hood Veterans Center. “Our staff bravely held the line, and we went months without having one case of COVID. But last fall when the community started to see a surge, COVID finally breached our facility.”
“We’ve finally got our shot. We have a weapon we didn’t have last year, that we prayed for last year, that we dreamed of,” said Caity Grose, nurse executive at Thomson-Hood Veterans Center, after sharing a story about one patient she lost to the virus. “The death and the pain is preventable. The school closures, the business closures, the nursing home shutdowns, all of it is preventable this time. We’ve been nurses for a long time. This is not political. It’s about humanity. We do not have to needlessly suffer through a round two of this.”
COVID-19 Update From March 1 to Aug. 11, 2021, 89.8% of COVID-19 cases, 90.5% of COVID-19 hospitalizations and 88.5% of COVID-19 deaths were among partially vaccinated or unvaccinated Kentuckians.
As of today, 2,386,200 Kentuckians have received at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine; 5,589 have been vaccinated over the past day.
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. Two $1 million winners and 10 full-scholarship winners were announced on July 2 and July 30. On Aug. 27, another $1 million winner and five more full-scholarship winners will be announced.
Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Launches ‘Vax & Visit KY’ Initiative Gov. Beshear and Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Mike Berry announced the Vax & Visit KY initiative, the commonwealth’s latest effort to encourage Kentuckians to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Kentucky will offer in-state travel incentives at Kentucky State Parks for Kentuckians who have received the COVID-19 vaccination.
“The tourism industry remains committed to being a partner in the commonwealth’s efforts to sprint out of this pandemic,” said Secretary Berry. “Offering vaccine incentives to Kentucky State Parks will not only boost travel revenue in local communities, but also ensure that Kentucky continues to be seen as a safe travel destination post pandemic.”
Beginning today, eligible Kentuckians who have received their shot of hope can register for a chance to win a safe-cation at any of Kentucky’s 45 state parks. Safe-cations include golf, lodging and campground gift certificates. Kentuckians must be 18 years old or older to enter and have received at least their first dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, or the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
Winners will be selected beginning Thursday, Sept. 9. The final drawing will take place on Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021. To learn more, visit tah.ky.gov.
Gov. Beshear: Fighting COVID-19 Will Also Protect Economic Progress The Governor said his three top priorities in fighting COVID-19 are saving lives and protecting health; ensuring as much in-person learning for students as possible; and protecting Kentucky’s continued economic resurgence. He highlighted two of the most recent examples of the state’s growing economic momentum.
In congratulating Amazon this week on beginning operations at its 2,000-job air cargo hub at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, Gov. Beshear said the $1.5 billion facility cements Kentucky’s role as a top U.S. location for distribution and logistics, a major industry moving the commonwealth’s economy forward. To learn more, see the full release.
This week, Gov. Beshear congratulated Lexington-based Quality Logistics LLC, doing business as Longship, on opening its new office in Fayette County, a $4.3 million investment creating 155 well-paying jobs for Kentucky residents. To learn more, see the full release.
Team Kentucky All-Stars Today, Gov. Beshear recognized education leaders who chose to require masks in schools this fall to protect students, staff and their communities even before the Governor signed an executive order requiring universal masking in schools and child care.
“Masks work to keep our children safe and our schools open. That's a fact,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is a united front of saving lives, keeping our kids in school and continuing our economic momentum. I want to thank the school system in Dawson Springs, my dad’s hometown, for being one of the first districts to require masks in schools this fall, a full week before the statewide executive order was signed. That took guts, but you did it because you knew it would protect our kids and communities.”
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.
Gov. Beshear: To Save Lives, Keep Schools Open and Protect Surging Economy, Masks Required in All Kentucky Schools, Child Care Settings
Health care, public health, school and business leaders support Governor’s executive order
FRANKFORT, KY (Aug. 10, 2021) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear said in response to the highly contagious COVID-19 delta variant and recent U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, he will require the following via an executive order:
All individuals – all teachers, staff, students and visitors – must cover their nose and mouth with a face covering when indoors in all public and private preschool, Head Start, elementary, middle and high schools (preschool through grade 12) in Kentucky, including but not limited to inside of vehicles used for transportation such as school buses, regardless of vaccination status; and
All staff, visitors and children ages 2 and older who are able to wear a face covering must cover their nose and mouth with a face covering when indoors in all child care settings in Kentucky, regardless of vaccination status.
“We are in the midst of the fastest surge that we have ever seen during COVID right now. This move is supported by medical organizations, local health department leaders, businesses and education leaders. It is also supported by the Kentucky Chamber, representing 3,800 member businesses across the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is a united front of saving lives, keeping our kids in school and keeping our economy and workforce going.”
The CDC now recommends universal indoor wearing of face coverings for all teachers, staff, students (ages 2 and older) and visitors to schools, regardless of vaccination status. The CDC recommends that all people ages 2 and older who are not fully vaccinated should wear a face covering while indoors in child care settings. The CDC also recommends that fully vaccinated people wear a face covering in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high COVID-19 transmission.
The surge of hospitalizations of children with COVID-19 is causing children’s hospitals to become overwhelmed, with recent CDC data showing an average of 225 children with COVID-19 admitted to U.S. hospitals every day over the past week. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that more than 93,000 children and teenagers were infected with COVID-19 from July 29 to Aug. 5.
While Kentucky has had success in administering at least a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to 2,376,891 people, vaccinations remain unavailable for approximately 661,500 Kentucky children ages 11 and under, and less than 34% of all eligible Kentucky children between ages 12 and 17 have received their first dose of a vaccine.
Health care, public health, school and business leaders across Kentucky echoed support for the Governor’s order.
Health Care Leaders Share Experiences Treating Patients with Delta Variant Two practicing health care leaders joined the Governor’s briefing to share their recent experiences treating young patients infected with the COVID-19 delta variant.
“This is very different than what we saw the first time around. When we look across the country at the case rates, pediatric cases are representing anywhere from 14-17% of the total cases, which is very concerning,” said Dr. Scottie B. Day, MD, FAAP, physician-in-chief, UK HealthCare’s Kentucky Children's Hospital in Lexington. “As many may know, an estimated 400 children have died, which may seem like a small number relative to adults, but these are children. These are the future generations. We need to keep our children safe.”
“As we have been seeing more patients with the delta variant, we have had to deal with a new problem: younger patients who become unstable more unpredictably,” said Miriam Haas, RN, BSN, nurse manager at Norton Brownsboro Hospital in Louisville. “These patients tend not to have other health issues that contribute to their illness – they don’t have anything in common other than the delta variant and the fact that many of them were not vaccinated. Many of our COVID patients say that if they had it to do over again, they would have received the vaccine. As a nurse this has been the most difficult thing I have been through in my 13-year career. The things we have seen will never leave me.”
Public Health Leaders: Masks Are Simple Step to Keep Children Safe Dr. Crystal Miller, director of the WEDCO District Health Department, whose department addressed the first confirmed COVID-19 case in Kentucky last year, said the delta variant has created some of the greatest challenges local hospitals have faced since the start of the pandemic.
“We had the highest COVID admission rate in one of our local hospitals today that we’ve seen this entire pandemic,” said Dr. Miller. “The COVID unit is full. Our local hospital CEO told me that his day begins and ends with texts from other CEOs around Kentucky asking if there are beds available to transfer patients. This is the most concerning thing that I have been told since the pandemic began.”
“Wearing a mask is a simple step to help keep our children healthy and safe,” said Rebecca Kissick, MSW, public health director, Clark County Health Department. “The Clark County Health Department recognizes the benefit of in-person learning and support the Governor’s efforts to keep our children healthy in school.”
“As a minimal tool to help mitigate the risk of increased transmission of COVID-19 in our schools and as recommended by the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, I support the Governor’s required mask mandate for K-12 schools until there is a significant reduction in disease to protect our unvaccinated and most vulnerable students and staff,” added Randy Gooch, executive director, Jessamine County Health Department.
Eleven other local health department leaders also shared their support for the executive order.
Education Leaders: Mask Requirements Provide Best Chance for Safe In-Person Learning Kentucky Education Commissioner Dr. Jason Glass agreed that mask requirements will give Kentucky school districts the best chance to safely return to full-time, in-person learning this fall with layered strategies in place to prevent COVID-19 infection and transmission. He also said the Kentucky Board of Education (KBE) will meet to discuss and act on an emergency regulation regarding face coverings in school facilities in a special-called meeting on Thursday, in coordination with the Governor’s executive order.
“Our primary goal is to keep our students safe while prioritizing in-person learning, which our students both crave and need,” said Commissioner Glass. “We have been unambiguous that our guidance and decisions here at the department will be based on science and upon recommendations from public health organizations. Besides vaccinations (which our students under 12 are not yet eligible for), masking is one of the most effective virus mitigation strategies we can deploy. With strong and consistent precautions in place, Kentucky’s schools have proven that we can safely open for in-person instruction. The Governor’s executive order and the KBE’s pending emergency regulation to require masking both put the health and learning of Kentucky’s children first, and I support them unconditionally.”
KY120 United – American Federation of Teachers issued the following statement of support: “We are grateful for Gov. Beshear’s strong leadership when it comes to keeping our most vulnerable Kentuckians safe in the classroom, our children. We applaud his willingness to follow science and the recommendations of the CDC and our state health departments when others have struggled to make the right decisions. We are excited to welcome children back to our buildings and classrooms, and look forward to a safe year of learning and growing across the commonwealth.”
Kentucky Education Association (KEA) President Eddie Campbell said: “Our schools count on our elected leaders to do what is best for the safety and health of our children, and to lead with that goal foremost in their minds. KEA supports Gov. Beshear’s mask requirement in all public schools. Masks are a simple, low-impact, essential precaution that will protect students, educators and families and will hopefully allow schools to remain open. No one wants to return to extended virtual learning or to the society-wide restrictions of 2020. But to avoid that, we must all use common sense to protect ourselves and each other.
“More than 90% of teachers and support staff nationwide have been vaccinated, according to a recent survey. Educators know the importance and value of in-person learning and they are doing their part to ensure that students can continue to learn in-person. But educators cannot do this alone; all public education stakeholders and every member of every Kentucky community needs to do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep our students in school.”
Houston Barber, superintendent of Frankfort Independent Schools and president of the Kentucky Association of School Superintendents, said: “The small sacrifice and commitment to wear masks has opened up the world of opportunities for our students to be successful during in-person school. Our team at Frankfort Independent Schools has been dedicated to ensuring we have in-person school for all of 2021-2022. We have had no spread of COVID-19 cases and have been in school since Aug. 2. We must remain faithful to this small sacrifice at this time to thrive and transform the lives and minds of our most precious gifts (students) without any disruption. It’s a team effort, and we must do this together!”
“The Jefferson County Teachers Association (JCTA) appreciates Gov. Beshear’s leadership in keeping Kentucky’s students and education employees safe and healthy through the COVID-19 pandemic,” said JCTA President Brent McKim. “As the commonwealth’s public schools reopen with full student schedules every day, we know most schools will not be able to maintain ideal social distancing between students, so it is more important than ever for all students and staff to wear masks when the COVID-19 infection rates are high, as they are now. Just across the river in Indiana, we have already seen students losing a great deal of instructional time and schools closing due to COVID-19 spread in schools. We don’t want that to happen in Kentucky. That’s why the teacher’s association support’s Gov. Beshear’s call for masking in our schools.”
Business Leaders: Masking Requirement Strengthens Kentucky’s Workforce Winston Griffin, chairman of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and president and chairman of Laurel Grocery, said requiring masks in schools will not only protect kids, it will protect their parents’ health and ability to work, ensuring Kentucky’s economy can continue to build momentum.
“The Chamber recognizes the importance of masking in schools at this time, because masking not only keeps our children and teachers safe but also because of its impact on the workforce,” said Griffin. “We learned last year that when a student gets exposed to the virus and needs to quarantine, this has an impact on the work-life of parents. Masking can help mitigate these issues and keep us all safer. But the best way to keep us safe and keep our economy moving is for all Kentuckians to get vaccinated.”
“We all thought that the worst was behind us with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, we are all looking at incredibly tough decisions to make sure we can keep all Kentuckians safe and keep our economy moving,” said president and chief executive officer of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Ashli Watts. “Employers are doing everything they can to keep their workforce safe and encourage vaccinations, which is the one way we know we can put a stop to this. Hundreds of students are now quarantined. That means that hundreds of parents are now probably not going to be able to go to work for the next couple of weeks. This cycle cannot continue.”
Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville
Mayor outlines priorities for the city’s 2nd round of American Rescue Plan spending
In consultation with Council budget leaders and the community, plan sets for focus areas
LOUISVILLE, KY (August 9, 2021) – Mayor Greg Fischer today was joined by Metro Council Budget Chair Bill Hollander and Vice Chair Kevin Kramer to outline proposed priorities for spending the remaining share of federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding.
The plan for that nearly $340 million focuses on four priority areas – Homelessness and Affordable Housing, Workforce Development and Small Business, Healthy Louisville/Healthy Neighborhoods and Public Safety.
The Mayor noted that data and public input “have been essential drivers of our ARP priorities” – from the city’s Build Back Better Together process, to the over 1,000 responses to online surveys and the comments the public shared in three hearings sponsored by Council. And the priorities also reflect discussions with the Council budget leaders, he said, “and our agreement that while our city has many needs, these areas reflect the most effective, inclusive, and equitable way to allocate our ARP funds set forth by the federal government.”
In total, Metro Government has been allocated $388 million in ARP Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, approved by Congress to meet the most urgent needs of communities across the country as they rebuild from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic.
In remarks today, the Mayor noted that public input overwhelmingly fell into the four focus areas that provide the framework for these ARP priorities:
First, Homelessness and Affordable Housing. “These are challenges faced by cities across the nation, and addressing them is a priority for us,” the Mayor said. “We recommend using a good amount of the ARP funding to significantly reduce the number of people experiencing homelessness. That includes transitional housing, permanent supportive housing and other forms of affordable housing, particularly directed at Louisville’s lowest-income residents and those suffering from mental health and substance use disorder, who have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 public health emergency.”
Second, Workforce Development and Small Business Support. “Our city is rebounding nicely from the pandemic recession, and we know that for us to competitively reposition for a digital economy and the job openings in our community, we must further invest in our workforce,” the Mayor said. “And, to truly realize our full potential as a city, we must create an economic ecosystem that builds, supports and encourages Black and Brown businesses and business owners, workers and communities. Broadband and small business support are also essential factors in this strategy.”
Third, Healthy Louisville/Healthy Neighborhoods. “We want to not just survive this pandemic, we want to learn from it. In addition to preventing further spread of COVID and mitigating its impact, we want to seize this opportunity to more quickly realize our goal of becoming a healthier city,” the Mayor said. “That means improving access to healthcare and childcare, including mental health/substance abuse/suicide prevention, and promoting and supporting healthier living environments in communities most critically impacted by the virus.”
Fourth, Public Safety. “This priority area will build on the work we are already doing to reduce violence and increase safety in every neighborhood,” the Mayor said. “It will include recommended investments in violence prevention and intervention and new policing technology and deflection and diversion programs, because as we’ve said, some situations should involve a social service response, rather than solely law enforcement, particularly when dealing with people struggling with homelessness, mental health challenges or substance use.”
Noting that, “Many of your city government employees have risen to the occasion of serving our city with great distinction during the depths of the pandemic,” the Mayor added that in keeping with U.S. Treasury guidelines, “we’re also recommending that some of the ARP funding goes to provide premium pay to city government workers needed to maintain critical operations, including in public health, safety and sanitation, during the COVID-19 health emergency.” The Mayor is also recommending that some of the ARP funds be held for additional COVID mitigation and prevention, if necessary.
The next step is for Metro Council to meet, review and approve the priority areas. After that, the Mayor’s office and council budget leaders will work with community partners on various proposals through an open public Request for Proposals process, which will result in the development of specific appropriations within each of the focus areas. Then, specific projects will be submitted to the full Council approval.
“As the Council resolution to be filed today says, the expectation is that we will propose, and Metro Council will approve, projects in each of the focus areas that promote equity and make a sustainable, significant community impact, rather than smaller projects that, while valuable, don’t have the potential to make lasting change in the community,” the Mayor said.
Councilman Hollander noted, “We have serious needs in Louisville, many of which have become more pronounced in the pandemic. The local fiscal recovery funds give us a remarkable opportunity to build back better and make lasting change. It’s been very heartening to see the public speak out about community needs and this resolution is responsive to many of the comments we received in surveys and public hearings. The establishment of priority areas will allow us to begin formally seeking out and evaluating projects, which is the next step in putting these dollars to work.”
Councilman Kramer said, “We are looking forward to establishing a set of priorities for spending so that we can begin considering specific projects and programs. Introduction of this Resolution will open discussion at the Council and will offer the administration a clear path forward in allocating these transformative funds.”
And Council President David James said, “This is the next step in moving forward with deciding how to allocate the ARP fund in Louisville Metro. I really want to thank all of the citizens who participated and provided such great input.”
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:
Bank On Louisville celebrates PNC's achievement as first bank to offer two Bank On certified accounts
National certification indicates PNC's accounts meet more than 25 features for safe, affordable consumer transaction accounts
LOUISVILLE, KY (August 12, 2021) - Bank On Louisville is proud to recognize PNC as the first bank to offer two products that meet the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund)'s Bank On national certification.
Both the PNC Foundation Checking and PNC SmartAccess® Prepaid Visa® Card accounts meet more than 25 national standards developed to ensure expanded access to safe and affordable financial products and services to the almost 36 million people in the United States who are outside of the mainstream financial system. Bank On’s 2021-2022 Standards require low-cost, no overdraft, and full-functioning features.
The National Safe Account Standards, co-created by consumer advocates, leading national nonprofit organizations, civic leaders and other financial institutions, designate both core and strongly recommended features that ensure low cost, high functionality and consumer safety. Bank On Louisville works with financial institutions, community organizations, local government leaders and federal regulators to connect Louisville residents to safe, affordable, and productive banking accounts. PNC is a founding participant of Bank On Louisville and continues to support the city’s program.
“PNC Bank is a longstanding partner and supporter of our financial inclusion work in Louisville,” said Erin Waddell, Co-Chair of Bank On Louisville. “We are absolutely thrilled that PNC joins only five other institutions in Louisville who have adopted the Standards and demonstrate a strong commitment to making banking accessible and affordable for all.”
PNC Bank joins Chase Bank, Citi Bank, Old National Bank, Truist Bank and U.S. Bank in offering certified accounts available in Louisville.
A hallmark of PNC’s Foundation Checking account is a money management course that is now available on mobile devices as part of the account on-boarding experience. Foundation Checking also offers low-balance alerts, and no overdraft or non-sufficient funds fees. A nominal $5 monthly service charge is waived for customers age 62 or older. Similarly, SmartAccess includes a mobile app, low-balance alerts, no overdraft fees and no fees for cashier’s checks.
“As a long-time supporter of the city’s Bank On program, PNC is committed to providing banking services for customers who may not have had access to traditional checking accounts in the past,” said Chuck Denny, PNC regional president for Louisville. “Now, community members have an added level of peace of mind and access to a cost-efficient solution for entering or re-entering the mainstream banking system that reflects our focus on helping all customers move forward financially.”
“The Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund is delighted to provide Bank On’s national certification to PNC Banks’ Foundation Checking and SmartAccess accounts, making it the first financial institution in the country to offer two nationally certified products,” said Jonathan Mintz, president and chief executive officer of the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund. “Particularly during this pandemic, a safe, affordable, and truly useful mainstream banking product in which to electronically deposit stimulus payments and from which to remotely pay bills is more important than ever. We applaud PNC’s decision literally to double down on its commitment to offering Bank On certified accounts.”
The goal of Bank On is to ensure that everyone has access to safe and affordable financial products and services. The Bank On National Account Standards identify critical product features for bank or credit union accounts making it easier for local coalitions across the country to connect consumers to accounts that meet their needs.
With the addition of PNC’s Foundation Checking and the SmartAccess® Prepaid Visa® Card that was certified last December, accounts that meet Bank On National Account Standards are now available at over 32,500 branches in all 50 states and Washington, DC; financial institutions with Bank On certified accounts already comprise almost 50% of the national deposit market share. In addition to the Foundation Checking and SmartAccess® Prepaid Visa® Card, more than 90 other Bank On certified accounts are available across the country. Data collected by the CFE Fund in partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis through Bank On’s national reporting platform shows that these accounts are meeting consumers’ needs; since their offering, millions of consumers have opened Bank On certified accounts, with approximately three quarters of them opened by consumers new to the financial institutions.
The CFE Fund leads the national Bank On movement, supporting 85 local and state coalitions across the country working to connect individuals and families to the financial mainstream through partnerships between governments, financial institutions, and community organizations. To learn more about Bank On and the National Account Standards click here, or follow the conversation on Twitter @CFEfund #BankOn.
About Bank On Louisville Launched in 2010, Bank On Louisville is a collaborative partnership between local government, financial institutions and community organizations that work to improve the financial stability of unbanked and underbanked residents in our Louisville community. To date, Bank On Louisville has helped connect more than 43,000 residents to safe and affordable bank accounts and connected more than 25,500 residents to quality financial education. Visit www.bankonlouisville.org for more information.
About PNC Bank PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.
About the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund) The CFE Fund supports municipal efforts to improve the financial stability of households by leveraging opportunities unique to local government. By translating cutting edge experience with large scale programs, research, and policy in cities of all sizes, the CFE Fund assists mayors and other local leaders to identify, develop, fund, implement, and research pilots and programs that help families build assets and make the most of their financial resources. The CFE Fund is currently working in over 100 cities and counties, and has disbursed over $52 million to local governments and their partners to support these efforts. For more information, please visit www.cfefund.org or follow us on Twitter at @CFEFund.
About Bank On Bank On coalitions are locally-led partnerships between local public officials; city, state, and federal government agencies; financial institutions; and community organizations that work together to help improve the financial stability of unbanked and underbanked individuals and families in their communities. The Bank On national initiative builds on a grassroots movement of over 85 coalitions in communities across the country, offering National Account Standards, capacity grant support, pilot funding, and a learning community. In addition to connecting unbanked individuals to accounts, Bank On programs raise public awareness, target outreach to the unbanked, and expand access to financial education. Visit www.cfefund.org/bankon for more information, or follow the conversation on Twitter @CFEFund #BankOn.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Stop feeding birds in Jefferson, Boone and Kenton Counties until further notice.
Clean all bird feedersand bird baths with a 10% bleach solution immediately, and then once per week thereafter.
Avoid handling birds, but wear disposable gloves if handling is necessary.
Keep pets away from sick or dead birds as a standard precaution.
Click here to report an observation of a sick or dead bird.
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.
JCPS News
JCPS Prepared for 2021-22 School Year
Pollio: ‘I want to assure parents and students that we are ready’
August 10, 2021 — For the first time in two years, Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) will open its doors for full-time, five-day-a-week instruction – in real life, and virtually – to more than 96,000 students [August 11].
“Throughout the uncertainty and quickly changing landscape of the past 18 months, our team has worked tirelessly to adjust to circumstances and updated guidance for a safe start to the school year,” said JCPS Superintendent Dr. Marty Pollio. “Having in-person instruction is extremely important to me as an educator. Nothing can replace the power of being in a classroom with a teacher and developing a relationship beyond the computer screen.”
As part of the district’s safety measures, masks will be required for every student and adult inside JCPS buildings, unless they have a completed medical waiver on file. In addition, students will have assigned seats on buses and in schools, ventilation systems and windows have been updated to improve airflow, and schools will receive enhanced cleaning every evening. Students will be spaced three feet apart and adults six feet from students and each other, when possible.
These protocols will make contact tracing easier and significantly reduce the number of students and staff required to quarantine when a positive COVID case is verified in their school, according to Dr. Eva Stone, manager of the district’s health services department.
Also [August 11], JCPS will launch its new virtual school for students in the sixth through 12th grade. The Pathfinder School of Innovation offers families the option of continuing with all-virtual instruction for students who thrived in Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI), or who are not comfortable returning to in-person learning. The Pathfinder School option is also open to elementary students this school year.
In order to support the more than 2,200 kindergarten through 12th-grade students who have applied to the Pathfinder School, JCPS has contracted with renowned programs Florida Virtual School, which provides instruction for the successful Barren Academy of Virtual and Expanded Learning, and Edmentum for teaching assistance.
“This has been an incredible task of pulling together this brand new school over the summer and building out our virtual elementary option two weeks after it was approved by our Board of Education,” Dr. Carmen Coleman, JCPS chief academic officer, said. “In an effort to ensure we have this option available for all families who choose virtual learning, we have contracted with excellent educational programs to provide these services for our Pathfinder students.”
“I want to assure parents and students that we are ready,” Pollio added. “It doesn’t mean there won’t be some unanticipated issues on the first day of school, but we’re doing our best to make sure our schools, including our virtual schools, are ready for students [August 11].”
JCPS Announces Updates for 2021-22 Transportation Service
District to transport more than 65,000 students every day
August 6, 2021 — Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) will have all of its 771 routes covered when buses roll for the start of the 2021-22 school year.
“Transportation is one of our most basic but critical functions, ensuring that we get kids to school and home again safely,” said Chris Perkins, JCPS chief operations officer. “We’re proud of the dedication and work that goes into carrying out this responsibility, especially in these unique circumstances that require additional measures to protect our students and staff.”
JCPS will follow all CDC guidelines for bus ridership, including taking extra steps to make sure that buses are as safe as possible for students:
All students must remain masked on the bus, unless they have a completed medical waiver on file. Drivers will have masks available if students don’t have one when they board the bus.
Hand sanitizer will also be available.
Drivers will clean seats and high-touch areas in between routes.
Windows will be open when possible.
Students will be assigned seats, to help with contact tracing in the event there is a positive case reported.
Buses will be at full capacity, with no restrictions on seating per CDC guidelines.
Perkins said the district has implemented numerous initiatives to increase the number of bus drivers, including numerous job fairs, and the board-approved $5,000 stipend and $6 shift differential for this school year.
“Incentives like these have helped JCPS keep most of our experienced drivers and recruit new ones for the upcoming school year,” Perkins said. “We’re also grateful for schools being flexible and collaborating with us to ensure we have every route, for every child who rides a bus, covered as we start the school year.”
In addition, JCPS has programs to help families get specific information on their child’s bus number and bus stop, according to Marcus Dobbs, executive administrator for Transportation Services.
Starting Monday, Aug. 9, parents will be able to dial 485-RIDE to speak with a member of the JCPS team who can provide important information on transportation-related questions.
The hotline will be available throughout the week at the following times:
Monday, Aug. 9 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 10 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 11 6 a.m.-7 p.m. (or final clear)
Thursday, Aug. 12 7 a.m.-6 p.m. (or final clear)
Friday, Aug. 13 7 a.m.-5 p.m. (or final clear)
Families can also check out the JCPS Bus Finder on the district’s website. Parents, guardians or students can enter their home address and school to find their bus number, nearest bus stop, and pickup times
JCPS expects to transport more than 65,000 students twice a day, every day, this school year, which began Aug. 11.
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 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:
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.
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.
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.
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).
LFPL has lots of free programs, storytimes, and other activities for kids and teens this summer. Learn more at www.LFPL.org/events.
Louisville Zoo News
Mayor Announces New Louisville Zoo Director
LOUISVILLE (August 13, 2021) – Mayor Greg Fischer announced today the appointment of Daniel Maloney (Dan) as the new director of the Louisville Zoo. Maloney is only the fifth director in the Zoo’s 52-year history. His appointment comes after an extensive national search managed by the Chicago firm Gomez Partners.
“Dan has the experience and leadership skills to successfully move our world-class Zoo into the future,” said Mayor Fischer. “His passions for animal care and welfare, conservation and guest experience fuel a deep understanding of the multi-layered zoo world. He will be an asset to the Zoo and our community.”
Maloney has decades of experience within Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoos. He comes to Louisville from the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (JZG) in Jacksonville, Florida, where he has been the Deputy Zoo Director for Animal Care, Conservation and Wellness since 2010. In his role there, he helped raise funds for the JZG’s capital campaign, served as the Zoo’s point person with the AZA, planned and developed multi-million-dollar budgets and worked with staff to create unique guest experiences.
“I am thrilled to join the dedicated Louisville Zoo team, and to be part of Chief Vincent James’ exceptional Community Building portfolio,” said Maloney. “We will continue to further our community’s connections to nature and advancing conservation education throughout the Metro region. My top priorities are ensuring optimal animal care and welfare, delivering superior guest experiences, and providing a safe, inclusive space for our patrons. Accredited zoos and aquariums are essential centers for learning about wildlife and for sparking curiosity about animals from around the world. My wife Laura and I are so excited to make Louisville our new home.”
Maloney has served as General Manager for Life Sciences at Australia’s Melbourne Zoo, a Curator for the Wildlife Conservation Society and as Vice President and General Curator for the New Orleans’ Audubon Zoo, where he led the crew who remained behind during Hurricane Katrina. He’s also a proud and active Rotarian, having served as the president of the Rotary Club of West Jacksonville from 2019 to 2020.
He will assume the Zoo Director role in early October and replaces retiring Zoo director John Walczak, who has been with the Louisville Zoo for 36 years (including 17 as Zoo director). During Walczak’s time, the Zoo has added the award-winning Islands, Gorilla Forest and Glacier Run exhibits, each recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for excellence and innovation. Also, under Walczak’s leadership, the Zoo celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2019, as well as milestones in its Black-Footed Ferret Conservation Center, which marked its 25th anniversary in 2015; the much-anticipated and important birth of male elephant calf Fitz; and the transport and care of wild-born, rescued polar bear, Qannik.
“Dan is a dedicated professional and innovative leader with a passion and drive for the mission of an AZA-accredited Zoo,” Walczak said. “He will lead the Zoo, the staff and its volunteers confidently into a new era. He will be a strong advocate for our community as well. I leave the Zoo in good hands, and I look forward to watching and supporting the growth of this treasured cultural asset into the future.”
As Zoo Director, Maloney will be responsible for shaping the Zoo’s vision, as well as overseeing the work of 120 full-time, 10 part-time and more than 100 seasonal employees.
THROO THE ZOO
Registration Begins for the Wildest 5K in Town -- Presented by Norton Audubon Hospital
Registration for the Zoo’s annual Throo the Zoo 5K will begin August 15, 2021. The wildest 5K in town presented by Norton Audubon Hospital is set to occur at 8 a.m. on Saturday, November 13, 2021 at the Louisville Zoo. Race proceeds benefit the Louisville Zoo, which is dedicated to its mission of bettering the bond between people and our planet.
One of Louisville’s most distinctive road events, the course takes participants “throo” the Zoo — past some of their favorite animals and exhibits. The start and finish lines are just outside the Zoo gate, but along the way, participants will be able to see animal ambassadors like bears, giraffes and sloths. The chip-timed course is open to runners and walkers at all fitness levels, including guests with strollers.
“Norton Audubon Hospital is excited to be part of Throo the Zoo again this year,” said Randy Hamilton, chief administrative officer at Norton Audubon Hospital. “Not only is the Zoo one of our neighbors in the Audubon community, but also a wonderful asset to our region. As a hospital organization, we value the great benefits of exercise and family fun the Zoo offers.”
Registration for this important Zoo fundraiser starts as low as $30 through September 30 and can be completed online at louisvillezoo.org/throo. Register early before prices increase on October 1 to $35 and again on November 7 to $40. Registration on the morning of the race at the Zoo is $50.
Drive-thru packet pick up will take place in the parking lot at the Zoo on Thursday, November 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. and Friday, November 12 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Louisville Zoo will hold a virtual costume contest. Race participants will be invited to take photos of themselves in costume at the race and share it on the Zoo’s Facebook post (Facebook.com/LouisvilleZoo) on the day of the race, November 13, 2021. The Zoo will share the submissions for voting starting on Monday, November 15.
Racers unable to attend the November 13 event, or who prefer to get their miles in at home, can register for the Zoo’s Throo the Zoo Virtual 5K race. The virtual race option allows guests an opportunity to complete the 5K distance on their own at a date, time and course of their choosing. Participants will be mailed a finisher medal and Zoo ticket for a future visit, allowing them to be part of the fun, no matter where they race. Pricing for the Virtual Throo the Zoo 5K begins at $25.
Throo the Zoo is presented by Norton Audubon Hospital with additional support by Jimmy John’s, Louisville Water, Pepsico, Service Systems Associates, Swag’s Sport Shoes and Total Body Chiropractic.
ROAD CLOSURES: Illinois Ave. will be closed from Grenade Ave. to Trevilian from 7 to 8:45 a.m. and Illinois Ave. from Taylor Ave. to Grenade Ave. from 7:45 – 8:45 a.m.
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The Louisville Zoo, a non-profit organization and state zoo of Kentucky, is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
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.
***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
