Due to the COVID-19 State of Emergency, the Department of Revenue Office of Property Valuation and the Finance and Administration Cabinet, in Frankfort, have issued an Executive Order that will delay the property tax calendar by 60 days.
In Compliance with KRS 133.045, Jefferson County PVA, Colleen Younger announces the 2020 Jefferson County Real Property Assessment Roll will officially open for public inspection July 6– July 20, 2020. Younger is increasing the conferencing time beyond the statutory 13 days to better accommodate the people of Jefferson County. The 2020 conference schedule will open at Noon on June 26, 2020 and run through close of business at 4:00 pm on July 20, 2020. This gives property owners who wish to appeal their property value an additional 10 days to complete the PVA conference.
The Jefferson County PVA is also modifying the 2020 property reassessment. The original quadriennial plan had MLS Areas 2, 3, and 7 scheduled for reassessment in 2020. The 2020 Reassessment will now encompass new construction, 2019 sales and improvement permits for improvement. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all areas previously scheduled for reassessment in 2020 have now been moved to 2021.
Any property owner who wishes to appeal their property assessment must first conference with the Jefferson County Property Valuation Administrator online at www.jeffersonpva.ky.gov. Property Owners who disagree with their property assessment must provide documentation to support their opinion of value.
Out of an abundance of caution all 2020 PVA Conferencing will now be done through our online tool on the PVA website www.jeffersonpva.ky.gov or by teleconference.
Appointments for teleconferences can be made by calling the PVA office at 502-574-6224.
The PVA premium service website, including the neighborhood sales research tool is available free of charge during the COVID-19 State of Emergency through the end of conferencing at www.jeffersonpva.ky.gov. The PVA premium service website is available free of charge year round at all Louisville Free Public Libraries and at our the PVA office.
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 Public Works intends to contract Guardian Retention Systems, who currently has a contract with KYTC, to build and install a barrier wall to mitigate the reoccurring landslides on St. Anthony's Church Road. The barrier will be constructed of trapezoidal concrete bags that are 2-4' in height. This will serve as the most cost-effective and timely solution. Construction of the barrier is expect to cost $152,000 and last one-week (weather permitting). Councilman Yates secured funding from this project this week in the Budget Committee and final approval will occur next Thursday at the Louisville Metro Council Meeting. Construction can be scheduled once the funds have officially appropriated.
The concrete bags are intended to absorb the lateral earth pressures caused by landslides and shift the pressures downward due to the unique trapezoidal shape of the concrete bags.
Once the concrete cures the bags can be removed to provide an aesthetically more appealing exposed surface. Councilman Yates is working directly with Public Works to find the most appealing solution.
 
 Savannah Parrish in the Hardwood Forest Neighborhood is doing her part to brighten her neighborhood's spirits while we are all shut in with her excellent arts and crafts. If you live in the Hardwood Forest neighborhood, be sure to check her out on the neighborhood page! Thank you to her mother, Linda Parrish for helping get this positive story out there!
Do you know a positive #HealthyAtHome or #TogetherKY story? Share that story by emailing David directly at David.Yates@LouisvilleKY.gov so we can share with our entire community!
Litter is always bad...but now it's worse! Gloves and masks all over streets and parking lots!
There’s a noticeable difference in the type of trash currently littering our streets and parking lots. It’s not just plastic bags, convenience food packaging, and cigarette butts – it’s latex gloves, masks, and wipes. These items are being used to protect people from possible COVID-19 contamination, but when they’re not disposed of properly there is a risk of spreading the virus. Proper trash disposal is even more important due to this possibility. According to Keep America Beautiful, this is happening all over the country. As with any type of trash you generate, it is your duty as a responsible citizen to dispose of it properly. Help keep Louisville’s streets and parking lots clean by not littering. There are typically trash receptacles in front of stores or even in their parking lots. And if not, keep a bag inside your vehicle to place the items in and then put in your trash container at home. This goes for all the other trash too!
Lighter traffic pattern enables New Dixie Highway crews to shift final surfacing work to daylight hours
Crews working on the $35 million New Dixie Highway project will this week begin final surfacing work – the last portion of the project expected to involve lane closures.
Originally, crews were expected to complete final surfacing in the evening and overnight to avoid impeding traffic during peak times. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, has meant a significant reduction in daytime driving on Dixie Highway, allowing for the final surfacing work to be done in daylight. Traffic has decreased with the cancellation of schools and churches, as well as restrictions on restaurants and retail.
Moving the work to the daytime hours will improve the quality of the final surface. Even with bright lights brought to the work site, workers are not able to see all indents and imperfections in the surfacing at night. Doing the work during the daylight hours will improve the smoothness of the road, which should be a noticeable improvement to drivers.
The final surfacing and striping will be completed by mid-May. Crews are also continuing to work on technology components of the New Dixie Highway, including improved signaling
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Signage along Dixie Hwy.
Now that the New Dixie Hwy Project is in its final stages, it is more important than ever to take pride in our roadways and keep them clean!
The District 14 office has received several complaints regarding paper signs that are being hung along Dixie Hwy. If you are a small business owner, please DO NOT hang these signs on telephone poles or bus stops. If you notice any signs hung up, please consider taking them down and disposing of them in the nearest trash receptacle.
We can all do out part to keep Dixie Hwy clean!
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 Every legislative session develops a unique personality. COVID-19 shaped the character of the 154th regular session of the Kentucky General Assembly that ended today.
The worldwide pandemic prompted the legislature, an institution steeped in tradition, to make changes to usual procedures. Lawmakers went from considering drafts of a two-year state budget to instead passing an austere one-year spending plan, an acknowledgment of the difficulties of making long-term revenue projections amid the economic turmoil of a pandemic. COVID-19 relief bills were quickly drafted and acted upon during the latter part the session.
Efforts to promote social distancing left the marble corridors of the 109-year-old Capitol quieter than usual for a budget session. Broadcast coverage of the session was expanded after the general public was restricted from visiting the Capitol. House members were allowed to cast votes while not in the chamber. Ultimately, the legislators gaveled into session for only 53 days -- seven days less than allowed by the Kentucky Constitution.
The $11.3 billion executive branch budget, however, will keep steady the basic per-pupil funding for Kentucky schools and support safety measures envisioned when lawmakers approved a major school safety bill last year. The spending plan, contained in House Bill 352, also provides the full actuarial-recommended level of funding for state public pension systems.
A COVID-19 relief measure, contained in Senate Bill 150, will loosen requirements for unemployment benefits and extend help to self-employed workers and others who would otherwise not be eligible.
It will also expand telemedicine options by allowing out-of-state providers to accept Kentucky patients, provide immunity for health care workers who render care or treatment in good faith during the current state of emergency, extend the state’s income tax filing deadline to July 15, address open meeting laws by allowing meetings to take place utilizing live audio or live video teleconferencing, and require the governor to declare in writing the date that the state of emergency ends.
Additional bills that the General Assembly approved include measures on the following topics:
Addiction treatment: Senate Bill 191 addresses certification and educational requirements for alcohol and drug counselors. The bill also directs Kentucky to establish guidelines employers can use to develop programs to help more individuals struggling with substance use disorders while maintaining employment.
Alcohol: House Bill 415 will allow distillers, wineries and breweries to be licensed to ship directly to consumers -- in and out of Kentucky. The bill imposes shipping limits of 10 liters of distilled spirits, 10 cases of wine and 10 cases of malt beverages per month. Packages of alcohol will have to be clearly labeled and be signed for by someone 21 or older. HB 415 will also prohibit shipping to dry territories, communities where alcohol sales are prohibited by local laws.
Eating disorders: Senate Bill 82 will establish the Kentucky Eating Disorder Council. The group will oversee the development and implementation of eating disorder awareness, education, prevention and research programs.
Elections: Senate Bill 2, dubbed the voter photo ID bill, will require voters to present photographic identification at the polls, starting in the general election in November. If a voter does not have a photo ID, they will be able to show another form of ID and affirm, under the penalty of perjury, that they are qualified to vote. The bill also allows poll workers to vouch for a voter they personally know even if that person has no valid ID. Another provision of SB 2 will provide a free state-issued ID card for individuals who are at least 18 and do not have a valid driver’s license. It currently costs $30 for that ID.
Hemp: House Bill 236 will conform Kentucky’s hemp laws to federal guidelines that changed after the passage of the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill. That bill removed hemp from the list of federally controlled substances, which allowed farmers across the nation to grow hemp legally. The bill also expands the number of labs authorized to test hemp for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive component found in hemp and other types of cannabis.
Human rights: House Bill 2 will require a national anti-human trafficking hotline number to be advertised in airports, truck stops, train stations and bus stations. Posters with the hotline number are currently required in rest areas. The bill also closes a loophole in the state sex offender registry by adding specific human trafficking offenses to the definition of a sex crime.
Senate Bill 72 will ban female genital mutilation, often referred to as FGM, in Kentucky. A federal ban that had been in place for more than two decades was found unconstitutional in 2018. The bill will also make performing FGMs on minors a felony, ban trafficking of girls across state lines for FGMs and strip the licenses of medical providers convicted of the practice. The World Health Organization classifies FGM, a procedure that intentionally alters or causes injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons, a human rights violation.
Infrastructure protection. House Bill 44 will strengthen security for critical infrastructure across Kentucky by specifying that above-ground natural gas and petroleum pipelines in addition to certain cable television facilities aren’t suitable areas for drone flights. The legislation also defines tampering with the assets as felony criminal mischief.
Jurors: Senate Bill 132 will add people with state-issued personal identification cards to the pool of potential jurors in the county where they live. Currently, the pool draws from driver’s license lists, tax rolls and voter registration lists.
Lt. Governor: House Bill 336 will let gubernatorial candidates select their running mate for lieutenant governor before the second Tuesday in August instead of during the spring primary campaign.
Marsy’s Law: Senate Bill 15 would enshrine certain rights for crime victims in the state constitution. Those would include the right to be notified of all court proceedings, reasonable protection from the accused, timely notice of a release or escape, and the right to full restitution. SB 15 is tied to a national movement to pass statutes that have been collectively known as Marsy’s law in honor of Marsy Nicholas, a 21-year-old California college student who was stalked and killed by an ex-boyfriend. A similar proposed constitutional amendment passed the General Assembly in 2018 and was subsequently approved by voters, but the Kentucky Supreme Court ruled that the law was invalid due to unconstitutional ballot language.
Now that it has been approved by lawmakers, Kentucky voters will decide on the proposed constitutional amendment this November.
Mental health: House Bill 153 will establish the Kentucky Mental Health First Aid Training Program. The plan would be aimed at training professionals and members of the public to identify and assist people with mental health or substance abuse problems. The program would also promote access to trainers certified in mental health first aid training.
Senate Bill 122 will make a change to Tim’s Law of 2017, a much-heralded law that has rarely been used by the courts. The law allowed judges to order assisted outpatient treatment for people who had been involuntarily hospitalized at least twice in the past 12 months. SB 122 extends the period to 24 months.
Mobile phones: House Bill 208 will require wireless providers of Lifeline federal-assistance telephone service to make monthly 911 service fee payments to the state. It will restore over $1 million a year in funding to 911 service centers.
Pensions: House Bill 484 separates the administration of the County Employees’ Retirement System (CERS) from the Kentucky Retirement Systems’ board of trustees. CERS accounts for 76 percent of the pension assets KRS manages and makes up 64 percent of the KRS membership -- but controls only 35 percent of the seats on the KRS board.
Public health: House Bill 129, dubbed the public health transformation bill, will modernize public health policy and funding in Kentucky. It will do this by streamlining local health departments by getting them to refocus on their statutory duties. Those are population health, enforcement of regulations, emergency preparedness and communicable disease control.
REAL ID: House Bill 453 will allow the transportation cabinet to establish regional offices for issuing driver’s licenses and personal identification cards. It also requires a mobile unit to visit every county multiple times per year to issue such credentials. It will ensure Kentucky complies with the federal REAL ID ACT enacted on the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation.
School safety: Senate Bill 8 will require school resource officers (SROs) to be armed with a gun. The measure also clarifies various other provisions of the School Safety and Resiliency Act concerning SROs and mental health professionals in schools.
Sex offenders: House Bill 204 will prohibit sex offenders from living within 1,000 feet of a publicly leased playground. Sex offenders must already follow these standards for publicly owned parks.
Students’ wellbeing: Senate Bill 42 will require student IDs for middle school, high school and college students to list contacts for national crisis hotlines specializing in domestic violence, sexual assault and suicide.
Taxes: Senate Bill 5 will require library boards, and other so-called special-purpose governmental entities, to get approval from a county fiscal court or city council before increasing taxes.
Terms of constitutional offices.House Bill 405 proposes a constitutional amendment that would increase the term of office for commonwealth's attorneys from six years to eight years beginning in 2030 and increase the term of office for district judges from four years to eight years beginning in 2022. It would also increase the experience requirement to be a district judge from two years to eight years.
The proposal is seen as a way to align terms of service among elected judicial officials so judicial redistricting could be more easily achieved in future sessions. And redistricting is seen as a way to balance uneven caseloads among courts without creating expensive new judgeships.
The proposed constitutional amendment will be decided on by voters this November.
Tobacco: Senate Bill 56 will raise the age to purchase tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, to 21 from 18. The move will bring Kentucky’s statute in line with a new federal law raising the age to 21. The bill will remove status offenses for youth who purchase, use or possess tobacco, often called PUP laws, and will shift penalties to retailers who fail to follow the increased age restriction.
Veterans: House Bill 24 will support plans to build a veterans nursing home in Bowling Green. The legislation appropriates $2.5 million needed to complete design and preconstruction work for the 90-bed facility. That must be completed before federal funding is allocated to start construction on the proposed $30 million facility.
 Junior Achievement provides Free Online Resources!
With schools closed, Junior Achievement is providing free online resources to families and teachers. We are doing this so our kids can spend more time planning for and dreaming about tomorrow, and less time worrying about today. Junior Achievement is ready to support families and teachers during this period of uncertainty.
The resources are on-line, ready-to-use, include everything needed and are offered for all grade levels. Students can do the lessons on their own, with a parent or guardian, or with their teacher. Access Junior Achievement’s free resources HERE.
   
 The "Talk With David" scheduled on April 14th has been POSTPONED to May 19th due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. If a May 19th in-person "Talk With David" is not feasible Councilman David Yates intends to host an online "Talk With David" providing updates from around the District. Please stay #HealthyAtHome as #TeamKentucky stands #TogetherKY to fight #COVID19
To view each program in more detail, click on the headings!
There are additional loan programs available for businesses to utilize! To view them click here!
The loan program will provide zero-interest loans, with no payments for 12 months, to our smallest businesses (10 full-time employees or fewer) impacted by COVID-19. Small businesses can receive up to $25,000 to cover immediate expenses. Applications will open on Monday, April 6, at www.lhomeky.org. More detail to come.
The CARES Act passed the U.S. Senate on March 25, 2020, the U.S. House of Representatives on March 27, 2020 and was signed into law on March 27, 2020 as part of the congressional response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The portion dubbed the Keeping American Workers Paid & Employed Act focuses specifically on relief for businesses.
Individuals typically not covered by unemployment insurance, including self-employed, independent contractors, freelance workers, substitute teachers, childcare workers employed by religious affiliated organizations and non-profits can now file for unemployment. Those who left their job for “good cause” because of reasonable risk of exposure (self-quarantine) or due to caring for a family member affected by the virus are also eligible.
In order to efficiently process unemployment claims, Kentuckians filing for unemployment benefits should follow a schedule designating what day they can file their claim. The schedule, which is based the first initial in their last name, as can be found HERE. Individuals filing for unemployment benefits should also visit www.kcc.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx.
Under the presidential emergency declaration, this action allows all individual and other non-corporate tax filers to defer up to $1 million of federal income tax (including self-employment tax) payments due on April 15, 2020, until July 15, 2020, without penalties or interest. On Friday, March 20, the filing deadline was moved from April 15 to July 15. Learn more here: www.irs.gov/coronavirus
Louisville Metro Revenue Commission (LMRC) and the Kentucky Department of Revenue have extended tax filing and payment deadlines from April 15, 2020 to July 15, 2020. For information about the state decision to defer filing and payments of state income tax, visit the Kentucky Department of Revenue website.
LMRC has extended the 2019 annual occupational license tax filing and payment deadline for all taxpayers, including those who filed quarterly estimated deposits in 2019 and those who pay once a year. LMRC also has shifted the April 15, 2020 quarterly deposit deadline to May 15, 2020 for entities required to file a quarterly estimated payment. All other LMRC deadlines will remain in place. For more information, visit www.louisvilleky.gov/government/revenue-commission.
LMRC will no longer take walk-in appointments. Anyone with questions can contact LMRC staff at (502) 574-4860 or via email.
Bank on Louisville has gathered information about how local banks and credit unions are supporting customers impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. You will need to contact your bank or credit union to participate in relief programs as they are not automatic.
To support restaurants and accommodate those who are picking up carry-out orders and gift cards, the parking authority is allowing free parking at meters adjacent to restaurants for up to 15 minutes. Cars must use their flashers.
To view the complete list of resources for small business please click the link below:
https://louisvilleky.gov/government/louisville-forward/small-business-resources-covid-19
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 If you are young and healthy consider helping our Southwest Community Ministries (SWCMs) or South Louisville Community Ministries by delivering Meals on Wheels or help package meals for our neighbors most at risk. Volunteering is the best way to give back and take action in this incredibly difficult time. Together we will fight COVID-19 and together we will persevere.
Sign up today to deliver meals, pack lunches and save lives: click here!
 While we are all cooped up keeping our community safe by staying home and observing social distancing when having to go out for life-sustaining reasons, we can all look forward to celebrating the end of this health crisis with our favorite events and activities at the end of Summer and beginning of Fall.
Here is a list of some of these great area events to help you plan your post-COVID-19 vacation.
- August 15 - Thunder Over Louisville
- August 22 - Kentucky Derby Festival
- August 23 - Indy 500
- September 1 - 30 - Bourbon Heritage Month
- September 3 - UofL Football vs. NC State
- September 4 - Kentucky Oaks
- September 5 - Kentucky Derby
- September 12-13 - Hometown Rising Country Music Festival
- September 17-20 - Louder Than Life Music Festival
- September 25-27 - Bourbon & Beyond Music Festival
 You can see which companies are hiring right now in the Louisville area and how you can apply at our new online Job Board, created in partnership with Greater Louisville Inc. in response to COVID-19.
Job listings are based on information submitted from employers and are updated daily. Click the link below to see avaliable job opportunities!
  Kentucky unemployment insurance implements new procedures to manage influx of claims from workers affected by COVID-19 state of emergency
 Per Governor Beshear’s new Executive Order, effective Thursday, March 26, 2020 at 8pm only Life-Sustaining Businesses May Remain Open. All other businesses shall cease operations, except to maintain the "minimum basic operations" or the minimum necessary activities to maintain the business.
- To view the Executive Order please click below!
https://governor.ky.gov/attachments/20200307_Executive-Order_2020-216.pdf
- To view the timeline of response efforts please click below!
https://governor.ky.gov/covid-19-response
- To view Small Business Resources please click below!
https://louisvilleky.gov/government/louisville-forward/small-business-resources-covid-19
 Help support your local Southend Restaurants and their employees by participating in the "Gift Card Give Back" program initiated by Councilman David Yates!
Your favorite restaurants have agreed to dedicate 20% of every gift card purchased back to the employees who are being directly effected by COVID-19. By participating in this program you are not only helping those employees, but the entire community.
Please encourage your favorite Southend Gem to join this growing list of restaurants and go out and buy a gift card for someone you love to help support our local economy!
You can check out the complete list of restaurants and their websites by clicking on the link below:
Until at least May 10th, Mayor Fischer has cancelled all City-permitted events or events held in Louisville Metro facilities.
This includes, but is not limited to: events at local libraries, Derby Festival events, the Give-A-Day Week of Service,
  Bars and Restaurants
Mayor Fischer said he supports the decision by Gov. Andy Beshear to order bars and restaurants in the state to close temporarily and allow only carryout or delivery food service.
“Louisville’s food and beverage establishments are a critical piece of our economy – for the city and its residents and visitors – but these are unprecedented times for our city, nation, and world and we must continue to make our decisions based on the public health and safety of all our residents,” the Mayor said.
LMPD
- Conducting rolling roll calls: Rather than have officers gather together at the start of each shift at their division headquarters, commanders will request them to call off via radio from wherever they are in the division.
- Providing security and traffic control support for Metro-run food distribution sites as they go operational today (Tuesday).
- Limiting public access to police facilities – including the main headquarters, division headquarters buildings, the property room, the LMPD Service Center and the tow lot.
- In order to cut down on the risk of face-to-face exposure, LMPD is increasing the capacity of its telephone reporting unit. More calls for service will be sent to that unit for situations where a report can be taken by phone instead of dispatching an officer.
- Using state forms for reporting on non-injury accidents, as is done during bad weather.
- Suspended all training except for LMPD recruits who are currently in the Academy. Academy training continues with precautions in place to allow for social distancing.
Louisville Fire Department
LFD will limit patient contact on non-traumatic incidents and patients not in immediate distress.
- Crews will consider reducing the number of personnel making direct patient contact.
- Crews will keep further distance during patient assessment to limit exposure.
- Post patient care: Crews will continue to frequently disinfect apparatus and equipment
LFD has suspended:
- Home Safety Checks, with the exception of 311 MetroCall requests.
- Community Involvement Programs and public access to fire facilities.
- Community Action Programs.
- Target Hazard Surveys conducted by fire suppression companies.
- Routine Building Inspections conducted by the LFD Fire Prevention Bureau.
- Note: Buildings that pose eminent life hazards such as an overcrowding situation or structural instability will continue to be inspected, and codes will continue to be enforced.
Metro EMS
- Performing call-ahead notifications to hospital facilities if transporting a patient who may fit the parameters of suspected COVID-19, which allows for special intake procedures at the facility to reduce the spread of the virus.
- Ambulances are being decontaminated multiple times each shift, with a deep decontamination after any suspected contact with COVID-19 and at the conclusion of each shift
- In-person training and unnecessary gatherings are suspended.
- EMS employees are encouraged to notify command staff if they or a family member is sick, and to not report to work if so.
Metro Animal Services
- Animal Control officers will only respond to the most serious incidents involving a human and domestic animal in progress, or to assist first responders.
- The LMAS Shelter at 3528 Newburg Road will be open only for adoptions, citizens looking for a lost pet, fosters, and stray pet surrenders.
Louisville Free Public Library
The Main Library and branches are closed. Library staff is teleworking when possible. Fines for overdue books and other material are temporarily suspended. Patrons should not try to return borrowed materials. LFPL offers access to eBooks, eMagazines, downloadable audiobooks, and streaming movies online
Metro Codes & Regulations
- Property maintenance enforcement will be focused on exterior inspections, but interior inspections will be conducted, if necessary, to address health and safety concerns such as electrical, plumbing, and sewage hazards. Violations will still be issued if warranted.
- Codes & Regulations is working with property owners who may need additional time to correct non-hazardous conditions.
- Construction review staff will prioritize inspections.
- Section 8 inspections will be limited to initials inspections and follow-up of previous failed inspections.
- Vacant lot crews will stagger shifts and only perform prioritized work orders.
- ABC applications can be dropped off on the first floor of the Metro Development Center, 444 S. Fifth St.
Metro Office of Resilience & Community Services - Neighborhood Place
- The seven Neighborhood Place locations will close to walk-in traffic starting on Wednesday.
- For information on financial assistance, call (502) 363-1424
- For WIC assistance, call (502) 574-7975.
- If you need to drop off LIHEAP paperwork, please leave your documents in the red box at the Neighborhood Place door.
- For information on Food Stamps, Medicaid, K-TAP, and Child Care, please call (855) 306-8959.
MSD
During this period of taking precautions related to the COVID-19 virus, Louisville MSD will continue to provide services. If you have a sanitary sewer or drainage need, MSD Customer Relations at 502-587-0603, will be staffed to take your request. As we do our work in the community, we will not approach property owners to keep appropriate social distances.
Metro Revenue Commission
- Suspending face-to-face customer service.
- Call (502) 574-4860 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to connect with the taxpayer services, legal, audit, and compliance divisions for any assistance you may need.
TARC
- TARC established a COVID-19 Task Force on March 6th that meets daily and is responsible for providing a rapid, controlled, and effective response to COVID-19.
- All TARC vehicles, including fixed-route buses and TARC3 vehicles, are being cleaned and sanitized daily in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control. TARC is exceeding the guidelines of most transit agencies concerning COVID-19 sanitization techniques.
- The TARC Safety & Security Department has been taking additional steps in response to COVID-19, providing kits to drivers that include gloves, sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes.
PARC
- Motorists must still pay to park in metered spots. Parking violations will still be issued but booting has been suspended.
- To help support the local food and beverage industry, PARC will allow 15 minutes of free meter parking in spots near restaurants if you are picking up a carryout order or buying a gift card. Make sure to turn on your flashers.
Louisville Parks & Recreation
- The city’s 120 parks, including its 18 Olmsted-designed parks will remain open with no restrictions on access. The 6,700-acre Jefferson Memorial Forest will also stay open, but the Welcome Center is closed. Parks employees are increasing cleaning protocols and implementing social distancing.
- Louisville’s 10 municipal golf courses will remain open for play. Parks has taken several steps to ensure the safety of players and employees:
- In the clubhouses, food service will be limited to takeout only. Tables and chairs will be removed to prevent social gathering, and patrons are discouraged from congregating inside them.
- Additionally, bathrooms and touchpoints will be cleaned multiple times daily, credit card terminals will be cleaned after every use, and clubhouse employees will use gloves during every transaction.
- Golf carts will be limited to a single rider per cart, and carts will be thoroughly cleaned after each use. Golfers are encouraged to keep six feet away from each other during play, and flags are to be left in the holes at all times.
- The Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center is closed.
- The city’s 13 community centers are temporarily closed to the public through April 5.
- The Wilderness Louisville Senior Center is closed.
- Parks will not be accepting rentals of facilities and shelters through April 5. All rentals through April 5 have been canceled. Those with rental agreements through Louisville Parks and Recreation will have the option of a refund or a rescheduled date.
Parks
The city’s 120 parks, including its 18 Olmsted-designed parks and the 6,700-acre Jefferson Memorial Forest, will remain open with no restrictions on access. Jefferson Memorial Forest’s Welcome Center also will be open to the public. Parks employees are increasing cleaning protocols and implementing social distancing.
The city’s 13 community centers are temporarily closed to the public through April 5.
The Wilderness Louisville Senior Center is closed.
The city’s 10 municipal golf courses will remain open. Contact the course to make a tee time.
Metro Parks will not be accepting rentals of facilities and shelters through April 5. All rentals through April 5 were canceled by the close of business Friday, March 13. Those with rental agreements through Louisville Parks and Recreation will have the option of a refund or a rescheduled date.
Zoo
The Zoo is temporarily closed. While there have been no known cases of exposure to COVID-19 at the Zoo, the decision to close was made to further support efforts to reduce the rapid spread of the virus and to protect the health and wellbeing of Zoo staff and the community. The animal care team and other essential personnel will remain active at the Zoo; however, staff who are able to work from home will be encouraged to do so. The Asian Lantern Festival has been temporarily closed as well.
Metro Corrections
Inmate visitation has been suspended at the Louisville Jail for at least three weeks. The decision was made based on a recommendation from Gov. Andy Beshear.
LG&E
Louisville Gas & Electric Co. on Monday said that it will stop disconnecting customers with unpaid bills until May 1. The city’s electric utility said is also waiving new late fees incurred during this period.
Click here to view the LG&E Press Release!
 Kroger
Meijer
Walmart
- Hours of operation are from 6am to 11pm until further notice.
- To order curbside pickup or delivery please click the following link, https://www.walmart.com/cart
Businesses opening only for residents over 60 and those most vulnerable to COVID-19:
- Target (first hour of business on Wednesday)
- Dollar General (first hour of business every day)
- Wal-Mart (first hour of business every Tuesday between March 24 and April 28)
- Kroger (7-8 a.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
- Rainbow Blossom (first hour of business every day)
- Whole Foods (first hour of business every day)
- Costco (8-9 a.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
- Aldi (8:30-9:30 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursday)
- Meijer (7-8 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays)
- Sam's Club (7-9 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday)
- Big Lots (first hour of business every day)
- Fresh Market (8-9 a.m. Monday through Friday)
- Sav-A-Lot, Taylor Boulevard (10-11 a.m.)
- Trader Joe's (9-10 a.m. daily)
- Walgreen's (8-9 a.m. on Tuesday)
 How to Report Non-Compliance
Residents who see businesses defying the order to close or curtail their activities can report those violations in several ways:
State of Kentucky – 1-833-KY-SAFER / 1-833-597-2337 (tollfree)
City of Louisville – Metro311
Due to an increased volume of phone calls, city officials are asking residents to contact Metro311 via the web if possible. Your complaints will still be addressed, and your questions will be answered.
 COVID-19 has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. Please take it seriously by reviewing some of the below handouts and instituting these suggestions and information into your daily life.
If you would like more information about COVID-19 please see the following resources:
   
 Expanded Telehealth
UofL Health – Telehealth is available to established and qualifying new patients by calling our primary care access line: 502-588-4343. A scheduling specialist will help determine whether a telehealth or in-person visit best serves the need of the patient.
The telehealth appointment is similar to an in-person appointment with a provider. During the visit, the patient will talk about his/her current health concerns and learn what to do.
- The visit can take place from a location that is most convenient and comfortable for
the patient.
- Providers will use a video-based application to speak with the patient by phone, tablet
or computer.
- The telemedicine platform is secure and HIPPA compliant.
- The patient’s photo and voice will not be recorded or stored.
- The patient’s privacy and rights will be respected and ensured.
Through UofL Health – Telehealth, our providers can provide an initial assessment of symptoms related to COVID-19, plus treat common conditions like colds and flu, sore throats,
rashes, allergies, bladder infections and more. Providers may prescribe medication, if appropriate, recommend over-the-counter medication or provide home care options. If needed, the provider may refer patients to an appropriate UofL Physicians – Primary Care location, specialist or to an emergency department.
Updated Visitor Policy
Because of the current COVID-19 pandemic and anticipation of a surge of cases in Kentucky, UofL Health is constantly evaluating and updating our visitor policy out of care and concern for the safety of our patients and staff. We understand the difficulty that these decisions may mean for our patients and their loved ones, and appreciate your support in ensuring that the most current policy is followed.
Effective immediately, no visitors will be allowed in the treatment areas of any UofL Health Emergency Departments – including UofL Health – Mary & Elizabeth Hospital -- except for the following:
- Life-threatening illnesses as determined by the attending physician and/or charge RN (severe trauma/critically ill from something other than COVID-19): one family member at-a-time for a specified period. Minors will be allowed one visitor (parent or guardian) in the room after appropriate screening and will be required to wear a mask.
- Any patient that requires special needs, which can include those with a disability, cognitive impairment, developmentally-disabled individuals with a variety of personal, educational and vocational tasks, etc. will be allowed one visitor. These visitors must wear a mask.
Tent Triage at UofL Health
Mary & Elizabeth launched its Emergency Department tent triage/assessment area on Friday, April 3. Using a number of tents in the ED ambulance bay, this area is designed to rapidly identify low-acuity and low-risk respiratory patients and discharge them before they ever get exposed to the environmental risk of being in the hospital.
The streamlined process is designed to protect emergency department staff by minimizing potential COVID-19 exposures. In addition to the assessments, the space has been configured to allow for some basic testing including portable chest x-rays, lab draws and EKGs. For those occasional patients who ultimately warrant admission, the process includes direct admission to the hospital from the tent area, bypassing the ED and again, limiting potential exposure between patients and staff.
Service will share important medical and family data with first responders
The Smart911 service enables you to go online and input important information for police, fire, and EMS first responders to have at the ready when you call them. You can also download a Smart911 app to your smartphone.
With the community facing a potential surge in COVID-19 cases, it’s now more important than ever for first responders to have what they need to help you
Smart911 stores vital information, such as:
- Your medical history
- Information about family members and pets
- Someone to notify if you live alone
- The name of a neighbor with a key or an entry code for your apartment building
Your Smart911 profile will be available for 911 operators and first responders, saving precious time in an emergency. When you download the app onto your smartphone, it also improves the phone’s GPS location data, which helps if you have an emergency outside your home.
Go to www.smart911.com to sign up.
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 Louisville Water Company has created a jingle and video that will help remind kids and adults of the proper way to wash hands. “Hand Washin Germ Stoppin’” features Tapper, Louisville Water’s mascot and a 20-second song that promotes the importance of soap, water, and a good scrub. Louisville Water’s product, Louisville pure tap® is essential for overall health and hand washing, but it’s especially critical in minimizing the spread of the Coronavirus.
To view the video click the link below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prS-Il9PQSw
LIBA has developed an online resource and is sharing recommendations to help the community keep their local businesses in mind as we stay safe.
- Visit www.KeepLouisvilleWeird.com for a listing of local, independent businesses. Special space on each listing is dedicated to information useful during COVID-19 precautions. Keep checking back as our members update their information regularly. The directory is also searchable by businesses that offer delivery, curbside pickup, online ordering, etc.
- Give the Gift of Business - Buy a gift card (on the phone or online) that would cover your usual spend over the coming weeks. Then spend the gift cards later, or give them as gifts to others.
- Buy Now, Pick Up Later - If you had planned on purchasing an item, give the business a call. Pay for it now and have them set it aside for later pickup.
- Keep Up Your Memberships - If you have a membership to a gym, class, studio, etc. keep it going. Many small businesses count on that constant support to keep their doors open so they can be there when you come back.
- Curbside Pickup/Delivery - For restaurants and for retail! Many of our local independents are offering this service.
LIBA is also offering resources to support local businesses themselves. We are offering webinars on working from home, tutorials on Facebook lives that retailers can use for commerce, etc.
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Due to the impacts COVID19 is likely to have on households across the country, Charter is announcing the following commitments to help ease the burden on families with students that need to work remotely:
- Charter will offer free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription at any service level up to 100 Mbps. To enroll call 1-844-488-8395. Installation fees will be waived for new student households.
- Charter will partner with school districts to ensure local communities are aware of these tools to help students learn remotely.
- Charter will open its Wi-Fi hotspots across our footprint for public use
- For eligible low-income households without school-aged children, Charter continues to offer Spectrum Internet Assist, a low-cost broadband program delivering speeds of 30 Mbps
- Spectrum does not have data caps or hidden fees.
In addition, Charter has accepted FCC Chairman Pai's "Keep Americans Connected" pledge, which for the next 60 days includes the following:
- Charter will not terminate service to any current residential or small business customers because of their inability to pay their bills due to the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic
- Charter will waive any late fees that any residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic
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Testing kits. Whether it’s someone going door-to-door offering a COVID-19 testing kit or someone selling them online, don’t fall for this con.
Miracle cures, vaccines, or supplements. When you see an advertisement promoting a miracle cure, vaccine, or supplement to help you fight the coronavirus, just ignore it.
Mask sales. While many people are on the hunt for medical-grade masks, scammers are posting fake websites.
Government checks. If you receive a phone call from a “government representative” saying they need your social security number, banking account number, or other personal information in order to give your relief check, hang up!
Errand assistance. Be wary of strangers who offer to run errands for you. While there are legitimate groups who are offering assistance to those that are in need, there are scammers who are looking to take your prescription medications or your money.
Free gift cards. Some businesses are providing discounts during this time, but if you see an offer for a free gift card, proceed with caution.
Charity and giving. If you are looking to donate, make sure you are donating to legitimate charities.
Tracking apps. With COVID-19 spreading rapidly, you may want to know if the virus has spread to your area.
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To avoid identity thieves, con artists and self-proclaimed experts, Kentuckians should:
- Watch out for products that claim to cure coronavirus or guarantee coronavirus prevention.
- Be wary of emails from con artists pretending to be the Centers for Disease Control or other public health organizations. A legitimate medical provider would never ask for sensitive information through email.
- Research organizations that are claiming to raise money for a coronavirus vaccine or to help victims.
- Consult the Kentucky Department for Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for reliable information and updates about the coronavirus. A COVID-19 hotline has also been established for health-related concerns and questions at 1-800-722-5725.
Report Scams to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257
Louisville Metro is asking all volunteers who are 60+ not to volunteer to ensure their safety. All 13 nonprofits that make up the Association of Community Ministries have historically relied on our retired friends for the packing and distribution of food. If you are young, healthy, and able to donate a few hours during this crisis, please let us know, and click here!
To view a full map of the Community Ministries who provide emergency assistance to neighbors in crisis, click here!
For more information about how you can help the elderly or any of the 13 Christian Ministries click on the following new sources below!
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Kentucky is delaying its May primary elections by more than a month, the latest in a series of crowd restrictions announced to try and limit the spread of coronavirus. Gov. Andy Beshear issued an executive order on Monday delaying the May 19 primaries until June 23.
“We don’t want people out there trying to create gatherings where the coronavirus can spread. And just think about the poll worker at your location,” Beshear said. Georgia and Louisiana have also delayed their primary elections. Ohio is moving to delay its primary, which takes place on Tuesday. Kentucky’s Republican Secretary of State Michael Adams recommended that Beshear, a Democrat, delay the election by the maximum 35 days.
https://wfpl.org/kentucky-delays-may-primary-election-by-more-than-a-month/
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   General Information
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The U.S. Census will help determine Louisville's future for the next 10 year — representation in government, the allocation of federal resources affecting communities and families, education funding, and much more.
Mayor Greg Fischer and the Louisville Municipal Complete Count Committee are working to help ensure a complete and proper count of all Louisville residents, and are seeking the community's help in getting out the word. The official Census 2020 date is April 1. Invitations to complete are arriving now and residents are encouraged to respond to the 2020 Census and be counted!
Where are people counted?
- Count people at their usual residence, which is the place where they live and sleep most of the time.
- People in certain types of group facilities on Census Day are counted at the group facility.
- People who do not have a usual residence, or who cannot determine a usual residence, are counted where they are on Census Day.
Support Information
Census Job Opportunities
As a reminder, another challenge we are facing is fulfilling jobs at the Census National Processing Center and Field Operations. Attached are our flyers that explain the job opportunities. Please keep sharing this information through your social media, websites, newsletters etc. More information is below:
- To apply at NPC go to USAJobs.gov Search keyword: PNC Location: Jeffersonville
- Field Operations apply at Census.gov/jobs Hiring process may take 30-60days.
If you wish to see other information in a different language click on the link below.
https://www.census.gov/library/fact-sheets.html
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As of Monday, February 24, 2020, the Waste Reduction Center will be closed for maintenance until further notice. |
 Due to the COVID-19 State of Emergency, the Department of Revenue Office of Property Valuation and the Finance and Administration Cabinet, in Frankfort, have issued an Executive Order that will delay the property tax calendar by 60 days.
In Compliance with KRS 133.045, Jefferson County PVA, Colleen Younger announces the 2020 Jefferson County Real Property Assessment Roll will officially open for public inspection July 6– July 20, 2020. Younger is increasing the conferencing time beyond the statutory 13 days to better accommodate the people of Jefferson County. The 2020 conference schedule will open at Noon on June 26, 2020 and run through close of business at 4:00 pm on July 20, 2020. This gives property owners who wish to appeal their property value an additional 10 days to complete the PVA conference.
The Jefferson County PVA is also modifying the 2020 property reassessment. The original quadriennial plan had MLS Areas 2, 3, and 7 scheduled for reassessment in 2020. The 2020 Reassessment will now encompass new construction, 2019 sales and improvement permits for improvement. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all areas previously scheduled for reassessment in 2020 have now been moved to 2021.
Any property owner who wishes to appeal their property assessment must first conference with the Jefferson County Property Valuation Administrator online at www.jeffersonpva.ky.gov. Property Owners who disagree with their property assessment must provide documentation to support their opinion of value.
Out of an abundance of caution all 2020 PVA Conferencing will now be done through our online tool on the PVA website www.jeffersonpva.ky.gov or by teleconference.
Appointments for teleconferences can be made by calling the PVA office at 502-574-6224.
The PVA premium service website, including the neighborhood sales research tool is available free of charge during the COVID-19 State of Emergency through the end of conferencing at www.jeffersonpva.ky.gov. The PVA premium service website is available free of charge year round at all Louisville Free Public Libraries and at our the PVA office.
AARP invites you to submit applications for the 2020 Community Challenge Grant which provides funding for quick-action projects that can help your community become more livable for people of all ages. Applications are now being accepted for small grants to improve housing, transportation, public space, smart cities, civic engagement, and more.
All of Kentucky’s previously funded projects can be found here.
This year’s application is due by April 1, 2020, 11:59 p.m. ET and all projects must be completed by November 9, 2020. Applications must be submitted through www.aarp.org/communitychallenge
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For details on the extension of your 2019 filing please click the following links below.
In accordance with guidance from Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness, the LMRC will no longer take walk-in appointments. Anyone with questions can contact LMRC staff at (502) 574-4860 or taxhelp@metrorevenue.org.
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At the advice of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, VITA has temporarily suspended operations. With the number of clients they see each day, the potential to transmit the coronavirus to taxpayers or volunteers is high, and the main priority is the health of our community.
As of now, VITA will tentatively plan to open back on Monday, April 6th, along with JCPS. If the current situation changes, this date may move up or be delayed further. The appointment system will not be accessible during this period. During this time, we encourage taxpayers to use the free, online filing options that are accessible on this website. They will also be working to increase their capacity to assist taxpayers in completing their own returns through additional resources and exploring alternative service delivery models to assist taxpayers. There may be remote volunteer opportunities to assist in these efforts, and we will keep you updated.
At this time, the IRS has not issued an official extension of the filing deadline, but it is possible that they may do so. We will be sure to update you regarding any changes to the tax code that may affect you during this time.
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