Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 01/29/2021 03:12 PM EST
COUNCILWOMAN DR. BARBARA SHANKLIN
(502) 574-1102 / 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202
Dr. Barbara Shanklin District 2 Councilwoman 601 West Jefferson Street City Hall, 1st Floor Louisville, KY 40202 (502) 574-1102 Barbara.Shanklin@louisvilleky.gov
Caleb Howard Legislative Assistant (502) 574-2787 Caleb.Howard@louisvilleky.gov
Newburg Library
***January Meeting Cancelled Due to COVID-19 pandemic***
On the third Tuesday of each month, a Community Meeting is held to give residents an opportunity to be informed, discuss ideas and share. Be part of the change we want to see for our community. Join us at 6:00PMwhen we meet with LMPD, and 6:30PM to share with Councilwoman Dr. Barbara Shanklin.
Louisville Metro Police Department 6th Division Questions? Contact Us
STAY CONNECTED:
CLICK HERE OR CALL 574-LMPD (5673) TO SUBMIT A CRIME TIP
Updated (01/29/2021): Important Information Regarding the Current COVID-19 Outbreak and the Commonwealth of Kentucky/the City of Louisville Response
Official Team Kentucky sources for information concerning COVID-19
COVID-19 Hotline (800) 722-5725
The COVID-19 hotline is a service operated by the healthcare professionals at the KY Poison Control Center who can provide advice and answer questions. Please be patient as we are handling a high volume of calls and want to give everyone the time they deserve. For general information, please review the website prior to calling the hotline. Guidance is being added as it becomes available.
Click here for to visit the official Team Kentucky source for information concerning COVID-19 (updated daily).
For general inquires, email KYcovid19@ky.gov. Please be patient as we handle a high volume of emails.
COVID-19: Louisville Information
Louisville Metro has a website with updated information about COVID-19, including information from Mayor Greg Fischer’s briefings about City services. You can access it here.
*PCR is test for COVID, Serology is antibodies test
**Based on a 7-day rolling average; Switched on 10/19/2020 to electronic laboratory reports as the sole source of data for the positivity rate. Learn more about how KDPH determines the Statewide Positivity Rate. Note: Data includes cases of COVID-19 reported to KDPH.
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 will allow us to worship together, reopen schools, and return to work in person. Choosing to be vaccinated helps you and your loved ones stay safe. It helps our community’s most vulnerable members to be protected against this pandemic and the social isolation that comes along with it.
COVID-19 is still spreading in our city. We are experiencing a record number of cases, and, unfortunately, deaths. Until most of us can be vaccinated, wearing a mask and keeping our distance and limiting where we go is still essential to protecting ourselves, our families, and our communities. Even as we celebrate the development of safe and effective vaccines, these safety measures - including staying home when you may be sick - remain crucial parts of our effort to eliminate this pandemic.
Please visit this link for answers to many frequently asked questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan and how soon (and where) you will be able to get your vaccination.
Important note from Dr. Sarah Moyer regarding COVID-19 vaccine distribution
We realize that most people have not gotten an appointment to be vaccinated yet and that this is very frustrating. We are excited that so many people want to be vaccinated and we wish there were enough doses to vaccinate everyone tomorrow. I assure you that no doses are being wasted in Jefferson County. We are currently in the early stages of phase 1b. The health department and healthcare systems are making appointments for every dose we get, but there is a very limited amount of vaccine available right now and we only know how many doses we will get a few days in advance. We have approximately 100,000 people aged 70 and over in Jefferson County and it will take months to get through the entire group before we can move to phase 1c.
To get answers to frequently asked questions and stay up to date on the latest news, what phase we are in, and how to make an appointment, please visit our vaccine website and sign up for news alerts.
Schools – All public and private schools (K -12) to cease in-person instruction:
Middle and high schools will remain in remote or virtual instruction until at least Jan. 4, 2021.
Elementary schools may reopen for in-person instruction Dec. 7 if their county is not in the red zone and the school follows all Healthy at School guidance.
GUIDANCE
KYCOVID19.KY.GOV This website is Kentucky's central resource for all COVID-19 information and guidance. The COVID-19 Hotline – (800) 722-5725 – is a service operated by the health care professionals at the KY Poison Control Center who can provide advice and answer questions. For general inquiries, please send an email to KyCovid19@ky.gov. KyCovid19.ky.gov also includes weekly White House Coronavirus Task Force reports for Kentucky.
RED ZONE RECOMMENDATIONS See red zone counties here. See red zone county recommendations here. See school guidance based on color-coded zone here.
TESTING The Governor said Kentuckians can find more than 350 testing locations here.
To register for surge testing in Louisville (Kentucky Exposition Center) or Lexington (Keeneland Racecourse), visit DoINeedACOVID19Test.com. Both locations are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
ASSISTANCE
UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE Go to KCC.ky.gov for more information and to file a claim. You can also call 1-502-875-0442 (File a Claim) or 1-877-369-5984 (Request a Payment). See other UI contact information (email and phone numbers) here.
KYNECT Website available in: Arabic (عربى); Bosnian (Bosanski); Chinese (中文); English (English); French (Français); Russian (русский); Somali (Somali); Spanish (Español); Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)
Visit kynect.ky.gov to apply for health insurance; benefit programs covering food assistance (SNAP), child care assistance, financial aid for children and caregivers (KTAP) and more; and to learn more about local help with food, transportation, housing, employment, finances, physical and mental health.
RESTAURANT AND BAR RELIEF To help offset the financial impact on restaurants and bars, the Governor is dedicating $40 million in CARES Act funding to provide qualifying restaurants and bars $10,000 in relief for various expenses, with a maximum award of $20,000 per business entity. Businesses with at least 50% of their sales via drive-through (during a normal year) will not be eligible. To focus on locally owned businesses, publicly traded companies are not eligible to apply.
Applications are scheduled to open Nov. 30 and close Dec. 18. Businesses will be required to remain in compliance with all public health orders. Applications will be processed in the order they are received, and funds will be awarded until they are exhausted.
Reimbursable expenses include items like: rent, employee salaries, health insurance costs, inventory and personal protective equipment. To check eligibility, or to apply, visit teamkyfbrf.ky.gov.
UTILITY RELIEF FUND
The Kentucky Public Service Commission ended its moratorium on disconnections for nonpayment for the utilities it regulates on Oct. 20. To ensure there were protections afterwards, the Governor signed an executive order that ended the statewide moratorium on disconnections for nonpayment on Nov. 6, but takes additional steps to help Kentuckians.
The executive order designates $15 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds for the Healthy at Home Utility Relief Fund. Eligible households can receive a one-time $500 benefit towards their water and or wastewater bills and $400 towards their natural gas or utility bills. Households who have an income up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Line and have been economically impacted due to COVID-19 can apply.
As of Dec. 1, the Governor said there is about $11 million remaining in the fund.
Interested households should contact their local Community Action Outreach Office on how to apply. To locate a local office, call 800-456-3452.
The order will also require utilities to create a payment plan for residential customers that runs no less than six months. It will continue to waive late fees on utility bills for residential customers through Dec. 31, 2020.
VACCINE UPDATE
To learn about the state’s first vaccine shipments, which could arrive as early as mid-December, click here and here.
Kentuckians should also visit KYCOVID19.ky.gov to view the latest information available on the vaccine, including:
The draft Kentucky vaccination plan, which includes a draft outline of our planning phases, critical populations and vaccine provider enrollment and administration.
Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville
Independent review of LMPD points out significant challenges and ‘clear roadmap’ to address them
Mayor says audit provides ‘unflinching’ look at what LMPD does well and areas for improvement to realize goal of being best police department in the nation
LOUISVILLE, KY (January 28, 2021) — An independent review of the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) outlines significant challenges, as well as “a clear roadmap” for addressing those challenges and realizing Mayor Greg Fischer’s goal for LMPD to be the best police department in the nation.
The city and LMPD “will need to overcome many challenges to establish the trust and collaboration necessary to ensure the LMPD’s policing services meet everyone’s goals and desires,” said Robert Davis, Senior Vice President for Hillard Heintze, the Chicago-based company hired in July to conduct the review. “We are confident that the will and leadership exist within the LMPD to make this happen.”
Mayor Fischer agreed: “We have committed to reimagining public safety, and that requires an unflinching, comprehensive look at what LMPD is doing well, and what can be done better. An independent audit like this is an extraordinarily valuable tool in making an organization better, and we plan to lean into the findings here – good and bad.”
The 150-page report notes that LMPD has been at the center of the national spotlight on police practices after the tragic death of Breonna Taylor and that many people of color don’t trust police officers “due to generations of problematic relations.” In addition, it says many LMPD officers are unsure they want to continue this career path. Davis said these are challenges that police departments across the country are facing, and his team is “confident” LMPD can overcome them.
“Our experience has shown us that even when facing significant operational difficulties and a critical need to rebuild community trust, agencies that embrace our recommendations succeed in building that trust and raising their level of professionalism in line with some of the most progressive police departments in the country,” Davis said. “With the leadership provided by Chief Erika Shields and others, we fully expect that in the next few years, policing agencies across the country will turn to the LMPD to learn how to make such positive operational changes.”
Working since late July, Hillard Heintze pored over data and statistics, conducted interviews and reviewed LMPD’s policies, procedures, protocols and training on the use of force, de-escalation, search and arrest warrants, crisis intervention, crowd control, community-oriented policing, bias-free policing and procedural justice.
The report noted several areas where LMPD is aligned with or leading on national best practices, including its de-escalation training and use-of-force continuum, which have led to a reduction in use-of-force incidents, as well as fewer injuries to residents and officers.
However, the report also found significant disparities in arrest numbers and areas of inconsistency in training and leadership. “These are areas that demand our attention,” Mayor Fischer said. “It can be difficult to face up to our failings, but that’s exactly what we have to do, if we want to improve and move forward,” he added, noting many substantive reform measures already underway:
Breonna’s Law, which bans no-knock warrants and mandates the use of body cameras for officers serving search warrants.
Creation of a civilian police review board and Office of Inspector General to add a new layer of independent review to Louisville Metro Police Department disciplinary matters, as well as work to change state law to bolster this new system with subpoena power.
Encouraging officers to volunteer in the neighborhoods they serve and establishing a housing credit program to incentivize officers to live within a Qualified Census Tract.
A commitment to establishing a system to have the best first responder on each call, whether it is a social worker or a police officer.
And, after a national search, hiring a new police chief, Erika Shields, “who has the skill and the commitment to act on these recommendations for reform.”
Shields said of the report: “It does us no good to try to sugarcoat it: We have challenges. We have work to do. And, we are going to do it, together.”
Since its inception in 2004, Hillard Heintze has helped dozens of public safety and law enforcement agencies at all levels of government and is among the nation’s leading public safety consulting firms. Among its high-profile work, Hillard Heintze helped drive the critical advancements in policing called for in the Final Report of the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing: Transparency, Accountability, and Better Community Engagement. The U.S. Department of Justice chose Hillard Heintze as the sole provider for the Community Oriented Policing Services Office Collaborative Reform Initiative for Technical Assistance — the largest U.S. program to advance police transformations and reform in cities and universities across the U.S.
Hillard Heintze was selected in collaboration with Metro Council President David James.
The Mayor praised Hillard Heintze for its work to engage the community in the review process, including a community survey that drew 7,805 responses, as well as a separate opportunity for residents to email Hillard Heintze with thoughts, concerns and suggestions. Hillard Heintze representatives also made several onsite visits, conducting interviews, observing training, and participating in ride-alongs with officers.
“Community involvement was key, because we believe public safety is something we co-produce,” the Mayor said, while pledging to share regular progress reports with the community to ensure transparency and accountability.
In closing, the Mayor noted that while the report shows serious challenges that must be addressed, “let’s keep in mind that LMPD employs about 1,100 police officers, sworn to serve and protect about 770,000 people. That’s more than 700 people for every one police officer. So, it’s clear that reimagining public safety does not stop with this report” or police reform alone.
“As a society, we too often ask police to address all of society’s problems – because we’ve failed to make necessary investments to address poverty, mental health, domestic violence, substance use and other challenges. And because we’ve failed to face up to the reality of structural racism, which keeps far too many of our neighbors from opportunity, from access, from hope,” the Mayor said. “So today, beyond the police reform I guarantee will happen, we must also commit to serious, intentional and cooperative action on those other challenges – those root causes of violence and inequity – as well.
“As I’ve said before: We face a choice today, and it’s not about Black vs. white, or demonstrators vs. police. It’s about the past vs. the future. One we can’t change, and one we will– by working together,” he said. “America’s eyes have been on Louisville for months now. So, let’s show the nation what we can do. Let’s come together and be that American city that takes itself from tragedy to transformation. Together.”
Mayor Fischer leads U.S. Conference of Mayors’ 89thAnnual Winter Meeting
Meeting focuses on issues critical to Louisville, including impact of global pandemic
LOUISVILLE, KY (January 22, 2021) – Mayor Greg Fischer yesterday joined hundreds of mayors from across the country to kick off the U.S. Conference of Mayors' (USCM) 89th Annual Winter Meeting. They engaged in conversation with Biden administration officials, heard from business and philanthropical leaders, and exchanged ideas and best practices.
As president of USCM, the Mayor delivered his President’s Report to mark the beginning of the three-day virtual convening, acknowledging the historic opportunities and challenges facing mayors and the work the USCM is doing to meet those head on.
“As president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Louisville has a seat at the table with our federal partners and business leaders to hear best practices that will help us achieve our city’s goals and tackle our biggest challenges,” said Mayor Fischer.
Day One of the meeting featured conversations on topics critical to Louisville, like affordable housing and homelessness, and fiscal relief from the economic downturn due to the COVID-19 global pandemic.Mayor Fischer and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms joined Ohio Rep. Marcia Fudge, President Biden’s nominee to serve as Secretary for the Department of Housing and Urban Development, for a discussion on housing policy under the new Biden administration.
“So many of the housing programs under the authority of HUD are key to the future of Louisville and to helping ensure that all people in our cities can experience the American dream,” said the Mayor.
Members of the USCM leadership – including Mayor Fischer, Nan Whaley of Dayton, and Jeff Williams of Arlington, TX – also spoke with key members of the Biden administration about the President’s “American Rescue Plan” to rebuild the nation’s economy. Among its many key provisions, President Biden’s plan includes $350 billion in direct fiscal assistance for cities, counties and states.
“President Biden understands how desperately we need flexible and direct fiscal assistance to fight the ongoing pandemic, close the resulting budget shortfalls, keep our front-line workers on the job, and spur community-based recovery,” said Mayor Fischer. “On behalf of the Conference, I want to say thank you to the Biden administration for understanding the urgency and for valuing the perspective and partnership of mayors.”
During today’s session on reducing gun violence (3:30 p.m. EST), mayors will be joined by Louisville’s own Anthony Smith, Executive Director of Cities United. The conversation will focus on actions mayors are taking and can take to address the recent uptick in gun violence that cities across America are experiencing. “Every homicide is a tragedy, and the recent increase in shootings and homicides is unacceptable,” said Mayor Fischer. “In Louisville, we are launching the Group Violence Intervention initiative, which is a community-driven effort that focuses on the groups at highest risk for being either victims or perpetrators of violence. I look forward to hearing from Anthony and other experts, along with mayors on their efforts to reduce crime and gun violence and make our city safer.”
Late today (4:30 p.m. EST), Mayor Fischer will join Dr. Vivek Murthy, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and Mayors Levar Stoney of Richmond, VA, and Bill de Blasio of New York City in a special session on COVID-19. “While there is light at the end of the tunnel, we are still very much seeing a surge in COVID cases locally, but thanks to the work of great scientists, we have vaccines and more hope than ever of eliminating this disease,” said Mayor Fischer.
The meeting continues Saturday with discussions on immigration issues, environmental priorities, an infrastructure session with Transportation Secretary-Designate Pete Buttigieg and a climate conversation with Special Envoy John Kerry and Climate Advisory Gina McCarthy.
Mayor Fischer’s President’s Report can be read in fullhere.
City announces opportunity to apply for funding for mid-year shelter bed expansion
Intent is to increase shelter capacity for subpopulations of persons experiencing homelessness
LOUISVILLE, KY (January 22, 2021) - On January 22, 2021, Louisville Metro Government (LMG) begins accepting applications from non-profit organizations that wish to partner with Metro Government to expand emergency shelter capacity for a specific subpopulation of persons/families experiencing homelessness.
The intent is to increase Louisville’s capacity to provide emergency housing that can be mindful to the specific needs of different populations of persons living without shelter. For example:
Spaces with hospital-style beds or other medical accommodations for persons with disabilities,
Spaces for youth who identify as LGBTQ+,
Beds reserved for persons with substance use disorders who recently left incarceration,
Other
The pilot program will have a $95,000 budget, designated for emergency shelter bed expansion.
Recently created street outreach programs in the community have helped LMG bring more structure to homelessness supports and interventions for many persons in encampments and other visible locations. However, not all people experiencing homelessness locally gather in encampments. A trend observed in recent studies conducted by the University of Louisville’s (U of L’s) report: “Solving Street Homelessness in Louisville, KY: Improving the Climate of Care for Indviduals Experiencing Homelessness” found that focus also needs to be given to how hard-to-reach populations may be targeted for support. The intent of this funding is to create low barrier spaces that are more appealing to as-yet hard to reach subpopulations.
Population Targets: (Shelter beds for persons/families with persons)
Who identify LGBTQ+
With physical disabilities or chronic illnesses
With serious/persistent mental illness
Who meet the HUD definition of chronic homelessness
Who are age 18 or younger
With a substance use disorder
Diagnosed with HIV/AIDS
Recently released from incarceration
Escaping domestic violence
Other subpopulation of persons experiencing homelessness
Applications will be accepted via SurveyMonkey beginning January 22, 2021 and the window for consideration will close on February 8, 2021 by 5 p.m.
There was a one-hour virtual public information session held on January 27, 2021 that addressed questions related to the funding.
The deadline to apply is February 8, 2021 by 5 p.m.
For questions, it is recommended to first consult the application guide. If further guidance is needed, send questions by email to MetroCompliance@louisvilleky.gov.
City announces opportunity to apply for the External Agency Fund Competitive Grants
Grants available to social services and arts and creative industry organizations
LOUISVILLE, KY (January 8, 2021) - Louisville Metro Government will begin accepting External Agency Fund applications on Jan. 15, 2021 for fiscal year 2022 (July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022). These grants, funded through the city’s General Fund, are awarded to non-governmental or "external” agencies that contribute to the city's cultural, social and economic vitality.A summary of the application process is as follows with more details listed below:
All agencies wishing to apply should have at least one representative attend the virtual application orientation on Thursday, Jan. 14, via WebEx from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The orientation will provide information about deadlines, how to access the application and other general information.
Following the orientation, the city will begin accepting applications. The deadline to apply is Thursday, Feb. 4, by 5 p.m.
The External Agency Funds (EAF) are awarded annually to nonprofit organizations offering programs or services in Louisville/Jefferson County that align with the Mayor's strategic goals. The competitive grants are available for Social Services programs, administered by the Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services, and for Arts and Creative Industries programs, administered by Louisville Forward.
For the Social Services funding program, qualified nonprofits committed to providing services that achieve meaningful outcomes for Louisville citizens in the following key areas are encouraged to apply:
Decreasing homelessness;
Increasing household financial stability;
Increasing youth, teen, and/or young adult engagement in quality programming; and/or
Increasing access to services and resources for a targeted population.
For the Arts and Creative Industries funding program, qualified nonprofits committed to providing programs that achieve meaningful outcomes for Louisville citizens in the following focus areas are encouraged to apply:
Arts experiences for everyone;
Creative workforce; and/or
Creative community spaces and neighborhoods.
Applications will be reviewed by separate External Agency Fund panels, which include Metro Council members and community members, and those recommendations will be included in Mayor Greg Fischer’s recommended fiscal year 2022 budget.
Louisville Metro Government employs a competitive granting strategy and strives to award funding to agencies that demonstrate measurable positive impact in the community and are good stewards of taxpayer dollars. Successful grantees will be required to report on their success in meeting goals, outcomes and how the taxpayer dollars are spent.
The deadline to apply is Thursday, Feb. 4 by 5 p.m.
City launches $10 million COVID-19 Utility Relief Program
Eligible residents can apply for LG&E, Water and MSD bill assistance today
LOUISVILLE, KY (January 25, 2021) – Today Mayor Greg Fischer joined Louisville Metro Council members and utility partners in announcing the start of the city’s $10 million COVID-19 utility assistance program, designed to help residents who have fallen behind on LG&E, Louisville Water and Louisville MSD bills as a result of COVID-19.
The Metro COVID-19 Utility Relief Funds are designed for residents with an active LG&E, Louisville Water Company/MSD account with a past due amount. The outstanding balance must have occurred between March 16, 2020 through December 31, 2020. Customers will need to attest that they have had a financial hardship during the pandemic.
Customers with outstanding balances on their utility bills could receive a one-time credit for up to $500 each on LG&E and Water/MSD bills.
Funding for the utility relief program comes from Louisville Metro Government general fund dollars freed up by federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, & Economic Security) Act) funding in other areas. The funds will be distributed by the city’s Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) under agreements with the utilities and the utilities’ foundations and administrative support from the Association of Community Ministries and Neighborhood Place.
“We know financial hardships related to COVID-19,whether that be job loss or reduction in hours, have created a high demand for utility assistance,” said Mayor Fischer. “The Metro COVID-19 Utility Relief Program represents a new partnership with Louisville Water Co., MSD, LG&E, and the utilities’ foundations, working together to help people get back on track in paying their utility bills. I am also grateful for Metro Council for approving this funding to help the residents of Louisville overcome this financial burden.”
To demonstrate the level of need LG&E had nearly 28,000 residential customers in arrears. And there are 15,000 residential customers in Jefferson County who are behind on their Louisville Water/MSD bill.
The application process is as follows:
Metro COVID-19 Relief LG&E Assistance:
Contact one of the following:
1) Call your local Community Ministry at www.louisvilleministries.org or call Metro United Way's 2-1-1 to locate the ministry nearest you, or
2) Schedule an appointment in advance with Neighborhood Place by calling 502-977-6636 or visit online at LGEHelp.itfrontdesk.com
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 (arrearage must have occurred March 16 – December 31, 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 (check Community Ministry and Neighborhood Place for specifics):
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. (Arrearage must have occurred between March 16 through December 31, 2020).
When applying via Neighborhood Place, the LG&E Utility Assistance Application form can be downloadedhere or found at Neighborhood Place office drop boxes that include the income documentation form.
Metro COVID-19 Relief Louisville Water Company/MSD Assistance:
Customers without computer access can visit local Community Ministries, make an appointment with the Louisville Free Public Library or visit Louisville Water at 550 South Third Street.
Eligibility:
Have a residential account in Jefferson County
Have a past-due balance sometime between March 16, 2020 – December 31, 2020
Identify a COVID-19 based financial hardship
Residents can apply for both LG&E and Water/MSD bill assistance.
This Metro COVID-19 Utility Relief Funds will operate from January 25 until funding is depleted. Funding is limited and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
“These new utility relief funds continue Metro’s commitment to public health and safety, helping residents who have been hit hardest to recover from the financial impacts of the pandemic, said Councilman Bill Hollander, District 9. “Assisting families in need has been a priority for Metro Council since last March. There is much more to do but utility assistance is critical, and Metro Council enthusiastically supported these new programs.”
The federally funded LIHEAP Crisis Program is also currently operating, providing heating assistance for qualified residents who meet one of these criteria: are facing disconnection, or past due amount, or who are facing eviction if their utilities are included in their rent, or who are in danger of funning out of heating fuel such as kerosene or propane.
LIHEAP, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, is also administered through the Office of Resilience and Community Services. Check here for eligibility and how to apply.
Councilwoman Shanklin continues drive thru COVID-19 testing for the people of District 2
Testing offered on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month
LOUISVILLE, KY – Councilwoman Barbara Shanklin (D-2) announces a new drive thru COVID-19 testing site will be available to the people of District 2 beginning on Monday, September 28th.
“It is important to make testing for COVID-19 available in as many places around the city as we can,” says Councilwoman Shanklin. “I hope the people of District 2 will take advantage of what is being offered. It’s convenient, easy to drive thru, and no appointment is necessary.”
The medical team administering the tests has been approved by Louisville Metro Government. This COVID-19 drive thru testing location is in partnership with Councilwoman Shanklin and the Newburg Church of Christ.
The COVID-19 testing is available on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. at 4700 East Indian Trail on the corner of Unseld Blvd. and East Indian Trail in the church’s parking lot.
Louisville Metro's Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods offers resources to residents affected by the COVID-19 pandemic
As cities across the country anticipate an unprecedented wave of evictions, we want to be sure to share some important resources available to Louisville renters, small-business owners and everyone affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides the establishment of vital resources for Louisville residents, we are pleased to see the groundwork for innovative solutions such as the establishment of a Community Land Trust as well as review of the Land Development Code. These measures will help ensure equitable housing solutions moving forward. Finally, we want to ensure citizens are aware of the resources available to them, so be sure to share the below resources with friends, family, and neighbors in need.
Funds are available to households making up to 80% of Area Median Income limits. Please see the above chart for qualifications. Anyone with a pending court eviction or a past due notice from their landlord is encouraged to apply.
In an effort to preserve the countless unique small businesses across Louisville Metro, the Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grants Program is available. Eligible businesses who can demonstrate need can qualify for up to $50,000 in assistance.
Up to $1,000 in funds are available for households, with a demonstrated need, that have lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications and supplemental documentation can be completed online. Funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Eligible applicants can receive a 10% reduction on MSD charges through July 31, 2021. Discount applies to MSD wastewater service charges, wastewater volume charges and consent decree surcharges. Total household income must be at or below 150% of the poverty line and with supporting documentation
The Louisville water company has not suspended water service for late payments since the onset of the pandemic. However, with over 12,000 late accounts, Louisville water Company has implemented Drops of Kindness, a catered payment solution that takes into account customer hardships as well as pairs them with community resources that can provide assistance. To learn more, click on the above link. Call 502.583.6610 to get started with a customer care representative.
Visit the Kentuckiana Job Board, which is updated weekly, to find a wide range of opportunities.
City's HUD Grant Applications Being Accepted
CDBG, ESG and HOPWA grants included
LOUISVILLE, KY (January 11, 2021) - On January 13, 2021, Louisville Metro Government (LMG) will begin accepting applications from local non-profit organizations for programs or activities seeking funding as sub-recipients to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grants listed below for LMG fiscal year 2022 (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022).
HUD-Funded Grants:
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG),
Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), and
Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA).
As in FY21, RCS seeks to continue to improve upon implementations of recommendations from the 2019 University of Louisville Study: Solving Street Homelessness in Louisville, KY: Improving the Climate of Care for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness. The study may be downloaded here.
RCS will accept applications for FY22 based on service categories. Below is a list of the categories RCS is seeking to fund. Service category amounts are projections. Category amounts may change after HUD allocates funding, in consultation with the Louisville Homelessness Continuum of Care (CoC).
The application link will be available on SurveyMonkey beginning Wednesday, January 13, 2021, 5 p.m. To access the application link, click here.
The Application Guidelines may be downloaded here, beginning Wednesday. January 13, 2021, 5 p.m.
There will be a virtual, mandatory orientation via Webex Friday, January 15, 10 -11:30 a.m. Please register for the Webex event: https://tinyurl.com/FY22HUDNOFAOrientation
A final public virtual meeting for questions will be held Monday, February 8, 10 -11:30 a.m. Please email Nancy Griffin (nancy.griffin@louisvilleky.gov ) if you’d like to attend the final public virtual meeting.
The deadline to submit an application is Friday, February 12, 2021 by 5:00 p.m. No late submissions will be accepted.
Tips:
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Code of Federal Regulations for the HUD grant that funds the category(ies) for which they apply. If awarded funding, applicants will be expected to meet all relevant regulations. Including, but not limited to: 2 CFR §200, which applies to CDBG, HOPWA, & ESG24 CFR §570 for federal CDBG regulations 24 CFR §576 for federal ESG regulations 24 CFR §574 for federal HOPWA regulations
Applications are submitted using SurveyMonkey. SurveyMonkey will NOT save partial responses. Applicants CANNOT return to incomplete applications if they exit before completing the entire application. Therefore, applicants are STRONGLY advised to draft responses in a separate program (i.e. Word) then copy/paste each answer into the SurveyMonkey application. If you exit the application before you have completed it, you will need start a new application.
This grant funding initiative is a competitive process. Applications will initially be reviewed by an external panel. Recommendations will then be presented to the Louisville Metro Council for approval. Recommendations will be made for inclusion in the FY22 Louisville Metro budget.
Any applicants representing persons of low and moderate incomes may request technical assistance from Louisville Metro to help resolve issues in their preparation of an application for funding. Applicants seeking technical assistance are asked to either send a message to Metrocompliance@louisvilleky.gov, or call Nancy Griffin at 502.574.5777.
Please submit all questions in writing to Nancy Griffin, Grants Contract Coordinator, Office of Resilience and Community Services, (502) 574.5777, nancy.griffin@louisvilleky.gov.
Circuit Court Clerk notes changes in Driver's Licensing operation
Driver’s Licenses
At this time, these five Driver’s License branches are now open and operating Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.:
Middletown (11700 Main St., 40243)
Outer Loop-Highview (7509 Outer Loop, 40228)
Southwest (4919 Dixie Highway, Suite A, 40216)
West Louisville (2900 W. Broadway, 40211)
Bowman Field (3501 Roger E. Schupp, 40205)
Please note:
Social distancing will be required.
Mask or face covering will be required.
At our high-volume branches, a reservation system may be utilized.
From 8 to 9 a.m. each day at each branch, Seniors and those with health issues will be served first (reservations not needed)
We highly recommend taking advantage of the Mail-in Renewal Option if you meet the applicable criteria. For details and the form, click here --https://www.drivejefferson.com/mail-in-renewal/
(Our sixth branch, at 514 West Liberty, is closed to the public due to COVID-19 and is only processing main-in renewals at this time.)
October 29, 2020 – Jefferson County Public Schools’ (JCPS) meal sites will undergo several scheduling changes in November in observance of holidays:
The new evening pick-up time is 3 - 5 p.m. instead of 4 - 6 p.m. at the eight sites currently offering evening meal distribution:
Butler Traditional High School
Carrithers Middle School
Eastern High School
Greathouse Shryock Traditional Elementary School
Male High School
Seneca High School
Valley High School
Westport Middle School
Roosevelt-Perry Elementary School will resumed evening pick up on Tuesday, Nov. 10.
Farnsley Elementary School will no longer offer evening meals.
Click here for a list of schools distributing meals from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday.
Update on In-School Instruction
JCPS wants to assure families that a plan is in place to safely reopen our schools when the data supports that decision. When they see a significant reduction in the number of cases, they will consult local and state health officials and make a determination about when they can safely return to in-person instruction. Students in middle and high schools will alternate between classroom and virtual learning once in-person instruction resumes at Jefferson County Public Schools, and those who refuse to follow COVID-19 guidelines could face disciplinary action. The updated planning document is available on JCPS website.
Only service requests for the past 30 days will be accessible in the new system. If you need information on an older request, please call Metro 311 for status.
Anything submitted in the old reporting system (prior to June 19, 2019) will not show in the new system. It is still being processed however. Please call Metro311 for status.
To receive email notifications of the status of your service request you must have an account and you must have included your email address when you created your account. You can create a new account and report a new issue with Metro 311 by following this link.
Not all issues you put a service request in for require you to login. Some issues may be submitted anonymously, such as reporting a pothole and property maintenance cases, for instance. But having an account will allow you to track the progress and status of the request.
If you do not see a category which corresponds to your issue, please call Metro 311 at 311.
Waste Management News
The Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue is open. This is a popular disposal site for large loads of unbagged yard waste, tree limbs and stumps up to three feet in diameter, construction debris, and large household items. (Fees may apply.) Residents can dispose of up to four tires, up to three electronic items, and up to three large household items for FREE! Details can be found on the website. Open Tuesday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Batteries, light bulbs, oil-based paint, varnishes, stains, and other household hazardous waste (take to Haz Bin)
Tree trunks
Boats, hot tubs
Items from businesses
Trailers greater than 10 feet in length (larger loads can be taken to the Waste Reduction Center)
COVID-19 Policies: Staff will wear personal protective equipment, including face coverings, and will stay at least 6 feet away from citizens. Citizens should remain in their vehicle if possible and must wear a face covering if exiting their vehicle.
Help your Community and Report Potholes
One of the things we missed last Spring was the annual Pothole Blitz. But Louisville Metro fills potholes in streets and alleys every day and we need your help to report them.
If you see a streetlight out in your neighborhood (or anywhere in Louisville), please note the address and report it to LG&E for repair. Click here to fill out the online form to report broken or malfunctioning streetlights. We always recommend adding your contact information to the request, so a technician who has questions can contact you. LG&E makes repairs during the day. Make sure you follow up if the streetlight hasn’t been repaired within seven (7) days.
LMPD News
LMPD reminder: Please secure your property!
A reminder to lock your vehicle, and never leave valuables in plain sight. This includes any and all keys, key fobs and firearms.
Police report that some drivers are making it easy for thieves by leaving their vehicle running. Please secure your property.
LMPD suggests making a 9 p.m. routine, as seen below.
Remove valuables from your vehicle.
Lock your car.
Secure your weapons.
Close your garage.
Lock your doors and windows.
Remember to report any suspicious behavior to LMPD’s non-emergency line at 574-7111. To speak to a call taker, press 5.
Louisville Parks and Recreation News
JMF Valentine's Day Hike
Give your sweetie the moon, the stars, and a romantic treat by a warm bonfire!
This year’s valentine’s day hike will include two options: a candlelit hike ending with hot chocolate for you and your partner or a candle lit hike leading to a private bonfire with a table for two and a s'mores kit (welcome to bring your own picnic dinner). Meet in the Horine Reservation main parking lot.
Pre-registration required. Start times vary, space limited. To register, click here or call (502) 368-5404.
Golf passes are now on sale for the 2021 season! You can purchase them by appointment only by calling the Joe Creason Park golf office at (502) 574-7275 or by clicking here. Reminder, courses are currently open and operating with COVID-19 protocols during the winter. And it's never too early to start thinking ahead to the spring!
Lifeguards Needed for Summer 2021
Louisville Parks and Recreation is seeking lifeguards for the 2021 swim season! The next training session begins Feb. 7 at the Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center. It's the perfect summer job for a college student home for the summer or a high school student looking for some work experience. And for those who work at one of our outdoor pools, training sessions are FREE! For more information, please click here.
Get Involved and volunteer!
Ready to get started as a volunteer? Join us for a one on one virtual orientation.
Learn what volunteers do, ask questions, and find out how to get involved!
Serving households in the 40213, 40218 & 40219 Zip Codes Only
First Come, First Served Basis
Picture ID & proof of residency required!
Sponsored By:
Peace Presbyterian Church
4210 East Indian Trail
Louisville, KY 40213
Upcoming Events at Newburg Library!
----------------------------------
----------------------------------
We are pleased to announce that the Newburg, St. Matthews, and Shawnee libraries are now open for in-person public computer use by appointment. These three locations join the Main Library and Northeast, South Central, and Southwest regionals in offering in-person computer use and limited free printing and faxing services by appointment. Computer access islimited to one 90 minute session per day. To make an appointment, patrons should call their preferred participating location at the numbers listed below.
Main: (502) 574-1616
Newburg: (502) 479-6160
Northeast: (502) 574-1751
St. Matthews: (502) 574-1772
Shawnee: (502) 574-1722
Southwest: (502) 933-0029
South Central: (502) 964-3515
In order to reopen safely to in-person visits, library spaces and computer stations have been reconfigured to ensure safe physical distancing can be maintained. Enhanced cleaning protocols have been implemented and masks and temperature checks are required to enter library facilities. The Library will have masks available for patrons who arrive without them. The browsing of books and other materials is also not permitted at this time.
More information on computers by appointment can be found at LFPL.org/appointment.
New interactive map makes legal Short Term Rentals easy to find
Short term rental enforcement continues in large part to be complaint-driven, based on public reporting of alleged violations to administrators.
Now, there is a new tool available to help. This interactive map contains all of the registered short term rentals in Louisville having an active permit to rent their property out to paying customers on STR websites like Airbnb.
In the map sample at upper left, light blue represents properties with active registrations. Green indicates properties with active registrations and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), which is required to rent the property if it is not the owner's primary residence.
If you believe someone is using a property as a short term rental but it does not show up on this registry, or if the registry indicates a non-owner occupied property does not have a CUP, then please report the issue here (select “Zoning and Business Concerns,” “Zoning Concern,” “Short Term Rental,” complete the form and submit). Or contact our office.
Report a Litterer!
Get directly involved in making Louisville a more litter-free community through the Report-A-Litterer program aimed at motorists who throw fast-food wrappers, cigarette butts, soda bottles, or any type of litter out of their car window.
Louisville non-profits have launched a new website to help connect people in need of food, shelter, and more. Metro United Way and the Family Scholar House partnered to create LouieConnect, modeling it on a similar site created in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. When someone uses LouieConnect, the web-based app asks for basic information and then lists applicable resources nearby — from food pantries to shelters to career centers to financial literacy programs.
***Important Metro Services Phone Numbers***
Air Pollution: (502) 574-6000
Animal Services: (502) 363-6609 or (502) 361-1318
Brightside: (502) 574-2613
Community Services & Revitalization: (502) 574-4377
Congressman John Yarmuth: (502) 582-5129
IPL (Code Enforcement): (502) 574-3321
Legal Aid Society: (502) 584-1254
LG&E Business: (502) 627-3313 or (800)- 331-7370
LG&E Residential: (502) 589-1444 or (800) 331-7370
LMPD 6th Division: (502) 574-2187
LMPD Anonymous Tipline: (502) 574-LMPD (5673)
LMPD: (Non Emergency): (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-2111
