District 14 eNews - August 3, 2023

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District 14 Councilwoman

and

Vice Chair of Democratic Caucus

Contact Cindi Fowler



Legislative Assistant

Contact Cindy Thieneman



Staff Helper

Amy Stewart


Office Locations:

CityHall
601 West Jefferson St.
Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 574-1114

 

Southwest Government Center
7219 Dixie Highway
Louisville, KY 40258
(502) 574-7988



2023 Committees:

Chair of Government Oversight/Audit and Appointments

Parks & Sustainability

Budget & Appropriations


 

Visit Councilwoman Fowler's website 

 


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In This Edition...


Fun Fact....This Day in History

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On August 3, 1492, Christopher Columbus set out on his first voyage to what came to be known as the New World. With three ships and a crew of ninety, Columbus hoped to find a western route to the Far East. Instead, the Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria landed in the Bahama Islands.


PACT Act - Veterans Services

There’s no deadline to apply for PACT Act benefits. But if you file your PACT Act claim—or quickly submit your intent to file by August 9, 2023, you may receive benefits backdated to August 10, 2022.

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Last August, Congress passed the Honoring our PACT Act, which finally drew an association in law between burn pit exposure among veterans and certain ailments, including many cancers. August 10, 2023 marks the one-year anniversary of the bill being signed into law by President Biden.

This law makes nearly 3.5 million veterans eligible right now for the care and benefits they have earned, instead of forcing them to go through an onerous process of proving that their illness was related to their service.

Since President Biden signed the PACT Act into law, VA has delivered more than $1.4 billion dollars in PACT Act benefits to veterans. Additionally, more than 665,000 veterans have applied for PACT Act-related benefits, more than 3.9 million veterans have received new toxic exposure screenings, and more than 287,000 veterans have enrolled in VA health care.

What is the PACT Act?

  • The PACT Act adds new presumptive conditions for radiation, Agent Orange, Gulf War toxins, and burn pit exposures.
  • Eligibility to file claims related to the PACT Act expansion of benefits and relief associated with being granted those benefits went into effect immediately upon President Biden's signing it into law. 
  • Eligible veterans are encouraged to submit claims as soon as possibleFull eligibility information can be found at: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-andyour-vabenefits/
  • The new classification of 23 conditions as presumptive will decrease the paperwork and processing associated with these claims and will hasten the granting of relief. Veterans can file a new claim online at: https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction
  • Veterans who were previously denied a claim that is now a presumptive condition can file a supplemental claim at: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/supplemental-claim/
  • If a veteran previously submitted a claim for a condition now considered presumptive and the claim is still pending a decision, no action needs to be taken by the veteran, the review will proceed in accordance with the new eligibility.
  • Claims processing related to PACT Act benefits began in January 2023 and new mechanisms and resources for processing also granted under the PACT Act have increased processing times.
  • PACT Act-related claims that have been submitted by August 9, 2023 will be backdated to the date of the bill signing, meaning claims granted will be paid with an effective date of August 10, 2022.
  • Information on VSOs and other resources available to guide veterans through the general claims process can be found at: https://www.va.gov/disability/get-help-filing-claim/

PACT Act Expansion of VA Healthcare

  • Expands the period of time that post-9/11 veterans have to enroll in VA healthcare from 5 to 10 years for veterans discharged or released after October 1, 2013
  • Creates a one-year open enrollment period for veterans who already fall outside of the 10-year expanded window (defined as veterans discharged or released before October 1, 2023) from October 1, 2022, to October 2023
  • Authorizes 31 new VA medical and research centers in 19 states including Kentucky

If you need further information or assistance identifying resources available to you, please don't hesitate to reach out to Congressman Morgan McGarvey's office at (502) 582-5129 — He has dedicated casework staff focused on issues affecting Louisville veterans who are more than happy to assist you.


Councilwoman Fowler Celebrating LMPD's National Night Out On Tuesday

A special thank you to Louisville's men and women in Blue for a spectacular community event.  We appreciate your dedication and service to our city.

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Road Construction, Expect Delays

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Note: the schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather and/or operational factors.

Signs are up and Hall Contracting starting roadway reconstruction on Trade Port Drive from Cane Run Rd. to Johnsontown Rd, Johnsontown Rd. from Cane Run Rd. to the bridge over Black Pond Creek, Freeport Ct. from Trade Port Dr. to dead end, Freeport Dr. from Trade Port Dr. to the dead end, and Transport Ct. from Freeport Dr. to the dead end. 

This work is expected to take a couple of months to complete. Traffic control and phasing plans are being prepared by our contractor and will be forwarded on once received and reviewed.  Variable message boards will be installed soon with notification of the work coming next week. 


54th Annual Street Rod Nationals

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National Street Rods Association is excited to host their 54th Annual Street Rod Nationals in Louisville Kentucky. The event will be hosted at the Kentucky Exposition Center August 3-6, 2023. Vehicles that are from the year 1991 or older will be allowed to be showcased at this event.


ENROLLMENT FOR LIHEAP SUMMER SUBSIDY TO OPEN JULY 25

Automated appointment line now open to schedule appointments in advance

Louisville, KY. The Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services joins with Community Action Agencies across the state to begin accepting applications for the 2023 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Summer Subsidy Cooling Component and the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). These federally-funded programs are designed to help offset the cost of higher utility bills. Applications will be accepted beginning July 25, 2023, through Sept. 22, 2023, or until funds are depleted.

Applicants for the LIHEAP Summer Subsidy and LIHWAP program must be residents of Jefferson County with a household income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines (e.g. for a household of four, the gross monthly income cannot exceed $3,750).

The LIHEAP Summer Subsidy component provides households a one-time benefit ranging from $50 to $250 depending on income levels and housing category. Residents can apply regardless of the status of their utility bills. The benefit amount is paid directly to the electric vendor (i.e. LG&E).

The LIHWAP program also provides a one-time benefit ranging from $50 to $100 depending on income levels.

“The LIHEAP and LIHWAP programs are crucial to so many of our neighbors,” said Office of Resilience and Community Services Interim Director Laura Grabowski. “Our office is proud to administer these vital programs, which will help hundreds of people stay cool in the summer heat.”

Jefferson County residents wishing to apply must schedule an appointment utilizing the automated appointment system. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling 502-991-8391 or online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com. The toll-free service is currently open and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Required documentation includes:

  • Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
  • Proof of all household’s (all members) income from the preceding month. (Ex. Food Stamp award letter, Social Security Award Letter, pay stubs, etc. or other proof of $0 income). Note: Zero Income forms are available at the LIHEAP locations or online at www.louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP
  • Most current electric bill, water/wastewater bill, or statement from your landlord if electric and/or water/wastewater is included in your rent, or statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program. The account number and name on the electric bill must also be provided.

There are seven LIHEAP locations for the 2023 LIHEAP Summer Subsidy program

  • South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave., 40215
  • Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Ave., 40211
  • Bridges of Hope Neighborhood Place,1411 Algonquin Pkwy., 40210
  • Newburg Community Center, 4810 Exeter Ave., 40218
  • Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 3410 Lees Lane, 40216
  • Northwest Neighborhood Place, 4018 W. Market St., 40212
  • Charmoli Neighborhood Place, 9100 Marksfield Rd., Ste. 100, 40222

For more descriptions about LIHEAP income eligibility and other instructions, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP. Residents may also call the automated LIHEAP information line at 502/991-8391 or visit www.louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.

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

Resilience and Community Services (RCS) serves as the administering agency of the Louisville Metro Community Action Agency. Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  For more information about RCS, visit our website: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services


TARC Route Updates

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Sunday, August 6 is the first day for a set of service changes intended to improve overall system efficiency and adjust service to areas where it is most needed.  These changes include enhanced service in parts of the TARC service area and the elimination of several extremely low ridership express trips that currently only run during the morning and afternoon commute. Learn more about these changes on their website.


Concert Coming to Riverside

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Free Louisville Bats Tickets - Community Nights

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Wednesday, August 23

and

Wednesday, September 6

The Louisville Bats are once again offering "Community Night" tickets to local Louisville non-profits organizations to attend the Bats games scheduled for Wednesday, August 23rd at 6:35pm or Wednesday, September 6th at 6:35pm

Use the following link to request tickets: Louisville Bats Community Night Ticket Request

Questions please contact Hana at: hibrahim@batsbaseball.com


Free Parenting Online Workshops

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Free Shoes for Children Going Back to School

For a list of JCPS Family Resource and Youth Service Centers, click this link https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/student-support/frysc/list

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Louisville Zoo Wildlife Photography Classes with Murphy’s Camera Back by Popular Demand

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The Louisville Zoo is happy to announce the return of its popular Wildlife Photography Basics class on August 12 and September 9.  The one-day course is presented in partnership with Murphy’s Camera.

Participants will learn the building blocks of great Zoo wildlife photography. Zoo staff will lend their expert advice on what animal behaviors to look for as well as the best times and seasons to photograph different species.  Murphy’s Camera experts will advise on the basics of framing a shot and practical methods for taking advantage of available light.

The class meets from 9 to 11 a.m. and is designed for teens and adults eager to learn the basics of wildlife photography. For the August 12 class participants will take a photo walk through the South America area with views of puma, bald eagle, lynx, maned wolf, flamingos, sloth, hyacinth macaws or toucan (depends on rotational schedule) and jaguar.  The September 9 class features the Islands area with views of the little penguins, dalmatian pelicans, Aldabra tortoises, and rotational islands mammals which could include Sumatran tiger, orangutans, babirusa, tapir and siamangs.

Registration for both classes is open now for $60 for non-members and $40 for members and includes all-day Zoo admission. Visit louisvillezoo.org/photography for more details and to register.

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Spring / summer hours are 10 a.m. ─ 5 p.m. (enjoy the Zoo until 6 p.m.). The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more info.


Stepping Stones at Valley View on September 7th

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Music In the Park For Seniors, August 17th at Riverside

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Louisville Parks and Recreation and JenCare Senior Medical Center are again partnering to host the third annual Music in the Park, a free concert series designed for people ages 55 and older, located in parks around the city of Louisville. Music in the Park will take place on the third Thursdays in July through October 2023. Those attending the concerts should bring a lawn chair or blanket, as seating is limited. The following list includes the lineup of talented artists to perform, along with the park each concert will take place:

    • The CheckMates, Thursday, August 17, 11 a.m., Riverside, the Farnsley-Moremen Landing, backup location, Sun Valley Community Center
    • Paulette Johnson & The VillEffect Band, Thursday, September 21, 11 a.m., Petersburg Park, backup location, Newburg Community Center
    • The CheckMates, Thursday, October 19, 11 a.m., Iroquois Park, backup location, South Louisville Community Center 

Along with live music, several community vendors will be set up at the event to provide valuable health related information to patrons. Complimentary lunch will be provided while supplies last. Free ice cream from Brain Freeze: Cones for a Cause will also be served.

Music in the Park will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on each date listed. In the instance of extreme heat or rain, the nearby indoor location listed will be used as the venue. You can find the latest updates and information about Music in the Park by  following Louisville Parks and Recreation on social media. The public can also call Wilderness Road Senior Center at (502) 964-5151 for more information! We hope to see you there! 


Free Movies at Iroquois Park

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Iroquois Amphitheater's 85th Anniversary

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Help Children of Military Families

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Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus in Jefferson County

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The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) has found additional mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus in surveillance traps in seven more ZIP codes: 40203, 40206, 40208, 40211, 40212, 40213 and 40217. To help prevent infection and reduce the mosquito population, mosquito fogging will take place later today, weather permitting, in the areas of Portland, Irish Hills, Audubon Park and Churchill Downs. Early next week, fogging operations will continue in the Riverpark, Merriweather and Shelby Park communities. 

Fogging occurs in the early morning or early evening hours. The Department of Public Health and Wellness uses an ultra-low volume fogging machine that disperses an insecticide that is very low in toxicity and odor. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Kentucky Department of Agriculture recognize the product as safe to use without posing unreasonable risks to human health.

Though West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes this year, so far, no human cases have been reported in Jefferson County.

“No matter what ZIP code you live in, we encourage you to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes,” said Louisville’s Interim Chief Health Strategist Connie Mendel.

Avoid mosquito bites

  • Use insect repellents when you go outdoors. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products provide longer-lasting protection. To optimize safety and effectiveness, repellents should be used according to the label instructions. More information about insect repellents can be found here.
  • When weather permits, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors. Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spraying clothes with repellent containing permethrin or another EPA-registered repellent will give extra protection. Don't apply repellents containing permethrin directly to skin. Do not spray repellent on the skin under your clothing.
  • Take extra care during peak mosquito biting hours of early morning and dusk. Be sure to use repellent and wear protective clothing from dusk to dawn or consider avoiding outdoor activities during these times.

Prevent mosquito breeding grounds

  • Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitos outside.
  • Help reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires and drain birdbaths on a regular basis.

After mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus, fogging occurs within the next 7 to 10 business days, weather permitting. To check if your area will be fogged visit the department’s website or call the mosquito hotline, 502-574-6641. To make a complaint about mosquitos in your neighborhood call Metro311 by dialing 311 or 502-574-5000.


Spot a Tick in Louisville Metro

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Tick exposure occurs year-round but is more common in the warmer months of the year from April to September. The three most common tickborne illnesses in Jefferson County include ehrlichiosisRocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) and Lyme disease.

People with ehrlichiosis will often have fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and sometimes an upset stomach. RMSF is a bacterial disease spread through the bite of an infected tick. Most people who get sick with RMSF will have a fever, headache, and rash. RMSF can be deadly if not treated early with the right antibiotic.

People with Lyme disease usually get an expanding red rash that sometimes resembles a bullseye. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause rashes in other parts of the body. Some people may develop nerve problems, arthritis, or other disorders. But even if Lyme disease isn’t caught until later stages, most people fully recover after treatment with antibiotics.

To protect you and your family from tickborne illness, remember to treat gear and clothing with repellents before going outdoors. Once you have completed outdoor activities, check your body and any pets for ticks. Shower or bathe as soon as possible and wash and dry clothing at high heat.

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) has a "Spot a Tick and Share Program." If you find a tick, please fill out this form. LMPHW will identify the type of tick and also test the tick for diseases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme and ehrlichiosis.

How to remove a tick:

  • Follow these steps to learn how to safely remove a tick.
  • Safely remove it and place it in an air-tight container. Plastic Ziplock baggies are not an acceptable container.
  • Add in rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to the container, enough to fully cover the tick.
  • Label the container with your name and contact information and drop off the tick with a completed submission form to our office at 400 E. Gray St., Louisville, Ky, 40202.

For more information about ticks, please visit our Mosquito and Tick Control website.


Farmer's Market Every Sunday at Riverside

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Meals on Wheels

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Reporting Potholes

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We need your help reporting potholes, use one of the methods below;

  1. Use an online form by clicking here.
  2. Use Twitter by sending the location of the hole to @LouMetro311 and include the hashtag #502pothole.
  3. Call Metro311 or 574-5000 to report potholes or any other issues.
  4. Call our office at 574-1114, and we'll turn it in on your behalf.

To report a pothole on an interstate in Jefferson County, go to the “contact us” dropdown menu and select “report a hazard” on KYTC’s website http://transportation.ky.gov or click here.


Report a Litterer!

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 their car window. 

Click here to report.

Click here for more information


How Can You Help with Illegal Dumping

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Illegally dumped trash is more than just an eyesore! It is expensive to clean up, it negatively impacts our quality of life and economic development, and the plastic debris may end up in our waterways and oceans. Individuals caught dumping illegally may have their vehicle impounded and face fines and fees totaling about $1,000. 

Residents are encouraged to fill out this online form if they witness illegal dumping. The form can also be used to share home security camera footage or images of illegal dumping occurring with our Solid Waste Enforcement Department. Go to Louisvilleky.gov/IllegalDumping to learn more about how you can help prevent illegal dumping. 

Did you know..? Many waste materials can be dropped off legally and for FREE. Up to three large household items, up to 4 passenger tires, and up to 3 electronics items can be dropped off for free at the at the Waste Reduction Center, located at 636 Meriwether Avenue. A pickup truckload of yard waste or construction debris can be disposed for only $60.00.

Residents can also utilize the free Pop-Up Drop-Off events that occur monthly, on a Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., March - November, in various parts of Jefferson County. Items must be separated into the various categories for easy off-loading. Know before you go! View the accepted items list here: Louisvilleky.gov/PopUps.


Southwest Community Ministries - Items Needed

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Southwest Community Ministries is currently overwhelmed with families who have never needed assistance before but are running out of household and hygiene products! They are asking for help from members of the community, youth groups, or anyone willing to donate.

If you would prefer to give food donations, items such as ravioli, ramen, fruit cups, canned meats, soups, and peanut butter crackers are always good options. Things like Ensure and pull top lids are good for seniors as well!

Needed Household Items:

  • Toilet Paper
  • Paper Towels
  • Ramen Noodles
  • Ravioli
  • Kid Friendly Snacks
  • Kleenex
  • Clothing Detergent (Small)

Items can be dropped off at the Ministry (8504 Terry Rd.) Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. For more information please call (502) 935-0310.

Donations can also be made by visiting SouthwestCommunityMinistries.org/donate.


Meriweather Waste Reduction Center

Meriweather Waste Reduction Center

At the Waste Reduction Center, Louisville/Jefferson County residents can dispose of tires, household bulky waste such as metals, appliances, electronics, tree limbs and stumps up to three feet in diameter, unbagged yard waste, construction debris, and furniture.

Hours of Operation

Tuesday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Appointments available Tuesday - Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

Up to three household bulky items per day may be dropped off at no charge. Bulky loads or drop-offs exceeding three items will be charged according  - CASH ONLY.  

Examples of single items

  • Up to 4 passenger tires*
  • One appliance
  • One large household item such as mattress, box spring, sofa or chair

*No more than 4 tires will be accepted for free drop-off at one time regardless of the number of other items