Yesterday marked one of the toughest days for the Commonwealth thus far in the fight against COVID-19, as Governor Andy Beshear announced that there were 114 new cases of the virus in the state. In addition, seven more deaths related to the illness were announced, bringing the state’s total to 18. All of these victims had underlying health conditions. In terms of new steps being taken, Governor Beshear announced that the child care options that the state has been providing to first responders and health care workers will be expanded to grocery store workers as well. In addition, the Governor announced that an order was issued to allow critical workforce sectors such as fire departments, law enforcement, emergency medical service personnel, park rangers, and corrections officers to rehire previously retired workers to fill key roles. The order will last the duration of the state of emergency.
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The Hardin County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a suspicious man knocking on doors over the weekend. Reportedly, the man, later identified as Johnny Kolley of Cecilia, was knocking on doors asking to use a phone charger. When officers arrived, they saw Kolley walking behind a house. The residents of the home started pointing at him, and as officers pulled into the driveway, Kolley fled on foot. As officers exited the vehicle, several commands to stop were given, but Kolley hopped a gate and ran into a barn, where he was apprehended. Kolley would not give officers his hands, and when checked, was discovered to have an active warrant. He was arrested for fleeing or evading police, burglary, and resisting arrest. He is lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.
The City of Elizabethtown has announced a new effort in order to attempt to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. At a specially called meeting of the Elizabethtown City Council, a budget amendment was approved that will create the Economic Stimulus Recovery Fund. The fund will be available to qualifying small businesses in the city of Elizabethtown, and the city will make grants up to $3000 available per small business to aid in recovery efforts. Mayor Jeff Gregory said that the city wanted to, “…provide some immediate relief for businesses until the various proposed state and federal programs can cut off assistance.” The city will begin taking applications for the funding on April 1st. More information, including a list of eligible businesses and program guidelines can be found at elizabethtownky.gov.