Quicksie 98.3

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 8,167 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of these cases, 166 were newly confirmed. It is believed that 2,919 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus, however there were ten new deaths announced on Wednesday, bringing the state’s total to 376. Governor Beshear announced a $300 million award to city and county governments as part of the CARES Act, which will serve to reimburse local governments for expenses gained in response to COVID-19. These can include PPE purchases, telework supplies, and payroll expenses for public health. The Governor expressed pride in the efforts of local governments, and thanked them for all the work they have done during this time. To apply, eligible local governments with related expenses from March 1^st, 2020 to December 30^th, 2020 must complete an application with expense documentation, which became available on the Department for Local Government’s website at 8 AM today. Funds will be allocated to city and county governments based on approximate population size as recorded in the most recent census data.

According to a press release from officials, Towne Mall in Elizabethtown is readying to re-open today at 11 AM. According to the release, the center’s reopening plans include significantly enhanced cleaning and sanitizing protocols with a a focus on frequent touchpoints. Added signage and other safeguards will be in place to assure continued, appropriate social distancing and other precautionary measures.Not all stores and restaurants will be opened, and a full list of those that are open is available at TheTowneMall.com.