Metcalfe Fiscal Court – COVID update

Macy Welch presents the COVID update to the court. Photo by Jennifer Moonsong
Jennifer Moonsong
Central Division
General Manager
Jobe Publishing, Inc.
At the April 27 regularly scheduled open meeting of the Metcalfe County fiscal court, Macy Welch gave a COVID update on behalf of Metcalfe County Emergency Management.
Welch stated that the county has had a total of 1,030 cases, with 904 recoveries, and 26 deaths. Region-wide, there have been 29,994 cases and 419 deaths.
“The vaccine is available for anyone over the age of 18 that wishes to get vaccinated,” she said.
The following locations are excepting appointments in Metcalfe County:
Barren River District Health Department in Metcalfe County
Metcalfe Drugs, out of stock at the time of the report
Edmonton Walgreens
The reported positivity rate for the past seven days was 3.26%, with Metcalfe County specifically being 4.3% the lowest in the Barren River District.
“The Barren River regional is over 75 percent capacity for ICU,” said Welch.
Information regarding FEMA’s funeral assistance program was also distributed. The program is designed to provide financial support of up to $9,000 for funeral costs, related to COVID-19. In order to obtain the financial assistance, individuals must provide a death certificate which states that COVID was the cause of death.
To register for these benefits, call 1-844-684-6333.
Eligible funeral service expenses include transportation for up to two individuals to identify the deceased, transfer remains, casket or urn, burial plot or cremation, marker or headstone, clergy or efficient services, arrangement of the funeral ceremony, use of funeral home equipment or staff, internment, cost associated with producing and certifying multiple death certificates and additional expenses mandated by any applicable local or state government law or ordinances.
In other news, the Metcalfe County fiscal court had the first reading of the fiscal year 2021-2022 budget, which was approved.
They also discussed health insurance coverage for county employees, and the permission to set up a fund code 84 for ARPA funds.
They also reviewed the ordinance being prepared by the county attorney regarding illegal dumpsites, and approve the Holiday Hill Road extension.