COVID-19 employee information

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government continues to follow all federal and state guidelines related to the COVID pandemic.  The most recent CDC guidelines for isolation and quarantine can be found on the CDC's website.  If you have any questions on the guidelines, please contact Mike Skidmore, HR Manager – Risk, Safety & Loss Control at mskidmore@lexingtonky.gov or (859) 425-2478. 

CDC guidelines for isolation and quarantine

Dear City Hall Family,

Starting today, City employees will no longer be required to wear masks in City buildings. Members of the public who visit government buildings will also not be required to wear a mask.

Nearly 74% of Lexington adults are fully vaccinated. Our seven-day average of new cases is currently lower than it was when I put the mask mandate in place last August.

Clearly, some division directors have more challenging environments, like the jail or the senior center. In consultation with the administration, those directors will decide whether to continue to wear masks in their areas.

Any employee should feel comfortable if he or she wants to continue to wear a mask. Employees are encouraged to put their personal and family safety first.

Thanks to all of you for all you have done during this long pandemic. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, you continued to provide excellent city services to our community. I am very proud of your dedication.

Sincerely,
Linda Gorton,
Mayor 

City Hall Family,

Since March 2020, we have worked together to make sure we are moving forward, safely, through the COVID-19 pandemic. I truly appreciate everything you’ve done during this difficult time. We’ve had to adapt to many changes, and I’m proud we’ve been able to consistently provide the professional services our residents expect. Thank you!

When I removed the mask requirement in government buildings for fully-vaccinated individuals in May 2021, our 7-day case average was around 30 cases. I put the mandate back into place for anyone in government buildings, regardless of vaccination status, after our 7-day case average exceeded 100 cases in August 2021.

Our 7-day average ballooned up over 900 cases in late January of this year. However, this average is falling very quickly in Lexington. For instance, from February 4-10, our 7-day case average was 674 daily cases.  But today our current 7-day case average is 215. That’s a dramatic drop, and we expect it to keep dropping.

Due to this decrease, I believe we will be able to remove the mask requirement for government buildings in the very near future. Please note, there may be facilities, like our detention center, where we will consider keeping the mask requirement in place for a bit longer.

In additional positive news, we continue to see an increase in fully-vaccinated and boosted residents. Nearly 74% of Lexington adults are fully vaccinated, with 49% having received their booster shot. Those numbers are considerably higher than the state - 66% of Kentucky adults are fully vaccinated, with 45% having received their booster shot.

We are tracking all of this information daily, as well as staying in communication with our health department. Health Commissioner McCullough supports universal masking as protection against COVID-19.

I am just as anxious as all of you to be “back to normal,” where we can have face-to-face interactions and simple hallway greetings without a mask. Stay tuned and thank you, again, for your commitment to serving our community.

Linda Gorton, Mayor

In order to help ensure our employees have the opportunity to take their earned paid leave time, we have recommended and the council has approved an extension of time allowed to take vacation leave and holiday leave. Additionally, CAO Hamilton has approved an extension of time allowed to use banked emergency hours (EMRG).

Vacation hours

All vacation hours earned may be accumulated without regard to any reduction provision from now until Dec. 31, 2023. All employees will have until Dec. 31, 2023 to take their earned vacation and reduce their balance of vacation to a maximum of 168 hours. Vacation hours in excess of 168 will be reduced back to 168 at the end of the pay period in which Dec. 31, 2023 falls. Separating employees will be paid out vacation time accumulated during that period without any reduction.

Holiday hours

All holiday hours earned may be accumulated without regard to any reduction provision from now until Dec. 31, 2023. All employees will have until Dec. 31, 2023 to take their earned holiday and reduce their balance of holiday leave to a maximum of 80 hours. Holiday hours in excess of 80 will be reduced back to 80 at the end of the pay period in which Dec. 31, 2023 falls. Separating employees will be paid out holiday time accumulated during that period without any reduction.

Banked emergency hours

Employees who accumulated banked emergency paid leave (EMRG) during the period March 30, 2020 to April 24, 2020 will have the time extended to take such leave to Dec. 31, 2023. Please share this information with all affected employees and direct any questions to Winona Embry, Payroll Manager, at (859) 258-3034.

Full memo

Because of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in our City, I am making the wearing of masks mandatory in all government buildings for all employees and visitors, effective close of business today, Monday, Aug. 9. The only exceptions are children who are too young to wear a mask (2 and under), and people who are medically unable to wear a mask. Employees do not have to wear a mask while they are alone in a private office

Linda Gorton,
Mayor

In light of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) updated recommendations and the rise in the number of cases involving the Delta variant of COVID-19, the following summary of guidelines and protocols are provided for employees effective immediately and until further notice. Complete information is available on the CDC’s website.

Masks

While not required, wearing a mask is highly recommended for employees and visitors upon entering a government building. Mask wearing is also highly recommended for any employee entering an indoor public area or private residence in the course of performingtheir duties.

Symptoms

All employees (regardless of vaccination status) should self-monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19, stay home if they are sick and/or have a temperature above 100.4. Any employee who experiences symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should isolate themselves from others, be clinically evaluated for COVID-19, and tested if indicated. Employees who test positive for COVID-19 should follow careinstructions from their healthcare provider and/or their local Health Department.

Exposures

Employees are recommended to quarantine if they have been in close contact (within 6 feet of someone for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period) with someone who has COVID-19, unless they are fully vaccinated. People who are fully vaccinated do NOT need to quarantine after contact with someone who had COVID-19 unless they have symptoms. However, fullyvaccinated people should get tested 3-5 days after such exposure, even if they do not have symptoms, and wear a mask in publicindoor settings for 14 days following exposure or until their test result is negative.

Vaccine Availability

If you or anyone you know needs a COVID-19 vaccine, they are available by same-day appointment at the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department every Monday, Wednesday and Friday in their Public Health Clinic. Call 859-288-2483 to make an appointment. All three vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna and Janssen) are available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Division of Human Resources – Safety and Loss Control at 859-258-3030.

I’m pleased to tell you we will be opening the doors of virtually all government buildings to the public on Friday, June 11, in keeping with the Governor’s plan for reopening and CDC guidance. Commissioners and Directors are preparing to reopen each office, and will have more information for you. In most government offices you will not be required to wear a mask, but you are free to do so if you like.

Thank you again for all you have done to serve residents throughout the pandemic. I know we’re all glad that COVID-19 is moving into our rearview mirror.

Sincerely,

Linda Gorton,
Mayor

There will be a vaccine clinic for employees and their families, anyone who is 12 years old or older. This will be the first shot of the Pfizer vaccine. The vaccine is free. 

Schedule an appointment at kyvax.wildhealth.com

Friday, May 21, 2021
2 - 7 p.m.
Fire Department Training Center
1375 Old Frankfort Pike

The Governor and the CDC have issued new rules related to pandemic safety precautions. From day one, we have followed the Governor’s guidance concerning COVID-19, and we will continue to do so today.

Specifically, we are following the Governor’s executive order filed May 13, after the CDC changed its requirements yesterday.

Here is how this new guidance applies to City employees in city work places:

•  If you are fully vaccinated (as in you have received the final dose of a vaccine at least 14 days ago) you do not have to wear a mask when working in city offices unless you work in the Jail, with children, in a long-term care setting, in public transportation (plane, bus, train), in a health care setting, or in a homeless shelter. 
   
•  If you have not received a vaccination, or are not fully vaccinated, you must continue to wear a mask in all city work places until fully vaccinated. 

• If you are immune-compromised you should continue to wear a mask.

Vaccines are free and readily available throughout the community. Details are on our website.

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) is committed to the safety of our employees and the citizens we serve to minimize the negative impacts related to the coronavirus. 

In order to assist with the challenges employees are experiencing associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, we would like to remind employees that federal legislation provides for emergency sick leave and expanded FMLA leave.  Our local government will continue to follow the requirements of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) effective April 1, 2020, through December 31, 2020, or as otherwise may be directed by law.  This legislation covers full-time and part-time employees subject to the eligibility requirements set forth in the law and is independent of any available leave balances an employee may have.

Additionally, effective August 3rd, employees who have exhausted all leave balances and choose to borrow from future anticipated sick leave accruals by recording PAT (Paid Away Time) on their timesheet, can do so up to a maximum cap of 120 hours.  Moreover, an employee may only borrow from future sick leave accruals after applying for and, if approved, utilizing emergency sick leave.  Once an employee has reached the 120-hour limit of borrowed sick leave, eligible employees may request other unpaid leave, as applicable.

Here are the previously released documents related to the FFCRA and borrowing leave for your reference.  You can contact HR or Payroll if you have any questions.

It has become increasingly clear that many of our classified and unclassified full-time civil service employees will find it difficult to take all of their personal paid leave in the allotted time frame for such leave and therefore a significant number of employees could potentially forfeit some of their earned paid time off. This is due primarily to COVID-19 restrictions inclusive of "healthy at home" and travel restrictions ordered by the governor this year. In order to help ensure our employees have the opportunity to take their earned paid leave time, we have recommended and Council has approved an extension of time allowed to take vacation leave. Additionally, CAO Hamilton has approved an extension of time allowed to use banked emergency hours (EMRG).

Vacation hours
All vacation earned may be accumulated without regard to any reduction provision from now until December 31, 2021. All employees will have until December 31, 2021 to take their earned vacation and reduce their balance of vacation to a maximum of 168 hours. Vacation hours in excess of 168 will be reduced back to 168 at the end of the pay period in which December 31, 2021 falls. Separating employees will be paid out vacation time accumulated during that period without any reduction.

Banked emergency hours
Employees who accumulated banked emergency paid leave (EMRG) during the period March 30, 2020 to April 24, 2020 will have the time extended to take such leave from April 27, 2021 to December 31, 2021.

Please share this information with all affected employees and direct any questions to Winona Embry, Payroll Manager, at 258-3034. 

The Phoenix Lot will be open to all employees, effective June 25, until further notice. If the lot gets full, park in your assigned garage. If you are normally assigned to park in the Phoenix Lot, but can’t find a spot, then park in the Helix and get a token. Stop by Security on the 1st floor of the Government Center or Phoenix Building to get it validated. 

Due to the increased volume of vehicles parking in the Phoenix lot, the drop arm will be lowered back to allow for normal operation beginning Monday, June 22.  Please park in your assigned location.

Employees who work downtown can now begin parking in the Phoenix parking lot. The entrance drop arm will remain raised until further notice.

Governor Andy Beshear has issued recommended guidelines for local government offices and agencies as part of the Governor's Healthy at Work initiative. While we are not yet open to the public, we must continue to provide services to our citizens. Below are safety and health guidelines related to COVID-19 prevention in our operations and interactions with fellow employees and citizens we must follow. 

Social distancing, cleaning and disinfecting and personal protective equipment

As we continue to provide needed services to the citizens of Lexington, we will follow the recommended guidelines below that are consistent with the Governor's recommendations: 

• Continue telework where possible. Employees who are able to perform their job duties via telework should continue to telework.

1. In the event an employee does not have available telework and is uncomfortable coming into the workplace, such an employee may take any available personal leave.
2. Employees that have run out of personal leave may still borrow from anticipated future sick leave accruals.
3. Additionally, the benefits contained in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act are available to all eligible employees.
    

• Observe social distancing. Employees who are physically present at the office should remain a minimum of six (6) feet away from all other employees and customers unless closer interaction is absolutely required to perform their job duties.

• Limit face-to-face interaction. Employees should meet via telephone or internet if possible and minimize face-to-face contact with one another and with customers to the greatest extent practicable. For those employees who interact with the public in their homes, there are additional guidelines available in the Division of Human Resources. 

• Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as practicable.

1. Employees – To the greatest extent practicable, employees should wear a face mask or cloth covering, unless masking would create a serious health or safety hazard to the employee or when the employee is working alone in a personal office space. A cloth mask will be provided for each employee if needed and will be available through each division's safety coordinator or other designee.
2. CDC guidelines on proper use of PPE. 
3. Contractors – If a contractor does not already have a mask, disposable masks will be provided upon entrance to buildings by security personnel or other available staff.
4. Gloves will be available to employees or contractors who request them, particularly those whose job duties include touching items often touched by others.
    

• Use adequate hand sanitizer and wash hands frequently. Hand sanitizer (60% alcohol content or higher) is available to both employees and customers and larger qualities that can be used to refill bottles are available through each division's safety coordinator or other designee. Employees must also remain diligent in routinely washing hands.

• Restrict access to common areas. Employees should not congregate in common areas, such as lobbies, break rooms, concession and smoking areas.

• Proper sanitation. Employees and contractors should wipe their workstations down with disinfectant at the end of their shift or anytime they discontinue use of their workstations for a significant period of time. Disinfectant is available to employees through each division's safety coordinator or other designee.

• Employees or contractors that operate vehicles. If riding in separate vehicles is not practicable, then employees or contractors should maximize social distancing and wear face coverings in the vehicle. Thorough cleaning and disinfecting vehicles after each trip is required.

• Facilities with loading docks. Drivers should limit interaction between and among themselves at loading docks, doorsteps, or other locations.

• Conduct daily temperature/health checks. Daily temperature and overall health checks must be performed prior to reporting to work each day. There may be procedures specific to each division consistent and compatible with their operations. Overall, all procedures shall include verification of completion of a health check questionnaire and temperature check prior to reporting to work each day. (This can be done verbally.)

The Director of Human Resources is designated as the Healthy at Work Officer. The Division of Human Resources will provide some material for training purposes. If you have questions regarding any aspect of this policy, please contact the Division of Human Resources or email HR Customer Service. 

First, we want to thank employees for the hard work and patience they have exhibited during the last four weeks while the government was providing only very basic services. As in other difficult times over the years, our employees have stepped-up and kept our great city running as smoothly as possible regardless of the current, very challenging situation throughout our city and our country. While we are slowly transitioning back to work, we still have to exercise extreme caution as it will be an extended process before we can get back to where we were prior to this pandemic outbreak in terms of both our operations and interactions with our fellow employees.

Accordingly, beginning on Monday, April 27, while we continue to provide needed services to the citizens of Lexington, we are going to transition back to teleworking whenever possible and practicing social distancing and following federal, state and CDC guidelines for safe work practices for those reporting to their work location. In the event an employee does not have available telework and is uncomfortable coming into the workplace, such an employee may take any available personal leave. Employees that have run out of personal leave may still borrow from anticipated future sick leave accruals. Additionally, the benefits contained in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act are available to all eligible employees.

Attached please find guidelines effective April 27 that explain both how to report time and some tips as to best workplace practices consistent with federal, state, and CDC guidelines. Please keep in mind this situation is extremely fluid and changing day by day, so communication and staying informed is a key component to successfully navigating us through this emergency. We will continue to update you as things change. Your cooperation in following these recommended guidelines will ensure we keep our workplace safe for everyone and will help do our part to reduce any chance of spreading the COVID-19 virus throughout the community.

If you have any questions about our policies related to this, you may contact your supervisor or the Division of Human Resources.

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) is committed to the safety of our employees and the citizens we serve to minimize the negative impacts related to the coronavirus.

In order to help with the challenges employees are experiencing associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, federal legislation was recently passed to assist employees that provides for emergency sick leave and expanded FMLA leave. Our local government will follow the requirements of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) effective April 1, 2020, through December 31, 2020, or as otherwise may be directed by law. This legislation covers full-time and part-time employees subject to the eligibility requirements set forth in the law.

• Tip Sheets—We put together 3 different tip sheets for easy reference to assist in explaining the requirements of the new law. These tip sheets explain:
  • Emergency Sick Leave relative to an employee’s illness
  • Emergency Sick Leave relative to caring for others
  • Expanded Family and Medical Leave for purposes of child care
     
• Forms to Request Leaves
  • Emergency Sick Leave
  • Expanded FMLA Leave for Child Care
     

Here is information on how to report time.

Additionally, here is an Employee Rights poster from the Department of Labor. The law requires this poster to be displayed in “a conspicuous place” at your location. Please ensure that employees working from home also receive a copy of this poster.

You will be receiving a spreadsheet from Payroll to assist you with calculating the regular rate of pay for employees as well as how to compute 2/3 rate as required under certain circumstances.

You can contact HR or Payroll if you have any questions.

To our Valued Patients of the LFUCG City Employee Pharmacy:             

Effective Monday, March 30, 2020, the LFUCG City Employee Pharmacy will ONLY be offering curbside service for all prescriptions. All patients requesting prescriptions will need to follow the curbside pick-up procedures below.

1. Call the pharmacy (859) 367-4990 before you depart your location so that we can make sure your prescription(s) are prepared. At this time you may also ask for Over-The-Counter items to be placed with your order.
2. Call the pharmacy upon arrival to the Samuel Brown Health Center parking lot.
3. Provide payment over the phone using a debit or credit card. If you must pay with cash, exact change in an envelope will be accepted.
4.  The pharmacist will provide counseling over the phone if there are questions about medications
5. Wait in your car for the pharmacy personnel to deliver your prescriptions to your car.

Please be aware that we are exploring mail order options in the near future to assist those patients with refill maintenance medications. This is NOT available yet. Please stay tuned for future communications.

We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause. Our aim is to keep our patients, our staff, and our community as safe as possible while continuing to deliver the highest level of care possible.          

Thank you for the privilege of serving you and your families during this difficult time. Thank you for your support and understanding as we seek to minimize risk to you, our patients, as well as our staff and the entire community.

Sincerely,           

LFUCG Pharmacy Staff

Financial assistance options available for MECU members affected by COVID-19

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) has caused a great deal of disruption in our world. If you are dealing with financial distress due to COVID-19, MECU wants to help.  Below are resources they are offering during this time:

COVID-19 Loan and VISA Card Deferments (Skip payments)

If you or your family have been negatively impacted financially by the virus, please email us at loans@metroemployeescu.org or call 859-258-3990, option 1 and then option 2 to request to have your loan payments deferred. 

COVID-19 Relief Loan

MECU has options for members that need help paying bills, purchasing medicine, groceries, or any expense that may arise.  If you have been financially impacted by COVID-19, please reach out to the loan department loans@metroemployeescu.org or call 859-258-3990, option 1 and then option 2 to see how they may be able to assist with the financial burden that your family may be facing.

The City Pharmacy has suspended deliveries to the Government Center. Please call the pharmacy at (859) 367-4990 if you have any questions. 

LFUCG essential personnel working downtown can park in the Phoenix lot.  Parking is first-come, first-served basis. The drop arm has been placed in the upright position for any and all personnel/visitors.

In office appointments will be limited.

To ensure the health and safety of their patients, as well as the clinical staff, the Samuel Brown Health Center (SBHC) is temporarily changing how they will provide treatment. SBHC will now be available for free telephonic medical and heath coaching appointments.

As a reminder: if you have respiratory symptoms, flu-like symptoms, or potential symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath), please do NOT come to the health center. Instead, call the health center to discuss your symptoms with a provider. For additional information, please visit the CDC website.

**The Samuel Brown Health Center is not able to do COVID-19 testing at this time**

If you already have an onsite appointment scheduled to take place in the coming weeks, the SBHC team will be contacting you to either proceed with your appointment telephonically or reschedule if necessary. Telephonic appointments will take place during normal clinic operating hours.

How to Schedule Your Free Telephonic Appointment

Please call the Samuel Brown Health Center at 859-425-2555. Your call will be routed to a provider who will triage your symptoms via the telephone. If one of our providers is not available to take your call, please leave a clear message indicating your name, date of birth, and phone number where you can be reached and someone will get back to you as soon as they are available.

How to Request RX Refills Online

You may submit refill request through the Marathon eHealth Portal for medications that were previously prescribed by a Marathon Health provider. Once a request has been submitted, please allow the provider 48 hours to contact to the pharmacy. 

To submit a request, log into the eHealth Portal > open the ‘My Health Record’ tab at the top of the page > select ‘Medical History’ in the drop-down menu. Once a refill has been requested the button becomes disabled and reads, “Refill Pending.”  If you don’t know your Marathon eHealth Portal login credentials, please utilize the “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” links on login screen.

Clinic Hours

Monday/Wednesday/Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tuesday/Thursday 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

*Reminder that there is a temporary “no walk-in” policy in effect.

The Samuel Brown Health Center is here to help with all your healthcare needs during this time.

Effective Monday, March 23, 2020, the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government will be restricting access to all visitors to City buildings in order to further promote and add to initiatives already taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  Walk-in visitors will not have access to our buildings, but the services we provide will remain in place.

Accordingly, with respect to all employees, we have initiated social distancing, telework, and other sanitizing measures. We understand that during this time, employees may wish to stay home and not work. You will need to get permission from your supervisor, and use personal leave time. In the event no such leave time is available, employees can borrow from anticipated future sick leave accruals.

We are dedicated, not only to making our work environment as safe as possible, but also to providing our citizens with the services they rightly expect and deserve. Thank you for all you do in service to our citizens. 

A Message from Ashley Stewart, RPh

To our patients and their families,

As we learn more each day from our leaders and top medical professionals regarding the spread of COVID-19, we want you to know that your City Pharmacy is working to be as proactive as possible to continue to treat and care for our patients, while also working to prevent the spread of this virus.

Effective immediately, the City Pharmacy will follow the precautions for sick and non-sick patients until further notice:  

SICK PATIENTS (DO NOT ENTER PHARMACY)

If you are currently experiencing any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, congestion, shortness of breath, and need a medication filled, please contact the pharmacy and arrange a pickup time and payment for the prescription. Patients must call upon arrival to the parking lot so that they can be counseled on the medications being picked up prior to the prescription being brought out to the patient. By following this process, it will limit the contact sick patients will have with pharmacy staff and other patients.

NON-SICK PATIENTS

Occupancy within the pharmacy will be limited to one patient at a time. The waiting room, in accordance with appropriate social distancing recommendations – the CDC defines it as keeping a distance of 6 feet between you and another person – can accommodate two patients at a time.

The City Employee Pharmacy is asking that patients call the pharmacy prior to arriving to ensure their prescription(s) are ready. Also, if there is a need for the over the counter medicine, please request the item is placed with your completed order for pick-up.

The Pharmacy is also wanting to limit cash transactions when possible. Card transactions are the preferred method of payment; however, we understand and will accept cash payments when necessary.

Upon arrival, if the occupancy of the pharmacy and waiting room area is greater than previously stated, please practice appropriate social distancing by waiting in other areas such as the clinic waiting area or hallway.

We know that these precautions may seem dramatic in nature, and while our hope is that we are being overly cautious, our ultimate priority is to minimize the spread of the virus the best we can.

Our goal is to continue to serve our patients and their families throughout this illness. With your help, we can make sure our patients still receive the best treatment in the safest environment possible.

Please feel free to call the pharmacy with any questions or concerns at (859) 367-4990.

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government has already begun issuing a number of initiatives to keep our employees as well as the general public safe and reduce the chances of spreading the COVID19 virus.

In this regard, the Mayor has encouraged a social distancing initiative not only within LFUCG but also throughout our city. Hand washing and social distancing are the two most important things that can be done to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. If you have been diagnosed with the coronavirus, in close contact with someone who was diagnosed, or otherwise have symptoms associated with the virus, stay home from work. If you think your job could allow you to work from home, ask your supervisor to do so. If you cannot work from home, you may take any available personal leave (vacation, holiday, or sick leave) you have earned to ensure your safety and that of your fellow employees. You may also borrow from future sick leave accruals if you run out of leave time.

We have developed a number of policies that have already been posted and please find attached to this memo a list of recently developed “frequently asked questions” that address some issues and questions that have come forth in the last week. Also, we have included a file of Health and Safety FAQs, whereby you can access information from our website, the state’s website, and the Center for Disease Control’s website so to stay appropriately informed. Please know this situation is extremely fluid and changing day by day, so communication and staying informed is a key component to successfully navigating us through this emergency.

We have many employees who have been working tirelessly to ensure we have the proper systems in place to help our employees stay safe and, at the same time, continue to provide the needed services our citizens expect and deserve.

If you have any questions about our policies related to this, you may contact your supervisor or the Division of Human Resources.

Below are listed some information and further clarification of policy questions that have arisen since LFUCG issued guidelines for full, part-time, and seasonal employees related to Emergency Operations and Closures.  Due to the wide range of services provided by the city, each division has an operation plan specific to their needs and to ensure the citizens of Lexington are appropriately served.  The questions below are designed to respond to LFUCG operations in general, however specific questions regarding division operations should be referred to that division and department leadership.

1. What happens if an employee comes to the workplace with virus symptoms?
   
   LFUCG employees who have been exposed to COVID-19 or who otherwise exhibit the symptoms of COVID-19 should not come to work.  Instead, these employees should utilize any available personal leave time and after exhausted may borrow leave time from future sick leave accruals as recently allowed due to this emergency.  If an employee has been exposed to the virus, they will be asked to self-isolate for 14 days (to include up to ten (10) working days) and monitor for any symptoms of illness. Visit the CDC website for symptoms. 
    
2. Can we allow employees to telework?
   
   Yes. The respective Commissioner in consultation with the Director, may allow employees to telework on a case-by-case basis as determined by the operational needs and in accordance  with the telework guidelines previously issued.  Employees must follow their department or division’s instructions when performing telework and all time worked shall be recorded.
    
3.  How will LFUCG deal with school closing?
   
   Parents who feel they need to take time off in order to provide care for their children may use any available leave.  Once all leave time is exhausted, borrowing sick leave time from future anticipated accruals is permitted in accordance with the Emergency Operations Guidelines regarding borrowing sick leave.  Employees will not be allowed to bring children into the workplace.
    
4. Should employees wear a face mask at work?
   
   Healthy people do not need to wear a face mask in their day-to-day activities.  Face masks are recommended for people who are sick because the mask creates a barrier from germs being spread due to coughing/sneezing.  Wearing a face mask is recommended for health care providers who are on the front lines of treating people who are sick. We need them to stay           healthy to be able to do their jobs.
    
5. What options do employees have if they choose to stay home from work because of concern about exposure to the coronavirus? 
   
   Some employees may need to stay home because they are part of a high-risk health category or otherwise request time off for issues that affect them related to the COVID-19 virus.  We are committed to work with them on a case-by-case basis to see if telework is an option.  If that is not an option they may use any paid personal leave category (vacation, holiday, sick, comp time), to cover their absence.  Additionally, if they have exhausted their available personal leave, they are able to “borrow” sick leave from anticipated future accrued leave.  Division leadership must work closely with these individuals.  Additionally, the employee relations section of the division of Human Resources can assist with questions.
    
6. If an employee has exhausted all leave time, can they borrow from future anticipated sick leave accruals?
   
   Yes.
    
7. Is a doctor’s note required upon returning to work?
   
   We are recommending that departments/divisions not require doctor’s notes.  As we prepare    for the possibility of COVID -19 becoming widespread, we are encouraging employees to seek       medical attention when necessary and not as a requirement of furnishing proof of illness.
    
8. For those employees in job classifications that are restricted from work due to closures, will such employees be paid?
   
   Yes.  Employees, will be paid if LFUCG shuts down their area and this includes part-time and seasonal employees that are otherwise scheduled to work but cannot work due to the closing of another agency.  The code EMRG for reporting such pay should be used.
    
9. How are we handling travel on behalf of LFUCG?
   
   We are restricting ALL in and out of state travel until further notice. If there are any questions about travel needs, contact the Office of the CAO.
    
10. Are we allowed to continue with interviews?
    
    Yes. The Division of Human Resources has released guidelines that include social distancing initiatives for purposes of in-person interviews. However, divisions are encouraged to conduct phone interviews, skype, video conference, or other technology where possible. The division of Human Resources can assist with this initiative.
     
11. Will new employees still be attending NEO?
    
    Yes. The Division of Human Resources is expanding the number of NEOs in order to reduce the number of attendees to very small groups and/or individual orientation. Additionally, HR is rescheduling to larger venues with higher seating capacity to provide for social distancing.
     
12. How will future information be disseminated?
    
    Not all LFUCG employees utilize email.  Notices will be sent to payroll coordinators and will be posted on LexLink and the City's website.
     
13. How should departments/divisions manage sanitation and hygiene?
    
    Each division should practice social distancing as is possible.  Contact Facilities about questions regarding keeping workspaces and communal areas clean and sanitized. 
     
14. How should employees notify LFUCG of their need to be off work due to sickness or isolation need?
    
    Employees should contact their supervisor or designee about their condition and the need to miss work.
     
15. An employee tells you they want to wear a mask and will be providing their own N95 dust mask/respirator; or if you see an employee wearing a mask at work whose job doesn’t require one; what do you do?
    
    The federal government (OSHA) requires an employee to be properly trained on the use of a respirator, including putting one on and removing it, and any limitations regarding use and maintenance.  See 29 CFR 1910.134.   If you have this situation, contact the Division of Risk Management for further information to ensure compliance with OSHA regulations. 

1. Where can I get the facts about COVID-19?
   • Kentucky Department for Public Health
   • City's website
   • COVID-19 Hotline 1-800-722-5725
    
2. Where can I get posters/fact sheets?
   The CDC website. 
    
3. I don't have soap and water available, what should I do?
   This video answers important questions about hand washing and hand sanitizer. 
    
4. Here is another video that demonstrates proper hand washing. 
    
5. Is our facility clean? How do you know our facility is clean?
   The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government is following CDC guidelines as outlined in the cleaning and disinfection protocol. For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective.
   
   Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
   
   Prepare a bleach solution by mixing: 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
   
   EPA List N are expected to be effective against COVID-19 based on data for harder to kill viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.).
    
6. What are the signs and symptoms of COVID-19? How will I know if what I'm experiencing is just a cold or maybe COVID-19?
   
   Visit the CDC website. 
    
7. I think I've been exposed to COVID-19 and I have a fever, what should I do?
   
   See the state's When to seek care.

All in and out-of-state business travel is restricted until further notice. LFUCG employees are still permitted to travel throughout Fayette County.

The City taking steps to protect the well-being of employees and their families, given the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus).

We have increased the frequency of sanitizing high touch areas, such as door handles/push bars, elevator call buttons, handrails and restrooms.

Sanitizing wipes have been made available to all divisions and staff for wiping down keyboards, phones and common areas, such as breakrooms. Participation by all employees is critical to reduce the rate of contamination.

Water fountains and ice machines will be turned off, effective Thursday, March 12. We encourage employees to bring their water and ice from home:

Water

• Employees can use the hands-free bottle filler on our water stations.
• Employees can bring their own drinking water, either using personal reusable bottles or commercial bottled water.
• Vending machines operators will be encouraged to make water available for purchase.

Ice

• For City events, use only bagged ice purchased from stores, and dispose of at the end of the event. 
• For individual use, employees can bring ice with them from home in small portable coolers.
• Use refrigerators to cool bottled sodas and water.

The health and safety of you, your families, and our citizens is a top priority. We are working diligently to track public health developments and workplace best practices.  

Thank you for all you do for our City.

Anthem recommends that members use their telehealth provider, LiveHealth Online, when possible, especially when symptoms seem consistent with conditions that could be contagious in nature, such as COVID-19.

By utilizing a telehealth provider you can help prevent the spread of contagious viruses within waiting rooms or doctors’ offices by contacting a doctor via smart phone, tablet or other devices.

This service is offered by our Anthem health insurance plans (subject to deductibles, coinsurance, out-of-pocket cost) and registration is quick and easy. Visit their website to register and have your Anthem ID available. 

LiveHealthOnline is a convenient way to interact with a U.S. board-certified doctor via live, two-way video on your computer or mobile device 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Doctors can ePrescribe to local pharmacies as your state allows. 

The cost for an online doctor visit is the same as the copay for an office visit under you PPO Medical Plan or $59 on you HSA Medical Plan.

Each section will secure disinfectants and cleaning supplies for a minimum of 120 days.  The importance of maintaining a minimum inventory level is crucial for sustaining a heightened level of effort.  Items include:

• Masks
• Gloves
• Hand soaps
• Sanitizing solutions (premix and concentrate)
• Sanitizing wipes
• Other consumables 
   

Sanitizing wipes will be made available to divisions and staff for wiping down door handles, keyboards, phones and common areas such as breakrooms.  Participation by ALL employees is critical to reduce the rate of contamination.

In areas where there is extensive interaction between the public and employees, hand sanitizer dispensers must be installed and maintained for use by visitors and staff.  Examples of such areas:

• Police Headquarters, Main Floor
• Government Center Security Desk
• Revenue, 2nd floor of Government Center
• Building Inspection
• Code Enforcement
• Council Chambers
• LexServ
• Senior Citizens Center
• Community centers and event venues
• Increase the frequency of sanitizing all areas.  Clean:
• Doors handles/push bars 
• Water fountains 
• Elevator call buttons and handrails
• Bathrooms, especially faucets, dispensers, stall hardware and flushers
   

At this time, we recommend you use the hands-free bottle filler on the water station.

Each group must anticipate the potential for the reallocation of available resources (labor, equipment and material) in order to allow for increases in sanitization services.

The janitorial contractors at the Wellness Center will be asked to increase/adjust their services under the direct supervision of the Clinic management on daily basis.

Mayor Linda Gorton and Commissioner of Health Dr. Kraig Humbaugh announce Lexington’s first case of COVID-19 (2019 novel coronavirus). Health officials are working with the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) to identify and speak with all those who may have come in close contact with the person. These individuals will be monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms. There are four confirmed cases in Kentucky.

Additional details about the person cannot be provided because of medical privacy laws.

“We can, and we will, get through this," Mayor Gorton said. "We need to take care of the elderly, pay attention to basic hygiene, and remember there's no need to panic. Just use common sense and be prepared. We will make sure you stay informed."

The health department offered these tips to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
   

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person:

• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
• Via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
   

Senior adults and those with chronic health conditions are at higher risk for complications of COVID-19. The CDC recommends the following for people over the age of 60 and anyone with heart, lung or kidney disease, cancer or diabetes:

• Stay at home as much as possible.
• Make sure you have access to medications and supplies in case you are advised to stay home.
• When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.
• Avoid crowds.
   

COVID-19 is an emerging disease and the health department is staying up-to-date on the latest information.

To help answer the community’s questions about COVID-19, the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department is operating a call center for members of the public. Questions can be asked by calling (859) 899-2222 or emailing COVID19@lfchd.org. Additional information, including frequently asked questions, can be found at lfchd.org and on the LFCHD social media accounts. Find them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

In an effort to reduce the risk of the spread any infectious diseases including CODVID-19, also known as the Coronavirus, the Samuel Brown Health Center will begin pre-screening patients. 

The Samuel Brown Health Center has already begun taking precautionary measures as recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to screen patients with respiratory symptoms and/or fever prior to scheduled appointment time, if possible. Patients will be screened as follows:

• Patients scheduling appointment by phone will be screened while on the phone.
• Patients self-scheduling appointments online will be contacted by the Samuel Brown Health Center prior to their appointment time to be screened.
• Patients who walk-in to be seen will be screened at the time of sign-in
   

Samuel Brown Health Center continues to monitor the CDC to ensure they have the most up-to-date information and to ensure they are following the recommendations as provided by that agency and consistent with best practices.

This is just an update for your information and we will continue to update you as any additional information becomes available. 

If you have questions, you can contact the Division of Human Resources, Benefits Section at 859-258-3030 or the Samuel Brown Health Center directly at 859-425-2555.