LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Low staffing levels have caused the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) to scale back its practice of providing on-duty officers for special events and large gatherings.

"With the latest change, LMPD will no longer be fully staffing most special events in an 'on duty' capacity," Louisville Metro's Emergency Management Agency said in a press release to Spectrum News 1. "LMPD will continue to provide on-duty staff for Metro-operated events, like the annual WorldFest, Hike Bike & Paddle and Light Up Louisville."

Other events that carry "enhanced security risks" will continue to be covered by LMPD, including the Kentucky Derby, Thunder Over Louisville and other Kentucky Derby Festival events. LMPD will also still provide on-duty staff for many Council-sponsored events thanks to changes to the Metro FY2022 budget.

Metro's Emergency Management Agency urged event organizers to utilize private security companies or volunteers.

Event organizers will still have to apply for a permit through the Special Events team within Metro’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA).

“We value our community partnerships, which help strengthen the safety of our communities, but LMPD staffing issues require this change,” said EMA Director Jody Meiman. “We know change can be difficult, but EMA and LMPD remain committed to remaining a strong partner throughout the process.”