Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Committee For Persons With Disabilities - 10/05/2001 MINUTES - QUORUM MEETING COMMITTEE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES October 5, 2001 Commissioners - Present Commissioners - Absent Chairperson: Ms. Crystal Lyons Ms. Frances Garza Ms. Sandra Cabazos Ms. Linda Fallwell-Stover Mr. Roberto M. Flores Ms. Toni Padilla Ms. Mary J. Saenz Mr. Eloy Soza Mr. Glen Ray Torno CITY STAFF: (ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT) Building Official: Park & Recreation Director: Mr. Art Sosa Mr. Tony Cisneros — David Andreas attended for him. Human Relations Administrator: Legal Advisor: Mr. L. David Ramos, Interim Director Mr. Joseph Harney Human Relations Management Assistant: Ms. June Shultz ATTENDANCE - Roll Call — Absences: Frances Garza, Linda Fallwell-Stover. Audience: Judy Telge, Susan Cable, Abel Alonzo, Mary Frances Teniente and David Seiler WELCOME - Mary Saenz, Sr. Counselor, Texas Rehabilitation Commission, 11 years, before that she worked with the Private Industry Council — 13 School Districts. SCANNED APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: Minutes of September 5, 2001 were reviewed. Motion to approve minutes made by Toni Padilla, and seconded by Sandra Cavazos. Vote taken and the minutes were approved. PUBLIC COMMENTS/PRESENTATIONS: Susan Cable — City Internet/Intranet site presentation. Ms. Cable indicated that the City wants to make it accessible. However, they only have one staff member, who can work on it on a part-time basis. It has been approximately one year since she last met to discuss this issue. She discussed that a Supplement Budget was submitted by her Office and MIS for a Technician, but it was not funded. Their office currently has a Governor's Office Review List, which identifies standards — i.e.: tagging the photos and graphics on sites. They are working on an interim site —new sites must meet all the new standards. They have the criteria for minimum requirements. They modify information coming in and have the federal standards list and are trying to follow it. But that is tricky, now with security problems. The request for assistance from Del Mar — we have security controls in place, which restricts access to MIS equipment and information. Most software now is modified to include ADA standards in new software. The City has joined Public Software, Inc. to help share accessible site information, standards and criteria. The City is moving slowly, but making progress. If we had the resources and time, we could do more. Ms. Lyons asked about the City's Electronic Technology Policy? Are there any goals and timelines? Ms. Cable indicated that it addresses e-mail, record retention, open records issues. A team has been formed to study it, recommend in draft form in Legal, then it goes through 1. T. commission — concerns regarding privacy and access restrictions. Ms. Cable indicated she is not the head of the other components. She's putting information forward regarding accessibility. Present timeline — Internet — 1 staff member, 20 minutes to 1 hour tagging pages a day, over 1,000 pages have been tagged and it is an on- going process. Ms. Lyons raised questions about the City's Council Agenda. Ms. Cable indicated that the City Secretary's Office have met with a company regarding a new software program, which has an electronic version to upload. The City doesn't have the resources to do it now, currently using PDF Files. Provided statistical information indicates it is being used, but they are working to improve it. Ms. Lyons asked if Ms. Cable had a written plan? Ms. Cable indicated that right now they are attempting to get the photos and graphics tagged. Mr. Tomo asked what is 2 tagged? Ms. Cable clarified that at each applicable location, there is a tagged topic of text for a picture or graphics. Ms. Cavazos asked, "when they spoke with the Governor's office, what is okay?" Ms. Cable indicated that there were limited problems, some standards, suggested tagging of photos and graphics, don't do flashing items —there was a list of items. List of technology for Access Board — they're starting on it. Trying to catch up with what's currently on sites, security issues, inter-links with others, new pages, building permits, vendors, meetings on accessibility. Tables are a block, so we don't use them now. Ms. Lyons discussed the Transition Plan, and indicated that it is illegal to provide services to persons without disabilities and must ensure equal application. She suggested forming a sub- committee to draft a recommendation to the City Manager. She also indicated her hope that Ms. Cable will keep the Committee informed and notified of needs. Ms. Saenz asked if Ms. Cable would be able to provide an approximate timeline and what her second goal would be (after the tagging). Ms. Cable indicated she hopes the new software can help, but there is no set timeline — there is on-going entering on the tagging, she can't give a date. Ms. Saenz raised a question, if this process won't finish, then how would the City proceed with second and future goals? Ms. Cable indicated that they are talking with new vendors, working on putting accessibility standings in place, that it is an on-going educational process on things we need to do. Ms. Lyons asked Ms. Cable if she could work on a Plan — set priorities and develop a tentative timeline? Ms. Cable indicated that she didn't have the necessary staff. Ms. Lyons asked her to just identify the goals. Ms. Cable indicated she didn't have the expertise to do so. Ms. Lyons again mentioned Title II — don't have it (information on website) if it isn't accessible, if something is provided — it must be accessible to all persons. Ms. Cable asked is she was saying that regarding the Agenda — it must be accessible or not at all. Ms. Lyons indicated yes. The Department of Justice are presently trying cases of this type. We'll work on our end on priorities and back up the Communications and Quality Management Office with the City Manager. Whether something can be done — we need a comprehensive assessment. Ms. Cable indicated that we don't have the technological expertise. Ms. Lyons indicated that the Committee could form an Ad-Hoc Committee. Ms. Padilla indicated that it appears the City doesn't know what's needed to be done. To fix or to identify what is lacking. Ms. Cable indicated that they lack both person and knowledge. The Committee has more knowledge to identify priorities. She hasn't received any complaints on accessibility issues. The only complaint received was from Ms. Lyons regarding the Council Agenda. It should be based on population, if it has a 3 need, then set the priorities. Ms. Lyons indicated that the City doesn't have to wait to be asked. The Committee will form an Ad-Hoc Committee and get back with her. The next presentation was given by Mary Frances Teniente, from the Department of Engineering; to keep the Committee involved in the work projects being done. The new streets with curb ramps are being referred to TDLR for review. Standards now need to go for revisions. The Department of Public Highways now has projects for streets and curb cuts, also RTA. The City Department is seeing differences and they see that we need to revise our standards. They wanted to know the level of involvement with this Committee. There is a concern regarding the contrast color and surface pattern and elevation for curb cuts — what meets the needs? Ms. Lyons is hoping the City will come up with a standards sheet. Have they asked local architects within the community? There was general discussion on wear, color, design, etc. Handouts were distributed — samples, discussion on hazards, list of pros and cons. Ms. Teniente discussed subdivisions and special services, and how different entities have different standards. Ms. Lyons asked when the Committee could provide input? Ms. Teniente indicated, "at any time". Ms. Lyons stated the Committee would certainly address it and provide input. She expressed thanks for including the Committee in the developmental phase. David Seiler pointed out the substantial costs — consulting showing need to reconstruct, not due to worn sidewalks, but how to improve for users with some accessibility issues? It may be a moot point — but in some cases of City and TDLR, if you want the biggest bang for your buck - ramps may be more important, establish sidewalk standards and prioritize. Need to come up with a threshold — eventually address all — but during interim prioritize. Ms. Teniente discussed the Alameda, Staples, Louisiana and Weber projects — what was selected. Ms. Lyons discussed address dangerous and broken areas, etc. Prioritization can help set priorities because of specific reasons. Mr. Seiler indicated that was his hope in coming before the Committee. They need the rationale to show to TDLR, thresholds to be established by local advocate committee, this may held. Right now there is a strict cut off. Ms. Teniente indicated that she would provide a report next month on the CDBG Funded Projects. Ms. Lyons indicated that if they would want to do a single topic workshop, that Committee members would attend — if there were enough interest. 4 The next report was provided by Art Sosa — who indicated that the Legal Department was working on the Ordinance Revision previously discussed. He went to a meeting on Wednesday with Austin Building Officials. In discussion he learned that most have adopted TAS, eliminated Chapter 11, and do all projects under $50,000 in house. He indicated that to become a Municipal Contract Provider, he would need to increase his staff by 2 staff members. (See handout he distributed.) CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT: Since the last meeting, the Chair has been very active within the community. She attended: • City Panel for the Human Relations Director selection process. • A recognition event for the former Mayor's Committee, now the Committee — Governor's Committee Gala in Dallas. • The Blue Resource Guide, published in November, entered as "Arbuckle Award". • She discussed concern of polling place and enforcement with some of the persons present. She believes this will be communicated to appropriate persons. • Human Relations Commission — trying to provide disability awareness information. Last month she provided employment statistics, and tomorrow she will provide Title II information. • The Housing Authority provided a response to the community meeting; they took the comments into consideration and will address consideration for the points raised. Citizen comments: Judy Telge indicated that she made a suggestion to Marge Reue of the City's Human Resources Department to apply for the "Arbuckle Award" for the City regarding the Texas Architectural Barriers Act Academy Training the City is providing— it is a role model program and is proactive. COMMITTEE REPORTS: Policy Development Sub-Committee Report: Ms. Padilla indicated that the committee members spoke on the telephone, but there is nothing definitive yet regarding the policy on how to handle requests coming in from the Community. 5 Outreach Sub-Committee Report: Mr. Soza reminded the committee about joining local coalitions — this will assist with outreach and networking. Ad Hoc Committee — Legislative Issues: The committee members have held telephone conversations and there was a handout distributed to all members. Education—there was a handout distributed and members have made contact with radio stations on "People First" language. There was discussion about the need for revision of City Ordinances to reflect "People First" language. Mr. Sosa mentioned going through the Communications and Quality Management Department for production of PSA's and also to provide a presentation to the City Council. Ms. Lyons indicated she would like to meet with Mr. Ramos for information on use of billboards and/or restrictions. Ms. Padilla mentioned What-a-burger — they could submit a request for funding, they own billboards or use bus benches, or other options. Mr. Sosa mentioned that regarding billboards, many non-profits get free advertisements. He indicated that the sub-committee members could get additional information from him after the meeting. Continuing with the discussion on "People First" language, Mr. Sosa indicated that the Legal Department could do a search to identify areas that need to change verbiage to "People First". Ms. Lyons mentioned the Brochure. They are looking at the printing options now. They would like to call by Monday — provide any additional input prior to that time. Ms. Cavazos indicated that the work done regarding the legislative committee update was pending. She provided a handout and indicated there would be another committee meeting later this month. Ms. Lyons provided information regarding HB 1378. Ms. Padilla discussed the letter writing campaign and flyers for "People First" language awareness. The Committee members would like to see the letters and flyers before they are finalized. Ms. Cavazos indicated that this is a targeted goal, but nothing is ready yet. It was discussed that Mr. Ramos could provide a special "Sensitivity Training" program. He could prioritize and set up the meeting (make the necessary arrangements and notice of training) and have some of the Committee members there. Ms. Lyons discussed the letter writing campaign and having business contact on correspondence. 6 Ms. Lyons discussed Building Code standards. Made a recommendation to the Committee that the Committee support the City of Corpus Christi adopting and support of TAS standards at all values, with understanding that $50,000 and above go to TDLR. She made a motion to support adoption and enforcement of TAS (Texas Accessibility Standards) as recommended by Mr. Sosa. Mr. Soza seconded the motion. A vote was taken and passed unanimously. This recommendation would be provided to the City Council in the form of a resolution — as an education tool for the community, Committee and for Art Sosa, during the course of his presentation to the Mayor and City Council. This way it will also become a matter of public record. Discussion ensued on when Mr. Sosa would need the resolution. Mr. Sosa indicated he's working on the shell of the revised ordinance, but would like the resolution as soon as possible. Mr. Ramos indicated he would e-mail everyone or call them when the resolution was ready for signatures. ADMINIS 1 BATOR'S REPORT: Mr. Ramos distributed a monthly report. He reviewed the information with the Committee. Mr. Ramos informed the Committee of the October 26th CUFABCC Conference. The Human Relations Office will e-mail everyone a copy of the Agenda. Mr. Ramos discussed the recent HUD training held in Chicago, IL. There are many disability issues that were discussed at the training. He informed the Committee that HUD has asked for input from FHAPs on next year's Conference in Los Angeles, CA. Mr. Ramos discussed the Transition Plan Project. Thirteen Departmental ADA Coordinators attended training on the self-evaluation process. Mr. Ramos has issued another memorandum for a second training session. Ms. Lyons asked if this would delay or extend the deadline? Mr. Ramos stated that "No, everyone received the memorandum, and he has let them know that they are behind and they have to catch up. Ms. Lyons put forward an offer of assistance from Committee members. Mr. Ramos indicated that he would appreciate the assistance. Also, he and Joseph Harney, Legal Department, had obtained TDD equipment. He asked for the Committee's input on where to place it in City Hall. As they are going through the Transition Plan, they will designate other locations as well. It requires a digital designated line, so need to make the necessary arrangements. Ms. Lyons indicated that it should be in the office of the ADA Coordinator. Mr. Ramos indicated he would proceed with the installation. Ms. Lyons offered to donate a book on how to use TDD equipment. Mr. Ramos said he would get 7 the telephone number and provide it to the Committee. Ms. Lyons asked for the telephone number for the brochure, prior to the printing. Ms. Padilla indicated that if the City wants to use TDD, they might need method in place to route to person(s) trained in TDD equipment. Chances are that they will go through Relay Texas. Ms. Lyons voiced a desire to include 711 information on the Brochure for Relay Texas. Mr. Ramos also mentioned that 311 is the designated number for municipalities (for in the future). Mr. Ramos mentioned the City Manager and Mayor as being having a designated Customer Service Center. Ms. Lyons indicated that getting TDD equipment for them would be a priority. Mr. Ramos gave a report on enforcement. The Human Relations Office received two informal ADA complaints, but had issues of no accessible parking and restrooms. He provided technical assistance on ADA specifications and information in two instances. He provided outreach and community training, as well as provided sensitivity training to 13 people. Regarding employment cases — 24 were closed, of which 1 had ADA issues. With respect to Fair Housing complaints — 1 had ADA issues. He was sending the file to Ft. Worth and would be working with them on the case. The Office had 39 inquiries pertaining to ADA issues. Ms. Lyons asked if referrals were given to helpful websites? Ms. Telge indicated that they are currently updating the Resource Guide. Ms. Lyons suggested referral to Resource Guide locations, United Way and/or service providers. Mr. Flores asked who pays for the Resource Guide? Ms. Telge indicated that there are advertisers, also Caller Times gives over run copies to them, and they give them back to sponsors to distribute. The Resource Guide is circulated by the Caller Times — final changes are due within the next two weeks. NEW BUSINESS: Ad Hoc Committee — Website Issues: Committee members and persons from the community. Ms. Lyons asked for recommendations from the Committee. Ms. Telge indicated she is working on access process. Mr. Jack Widder, a citizen present for the meeting, indicated that he writes web pages. Ms. Lyons discussed issues of organization, use of "Bobby", etc. She will have Mr. Ramos notify members and interested citizens of meeting, once it is scheduled. Mr. Widder discussed ability to have audio text with each web page. Ms. Lyons expressed the need to reach out to the community — not 8 just visually impaired — there are mobility and dexterity issues, etc. Ms. Lyons suggested at least one week or so lead-time. Committee Concerns/Items for Next Agenda: • Concern: proposal — recommendation that the City adopt an ordinance of non-discrimination against persons with disabilities. • Based on Transition Plan — website issues, committee to enforce and ADA-Vendor issues. (Mr. Ramos indicated that CCHRC doesn't have a problem enforcing it.) Items previously raised in the minutes: • Form Ad Hoc Committee for Website Issues and community needs, development of written plan, policies and proposed timeline. (Inclusive of Committee and community members) • Follow-up with Ms. Teniente on CDBG funded projects. • Resolution —Building Code Ordinance Revision • TDD Equipment update • Ad Hoc Committee Reports • Sub-Committee Reports Adj ournment Ms. Padilla made a motion to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Soza. A vote was taken and passed. The meeting adjourned at approximately 5:55 p. Pr Ld• �W ///07 /101 Crytal Lyons, Cha person Date Minutes Approved 9