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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Committee For Persons With Disabilities - 12/05/2001 • MINUTES - QUORUM MEETING COMMITTEE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES December 5, 2001 Committee Members - Present Committee Members - Absent Chairperson: Ms. Crystal Lyons Ms. Sandra Cabazos Mr. Roberto M. Flores Ms. Toni Padilla Ms. Mary J. Saenz Ms. Linda Fallwell-Stover Mr. Eloy Soza Mr. Glen Ray Tomo CITY STAFF: (ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT1 Building Official: Park & Recreation Director: Mr. Art Sosa Mr. Tony Cisneros Human Relations Administrator: Legal Advisor: Mr. L. David Ramos, Director Mr. Joseph Harney Human Relations Management Assistant: Ms. June Shultz ATTENDANCE — Roll Call — Absences: Sandra Cabazos (advance notice provided), Toni Padilla (advance notice provided), and Linda Fallwell-Stover (advance notice provided). Audience: Linda Hodge and Judy Telge APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: Minutes of November 7, 2001 were reviewed. Motion to approve minutes made by Eloy, and seconded by Ray Tomo. Vote taken and the minutes were approved. PUBLIC COMMENTS/PRESENTATIONS: Linda Hodge - RE: CBAY (Coastal Bend Alliance For Youth) SCANNED • She is the president of CBAY. Last summer the Park and Recreation cut their budget. One area cut was the youth adaptive program. It was cut because of numbers and lack of money. She wanted to tell parents of other opportunities, but as she looked into it, she found that there weren't other opportunities. As a result, in approximately March or April she and approximately fifteen (15) other concerned persons in the community got together to discuss and address the matter. The goal was to try to come up with a list of activities for youth. There were several issues that arose as a result of the meeting: 1) The need for training — they could do that, and in fact did hold some awareness training. 2) The need for a survey to see what's out there? The Caller Times had conducted a survey, but it didn't really meet the community needs. They did research on having Dr. Rhoads conduct a survey, but it was too expensive for their limited budget. They have put that off for now. However, Ms. Hodge distributed a tentative draft survey that would be issued for parents/guardians to complete. There is little money for this project. An assistant/secretary has indicated that she would assist compile the data and do the data entry to enable them to have a print out of survey results. She asked for the Committee Members input. They would like suggestions from a different viewpoint. Ms. Hodge also discussed looking at this as, "What If' — look at alternate program to latch key, with staff and equipment, possibly working with Hospitals, looking at where we can go from here. Ms. Lyons discussed a concern about the survey being too long. Ms. Hodge indicated that they hadn't really look at the survey yet, but they can focus on the important questions. They want to obtain information on what's out there, ages of youth who would participate, availability. Ms. Lyons mentioned the need that someone in City should be an expert in this area. There was general discussion about interest in multi- purpose programs. It was mentioned about the CDBG proposals being due on February 2002, if there were any ideas on a project that would fall under ADA within their guidelines. CBAY is basically a collaborative effort of interested persons from various entities throughout the community. If you have comments/questions/information you would like to contribute regarding the survey, you may fax them to Ms. Hodge at 880-3806. Ms. Hodge also indicated anyone could participate with CBAY. On December 14, 2001, there will be a luncheon at CCISD; they will hold a meeting with Dr. Chavez. There was then a shift from CBAY to Ms. Hodge's role with the City Park and Recreation Department. Ms. Lyons asked Ms. Hodge if Park and 2 Recreation has done their ADA self-evaluation? Ms. Hodge indicated that it has been started, but has not been completed. Ms. Lyons mentioned that she would be speaking to the Park and Recreation Board next week. There was discussion about the Park and Recreation Board. Additionally, the Park and Recreation Department have planned a management retreat program. They also sent staff members to three (3) other cities (Austin, San Antonio, and Laredo) to look at trends and see what they are doing. We have not caught up with our city's growth trends. Mr. Flores questioned about being progressive, what is being done for special needs and what do they have? There was discussion about their efforts to meet the Department's Mission Statement, in that services are for "all children", but presently, it doesn't meet it. Ms. Hodge indicated that Mr. Ramos came to a staff meeting and discussed ADA requirements. Ms. Lyons mentioned that quite possibly cutting the adaptive program might have been illegal. Ms. Hodge spoke of the need for training, the need for employees with the appropriate level of knowledge, lack of facilities with sufficient space. Ms. Lyons discuss the need for programs to not be adaptive, but programs of integration and inclusion. Ms. Hodge indicated the need for grant monies and the need to get the City Council's ear. Ms. Lyons indicated that we need to get Park and Recreation's ear first. Ms. Hodge discussed accommodation requirements and that she is working on them. Ms. Lyons expressed in interest in the policy verbiage on hygiene issues. She asked for a copy of Latchkey's information. Ms. Hodge indicated that they try to keep the fee down and that there are a limited number of scholarships. Presently, they work at a 1 to 20 ratio, for all ages of kids (state guidelines). They have to consider liability issues, staffing, and facilities. The Latchkey Program is subsidized by the revenue, which the program generates — they must work within the limits of the money the program brings in. It is a zero budget in essence. Ms. Saenz asked if her understanding is correct - that they need someone to ask for grant Monies and they need someone to ask for things? Ms. Hodge indicated that the Latchkey Program is a subsidized program — they charge a fee and all revenue is spent only on the Latchkey program. There is a concern now about lack of recreation centers and teen centers — the need to get out there. They have a limited aquatics program. There is nothing available for middle school age youth. They have cut all teen programs. Ms. Saenz questioned, then there is concern that there is an insufficient budget for youth, let along for special needs persons? Ms. Hodge discussed the need for training, the need for programs to be enhanced, adequate staff. The community is like lobbyist, and they need this. The community has pull with the City Council. Ms. Shultz asked if CBAY had considered utilizing 3 the School Districts Special Education Programs to survey parents/guardians through the schools? Ms. Hodge indicated she has spoken with CCISD. Ms. Lyons suggested that Ms. Saenz might want to help. There was further discussion about the Committee for Persons with Disabilities and the Park and Recreation Board working together to have a stronger voice with the City Council. Mr. Ramos mentioned that once the transition forms are completed, we would have a clearer picture. We won't say "Adaptive Program", but do it as an ADA accommodation issue. Ms. Lyons stated the law says "integration". Ms. Hodge discussed how pretty much the rest of the month of December was gone. Ms. Saenz discussed how everyone (referring to the youth with special needs) want to join a group. Offer an opportunity to them to join in. Also, comment was also made that some parents/guardians may be disabled themselves, therefore the survey might be difficult to complete — need to look at alternate methods for response or conducting the survey. CHAIR'S REPORT: Ms. Lyons took the Committee's resolution regarding the support of the Building Code Ordinance revision to the Mayor. He made a copy and asked if several of the Committee Members could come next Tuesday. There was discussion on appropriate time to come — Mr. Harney indicated that next week's agenda is a big agenda, approximately 50 items. Ms. Lyons and Mr. Soza will come at approximately 4:30 p.m. Others may want to come by 5:30 p.m. Need to be present during the Public Comments section. Ms. Lyons wants to read it and have a show of support from Committee Members. Return to Presentations: Ms. Judy Telge provided a picture to the Committee of the Chair, and the former Secretary of State and Ms Telge at the Arbuckle Award gathering. She also mentioned attending "Mobility Training" in Washington. Representatives from some twenty-two (22) communities attended. She indicated that Corpus Christi has a good reputation for addressing transportation issues for persons with disabilities and low income. 4 COMMITTEE REPORTS: Policy Development Sub-Committee Report: Ray Tonto indicated that there was no report at this time. Ms. Lyons suggested they try to aim for completion of pending items for February 2002. Outreach Sub-Committee Report: Mr. Soza indicated that there is no report at this time. However, he did find some resources for people fust language. Mr. Harney indicated that he had nineteen (19) hits in the City's Code of Ordinances. Most were in Transportation, Traffic, Utilities, and Municipal Court and there was one for Human Relations. Mr. Ramos discussed HUD's requirement to use certain language to be substantially equivalent. When asked about how soon this issue could be address, Mr. Harney indicated that this type of change occurs when there is "housecleaning" by the Departments. We just need to take it to the City Manager or Department Head to authorize and then he could proceed to work on it. Ms. Lyons asked Mr. Harney if he could write her a memorandum and outline the information he located. Mr. Harney agreed to do so. Ms. Lyons discussed obtaining copies of the local ordinances and federal laws and to set up file copies. Mr. Ramos asked Mr. Harney to let him know if they need to approach the City Manager about the revisions. Education Sub-Committee Report: No report at this time. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT: Mr. Ramos indicated he has attended a meeting at the Airport. There were some staff concerns about FAA requirements. They couldn't have any cars parked within three hundred (300) feet. Additionally, they had to do away with a bay (two parking lots). Making accessible parking further away on the third section. They need to come up with some options. They are looking at the next six (6) months on short term planning. Presently they are using a golf cart to help transport people, due to the walking distance. The concern is that Abel Alonzo objected to this, as you can't put a wheelchair on it. There was discussion that if they are spending the money, then they need to purchase one appropriate. Mr. Flores discussed a past example of some equipment. Ms. Lyons suggested they find one that could accommodate a manual wheelchair. Either don't do it at all or get one that accommodates persons with special needs. It is an investment. Mr. 5 Cisneros discussed this as an accommodation issue. They could purchase adaptive equipment (add on equipment) to modify the existing equipment or purchase one that can handle the needs. Mr. Ramos was going to call Dallas, to see what they are doing to address the issue. Ms. Saenz questioned why not having at least one that could provide an accommodation? Mr. Torno also indicated that he had heard that there were going to be other issues that impact the situation at the Airport. This likely will not be a temporary issue. They are planning on moving the rental cars, getting a transit hutch, etc. Mr. Cisneros recommended giving the options to the Airport. Mr. Ramos indicated he would — he also mentioned this suggestion like that at the University — Canopy Lights are various locations that could be turned on to signal the need for transportation assistance. Mr. Ramos gave a report on enforcement — he reviewed Human Relations Office monthly statistics. The Public Accommodation Case that was referred to DOJ for enforcement has received a recommendation for mediation. They are presently attempting to schedule it. Regarding ADA issues, the majority were related to accommodation requests regarding the new trash containers for Solid Waste Services. The Department received thirty (30) ADA calls this month. Last month they received sixty-two (62). He had one (1) formal complaint in November, regarding a restaurant. He had five (5) technical assistance requests — all different. Mr. Sosa's Office is referring persons to Human Relations when they have questions arise. The Department received one (1) Fair Housing case (Basis: Disability / Issue: Eviction). The Department continues to work on a weekly basis with the HUD Regional District Office. Additionally, there were twenty (20) ADA related inquiries. Mr. Ramos indicated that with regard to the ADA Transition Plan, various City Departments have been calling him for assistance. He has met with the Convention Center, Municipal Court, Museum and Park and Recreation. He has other meetings scheduled to meet with the Library, Street Department and Solid Waste Services. He may need to spend more time on it. He will be sending out an e-mail tomorrow to follow-up on the Self-Evaluations. Ms. Lyons mentioned that Council Member Colmenero has asked for an update before the public forum. Mr. Ramos then asked the Committee input on where to hold the public forum(s). Ms. Lyons suggested possibly do at least two — one in the daytime and one at night. She discussed the use of local High Schools. Mr. Cisneros indicated that sometimes they used elementary schools and middle schools. He gave an example of the public 6 meetings regarding the bond election issue. Need to start planning this for around April. They discussed having this on the agenda for the next meeting in January. Mr. Ramos indicated he would also discuss this further with the Core Group at the next meeting. There was a suggestion of meetings to be held at Flour Bluff, Tuloso/Midway, CCISD — not just one and to look at the possibility of some Senior Centers. Mr. Ramos discussed a meeting he held with CCISD Superintendent. The Chair for the Human Relations Commission also attended. The topic of the meeting was "Special Education" concerns. Mr. Ramos explained he had received some complaints and he and Mr. Hinojosa went to CCISD to discuss them. Dr. Chavez indicated he would look into it. He will be sending some information to Mr. Ramos about their policies and procedures. Dr. Chavez also indicated he would talk with the Principals. Mr. Ramos will be sending Dr. Chavez copies of the City Ordinances, which reflect the authority the Commission has in address issues of this nature. Mr. Ramos briefly discussed the issues — there were complaints of student harassment and inappropriate actions regarding the ARD/IEP process. Mr. Ramos said Dr. Chavez said he'd have the parents contacted. He was concerned about nothing being done. One parent was new to the arena — you can easily be steered in the wrong direction. This is a learning process. Mr. Ramos is to go and meet with Dr. Chavez again. He's to provide information on the process. Fortunately, the parent has some advocates who came forward and provided some information to assist. Ms. Lyons asked to speak with Mr. Ramos about information for the next meeting. OLD BUSINESS: a. "People First" Language — Code of Ordinances Revision. (Mr. Harney provided Legal Department input.) b. Non-Discrimination Ordinance for persons with disabilities. (Tabled.) c. Formation of a new Ad Hoc Committee — Website Issues (Tabled.) d. Follow-up on Attendance Notification Letter/ Committee Vacancy. (The City Council has it on next week's agenda to make an appointment.) NEW BUSINESS: a. Formation of a new Ad Hoc Committee — Steering Committee to develop the criteria for an Accessibility Guide. Ms. Lyons would like to schedule a meeting for December 18th. The guide would include information on 7 accessible locations—such as restaurants, recreation centers, etc. b. Public Forum — Need to begin planning or compiling suggestions for discussion at next month's meeting. c. PSA's — Sandra Cabazos will continue to work on this project. d. Possible postponement of the January 2"d Meeting. There was general discussion and it was concurred upon to postpone the next monthly meeting to second Wednesday of the Month for the January meeting. Therefore, next month's meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 9th. The meeting location will be announced at a later date, as it is uncertain if the Council Chambers Committee Room will be available on that date. Committee Concerns/Items for Next Agenda: • Concern: Ms. Shultz mentioned that the Committee would need to submit information for their Annual Report, which is due on January 15, 2002. There was general discussion about what should be included in the Annual Report. Mr. Ramos mentioned the need to include the background history of the Committee. Mr. Cisneros indicated that most Boards or Commissions submit an approximate two (2) page document that includes information on achievements, provide a status update and indicate what's coming down the lane. Ms. Lyons mentioned future goals. Mr. Ramos mentioned the Transition Plan. Ms. Lyons also mentioned Ordinance changes. • Concern: Ms. Shultz also mentioned the CDBG Proposal deadline of February 2002. Mr. Ramos mentioned that Daniel Gallegos had asked to provide a presentation to the Committee. He will try to schedule it for next month's meeting. It will also be counted towards Housing and Community Development's Public Meeting. Ms. Saenz asked for the Department to fax her copies of information on the CDBG Proposal process (just the background information — not the actual forms). She provided her fax number. • Information: Ms. Lyons will be giving a presentation to the Park and Recreation Board on the second Wednesday of the Month at 5:00 p.m. in the Basement Training Room at City Hall. • Information: Ms. Saenz informed the Committee that the Texas Rehabilitation Training Conference will be held October 2002 at the Omni. s Items previously raised in the minutes: • Steering Committee Lunch — December 18`". (Tentatively to be held at the Subway downtown. Ms. Saenz will get back with Ms. Lyons. Those interested need to contact Ms. Lyons for the location and time. The following persons were noted as interested — Ms. Lyons, Ms. Saenz, Mr. Soza, staff support — Mr. Ramos and Ms. Shultz. Other possible suggested persons to mention it to Ms. Telge, Ms. Cabazos, Belinda Calderon, Sandra (an acquaintance of Ms. Lyons) and Kay Carroll. Ms. Lyons suggested speaking to other persons you know within the community. • Follow-up with Ms. Teniente on CDBG funded projects. • TDD Equipment update • Ad Hoc Committee Reports • Form Ad Hoc Committee for Website Issues and community needs, development of written plan, policies and proposed timeline. (Inclusive of Committee and community members) • Sub-Committee Reports • Composition of Committee/Recruitment issue. • Community Relationships — Requests and/or endorsements (Legal input). • Outreach — "People First" • Presentations to City Departments (Schedule) • Advertisements • "People First" Language — Ordinance Revision and Legal Department Research • "Non-Discrimination" Ordinance. • Ted Nelson —PSA Project. • Susan Cable/Ted Nelson — Public Forum re: ADA Transition Plan (Planning Phase). Adjournment Mr. Soza made a motion to adjourn, which was seconded by Ms. Saenz. A vote was taken and passed. The meeting adjourned at approximately 5:46 p Crys .l Lyons, C airperson Date Minutes Approved 9