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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Committee For Persons With Disabilities - 05/05/2004 Committee for Persia with Disabilities Page 1 of 6 Summary Minutes for May 5, 2004 Meeting called to order by the Chair, Ms. Fallwell-Stover. Roll Call: Quorum Meeting at Roll Call. Ms. FailweiiStover; Mr. Sayles, fvis. Saenz, Mr. Watson and Ms. Lyons. Staff present: Joseph Harney and Wanese Butler. Also at this meeting were June Shultz, Acting Human Relations Compliance Officer, and Kevin Stowers, Assistant Engineering Director. Absent Committee Members: Ms. Padilla and Mr. Torno. Absent Staff Members: Mr. Ramos and Mr. Sosa; (Linda Hodge attended on behalf of Mr. Ondrias.) Excused Absences: There were no requests to excuse absences. II. Approval of Minutes: Amendment by Ms. Saenz to correct that she was present (arrived late not absent). Seconded by Mr. Sayles. The minutes were approved as amended. III. Presentations / Public Comments: A. Engineering Services Update on Arena Parking and McGee Beach - Mr. Stowers gave the Committee an overview of the accessibility for these areas: 1. Convention Center/Arena Parking — The parking lot will meet code with accessible parking, sidewalk and ramp. But since the existing accessible spaces are clustered toward the Bayfront Center, there will additional accessible spaces when the parking lot is restriped after the construction is done, and that these additional spaces will meet ADA requirements. Mr. Stowers also mentioned that parking at adjacent facilities in that they would look at additional parking at the upcoming baseball stadium and port project, which would also meet accessibility requirements. 2. McGee Beach — Mr. Stowers reported that work at the McGee Beach would include access onto the beach through an executed order on the seawall project to provide an accessible ramp down onto the beach. This change order includes maintenance access and pedestrian access. Mr. Stowers had an aerial map of the shoreline/downtown area and showed the vicinity of the McGee beach project at end by the Holiday Inn. However upon Ms. Fallwell-Stover's question for actual location, it was uncertain as to specifically where the actual accessible ramp will be. In regards to Mr. Watson's question about constructing a hard surface, Mr. Stowers indicated not in that there would be an additional sand layer (smooth/flatten) so that people could have access to McGee Beach. [Mr. Eloy Soza arrived — approximately 3:50 PM] SCANNED Committee for Pers with Disabilities 4 Page 2 of 6 Summary Minutes for May 5, 2004 There was general discussion on access once at the beach, and that this was a good first step in getting access to the beach. Ms. Faliwell- Stover asked about any beach accessible wheelchairs. Ms. Butler stated that the Human Relations Department has obtained these in the past, upon request. Ms. Lyons asked about assurance that the ramp would be accessible. Mr. Stowers stated that it should be as the ramp is submitted to TDLR in the design by Shiner-Mosley. [Robert Flores arrived; Linda Hodge returned — approximately 3:55 PM] In response to Ms. Saenz's question on where would be the accessible parking for McGee Beach, Mr. Stowers responded that parking would be done as the last part of the seawall project. These parking spaces would be parallel on the street north of Powers Street, approximately every 150-200 feet apart. The contract is just starting, but the Committee can see examples of these types of accessible parking spaces on Shoreline now, with a recess in the curb and an accessible ramp. Ms. Fallwell-Stover asked about the number of required accessible parking spaces at the arena and also seawall. Mr. Stowers responded that they would meet accessible requirements, but that at the arena area, they would provide additional spaces based on capacity. Ms. Lyon asked for a schematic of the parking lot spaces to provide exact information rather than in general terms. She also mentioned that the accessible parking at the Airport was incorrect. MOTION: Ms. Lyons made a motion to recommend that the Committee receive appropriate and specific information on accessible parking. Seconded by Mr. Soza. Discussion ensued with Mr. Watson's question of whether there would be any multi-level parking. Mr. Stowers responded that the parking would be one level. The motion passed by Committee vote. Upon Mr. Flores' inquiry, Mr. Stowers indicated that there would be accessibility for vehicles and pedestrians at McGee Beach, per TDLR requirements, and reiterated that there would be an accessible ramp. Regarding the Bayfront, Ms. Fallwell-Stover expressed a concern about getting Mr. Marc Soliz to come before the Committee, in also stating that an anticipated presentation from him has been on the agenda for some time. Ms. Hodge suggested Ms. Rose's assistance. Ms. Butler reminded the Committee that the arena's Director of Operations had agreed to come before the Committee. Ms. Lyons asked that whomever attends is one who can answer questions. IWO Committee for Persks with Disabilities Page 3 of 6 Summary Minutes for May 5, 2004 Discussion ensued regarding that this presentation is to be on the arena's operations, programs and policies for accessibility issues. Ms. Fallwell-Stover added physical access parameters in that where does the architect's responsibility end. She also mentioned that Mr, Torno had a concern about how accessible seating would be handled. Ms. Lyons expressed a concern of knowing where the arena's General Manager stands and his knowledge of ADA and accessibility issues. As a matter of record per Ms. Fallwell-Stover, there was also an issue for people with hearing impairments in that the Del Mar College court- reporting students had submitted a letter. Ms. Fallwell-Stover also commented that dialogue should start before "things are set in stone" so to speak. Mr. Flores added the issue of escalators and elevators. MOTION: Ms. Saenz moved that a subcommittee be established to meet with Marc Soliz, SMG General Manager, to tour and ask questions. [SMG is managing the new arena]. Seconded by Mr. Flores. The subcommittee would consist of Mr. Watson, Ms. Lyons, Ms. Saenz and Mr. Flores. The motion passed by Committee vote. IV. Chair's Report Ms. Fallwell-Stover reported on the success of the 2004 Barbara Jordan Media Awards, and she thanked everyone for their assistance. In following up to the recent presentation from the Crime Victims Services, their recommended awareness videos had been ordered with one arriving in time for today's meeting. The Committee viewed the first video entitled, Servicing Crime Victims with Disabilities — The Time is Now". The Committee had requested to screen the videos before using in public venues. After viewing this first video, Mr. Watson asked about working with the Police Department. The second video however is on back order. V. Committee Reports A. Outreach/Awareness Subcommittee —Accessibility Guide No report at this time. B. Legislative Subcommittee 1. Non-discrimination Ordinance — Ms. Fallwell-Stover remarked that there was discussion last month about continuing outreach. She also talked about sharing information and asked for feedback on how the Committee could assist with outreach. Both Ms. Lyons and Ms. Saenz indicated that they each had ideas on this but as "New Business" discussion. 2. Title I Comprehensive Self Evaluation — Human Resources Department Ms. Fallwell-Stover indicated that some Committee members still have concerns, one being the City's job descriptions and inaccessibility. The committee would like information indicating when this comprehensive self-evaluation of Title 1 will occur. Ms. Fallwell-Stover commented that a timeline is pending from Human Committee for Pers with Disabilities Page 4 of 6 Summary Minutes for May 5, 2004 Resources per her request last month, and that the Committee wants to know when to expect information from Human Resources. Ms. Lyons mentioned that she had asked as well the prior month. Ms. Saenz suggested having a meeting to explore opportunities to employ more people with disabilities in the City, look a job descriptions. MOTION: Ms. Lyons moved that the CFPWD send a letter to the City Manager and Assistant City Manager outlining what we have requested and that we have not received it yet regarding the Human Resources' Title 1 Comprehensive Self Evaluation. Seconded by Mr. Soza. The Motion passed by Committee vote. Ms. Lyons suggested that the Chair, Ms. Fallwell-Stover, draft the letter and forward through the Human Relations Department. Ms. Fallwell-Stover agreed to draft this letter and add the questions raised. During more general discussion, Mr. Watson mentioned surveys on employment practices and other common 'Best Practices" on employing persons with disabilities and employment opportunities. He agreed to research this for the Committee. VI. Old Business A. Accessible Parking Brochure TABLED for action. Ms. Lyons will work with Ms. Shultz on final format, then email to Mr. Flores. At next meeting the committee will have an opportunity to review. Mr. Soza mentioned Moore Plaza and that HEB is providing bright yellow warnings to vehicles parking in accessible spaces without having a disability placard. B. 2004 Barbara Jordan Awards Ms. Lyons had photos of the event displayed on a computer for Committee Members to view during discussion. She reported on the BJA expenses and paying for the photographer and 269 plates for the awards dinner, and 240 people actually attended. Ms. Lyons also reported on contributor/sponsor checks have been coming in, with some outstanding from Whataburger, Linebarger law firm, CUFBCC, City of Corpus Christi Gas and Human Relations departments. Other expenses include $7,237 to the Ortiz Center, $375 to the band and $100 in postage. There was discussion about thank you notes and information on letters to the editor. Ms. Lyons will also speak with Dennis Bourell about an article in the Caller-Times newspaper. Ms. Lyons commented that she thought the event was very good. Ms. Fallwell-Stover indicated that the subcommittee will meet one more time for a debriefing, final items and thank you letters. Committee for Pers with Disabilities Page 5 of 6 Summary Minutes for May 5, 2004 There was brief discussion on accessibility experienced at the Ortiz Center, and concerns that the restroom counters were not accessible. C. Accessible Route — Convention Center/Arena (previously discussed earlier in the meeting) Mr. Watson agreed to see what the City of Austin is doing regarding bus passes for people with disabilities. He reported speaking with Beth Vidaurri at the RTA on a proposed "Freedom Pass' by the RTA, but that it would be approximately 3-4 months to implement. He suggested that with possible input to the RTA, this could be extended as far as further reducing out-of-pocket expense to riders with disabilities. VII. New Business A. Ms. Lyons began discussion on the arts program — Warren Theater at TX A&M Corpus Christi. In researching with the Disability Research Law Association, there is a "Very Special Arts" 1-day training. She distributed draft proposal information for interest in the Committee taking this on as a project. Ms. Fallwell-Stover expressed feelings of having a positive momentum following the Barbara Jordan Media Awards and the non- discrimination ordinance, and to keep the momentum going. Ms. Saenz asked about the possibility of charging a fee for this training to generate funding. During this discussion, the Committee considered obtaining 5013C non-profit status for registration fees and training but a need to check with the City's Legal Department. MOTION: Mr. Soza moved that the Committee seeks 5013C status. Seconded by Ms. Sayles and Ms. Lyons. The Motion passed by Committee vote. More general discussed ensued. MOTION: Ms. Lyons moved for the Committee to host an event possibly within July/August 2004 time frame for "Very Special Arts' or "Beyond Access Blue" and informally brainstorming by email. Seconded by Ms. Saenz. The motion passed by Committee vote. D. Mr. Watson began discussion of a scholarship request form from the YWCA that he reported is only $5, $10 or $15 per month instead of the regular amount of $40/month. Mr. Soza mentioned that the YMCA may also have this available. E. Ms. Saenz began discussion on trying to get the training for the Committee and taking field trips/tours. She suggested "Best Practices Field Trips" - Austin and Laredo. Ms. Butler let the Committee know that the City does have a small budget for boards and commissions and training. The Committee continued discussions of developing a training Committee for Pers with Disabilities Page 6 of 6 Summary Minutes for May 5, 2004 list, but would prioritize, beginning with the City of Laredo's arena regarding accessibility. Ms. Hodge had mentioned earlier that the managing company of SMG, for the Corpus Christi arena under construction, also ma ages the existing Laredo arena. Ms. Saenz asked if the City could pay the Committee Members for this possible trip to Laredo. Ms. Butler agreed to check into the matter. The Committee discussed a possible day trip with four members to drive to Laredo, or possibly the Lyons family would fly the group. Ms. Lyons suggested at least make contact with "BEST", an advocacy group in Laredo for feedback on the Laredo arena. F. Mr. Flores asked about the City's EEOC conference. Ms. Butler informed that the annual conference is scheduled for July 16, 2004. VIII. Administrator's Report No overview report at this time due to computer problems and not being able to generate the printouts for review. Staff will provide with next month's meeting information packet. Ms. Hodge provided copies of a draft flyer for Committee input regarding plans for inclusion awareness. The Committee commented upon review of the draft. Ms. Lyons was concerned about the "awards to businesses" listed as an event, in that she felt the Park & Recreation Department, versus the level of credibility of the Texas Governor's Committee, could not effectively accomplish the promotion, criteria and evaluation process before July 2004 as proposed. Another area of concern was the item listed as "Adult Inclusion Dance" and questioned whether this was a segregated event. Through general discussion, Committee members want to make sure to have active participation for the promotion of true integration and not just promote "special" things. The Committee would try to attend the 5/12th lunchtime meeting and share further comments with Ms. Padilla or Mr. Soza, and/or even Ms. Hodge by email. Ms. Fallwell-Stover and Ms. Butler reminded the Committee that Eloy Soza, Toni Padilla and Shae Hayles are members of this inclusion awareness planning committee. IX. Committee Concerns/Requests for Agenda Items A. Regarding where the Committee stands, a Position Statement on Inclusion for Recreation will be developed by Ms. Lyons and Mr. Flores and the Committee Members are to give them ideas. B. Mr. Watson commented on people with disabilities getting discounts and/or passes for national parks, and that he would check into it. X. Announcements CBAD graduation and convention on Saturday, 5/8/04. Xl. Adjournment With nothing further, the meeting of 5/5/04 was adjourned at approximately 6:00 PM.