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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Committee For Persons With Disabilities - 11/05/2003 SUMMARY MINUTES REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING COMMITTEE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES November 5, 2003 CALL TO ORDER: The meeting called to order by Ms. Crystal Lyons, Committee Chairperson. General Discussion prior to meeting starting, while waiting for members to arrive. (Lack of quorum.) Speak-Up Texas - Similar to Relay Texas. Jo Naylor is a local representative. They have received a grant for the next two years. Discussion about 211 - Public Information. Mr. Ramos mentioned that Margie Rose was at a meeting and would attempt to come to this meeting by approximately 4:00 p.m. CFPWD Members were informed of the letter sent to Debra Valenzuela regarding non-attendance of meetings. ATTENDANCE: The roll was called by Ms. Shultz: Present Absent Ms. Crystal Lyons Ms. Linda Fallwell-Stover Mr. Roberto M. Flores * Mr. Billy R. Sayles Ms. Toni Padilla 1 Vacancy Ms. Mary J. Saenz * Mr. Eloy Soza Mr. Glen Ray Torno City Staff in attendance: David Ramos, Wanese Butler and June Shultz of Human Relations; Andrew Quittner for Joseph Harney of Legal; and David Ondrias or Park and Recreation. City Staff Absent: Art Sosa of Developmental Services. The Committee initially did not have a quorum. Proceeded with informal meeting, until quorum arrived. * Arrived late, but present. Public present: None APPROVAL OF MINUTES: October 1, 2003 Minutes - Pending, due to lack of quorum. PRESENTATIONS / PUBLIC COMMENTS: None. CHAIR'S REPORT: The Chair discussed Speak-Up Texas. She also provided a handout - a copy of Ft. Lauderdale's Public Notice (Broward County), to share as an example. (It was from approximately 8 or 9 years ago.) Ms. Padilla indicated that it reflected cross disabilities - that was nice. Mr. Flores arrived late, establishing a quorum. Mr. Torno gave a report on his meeting with Robert Fatovic. (There was a physical review of plans - denoted at approximately 1/2 size.) The meeting focused on the Arena. A concern was raised about the number of spaces and the distance of accessible parking and lack of sidewalks. Mr. Torno sent a letter on site development, but they have not received a response yet. The interior connects with the Convention Center. They did a good job. There are a varied number of restrooms and adequate number of accessible restrooms. Equipment, Training, Event, Back Area Rooms, all are accessible. Telephones and drinking fountains are accessible. Ms. Saenz arrived late. Mezzanine Area and boxes are accessible. There was a tally sheeting including showing seating arrangements. Typical Seating - front to back. They didn't know distance between the rows, but it is typical. There is some accessibility at all levels and all pricing levels. Platforms are portable, but not very easily done - once in place, will tend to remain until change need arises. Percentage formula issue - still need to discuss this. Mr. Flores asked about restriction of the use of the elevator? Who can use it. Ms. Lyons indicated that it would probably be a management decision. A concern was raised about the switchbacks - looks like it was an after thought. 2 Mr. Torno will keep the plans. Mr. Ramos will follow-up site issues Mr. 1�r Torno indicated. Upon Ms. Padilla's question on consideration of text messaging boards at this point, Mr. Torno indicated that a management decision should be made soon. Discussion ensued about a possible presentation by the new arena director, Mr. Marc Solis, at the Committee's December 2003 monthly meeting. Human Relations will follow-up with Mr. Solis to make arrangements. Mr. Torno also mentioned that electrical issues need to be addressed. After Mr. Torno's presentation on the arena plans, the Committee returned to the agenda since it now had a quorum with the arrivals of Ms. Saenz and Mr. Flores. Approval of Minutes: With four amendments, the Committee approved the minutes for October 1, 2003. Motioned by Mr. Soza. Seconded by Ms. Saenz. Vote passed. �r► Excused Absences: Motion by Ms. Soza to excuse Ms. Padilla's absences was seconded by Mr. Torno. Vote passed. Chair Report/Remarks: 1. Vacancy - Discussion ensued on encouraging applicants to fill Ms. Valenzuela's vacancy. Committee Reports: A. Outreach/Awareness Subcommittee: Accessibility Guide - Upon reviewing the guide from the City of San Diego, CA, the Chair encouraged the Committee to consider how to meet similar information needs for this community. B. Legislative Subcommittee: Proposed Non-Discrimination Ordinance 1. Human Relations staff provided a draft list of public comments, from association/organization meetings, for the Committee's review. 2. The Chair received a response letter from the City Manager per the Chair's inquiry for clarification on the estimated implementation costs v under the Park and Recreation Department. The Chair shared the 3 letter with the Committee. The Chair remarked that although wording rr is from the ADA, the City's legal review and interpretation is that the ordinance would require more than the ADA. The Chair asked Staff what the plan is and how to proceed between now and the Second Reading of the proposed ordinance by the City Council. Mr. Ramos let the Committee know that City management had given no further direction at this time, and that changes to the proposed ordinance would have to come from the Committee. The Chair also asked about the opportunity to work with the City and to address the "unknowns" per the City Council meeting and presentation from July 22, 2003. Mr. Ramos indicated that there are no objections to participating in the Committee's special meeting, and can review the tape of that City Council meeting to further prepare and address Council concerns other than the Council's directives. Ms. Lyons also asked about how the City would address other Council questions, such as hiring persons with disabilities. Mr. Ramos indicated that this would be addressed as a Title I issue. The Chair asked for the Committee's thoughts. Ms. Padilla asked about who the draft summary of public comments was distributed to beyond the Committee. Ms. Lyons mentioned that there were "omissions" to the draft summary of public comments and that Ms. Fallwell-Stover had some additional comments and changes. Mr. Ramos let the Committee know that additions could be made to the summary. Mr. Flores asked about the City Manager's acceptance. The Chair indicated that a few meetings are necessary to see where the ordinance needs to be tweaked or to include additional language. Members of the Committee agreed to meet on 12/10/03 and 12/17/03, as special meetings of the Committee. In anticipation of these special meetings, discussion ensued between the Committee and Staff in reviewing the tape to consider the unknowns ****************HERE. 4 1 COMMITTEE REPORTS: A. Outreach/Awareness Sub-Committee: No report at this time. 1. There was discussion of a new video. Mr. Ramos mentioned his meeting with Ted Nelson and Mike Barrera on the bid process. He stated that they are on target on this project. B. Legislative Sub-Committee: 1. Non-Discrimination Ordinance: Mr. Ramos indicated that on Friday, October 3, 2003, at 2:00 p.m., the Council of Governments (COG) would be providing a resolution in support of the proposed ordinance. They may have some questions for whoever may want to attend. We've held sixteen (16) meetings this month and several are scheduled for October 2003. Ms. Butler is setting up those meetings that were proposed at last month's meeting. Ms. Fallwell-Stover asked if the staff had added RTA's Advisory Committee to the list, who are on the calendar for October 16, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. for a presentation? The Chair asked Mr. Ramos if he was going to Austin on October 17, 2003 as the ADA Coordinator? Mr. Ramos discussed the option of taking a van and others from the CFPWD (as long as it wasn't a quorum). 5 The Chair had some prepared in writing questions for Park and �.► Recreation. Ms. Lyons asked for response to the questions in order for the responses to help the Committee better understand how those items and figures were arrived at. The Chair asked them to please refer back to the sections that require each of the services/items listed. She also asked that they please explain how the requirements of these sections differ from Title II. Ms. Fallwell-Stover left. Mr. Ondrias indicated that he did not have a response at this time, as he was not part of the original discussion in development of the information. He is looking at the information in the terms of if it should be within the Transition Plan or if this is a new item due to the development and implementation of the proposed non-discrimination ordinance. He is looking at what is listed and if there are any items not listed. He is looking at costs. The costs may go up or down. Items may be changed to a need under the Transition Plan or may be placed under the proposed ordinance. He is trying to sort out what the elements are. He will be asking for Mr. Quittner and Mr. Harney's assistance in �,. identifying the section requirements that has driven the information submitted or to be submitted. Mr. Ondrias indicated that he is trying to get the information in a very graphic and specific format and to make it understandable. The Chair indicated that the dollar amount is important because the Council is asking about it and being criticized for it. There was discussion about what they would like. People are attacking members of the CFPWD, not just the Mayor and Council. He needs to explain how the costs are there. Mr. Ondrias indicated that it was going to be interpretive, but basically he would have it on paper and understandable. The Chair indicated she recognized the difficulty of the undertaking, but it is clearer now. However, the next meeting is the last chance for the Committee to discuss it and take action. If they could receive it before the next meeting, it would be helpful. Mr. Sayles left. 6 Ms. Saenz indicated they shouldn't shoot the messenger, but those numbers were presented and sent to the Council. They asked for a response to the questions but they do not have one now. So can he give the CFPWD a date when the information would be ready? General discussion ensued. The Chair asked if he could have the information to them within the next two weeks? This would allow time to review and discuss it. Mr. Ondrias indicated that if he could have the help of Mr. Ramos and Mr. Harney, they should be able to finish it by next Friday. He needs to have the interaction by October 17th, 2003, as he will be out of town the week of October 20`h. (So will Mr. Ramos.) It was determined that they would attempt to have it finished by Tuesday, October 14th, 2003 and get it to the CFPWD members. There was further discussion. The Chair asked if there were any questions? The Chair indicated that one thing she wanted to mention was that throughout the community presentations, for the most part it, the reception has been positive, to very positive, except for one group. RTA may do a resolution in support of it as well. COG will be providing their resolution this Friday. Following the meeting with *ow Nueces County representatives, it is bringing about awareness at the County. Mr. Ondrias left. 2. The Chair asked Mr. Ramos about the request for a survey, via the City Manager, in response to concerns raised following Ms. Garcia's presentation to the Committee? Mr. Ramos indicated that they were suppose to meet tomorrow and discuss it. Ms. Lyons had brought her copy of the Title I - Employment Supplement (Self-Evaluation Guide). She loaned her copy to Mr. Ramos, until he can order another. OLD BUSINESS: A. Parking Brochure: Mr. Ramos sent a copy of the draft to the Corpus Christi Police Department and to Municipal Court. The Police Department indicated that there were no changes recommended and it looked good to them. Judge Tamez has not provided a response yet. Ms. Lyons mentioned sharing some of the new changes in bulletins - `lo„ Ms. Butler can make copies of the laws (i.e.: a fine has been developed if you park in the striped zone). We'll send the information out via e-mail. It is also harder to pirate the accessibility parking placards. There was discussion about the next steps to finalize the brochure. We want to determine the fold and fit in natural breaks in the text information so it flows properly. Ms. Lyons and Ms. Shultz will work on the prototype. A motion was made to accept the text and to move forward with the final draft for printing (once Ms. Lyons and Ms. Shultz has finished the layout) by Mr. Soza and was seconded by Mr. Torno. A vote was taken and the motion passed. We are now authorized to move forward with the final draft for printing. B. House Bill on $1 Surcharge Fee on Utility Bills for ADA: Pending. C. BJA 2004 Awards: The Chair held a planning meeting (over lunch) on September 22, 2003, at Boatners. A timeline was established, along with a list of potential sponsors. No vote has been held for the date yet. They need to determine a location, accessibility needs, parking, etc. They asked Mr. Ramos for information on a possible checklist for necessary areas. Several dates are on hold. A list of items has been forwarded to some of the planners. Two weeks from now, they rr will try to set the date. There was discussion if this should be a "Black Tie" event or "Business Casual", it is leaning toward the "Business Casual". They are looking at catering, possible bands, forming a "Setting Up" Committee, ticket sales, and what to do if they make a profit. Mr. Ramos offered to check into tickets and invitations being printed by the City. There was discussion if we could get a better deal going through use of City property. However, there was a concern that they are not certain if the bus stop near the Convention Center is accessible. There was discussion about possible use of the Museum, Auditorium/Convention Center, Art Museum, etc. They are checking to see if Rudy Trevino would be willing to be the M.C. They are looking into a photographer and discussed printing options, such as raised embossing on items and programs. The City can only do black, white and teal. Once we have a sample, the City Department can pay for a negative plate by a professional, then print the items in house. There is fund raising to do. Additionally, CFPWD members were asked to pass along any potential sponsor names. They obtained budget information and know what it cost in San Antonio, TX. The location and food will be key - they can 8 develop a wish list for other items. They want media exposure and the Governor's Committee will help also. D. Transition Plan Update: They will be going back to the City Council in mid November. Mr. Ramos will provide information at the next meeting (same information and format) for the report to be given, including information such as: who spent monies, design, monies in the Human Relations Department's ADA Budget and the hiring of consultants, etc. E. Arena Accessibility: Mr. Torno has spoken with some people working on the project. They want him to meet with the Engineer. Mr. Ramos mentioned an up-coming walk through. Mr. Torno indicated he is scheduled to meet with the Engineer tomorrow. A manager (Mr. Soliz) has been hired. He will be included in the walk through. Mr. Torno said that Raymond has been cooperating with him. General discussion on the need for the Arena to be "User Friendly". Mr. Flores asked what is being looked at, i.e.: restrooms? Mr. Torno indicated he would be included in the walk through and raise issues on "User Friendly" concerns. Mr. Flores asked about family "unisex" restrooms - one is needed. General discussion about how builders are now trying to include them in new construction items. Mr. Torno indicated he can ask, but it is not a "minimum" requirement. Mr. Torno will report back to the CFPWD and if appropriate, he will ask them to come and provide a presentation. Ms. Lyons asked if he could look to see if there are any "red flags" and to jot those items down before the project gets too far along. Mr. Flores also asked about fixed seating - distance between chairs and rows, lack of leg room. Further discussion ensued. F. Fire Marshall Inquiry - Mr. Harney provided an update on the inquiry. The Fire Code was revised on September 19, 2003. Chapter 10 deals with "Means of Egress". The Fire Department is in charge of enforcing it. An Inspector had made the original inquiry. There were ADA and Fire Code elements. Ms. Lyons asked if this is an area for education and outreach for designers, builders, and new construction? Mr. Harney indicated yes and to pass along violation information. Mr. Soza left. 9 Mr. Torno touched upon responsibilities of builders versus site `.• development. There was discussion about items outside of the door, then no where to go. Accessible routes are always required. There was also discussion on areas of refuge. NEW BUSINESS: None. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT: Mr. Ramos provided a review of the Monthly Report for September 2003. There have been an extensive amount of Solid Waste Services Accommodation Requests in response to implementation of the third phase of the new automated system and large 96 gallon trash cans. Mr. Ramos reviewed the number of Non-Discrimination Ordinance - Organization/ Association meetings that have been provided. There were three "Cause" findings on ADA Cases. Since the cases were closed, Mr. Ramos was able to discuss a key component of the cases, in that an employer cannot ask an employee to waive their rights in order to get a retirement package. The three cases were deferred to the EEOC-SADO for work as class action cases. r.. CONCERNS/AGENDA ITEMS: None were raised, other than noted as above. Motion to adjourn made by acclamation. The meeting was adjourned at 6:15 P.M. Minutes Approved: Crystal Lyons, Committee Chairperson Date io