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New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC)Full Council MeetingSeptember 16, 2016Troy Hilton Garden Inn, Sage Ballroom9:00 am to 3:30 pmAGENDA1. Introduction. 9:00 am A.Roll call – Sue Hoger, Chair.B. Open forum.2. Review and approval of Full Council Meeting minutes. 9:20 amA.Review and approval of draft minutes for the April 15, 2016 and June 17, 2016 Full Council Meetings.3. Executive Director’s report – Brad Williams. 9:30 amA.Significant issues update/2016 major goals and deliverables (April-June2016).B.NYSILC Quarterly Contract Report (April-June 2016) – See separatelyattached SILC Monitoring Document).4. Treasurer’s Report – Roger Benn. 9:45 amA.Quarterly Fiscal Report (April-June 2016).B.NYSILC 2017 Annual Budget (October 2016-September 2017).C.Finance Committee minutes (August 11, 2016).5. Executive Committee Report 10:00 amA.Executive Committee meeting minutes (June 10, 2016, June 23, 2016 Executive and Finance Committee, July 15, 2016, August 12, 2016).B.Discussion and action related to vice chair vacancy.C.Discussion about Inclusive Workforce Alliance (IWA) meeting August 10, 2016.6. Committee & Subcommittee Reports (Continued after lunch presentation). 10:30 am(Minutes have been provided for review. Reports should focus on new activities. Questions can be related to the reports or minutes. Updates will be provided by committees that haven’t been recently active.)A. ACCES-VR SRC report – Chad Underwood (March 1-2, 2016).ACCES-VR SRC liaison to replace Chad by start of 2017.B.ACCES-VR report – Bob Gumson/ACCES-VR.C.NYSCB report – Brian Daniels/NYSCB.Note response by NYSCB regarding ex officio appointment.D.NYSCB SRC report – Cliff Perez/Bob Gumson (March 16-17, 2016).7. Youth/Young Adult Forum. 11:00 amA. Participants at recent events supported by Pat Figueroa sponsorships.Discussion of experiences.How have sponsorships helped?How can the sponsorships be improved?8. Lunch. 12:00 pm9. Facilitated Discussion on Two Issues: 1:15 pmOpportunities to expand youth transition and funding. Consider 5th core service.See NYSILC letter to ACCES-VR.See response letter from ACCES-VRReview Draft SILC Standards & Indicators (S&I’s).See attached draft S&I’s and comments sent to ACL.10. Committee & Subcommittee Reports (Continued). 2:15 pm(Minutes have been provided for review. Reports should focus on new activities. Questions can be related to the reports or minutes. Updates will be provided by committees that haven’t been recently active.)E. SPIL Committee – Sue Hoger & Brett Eisenberg.See ACL Approval Letter for the NY SPIL 2017-2019 dated 9/1/2016.F. Consumer Satisfaction – Brad Williams (July 6, 2016, Aug 9, 2016).H. Public Policy – Shelley Klein (June 6, 2016).SSAN Apr-June 2016 report - (See separately attached SILC Monitoring Document).I. Youth Leadership – Zach Garafalo.J. Emergency Preparedness – Sue Ruff (July 19, 2016).K. Database Workgroup – Roger Benn (Aug 4, 2016).L. Recruitment – Brad Williams (July 18, 2016, Aug 8 & 9, 2016).M. Outreach – Roger Benn (June 1, 2016).1. CBILCO Quarterly Reports – (See separately attached SILC Monitoring Document).a. AIM Corning youth with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).b. ATI Cortland youth with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).c. BILS Bronx healthy living with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).d. NCCI Plattsburgh health care and wellness for people with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).e. PILS Putnam healthy living with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).f. RCIL Revised Utica minorities with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).g. RILC Rockland youth with disabilities (Y2 Jan-Mar 2016).h. RILC Rockland youth with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).i. STIC Binghamton veterans with disabilities (Y2, Jan-Mar 2016).j. STIC Binghamton veterans with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).k. WILC White Plains healthy living with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016).l. WNYIL Buffalo youth with disabilities (Y2, Apr-Jun 2016). 11. Adjourn. 3:30 pmNYSILC 2016 Summer News Briefs: 2015 Annual Report: . Review and approval of Full Council Meeting minutes, April 15 and June 17, 2016DRAFTNew York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC)Full Council MeetingApril 15, 2016Troy Hilton Garden Inn, Sage Ballroom9:00 AM – 4:00 PMCouncil Members Present: Denise DiNoto, Helen Fang, Zach Garafalo, Keith Gurgui, Sue Hoger (Chair), Shelley Klein, Lindsay Miller, Clifton Perez, Edith Prentiss, Sue Ruff, Ann Scherff, Chad Underwood, Doug Usiak, Bob Gumson, Robert Meek, Roger Benn, Luis Gutierrez, Marc Rosen, Martin Abril.Present by Phone:Absent: Brett Eisenberg, George Hoehmann, Brian Daniels, Joe Bravo, Henry Nixon, Carla Lewis-IrizarryNYSILC Staff Present: Brad Williams, Patty BlackGuests: Lindsi WickertReview and Approval NY Draft SPIL 2017 – 2019 – Brad WilliamsTechnical edits were made in March, based on feedback from the public comment period. The Federal CIL directors then reviewed and approved the draft SPIL at a meeting on March 14, 2016 at CDCI in Albany, resulting in the current draft being considered today. Brad gave an explanation of the SPIL review and approval process, followed by the protocol to be used for each section. A summary was provided, leading to a discussion, questions, and action. Part I, Assurances: Brad noted that the assurances were being updated by ACL. They were awaiting OMB approval. This section will need to be replaced with the new section when it comes in.Motion to Approve: Edith PrentissSeconded: Bob MeekMotion approved unanimouslyPart II, Narrative: Brad WilliamsBrad provided a brief summaries for each section.A. Section 1: Goals, Objectives and ActivitiesMotion to Approve: Bob MeekSecond: Lindsay MillerMotion Approved unanimouslyB. Section 2: Scope, Extent, and Arrangements of ServicesMotion to Approve: Marc RosenSecond: Edith PrentissMotion approved unanimouslyC. Section 3: Design for the Statewide Network of Centers.Discussion about this section was interrupted to talk over approving the document as a whole instead of going item by item or section by section. The merits of reading through all of the section notes were seriously weighed and discussed. Brad had shared different draft versions of the SPIL with the council. Members had this version of the draft SPIL two weeks in advance of the meeting. It was felt that there had been plenty of time to “digest” the content of the plan. A motion was introduced to read through all of Brad’s notes, and then to approve the entire draft SPIL at the end, rather than approving section by section. Motion to approve the plan as a whole after a summary read through: Edith PrentissSecond: Doug UsiakMotion approved unanimouslyHelen suggested some existing webinar courses that help with understanding the SILC and the SPIL processes, particularly for new council members. Brad continued by reading narrative summaries of the sections.D. Section 4: Designated State UnitTransitioning to the Designated State Entity. They have the administrative duties and act as the fiscal agent.E. Section 5: Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC).Functions and duties of SILC.NYSILC will exercise its right to do the three new authorities; coordinate statewide services for people with disabilities, conduct resource development, and do leadership development/civic engagement. $361,000 in part B funds for the SILC and $64,000 in innovation and expansion funds from the DSE.F. Section 6: Service Provider Requirements.Response by the DSE and the SILC in terms of support relating to the state and requirements for staffing, fiscal control, fund accounting, record keeping, reporting, access, IL plans, and CAP information. G. Section 7: Evaluation--Alan Krieger helped in this area. We have developed some best practices. Specific criteria identifies how we do our CIL consumer satisfaction survey, statewide needs assessment, SPIL monitoring and SPIL evaluation.Overall approval of the draft SPIL 2017-2019 v3.Sue raised the subject of how MWBEs (minority and women business enterprises) are being addressed in the SPIL. It was discussed that the paragraph regarding MWBEs should be updated. She suggested the possibility of getting an exemption so that NYSILC dollars can go to people with disabilities as a minority and not be required to support other minorities. Brad will do a technical edit and change the wording of the paragraph regarding MWBE in section 2.2A. This would be a permanent, non-personnel exemption for all SPIL related RFPs and related contracts, and define the parameters of those exempt non-personnel. Doug questioned whether or not the possibility of the lack of approval and the holding-up of funds is worth the risk of asking for this exemption. He would like a clear, conceptual understanding of what the council is asking for in the SPIL. Brad clarified by saying that the permanent exemption to be requested will allow NYSILC to support people with disabilities through the RFPs. Brad assured that it does not impact Part C funds, only if it delays the SPIL being signed.Motion to approve NYS draft SPIL 2017-2019 v.3: Shelley KleinSecond: Marc RosenAbstain: Bob Meek, Ann Scherff, Keith GurguiMotion passed.Minutes Motion to approve the minutes from March 2016 council meeting: Shelley KleinSeconded: Marc RosenMotion passed unanimouslyExecutive Director’s Report – Brad WilliamsBrad Williams worked with Ann McDaniel from the West Virginia SILC to present at SILC Congress. Cornell and the Northeast ADA asked Brad to do a webinar on grassroots community organizing, which he provided on March 16th. The annual 704 report for 2015 has been finished with State Plan partners. ACL had to get their management information system online in March to be able to upload the 704 report. Brad wants to catch up with employment first activities at the June meeting. The quarterly contract report is in the SILC monitoring document.Bob raised concerns regarding the Inclusive Workforce Alliance. He has seen material come through at ACCES-VR regarding their position on section 5-11 in the WIOA, which gives guidance on the segregated work settings and work centers. Language in the act states that schools may not use providers that direct students to segregated work settings. The Inclusive Workforce Alliance and its partners are working very hard to allow schools to use those providers for other services that are not sheltered workshops. Bob’s concern is that it still allows for the youth that don’t initially make use of community workforce opportunities to end up in a sheltered workshop. Bob wants to make sure that the council is not missing an opportunity to prevent the use of sheltered work. Brad brought up the use of Kindles for council members, reminding current members of the updates needed to the Kindle through Amazon, and to contact him if they need assistance. Some questions were raised about whether or not the Kindle software is compatible for those who use Apple products. Brad noted a letter sent to ACCES-VR regarding the inconsistencies in the two SSAN opportunities posted as RFPs, and the “understood” MWBE non-personnel exemption. He also took the time to thank ACCES for the FTE funds supplementing the SILC resource plan. Council members discussed the issue and felt that the SED MWBE office was over-reaching in its implementation. Perhaps it was time for an article 78. Time will tell. Everyone will continue to monitor the issue.Treasurer’s Report – Roger BennThe Quarterly Fiscal Report from October—December 2015 was reviewed. Roger stated that the profit margin was very slim, and that there was very little to talk about as everyone has had the notes on the quarterly fiscal report. He spoke to the audit being very standard, and the auditors were pleased with their ability to move forward. The auditor was pleased with the checks and balances that are in place. Brad added that the minutes of the March 4th finance committee meeting with the auditor in the packet.Executive Committee Report – Brad WilliamsBrad discussed what the auditor recommended in the situation of a check being large enough that it requires a second signature. It was decided that the amount should be increased for those checks instead of having to mail them to an officer for a second signature. This was discussed in the Executive Committee, but according to the bylaws, this change needs a 2/3 vote of the council to be made final. The recommended change states that any check of unbudgeted funds in an amount over $5000.00 will require a double signature. Edith raised the question of electronic banking, and Brad answered that the auditor does not recommend electronic banking or electronic banking statement review. The auditor likes review of hard copies. Motion to increase the amount of unbudgeted funds for which a check will require a second signature to an amount over $5000: Roger BennSecond: March RosenMotion passed unanimously.NYSILC CommitteesWith 7 new members there are chair vacancies in the following committees: Recruitment, Development, Database Work Group, and Consumer Satisfaction. Brad reviewed each of these committees and the needs of the groups. Sue Hoger will appoint the chair for each committee, and council members should speak with her or with Brad if they are interested. Committee members are also needed. It was also suggested that some council members may want to add a committee or switch committees. Several members volunteered for committees. Brad will reflect the changes on the NYSILC committee document.Lindsay Miller expressed interest in having NYSILC collaborate with NYAIL. NYAIL currently has active policy committees on housing and transportation, and rather than duplicating work, there could possibly be more collaboration. She suggested that Cliff, as chair of the NYAIL transportation committee, could communicate with the council on common issues. Brad suggested a discussion on the subject. Chad suggested that the SILC collaborate with public policy in general, and that it would be more effective if there were more collaboration. Brad countered that the SILC still needs a policy committee because the council needs to be able to take action on any issues that are not mutual. Doug expanded on the discussion by suggesting that in committees with dual chairs, one from NYAIL and one from SILC, there wouldn’t be any accusation of one organization pushing the other one. Cliff stated he would be willing to do that for transportation. Sue added that many of the committees say that a majority must be chosen from NYSILC membership, but the emergency preparedness committee has 12 members and only two are from NYSILC. This needs to be adjusted, and she’d like to find out if anyone is interested in becoming a part of the emergency preparedness committee. Brad said that NYAIL and NYSILC should continue to work in collaboration, particularly with transportation and housing. Chad suggested that the number of committees has become prohibitive, and that more collaboration can only benefit NYSILC. Edith opposed to having public policy moved to executive committee. When some committees moved to NYAIL, as a council member she felt cut off from the information. Brad believes that the climate was quite different at that time. Chad clarified that he was not suggesting getting rid of public policy and moving it to the executive committee. He believes that collaboration is needed. Lindsey Miller offered to have the NYAIL public policy staff put together a list of all of the policy committees and issues they are working on now. She said that anyone is welcome to join, and at least one NYSILC member is on each of their policy committees. Committee and Subcommittee ReportsACCES-VR SRC – ChadChad reviewed the March SRC meeting where there was a new member orientation. The committee reviewed 2016 ACCES-VR state rehabilitation council common priorities. The focus of ACCES-VR for the last few years has been the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA), and the culture shift behind the provision of rehabilitation services, identifying how to adapt to changes, and move forward. In the Combined State Plan, a report was received from the disability employment initiative. There is a sixth round of funding that is putting one or two staff people in One Stops in one or two counties. A report was received from Ray Pierce from ACCES-VR regarding the core rehab services contract, and he anticipates an RFP to come out in May. A report was received from the advisory committee on post-secondary education for people with disabilities. A report was received from the CUNY-Lead and Project Reach, which relates to resources and education on autism. The committee meets again on June 8 & 9. Chad reminded the council that a new liaison for ACCES-VR SRC will be needed, as he is terming off at the end of this year. Sue asked Chad about the TASC, as it is not yet accessible to the blind. McGraw Hill sold its data to another corporation, and she is wondering if there are any further updates on that issue. Chad said it was still being worked on. Sue also brought up the subject of training for Fair Hearing Officers. There has been evidence that these officers too frequently don’t understand the law, don’t know the regulation, and that their decisions violate the law. Chad responded that the ACCES-VR hearing officers are regulated, and the training process is thoroughly reviewed. Ann is wondering what is being done to work in collaboration with those under OPWDD to get employment within the community. Chad said that there is a member of OPWDD on the State Rehabilitation Council, so that voice is heard.LunchACCES-VR – BobThe Commission for the Blind is working on the accessibility for the TASC equivalency test, and it’s probably a year away from becoming accessible. In WIOA news, there is a plan between labor, ACCES, Adult Education, OTDA, and other workforce training and education programs in the state that was submitted as a joint state plan for the first time ever on April 1st. RSA and ODEP are looking at the plan. In the plan, there are some common data points across all programs having to do with employment. Background funding is being negotiated because they are required to contribute to the One Stops. ACCES has scheduled forums with ILCs, one in NYC and one in Syracuse. The NYSILC members are welcome to come. On the status of RFPs—both are out, SED has responded to the Q&A, and Bob is working to have them both in on time. Core Rehabilitation Services for WIOA—progress has slowed due to contractual requirements. The time frame for the RFP on CRS has been extended due to delays. In the CRS under WIOA, there is a requirement to have a new service for self-advocacy to teach people with disabilities about their role as an employee with a disability. ACCES is also working on an RFP for a youth employment initiative to prepare youth ages 14-24 for engaging in VR and employment. ILCs are one group that are likely to apply to provide services. Bob is particularly interested in an RFP for peer mentoring youth for careers and employment, not necessarily connected to ACCES-VR consumers. The Peer Integration Project RFP was selected and awarded. Development Committee – Brad WilliamsThe last development meeting was in March. The proposal is almost done, and NYSILC is talking to Liberteks on building a website for the Leadership Development Civic Engagement program. The tech writers are working on webinars.Consumer Satisfaction – Brad WilliamsThe consumer satisfaction survey is coming up, and at the last meeting the questions were discussed and built off of previous survey questions. The committee worked on the readability of the questions. The committee revised the Likert scale to 1-5, and had to come up with a weighted scale for the 85% benchmark. Progress is ongoing. They also completed the SPIL evaluation for their objective.Public Policy – Shelley and Brad: The new needs assessment served as the basis for the meeting agenda. The draft was discussed. A second version draft was created and is being considered at the end of the month. Committee members provided excellent input on the new 3-year agenda and format. Shelley requested that new council members consider joining the public policy committee.Youth Leadership – Zach GarafaloZach directed everyone’s attention to Melanie, Lexa, and Kelly to thank them for their help on the youth leadership committee. Lindsi Wickert was also thanked for her work and diligence. The counsel has been looking at what other centers do across the country. The committee developed a strategic three-year plan, which is a draft document. The plan looks to develop marketing and outreach materials. Zach suggested that the next NYAIL conference in 2017 has opportunities for young people to participate. The committee is exploring crowdsourcing and other fundraising opportunities to cover the cost of attending the NCIL Conference in July. They are also looking to other disability rights youth groups, encouraging youth participation in the leadership of centers, and to serve on boards of directors. This committee also has a targeted survey to find out about the needs of disabled young people across New York.Emergency Preparedness – Sue RuffThe emergency preparedness committee has been very active. There are about 12 members from all over NY, excluding the North Country. Dave Whalen had been approached by the DDPC to submit a proposal to do Emergency Management Access and Functional Needs Training in NYS (a grant which he was awarded). Jim Flemming from the committee has been active throughout the state to develop Core Advisory Groups (CAGs), and arrange webinars and opportunities for people in different counties to learn about emergency management work for disabled people. There was an overnight shelter exercise in New Jersey. In Broome County there are 11 people from the ILC who are now certified shelter volunteers. Other people are encouraged to approach the Red Cross for this training. The committee would like some changes made to the NYSILC website that will provide additional information and links. Patty wants people to be aware of some resistance in certain parts of the state. A mass medication drill was held, and some counties did not do well with inviting and involving the disabled population. The state held a training in Oriskany, where 52 counties participated. The committee encourages everyone to be involved with OEM, and those who have the resources are asked to consider offering help in the form of walkers, wheelchairs, and other assistive technology for disaster shelters. The committee took part in an active shooter drill in Broome County. Participation in these exercises is vital for giving first responders the necessary training to accommodate special needs in an emergency situation.Keith asked Sue for examples of the resistance she has encountered in emergency preparedness training. Sue mentioned that disabled people do not want to be segregated in these trainings or events, and in one example disabled people were segregated to a tent so that their wheel chairs or other accommodations wouldn’t “clutter up” the indoor space. There is much work to be done toward educating emergency managers in the needs of the disabled community.Edith commented on the high rise evacuation plan in NYC. She believes that very little progress has been made for the disabled population regarding emergency management and evacuation. Database – Chad Underwood and Brad WilliamsThe database workgroup has had two meeting since the council last met. Chad has decided to step aside as chair and resign from the committee. Brad reviewed the proposals that have been presented to the database workgroup, and questions have been drafted for the vendors in order to get more detail on their proposals. There are currently 3 proposals being considered. Chad added that he is concerned about being able to make good progress on the database, and that if it will cost $500,000, ways of making that happen should be considered. Brad responded that all perspectives need to be considered, and the committee also must do further research before determining the best course of action. Brad answered a question from Edith regarding system compatibility. Roger agreed to be chair of the database workgroup.Recruitment – Brad WilliamsMartin has agreed to be chair of recruitment. The NYSILC website has an interactive calendar for committee meetings, and council members can check this for the dates of their upcoming meetings. There will be four vacancies in 2017, and a couple other considerations for the ex officio members: ACCES-VR and the Commission for the Blind. Outreach – Brad WilliamsOutreach did its SPIL evaluation and discussed SPIL monitoring related to the capacity building grants (CBILCOs). The committee made a decision related to the Pat Figueroa sponsorships. Applicants will be asked to volunteer at their local center for 15 hours. The ADAPT Youth Summit will be in Rochester, NY this year. This is a limited conference (not everyone gets to attend). The council is considering how to best support the event. The Cortland Center had an excellent needs assessment, and those who have the chance should look at it.Motion to adjourn council meeting: Bob MeekSecond: Denise DiNotoCouncil Meeting AdjournedDRAFTNew York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC)Full Council MeetingJune 17, 2016Troy Hilton Garden Inn, Sage Ballroom9:00 AM – 4:00 PMCouncil Members Present: Denise DiNoto, Helen Fang, Zach Garafalo, Keith Gurgui, Sue Hoger (Chair), Shelley Klein, Carla Lewis-Irizarry, Lindsay Miller, Henry Nixon, Clifton Perez, Edith Prentiss, Sue Ruff, Ann Scherff, Chad Underwood, Doug Usiak, Joe Bravo, Bob Gumson (ACCES-VR).Present by Phone: Robert Meek, Martin Abril, Roger BennAbsent: Brett Eisenberg, Luis Gutierrez, George Hoehmann, Marc Rosen, Brian DanielsNYSILC Staff Present: Brad WilliamsOpen ForumChad Underwood reminded members of the need to identify someone to replace him on the ACCES-VR State Rehabilitation Council. This is his last year. He has made some suggestions to coordinate this with Lawanda Cook, Membership Committee Chair for the SRC. Minutes Brad Williams explained that due to personnel changes at NYSILC and an extremely busy schedule, the April council minutes were never typed up for review. Draft minutes will be available for council members to review at the September meeting.Executive Director’s Report – Brad WilliamsBrad Williams brought up the following SILC consulting opportunities for discussion: One day at the NCIL Conference July 28th for a SILC directors’ presentation on “Lessons Learned” from State Plan formulation and development, two webinars—The State Plan 3-year Cycle, and SPIL Authorities; as well as APRIL peer mentoring with the Michigan SILC, all of which will bring compensation to NYSILC. Patty Black-Cate is leaving NYSILC. Interviews for her position are in process. Leadership Development Civic Engagement Program—talking with Liberteks regarding this project to choose technology with a reasonable cost related to an interactive website with comprehensive tool set. There were no questions regarding the NYSILC Quarterly Contract Report. Brad raised a new issue regarding section 3 of the Personnel Policies. He brought a motion to strike the last sentence of 3.2, disconnecting health/dental benefits from the introductory period, and to bring the introductory period to 3 months to align with the health/dental benefits. The matter was debated. All approved to delete section 3.2 of the personnel policy. In a separate vote to switch the introduction period to three months (14) yes (1) abstentions (Edith Prentiss), and (1) no (Sue Ruff).Motion to approve 3 month introductory period: Chad UnderwoodSecond: Lindsay MillerMotion CarriesTreasurer’s Report – Roger BennQuarterly Fiscal Report January—March 2016, Revenues exceeded expenditures for the quarter. Total revenue under-expended by 11% to date. ACCES-VR contract under-expended by 13%, which matches up to the salary line item expense under-expended by 12%. This is due to the part-time tech writer position that needs to shift to the contractual services line item for the last quarter in a budget modification. SILC meeting expenses are low because no council meetings took place during the last quarter, but two will occur in the following quarter. Total project costs are low, but will catch up due to the NCIL Conference. Chad moved to accept the Quarterly Fiscal Report and the Finance Committee minutes. Doug seconded the motion. All approved.Executive Committee Report – Joe BravoExecutive Committee meeting minutes in the packet. The council is recruiting members for 2017. Joe asked members to encourage new members. Edith asked for parameters on the four seats available. Brad mentioned that there is no council member from the North Country. Four members being replaced, two organizations serving people with disabilities, one advocate, and one CIL representative. NYSILC Committee reminder: let chairs know if you’d like to join any committees. Inclusive Workforce Alliance kick off meeting was in March. Disability Stakeholder Forum for Employment First would like IL participation. Any interested committee members should let Brad know. Sue asked to reference page 11 regarding employment first goals, and spoke to the various challenges for employment and high school graduation, and increasing access to transition information for high school students. Chad remarked that ACCES-VR is behind the times with employment first, even though it’s what they do, and he continues to advocate for change in this area.Presentation and Review of 2015 NYSILC SPIL Evaluation Report -- Alan Krieger, Krieger Solutions, LLP. Also, see Excel NYSILC 2015 Questionnaire Results. Review of draft document: discussion, questions, action. Alan Krieger of Krieger Solutions, LLP, the council’s SPIL evaluator, presented the draft 2015 NYSILC SPIL Evaluation Report to the full council. He went over the highlights of the report which was shared in advance with the meeting materials. The evaluation process is now well established for the council, with identified committees conducting evaluations on objectives in the months leading up to the development of the draft report by Alan.Alan discussed the shift to impact based result measurements as opposed to activities measured. This would result in seeing measurable impact from activities, with each new SPIL becoming better at being oriented toward outcome based objectives. 60% of the objectives were met. Objectives met—2 of 9 objectives had a 33% success rate for objectives, 7 of 9 were substantially met. Of 47 activity targets—29 were met or exceeded. The council is a functioning, effective group. Young adult sponsorship—moving to getting the young adults to become more active, for the value-added objective. Youth Leadership subcommittee has become very active, and may discuss expanding. Alan stated his assertion that the council is responsible for the subcontractors, because the council chooses the subcontractors. If contractors aren’t meeting targets, the project needs to be reevaluated. Council members must be actively involved in committees. Committee has defined “system change” allowing that to become measurable. There was discussion regarding projects that take longer than the scope of a 3 year funding cycle. Chad moved to look into and investigate a future concept of extending projects beyond the 3 year SPIL cycle, possibly to 5 years. Doug seconded, all approved. Chad moved to accept the report and take the word “draft” off of the report. Doug seconded, all approved. Report will be posted on the website.Motion to accept report and remove “draft”: Chad UnderwoodSecond: Doug UsiakMotion carried unanimouslyThe council moved into a facilitated discussion about the SILC’s monitoring duty, Uniform Grant Guidance, and need for council to develop protocols to monitor SPIL objectives for projects/contracts. The various problems with both the monitoring and accountability needed for projects and contracts, and allowing room for innovation and growth were discussed. Programs are monitored with quarterly reports, and giving programs both positive and negative feedback on activity was suggested. The role of the council in monitoring goals, objectives and accountability was debated and discussed. Protocols for communication and action will need to be mittee and Subcommittee ReportsACCES-VR – Chad UnderwoodWorkforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) final regulations are expected out by the end of July. NYS ACCES-VR will send representatives to Washington, DC on August 9 to review, train, and answer questions. Transition and youth services initiative—there is now one transition and youth services senior vocational rehabilitation counselor in each district office. Core goal is to engage individuals that are under 25 years old. 51% of all new applicants fit that category. There are three community employment specialists in each districts to provide transition support to school districts. Federal law and regulation are the primary driving factor for ACCES-VR. Core rehabilitation services 2.0 has been delayed due to senior level turnover, changes to service delivery, and many other factors. ACCES-VR has a 3 year ad to target campaign, business, youth, and the general public. Chad mentioned a lack of focus on the supply side—to educate the businesses and get them up to speed. LunchPresentation/Discussion: Mental Health Association New York State (MHANYS), Glenn Liebman, CEO. Glenn spoke of the mission of MHANYS, mainly advocacy. He spoke broadly about policies and legislation, bearing in mind that the public mental health system is broken. He stressed the importance of advocating for the greater good of the community, and changing the atmosphere of mental health in NYS. MHANYS achieved the mental health tax checkoff to allow people to give on their tax returns. This is a symbolic victory for mental health public awareness, and the first one in the country. MHANYS campaigns for mental health education in schools, and this should be part of the health class curriculum. Sue asked a question about having disability history into NYS curriculum. She mentioned that the NYS Special Education Taskforce has done work on anxiety and stress. She mentioned the great need for mental health education and services in schools, and thanked Glenn for his work. It was stated that there is no statewide curriculum. MHA is creating a curriculum to be a resource for schools. Ann mentioned that in her county they are looking into developing a first responder curriculum for people with IDD in dealing with grief issues. Glenn brought up the issues of stigma and the importance of advocacy. Glenn discussed Mental Health First Aid—an 8 hour training—mental health 101 on how to respond to a mental health crisis until they can get the professional help they need. MHA has 6 staff trained on this and 60 state wide. There is discussion on requiring this for teacher certification. MHA budget—system is underfunded, but with Medicaid managed care, things that aren’t usually Medicaid billable such as peer support, family engagement, supported employment, supported education, will become Medicaid billable services. MHA continues to advocate for community based services with local assistance dollars with the division of budged, due to the needs of those who are not part of Medicaid. Glenn addressed workforce issues—people dramatically underpaid, and not for profits are challenged to meet the demands of the new minimum wage. Glenn spoke about housing issues for the mental health community to make housing more accessible and available. Sue spoke of the problem of those with mental health issues ending up housed in jails and prisons and not receiving the treatment they need, and the state’s willingness to spend the money on prison, but not on therapeutic solutions. Bob mentioned building a more sustained partnership with Glenn and his organization, and learning from the Mental Health First Aid program to roll out IL history and philosophy education program. Zach brought the issue of the Albany Lead Program to the discussion, and asked Glenn about law enforcement training. Ann discussed the Mobile Crisis team in Genesee County. The council thanked Glenn for his presentation.SubcommitteesACCES-VR –Bob GumsonUpstate/downstate forums—20 IL Centers in the two areas attended. Very good dialogues. Status of RFPs, SSAN coordination is about to leave SED and go to comptroller’s office. All projects have been reviewed, award letters will go out within the next month. Peer integration project in VR office starting July 1. Bob hopes this is a good way to improve local relations. Possibly could be expanded to every district office in the state. NYSILC single source contract—the comptroller’s office continues to have questions regarding the single source request. Youth employment transition RFP—there will be a general youth employment initiative RFP from ACCES-VR, open-competitive and geared toward schools. District offices have received copies of updated IL brochure with all contact information. Every new consumer of VR gets the brochure and understand where their local ILC is and what they do. Bob suggests that if local councils come to agreements with the district office, follow it up with the manager with an email and the supervisors of the district office to ensure accountability. The suggestion was made to encourage ACCES to consider funding IL centers to work with schools to help them arrange for work experience in the communities. Doug raised the question of ACCES-VR meeting with IL representatives a year ago. Peer mentoring whereby peer mentors and coordinators would be in every center using a standardized curriculum and connect them with youth who were interested in work. This is currently in “ACCES Limbo.”Motion was made by Doug that NYSILC requests revisiting peer mentoring model geared toward IL centers for transition with ACCES-VR. Seconded by Joe, passed unanimously. Motion: Doug UsiakSecond: Joe BravoMotion: Passed unanimouslyIt was discussed that the TASC GED is not provided to students who are blind in audio or braille. State Ed must provide accommodations. SPIL Committee – Brad Williams: Everything was uploaded and sent to ACL. We received an error message. An “after the fact” email was sent out with instructions. After making corrections, Brad will resubmit. Consumer Satisfaction –Brad WilliamsThe group is looking to simplify the methodology. Effort will be made to use Survey Monkey for data collection with the Excel spreadsheet to calculate the total score based on the new weighted scale. Brad mentioned getting a temp worker to work on consumer satisfaction survey materials.Public Policy – Brad Williams for ShelleyThe three-year public policy agenda is now on the NYSILC website. The committee will focus on a post- election voting survey for people with disabilities. We will need to do another voter survey, decide what questions we want to ask, do this in house, or employ a pollster. Brad mentioned leaning toward hiring a pollster. Edith bought up the issue of the AAPD rev-up, and Brad answered that getting voters to the poll is the job of the local ILC. Youth Leadership – Zach GarafaloThis is a biweekly meeting of nine people across that state that are active participants. Fundraising for NCIL, sending two members for a portion of the conference, and will meet up with Chad’s group. This helped the committee learn fundraising skills. One person on the youth leadership committee went to the University of Youth Power. They were able to communicate with SANY’s youth advocacy program and exchange information. Survey is going out to solicit input from youth service professionals. Lindsi Wickert is connecting with others who work with transition youths, creating a network of staff members.Emergency Preparedness – Sue RuffDave Whalen is focusing on his grant from the DDPC. Issues on OEM DOH mass medication drill in Oriskany. Sue received a call from the emergency manager from the DOH in Steuben County wanting to know where she could find more information regarding the disability issues regarding emergency management. She suggested Corning AIM and connect her to Rene and Jim Flemming from FEMA. Flemming is hoping to come to the Southern Tier in September to Chemung and Broome counties. Onondaga County doesn’t want to share its 20 year old emergency plan.Database – Brad WilliamsThe group narrowed choices to two vendors, and had a meeting with ACCES-VR on June 15th to talk through what needs to be done with database/interface project. Brad is writing an email to the ACCES-VR/full team to decide where to go next to move the project forward.Recruitment – Brad WilliamsSolicitation for new council members was discussed because Brett, Shelley, and Chad will be leaving the council, with the possibility of one more vacancy. There are 7 current complete applications. Outreach – Brad WilliamsThe new Excel spreadsheet is updated for 2016 year, and will track measurable indicators for project progress. The CBILCO quarterly reports are in the SILC Monitoring Document. Motion to Adjourn3. Executive Director’s reportA.Significant issues update/2016 major goals and deliverables (April-June2016).SILC Consulting: SILC-Net one-day collaboration at the NCIL Conference on 7/28 “Lessons Learned SPIL under WIOA,” pre-recorded webinars on the “3-year SPIL Cycle” and “SPIL Authorities.”Administrative Assistant and Program Coordinator Positions: Welcome to Erin Dwyer (Administrative Assistant) and Amy Krebs (Program Coordinator).My Blind Spot Website Access Review: The final report from My Blind Spot on the website access and usability states that the overall website is great. The tutorial was very good except for the timeline and test which will need further work.NYSILC 2015 Annual Report: Completed and distributed, posted to NYSILC website, Goals/Deliverables for 2016SPIL Development/Approval 2017-2019 – Deb Cotter, ACL liaison for New York notified the partners that the NY SPIL 2017-2019 was reviewed and approved! Cross reference ACL SPIL approval letter in committee reports. The new SPIL and approval letter will be posted on the NYSILC website. Congratulations to all!Consumer Satisfaction Survey Process for Next Cycle – Full details during committee report. Brief email question sent to centers about language. Upcoming survey will have an additional second language to Spanish. See NYSILC consumer satisfaction survey webpage: . Database Workgroup Project – Details during the committee report, however next steps to be worked out at the upcoming NYSILC ACCES-VR meeting 9/20/16.LDCEP/Campaign – All staff met with Liberteks to move forward with the website development for the LDCEP. NYSILC staff have to provide Liberteks with content to assist with the development. Brad has been working with Amy on the LDCEP proposal and getting it ready for distribution.WIOA Regulations/Roll Out – Draft regulations for SILC standards and indicators will be reviewed this afternoon at the full council meeting. This will include comments submitted to ACL.4. Treasurer’s Report A.Quarterly Fiscal Report (April-June 2016)NYSILC Statement of Revenue and ExpendituresSept 2016 FC Meeting?YTD2015-16ACCESApr-June 2016BudgetOct 15-Jun 16$ Variance% VarianceBudgetBudgetREVENUEACCES Contract89,931279,503252,218-27,285372,671372,671Fee for Service9752,0001,0251,300Donations Unrestricted1503,7502,475-1,2755,000Donations Restricted0000Other Rent Income6251,8751,87502,500Interest Income12048480Misc. income?01,6581,6580?Total Revenue90,717286,103260,274-25,829-9%381,471372,671EXPENSESSalaries and wages31,876104,66696,555-8,111139,555139,555Employee benefits/taxes9,65831,33231,4006841,77641,776Subtotal, Compensation Costs41,534135,998127,954-8,044-6%181,331181,331Rent6,58323,64219,791-3,85131,52331,523Telephone2,1637,9606,417-1,54310,61310,613Office supplies2933,9001,179-2,7215,2005,200Contractual Services5,88310,46618,1657,70013,95413,954Printing & postage4921,6701,507-1632,2272,227Travel expenses5007,9596,190-1,76910,61210,612Transportation 2,0627,1636,195-9679,5509,550Insurance1,0045,0012,962-2,0396,6686,668Dues/Subscription/Sponsorships02,547982-1,5653,3963,396Interest/bank charges370050950900Purchased services13,02441,20040,495-70554,93354,933SILC/SPIL meeting expenses13,68425,69020,481-5,20834,25334,253Project Costs2,5003,7502,500-1,2505,0005,000Equipment02,5580-2,5583,4113,411Miscellaneous464066466400Subtotal, OTPS49,021143,505128,038-15,467-11%191,340191,340Total Expenses90,556279,503255,992-23,511-8%372,671372,671Net Revenue1626,6004,282-2,3188,8000Notes: Budget modification submitted and accepted by ACCES-VR. Changes reflected in this report. Salary line decreased by $15,500. Technical writers reflected in contractual services increased by $11,089. Equipment line increased by $3,411 to provide funds for a new phone system. Revenue exceeded expenses for the quarter at $162 and YTD at $4,282. Total revenue is under expended by 9% which has decreased by 2%. NYSILC office will pursue final quarter spend down plan. Interest/bank changes up for quarter due to LOC annual fee ($370) and misc. charge ($464) to advertise open NYSILC position. Contractual will remain over budget to accommodate technical writer and spend don projects, but general operating and total budgets will remain with identified limits.4. Treasurer’s ReportB. NYSILC 2017 Annual Budget (October 2016-September 2017)NYSILC 2017 FISCAL YEAR BUDGETOctober 2016-September 2017REVENUEContract w/ACCES VR433,942Fee for Service1,3001)Donations Unrestricted5,000Misc. Income2,500Total Revenue442,742EXPENSESITEMS - Contract LinesSalaries174,900Fringe48,97228%General Operating128,370Equipment0Purchased Services81,700TOTAL433,942Projected Net8,800ITEMS - General OperatingRent32,000Telephone/DSL6,000Office supplies5,200Printing & postage2,500Travel expense11,0002)Transportation11,0003)Conference Calls7,000Insurance6,600Dues/Subs/Spons3,300SILC/SPIL meetings35,0004)SPIL projects5,0005)Contractual3,7706)TOTAL Gen Op128,370ITEMS - Purchased ServicesAudit Services6,000Tech Consult Services15,000Payroll Services2,000Webmaster Services5,000Bookkeeping Services6,200Media Services10,000SPIL Evaluation Consult10,000Social Media Services10,000Meet Coord Services2,500Tech Writing Services10,000Cons Sat Survey Consult5,000TOTAL Purch Serv81,700Breakdown of MWBE Commitments:Tech Consult Services15,000HLNCCWebmaster Services5,000HLNCCMedia Services10,000Barfield Media ConsultantsSocial Media Services10,000ADGMeet Coord Services2,500Roz Harris Instant AssistantTech Writing Services10,000Saile GroupTotal52,500Notes:1) Revenue from potential consulting (SILC-Net, APRIL).2) Includes in/out of state travel.3) Includes vehicle lease & parking.4) Includes $32,500 SILC meeting costs and $2,500 other SPIL meetingsdirectly connected to MWBE MWBE SILC Meetings coordination.5) Reflects $5,000 of young adult sponsorships.6) Includes $2,809 for multi-use copier.4. Treasurer’s ReportC. Finance Committee minutes (August 11, 2016)Finance CommitteeAugust 11, 2016 @ 10 AMCommittee Members Present:? Brad Williams, Sue Hoger, Lindsay Miller, Chad UnderwoodThe NYSILC Quarterly Fiscal Report April –June 2016 was reviewed and approved.? Review included budget modifications accepted by ACCES-VR.? Salary line funds were moved to the contractual services line for the technical writer, and funds were moved into the equipment line to update the phone system.? Revenues exceeded expenditures YTD.? Brad discussed other charges in the fiscal report.? A motion to accept was made by Chad Underwood and seconded by Sue Hoger.? All approved.? The SEFCU savings account quarterly statement was reviewed with no questions.? Spend down plan:? The temp worker is from Fusco and they are also an MWBE provider.? Amy Krebs has done an excellent job, and work on the consumer satisfaction survey is ahead of schedule.Work with LDCEP website with Larry Zimbler from Liberteks is proceeding.? Brad attached a proposed a draft fiscal budget for presentation to the council in September.? Brad went over the line items with the fiscal committee.?? MWBE services are projected in the budget. This could change depending on whether or not the requested MWBE exemption is approved. Motion to accept the draft fiscal budget was put forward by Lindsay Miller and seconded by Chad Underwood, all approved. Emily Ladau has requested multiyear funds to participate on the NCIL board.? She is the youth representative to the NCIL board, and she is the first person elected to that position.? Emily will need funds to participate on the board meetings.? Brad spoke with her regarding the Pat Figueroa sponsorships.? She has requested funds for four board meetings at $2000/year over two years. Lindsey Miller had positive comments regarding Emily Ladau, and offered the possibility that she could offer input to the NYSILC committee or offer help to the Leadership Development committee.? Chad believes that we should not bend the rules of the Figueroa funds, but is open to the possibility of using some spenddown funds for her travel to the NCIL board if they become available next year. Chad is not open to touching the savings as it sets a bad precedent and it is not sustainable.? Sue suggested that Emily may need to find some other funding and fundraise around this particular unique situation.? The finance committee agreed that she will have to reapply for Figueroa funds for next year (each year). Brad will communicate with her to contact them again in May regarding further availability of funds.Meeting adjourned5. Executive Committee ReportA. MinutesNew York State Independent Living CouncilExecutive Committee June 10, 2016 @ 11:00 AMCommittee members present: Sue Ruff, Bob Gumson, Brad Williams, Roger Benn.A press release was recently sent out by Jim Dixon from Disability Rights Activists and the American Civil Liberties Union. They are suing New York State over the inaccessibility of online voter registration for people with disabilities. Jim Dixon was in contact with NYSILC, trying to get plaintiffs with other disabilities, but was unable to find any that were willing to come forward. The full council meeting is coming up on Friday, June 17, 2016 at Troy Hilton Garden Inn. The April draft full council minutes were not typed up before Patty left, and they will be one of the first assignments for the person who is coming in to replace her. The agenda for the upcoming meeting was reviewed. The meeting between NYSILC and ACCES-VR was discussed. The NYSILC contract is the priority issue. The single-source contract that is up for renewal every three years went through SED and fiscal. It is now under OSC review, and it has been going through a series of questions. We will keep responding to OSC and giving them clarification, keeping in mind that the process they’re using to review now is different. We will continue to monitor the process. The database interface project will also be on the agenda for the ACCES-VR meeting.Uniform Grant Guidance will require more in-depth monitoring, acknowledging both best-practice projects, those in need of technical assistance, and those that are having a difficult time. Extreme cases may warrant the discontinuation of funds. NYSILC has a fiduciary responsibility to monitor the efficacy of programs. Policy and procedure will need to be written for practices already in use by the SILC for monitoring the objectives and projects that are in the state plan. Brad discussed this year’s technical assistance opportunities through the CIL-net and APRIL. He will co-provide a session at the NCIL conference called “Lessons Learned on the SPIL and WIOA,” and he will present two prerecorded webinars; one on the three-year SPIL cycle and one on SPIL authorities. The council will be reimbursed for these services. Brad will be paired with the Michigan SILC in a mentoring relationship through APRIL. Recruitment of new NYSILC members: Deadline is at the end of June, and there are seven applicants thus far. We will monitor our needs related to ex-officios. In the hiring process for the administrative assistant position, there were over 18 responses and a good pool of candidates. Under the Affordable Care Act, health and dental must be made available to employees at 90 days. The NYSILC policy was previously 6 months for the introductory period, which was linked to health and dental benefits. This will require an edit to the personnel policy by the council. Bob asked if the dental was separate from the health insurance, and Brad answered that in the policy, the health and the dental are tied together. Brad questioned whether or not the introductory period should be tied to the health insurance. Perhaps they should both be three months. Bob suggested leaving the probationary period at 6 months, even if NYSILC is required to offer health benefits at 90 days. Updates SPIL Development LDCEP: Upload of draft NY SPIL to ACL MIS is underway. There was a follow up meeting with Liberteks regarding the interactive website with a comprehensive toolset. The ongoing cost will need to be addressed. One of the options looks like it may be functional and affordable. Consumer Satisfaction Survey: Working on revising the methodology and data collection process.Data Interface Project: Following up with information from local vendor. Discussion is needed with ACCES-VR about next steps in process about how to proceed. WIOA Regulations/Roll Out: Still waiting to see the final IL regulations. Draft SILC standards and Indicators (S & Fs) out.Bob informed the committee that there is a new interim IL director in Brooklyn named Heidi Hirschfeld. Joan Peters has recently left that position. Ms. Hirschfeld is a board member who has stepped in for the duration of the search for a permanent director. Next meeting: Friday, July 8, 2016 at 11 AM.Executive and Finance CommitteesJune 23, 2016Sue Hoger, Chad Underwood, Zach Garafalo, Sue Ruff, Lindsay MillerRoger Benn, Brett Eisenberg, Joe BravoBrad WilliamsAfter lunch at the NYSILC full council meeting, Brad presented the initial spenddown projection pulled together by bookkeeper Micki Mauger with his input and review. He explained the nuances of what was available, what would need to take place in a budget modification, and what four projects he’d like to get support for: $2,500 sponsorship of the ADAPT youth summit, $10,000 to identify important web access improvements for the IL History & Philosophy tutorial through My Blind Spot, $3,500 for phase one (through 9/30/16) for database development for the LDCEP with Liberteks, $4,800 to connect with Fusco personnel for a temp worker to concentrate over six weeks on the consumer satisfaction survey.The group felt that maybe Brad could get the cost of the web access down – maybe to $7,500. Chad would like to see an option to provide a sponsorship opportunity to council members going to the NCIL conference – maybe five at $500 each through travel reimbursement. Lindsay wondered if the new program coordinator could be brought on early. Brad wondered if the line restrictions might be too tight along with the interruptions of vacations that he had to take this summer to reduce his vacation liability.It was left that Brad would go back and rework the numbers with Micki and send out an email to the group to react to considering the feedback.On 6/22/16, Brad emailed the updated spenddown plan information to the combined Finance and voting Executive Committee members. It included their feedback. Brad responded to email clarification about his vacation liability and a buy back option.The combined group approved the plan with seven yes votes, one abstention.New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC)Executive CommitteeJuly 15, 2016 @ 11:00 AMCommittee members present: Bob Gumson, Sue Hoger, Zach Garafalo, Roger Benn, and Brad Williams.The new administrative assistant began on Monday and finished two full council meetings minutes. Brad was pleased. Spenddown: The budget modification portion was submitted to ACCES-VR, and the quarterly reimbursement is near completion. The ADAPT summit was addressed, and Martin Abril from SILO will be attending as a NYSILC representative. Chad, Zach, and Martin are going to the NCIL conference. The My Blind Spot proposal is down to $7500. They’ve reviewed the DVD version, and we are continuing to make progress. Brad will reconnect with Liberteks within the next week. The NYSILC Program Coordinator position has been posted. Micki will be in today to take care of the payables and the reports, and will give Brad an update on the spenddown. Restitution of the former employee: There have not been any recent payments, so Brad sent a letter to parole to that effect. An official letter was received stating that her case was brought before Rensselaer County Court where her restitution was converted to a civil judgment. If NYSILC would like to pursue the rest of the money, an attorney (William Frumkin) must represent the council to file an order or lien against the former employee for the remainder of the money. In Brad’s opinion, NYSILC should pursue this matter, and the committee agreed. The committee also agreed that Brad should have the latitude to pursue this without a vote from the council. If possible, the committee would also like to pursue attorney fees from the former employee. Bob has heard nothing about the NYSILC contract. Bob said it is with the OSC. There is some concern regarding this contract coming in a timely manner, and the committee discussed whether Brad should actively pursue the controller’s office for release of the contract. Sue Hoger will find the contact in the controller’s office for Brad.Recruitment: Joe Bravo acknowledged that he is moving toward retirement. He is going to stay on the council through the end of 2017, but feels he needs to resign from the executive committee. This means we will need a new vice chair for the executive committee. Brad will start by sending an email to Executive Committee members. SPIL Development: the draft SPIL was submitted to ACL and is in the review process. Bob requested that those who are attending the NCIL conference inquire about the expectation for centers around Fifth Core Service.Leadership Development: Brad will know more once he is able to meet with Liberteks. Consumer Satisfaction: Brad has hired a temp to begin working on the Consumer Satisfaction Survey.Data interface: ACCES-VR is doing internal work to connect their team members with information related to this project. It’s likely that there will not be a meeting until September, but the process is continuing. WIOA: Draft regulations and standards and indicators for SILCS are out for comment until August 15. Brad will comment. Aileen Martin from Watertown sent an email to ACL related to an issue between RSA and ACL. There were unspent ARRA funds, and some centers had an understanding that they could get reimbursed for unused funds. Recently, ACL has told the centers that they could not have access to these funds. Brad contacted Deb Kotter and requested that someone in ACL do an accounting for the New York network to find out how much our Federal CILs lost. Brad has not heard back, and will continue to pursue this inquiry. Aileen also sent a letter President Obama stating that they “opposed an effort to include individuals with mental illness who have representative payees to manage their social security benefits in the gun background check database.” Bob informed the committee that the WIOA regulations are out. One change is that under WIOA, the category of homemaker will no longer be an acceptable outcome for vocational rehabilitation. Previously, people were able to get help managing their homes as if it were their job, and this allowed for modification to homes, access to equipment and personal assistance, and modified vehicles. After August 15th, this will no longer be an acceptable employment goal for new consumers. These consumers are encouraged to contact their independent living centers. Meeting adjourned.Executive Committee August 12, 201611 AM?Committee members present:? Brad Williams, Zach Garafalo, Bob Gumson, Sue Hoger, Roger Benn?Brad went over the September full council meeting agenda.? One piece of business is the vice-chair vacancy.? An email was sent out to the executive committee to see if any of those members are interested in moving up to vice chair.?Sue Ruff stated an interest in moving up to vice chair if no one else wanted to. After discussing the issue further, the executive committee is not prepared at this time to make a vice chair recommendation, so it will be an item on the agenda for the full council to discuss and take action on at the meeting.? Bob recommended putting a note out to members ahead of the full council meeting in case anyone wants to show interest in the position.? Brad will touch base with Sue Ruff regarding her interest in the position at the end of August. ?Also on the draft agenda, Brad has put a youth and young adult discussion on the agenda for 11 am. He would like to put out an invite to those people who participated in events via Pat Figueroa sponsorships.?This would allow them to discuss their experiences, how the sponsorship helped, and how the program can be improved.Brad wants the after lunch schedule to include facilitated discussions on two issues.? One is the ACCES-VR letter of July 25th regarding youth and young adult transition, WIOA, and the fifth core services.? The second item is the draft SILC standards and indicators.? Brad would like to review these with the full council in September, along with his comments on the draft standards and indicators. Roger agreed that this will allow people to engage and have dialogue on this issue.?Recruitment:? Letter to member George Hoehmann, supervisor of town of Clarkstown.? He has missed several meetings. Brad has sent him email correspondence and has not heard back from him. In this letter, the council will thank him for his service to the council and his new position. We will replace his vacancy with a new member.? Brad will follow through on that today.?Brad mentioned to the committee that Brian Daniels reported back that they don’t intend to continue with a NYS commission for the blind representative on the council.? They understood the decisions we made related to WIOA. NYSCB has their own WIOA changes and priorities to focus on as well. ? ?Candidates for recruitment:? The committee completed its review and interview process and made four recommendations. Brad presented them to the committee members. The recommended appointments and reappointments were attached. Brad reminded the committee about the need to be mindful about at least 51% of members must be people with disabilities who aren’t state employees and staff of Federal Centers for Independent Living. There was a motion to accept the four candidates for appointment to the council by Sue Hoger, and was seconded by Roger Benn.? The motion was approved unanimously.?Reappointments:? Mark Rosen started off on an unexpired term, and needs to be appointed to a second 3-year term.? He is no longer considered a youth representative, since he is above the age of 28.? Under WIOA there is another category of individuals with disabilities, or he could be categorized under “other.”? Zach has to be reappointed to his second three-year term, and Doug must also be reappointed, since he also began in an unfinished term. Brad will work out the details with Bob Gumson of ACCES-VR.?Slater matter:? This has been taken care of, the civil judgement. It now says NYSILC at the top, allowing Brad to take action on the recoup of funds.? Bill Frumkin will give the council a referral to someone to begin collection on those funds from the Albany area.?Program Coordinator position has been offered to Amy Krebs, who was also the temp working with NYSILC.? She will begin on September 6.? She did great work with the consumer satisfaction survey.?NYSILC contract:? Bob expedited things allowing the materials to be processed and delivered, and it was received this morning.?The office will turn it around to the SED contracts office by the end of the day. Once the contract is fully executed, NYSILC will submit an advance on the contract. ?Draft State Plan:? We are awaiting final word on its approval.LDCEP:? All staff met with Liberteks to move forward with the website development for the LDCEP. NYSILC staff have to provide Liberteks with content to assist with the development. Brad has been working with Amy on the LDCEP proposal and getting it ready for distribution.In a new matter, Erin has been working with Jeremy McGowen to review the initial report from My Blind Spot on the website access and usability. The overall website is great. The tutorial was very good except for the timeline and test which will need further work.Consumer Satisfaction Survey is in very good shape and ahead of schedule. Based on the recent conference call, a brief email was sent to centers asking about languages. Another language or two may be added along to Spanish. More to come.?Draft regulations for SILC standards and indicators will be reviewed at the next full council meeting.Other:? Emily Ladau is the first youth representative to NCIL. She has put in a request for a multi-year increased amount Pat Figueroa sponsorship to address her need to attend NCIL board meetings. The committee agreed with the Finance Committee. Do not change the PF opportunity. She can apply one per year and then email Brad in May about her need and possibly get some assistance if there is a spend down. Brad will contact her. Meeting was adjourned. 6. Committee & Subcommittee ReportsA. ACCES-VR SRC report (March 1-2, 2016)ACCES-VR SRC Quarterly MinutesMarch 1, 2016In Attendance Day OneMichelle Barlow, Debora Brown-Johnson, LaWanda Cook, Paul Czech, Greg Danis, Helene Fallon, Alan Gallagher, Michael Godino, Howard Gross, Peter Herrig of the NYSCB (Commission for the Blind), Michael Irwin, Martha Jackson, Robert Linton, Jennifer Machucki, Dennis Martinez, Patricia Mazzariello, Sophie McDermott, Liam McNabb, Erica Molina, Joan Parker, Michael Peluso, Ray Pierce, Roger Purdy, Lourdes Rivera-Putz, Tonya Robinson-Mayer, Lisa Rosano-Kaczkowski, Fredda Rosen, Bill Schultz, Michael Sherman, Shirley Sherman, Elizabeth Skender, Kevin Smith, Joseph Tedesco, Chad Underwood, Lisa Van Ryn, and (by phone) Julie Hovey, Craig Wolfson. WhatCall To Order & Welcome Member IntroductionsMichael Irwin, SRC Chair, called meeting to order; attendance and introductions took place. New members Michael Godino and Howard Gross were introduced and welcomed. The meeting packet material was reviewed, and it was noted. That the June meeting will take place in Troy and in September the meeting will return to the Hilton Garden Inn, Albany.WhatDiscussion and OutcomeCall To Order & Welcome Member IntroductionsReview and Approve December MinutesReview Action itemsPublic CommentMichael Irwin, SRC Chair, called meeting to order; attendance and introductions took place. New members Michael Godino and Howard Gross were introduced and welcomed. The meeting packet material was reviewed, and it was noted. That the June meeting will take place in Troy and in September the meeting will return to the Hilton Garden Inn, Albany.December 2015 minutes approval. Yea: 17 Nay: 0 Abstain: 2 Minutes approvedNoneNoneExecutive CommitteeReport 2016 ACCES-VR and SRC Common Priorities Combined State PlanDRNY/ Client Assistance Program (CAP) Report NYSILC Update (NYS Independent Living Council)CommitteeReminders/OutcomesMichael Irwin, SRC Chair; LaWanda Cook, SRC Co-Vice Chair; and Tonya Robinson-Mayer,SRC Co-Vice Chair Common Priorities: are intended to foster synergy between the SRC (Council) andACCES-VR. They include tasks and goals that will promote communication, and continued review and participation in ACCES-VR programs and policies moving forward.Discussion/comments: Chad Underwood commented that these priorities would be more meaningful if target dates and timelines were included, and also if they could be issued earlier in year.The New York State Combined Plan was posted online for public comment from January 7, 2016 until February 8, 2016. The comments were reviewed by all WIOA core agency partners, responses were drafted, and are still being finalized. Questions or comments related to the New York State Combined Plan or the Public Comment tables may be emailed to SWIB@labor.. Erica Molina, CAP Director, Disability Rights New York (DRNY) described the Client Assistance Program (CAP) mission and services. The (CAP) provides assistance to New Yorkers with disabilities that are applying or receiving vocational rehabilitation (VR) services from New York State VR agencies.? Erica e-mailed the CAP report to the SRC and the report is available with DRNY’s other reports on their website: . Chad Underwood, CEO, Access to Independence of Cortland County, Inc., referenced budget issues with respect to funding from the legislature, also noted support for the proposed $15 minimum wage hike and the hope that the State will recognize the need to subsidize these new wage requirements for Not-for-Profits. Mike I. noted the Council’s effort to share information with other similar bodes to the SRC including that of the NYS Commission for the Blind and the Independent Living Council.ACCES-VR Update, Reports & DialogueWIOA Combined State PlanACCES-VR & SRC Common PrioritiesAssistive Technology MOU w/Justice CenterACCES-VR & CUNY LEADS StatusStrategic Planning ImplementationSRC Recommendations Follow UpKevin Smith, Deputy Commissioner of ACCES-VR and Debora Brown-Johnson, ACCES Assistant CommissionerCombined State Plan: Kevin noted that the deadline for submission of Combined State Plan has been changed to June 1, 2016 but NYSED (NYS Education Department) is ready to go with the original date of March 3, 2016. WIOA final regulations are expected in June and we do not expect significant changes from the draft regulations. ACCES’s relationship with the Department of Labor (DOL) has been strengthened. We are also excited about adult education and employment for persons with disabilities in terms of job opportunities. Q & A Comment: Mike Godino, new member to the SRC, who is a legally blind individual and a former consumer of the NYS Commission for the Blind commented that the new high school equivalency (HSE) test is not accessible to the blind and neither are many One-Stop Centers. He also noted the Unemployment Insurance program is also not user friendly.Response: Kevin responded that these accessibility issues are real and the company that provides the new equivalency testing is fully obligated to comply with federal program. Access guidelines. He also agrees that One-Stops need to be more to ensure cross disability program access.Chad Underwood raised a question about feedback serving undocumented immigrants State vs Feds. Helene Fallon asked who is responsible for what, in relation to undocumented immigrants. This might be another area that we could tap into.Response: Kevin noted undocumented aliens cannot be reported to the federal government as being served, however New York State has made a commitment to serve these individuals under Adult Ed and not just report this service to the Feds. We have made a commitment to the immigrant population. The plan is good and there is ground work being laid for more collaboration among the entities under the plan.Bill Schultz added that it would be beneficial for NYS to keep data on the services that are provided to undocumented immigrants.Response: Kevin answered in the affirmative.Board of Regents: Kevin stated that with three board members saying goodbye including Chancellor Tisch and Vice Chancellor Bottar, the NYS Legislature will choose a new Chancellor mon Priorities: Debora Brown-Johnson stated that 2016 is the third year that we (ACCES-VR) have shared common priorities with the SRC and that she feels this approach works well.Assistive Technology MOU: Debora noted there is a MOU with the NYS Justice Center to expand support with our services. Lisa Rosano-Kaczkowski, Director, TRAID/AH Programs for the Center commented about working with ACCES-VR District Offices (DO) to increase access to assistive technology devices and equipment loans. LEADS (Linking Employment, Academics, and Disability Services): Debora discussed the program and stressed its emphasis on the internships as an introduction to world of work though internships. Planning: Debora reported staffing pilots are in place at ACCES-VR District Offices and permission has been granted by the Division of Budget to hire staff including IES (Individual Employment Specialists) positions. Training is underway to implement the expanded relationship between counselors and counselor assistants. We are also reviewing responses to an RFP for a new Case Management IT System. The new consumer orientation PowerPoint that has been rolled out among our entry services providers will the delivery of a consistent message and distinct orientation materials targeting transition age What will released on time this year. SRC recommendations follow up: Debora responded to the SRC recommendations from the last quarterly meeting in December 2015.Recommendation 1: ACCES-VR makes it a goal to increase the current 2014 ACCES-VR employment outcome rate of 58.6 by 5% over the course of four years (1.25% / year). Year 1 target: 59.3 Year 2 target: 60.0 Year 3 target: 60.8 Year 4 target: 61.6Recommendation 2: ACCES-VR makes it a goal to increase the current 2014 ACCES-VR average wage of $10.92 per hour by 3% per year over the course of 4 years.Year 1 target: $11.25Year 2 target: $11.59Year 3 target: $11.94Year 4 target: $12.30 Response: In reference to the 2 recommendations about outcomes increasing successful outcomes by 5% and wages by 3%, we want to first wait for the regulations from WIOA before we commit. We will continue to measure consumer satisfaction.Recommendation 3: ACCES-VR evaluate upstate and downstate wages, as defined by ACCES-VR, separately while working to improve earnings of individuals with disabilities who exit the VR program with an employment outcome and report separately in the annual report. Response: I understand there are some concerns about the data that we have and that we share annually and some of the data that was recommended under our 911, so Michael Peluso will be the lead to work with the Council to identify what that gap is and to address the difference in data between upstate and downstate. Michael P. agreed to identify gaps in data.Disability Employment Initiative (DEI)Sixth Round FundingAlan Gallagher, Disability Employment Initiative (DEI) State Lead, DOL (NYS Dept. Of Labor)ROUND 6: Alan Gallagher gave a presentation on NYSDOLs most recent sixth round of DEI funding entitled “Pathways to Employment.” This project has a Career Pathways focus in alignment with WIOA. Its goal is to improve the capacity for existing Career Pathways programs to serve people with disabilities and increase employment outcomes. Alan’s presentation discussed the projects goals and outcomes, as well as stressed the potential for innovation through new and existing partnerships and collaborations. SRC Quarterly MinutesMarch 2, 2016In Attendance Day TwoDebora Brown-Johnson, LaWanda Cook, Paul Czech, Greg Danis, Helene Fallon, Michael Godino, Howard Gross, Peter Herrig, Julie Hovey, Michael Irwin, Martha Jackson, Robert Linton, Jennifer Machucki, Dennis Martinez, Patricia Mazzariello, Sophie McDermott, Liam McNabb, Erica Molina, Michael Peluso, Raymond Pierce, Roger Purdy, Lourdes Rivera-Putz, Tonya Robinson-Mayer, Christopher Rosa (CUNY presenter), Lisa Rosano-Kaczkowski, Fredda Rosen, Bill Schultz, Michael Sherman, Shirley Sherman, Elizabeth Skender, Joseph Tedesco, Kevin Tucker (CUNY presenter), Chad Underwood, Lisa Van Ryn, and (by phone) Craig Wolfson.WhatDiscussion and OutcomeCall To Order Michael Irwin, SRC ChairMeeting called to order and members welcomed. The Council did a go-around for introductions. Core Rehabilitation Services (CRS 2.0) UpdateCurrent Utilization TrendsNew Services Under ConsiderationRay Pierce, Coordinator for Service Delivery, ACCES-VRCurrent Utilization TrendsRay discussed the utilization of the current CRS contract which varies from 47% to 88% depending on the particular service, and reported that a desired increase in contract utilization from 30 % to 38%. A total of 27 contracts will be amended in the new contract. In regards to the timeline for the new CRS 2.0 Contract – the draft RFP is currently being reviewed by the ACCES-VR Assistant Deputy Commissioner and will then proceed through various reviews by SED Fiscal and NYS control agencies (DOB & OSC). The anticipated release of the CRS 2.0 RFP is late Spring 2016 with a contract start date of Spring 2017. Rates will increase for certain services, and all current vendors will need to reapply in response to the new contract RFP. Ray outlined the new services to be provided under CRS 2.0:New CRS 2.0 ServicesCareer Exploration Assessment – includes a comprehensive evaluation (history, work experience, education, strengths, interests, disability, etc.)Self-Advocacy for Employment – (required under WIOA) – provides services to help individuals attain skills to prepare for and engage in career development and employment. It is considered a Youth Employment Service (YES), but can be utilized for any age consumer. Employment Customization – (required under WIOA) – includes customization of job duties, hours, schedule and supervision to match individual/employer needs.Extended Supported Employment for Youth – (required under WIOA) – allows federal funding of SE extended for youth. Previously, only state dollars were available. Provides 48 months of funding for SE extended for youth under age 25. Fredda R. commented that more hours should be allotted for YES internships and SE job coaching.Peer Integration Demonstration Pilot – RFP was awarded to Westchester Independent Living Center and Rochester Center for Independent Living Center. VRC’s will refer individual’s to Peer Integrated Specialist’s for assistance in resolving issues that may impede employment such as childcare, transportation, public benefits, housing, personal care, etc. The Pilot is expected to serve a minimum of 100 ACCES-VR consumers ments/discussion: Ray noted that no services will be dropped or eliminated. However, there is going to be one change with entry services which will no longer allow vendors to write the eligibility case notes, but will still allow them to gather the materials for the eligibility bined State Plan & Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment UpdatesLisa Van Ryn, ACCES-VR Manager, Resource DevelopmentWIOA Combined State Plan:Lisa thanked Council members on their public comment efforts and informed them that there was a tremendous amount of public comment received from various sources. Additionally, Lisa reported that the WIOA Workgroup acknowledges that there is still room for improvement regarding the Combined State Plan. Lisa presented information on common themes within the comments:Need for more information on specific initiatives overlap and how agencies will integrate and come together. Agencies are presently working together on developing strategies to addresses integration and partnering.Data sharing – each agency has to meet specific performance measures. All partners are talking about how to collect data and share amongst partners – continues to be a challenging area.Cross training of staff on program specifics so that all partners know enough about each other’s programs.Need for key people to participate in information meetings across the state to share program information and to address more specifics of the plan. This would provide an additional opportunity to learn about each other’s programs.The Combined State Plan has been approved by the Board of Regents and is awaiting the Governor’s approval.State Plan Needs Assessment:Lisa explained that there are two simultaneous processes underway regarding the State Plan Needs Assessment. First, there is formal RFP under development with a goal of gathering information. It will include Youth and pre-employment transition services for students still in school (who have an IEP and a 504 Plan). Additionally, it will include an examination of the needs of business and focus on business engagement. ACCES-VR will be looking to the SRC to help write the RFP. Do we need more surveys? Do we need town meetings? What’s going to help us get the information that we can’t easily find?Second, ACCES-VR will look at existing data, including that in the Combined State Plan, existing ACCES-VR data, DOL data and the data that is currently being gathered under the SUNY Potsdam Institute for Applied Research (PIAR) Information Collection Contract. There is a need to explore and identify how ACCES-VR can get the required data and identify where there are existing data gaps. Robert Linton is the lead for the State Plan Needs Assessment and will collaborate with the Workforce, Transition and QAI committees to solicit input. The timeline for the preliminary draft of the State Plan Needs Assessment is June 2016.Actions Required: The Workforce, Transition and QAI committees need to develop an outline identifying specifics of committee work regarding the development of the Needs Assessment.Advisory Council on Postsecondary Education for Students with DisabilitiesTamara Mariotti, Advisory Council Member, Director of Disability Services, SUNY Mohawk Valley Community CollegeRoger Purdy, Director of Disability Support Services, Le Moyne CollegeThe NYS Council on Postsecondary Education for Students with Disabilities (NYSDSC) is a statewide counsel of professionals and lay persons interested in the provision of disability services to students with disabilities at postsecondary institutions in NYS. In December 2013, the Board of Regents approved the creation of an Advisory Council on Higher Education for Students with Disabilities to serve and advise the NYS Education Department, and in particular the offices of Higher Education, P-12’s Office of Special Education and ACCES-VR to improve the transition of students to post-secondary education and ensure the successful completion of students with disabilities attending higher education institutions. The Advisory Council formed the following four sub committees: Fiscal, Legislative/Regulation, Technical Assistance and Data Collection. Current Advisory Council activities and Efforts for NY students with disabilities in post-secondary education include ADA-TAP, NYS Higher Education Data Systems (HEDS) Report Transformation, Reader’s Aid Program (RAP), and Perkins – 2%.CUNY LEADS & Project REACH (Resources and Education on Autism as CUNY’s Hallmark)Christopher Rosa, Ph.D., CUNY Assistant Dean for Student AffairsKevin Tucker, CUNY Interim Executive Director, Malave Leadership AcademyA PowerPoint and informative discussion of the CUNY LEADS Program was presented by Dr. Rosa and Kevin Tucker. CUNY LEADS is a unique program designed to prepare CUNY students with disabilities to make realistic academic and career choices and develop the skills that will result in successful career outcomes. CUNY is proud to have a distinction of being the nation’s largest public university system with more than 270,000 students enrolled in degree programs across 24 campuses in New York. In addition there are more than a quarter million students in adult education programs; with more than half a million students that are touched through the program, and among those are more than 9,000 students with disabilities. More than one third of those individuals are individuals with hidden disabilities. The program also serves large populations of accommodation intensive students, deaf and hard of hearing students, and many neuro diverse students. Although the challenges are considerable, there have been significant outcomes:Retention Rate - 84.4%* Percentage of participants retained from intake through 09/01/2015Employment Rate 70%* Percentage of “job ready” participants employed within 18 months of graduationAlso in place is CUNY Project REACH that focuses on a student’s academic success, their personal development, and their transition to competitive employment. Project REACH is a university-wide project funded by the FAR Fund created to enhance CUNY’s capacity to support its growing population of college students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and to educate faculty and staff about students with ASD. At the core of CUNY’s mission is to provide affordable and accessible higher education opportunities to all students, especially those who have historically not had access to higher education opportunities -- like students on the autism spectrum. ASDandProjectREACH.html LEADS.htmlSRC BusinessCommittee ReportsNew RecommendationsEx-officio Member UpdatesOther BusinessMichael Irwin, SRC Chair & Full CouncilCommittee Reports:Quality Assurance and Improvement Committee (QAI): QAI requested additional clarification from ACCES-VR regarding three of the 2016 ACCES-VR & SRC Common Priorities. Additionally, QAI requested information regarding the Youth Employment Initiative RFP and QAI’s role. The QAI Committee also suggested consideration of earlier development of the ACCES-VR & SRC Common Priorities with a draft in June and finalization of Work plan goals by the end of September going forward. The QAI Committee requests that ACCES-VR develop a timeline process for the 2017 Combined Sate Plan that that includes all activities.The QAI Committee agreed to provide feedback to Robert Linton regarding unserved/underserved populations for consideration of inclusion in the State Plan Needs Assessment. Chad also alerted the full Council to legislation in the Senate and Assembly regarding Business Tax Credits and Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise (MWOBE). The Workforce Committee will be monitoring this legislation. The QAI Committee reviewed the CAP Annual Report and the QAI work plan during the committee meeting.Workforce Development Committee (WFDC):Martha Jackson reported that the Workforce Committee has been following up the 2016 Common Priorities and other issues/strategies on increasing business relations with particular emphasis on exposing youth to employment opportunities. Through enhanced employer engagement, employer staffs can learn more about the capabilities youth and disabilities. Expanded opportunities for volunteerism along with business and school partnerships are other strategies for improved employer awareness of the potential youth with disabilities bring to the workforce. Martha will have the Workforce Committee look at the Business Tax Credit and MWOBE legislation pending in the Senate and Assembly. The Workforce Committee would like to obtain data regarding consumers with open cases who have professional degrees and are in the process of career changes. Martha reported that John Robinson, of “Our Ability”, has been designated as the official managing partner of the NY Business Leadership Network (NYBLN). The goal is to have the NYBLN work collaboratively with the NYC Mayor’s Office, but there is presently no staff in NYC to assist. Martha reported that she is hopeful that the Workplace Initiative Grant will be utilized to help staff the Workplace Initiative and also help with the Business Development Council.Transition Committee:The Transition Committee reported that they have the following priority action plan items:Identifying how they can tap into the College Supports and Post-secondary Council.The Special Education Field Advisory: Blueprint for Improved Results for Students with Disabilities. Sophie will provide Michael P with the web address to the Blueprint. Michael will share the link with SRC members.Policy and Planning Committee (PPC):Due to the absence of PPC Committee members at the Quarterly Meeting, the Committee suspended its committee report at this time. The full Committee will meet during the week of March 7th and will report out then.Full Council RecommendationMotion to revise the SRC Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to define how non-Council members may engage in SRC activities. Motion - Bill S; Seconded – Martha J.Vote: Yea – 16; Nay – 0; Abstain – 0 Recommendation: ApprovedEx-Officio Updates:Lisa Rosano-Kaczkowski NYS Justice CenterLisa reported that there has been a recent reorganization at the Justice Center. Lisa was previously located in Program and Policy, which no longer exists and was replaced with another unit – Outreach and Education. Lisa is now under the Office of Administration. Collaboration with ACCES-VR regarding technology remains an ongoing initiative.Greg Danis NYS Developmental Disability Planning Council (DDPC)Greg reported that the Supported Decision Making and Guardianship Grant is rolling out with Hunter College who will implement an education campaign around Supported Decision Making and Guardianship. The DDPC 5-Year State Plan is currently under development and will go live September 1, 2016.Julie Hovey NYS Commission for the Blind (NYSCB)Julie reported that the Business Enterprise Program is currently under expansion and they are currently working with SUNY to establish vendor operations on SUNY campuses.Sophie McDermott SED Office of Special EducationGrants – CDOS Credential grants can’t be publically released so they cannot be discussed yet. A memo regarding transition assessments is expected to be released soon.The Special Education Field Advisory: Blueprint for Improved Results for Students with Disabilities is designed for Pre-K to grade 12 and identify existing best instructional practices to improve instruction to prepare students with disabilities for success beginning in the preschool years to lay the foundation for successful post-secondary outcomes. Sophie will follow-up with Michael P with the link to the web page for the Blueprint information.Meeting Adjourned – Next Meeting on June 8-9, 2016 at the Hilton Garden Inn, 235 Hoosick St., Troy, NY 121806. Committee & Subcommittee ReportsD.NYSCB SRC report (March 16-17, 2016)NYSCB State Rehabilitation Council minutesHilton Garden Inn Troy, NYMarch 16th & 17th, 2016SRC members present: Maria Mucaria, Theresa Drum, Chancey Fleet, Pratik Patel, Erica Molina, Chris Kchao, Debbie Fiderer, Meghan Schoeffling Ex-Officio members present: Lisa Rosano, Mindy Jacobsen (by phone) Kimberly Dunker, Bob Gumson and Brian S. Daniels. NYSCB staff present: Tracy Breslin, Sharon Flom, Peter Herrig, Julie Hovey, Nathaniel Beyer & Colleen NewhouseMarch 16thBusiness Enterprise Program Update-Andres Harnecker, Business Service Specialist 1Andres Harnecker updated the SRC on the current status of the Business Enterprise Program (BEP). There are currently 67 active managers who are blind and eight sighted temporary managers. There is a slight decline of managers from 2015. BEP has 86 active facilities or open stores. To make up for this difference, several managers who are blind run more than one store at a time until a trainee becomes a manager and can take over the second or piggyback store.Established a new training. BEP has done all in-house training at each of the three district offices in Albany, New York and Buffalo. After this change, trainees will have the option to do distance learning online with the Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired. After passing some free Adult Continuing Education courses that will establish their ability to take training online and a mathematics assessment that ensures the foundation math skills needed to run a business, trainees who wish to pursue the Business Enterprise Program will take Hadley courses leading to National Association of Blind Merchants Entrepreneur of Excellence Certificate ().Pursuing several technology improvements of which two are accessible QuickBooks accounting software Enabling BEP managers who are blind to know their store’s financial situation in real time will help ensure they remain profitable and have more notice of problems than their current accounting methods.BEP is in conversations with SUNY Cobleskill with a view to reach some form of agreement that would allow NYSCB to pursue its priority on the campus. This is a critical first step because the agreements reached could be replicated at about 26 other SUNY campuses. BEP continues to pursue its goal of 30 vending machines branded with the Governor’s Taste New York Initiative containing products produced in New York State. This is in support of the Department of Agriculture and Market’s effort to promote the sale of New York Products which in turn creates or maintains jobs within the State.Tax Credits for Employers who hire People with Disabilities-Mr. Brian Suedkamp, New York State Department of LaborPresentation was sent electronically to Council about the different tax options employers have when hiring people with disabilities. Introduction of SRC members, NYSCB liaisons & approval of November 2015 meeting minutes-Chair’s comments-Pratik Patel, Chair: Chair Patel asked for a motion for the minutes from November meeting to be approved. Erica Molina made a motion and Theresa Drum seconded. The SRC voted and the motion passed unanimously. Chair Patel congratulated NYSCB in regards to the Consumer Satisfaction Survey and also thanked Erica Molina and the Quality Assurance committee on obtaining the results and discussing it with the SRC.NYSCB updates: Mr. Daniel S. DanielsMr. Daniels began his update by welcoming new members, Megan Schoeffling & Debbie Fiderer. ACCES-VR vice chairs, Tonya Robinson & Lawanda Cook and Liaison, Mike Peluso were also welcomed to the SRC as they were observing the meeting. Nathaniel Beyer, who is presenting today, is the Acting Director of the Fiscal Unit for NYSCB. He is replacing Roger Gray, who recently retired.In regards to WIOA, the new regulations should be out sometime in June. The Combined State Plan is currently at the Governor’s office.? Mr. Daniels thanked NYSCB staff who have been working on this: Sharon Flom, Peter Herrig and Julianne Venneman.? There is currently a press release to be issued within the next few days in regards the Consumer Satisfaction Survey. The results of the survey showed an 87% positive feedback and only 13% of areas for improvement.? The 2014 RSA Standards and Indicators report shows that NYSCB is maintaining standards and indicators and exceeding them.? It also shows an average of $40,000 annual salary for employed consumers.? In regards to the rehabilitation rate among peers in the country, NYSCB ranks #4.? The topic of technology was presented to the SRC by Mr. Daniels.? Within the next three months, he would like to form an advisory group/ task force of an advisory nature.? He stated that this group should feel free to advise NYSCB openly. This way, when stakeholders approach NYSCB with issues and barriers, there are resources in place.? Chair Patel asked for more information about the group that is being created.? Mr. Daniels detailed it as: being a small group, topics anything having to do with technology is “game” (examples are TASC exams, technology procurement, accessibility, service deliveries (ATC’s), & advice will be taken very seriouslyThe Office of Community Living (OCL), as contemplated by new legislation, introduced only in the NYS Assembly, is not something NYSCB is being recommended to be a part of. Mr. Daniels informed the SRC that the TASC exam (new GED exam) is being discussed with himself and Mark Leuning from NYSED.? They have been communicating frequently and are hoping within twelve to eighteen months, the issues surrounding the TASC will be resolved.? On policies regarding OCFS, Mr. Daniels brought up that a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or Questioning. (LGBTQ) and Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Gender Expression (SOGIE) group is being formed. OCFS is looking at all of these policies related to this topic.? NYSCB has a small workgroup: Peter Herrig, Julie Hovey, Sharon Flom, Maureen Duncan, Jara Traina (from Legal) and Mr. Daniels himself.? A survey has been issued to service providers and the next step is to reach out to consumers.? Finally, Mr. Daniels reported that open forums will be in October 2016. Questions for Mr. Daniels:-Chancey FleetClarification on OCL.? Mr. Daniels stated that it was communicated through the Office of Aging that NYSCB will NOT be part of the agency and it will not exist.? ?TASC and if he provide anything in writing as to the current state of the test. Mr. Daniels said he would communicate with them and ask about a practice test.-Bob Gumson If a letter from the SRC requesting Chancey’s idea would be appropriate.? Chair Patel stated he was willing to draft a letter on behalf of the SRC.? Mr. Daniels also suggested having a meeting with NYSED in the future.-Erica Molina stated that in the past three years, it has been wonderful working with Mr. Daniels and his staff in regards to the Client Assistant Program (CAP).? She feels it is very appropriate for the SRC to request this info from NYSED. Mr. Daniels asked if it was appropriate to stop communication with the NYSED, however the SRC believes and agrees he should continue his communication.Executive Board update: Mindy JacobsenMindy reported that the major focus of the Board’s last meeting was working with the?New York State Office for the Aging?(NYSOFA) and discussing how senior citizens are not being adequately served. NYSOFA seemed unfamiliar with the number of senior who are blind and research for funding. The Executive Board proposed a cross training and possibly starting webinars and conference calls with NYSOFA and the NYSED in the future. The Executive Board is also working on infant screening and wants to work with the New York State Department of Health. They have asked Mr. Daniels to reach out to his contacts at the agency Chair Patel asked for each committee to describe their functions for new members:Q&A- Erica Molina is the chair; working with Julie Venneman, Julie Hovey and Tracy Breslin on the internal checks NYSCB has (surveys, reviews for service providers, contractors), makes suggestions as needed.Policy- Chancey Fleet is the chair; looks at existing NYSCB policies and implements new ones or if changes are needed, makes recommendations, looking at the State Plan.Workforce Development- Debbie Fiderer is the chair; looks at employment trends, recommends implementation of legislative changes in a positive way. Transition- Theresa Drum is the chair; to ensure the needs of those receiving transition services and making sure there is a positive transition to adulthood.Joint ACCES-VR & NYSCB SRC meeting update: Chair Patel, ChairChair Patel expressed that it is important to make sure the SRC understand the issues that both councils are dealing with. Tracy Breslin, Chancey Fleet, Mike Peluso, Tonya Robinson and Lawanda Cook need to learn more about the SRC’s, where and how each agency operates, and to take the ideas to learn from each other. There have been two meetings so far. The first step is to attend each other’s council meetings. Chancey and Chair Patel are attending ACCES VR’s June meeting. The next agenda item is to speak in early April to create an agenda with joint meetings between Executive Committees. There is discussion about possibly having a meeting where both councils give presentations. Erica Molina had a few suggestions and observations from being on both committees; data from both, this SRC is a lot smaller, and ACCES-VR SRC’s have similar report outs. Tonya Robinson-Mayor stated that there are good ideas between both SRC’s and it will put all on a good path. Chair Patel asked committee chairs to take a couple of days for committee ideas for agenda items of mutual interest. Bob Gumson alerted the group that WIOA asks for metrics of employers who are hiring people with disabilities and the employment of people with disabilities. WIOA regulations will probably make this clearer. Cornell Consumer Satisfaction Survey Report: Quality Assurance CommitteeIt was found that there was a lack of diversity between the consumers surveyed (80% were white or black and very little minority). Because of this there were concerns of outreach. The report was incredibly detailed. NYSCB does not work with the Department of Labor on reporting employment among consumers. We only keep track for 180 days. Any information needed is obtained from NYS Tax & mittee Reports:Q&A- Erica Molina asked if NYSCB conducts exit interviews. NYSCB does not currently ask consumers at closure. Only information that is available is the demographic information but not satisfaction. The SRC would like NYSCB to gather this sort of data. An annual sample of this data would be helpful. Tracy Breslin and Julie Hovey will look into if NYSCB would even do this. ACCES-VR provided the RSA 722 reports to their SRC. ACCES-VR provides this information to their SRC and QA feels NYSCB should do the same. NYSCB is no longer doing these reviews and new forms were created for these reviews. The first review will be next month at Visions and there are new forms to provide feedback. QA also asked to see the blank form that are used when Senior VRC’s complete reviews of VRCs. Julie Hovey will provide QA with the language line reports that OCFS has for NYSCB. Policy- Chancey Fleet stated they were working with NYSCB on the mobile device policy. Purchasing tablets, laptops etc. are permitted, however not cellphones. This is no longer a policy issue. The State Plan is at the Governor’s office right now. The Policy committee is hoping to reach out to NYSCB about the collaboration with ATC’s down the line.Workforce Development- There are continuing changes with WIOA, Ongoing interactions with one stops and connecting with them, working with NYC Metro Placement Consortium. Looking at the best practices on how to proceed and also looking at workforce development trends and nano-science.Transition- Theresa Drum is working collaboratively with workforce committee. Looking into if there are service providers available to meet the needs for O&M assistance or if it can be provided through the Commission and having someone come in and explain these processes. Chair Patel suggested that before the next meeting in June that the Transition committee provides a brief write up of these goals. Public Comments: NoneNational Coalition of State Rehabilitation Council (NCSRC): Chancey FleetChancey Fleet participated in a teleconference that is held monthly for SRC’s across the US. This month’s topic was RSAs technical assistance and demo centers. The notes from the teleconference were sent out to the SRC via email. Chair Patel made a motion that would like our SRC to join this coalition. There is no cost to join. Maria Mucaria seconded the motion. The SRC voted and the motion passed unanimously. Chair Patel will go ahead join the NCSRC.Chair Patel also asked for a motion to empower him to write a letter to State Ed for the TASC. Motion was made by Theresa Drum and seconded by Erica Molina. Mike Peluso suggested the letter be addressed to the Commissioner with a copy to the Executive Board, ACCES-VR, and Kevin Smith.The SRC voted and the motion passed unanimously. Chair Patel will draft the letter in the next few weeks.Annual Client Assistance Program Report (RSA-227): Erica MolinaThis report is submitted every fiscal year from CAP. The SRC received a copy for review.NYSCB Financial Update: Nathaniel Beyer-Chief, Fiscal & Program SupportMr. Beyer discussed with the council some of the roles he has in NYSCB such as; fiscal planning, HR, IT and Audit protection. He explained that NYSCB is mainly VR with roughly 36 million dollars per year for NYSCB. There is very little negotiation with the Feds about moving money. It is purely population based and decisions are made on necessity and what is reasonable. The VR manual is based on this. There is $500,000 for Children’s services, $100,000 for all IL services and 4 million for elderly. The rest goes to our VR program. NYSCB’s summer recreation programs are funded by the profit of vending machine sales. Questions for Mr. Beyer:-Megan Schoeffling asked what portion of money for SILC? He stated $80,000 and $100,000 for ILC’s-Bob Gumson asked how much is the average spent on a VR consumer. Mr. Beyer responded that it depends on what they need, roughly $4,000.-Chair Patel asked where the money comes from to run these meetings (SRC). Mr. Beyer responded that it comes out of VR money (VR money comes in one bulk). The Executive Board meetings are paid out of the Children’s money because it discusses non VR material.Agency Updates from Members:Bob Gumson- ACCES- VR is going through RFP process with two ILC’s (Rochester and Westchester) for trained peer specialists to be there to provide support to VR counselors when they are working with consumers. This is a three year demo project with 2 peers in each office.Lisa Rosano- given $500,000 for five years to purchase devices for post-secondary training and employment to help people be more independent working with VRC’s in District Offices to make sure these devices are what people need and they are working properly.Theresa Drum- Promise project which includes 3 parent centers, 314 students from Buffalo schools and 14 from Niagara Falls schools, recruitment is closing out soon. There is also a SS/Ticket to Work where programs can sign-up for a program network.Debbie Fiderer- HKNC is a downstate community services program. HKNC services are exclusively for people who are deaf/blind. “iCanConnect” is a program that provides high-tech equipment for their summer youth program for high school students.Action Items & Deliberation and Discussion, Wrap-up & Agenda planning for June meeting & adjourn: Possible agenda items; LGBTQ presentation, pending legislation on Office of Community Living, follow-up on high-stakes testing, joint SRC’s & Adult Ed & Adult Literacy (State Ed. Presentation)Respectfully Submitted by NYSCB staff9. Facilitated Discussion on Two Issues: ISSUE 1: Opportunities to expand youth transition and funding. Consider 5th core service.NYSILC letter to ACCES-VR followed by response letter from ACCES-VRNYSILC logoJuly 25, 2016Kevin SmithDeputy CommissionerAdult Career and Continuing Education Services (ACCES VR) 89 Washington Avenue, EBA 5th Floor Albany, New York 12234Dear Kevin:I am writing based on behalf of the New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC), based on a recommendation made at the June full council meeting.Given the changes in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) that emphasize efforts with youth and employment, along with the fifth core service of IL related to youth transition, does ACCES-VR still intend to collaborate on a youth transition project with the IL network? It was expressed to me that individuals met about a year ago and recently followed up. We have been made aware about some developments in this area by the ACCES team, such as the Youth Employment Initiative and the potential of a peer mentoring employment opportunity. Can you update us on the status of youth transition for the IL network? The council has stated an interest in the issue and would like to stay involved with this topic along with NYAIL and the IL centers.Please contact me if you have any questions at (518) 427-1060 or bradw@.?Respectfully,?Brad WilliamsExecutive DirectorNYSED/ACCES-VR logoDear Mr. Williams:I am writing in response to your recent email inquiry related to youth transition and independent living. As you stated in your July 25th email, Adult Career and Continuing Education Services – Vocation Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR) staff and IL representatives did meet about a year ago to discuss ideas on how the IL network might play a role in meeting several of the new Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) requirements related to youth services.ACCES-VR values its collaborative efforts with the IL network. Last month, ACCES-VR launched its most recent collaboration with the two ILC Peer Integration Demonstration Pilot Projects in Rochester and White Plains VR District Offices. Over the past two years, ACCES-VR has experienced a significant influx of youth. As a result, we will be closely monitoring the effectiveness of these IL-VR collaboration projects in serving youth as a basis for future program initiatives.Three Independent Living Centers in our Central NY Region have also been our providers for the Community Employment Specialists Project which provides training and technical assistance to school districts on how to guide students with disabilities in gaining ACCES-VR, OPWDD, Independent Living and other services that will enable them to pursue post-school employment and independent living goals. This project is just starting its third year of a five year project. The participation of the IL Centers in Central NY represents three of the 10 statewide projects. The CES Project is evolving as a key strategy as part of ACCES-VR overall commitment to more effectively engaging youth with disabilities toward competitive integrated employment.In addition to our collaboration with the IL network, ACCES-VR has engaged stakeholders to help shape potential service enhancements that will address the pre-employment transition opportunities required in WIOA. As a result of these discussions, ACCES-VR is considering a number of potential initiatives over the next year. Several of the required youth services, such as self-advocacy training, will need to be included in a future procurement of Core Rehabilitation Services (CRS). We are also considering a pilot using of WIOA-defined Pre-Employment Transition Services for students with disabilities. Finally, we have been exploring strategies that would better engage both in-school and out-of-school youth in career discovery experiences and other youth employment initiatives.For any youth services procurements that ACCES-VR may pursue going forward, we welcome and encourage applications from Independent Living Centers (ILCs) with requisite skills and interests in providing these services.The WIOA affords the entire workforce system a wide range of new opportunities. However, it is critical to take steady and deliberate steps to track and measure results in order to position resources in the most effective ways. We thank you for your interest and readiness to work toward better employment and independent living outcomes for youth with disabilities. We welcome continued input from the ILC network as we move forward.Sincerely,Kevin G. Smith9. Facilitated Discussion on Two Issues: ISSUE 2: Review Draft SILC Standards & Indicators and comment sent to ACL.DRAFT SILC Standards & Indicators (S & I’s) Sec. 701, Sec. 705(a),Sec. 705(b)(4),Sec. 705(c)(1)(D)SILC membership reflects IL philosophyThe SILC will develop a method for recruiting applicants and receiving applications consistent with the independent living philosophy and the requirements of the law.The SILC hires, supervises and evaluates its executive director.The SILC executive director supervises and evaluates SILC staff.1.3 At least annually, the SILC will forward a list of qualified, knowledgeable, and diverse candidates for appointment to SILC, to the appropriate appointing authority, for consideration.1.4 The SILC provides training at least once a year to its members, CILs, and other providers, and other individuals eligible for services under Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, The SILC provides each newly appointed member with an orientation, including orientation regarding IL philosophy, prior to participation at meetings and voting.The SILC has a code of ethical behavior, including regulation of conflicts of interest, for Council members?who receive annual training on the code.The SILC completes and submits an assessment of the SILC training needs to the SILC technical assistance center on an annual basis.8 The SILC develops, implements and maintains sound fiscal and personnel policies and procedures in accordance with its organizational structure.A. The SILC develops, adopts and controls its budget, and allocates funds consistent with identified priorities.Sec. 705(c)(1)The Council fulfills all the duties in Section 705(c) (1) – regarding the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). 2.1 The SILC documents the process for development of the state plan with the Centers for Independent Living within the state, which includes representatives of the Centers and input from people with disabilities and other stakeholders.a. The SILC ensures that public meetings regarding SPIL development and review are open to the public and provides sufficient advance notice of such meetings. b. Meeting locations must be physically accessible to people with disabilities. c. The SILC shall provide such effective communication and accommodations, including auxiliary aids and services, necessary to make the meeting accessible to people with disabilities.2.2 The SILC monitors, reviews and evaluates the implementation of the SPIL. a. The SILC and CILs collaborate on the design of tools and processes to evaluate implementation of the SPIL and assess consumer satisfaction with services.b. The SILC has a process to determine which CILs are eligible to sign the SPIL. c. The SILC utilizes the tools to review and evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of the state plan.2.3 The SILC submits and maintains copies of reports requested by the Administrator and maintains records to verify the information in such reports.Sec. 704(j) & (k), Sec. 705(c) (1) (E) & Sec. 705(c)(2)(A)Documenting coordination activities, in the SPIL and otherwise.3.1 The SILC identifies entities with which activities are coordinated and documents coordination activities.Sec. 705(d)The SILC conducts hearings and forums necessary to carry out its duties.4.1 The SILC meets quarterly and ensures that such meetings of the Council are open to the public and provides sufficient advance notice of such meetings, including posting advance notice of such meetings on the home page of the SILC website All notices and meeting materials are available in accessible formats.4.2 SILC meetings are open to the public except for confidential matters which the state's open meetings or sunshine law would allow to be held in closed session. The SILC holds meetings in locations accessible to people with disabilities and provides such effective communication and accommodations as are necessary to make the meeting accessible to people with disabilities.4.3 The SILC maintains copies of advanced notice, registration lists and minutes and other documentation of input gathered at hearings and forums conducted, as appropriate, and makes them available in accessible formats. Sec. 705(e)The Council shall have a resource plan sufficient to carry out the functions of the SILC.5.1 The resource plan details funding included from:a. Sec. 110 as authorized in Sec.101(a)(18) Innovation and Expansion activities;b. Other public sources; andc. Private sources.d. The resource plan describes the level of need for resources includingi. Staff/personnel;ii. Operating expenses;iii. Council compensation and expenses; andiv. Meeting expenses including meeting space, alternate formats, interpreters, and other accommodations.5.2 If the resource plan includes Title VII, Part B funds, the SPIL provides justification of the percentage of Part B funds to be used, particularly if the percentage exceeds 30%, with references to the SPIL.5.3 The Council has and follows policies and procedures for the supervision and evaluation of staff/personnel.a. The Council maintains personnel records that include performance evaluations.5.4 The Council oversees the assignment of duties to staff/ personnel to ensure there is no conflict of ments to ACL on the Draft SILC Standards:From: Brad Williams Sent: Friday, August 05, 2016 2:50 PMTo: comments.SILCindicators@acl.Subject: Comments on Draft SILC Standards & IndicatorsI am providing the following comments related to the Draft SILC standards and indicators for minimum compliance:Please note there are two 1.3 indicators. The second one and subsequent indicators in the sequence need to be re-numbered.There is no standard related to SILC Autonomy. I support NCIL’s recommendation for a Standard 6: The SILC is not established within any state agency and is organized in a manner that ensures SILC autonomy.They also recommend that Indicators 1.2, 1.3, and 1.8 (re-numbered to 1.9) be moved to a new Standard 6/SILC Autonomy.In addition, I support three other NCIL recommendations:For Indicator 1.4 make the following edit within the scope of a SILC’s responsibility:The SILC provides training at least once a year to its members. , CILs, and other providers, and other individuals eligible for services under Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, ?For Indicators 2.1b & c, make the following edits for clarity:Meeting locations must be physically accessible to all people with disabilities, including but not limited to physical accessibility and c. The SILC shall provide such effective communication and accommodations, including auxiliary aids and services, necessary shall be provided to make the meeting accessible to people with disabilities.New York anticipated and developed a due process in the event an impasse occurred during SPIL development. As a result, we support NCIL’s recommendation to add a new Indicator 2.1e:The SILC and CILs shall develop a process to resolve differences on SPIL content to ensure due process prior to SPIL submission.For Indicator 1.6, “The SILC has a code of ethical behavior…” I believe that a conflict of interest policy should be the main focus of this indicator. SILCs should have such a policy, present such a policy to new members at orientation, and send it out to all members on an annual basis to inquire if any changes have occurred in the last year, especially if they impact potential conflicts. Adherence to conflict of interest policies and procedures is required by law. It is verified during annual financial audits. In light of this, I do not understand why “codes of ethics” are being made a mandatory indicator for SILCs. The National Council of Nonprofits states, Does your nonprofit need a code of ethics? It’s useful to adopt a set of principles to guide a nonprofit organization’s decision making and activities… My thought is keep the indicator to what is mandatory (conflict of interest) and delete what is discretionary/optional/best practice (code of ethics).For Indicator 2.2b, I understand the indicator and the reasoning behind it. Many states had difficulty working through the requirement “which CILs are eligible to sign the SPIL?” But I really need to ask the question: Is this a long-term indicator/operational issue for SILCs that we are going to be struggling with two plans from now (or even longer)? Or is this really just a short-term WIOA transitional issue that will iron itself out, state-by-state, going into the next SPIL cycle? I think this is a short-term WIOA transitional issue that will work itself out. I don’t think this is an indicator. Are we going to ask, “Does the SILC have a process to determine the DSE?”For 5.1 insert the acronym SILC into the sentence for clarity.The SILC resource plan details funding included from:For 5.2 insert the acronym SILC into the sentence for clarity.If the SILC resource plan includes Title VII, Part B funds,…For 5.3 delete the word Council and replace with the acronym SILC for consistency purposes.The Council SILC has and follows policies and procedures…For 5.4 delete the word Council and replace with the acronym SILC for consistency purposes.The Council SILC oversees the assignment of duties to staff/personnel…Thank you for your consideration of my comments.Brad WilliamsExecutive DirectorNew York SILC10. Committee & Subcommittee Reports (continued)E. SPIL CommitteeSee ACL Approval Letter for the NY SPIL 2017-2019DHHS/ACL LogoSeptember 1, 2016Susan J. HogerSILC Chairperson111 Washington Avenue, Suite101Albany, NY 12210Dear Ms. Hoger:The Independent Living Administration (ILA) has reviewed and approved the State of New York FY 2017-2019 State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). In accordance with Section 704 (a) (1) of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) will approve disbursement of funds available to New York for its award effective October 1, 2016. During the SPIL cycle, the Statewide Independent Living Council, the Designated State Entity, and the Centers for Independent Living are responsible for ensuring that the SPIL assurances and activities are implemented in accordance with the SPIL and all applicable federal requirements.If you have questions related to your State’s SPIL approval, implementation or need for changes, contact your state project officer.We appreciate your continuing efforts to promote the independent living empowerment and community integration of individuals with significant disabilities in your state. Sincerely,Bob WilliamsDeputy CommissionerAdministration in Disabilities DirectorIndependent Living Administration10. Committee & Subcommittee Reports (continued)F. Consumer Satisfaction (July 6, 2016, Aug 9, 2016)Consumer Satisfaction Subcommittee July 6, 201611 AMPresent: Brad Williams, Nancy Klossner, Denise DiNoto, Bob Gumson, Sue RuffBrad reviewed the text of both the Methodology and the Consumer Satisfaction Survey. Center data collection will be through Survey Monkey.? A link and a excel spreadsheet will be provided for each specific center.? They will be fine-tuned in the next months.Brad explained the benefits of using Survey Monkey to the committee. Survey Monkey allows multiple surveys to be entered at one IP address. The centers will enter the data direct via their own links.? The methods that will be used to implement the survey are email/online, telephone, or direct mail.? This will allow for trend analysis that compares the responses received with the various methods.The committee discussed adding an option in the methods used for “facilitated survey,” this would be for those consumers who fill out the survey in a center with the assistance of staff. This could also be added as a stand-alone question, such as: Did someone help you fill out this survey?On the Excel spreadsheet, overall survey results will show the number of CSRs, the sample size, and the total completed surveys, which gives the response rate.? Total response rate is counted, and sometimes may even be zero.? The undeliverable rate is also counted.? The scale is rated from a 1-5, from strongly disagree, disagree, neutral, agree, and strongly agree.?Brad discussed how the survey will be scored.Nancy asked if there should be a place on the spreadsheet to count how many of the surveys were facilitated.? It was concluded that even though the number of consumers needing assistance will not be counted on the spreadsheet, it will be included in the Survey Monkey results. All yes/no questions on the survey that are not a part of the weighted score on the spreadsheet will be available and included in the survey results summary. Brad offered the option of reviewing the methodology online before the next meeting.? The subcommittee agreed.The next meeting will be scheduled via Doodle.Consumer Satisfaction Subcommittee August 9, 201611 AMPresent: Brad Williams, Amy Krebs, Nancy Klossner, Doug Usiak, Chad Underwood, Bob GumsonThe consumer satisfaction survey subcommittee met to discuss the progress of the survey.? There was discussion regarding how to word the additional question about consumers who need or use assistance in filling out the survey.It was decided that there should also be a broader question about what (if anything) could make it easier to complete and respond to the survey.? The survey will be revised to reflect this decision. Amy will make the change.It was noted that the survey has now been put on a web page instead of being distributed with a zip file.? This will preclude many of the problems that have come with the distribution of documents via an emailed zip file.The committee went over a summary of the survey and methodology.? It was brought to the committee’s attention that the methodology has been revised, making it more streamlined. The committee will read the revisions and comment if necessary.? The committee discussed the Spanish version of the consumer satisfaction survey, and discussed the possibility of having it translated into other languages as necessary. Survey Monkey is the main data collection method for the survey.? Instructions are provided to each center on how to use Survey Monkey.? If a center isn’t going to use the online method, they only need to use the Survey Monkey data collection link. All of the necessary documents for the centers are available via live links on the consumer satisfaction survey webpage.? Centers will notify NYSILC when they have completed the data input in Survey Monkey.? NYSILC can then view the data collection and enter the data into the Excel spreadsheet.? The final draft of the document will be sent to each individual center and to ACCES-VR.? The committee discussed having the survey translated into languages other than English and Spanish.? It was decided that a note would be sent out to the centers to determine their top three language needs.? The top three most common languages will be chosen, and the survey will be translated into those languages. The possibility of receiving comments in languages other than English was also discussed, along with some ways that might potentially be addressed, including the use of online translations tools. The reality is that it will be English, Spanish and a new third language. It was also suggested that the Consumer Satisfaction Survey webpage be kept private until it is ready to be made public.? Brad will look into this with the IT people.10. Committee & Subcommittee Reports (continued)H. Public PolicyPublic Policy CommitteeJune 6, 20162 PMCommittee members present: Brad Williams, Carla Lewis-Irizarry, Shelley Klein, Helen Fang, Marieta Austin, Ann Scherff, Meaghan Schoeffling, Sue Ruff, and Henry Nixon.The committee focused on legislative issues before the end of session. State planning activities have made it evident that transportation and housing are priorities for people with disabilities. This raises the question of whether or not transportation and housing should be addressed in a subcommittee, or dealt with in public policy. There is also the option of collaborating with the NYAIL subcommittees. Brad requested feedback on how to deal with this matter. The committee responded that NYSILC should collaborate with the subcommittees at NYAIL, rather than duplicating work at NYSILC. Meghan from NYAIL explained that there are very active housing and transportation subcommittees at their organization. There are both housing and transportation committee conference calls each month. The current priorities in the housing committee are visit-ability and a visitability tax credit; and the transportation committee is advocating that a certain percentage of taxis be accessible. If Uber is allowed statewide, the committee will try to insure that a certain percentage of the drivers provide accessible transportation. Fare parody for paratransit is another issue in the NYAIL committee, and they are working to insure that the fare for that service would be the same as the fixed route transportation. NYAIL and NYSILC are working on the same priorities, and this will facilitate collaboration. Brad added that in the event that there is an agreement to collaborate, pressing issues discussed in transportation or housing can always be brought to the NYSILC executive or public policy committees. Ann Scherff mentioned that she joined the NYAIL housing committee, and believes it is a very valuable resource for the council. Brad reiterated that this would allow council members to take informed positions, review information, and take action. Marieta asked about getting in touch with the housing and the transportation committees at NYAIL, and Brad emailed that information to the entire committee. Sue mentioned how important the transportation and housing issues are, and that they are active issues in the NYS Assembly and the Senate. She said that the majority of comments on transportation and housing come from Independent Living Centers around the state. The annual plan for Homes and Community Renewal also sees the largest amount of comments from Independent Living Centers. These issues are extremely important, and Sue is happy to see so many committee members taking an active interest in transportation and housing policy.Brad reminded the committee of the ever-changing nature of the NYSILC committees, and that they change as needed. The committee moved to a discussion of voting surveys, working with and educating pollsters, and choosing questions. In this presidential election cycle, what does NYSILC want to do with this survey? Use an in-state Survey Monkey or reach out to a pollster? With enough lead time Survey Monkey works well. The survey serves to establish political engagement amongst our peers in New York State, and the questions help to display emerging trends in voting for our population. The committee discussed choosing questions, and the options of using a pollsters versus using Survey Monkey. Brad recommended using a pollster, as the cost of doing so has come down over the years. The committee agreed. The committee would like to present this recommendation at the next full council meeting. The three pollster options in NYS are Siena Research Institute, Zogby Analytics, or Marist. NYSILC has a long history of conducting voter surveys. There was some discussion in the committee regarding the merits of each of the three pollsters. Brad recommends talking to all three and finding out which can offer the most for the least amount of money.Brad concluded the meeting by reiterating that he would send the committee information on getting in touch with Meghan from NYAIL regarding the transportation and housing committees to tie in crosstab questions important to these issues. The next meeting of the public policy committee will be in September, and/or facilitated online with voting survey questions.10. Committee & Subcommittee Reports (continued)J. Emergency PreparednessNYSILC Emergency Preparedness, July 19, 2016Fran P., Sue R., Michael H., Ken, Dave, Susan G., Phil, Beata1.???Minutes from May. Fran moved to be accepted, Dave seconded, approved.2.???DDPC grant – update from Dave; awaiting info on meeting between OEM and DDPC; awaiting Comptroller’s work; question on Red Cross training – not every Red Cross has their own access and functional needs training; he will let us know when dollars come through. He got an update during our meeting from DDPC, read it and shared that he will meet with members of our group in the future –to ensure content of his training is all inclusive and as broad as possible. Dave could meet in different areas of the state (including Westchester, NYC, and central NY) and will get back to us on face to face meeting times and places. 3.???Jim Flemming’s work?– Sue reported on his CAG visits – he has been to Western NY, Central NY, Adirondacks and is going to upstate areas (Saratoga, Albany, Schenectady area and Southern Tier in coming months).?? Jim’s role is pivotal in participation of disability community in various counties.? Susan G. raised cost of ASL interpreters and who pays because there has been county push-back but they want deaf community to have access. Dave pointed out that municipalities have to pay.? If a person who is deaf wants to come, they have to pay for interpreter.4.???Fran acknowledged FEMA’s directive that counties work with ILC’s. In Cortland – there will be a drill and panel discussion in September.? They have been planning with the Office for Aging, the Red Cross, and Access to Independence – to train service coordinators; their goal is to prepare individuals and service providers, and hold a mock shelter exercise. Their county does not have a designated large and accessible building for sheltering.? There is a new mini-conference center but not sure if it would be available.? A place at SUNY Cortland?? No shower facilities at BOCES. Where are shower facilities? Transportation to a site?? Sue will research and send connection with SUNY person in Albany, as they have someone who is designated to work with schools in the SUNY system on emergency planning. Fran provided info about Red Cross resources:? Bob Mueller from Red Cross sets up sites, Paula Huever from Red Cross works on getting equipment. Fran shared numbers with Beata as they are meeting with Red Cross tomorrow.5.???Susan G. – The person they have interacted in their county does not notify them of meetings in time, doesn’t send information, and it has been very hard and frustrating. They are moving forward on their own. They contacted the Red Cross and have developed a CAG priority plan.? They will look at offering an annex to the county plan, but they are feeling out of the loop.? Who will recognize and refer to the annex they create? Politics involved in some counties and it is hard to develop responsive connections. ?6.???Beata – meeting with Red Cross tomorrow – to discuss accessibility of shelters and they have offered to help with that; Onondaga County seems to be dragging their feet, County has nothing to share about the plan but are working on website accessibility and they encouraged them to link to individual training and self-preparation.? Should they talk with County Executive?? Have they worked with the county DOH? FOIA request for the old plan?7.???Dave’s thoughts – municipalities – villages, towns, counties all have responsibilities and he has worked with state organizations for villages, towns and counties.? He has told them that lack of access violates the ADA. Beata asked about Gerald Peterson (overseas Region 4) – he has told her counties are not required to have a comprehensive plan.? Dave will call him.? In counties, disasters cross town lines quickly and counties do need plans and we need to be included in the planning.8.??? Michael participated in Dave’s training last week in Westchester County. He has also seen reluctance in his county. ?9.??? Sue will share John Herrion’s (NYS Div. of Human Rights) phone number regarding Title II issues and what is covered in NYS law.John Herrion: 718-741-8332 Email: jherrion@dhr.?Next meeting: Tuesday, September 20, 2016, 10-1110. Committee & Subcommittee Reports (continued)K. Database WorkgroupDatabase WorkgroupAugust 4, 201610:00 amPresent: Brad Williams, Doug Usiak, Ken Dibble, Roger Benn, Brett Eisenberg, Fred Ayers, Lindsay Miller.Alan, John and Scott from the Center for Health and Social Research (CHSR).CHSR staff provided a live demonstration of a potential online product. A following link provides audio to the webinar session: . Previously, CHSR sent a link of an example of the web mapping function: . Committee & Subcommittee Reports (continued)L. Recruitment – Brad WilliamsNew York State Independent Living CouncilRecruitment CommitteeJuly 18, 2016 @ 11:00 AMCommittee members present: Brad Williams, Roger Benn, Zach Garafalo, Lindsay Miller, and Bob Gumson. There are three openings in 2017 for members who are terming-off of the council. Brad reminded the committee that George Hoehmann has been absent from his duties as a council members, and that it must be presumed that he will need to be replaced. He is very busy with his duties as town supervisor for Clarkstown. Joe Bravo will finish his three year term at NYSILC at the end of 2017, but that does not impact the committee at this time.Brian Daniels is to get back to Brad about what the Commission for the Blind is doing as far as their ex officio appointment. Bob stated that the commission needs a deadline for its decision. The committee agreed on mid-August as a reasonable timeline.That leaves four council vacancies, and sixteen individuals that have applied. It may help to try to organize the applicants according to appointment categories. There are six people from federal CILs that are applying for the vacancies. There are several from organizations serving those with disabilities, and several advocates. The committee discussed the merits of the applicants in some detail, and how each individual might fulfill the needs of the council. Increasing the ethnic diversity of the council was also a factor in the discussion. Brad reminded the committee that candidates who are state or federal CIL employees cannot be counted toward the necessary majority-disabled council, even if those individual have a disability. Seven candidates were chosen for phone interviews.August 8th and 9th were chosen as tentative dates for the phone interviews. Brad will send out an email to committee members to confirm exact dates and timeframes, then send out emails to the identified candidates for telephone interviews. Recruitment CommitteeAugust 8th and 9th, 20161:00 PMPresent: Brad Williams, Bob Gumson, Lindsay Miller (8/8/16). Brad Williams, Bob Gumson, Lindsay Miller, Roger Benn (8/9/16).Recruitment Committee members schedule scheduled telephone interviews over the two days with the following candidates: (on 8/8/16) Aileen Martin, Donna Gillette, and Aaron Baier, (on 8/9/16) Donna Williams, Daniel Fuster, Crystal Rivera, and Jason Ross.The committee recommended the following individual for appoint to the council in 2017 per category and term:Aileen Martin, CIL Representative, 2017-2019+Aaron Baier, Organization Serving, 2017-2019+Crystal Rivera, Advocate, 2017-2019+Daniel Fuster, Organization Serving, 2017 (unexpired term)Reappointments will be worked out for current members Marc Rosen, Doug Usiak and Zach Garafalo. The Executive Committee will review and approved these recommendations.10. Committee & Subcommittee Reports (continued)M. OutreachOutreach SubcommitteeJune 1, 20161 pmSubcommittee Members Present: Brad Williams, Roger Benn, Bob Gumson, and Lindsay Miller.The Excel Spreadsheet to collect results for the CBILCO projects is up to date. Rockland and Binghamton need to catch up. 2015 is completed as a year, and we are starting on year two. The first quarter, October – December, is complete for all projects, and 8 projects have the second quarter completed. Consumer service record information, organizational contacts developed, progress on funding will also be discussed. Western NY was awarded a $200,000 grant project which will begin on May 1st.For quarterly reports, there are ten October-September or January-March. Bob raised the subject of SED discussing SILC monitoring of some of the programs that NYSILC reviews with what is considered pass-through funds. Under the new Unified Grant Guidance there is a different set of requirements than under EDGAR. Brad answered that NYSILC is under ACL now and using Uniform Grant Guidance. EDGAR is not out of use with a lot of education related programs, and is sometimes in use side by side with UGG. Title 7 grant is a pass-through grant for SED. Preliminary audits are being started regarding the pass-through money. The auditors thought that in many respects that the SED did not have good written policy and guidance for the projects they administer. Bob said that a written set of documentation and procedures for how NYSILC administers funds is needed. Capacity building, SSAN, and administration of the NYSILC contract must be clear and consistent with holding recipients of awards to the stated deliverables in the contract. What they do or do not do must be documented, decisions that are made regarding whether deliverables are achieved must also be documented. This comes out of the most recent SED internal audit. The committee will have a role throughout the three year cycle, the public policy committee should have close scrutiny of the SSAN, and the council will periodically evaluate the deliverables in the NYSILC contract. Brad suggested that this review might take place in the executive committee. SILC is supposed to monitor the state plan and the objectives therein. Some of these monitoring processes are already in place, but they will need to be defined and documented. In the past it was of a review, but now there will have to be a formal process. Ideas were discussed regarding how the casual monitoring process can be built on to create a formal process. Councils and committees must design protocols and put them into practice. There are three or four centers that may need monitoring, and Brad will reach out to them.After some discussion between Brad and Bob about the progress of various programs, the idea of technical assistance was raised, and checking in at the halfway point to offer guidance when necessary.Pat Figueroa grants: Zach Garafalo, Lindsi Wickert and others are pursuing multiple sources of support to go to the NCIL conference. Brad has received an application for an individual, but it was missing some information and needed to be sent back. He expects several applications to come in from the group going to the NCIL conference. Roger asked for feedback on the request for 10-15 hours of volunteer time at a center in return for the grant. The next meeting will be scheduled in a Doodle. Bob asked if there should be a meeting related to the four centers in question before the next meeting. Brad suggested that he could speak with the centers and report back to the committee. ................
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