Mayors Committee for People with Disabilities
Regular MeetingHampton, VA · November 9, 2017
Minutes
Hampton Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities
Meeting Minutes
11/9/17
Members Present: Liaisons Present:
Barbara Stewart Steven Bond (Asst. City Mgr)
Pat Brown Marie Giles (for M. Mathews, Hpt City Schools)
Kennard Dukes
Story Smith
LaVerne Johnson
Larry Townsend Guests:
Evelyn Alston Debbie Apperson
Jane Hobbs Vivian Austin
Michelle Jones
Excused:
Ellen Shackelford
Absent:
Tammy Wright
The meeting was called to order at 3:04 PM by Vice Chair, Barbara Stewart. Roll was
called and guests were welcomed.
Treasurer’s Report for October 1-31, 2017:
Beginning balance: $16,308.23
deposits (luncheon) 600.00
Total (incl. deposits) $16,908.23
total expenses: (2,578.54)
Ending balance: $14,329.69
Liaisons’ Reports:
City Manager’s Office - Mr. Steven Bond gave updates for the following departments:
Emergency Management: Still waiting for a replacement for this department; the
weather is changing, so remind everyone to check their heating systems and smoke
detectors to be sure they are in working order; also, check on elderly neighbors, and
always keep your emergency kits handy.
Police Department: Update on RESET - the volunteer teams made up of citizens who are
trained to reach out and assist in neighborhoods where crimes have been committed;
they inform the communities of available resources to assist them in dealing with
trauma. This is a partnership between the victim witness office and Youth and Young
Adult Opportunities. If anyone is interested in being trained for this group, information
can be found on the police department’s website and the commonwealth attorney’s web
site.
Also, at the most recent meeting, the city council passed a resolution for “SHOCAP” – a
program that involves serious habitual offenders, dealing with youth who have
committed at least three serious crimes. SHOCAP is comprised of the commonwealth
attorney, Social Services, the school system, the police departments, Community
Services Board, and other agencies. These agencies will be able to share information
regarding these youth offenders, in order to help change the course of their lives. More
information can be found on the city’s website.
Soon the real-time information center will be up and running. This center will be able to
quickly compile data so that first responders will have the most up-to-date info on
crimes and other emergency situations. It involves a network of cameras and heavy data
from a variety of media throughout the city, providing visual data to the police who
arrive on the scene. Residents who have video monitoring systems in their home will be
able to link to the network as well.
Finally, car break-ins are still occurring; about 80% of the vehicles broken into were not
locked. Be sure to lock your cars and secure your important items. Citizens need to be
more proactive: if you see something, say something!
Fire Department: Chief Layman is retiring as of Dec. 1. At this time, Jason Monk is the
interim chief.
City Manager’s Office: The office has begun the budgeting process for the coming fiscal
year. A committee was established to examine the long-term sustainability of the city’s
operations. For example, the question was raised: if we started city government today,
would we do it the same way? Are there things that need to change?
Also, a letter was received by the council from Ms. Shackelford regarding the addition of
two individuals to this committee. The council will consider appointments in December.
Education - Ms. Giles stated that Mrs. Mathews had no updates at this time.
Parks and Recreation – No representative available
Hampton University - No representative available
Subcommittee Reports:
Accessibility – No report at this time
Luncheon Committee - Larry Townsend thanked everyone who participated in the
luncheon. Several people provided positive feedback regarding the program. The food,
the flowers, and the service were all good. There were nominees for each of the four
categories, with 3 people being nominated for the Helping Hands award. Also, the
committee again recognized and awarded Mr. Story Smith for his faithful service over
many years. He and his wife, Jeanne Smith, were both also recognized and awarded at
the City Council meeting last month.
The next newsletter (January 2018) will include pictures of those who were awarded at
the luncheon. Also, Mr. Townsend mentioned that the speaker, our own Hampton
University liaison, Ms. Morgan Russell, did an excellent job. Her words were brief but
powerful. Thanks to Mrs. Lynn Lesko for providing the braille and large print copies of
the program. This year, the live music was provided by Charles Stanley. The music
added beautifully to the atmosphere.
Finally, although the luncheon was a bit more expensive than other locations, but the
quality of the food and the service made it well worth the price. Mr. Townsend ended by
thanking the entire luncheon committee – and Mr. Bond - for all they did to make this
year’s luncheon a great success. The financial portion of the report will be provided at
our next meeting.
A few people commented that the actual printed programs were difficult to read – there
was not enough color contrast. Mr. Townsend stated that the luncheon committee will
meet soon to “debrief” and discuss any other comments, suggestions, or concerns. We
will be able to present a full report at the January 2018 meeting.
Transportation – no report at this time; HRT meets every other month; her next report
will be given at our January meeting.
Legislation – no report at this time; Mr. Bond stated that Molly Ward has returned as city
treasurer; all other legislators have been re-elected. Mrs. Brown mentioned that the
voting site for people with visual impairments worked well.
Newsletter – Mr. Townsend asked about the deadline for the next newsletter. The date
will be verified with Ms. Wright.
Publicity - Ms. Stewart shared info regarding the upcoming Holly Days parade, which will
be held on Dec. 9, rain or shine. This year’s theme is “Holiday Lift-Off.” Ms. Stewart
recruited a team of volunteers for the event, and more info will be forthcoming. Mrs.
Brown shared pictures from previous year’s parades. Mr. Townsend suggested that we
increase the budget to $400 for this year’s event. He moved, and Mr. Smith seconded,
that the budget be increased. The A check in the amount of $400 was given to Ms.
Stewart. In addition, Mrs. Brown will give a $50 gift card to the bus driver.
Old Business:
Mr. Townsend asked whether Mr. Smith plans to continue as a member of the
committee. Mr. Bond reminded the committee that one must be a resident of Hampton
to be a member. Also, it’s important to distinguish whether a person is an active
member for the purpose of voting and establishing a quorum. Mr. Smith stated that he
would like to continue as a member of the committee. Also, Mr. Dukes was present at
this meeting, so Mr. Bond will check to see whether Mr. Story’s and Mr. Dukes’ names
had been removed. Also, Mr. Bond reiterated that the new appointments to the
committee should be considered at the next council meeting in December.
New Business:
Versability will have their fundraising gala at the Newport News Marriott in City Center in
December. Mr. Townsend made the motion that 2 of our members attend the event at
$100 each. Mr. Smith seconded.
Ms. Hobbs stated that she will host the Christmas party for her clients with special needs
on Dec. 2 at the Alley in Newport News. She needs assistance with preparing the meals
on Friday, Dec. 1. Also more people will be needed to assist with clean up after the
event.
The meeting was adjourned by the Vice Chair at 5:02 PM.
** Next meeting – Thursday, January 11, 2018, 3:00–5:00 PM**
Agenda
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Hampton Mayors Committee for People with Disabilities
November 9, 2017, Hampton City Hall, 5th Floor, Community Development
Conference Room, 3 pm to 5 pm
Call to order & Establish Quorum
Agenda
1. Welcome
- Current Member (roll call)
- Visitors
2. Adjustments to the agenda
3. No September Minutes to approve
4. Treasurer’s Report
5. Liaison’s Report(s) –
- City Manager’s Office
- Education
- Codes Compliance
- Parks & Recreation
- Emergency Preparedness
- Police Department
- Fire Department
- Hampton University
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Subcommittee Reports(s) –
1. Accessibility
2. Awards Luncheon
3. Education
4. Legislation
5. Publicity / Public Awareness
6. Transportation
Old Business –
New Business –
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Hampton Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities
October 12, 2017 – Minutes
Meeting was called to order by Jane Hobbs, Chairperson at 3:10 pm
Chairperson opened the meeting by welcoming everyone in attendance.
Members present (6):
Evelyn Alston, Patricia Brown, Jane Hobbs, LaVern Johnson, Ellen Shackelford,
Larry Townsend
Members Excused (3):
Mary Fountain, Tammy Wright & Barbara Stewart
Liaisons present (2):
Steven Bond, Assistant City Manager & Margaret Mathews – (Hampton City
Schools, Director of Special Education)
Guests (1):
Donnie Tuck, Mayor
There were no September 2017 minutes submitted.
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Treasurer’s Report –
09/01/17 – 09/30/17 Beginning Balance: $14,158.11
Expenses:
9/18 – Embassy Suites 2nd payment (1,099.88)
9/28 – Postmaster (bulk mail acct.) (600.00)
TOTAL EXPENSES $1,699.88
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09/01/17 – 09/30/17 Beginning Balance: $14,158.11
Deposits: (quarterly disbursement) 3,850.00
Total: (including deposits) $18,088.11
Expense Total: 1,699.88
Ending Balance: $16,308.23
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Liaison’s Report –
City Manager’s office – Mr. Bond mentioned the Bylaws for the HMCFPWD’s in
regards to membership and non-active members and suggests the committee begin
reaching out to those absent by asking them of their intentions to continue
participating with the committee. He has given information regarding the activities
throughout the city of Hampton and encouraged committee members to peruse the
city web site for all festivities listed on the site. For further information and to
share the information, please visit: www.hampton.gov . In addition, NASA will be
celebrating their 100th Anniversary. For more information regarding activities at
NASA, please visit the web site at: www.NASA.gov/langley
Mr. Bond has given a brief update of the following city departments as a result of
misrepresentation:
Emergency Management – Since there are many storms across the region, it is
suggested that residents of Hampton continue to be prepared with emergency kits,
which includes having food and water for family and pets. Please check on your
neighbors and stay alert of potential hazards.
Fire Department – Beginning the 1st of December 2017, our current Fire Chief will
retire from his duties; as a result, a replacement will be announced at a later date.
Police Department – The Gun Gang Task Force are asking all citizens of Hampton
be aware of the crimes in our neighborhoods. It has been determined that vehicle
larcenies from unlocked cars, with guns are being used in crimes. The police
department urges everyone to be aware.
Education – Ms. Margaret Mathews reports Hampton City Schools Professional
Development has been completed for teachers. Data collection for the child count
is underway, as well as IEP (Individual Education Plan), and eligibility monitoring.
In addition, reading programs are being assessed and data compared. She also
shared the SEAC (Special Education Advisory Commission), has new appointees
and congratulated them. In addition, there are some staff position changes within
the department, but things are moving forward on a positive note.
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Chairperson Ms. Hobbs stated Ms. Vivian Austin and Debbie Apperson have met
the requirements to sit on the HMCFPWDs committee and suggests we move
forward with their appointments. It was determined that ELLEN
SHACKELFORD, acting secretary would write a letter to the city council
requesting their approval.
Codes Compliance – No representative available for reporting
Parks & Recreation – Ms. Lamanda Blanks, reported there were many activities
coming up for the residents of Hampton through the Parks & Recreation
department. She has encouraged engagement and provided an At-A-Glance
calendar of upcoming events. She also reminded the committee of the Christmas
Parade for December 2017. For more information regarding activities/programs
and deadlines, please visit the web site at: www.hampton.gov/parks
Police Department – Please refer to Mr. Bond’s report.
Fire Department – Please refer to Mr. Bond’s report.
Hampton University – No representative available for reporting
Subcommittee Report(s) –
Accessibility – As collaborating effort, Mr. Bond has assisted the accessibility
committee in assuring the power assistive device be installed at the Old Point
National Bank on Martha Lee Drive branch in Hampton. Thank you, Mr. Bond, for
your assistance with this endeavor.
Emergency Preparedness – Please refer to Mr. Bond’s report.
Luncheon Committee – Larry Townsend reports the luncheon committee with be
finalizing its’ choices of awardees after today’s meeting (October 12, 2017). Date
of luncheon: October 17th to begin registration at: 11;15am (Luncheon 12:00 noon
– 2:00 pm) – No cost to committee members, who sign up to attend, however a fee
of $20.00 for no shows. He stated there are people for all categories, and each one
will receive an award. The nomination committee suggests runner ups will receive
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a certificate. Please refer to the document Mr. Townsend passed out for your
review.
Legislation – No report.
Publicity/public awareness – No report.
Mr. Fred Thaggard , Tax Consultant – Not available for a report.
Newsletter – No additional information other than the focus on the luncheon.
Transportation – Ms. Pat Brown reports the importance for voting and that there
are still some issues at voting booths for the accessibility for voters with visual
impairments. She encourages everyone to exercise their right to vote. She stated
Ms. Newberry, and other residents have suggested the city of Newport News
should have financial support to restart a mayors committee in Newport News.
Ms. Brown reiterated the ADA drivers are not permitted to provide change, so each
rider is responsible to have the exact change for his/her service.
Paratransit Service cost is: $3.50 – Exact Cash Fare – Paratransit Single Ride Pass
– Bus/Ferry Light Rail Services, FREE FARE for all Certified Paratransit Users on
all HRT fixed route services. I.D. is required to ride free. For more information
please call (757) 222-6000 or visit: www.gohrt.com . You may also contact a
representative at the call center at: (757) 455-8010 or Administration office: (757)
222-6087.
Old Business –
Ms. Debbie Apperson and Ms. Vivian Austin have satisfied the preliminary
requirements of the HMCFPWD’s and would like to be acknowledged as members
of the committee. It has been determined that Ms. ELLEN SHACKELFORD,
acting secretary would send the request to city council for approval.
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New Business –
As a result of inactivity, or other circumstances, the following members’ names
will be turned in to the city council for removal:
Kennard Dukes, Mary Fountain, Jim Nieder, Jeanne Smith, Story Smith and Lynn
Lesko
- Ellen Shackelford agreed to contact Parents In Action, Inc., for they have written
a letter to the HMCFPWDs in regards to a speaker sharing information about the
committee’s mission. She stated she will report the findings at the next meeting.
Meeting was adjourned by Chairperson at 4:33 pm
**Next Meeting – November 9, 2017 at 3:00 p – 5:00 p**
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