Commission For Persons With Disabilities

Commission for Persons with Disabilities Regular Meeting Minutes September 1, 2016 6:00 PM Present: Chair Michael Menders, George Chaput, Raymond DeBlasio, Kevin Harkins, Cynthia Litton, Jane O’Friel, and Lisa Harrison Absent: Lottie Scott Others Present: Brigid Marks, City of Norwich; Nancy Lisee and Joyce Gootkin from Senior Resources; Zack O’Friel Call to Order: Chair Michael Menders called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM. Determination of Quorum: It was determined a quorum was present. Approval of Minutes: On a motion by Ray DeBlasio, seconded by Jane O’Friel, the minutes from the August 4, 2016 Commission for Persons with Disabilities (CPD) meeting were approved as presented. Citizen Comments: None Communications: None Old Business: CPD Brochure: Jane presented printed drafts of the brochure describing the CPD and offering local resources. Her son, Zack, created the layout of the brochure, based on information sent by various Commissioners and the CPD bylaws. Zack reviewed each element of the brochure. Michael read the brochure aloud to the CPD. Positive discussion ensued. The CPD expressed interest in having a link on the City of Norwich website. Michael will ask Attorney Driscoll for approval of the brochure. Sidewalk condition observations to report to Department of Public Works (DPW): None reported. City Transition Plan and Effective Communications Plans: No change was reported. Effective Communication Policy and Manual: Brigid Marks from the City of Norwich Human Resources Department notified Michael that the Commission must formally request an official communication plan. On a motion by Lisa Harrison, seconded by Kevin Harkins, the CPD unanimously voted to ask the Mayor’s office for an Effective Communication Policy and Manual. It was agreed Michael would write to Mayor Deb Hinchey with the request. Crosswalk Safety and Consideration: None reported. Kevin reported that he will reach out again to Gary Evans, Community Development Supervisor, regarding the potential dangers and lack of fencing at Uncas Falls. New Business: Presentation by Senior Resources: Nancy from Senior Resources presented a guidebook on local transportation for the CPD to use. She handed out informational brochures and explained the agency, Choices program, Medicare Savings Program, Benefits Checkup, Live Well Program, and Consumer Law Project for Elders. She also described Caregiver Respite programs. Joyce, the Consumer Information Specialist, mentioned that she is available to answer any questions. They also have health fairs throughout the year. The Commissioners asked several questions and thanked Nancy and Jane for a very informative presentation. They look forward to working with Senior Resources in the future. Taste of Italy: Commissioners discussed plans to have a table at the Taste of Italy on September 10, 2016. Jane will bring the brochures and informational materials provided by the Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut (DNEC). Kevin will contact the organizers of the event to get permission to have a table from 10 AM – 1 PM. Discuss Disabled Persons Access Problems: None reported. CT Cross-Disability and Lifespan Coalition October Candidates Forum: Michael gave a reminder that this meeting will take place October 5, 2016. Adjournment: On a motion from George Chaput, seconded by Cindy Litton, the meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM. The next meeting will be at 6 PM on Thursday, October 6, 2016 at Norwich City Hall in Room 319.