Staff: K. Fuller, Deputy Clerk of the Legislature; P. Carey, D.
Badner, Department of Social Services; I.
Stein, L. Holmes, Office for the Aging; B. Crosby-Grinnell, Health
Department; N. Zahler, Youth
Services; Kathy Schlather, Human Services Coalition; Ken Schlather,
Cooperative Extension; A.
LeMaro, Facilities; R. DeLuca, Mental Health
Guests: A. Hovaguimian, Alcohol and Drug Council
Called to Order
The meeting was called to order at 3:00 p.m. by Mr. Proto, Chair. He thanked members for the opportunity to lead the Committee this year. He indicated that due to an out-of-town obligation that Ms. Robertson may be delayed or excused. Mr. Proto noted that normally the Committee will meet on the first Wednesday of the month.
Introductions
Members of the Committee and staff presented introduced themselves.
Office for the Aging
Appointments
It was MOVED by Mr. Stevenson, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present, to recommend the following appointments to the full Legislature for approval:
Office for the Aging Advisory Committee
Maxine C. P. Nicholls - term expires December 31, 2008
Constance Graham - term expires December 31, 2008
Resolutions
RESOLUTION NO. - REDUCTION IN HOURS – DIRECTOR OF OFFICE FOR THE AGING
It was MOVED by Mr. Hattery, seconded by Mr. Stevenson, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature. Ms. Stein noted this is to correct an error on the general resolution passed earlier. RESOLUTION APPROVED.
WHEREAS, the position of Director of the Office for the Aging
was reduced from 40.0 hours per week to 35.0 hours per week effective July
21, 2002 and continued through December 31, 2005, as part of a program
to reduce expenses due to budgetary constraints, and
WHEREAS, the need for reduction of hours of the position Director
of the Office for the Aging needs to continue from January 1, 2006 through
February 28, 2006, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services
and Budget and Capital Committees, That the hours for the position of Director
of the Office for the Aging (86/215) management labor grade P, should be
continued at 35.0 hours per week from January 1, 2006 through February
28, 2006,
RESOLVED, further, That effective March 1, 2006 the position will
revert to 40.0 hours per week.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
It was MOVED by Mr. Stevenson, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature. Ms. Stein reported this is funding initiated by Senator Winner and will be used to help fund the "last resort" fund of the program that assists seniors and low-income to make necessary repairs to their home for safety and/or weatherization programs. In response to questions about contractors, Ms. Stein reported they have utilized local contractors over the years the program has existed; when difficulties arise with any individual hired they are removed from the list of approved contractors. Later in the meeting Mr. Hattery inquired if the need to replenish the "last resort" fund was ongoing; Ms. Stein said there is a continual need to do so which is why the Department asks for Legislative initiatives. RESOLUTION APPROVED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Office for the Aging maintains a
last resort fund to pay for health and safety related repairs to homes
of low-income families, and
WHEREAS, client payments and subsidies are sought to cover costs
of repairs, and
WHEREAS, funding is often not adequate to cover costs without
further assistance from the last resort fund, and
WHEREAS, home repairs have been identified as a major need for
low-income seniors in two dicennial countywide needs assessments, and
WHEREAS, the last resort fund is running out of funds, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services
Committee, That the County hereby accepts this grant of $10,000,
RESOLVED, further, That the Finance Director is authorized to
make the following adjustments to his books:
REVENUE: A6796.43803 State Revenue $10,000
APPROPRIATION: A6796.54400 Program Expense $10,000
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
Point of Entry
Ms. Stein reviewed information on single point of entry for long-term care services. This was recommended several years ago and required the county to provide a single point of entry for all subsidized clients seeking long-term care services. In addition, private-pay individuals were encouraged to use the service, although it was not a requirement. At that time some counties, including Tompkins County, established an access unit for long-term care. The county's is the Long Term Care unit located at the Department of Social Services, serving clients of Medicaid, participants in the EISEP program, as well as some private pay and individuals in protective services for adults. There also exists a contract with the Fingerlakes Independence Center for consumer-directed in-home care.
Ms. Stein explained the county could be the first point of contact for the funds for single point of entry if they desire. She has encouraged Mr. Whicher to do so; if the County does not agree then the lead agency will be determined through a Request for Proposal process done at the State level. If the County does accept this role a decision on which department would be lead is necessary. Conversations between the County Office for the Aging and Department of Health, and Department of Social Services have taken place to discuss the matter. It was determined the Department of Health would not be the appropriate lead agency as it is a provider agency and there could be a conflict due to funds received from the State.
All clients would be provided with unbiased, objective, and consistent information about what is available in the county. All clients would be screened and referrals made based upon client choices. She indicated that not all clients are older individuals; many have disabilities, are brain injured, etc.
Ms. Stein said to have a private agency act as lead may result in a biased viewpoint of recommendations and that a government-based lead agency would be better received. In addition, it would enhance what is already in place. If the County did not choose to be lead agency a request for proposal would be prepared. She strongly urges the County to accept the role as it presently has a strong foundation for the program within the County for the program intended to keep individuals out of expensive nursing home care.
Ms. Stein provided statistics relating to projected increases in the senior population and asked that it be reviewed to have an understanding of this concern prior to budget preparation.
Ms. Carey noted that Point of Entry is driven by Federal funds that the State is attempting to access and pull down. The State Department of Health and Department of Social Services are the driving forces for the single point of entry for long term care. This will not only provide information on long term care, but will develop an eligibility model of how to determine when individuals should go into nursing facilities. Although she feels there is a good partnership within the County framework doing this at the present it will have to be reviewed once the State reviews the program. It was noted that discussions regarding the matter have included the possible development of an advisory board; those included in the discussions as well as potential members are the Health Planning Council, nursing homes, and provider agencies. These agencies and facilities are normally included in education and outreach.
Mr. Proto spoke of a recent article that indicated the State is looking to reduce the number of nursing homes. Ms. Carey said their committee is looking at this; nursing homes are the highest-cost for individuals, thus the State is reviewing the matter. Discussions at the State include the possibility of being able to transfer some individuals in nursing homes to home care that would be a less restrictive environment. She said the State would like to possibly have only future critical care patients in nursing homes; she does not believe there will be a significant effect on the County if this occurs. Mr. Proto asked that Ms. Stein provide a report relating home health aide salaries which was done several years ago. He thought it may be beneficial to review home health aide salaries again, he believes they are underpaid. Ms. Stein said as the population ages there will be more need for home health aides and the pay issue is critical.
Comments of Appreciation
It was noted this would be the last meeting for Ms. Stein, Director, who will be retiring by month's end. Mr. Proto express his appreciation to her for the work completed and contributions made to the Legislators.
Ms. Robertson arrived at this time. She also expressed appreciation to Ms. Stein for her work.
Mr. Proto spoke of a report from New York State that indicated a perfect review of the Office for the Aging.
Department of Social Services
RESOLUTION NO. - ACCEPTANCE OF JUVENILE ACCOUNTABILITY BLOCK GRANT (JABG) FROM NEW YORK STATE DIVISION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE SERVICES – BUDGET ADJUSTMENT – DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
It was MOVED by Mr. Stevenson, seconded by Ms. Robertson, to approve the recommendation of the following resolution to the full Legislature. A brief discussion occurred regarding the resolution, noting that changes to the Persons In Need of Supervision (PINS) regulations have required different tracking methods. This grant will allow training on a program that will be a valuable tool to provide data needed to properly track individuals as they go through the various departments/agencies. All information will be confidential with limited access. In response to questions, it was noted there is no reporting required as part of the grant acceptance and the Information Technology Services Department is aware of the program, which will run on the Department server only.
A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows: Ayes - 5; Noes - 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services applied to the New York State
Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYS DCJS) for a grant to address
an unmet need regarding early and consistent assessment of high-risk youth
identified by schools, Probation, Mental Health and the Department of Social
Services, and
WHEREAS, the DCJS has approved $11,683 in funding through the Youth
Risk and Needs Assessment Project through the Juvenile Accountability Block
Grant (JABG), and
WHEREAS, the grant will allow the Department to interface with other
departments and local agencies to procure a tailored risk and needs assessment
tool for use with high risk youth and juvenile offenders, facilitating
delivery of comprehensive and effective early intervention services, and
WHEREAS, use of the standardized risk and needs assessment tool early
in the juvenile justice process will increase early intervention in school
settings, stabilizing the targeted youths’ education programs and preventing
out-of-home residential placements, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee,
That the Department of Social Services is authorized to accept the Juvenile
Accountability Block Grant from the New York State Division of Criminal
Justice Services for the purposes of identifying and implementing the most
appropriate risk assessment services for the identified youth of Tompkins
County,
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance shall make the following
budget adjustment representing the total project cost:
REVENUE: A6010.43389 State: Other Public Safety $11,683
APPROPRIATION: A6010.54400 DSS Admin: Program Expense $11,683
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
Explanation: During a recent year approximately 502 school suspensions occurred in Tompkins County. An investigation showed that in a large percentage of cases of both these suspensions and the PINS (Person In Need of Supervision) petitions filed by schools the students in question had previously been identified as having mental health issues that were not being addressed. Students with mental disorders are less likely to succeed in school if they are subjected to school suspensions.
RESOLUTION NO. - INCREASE IN HOURS – STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND QUALITY COORDINATOR - DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by members present, to recommend the following resolution to the full Legislature. RESOLUTION APPROVED.
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Department of Social Services has a need
to increase the standard work week of one Staff Development and Quality
Coordinator position from 37.5 hours to 40.0 hours per week, and
WHEREAS, funding for this increase in hours was included in the 2006
budget and no further funding is required, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services
and Budget and Capital Committees, That the standard workweek for one position
of Staff Development and Quality Coordinator (12-681) shall be increased
from 37.5 to 40.0 hours per week effective January 1, 2006.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
Mr. Proto suggested questions regarding the monthly reports be addressed to Mr. Herden who is responsible for their preparation. Ms. Robertson requested clarification of the graphs provided.
Mental Health
It as MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by members, to recommend the following appointment to the full Legislature for consideration.
Community Mental Health Services Board
Nancy Rosen - term expires December 31, 2009
Community Mental Health Services Board
Anne Brous - term expires December 31, 2009
Substance Abuse Subcommittee
Anne Brous - Community Mental Health Services Board representative;
term expires December 31, 2009
Mr. DeLuca told members of Committee the structure of the advisory boards within Mental Health.
RESOLUTION NO. - AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO A FIVE-YEAR LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE ALCOHOL & DRUG COUNCIL OF TOMPKINS COUNTY, INC.
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, to recommend the following resolution to the full Legislature. It was noted this is a renewal lease agreement with an annual three percent increase. Mr. DeLuca and Ms. Hovaguimian spoke of the benefits of the agency being within the Mental Health building, including sharing the same Medical Director.
A voice vote on the motion resulted as follows: Ayes - 5; Noes - 0. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Alcohol & Drug Council of Tompkins County, Inc.,
currently has a lease agreement with Tompkins County for the rental of
office space in the Mental Health building, 201 East Green Street, Ithaca,
and
WHEREAS, this lease agreement will expire on March 31, 2006,
and
WHEREAS, the Alcohol & Drug Council of Tompkins County, Inc., would
like to renew the lease for an additional five-year period, now therefore
be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services
and Facilities and Infrastructure Committees, That the County Administrator
or his designee is hereby authorized to sign a lease agreement with the
Alcohol & Drug Council of Tompkins County, Inc. for a five-year period
running from April 1, 2006 through March 31, 2011, with an eighteen-month
notice escape clause.
The lease includes rent, cleaning, utilities, and maintenance.
The rates are as follows:
April 1, 2006 - March 31, 2007, $92,250;
April 1, 2007 - March 31, 2008, $95,018;
April 1, 2008 - March 31, 2009, $97,868;
April 1, 2009 - March 31, 2010, $100,804; and
April 1, 2010 - March 31, 2011, $103,828.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-15
Explanatory Note:
1. Action Requested: Authorization to renew lease agreement with the
Alcohol & Drug Council of Tompkins County, Inc. for a five-year period.
2. Background information: The Alcohol & Drug Council leases a
total of 7,234 square feet of the fifth level of the Mental Health building
located at 201 East Green Street. The Council uses the space to operate
an alcohol and drug abuse outpatient treatment clinic and also provides
education and prevention services. The proximity to Tompkins County run
mental health services enables greater integration of treatment and care.
One example of this is the Mental Health Department and the Council use
a shared Medical Director for further integrated treatment and efficiency.
The Council has leased space at the Mental Health building since 1991.
3. Budgetary implications: No negative budget impact. The lease rate
for 2006 reflects a 3% increase over the previous year, as well as for
each subsequent year (2007 to 2011). Revenue generated is used to help
offset ongoing debt service payments on the Mental Health building construction
capital project.
Youth Services
Budget Adjustment
It was MOVED by Mr. Hattery, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present, to approve the following budget adjustment. ADJUSTMENT APPROVED.
Youth Services
Revenue Acct
Title
Amt Approp Acct Title(s) ___________
7020.42797 Other Local Government $9,998
7020.54442 Professional
Service Fees
7020.44820 Programs for Youth $5,792
7020.54442 Professional
Service Fees
Explanation: The County Youth Services Department has been awarded a Workforce Development grant to provide support to a collaborative of youth agencies offering career awareness, academic support, and work readiness services to low-income youth for the period of October 2005 - June 2006. The total grant is for $31,117. Some funds were used in 2005 with the rest being expended in 2006. This accurately reflects the amount to be expended in 2006. The Drug Free Communities Grant total amount needs to be increased to accurately reflect the amount to be brought into the 2006 budget.
Work Program Discussion
Ms. Robertson inquired about the overlap of departments involvement with youth programs. Ms. Carey said she has met with Ms. Mattick of Workforce Development, Women's Opportunity Center, and the Department of Social Services' to determine that employment program efforts are coordinated, efficient and effective. Discussions will include who should do what, where funding is coming from, what are the efficiencies to put in place to avoid duplication of services, etc.
Ms. Zahler said her department has worked for the past fifteen years to identify and bring together all programs for youth employment and critical educational services. Information is shared to avoid duplication and provide information to allow youth to obtain employment. She and other departments have a seat on the Workforce Investment Board who determines how to best utilize the funds. Ms. Carey believes the discussion will become more detailed as information on the Governor's budget is received; knowing where the funds will be sent from the State will assist in planning.
Youth Gang Update
The Committee was provided basic information regarding various agencies discussions relating to youth gang activities within the County. A meeting was held with attendance of approximately 40 individuals from Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC), schools, pubic safety representatives, and private and public agencies. It was indicated that at this time there are gangs operating in the Dryden and Ithaca area, although there are conflicting reports in newspapers. Presently there is a lot of low-level activity occurring. Initiation activities, though illegal, may not be reported as gang-related as it is part of the initiation process. These activities may include physical violence or sexual activities. On January 30 a gang-awareness training program took place with over 100 participants, including thirty school personnel as well as others in the community. In addition, the City of Ithaca is developing a program for rapid response to graffiti. It is hoped that by taking a pro-active approach the gang influence could be diminished.
The discussion continued, during which it was noted that Dryden has tangible evidence of gang-related activities. The local police officials took a pro-active approach, making it clear that such activity would not be tolerated within the municipality. Ms. Robertson has been involved with the discussions related to gang activity and stressed the importance of communication with public safety individuals during the development of programs.
Health Department
Building Issues
Ms. Grinnell-Crosby introduced herself to the new members of the Committee. She noted that there are two building-related incidents to bring to their attention. On two separate occasions the building was without heat. The first was on January 17 when a valve malfunction caused the system to fail; temperatures were in the fifties, making it difficult for employees to work; the second was when Cayuga Medical Center turned off the steam to fix a cracked line.
Update on Home Health Aide Salaries
Ms. Grinnell-Crosby reported surveys were distributed to the appropriate agencies to obtain information relating to salary levels. She anticipates having the information available for the next meeting of the Committee on March 1st.
Water System Fees
Members of the Committee were provided with information relating to water system fees. Mr. Proto explained a resolution was passed by the Legislature to approve the fees, however, at this time the Bolton Point Water System is protesting the fees as approved. He expects further discussions relating to the information provided will take place and asked members to read the material.
Avian Flu
Ms. Grinnell-Crosby reported that the County has a draft plan developed in the event of a pandemic. Ms. Cole, Public Health Director, is presently in Albany and will be working on the plan. The State plan is expected to be available soon. She said the plan will encourage individual preparedness in the event of a pandemic. It was noted that should one occur, the County has limited resources and would require outside assistance from State and Federal agencies. In response to a question by Ms. Robertson, it was noted that all counties throughout the State would require outside assistance.
General Discussion
Mr. Hattery asked that appreciation be extended to Mr. Andersson for taking the time to contact him in the evening to answer a question he had.
Mr. Proto inquired about the numerous positions that were unfilled at the end of 2004. Ms. Grinnell-Crosby indicated that the majority are filled, with the last ones expected to be offered in the near future. Included in the new hires was the return of former Bio-Terrorism Coordinator, Carol Griep, who will now be a Community Health Nurse in the Children with Special Care Needs Unit.
Mental Health Continued
Single Room Occupancy
Mr. DeLuca provided an update on the Single Room Occupancy (SRO) project that will secure thirty beds. The project will be built on property located between Third and Fourth streets, and he believes the closing may be taking place this week. Although consideration had been given to include the SRO as part of the Cayuga Green project, it was decided to go with the other property as it would be better for the potential funding. The property chosen is presently not taxed and will improve the neighborhood as it presently has abandoned properties. Mr. DeLuca explained how the administration will be done by Lakeview, noting there is a good working relationship between them and the County.
Human Services Coalition
UrgentRx
Ms. Schlather announced that the UrgentRx program will begin tomorrow. This program is a collaboration between the hospital and Kinney Drugs that will provide free prescriptions for certain acute conditions, to individuals without insurance coverage or financial means to purchase them. Funding has been provided by United Way and the Brooks Family Foundation.
Emergency Shelter Bednights
Ms. Schlather provided data regarding emergency shelter bednights, including information relating to individuals as well as families. Ms. Carey said the Department of Social Services also provides shelter that would not be included in the data received; at times it is necessary to provide shelter for individuals not allowed in the other facilities due to behavior or sexual offender status.
FEMA Grants
Ms. Schlather reported on the distribution of FEMA Grant funds. The majority of the funds go to the local food banks, with funds also being distributed to the Red Cross, Loaves and Fishes, and the Advocacy Center. This year the grant was for $35,000 with the total requested by agencies of $40,000.
Chair's Report
Mr. Proto informed the Committee he has asked that Departments and agencies wishing to submit agenda items in advance, and action items should include information relating to purpose, history, and funding.
He then asked that members review the 2005 work plan, and plan on coming back in March to work on a suggested 2006 work plan.
Mr. Stevenson was excused at this time (4:46 p.m.).
Mr. Proto asked that the Committee review the meeting schedule and inform him as soon as possible of potential conflicts so that it is certain a quorum would be present for all meetings.
Liaison/Advisory Board Appointments
The following liaison and advisory board appointments were made. Ms. Robertson indicated she expressed her desire to be appointed to the Board of Health and asked if the information had been made known to Mr. Proto. Ms. Fuller indicated he had been provided with Mr. Stevenson and Ms. Robertson’s e-mails immediately upon receipt.
ADVISORY BOARD APPOINTMENTS
Board of Health - voting member - Mike Hattery, term to expire December 31, 2007
Personal Emergency Response Service Advisory Board - voting member - Greg Stevenson, a term to expire December 31, 2007
Greater Ithaca Activities Board - voting member - Nathan Shinagawa term to expire December 31, 2007
Recreation Partnership - voting members- Frank Proto, Martha Robertson alternate (will request another voting member and alternate as outlined in the Bylaw revision passed last year) term to expire December 31, 2007.
Cooperative Extension (Not a County Advisory Board) - 2 voting members - Chair appointments, Duane Randall; (HHS asked for Greg Stevenson for second seat)
LIAISON APPOINTMENTS - NON-VOTING
Alcoholism Council of Tompkins County - liaison - Greg Stevenson
Community Mental Health Services Board - liaison - Nathan Shinagawa
Health Planning Council - liaison - Nathan Shinagawa
Homeless and Housing Task Force - Nathan Shinagawa (Martha Robertson
plans to attend when possible)
Human Services Coalition - liaison - Mike Hattery
Office for the Aging Advisory Board - liaison - Martha Robertson
Senior Citizens Council - Lifelong - liaison - Nathan Shinagawa
Tompkins Community Action - liaison - Frank Proto
Tompkins County Youth Board - liaison - Martha Robertson
Approval of Minutes of December 7 and 20, 2005
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Hattery, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present to accept the minutes December 7 and 20, 2005, as submitted.
Adjournment: On motion, the Committee adjourned at 5:01 p.m.
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