Guests: R. Elgie; E. Billips, WENY
Called to Order
The meeting was called to order at 3:05 p.m. by Mr. Proto, Chair.
Additions/Changes to the Agenda
There were no additions to the agenda.
Item 4d of the agenda, Health Department Request for Executive Session, was deleted.
Mr. Proto allowed the Youth Services Department to change time on the agenda with the Health Department due to staffing obligations that would not allow the Youth Services staff to attend until later.
Notices
Mr. Proto noted that Legislators should have received an invitation to the Recreation Partnership informational meeting to be held April 6th at 5:30 p.m. It will provide an update on their activities and priorities.
Tompkins Community Action
Ms. Dillon, Executive Director was introduced to new Legislative members. She informed the Committee that the agency’s fiscal year ended on March 31st; as it is a good time, new financial software has been installed and will be utilized.
Ms. Dillon provided a brief description of her agency and the financial association with the County. She spoke of the 16-17 programs operated by her agency and noted the early childhood development Head Start Program is the largest department. For the Ithaca City School the agency provides funds to operate the program within the school district and oversees their operations. In addition, the Committee was informed that as a result of a member-item funding, this summer there will be a renovation of the agency’s facility on Union Street in Dryden that will enhance services to the community similar to the work recently completed in Groton.
Ms. Dillon spoke of the Energy Services Department’s assistance in weatherization for low-income and disabled families and individuals. She reported NYSERDA, who receives funds collected by the Public Service Commission through energy bills, has provided funding for electricity use reduction as well as weatherization activities.
She reported Heating and Energy Program (HEAP) applications for individuals
not covered through Department of Social Services and Office for the Aging
are completed by Tompkins Community Action. Ms. Dillon said at this
time there is approximately 1.5 months left in the program and to date
they have exceeded their agreement for these individuals who could be classified
as the “working poor”. The program this year was conducted differently
than previous years due to staffing limitations and was done as group briefings.
Ms. Dillon reported a concern regarding the after school programs and
Boynton and Dewitt middle schools due to a funding loss. She indicated
that the five-year grant has expired and they were not successful in receiving
a grant from the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). A
foundation grant extended the programs through April 2006, and the Ithaca
City School District agreed to fund the program for the balance of the
year. Attempts will continue through discussions and re-writing the
OCFS grant to receive funds for this valuable program. She noted
that in some of the preliminary budget discussions at the school did not
provide any funding for the after school programs at Beverly J. Martin
and Enfield schools (not part of the TCA funding); the Board of Education
asked that these after school programs be put back into the budget and
asked what could be done to maintain Boynton and Dewitt’s after school
programs. There will be three budget scenarios developed for their
review.
In response to Ms. Robertson’s question it was noted that any child could attend these programs. Ms. Dillon said that recent studies indicate that seventy-five percent of those in attendance are low-income families.
Ms. Dillon reported the new housing services worker is Brent Garwood.
Ms. Dillon reported that $1.22 million was received from the New York State Homeless and Housing Assistance Program that will provide funding for construction of six permanent housing units at the Cleveland Avenue/Corn Street site. It is hoped to start in Mid July. The project will provide housing for six families and will have an on-site supervisor. There will be five two-bedroom units and one three-bedroom unit, and office space; with the potential of providing housing for twenty-six individuals (two individuals per bedroom). It was noted that Chartwell House on Meadow Street provides permanent housing for 12 males who cannot secure housing elsewhere due to previous situations. The average stay at Chartwell has been approximately 1.5 years.
Mr. Proto expressed his appreciation regarding Mr. Levine’s updates on TCA activities. He then asked what is the impact faced by the State and Federal Budgets. Ms. Dillon reported the Community Service Block Grant had initially been eliminated, however it was put back in the budget at a one percent decrease. In addition, the Head Start funding is reduced one percent and the weatherization program is scheduled for a reduction of thirty-three percent, an amount that will eliminate the program as the funds will not be sufficient to be effective.
With regard to Section 8 housing, Ms. Dillon said presently there are 798 vouchers, however the program is scheduled to have a funding cut. There is a two-year waiting list for the program; upon receipt of a voucher there are 120 days provided to find housing. The difficulty in doing so is the ability to find housing that coincides with the heating allotment. If not secured the vouchers are lost.
Ms. Dillon asked for a public representative on the Tompkins Community Action Board.
Cooperative Extension
Heating Solutions Group Update
Ken Schlather, Executive Director, provided a review of the program and activities for Committee members. It was explained that the Heating Solutions group was developed due to anticipated increases in energy cost. The group collaborated to develop a workable education program to assist in long-term energy consumption reduction. There have been surveys completed in several areas of the County, including downtown employees and large corporations, and churches. These survey sheets included 18 ways to reduce energy consumption through low or no-cost means and if additional assistance is necessary. Other local communities have expressed interest as well. In addition, funds have been provided to assist individuals who may not be able to afford these costs in implementing these low-cost/no-cost recommendations. This spring additional training will take place to continue reaching out into public sectors with this information. Mr. Schlather reported that a review of the surveys indicated 15 – 20 percent indicated they would be willing to assist in educating others. He noted this is an important part of the education process as individuals tend to trust those they know, which should make the program more effective. Mr. Schlather indicated that the average cost for materials to implement the recommended energy savings is $45 per household; the average annual savings is approximately $270. He said the challenge is to maintain interest now that the weather is becoming warmer; an training meeting will take place in the near future. He also reported that calls have been received from Maine, North Carolina, and Indiana to seek information on the energy reduction program as they would like to do something similar.
Ms. Carey reported that a subgroup meeting dealing with the mobile home parks and organizations took place and was led by two individuals from the Cornell University Department of Education. In addition the discussion included the possibility of NYSERDA assisting by installing new refrigerators in older mobile homes.
Alternative Land Use
Mr. Schlather reported he has a half-time staff member and two students working on the project including mapping of the County’s resources. The study will discuss various ways that the County’s unused land can be made more productive to increase the general wealth of the community. He noted that 2/3 of the undeveloped land in the County is not agricultural. Mr. Schlather noted that many recent purchases of land are from individuals outside of our area. This study will develop a template to determine potential landowner type and then make conclusions of land use capability. Students from the Johnson Graduate School will be using these templates in various applications as well as doing a market analysis. In addition, Cornell University is taking this study on as a long-term project to look at services available locally for those landowners desiring to do something. The intent of Cooperative Extension is to determine what services are needed, where services are lacking and what the roll of Cooperative Extension should be.
Health Department
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Hattery, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members, to recommend the appointment of Brooke Greenhouse to the Board of Health as an At Large representative, term to expire December 31, 2011. MOTION APPROVED.
Update on Environmental Health Fee Review
Mr. Andersson stated a fee survey is completed each year in March. He has received the information and will put into a report. Basic information indicated there were 36 responses to the survey. Seventeen charge a fee to water supply systems, six have a relatively small set fee, and the remaining 11 have a sliding fee. He said generally fees are low, with three charging more than $1,000 per system (Monroe, Westchester, and Tompkins County); and a very large county such as Nassau does not charge fee. He noted there are four counties who charge $100 or less, nine counties charging less than $500 and one other county has a fee higher than $500 but less than $1,000. It appears that Tompkins County’s formula is the most precisely calculated and accurate fee. He will be in contact with the other counties to determine how the calculations were determined for their fees as well as the range of fees.
Mr. Shinagawa noted the purveyors were concerned that less labor was required to maintain their system. He asked if any of the fee structures taken into account the labor factor. Mr. Andersson said he would be asking what criteria were used, including labor factors. Mr. Hattery inquired if there is any cost to monitor private wells and was told they do not. Mr. Proto asked whether information could be provided on how counties fund the departments. It was noted that most likely departments not charging fees are supported through tax levy. Ms. Robertson also inquired if it was possible to find out how many individuals are not on public water systems; Mr. Andersson said it is not a simple question to answer as there are many factors – many have a private well at home but are on community water supplies at work and elsewhere.
Open Burning
Mr. Andersson reported that the informational flyer has been completed and forwarded to all fire departments, police departments, and Cooperative Extension for their use. In addition, a letter providing information was sent to the Ithaca Times and Ithaca Journal for publication. The Department has had very few calls regarding this new law and some who have called are now willing to dispose of leaves and such through composting. Mr. Stevenson inquired whether the Department plans on tracking complaint calls related to burning and what action is taken to resolve complaints. He shared information that he had individuals calling him and they were directed to the Health Department.
Mr. Proto shared information that he passed the information to local newspapers for publications which was well received.
Note of Appreciation
Mr. Hattery spoke of an incident when he received a call from a constituent regarding a water problem. He contacted the Health Department after-hours number and was pleasantly surprised to receive a call that same evening from Mr. Andersson. Mr. Hattery expressed his appreciation for the prompt attention provided by Mr. Andersson and the Department.
Home Health Aide Survey Update
Mr. Proto informed members of the Committee the proprietary information was provided to enable members to understand the wage scales of these workers within the County. He stated at some point an executive session could be held to discuss the matter further.
Health Department Memo Regarding Flu Pandemic
Mr. Proto reported he was informed there is a timetable to be followed regarding the required plan submission to the State. Ms. Cole indicated that the plan will be constantly changing due to current events and requirements. She will be receiving additional information next month to assist with the writing of the plan and hopes to have a draft completed over the summer. Ms. Cole said a resolution will be presented to the Committee next month on this topic.
Department of Social Services
RESOLUTION NO. - AUTHORIZING ADDITION OF ONE HUNDRED PERCENT FUNDED 0.5 FTE REGISTERED NURSE POSITION –DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Stevenson, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members, to recommend approval of the following resolution. It was noted that this position does not require local funding and it is anticipated the Federal and State funding will continue. The resolution covers the salary from May 1, 2006, to the end of the year. RESOLUTION APPROVED.
WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services needs to increase by 0.5
FTE the staff it dedicates to serving the growing number of Tompkins County
residents who participate in the Expanded Non-Medical In-Home Services
to the Elderly Program (EISEP), and
WHEREAS, the Department will receive a mix of Federal and State reimbursement
which, combined, will cover one hundred percent of the additional costs
associated with this increase, and
WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services has a qualified employee,
presently working half-time in that title, who is willing to take on the
additional workload and hours, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services and Budget
and Capital Committees, That effective May 1, 2006 one of the Department
of Social Services’ 0.5 FTE position Registered Nurse – Grade 14 (565)
be increased to full-time (1.0 FTE, 35 hours/week.),
RESOLVED, further, That the Director of Finance is authorized to make
the following pro-rated 2006 budget adjustments to reflect this change:
Social Services Adjustments
REVENUE: A6010.44601 Federal – Medicaid
$10,005
A6010.43602 State – Medicaid
$10,005
APPROP: A6010.51000.565 Salary – Registered Nurse $14,396
A6010.58800 Fringes $
5,614
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
New York State Public Welfare Association (NYPWA) Testimony
Members of the Committee were provided with a written transcript of testimony provided at the New York State Assembly Public Hearing on the Impact of Federal TANF Reauthorization in New York State. Ms. Robertson spoke of the requirement to work for 30 hours to receive assistance. It was explained that it would require 30 hours or to have a work-experience position in some circumstances. Each case must be evaluated to determine what specific requirements apply.
Monthly Reports
The Committee reviewed the material provided. A brief discussion took place regarding the report and it was thought useful to provide a tutorial on Medicaid for new members of the Legislature. Mr. Proto will discuss the suggestion further at a later date.
New Initiative – Discharge Planning and Intake Assessment
Ms. Carey reported the Public Safety Committee is being asked to discuss a new initiative for discharge planning and intake assessment of the County’s inmate population with Sheriff Meskill, Offender Aid and Restoration, and others. She is hoping to have more details to report to the Committee in July. In response to Mr. Proto’s question on potential involvement of other Human Services agencies, she said there could be some discussions in order to understand if there is a duplication of services as well as ascertaining what services are needed, whether agencies are aware of the tasks performed by others, etc. During this three-month pilot program, a Department of Social Services staff will be responsible to collect the data for intake and discharge of individuals.
Family Custody Court
Ms. Carey spoke to the Committee about discussions to develop a Family Custody Court that will assign a social worker to the court in an effort to divert low-confrontational issues to Community Dispute Resolution Center; and utilize the more intense dispute resolution when more intense cases are required due to Child Protective Services intervention or other abusive situations. The individuals utilizing the Family Custody Court will have an individual from child support unit available to assist with that aspect of custody.
Youth Services
Budget Adjustment
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, to recommend approval of the following budget adjustment. BUDGET ADJUSTMENT APPROVED.
Revenue Acct
Title
Amt Approp Acct Title______________
7020.42797 Other Local Gov’t. $1,100 7020.51000655
Program Management Specialist
7020.42797 Other Local Gov’t. $ 429 7020.58800
Fringes
7020.42797 Other Local Gov’t. $1,529 7020.54442 Professional
Service Fees
Explanation: The County Youth Services Department current has
a contract with Workforce Development for JobLink services. At this
time the grant is being increased to purchase more staff time and services
from our department. Increasing position hours from 35 to 40 hours
per week for a 10-week period. Related fringe benefit costs on the
above salary. Consultant and/or services expenses needed while carrying
out work of above grant.
Program Highlights
Ms. Zahler introduced Nancy Zook, a sixteen-year employee who is responsible for the contracts with the not-for-profit agencies. She provided a pie chart that summarizes the 2005 appropriations for the Department that indicated how funds are spent. The chart showed eighty percent of the funds are spent on community activities, with the balance of twenty percent spent for planning and coordination.
Ms. Zahler indicated today’s report would be on the agencies, which utilize forty-three percent of the Department budget. She explained that the Department has the ability to review requests for various programs by agencies and does not have restrictions from the State limiting the type of programs operated. Upon determining the programs through a review process within the Youth Board, Program Committee, Legislature, and State, Ms. Zook would provide consultation and provide monitoring to ensure the local and State standards are met.
The Committee reviewed the written material that provided participation rates for the various municipalities within the County. It was noted that in some programs there may be participation by individuals who live outside of the immediate County but attend school within Tompkins County.
In response to an inquiry, it was noted although participation levels have held steady the past several years it is extremely low compared to the years prior to budgetary constraints when over 2,500 youth participated in twenty-one programs. Ms. Zahler noted the Youth Services Department tries to fund programs over a three-year cycle that assists in identifying needs and review proposals. During the three years a reporting and review of effectiveness of programs are completed. Ms. Zahler indicated the programs are not recreational programs or after school programs. The Urban 4-H program at West Village was developed primarily due to the high-concentration of low-income families in a geographically isolated community within the City. Ms. Zahler said there is a number of county-wide youth referred to PINS and Juvenile Delinquency; it is difficult to accurately determine if there is a cause and effect due to program elimination, however, Ms. Zahler believes it is part of the reason.
The Committee heard that a transportation survey of high school students is being conducted to request completion of an online survey to determine transportation needs. It is a partnership with Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit and the Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council to collect data to appropriately pursue effective programming.
In response to Ms. Robertson’s question about tracking individuals who have gone through many of the programs since early age, it was noted that much of the material has not been tracked, however at this time work is progressing that will provide the information. Ms. Zahler spoke of the collaborative effort between Youth Services and Department of Social Services to leverage ATI funds for the Primary School Family Support Program.
Upcoming Events
Ms. Zahler reminded members of the upcoming town hall meeting on Underage Drinking – What’s Our Community To Do? To be held April 27th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
The Youth Services “Orange Juice” book update that provides information for youth will be printed and distributed shortly.
Mental Health Services
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by voice vote by members, to recommend the appointment of Lee C. Lee to the Community Mental Health Services Board, term to expire December 31, 2007. MOTION APPROVED.
Chair’s Report
RESOLUTION NO. - SUPPORTING CHANGES IN MEDICARE PART D
It was MOVED by Ms. Robertson, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, to recommend approval of the following resolution to the full Legislature. Ms. Robertson thanked individuals who assisted in researching and writing the resolution. It was noted that the penalties for late application may be in excess of one percent. The Committee briefly discussed the matter and noted that Medicare Part D has become one of the most confusing medical issues facing seniors. Mr. Hattery felt the resolution could be bolstered by including the number of hours Medicard D has increased the County employee workload. While he understands the other issues are important he feels added work is the area most affecting the County government. It was noted that Lifelong, County Office for the Aging, and Mental Health services are impacted by the demands of the new program.
Mr. DeLuca, Mental Health Commissioner, shared information on the number of clients his department has helped in the transition to Medicare Part D. He has assigned an individual to assist clients in this area. Mr. DeLuca also said that sometimes individuals with disabilities are assigned a company automatically, which could result in coverage difficulties.
Mr. Hattery would like to see inclusion of a WHEREAS that would indicate Medicare Part D significantly impacts on County staff resources. In addition he would like to remove the RESOLVED indicating support for specific bills.
Mr. Stevenson was excused at this time (4:45 p.m.).
Ms. Robertson spoke of information indicating that approximately $500 billion could be saved if the program were operated by Medicaid rather than private programs.
A brief discussion took place regarding the portion of the resolution supporting the noted legislation. Mr. Hattery was not comfortable to support the particular bills and said he believes it is a policy issue.
Mr. Proto stated he would support the resolution to allow it to come to the full Legislature, but he had questions regarding some of the information contained. It was agreed that the Committee would revise the resolution and review prior to the full Legislature meeting.
A voice vote resulted as follows: Ayes – 3 (Legislators Proto, Robertson, and Shinagawa); Noes – 1 (Legislator Hattery); Excused – 1 (Legislator Stevenson). RESOLUTION ADOPTED
WHEREAS, Medicare Part D has provided many Medicare recipients with
necessary medications at a more affordable price than before the program
was initiated, and
WHEREAS, certain features of the program, however, have created unnecessary
complexity and leave Medicare recipients at risk of signing up for incorrect
or inadequate drug coverage, without the option to change plans, for example:
· During the plan year, after Medicare recipients sign up, insurance
companies are permitted to increase their copays, change their formularies,
and drop previously covered medications;
· After May 15, 2006, Medicare recipients can only change drug
plans once a year (during the six-week open enrollment periods) even if
the drugs they need are dropped from the plan, their medication needs change
to a drug that is not on their plan, or the copays go up, and
WHEREAS, because Medicare Part D is provided by private insurance
companies rather than as an add-on to basic Medicare, the decisions Medicare
recipients must make are overwhelming and confusing, and represent a barrier
to many people rather than a benefit. For example, recipients in New York
State must choose from among 47 different plans offered by 21 different
companies, and
WHEREAS, the resulting confusion about Medicare Part D, as reported
in the media and by local people, makes it hard for many people to meet
the May 15, 2006 enrollment deadline, putting them at risk of paying late
enrollment penalties, as follows:
· After May 15, 2006, there is a late enrollment penalty. If
a person does not sign up by May 15, they must wait until the next enrollment
period, which is November 15 through December 31, 2006. People who enroll
then will be charged a 7% penalty*.
· Those who enroll in 2007 (November 15 - December 31) will
have to pay a 19% late penalty.
· The cost continues to increase each year thereafter by 12%.
WHEREAS, basic Medicare has much lower administrative overhead (2-3%)
than private insurance companies (15-25%), and Medicare Part D as written
includes governmental subsidies to private insurance companies, and
WHEREAS, the Federal government is prohibited from negotiating on behalf
of Medicare beneficiaries for lower drug prices, and
WHEREAS, the Tompkins County Legislature wants Medicare recipients
to have prescription drug coverage that is as comprehensive, user-friendly
and cost-effective as possible, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services Committee,
That the Tompkins County Legislature supports Federal legislation to fix
the major problems with Medicare Part D in the short term, and correct
the program’s structural problems in the long term,
RESOLVED, further, That the Legislature urges passage of the Medicare
Prescription Drug Savings and Choice Act of 2005 (H.R.752 and S.345), which
would establish a standard drug-coverage plan administered by Medicare,
mandate price negotiation for prescription drugs, and save taxpayers an
estimated millions of dollars,
RESOLVED, further, That the Legislature supports other legislation
that would extend
the initial open enrollment period beyond May 15, 2006, waive the late
enrollment penalty, and permit beneficiaries to change plans if their prescription
needs change, or their provider changes the formulary or significantly
raises prices during the benefit year,
RESOLVED, further, That copies of this resolution be forwarded to President
George W. Bush, Senators Charles Schumer, Hillary Clinton, Michael Enzi,
Edward Kennedy, Senate Majority Leader William Frist and Senate Minority
Leader Harry Reid, and Representatives Maurice Hinchey, Sherwood Boehlert,
Joseph Barton, John Dingell, and Speaker Dennis Hastert.
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
Explanatory note: H.R.752 currently has 100 cosponsors, including Rep. Hinchey, and S.345 has four cosponsors to date (Durbin, Kennedy, Levin, Salazar).
Other legislation has been introduced in both Houses that would address
the May 15 deadline and other specific concerns, such as:
· S.3073 – Charles Grassley - extends initial open enrollment
period beyond May 15, 2006 and waives penalty during extended enrollment
period; permits beneficiaries to change their enrollment election once
during the initial open enrollment period
· S.1841- Bill Nelson- eliminates late enrollment penalty for
the first year, allows change in plans, and prevents employers from dropping
retiree coverage
· S.2183 - Jay Rockefeller – 30-day supply for dual eligibles,
pharmacists allowed to bill CMMS for drugs
· H.R.4685 – John Dingell - prevents plans from changing formularies
or increasing costs once recipients sign up, and would allow seniors to
change drug plans without penalty during the year
Office for the Aging
Ms. Holmes, Interim Director, apologized for not having notified the Committee previously of the desire to apply for the RESTORE grant. This grant will provide funds to assist senior citizens to make home repairs. It was explained this program compliments the other county programs such as those provided by Tompkins Community Action. The Office for the Aging locates eligible senior citizens and packages the appropriate services as well as funding for them. Consensus of the Committee was to approve seeking the grant.
Human Services Coalition
Mr. Proto indicated he has spoken to Kathy Schlather, Executive Director, to discuss the possibility of having one or possibly two special meetings with the various Human Services Agencies. Ms. Schlather indicated there are between 18 – 20 agencies, and some of the services provided overlap. Materials that would provide background information on the agencies would be provided in advance.
Executive Session
It was MOVED by Mr. Hattery, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and approved by voice vote by members present, to enter into an executive session to discuss a personnel matter. Mr. Proto indicated no action would be taken.
An executive session took place from 5:00 – 5:04 p.m.
Ms. Robertson was excused at this time (5:05 p.m.).
RESOLUTION NO. – APPROPRIATION FROM CONTINGENT FUND FOR TERMINAL PAY – OFFICE FOR THE AGING
It was MOVED by Mr. Hattery, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present, to recommend the following resolution to the full Legislature for approval. RESOLUTION ADOPTED.
WHEREAS, the Office for the Aging had one employee, Director,
terminate employment effective February 28, 2006, and
WHEREAS, the Fiscal Policy of Tompkins County allows for terminal
pay replacement from the Contingent Fund, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, on recommendation of the Health and Human Services
and the Budget and Capital Committees, That the Director of Finance is
hereby authorized and directed to make the following budget appropriations:
FROM: A1990-5400 Contingent Fund $6,494.76
TO: A6772-51000215 Salary, Director $4,672.49
A6772-5800 Fringes
$1,822.27
SEQR ACTION: TYPE II-20
It was MOVED by Mr. Hattery, seconded by Mr. Shinagawa, to approve the minutes of January 31, 2006 as presented. MINUTES APPROVED.
Adjournment: On motion, the Committee adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
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