Staff:  K. Fuller, Deputy Clerk of the Legislature; P. Carey, Department of Social Services; I. Stein,
Office for the Aging; A. Cole, J. Andersson, Health Department; N. Zahler, Youth Services; N.
Burston, Human Services Coalition; Kathy Schlather, Human Services Coalition; Ken Schlather, Cooperative Extension; S. Whicher, County Administrator

Guests: J. Lydon, P. Stonebreaker, Tompkins County SPCA

Called to Order

 The meeting was called to order at 10:30 a.m.

Discussion of State/Federal Bills

 Ms. Kiefer requested a discussion regarding alterations to the federal sustainable agriculture and food stamp programs.  She noted that Congress’ Agriculture Committee will be bringing forth a bill tomorrow that urges further cuts, including the food stamp program.  She is concerned that there is no assigned individual at the County level to follow items such as this that have a local impact.  Ms. Blanchard believes that it is a matter to be taken up by individual departments.  Ms. Stein said she receives regular information on pending legislation and believes that the Department of Social Services reviews this topic regularly.  Ms. Robertson believes that individual departments receiving funding are apprised of changes in advance, and sometimes they bring such changes to the attention of the relevant committee.

Office for the Aging

 Ms. Robertson said she had heard of Ms. Stein's intent to retire in the spring of 2006 and expressed appreciation to Ms. Stein for the years of service and dedication to the county and its senior citizens.  She noted Ms. Stein would be hard to replace.

 Budget Adjustments

 It was MOVED by Mr. Winch, seconded by Ms. Kiefer, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members, to approve the following budget adjustments.

Office for the Aging
Revenue Acct           Title            Amt  Approp Acct  Title(s) __________________
6787.43803 State Revenue      $10,000.00 6787.52219  PERS Units
6793.44772 Federal Revenue    $  4,065.00 6793.51000559  Salary
6793.44772 Federal Revenue    $  1,585.00 6793.58800  Fringes
6793.44772 Federal Revenue    $  7,000.00 6793.54491  Subcontract
6790.51000 Salary       $  2,054.00 6790.52206  Computer Equipment
6790.51000 Salary       $  1,467.00 6790.52210  Office Equipment
6790.51000 Salary       $     500.00 6790.54330  Printing
6790.51000 Salary       $     500.00 6790.54452  Postage
6790.51000 Salary       $     200.00 6790.54472  Telephone
6790.51000 Salary       $     500.00 6790.52230  Computer Software
6790.51000 Salary       $  1,500.00 6790.54402  Advertising
6790.51000 Salary       $     930.00 6790.54491  Subcontract
6790.58800 Fringes       $  2,984.00 6790.54491  Subcontract
6790.54400 Program Expense   $      50.00 6790.54491  Subcontract
6784.44772 Federal Revenue    $  7,643.38 6784-54491  Subcontract

Explanation:  Grant-in-Aid grant permits purchase of 64 new PERS units; Revenue increase for HIICAP Program; Readjustment of budget in line with modified plan for project; Revenue increase for Cash-in-Lieu for Foodnet.

Budget Transfers

 Ms. Stein explained the transfers are a result of State monies received that allow a shift of local dollars from the Salary line for long-term care programs.

Approval to Seek Bids and Level of Involvement - PERS Units

 Ms. Stein said this is the first time bids are required for the PERS units as the previous amounts have not exceeded the required dollar amount as specified by policy ($10,000).  She would like to have Purchasing make the final determination regarding award of bid.

 It was MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Winch, to approve seeking bids for PERS units, with Purchasing making a determination of the final bid award.  Mr. Winch asked if the various purchases are for the same units and was advised that the original supplier no longer produces the units.  The units chosen by Emergency Response were not found to be satisfactory.  At this time a supplier has been located who appears to have comparable equipment; additional suppliers are being sought for bid purposes.  Consensus of the Committee was to approve seeking of bids as noted above.

Tompkins County SPCA

 Mr. Jeff Lydon, newly appointed Director, introduced himself to the Committee.  He stated that the shelter is the only one in the country that will not turn away or refuse to treat animals.  He explained this is done in part thanks to the numerous volunteers and contributors.  Mr. Lydon hopes in the near future to provide an off-leash dog park, expanded education and workshops, obedience classes, and other appropriate programs.  He reported animals rescued from the areas devastated by Hurricane Katrina are coming to the shelter, and a veterinarian will be on-site supported by funding from a private foundation.

 Mr. Lydon feels the shelter is presently in a transitional mode, and he wants to utilize his training in the human service field to complement work with animals.  He provided statistics relating to the correlation of animal abuse and domestic abuse of family members, which indicate overwhelmingly that where there is one the other is often found.  Mr. Lydon sees the potential of integrating animal/human issues to help with prevention in both areas.  He will be seeking a model that would be applicable to work with other service providers in the County.  Thus far, he has met with individuals in the Human Services Coalition to seek assistance and he believes collaborative efforts could be cost-effective.

 Ms. Blanchard thought this insight was fascinating and asked if presently any actions are taken by their agency when animal abuse is discovered and children are present in the home.  Mr. Lydon said while it does not happen frequently he believes there is a way to make use of an undeniable pattern without being overly invasive.  A suggestion was made to use peace officers as mandated reporters; Mr. Lydon said he would have to investigate to see if this can be done.

 Mr. Whicher asked if GPS locaters are in vehicles and was informed they are not at this time.  Mr. Whicher sees this as necessary to properly identify the location of animal and potential human abuse.

 Ms. Robertson said she had not heard of this topic previously but believes it makes sense, and the pattern could be part of efforts to stem abuse.

 Ms. Carey said the National SPCA has a child protection division; their website provides research and program models regarding the correlation of the two issues.  She has been aware of the statistical information and looks forward to the work Mr. Lydon is going to undertake.

 Ms. Robertson spoke of being cautious, that perhaps working with the animal and viewing other situations would be appropriate.  Ms. Carey responded there is training available concerning what serious indicators to look for; she noted anyone who suspects abuse in a home may call in a report to the child- abuse hotline.  Mr. Lydon spoke of his experiences in Massachusetts where women would not leave an abusive situation due to fear for their pet's safety.  He spoke of taking animals into animal shelters for their protection until they could be reunited with the owners.

 Mr. Proto felt it would be useful to have another "set of eyes" to observe, and noted that the local utility company already acts as part of a neighborhood watch for suspicious vehicles and individuals.

 Ms. Kiefer expressed enthusiasm about the topic.  She then asked Mr. Lydon if he had reviewed the historical information relating to possible licensing of cats.  He had not yet done so.  Mr. Lydon spoke of dog enumeration (census) being conducted by towns.  Ms. Stonebreaker, Business Manager for the SPCA, said they hope to have a new canine census to assist with vaccinations.  With regard to cat licensing, it had been discussed several years ago as a possible way to assist with cat control.  It was reported that all of the county's towns contract with the SPCA for animal control with only minor differences in each contract.

 Mr. Winch said the information was intriguing.  He then spoke of the possibility of working with the Sheriff's Department and State Police as well in this venture.  Mr. Winch described past instances of individuals using the Connecticut Hill area for ritualistic animal sacrifice.

 Mr. Proto was pleased to hear about outreach and said the Town of Caroline has discussed the need for education, particularly regarding individuals providing training to guide dogs.  He said it is not well-known that individuals training these animals are not required to license them.  Ms. Stonebreaker said the SPCA licensed these dogs at no charge.

 Ms. Robertson stated the contract with the County for rabid animals would be coming forward shortly.  She also spoke of receiving a complaint from a resident who was bitten and did not feel the town justice handled the matter appropriately.  Mr. Lydon said while he cannot speak specifically to this matter it was his understanding there were contradictions in the case that resulted in a dismissal of any charges.  He feels that there is a need to work closely with all areas of law enforcement.

 Ms. Kiefer inquired whether the recent Green Tour included the SPCA building.  Mr. Lydon said one bus-load and several individuals were present for the tour.  At this time he spoke of a siding problem that is being repaired.  He hopes to advertise the building's green value for next year's tour when all repairs are completed.

Social Services Department

Wheels to Work Program

 Ms. Carey, Commissioner, provided basic information on the Wheels to Work program that provides loans to individuals to obtain vehicles for transportation for employment.  There is a two-year maximum $3,000 loan, which must be paid back on a schedule.  Mr. Winch asked whether program participants get any guidance with regard to the value of a particular automobile and how to purchase one that will be safe and economical.  Ms. Carey said the program is managed as part of case management.  The case workers map out the individual's ability to continue to be employed and discuss how extensive repairs and gasoline will defeat the purpose of having transportation.  Ms. Carey said attempts are made to determine what the vehicle being considered is, whether it is appropriate, has it been looked over by a qualified technician, etc.

Mr. Winch inquired about the thirty percent loss rate on vehicles repossessed due to lack of payments.  Ms. Carey said upon default the Credit Union files necessary paperwork in the same manner as a regular loan process.  She said although the thirty percent seems high, given this target population, this is a low figure.  She noted they are working to determine the most significant factors for those who do not repay the loans.  In addition, the credit unions provide monthly status reports; individuals who are behind are contacted and notified of the importance of meeting the obligation to pay the loan.  Mr. Winch spoke of Mr. Penniman's comments regarding individuals missing credit card payments due to increases in gasoline prices.  Ms. Carey said it is difficult for these individuals who are on low incomes and that perhaps people will make a choice of utilizing bus passes and alternative transportation.

Mr. Proto said the thirty percent default is higher than in the standard market and asked for a determination of why the credit unions feel this is low.  In addition, he asked how mechanics used to examine the vehicles are chosen. He feels there is the possibility of falsely inflating a price when it is known there is the possibility of a high figure of $3,000.  Ms. Carey said the individuals go through the Credit Union and a review is done just like for a conventional loan.  Mr. Winch noted Cornell Cooperative Extension has a money management program and a great deal of time is spent on positive actions to take.

Ms. Robertson said she normally would have a mechanic inspect a used vehicle and asked if funds are available for this purpose.  Ms. Carey said while some funds could potentially be used for this, it is the goal to teach responsibility and planning.  Ms. Blanchard inquired about funding for insurance and was advised that Community Solutions at times has funding for an initial premium payment but does not cover the entire cost of insurance.  Mr. Proto suggested having a county-contracted garage available for all inspections and repairs.  Ms. Carey said discussions with the State are taking place relating to the recommendation for pre-choice.  Ms. Carey noted the key to the program's success is case management.

Monthly Reports

 The Committee reviewed the monthly reports that indicated the Department is below budget at this time.  It was noted, however, that "Juvenile Delinquents" is over budget, and it is an area that could significantly increase due to factors that cannot be controlled.  This line item can be utilized for a youth who is on a PINS detention.  This year there have been three youth under the age of 17 who are in detention and a higher level of placement such as McCormick or Lou Gossett Center; the County is responsible for payment.  Such secured facilities can cost as much as $150/day.  Ms. Carey noted that all attempts are made to avoid such placements, however, when it is court ordered there is no recourse.  In addition, foster care can also be expensive depending on the level of care required for children.  A conservative figure for these costs is $70/day.  If there is institutional placement such as McCormick/Gossett for minor children, the cost varies from approximately $60,000 to $80,000/year.

 Mr. Whicher inquired about the MIS figure, stating he believes it is lower.  Ms. Carey will review this information.

In response to a question, Ms. Carey said the Adult Family Home line is a stipend available for emergency use to boarding-style homes for adults.  Normally the cost of the home is covered through SSI or Social Security.  This fund is for emergencies such as a need for clothing.  Ms. Carey will provide the
 During a review of the reports it was also noted that Family Assistance is a Federal Program with a local share of twenty percent; Safety Net is not a Federal Program and the cost of the program is shared equally between the State and the County.  Ms. Carey said the County costs would be increasing in the Safety Net program as individuals reach the maximum five years assistance period for the Federal program.  She pointed out the people who are extended under Safety Net are often individuals with waivers such as disabled individuals, and those who work but do not have a substantial income yet.

Youth Services

Appointment

 It was MOVED by Mr. Winch, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members present, to recommend Brian Emerick as a Youth Representative on the Tompkins County Youth Services Board for a period to expire December 31, 2007.

Youth Transportation

 Ms. Zahler provided a brochure containing basic information on the Tompkins County Transportation Survey being conducted by the Tompkins County Youth Services Department, Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT), Transportation Planning Council, and local school districts.  This web-based survey will gather information to provide more insight to the transportation needs of youth such as when transportation is needed, to where, etc.  In the upcoming months there will be a partnership with the local school youth commissions to develop action teams to inform families and encourage voluntary participation in the survey.  The information will be used by TCAT and the Transportation Council to develop countywide initiatives as well as have information specific to various school districts.  Ms. Kiefer inquired if there is the ability to complete more than one survey, noting it would result in a biased database.  Ms. Zahler said they have been weighing the possibility of developing a single-input only method; however, it is thought the survey is such that it is unlikely multiple entries from the same individual would occur.  She expressed a desire to make it easily accessible to the youth.

 Ms. Blanchard spoke of a past survey done by TCAT, noting individuals were very willing to say what type of service they desired but were not willing to pay for it.  She asked if any of the questions would indicate a willingness to pay for services rendered.  Ms. Zahler said presently there is no question of that type; she will add one to the survey to provide pricing feedback.  She said there might be other transportation patterns that could be revised within the present structure.  Ms. Zahler said local communities may be willing to provide a local subsidy if there is enough interest in utilizing public transportation.  She spoke of the success of the summer bus pass program and thought perhaps it may be worthwhile to extend it during the school year.   Ms. Zahler said the Ithaca Public Education Initiative is working on the survey.  More information will be made available as the survey progresses.

Drug Prevention Grant

Ms. Zahler reported that she received official notification from the Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Department that the Drug Prevention grant has been renewed for October 2005 through September 2006.  This multi-year grant requires annual application for a renewal; although some were not renewed the County was fortunate and received funding.  This figure was included in the 2006 budget projections.

Executive Session

 It was MOVED by Mr. Proto, seconded by Mr. Winch, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members, to enter into an executive session to discuss possible litigation.  Executive session began at 11:54 a.m.

 On motion of Mr. Proto, seconded by Ms. Blanchard, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members, the Committee exited executive session at 12:10 p.m.

Health Department

Opening Burning

 It was reported that the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council received an award from the State Environmental Management Council for the work done on Open Burning.  At this time the local steps are underway, with public hearings having taken place in Lansing and Danby.  Twenty-two people attended each meeting; nine spoke at the Lansing meeting and 12 spoke in Danby.  The majority of individuals supported the proposal and consensus is to move ahead with the final adoption of the regulation at the next Board of Health meeting.  If it is adopted it will then go to the State Health Department and will go into effect upon filing at the State level.  It is anticipated this process will take 2 to 4 months to complete.  The regulation will extend current practice within the city and municipalities to the entire county.

Biggs B Update

 Ms. Cole reported that the work presently being conducted to alleviate moisture and odors within the building has not progressed as expected.  The work in the administrative area of the building resulted in discovery of a leaking pipe as well as noxious odor due to welding.  She was required to evacuate the offices for most of a day.  At this time Mr. LeMaro has reported all welding is completed and that the removal of asbestos lining on pipes should not have caused the leak.  He is working methodically, and is ahead of schedule on the asbestos abatement and relining.  The roof project has been awarded and a preconstruction meeting will be taking place in the near future.  Ms. Cole said at this time work will cost between $50,000 - $100,000 and the work is halfway completed.

Flu Vaccine Information

 Ms. Cole said there is sufficient vaccine this year and they do not expect to have any shortages.  She noted the clinics will be done by appointment only, with no public clinics occurring until November.  There is a State website for individuals with questions on flu (www.flu.state.ny.us); individuals may put in their zip code for local clinic schedules.  The Health Department will be following the CDC guidelines regarding high-risk individuals who should have the vaccinations.  Ms. Blanchard noted that research indicates pre-school inoculations have a tendency to reduce flu outbreaks, as children are more likely to be carriers.

Human Services Coalition

Share the Wishes

 Ms. Kathy Schlather reported on the Share the Wishes Program that will take place to encourage advance healthcare planning as a result of a grant award from the Community Health Foundation of Western/Central New York.  The award is in the amount of $35,000 per year for a two-year period.  Although others applied we received the funds due to the efficiencies of the Human Services Coalition.  This will provide training in the county and will be coordinated by the Health Planning Council and Long-Term Care Committee.  Mr. Winch commented on long-term care programs.  He said while having attended many presentations, the most thorough was by a medical doctor. It was more informative, people-friendly, and was clearly presented by an individual who could not profit from the presentation.

TompkinsRx

Ms. Schlather reported on the TompkinsRx program, noting that to date $128,260 has been saved on 8,498 prescriptions.  This figure represents an average savings of twenty-four percent off retail cost.

Hurricane Katrina - Emergency Information

 Ms. Schlather reported the agency has developed a "Hurricane Katrina Information" website (www.hsctsc.org).  This site was developed to provide information specific to Katrina; however, it can be modified as necessary during times of local emergencies.  Ms. Robertson noted that in the wake of Hurricane Katrina the need to plan for the future was made more obvious.  It was noted that with the massive needs in the area of devastation, it might be wise to donate for local programs that could fall short of supplies.  In addition the Human Services Coalition is working with the United Way and other community agencies to recognize and plan for future needs.

Landlord/Tenant Discussions

 Mr. Proto inquired about a Homeless and Housing Task Force meeting that had taken place earlier in the day related to evictions of tenants in Tompkins County.  Ms. Schlather reported Mr. Larry Beck and his wife spoke about the various reasons for evictions, including substance abuse, noise, domestic violence, excessive garbage, poor housekeeping, and illegal behavior.  New York State gives landlords the right to present an eviction notice if an individual is three days overdue in paying rent.  Discussions also included confidentiality, Section 8 housing, and early intervention to prevent eviction with Section 8 residents.  At the meeting the question was raised of what percentage of utilities is paid by the landlord.  Mr. Beck noted for his units it in two-thirds of the units the tenants paid utilities.  Mr. Proto said he felt it is worthwhile for landlords to meet with the agencies that could be of assistance; he said evictions are costly and time-consuming.  Ms. Schlather said a landlord ultimately does not help tenants by allowing them to get too far behind in rents.  Ms. Blanchard asked whether the discussion provided information on how many are month-to-month renters vs. those with a lease; this may affect individuals with the increasing utility costs.  Ms. Schlather said it was discussed but it was noted that if an individual had a twelve-month lease it would not be increased.  She thought most of the population does have a twelve-month lease.
 
Cooperative Extension - Home Heating Crisis

 Mr. Ken Schlather, Executive Director, reported his agency is analyzing the heating situation this year with regard to those earning less than 200 percent of the poverty level and for the county in general.  He said the most difficult aspect is to determine what the average heating expenses are.  There are an estimated 7,000 households below the 200 percent of poverty level figure.  He noted that for the 2003 heating season individuals actually spent approximately $2,500.  The guidelines for this year were estimated to be $2,300 for a two-person household, calculated prior to Hurricane Katrina.  Assumptions are there will be a fifty percent increase this year for natural gas.  Mr. Schlather said that if all individuals who are eligible for HEAP utilized this program, a conservative estimate is an increase of $2.8 million for the heating season.  He said almost 20,000 households in the county heat using natural gas, 10,000 heat using fuel oil, and 6,000 using electricity, and 1,500 heat with wood and other sources.  If a fifty percent increase for natural gas and fuel oil costs occurs, using the $800 base figure, it would mean a $12 million increase within the county.

 Mr. Proto said there are many variables, including transition surcharges and the increase in gasoline affecting residents as well.  He spoke of the caverns in Watkins Glen that were retrofitted for natural gas; he asked about gas such as this that would be available.  Mr. Whicher noted it is done on the basic accounting system of LIFO (last in, first out).  Mr. Proto does not believe it is the appropriate way to handle the situation.

 Ms. Robertson noted this will be a big problem for all residents.  Mr. Schlather said there are opportunities here to educate and assist the residents to find cost-saving methods.  He believes an estimated $200 per household could be saved by taking appropriate methods.  Mr. Winch said one simple measure to save is thermostat replacement, upgrading systems, etc.  Ms. Schlather said they decided to first identify what information is available and how to disseminate it.  Ms. Carey spoke of information being provided using individuals and organizations to inform people within neighborhoods.  Mr. Winch believes the senior citizens are a vulnerable group and thought perhaps the Office for the Aging could contract to have items such as thermostats installed for them.  Ms. Carey said that type of program is being reviewed, to maximize purchases and provide outreach, targeting specific communities.  There was agreement that the increased energy costs will not affect only lower income and the importance of hearing information from trusted sources.  Mr. Schlather said what is being proposed this year is simply triage, that it will set a foundation for additional work next year.  He indicated NYSERDA grants should be available to assist in the educational process.

Ms. Carey stated HEAP funding is provided from the Federal government.  Governor Pataki has requested additional HEAP funding in anticipation of the increased costs this year. At this time it is unknown how much funding will be available but she believes it will fall short of needs.  Ms. Carey expressed concern that many people who could utilize the HEAP program, but had not previously, will now apply as their resources will be used up.  In addition, individuals who are on Safety Net have difficulty as suppliers request up-front cash payment.

Ms. Blanchard suggested individuals who take advantage of the Foodnet program might be able to receive information from the delivery persons whom they have come to trust.  Other recommendations from the Committee included contacting Cornell University as 7,000 households belong to their staff.

Mr. Proto spoke of Caroline's discussions regarding this topic that included development of energy saving kits for homes. He also said it is important for people to dress properly in the inclement weather rather than have it so warm in the home they wear shorts.  He said this would save on energy.

Mr. Winch spoke of a recent radio program in New England that indicated funds for HEAP may be redirected for Katrina relief.  He is concerned with people opting to use wood stoves for a main heat source.  He believes poor installation and burning of green wood may cause many house fires.

 Mr. Whicher said that if additional HEAP funding is not available it is important to determine the best manner to assist county residents.  Ms. Carey said her staff is working on determining how it may affect residents.  It was suggested that local fire departments could be utilized to educate people on energy saving recommendations and how to prepare.

Chair's Report

 Ms. Robertson reported that if the County had purchased the Medicaid fraud accounting program it would have cost $50,000 for the year, but the county would not have received any benefit.  Ms. Carey felt it would negatively affect the county in the future, by increasing the 2005 base expenditures for Medicaid.

County Administrator's Report

 Mr. Whicher did not have a report.
 
Approval of Minutes of August 16, and September 7, 2005

 It was MOVED by Ms. Blanchard, seconded by Mr. Proto, and unanimously approved by voice vote of members to accept the minutes of August 16, and September 7, 2005, as submitted.

Adjournment:  On motion, the Committee adjourned at 1:05 p.m.
 

Respectfully submitted by Karen Fuller, Deputy Clerk