Montgomery County, MD

COMMISSION ON PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Meeting Summary Points

March June 1211th, 2008

Welcome and Approval of December May Points – Nelson Jackson, Chair, convened the meeting. Harold Snider, Commissioner, motioned to approve the May summary points. Marcie Povitsky, Commissioner, moved that an edit to the minutes be made to reflect the door-to-door service requirements. Aaron Kaufman, Commissioner, seconded the motion. The summary points for the May meeting were approved as corrected.

and the summary points for the January 2008 meeting were approved as written.

Presentation: ”Treatment and Health Care Services” – Steve Coulter, Vice Chair, Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Advisory Council

Mr. Coulter gave a brief overview of the Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Advisory Council and talked about services provided by the County and collaborating with other boards and commissions. Please see Attachment I for his presentation.

Nelson Jackson opened the floor for questions.

Aaron Kaufman, Commissioner, asked if there was any trouble providing services to people with disabilities as he knows that many individuals have difficulties with transportation or personal care. Mr. Coulter responded that while he is not directly involved with providing services, he does know that barriers do exist. Aaron suggested inviting a member from Health and Human Services (HHS) to speak to the Commission about these issues.

Jackie Simon, Commissioner, noted that she has personally observed individuals with spinal cord injuries severely abusing their medication. They rarely leave their homes and the isolation only intensifies the problem. It is extremely difficult to get services for these individuals in their homes. In addition, some facilities are not accessible for individuals with mobility impairments. Mr. Coulter agrees as he has heard several similar stories. He is aware of several on-line communities that exist for individuals to receive support, but they still remain in isolation and it is important to get outreach for them. Mr. Coulter will report back to his Advisory Council about the Commission’s concerns.

Dr. Jay Kenney, Chief, Aging and Disability Services, talked about the Commission’s new Health & Wellness Access Disparities Workgroup and their outreach efforts. He also noted that Dr. Roberta Carlin and the American Association of Health and Disability (AAHD) received a partnership grant with Montgomery County to survey women with disabilities about getting mammograms and increasing breast cancer screenings among women with disabilities. Dr. Kenney also works with older adults and seniors, who also resort to substance abuse for pain and/or loneliness. He said that while they don’t have all the answers yet, they are starting to explore, understand and research what can be done to help these individuals.

Sandra Sermons, Commissioner, spoke of her experience at a treatment facility. The materials were inaccessible and the providers refused to read the information to her. Because of this her treatment was not as adequate as it could have been. Mr. Coulter was saddened to hear of her experience, but he was not surprised as he has not seen documents in Braille or large print. He has known of other individuals who have had similar experiences and there is no excuse for them to continue to happen. Some providers are not automatically sympathetic to individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation nor do they follow the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) standards of accessibility. The challenge is that many of the services are run by separate contractors who need to be educated on these issues.

Dr. Harold Snider, Commissioner, noted that some individuals with chronic pain have cross-disabilities and also deal with these issues. He suggested creating standards to ensure that all County programs comply. Mr. Coulter agreed and said that during treatment individuals are not allowed to take medication. Treatment is then denied to individuals who have chronic pain and need to take medication for it. These individuals are then labeled as addicts and are unable to find a doctor to prescribe pain medication.

Connie Caldwell, Commissioner, asked when the Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Advisory Council meets and who is a part of the group. Mr. Coulter said that the Council meets on the 2^nd Thursday of every month from September through June at 401 Hungerford Drive on the 1^st floor from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. They have a similar membership set-up as the Commission on People with Disabilities and they have members who are service providers, physicians, pharmacists, lawyers, persons who are recovering, non-voting representatives and various County agency representatives.

Harry Eisenberg, Commissioner, said after hearing some of the stories told by Commissioners, it is quite apparent that it is important for these individuals to receive services. Mr. Coulter agreed and said that service providers need to be more sensitive to these individuals needs.

Kathy Kolan, Commissioner, proposed creating a central location, such as a website, for County programs and services to be listed so individuals can become aware of what is available to them. Mr. Coulter said that a website is a good idea, but many residents do not have internet access. He suggested posting signage on Ride On buses. Kathy also suggested placing notices in libraries and other public buildings.

Sharon Freiman, Commissioner, noted that many individuals have difficulty filling out forms for assistance. She suggested that HHS create an office specifically for assisting individuals fill out forms. Mr. Coulter agrees and said that while there are volunteers and volunteer agencies that do help, more can be done.

Susan Smith, Commissioner, said that she is well aware of the accessibility issues individuals face when trying to get treatment services. For example, people who use wheelchairs cannot get to the Avery Road Treatment Center due to its location. Mr. Coulter said that the waiting list is also an issue. The current waiting list for an individual to be admitted from the time they call is 12.5 days. Susan also noted that HHS has always been helpful when assisting clients in filling out paperwork. A lot of people just do not ask for help or do not know how to ask. Nelson Jackson, Chair, said that at his previous job he would go to facilities, such as Shady Grove, Washington Adventist, or Adventist Rehab, to qualify individuals for medical assistance. Part of the problem is they had to become in-patients first. Also, based on Medicaid rules, individuals with a substance abuse problem and no other medical issues do not qualify for Medicaid.

Sharon Freiman, Commissioner, asked Mr. Coulter to follow-up with the Commission in regards to advertisements being placed on Ride On buses.

Sandra Sermons, Commissioner, asked for Mr. Coulter’s e-mail address. It is SteveMDFP@gmail.com.

Dr. Jay Kenney, Chief, Aging and Disability Services, said that Joan Riley, former Commissioner, had Connie Caldwell, Commissioner, and David Sharp, Commissioner, speak to her classes at Georgetown University about the issues individuals with disabilities face when trying to access healthcare. He suggested doing similar education and outreach to County professionals about general health, mental health, and other health issues. Mr. Coulter said that there needs to be sensitivity when providing healthcare to individuals with mental health disabilities as it is a problem when delivering treatment services.

Jackie Simon, Commissioner, noted that emergency room staff needs to be educated on how to serve persons with disabilities. She has experienced incidents where staff will not admit her son, who has a spinal cord injury, because of his disability and when he does get admitted they do not attend to him regularly.

Update from the Chair – Nelson Jackson, Chair, noted that the County Council voted on Tuesday, June 10^th, to limit free parking at libraries. They decided that visitors of the Rockville and Bethesda libraries can park for free for two hours. After the two hour time limit, visitors must pay $1 per hour.

Workgroup Updates –

Aaron Kaufman, Commissioner, is working with councilmember Roger Berliner this summer. He recently spoke to Dr. Royce Hanson about the hazards of the brick pavers used in the Rockville Town Center. Mr. Hanson understands the problems the pavers have caused and that the Montgomery County Planning Board is working on finding alternatives for future development.

Dr. Harold Snider, Commissioner, reported on the current situation in Silver Spring involving Charter House and Alexander House. The facilities are located between Second Street, Fenton Street, and Cameron Street. Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPWT) have designed a way to fix the intersections at Fenton and Second and Cameron and Second. DPWT will be moving the bus shelter located there, but they currently do not have funds allocated in the budget to start construction on the intersections. Harold also said that he discussed the issue of brick pavers in the downtown Silver Spring area with Sarah Colgan. She said it was not a DPWT issue and the Silver Spring Urban District was responsible for installation. The pavers have caused severe accidents and continue to be a problem. Harold proposes that the County Council have a hearing to discuss the hazards of brick pavers so that testimony can be put on record. Jackie Simon, Commissioner, said that Councilmember George Leventhal did write to the planning board and they are currently studying the situation. She suggested that the Commission also contact the planning board. Aaron Kaufman, Commissioner, suggested writing a letter to Dr. Hanson to help expedite the assessment of the Rockville Town Center.

Jackie Simon, Commissioner, also noted that Susan Moore, an attorney with the Equal Rights Center, has been put in charge of monitoring the MetroAccess settlement of $14,000,000. Ms. Moore would like to speak to the Commission about the settlement and establish a relationship. Commissioners can report MetroAccess incidents directly to her and she will use the Commission to educate MetroAccess customers of their rights under the settlement. Jackie motioned that the Commission invite Ms. Moore to a future Commission meeting. The motioned was seconded and approved.

Sharon Freiman, Commissioner, inquired about the Hillmead Park property in Bethesda that was possibly going to be renovated as a group home. Aaron Kaufman, Commissioner, said the County Council voted 5 – 4 on June 10^th, 2008 for the property be demolished and be turned into parkland. Sharon asked if there was a way the Commission could be informed of these hearings. Nelson Jackson, Chair, said that Commissioners are welcome to volunteer and attend County Council meetings to keep the Commission informed of future situations.

Marcie Povitsky, Commissioner, asked for clarification of the Rockville parking garage regulation that persons with disabilities are allowed to park for free in the garages in the Rockville Town Center. There is no signage stating as such in the garages or near the payment stations. It is confusing for persons who use a disability placard or have a tag as they do not know if they have to pay. She suggested promoting the parking law so people will know it exists. Plus, there is some confusion over whether or not the new two hour rule applies strictly to library patrons or if it is for general parking. Craig Brieske, Commissioner, said that the City of Rockville needs to get this information out to people with disabilities.

Carly Clem, Staff Member, noted that there are no Full Commission Meetings in July or August, but Steering Committee Meetings will continue to take place the third Wednesday of every month at 401 Hungerford Drive in the tan conference room. The next Full Commission Meeting will be September 10^th, 2008.

Public Comments - None

Aaron Kaufman, Commissioner, held a moment of silence in memory and tribute to Councilmember Marilyn J. Praisner.

Presentation: “Continuing Dialogue on Commission Priorities and Unmet Needs” – The Honorable George Leventhal, Councilmember, Montgomery County Council and Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee/Member, Transportation & Environment Committee

Mr. Leventhal thanked the Commission for inviting him back. He is continuing to work on access at various facilities and has requested that the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPWT) create a cost estimate for installing automatic doors in all restrooms in every County facility. He is still waiting for that report. In regards to the Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) program, the entire MPDU law is being reviewed to ensure significant preference for residents with disabilities in large MPDU developments. He is in full support of the current Customized Employment Public Internship Program. Unfortunately, due to the current economic status some things we would like to do may have to be deferred until next year. He is always thinking of people who need the most attention including issues people with disabilities face such as access, facility improvements, housing, and employment.

Mr. Leventhal then opened the floor to questions and comments.

Jackie Simon, Commissioner, said she was grateful for how quickly Mr. Leventhal responded to the MPDU accessibility issues that were brought to his attention at the prior meeting. The Commission continues to recommend that all accessible units be offered to eligible persons with mobility impairments first. Jackie also noted that she has acquired several wheelchairs for Councilmembers and County staff to use at the upcoming meeting in the new Rockville Town Center to negotiate the pavers themselves and understand the challenges people have been comes across. Jackie reminded Mr. Leventhal that she is still trying to get the zoning law changed for elderly and disabled individuals and suggested they both have their own separate category.

Harold Snider, Commissioner, said that five months ago a meeting was held in Silver Spring concerning ADA violations at the block of Cameron Street and Fenwick Lane. Mr. Tom Street promised he would work with the codes required for these violations. Harold helped to identify other items that needed to be fixed and to date Mr. Street and DPWT have created a plan to take care of those items. He asked Mr. Leventhal to look into the project and see if it could move along faster. Harold also noted that five years ago the County was to install audible pedestrian signals in Silver Spring’s redevelopment area. These signals have still not been installed. One area that needs these signals is at the corner of Cameron and 2nd Avenue. Harold would also like to have the Council hold another hearing about MetroAccess as the service continues to be a problem for County residents.

Aaron Kaufman, Commissioner, expressed his concern about the upcoming 2009 fiscal year and the new operating budget. He hopes that the Council will maintain program funding at the current levels. Mr. Leventhal wants everyone to understand that the current economic status is temporary and some things may be deferred or put on hold for a year, but the Council will do their best to maintain funding and they aware of the programs that affect the people who need the most help. He also noted that the general election for the new Councilmember is May 13th and they will be sworn in at the end of May.

Tonya Gilchrist, Commissioner, had heard there would be budget cuts made to the Supportive Housing Rental Assistance Program (SHRAP). She knows of several individuals who have been helped by this program. Mr. Leventhal explained that in the Council’s budget savings he has put all the money back into the program with some of the money coming from the Housing Initiative Fund. He encouraged Tonya and others to relay to the Council specific cases to put a human face on the issue.

Harry Bodansky, Public, asked what the Councilmember’s would be able to do to encourage companies headquartered in Montgomery County to employ individuals with disabilities. He also asked what Montgomery College was doing to enable students with disabilities to pursue a secondary education to increase their chance of employment. Mr. Leventhal stated that Montgomery College had recently spoken with the Council and he will ask about their interaction with students with disabilities. As for working with organizations to employ people with disabilities, he suggested having officials and staff from the Department of Economic Development speak to the Commission to discuss this issue further.

Jackie Simon, Commissioner, gave an update on Design for Life Montgomery and said the program is receiving a lot of positive response. Several builders have come forward with a commitment to build visit-able and possibly live-able homes. Commission staff have created a PowerPoint presentation that is available online that anyone can show. Betsy Luecking, Staff, said she recently went to a builder’s breakfast and spoke with several builders who are very interested in the program and love that it is voluntary and that Permitting is involved. With the Council’s help, they have been able to form greater partnerships with the builders. 75% of the permits issued so far have been for renovations

Aaron Kaufman, Commissioner, asked if the Council could pass legislation that would encourage parking garages and parking lots to place handicapped spots closer to the building entrance. Sometimes accessible spaces are located far away from entrances and curb cuts. He also asked if the Council is planning on preventing Call n’ Ride services from being cut in the new fiscal year. Mr. Leventhal said the Council is not going to propose cuts to Call n’ Ride. If it is in the County Executive’s budget, the Council will figure out what makes the most sense, which may include moving priorities around or including tips with the coupons. He encouraged Commissioner’s to tell the Council personal stories in regards to the program.

Sharon Freiman, Commissioner, asked if the Council had considered offering incentives to builders. For example, if builders build a live-able or visit-able home then the County will fast track all of their permits. Mr. Leventhal agreed with the concept and encouraged the Commission to invite officials from Maryland-National Capital Parking and Planning Commission and from Permitting Services to raise their consciousness about these issues, to help them understand and get them involved. While he is able to pass bills, they do not necessarily get acted on immediately.

Tonya Gilchrist, Commissioner, asked if there were any Council public hearings coming up in the near future. Mr. Leventhal wasn’t sure of the exact dates* and will let Betsy know. Nancy Aldous, County Council Liaison, said there are also several town hall meetings that will be taking place so the public can discuss the budget with the County Executive. He will be holding a Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, March 20th, 2008, at Briggs Chaney Middle School – 1901 Rainbow Drive, Silver Spring, MD. The meeting will start at 7:30pm.

* There will be a County Council Town Hall Meeting for the Clarksburg area on Wednesday, March 19th, 2008, at Little Bennett Elementary School – 23930 Burdette Forest Road. The meeting will start at 8:00pm. A pre-meeting reception will begin at 7:30pm.

Mr. Leventhal thanked the Commissioners and he will continue to be in contact with the Commission.

Update from the Chair –

Nelson Jackson, Chair, encouraged all Commissioner’s to attend the Steering Committee next Wednesday night, March 19th, being held in the tan conference room at 401 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, from 5:30pm to 7:00pm.

Nelson Jackson, Chair, noted that he addressed County Executive Isiah Leggett and Uma Ahluwalia, Director of Health and Human Services, last week and it went very well. Ms. Ahluwalia was very receptive and she appreciated the input made by the Commission in regards to including people with disabilities in all Workforce Diversity Initiatives.

Nelson also noted that the World of Possibilities Expo is coming to the Montgomery County Fairgrounds on Friday, May 2nd and Saturday, May 3rd. The Commission is partnering with Caring Communities and the World of Possibilities Expo along with the Commission on Aging. The Commission will have a booth present at the Expo. More information will be sent out soon. He encouraged Commissioners to volunteer to work at the booth.

Nelson encouraged all Commissioners to participate in workgroups and committees. Everyone has an equal share in the project and please feel free to participate.

Workgroup Updates –

David Sharp, Commissioner, said he will have a transportation update at the next meeting. He is attending the Council of Governments (COG) meeting tomorrow. They are currently discussing transportation issues, such as funding for Job Access Reverse Commute (JARC), which improves access to job sites and employment-related activities for people who are transitioning from welfare to work