NYSILC Full Council MeetingFriday, September 25, 202010:00 am to 2:00 pmVia Zoom video conference link

Necessary Business Agenda

Members invited to join meeting early to ensure connection 9:45 am

I. Call meeting to order - Doug Usiak, Chair. 10:00 amA. Roll call.B. Open forum

II. Review and approval of Full Council Meeting (FCM) minutes. 10:15 amA. Review and approval of draft minutes for May 29, 2020.

Refer to minutes in packet

III. Executive Director’s Report – Brad Williams. 10:20 am

A. Significant issues/major goals and deliverables (April-June 2020).B. Update on CARES Act CIL surveys.https://nysilc.org/images/Brief_Follow_Up_NY_Network_Federal_CIL_Survey_results.docx C. Recognize members terming off the council.D. Advocacy issues/updates.

IV. Treasurer’s Report – Roger Benn. 10:40 am

A. NYSILC Quarterly Fiscal Report (April-June 2020).B. NYSILC 2020-2021 Fiscal Budget.C. Finance Committee minutes (August 6, 2020).

V. Executive Committee Report – Aaron Baier, Vice Chair. 10:55 am

A. Executive Committee minutes (May 8, 2020, June 12, 2020, July 10, 2020)B. Discussion of mentoring for council members (including new members)*C. Discussion/identification of officers for 2021-2022.D. Committee assignments/leadership opportunities:

Refer to NYSILC committee materials in packet.E. Discussion/action: Recommendation of Executive and Recruitment

Committees. Refer to NYSILC 2021 Appointment Recommendations in packet.

F. Discussion/action: Recommendation of Executive Committee: Refer to separately attached Diversity Proposals.

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VI. Association Development Group (ADG) presentation – Holly Cargill-Cramer 11:45 am

Refer to separately attached materials.

VII. Break 12:55 pm

VIII. Committee & Subcommittee Reports* 1:05 pm

A. ACCES-VR SRC report – Lindsay Miller (March 10-11, 2020)http://www.acces.nysed.gov/vr/march-2020-meeting-minutes Any interest in serving as the ACCES-VR SRC liaison?

B ACCES-VR report – Joseph Tedesco and Rookmini Mangal, ACCES-VR.C. NYSCB SRC report – Cliff Perez.D. SPIL Committee – Doug Usiak & Laurel Kelley Co-Chairs (Federal CIL

Directors meeting May 21, 2020).E. Emergency Preparedness Subcommittee – Daniel Fuster, Chair.F. Development Committee - Lynn Drucker, Chair.G. Recruitment Committee – Lindsay Miller (interviews August 19-20, 2020).H. Database Workgroup – Roger Benn, Chair (Summaries of small group

meetingsMay 15, 2020 and August 4, 2020)

I. Consumer Satisfaction Survey Subcommittee – Aaron Baier, Chair (May 8, 2020 andJune 10, 2020)

J. Monitoring & Evaluation Committee – Chad Eldred, Chair (May 14, 2020).1. NYSILC quarterly contract report:

April-June 2020 Third report of the 2020 contract year.– (Refer to separately attached SILC Monitoring Document).

2. SSAN quarterly contract report: April-June 2020 Third report of the 2020 contract year.

– (Refer to separately attached SILC Monitoring Document).3. TRI quarterly contract report (demonstration project serving veterans with

disabilities): April-June 2020 Third report of the 2020 contract year.

– (Refer to separately attached SILC Monitoring Document).

IX. Other. 1:55 pm

X. Adjourn. 2:00 pm

*(Minutes have been provided for review. Reports should provide brief summary information regarding activities. Additional information can be shared regarding new business. Questions can focus on minutes, materials, or new information reported. Committees that haven’t met recently should note when the next scheduled meeting is anticipated.)

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Summer 2020 Issue of NYSILC News Briefs: https://nysilc.org/news/nysilc-news-briefs/343-volume-23-issue-4-summer-2020/file

* Board mentoring articles:https://boardforward.com/201906/Tips_to_Mentor_the_Board_Mentor

https://www.starboardleadership.com/board-chair-companion/board-mentors-a-strategy-for-engaging-new-board-members/

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II. Review and approval of Full Council Meeting (FCM) minutes:

New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC)Full Council MeetingVia Zoom video conferenceMay 29, 202010 am to 12:30 pm

Voting members present: Bob Meek, Esq., Joe Bravo, Chad Eldred, Lynn Drucker, Doug Usiak, Lindsay Miller, John Zick, Jan Lynch, Aaron Baier, Ann Scherff, Katy Carroll, Esq., Cynthia Alcozer, Rich Beadon, Roger Benn, Denise DiNoto, Aileen Martin, Cliff Perez, Vernon Bonse, Maria Samuels.

Non-voting (DSE) members present: Rookmini Mangal and Joe Tedesco.

Other present at meeting:NYSILC staff: Brad Williams, Amy Wink, Emily BianchineInterpreters: Sabrina Seeger and Denise SafranecCaptioner: Lisa.Public: Jessica De La Rosa and Edward Friedman.

Doug Usiak called the meeting to order. Emily read the participants list in attendance to confirm “roll call.”

Open Forum: Sabrina Seeger noted that Governor Cuomo finally started using interpreters on his daily COVID briefings and thanked everyone for their advocacy and support in the issue.

Review and Approval of FCM Minutes:Doug asked if everyone reviewed March’s Full Council Meeting minutes. Aileen made a motion to approve the minutes as presented. Denise seconded. Doug brought up that in the heading, the meeting was described as a teleconference. It should be changed to a videoconference. Brad will make the change. All approved.

Executive Director’s Report – Brad Williams:Brad reviewed the highlights of the report from the last quarter. He noted that NYSILC and ACCES-VR worked together on mutual issues. The 2019 ILS Program Progress Report (PPR) was finally approved after making a few minor adjustments. In terms of 2020 work priorities, they will be addressed in committee reports. Overall, this will include completion of the draft NY SPIL 2021-2023 along with progress on materials for the statewide consumer satisfaction survey. Amy and Emily had no comments. There were no questions about the report.

Brad moved on to the next item on the agenda, which was about the CIL CARES Act funding and surveys. The SILC felt it was important to keep the communication going on this topic within our network. While ACL’s FAQs have been adequate, most people recognize “gaps in plain language,” thus making their guidance very confusing. A recent ACL directive via email asked why CIL’s hadn’t spent their money to help consumers with pandemic related issues. ACL claimed 82% of CIL’s had used 0% of their funding? The

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funds were available April 1st, 2020 and many centers had to get operational via remote methods. The funds don’t have to be spent until September 2021. The urgency of the ACL email doesn’t make sense. The NY network has held Zoom meetings with the Federal CIL directors about once a month. The SILC also created a webpage for CIL CARES Act to help keep everything organized.

Brad asked if there were any questions before he moved on. Aileen said that she wanted to mention that she’s been on calls with Brad and that the ACL FAQ’s were not clear and that they made people hesitant to use the money without confirmation. Brad said that we’re working with the state association for the benefit of the network.

Brad then moved onto the CARES Act survey results. He reviewed some of the themes from the center operational survey. Brad identified some of the areas that could lead to future training needs: how to do supervision remotely, providing services to consumers remotely, improving policies and procedures (considering remote operations), creating emergency plans (including moving in and out of phases based on situations). Some CILs are looking into purchasing PPE’s for staff and consumer use as well as building technology capacity for delivering services remotely. Supporting personnel costs was another big factor Brad saw coming up in the survey feedback. Each center is identifying and planning the allowable uses of these funds at this time, as they know what’s best for their centers, communities, and consumers well. Doug said Brad covered the scope of the survey plans well. The survey results are posted at the bottom of the CIL CARES Act webpage on the NYSILC website.

Brad then discussed the critical needs survey for New Yorkers with disabilities. He provided background about how the survey was created by the work group and the drop off rate. Brad said 1,100 people took the survey, only 750 answered that were a New Yorker with a disability, and after that only about 550 people went on to complete the survey. The drop off rate was about 50% and Brad listed a few reasons for the higher drop off rate. He said that the people who did finish the survey provided a lot of feedback and information in their survey responses. The survey concluded in mid-May. NYSILC staff have been working on compiling a first draft summary of the results. It will take some time to compile the full results including demographics and analysis of trends.

Doug Usiak asked what Brad’s plans were once the information from the surveys was sorted through. Brad said he’d share it with the center directors, the counsel, and with the public. Maria Samuels commented about the results from WDOMI’s local survey similar to the CARES Act work group’s survey. She said one of the things that came up consistently was “feelings of isolation” and comments about support groups changing negatively due to Covid-19.

Doug asked Brad to address the last item, advocacy issues/updates. Brad said he didn’t have anything documented for this section. Denise Safranec mentioned that some people with disabilities can’t even afford the Internet and it causes them to be isolated. Between excessive work and low wages, it’s causing people with disabilities to be unable to afford the service. Brad said he did a follow up with Veterans with Disabilities project. He had a discussion with them on how difficult it was for some to connect with people because many veterans with disabilities are unable to afford Internet access. Denise also mentioned that some people with disabilities may not understand captioning and some

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of the difficulties that have arisen because of COVID-19 social distancing. Katy Carroll commented that on the subject of advocacy that she attended a small group meeting with regional representatives about emergency management with FEMA and how it’s affecting people with disabilities across the country.

Treasurer’s Report - Roger Benn: Doug asked Roger to do the Treasurer’s report. Roger noted the report was on page 8. Overall, total revenue is down about $49,000 approximately, but the net revenue is up approximately $3,500 for the quarter and almost $6,000 to date. Down $83 to budget. Brad added we’re under expended because the first quarter (between two contracts to keep cash flow down) and the new hire and database project wasn’t initiated until second quarter. Roger mentioned since there wasn’t a quorum at the Finance Committee meeting, he’d like to make a motion to accept the Treasure’s report as presented. Doug asked if there was a second and Aaron seconded it. No one opposed or abstained. All approved.

Executive Committee Report - Aaron Baier:Aaron presented the report. He noted that the Executive Committee met on March 13th, 2020. At this meeting, the group began discussing the impact of COVID-19 and the reviewed of the agenda for the upcoming NYSILC meeting. Brad gave an update about SILC Congress, which included news about the NY 2019 PPR and the inevitability of a spend down plan at the end of the contract year. Last, the council reviewed and approved a remote fiscal policy, previously reviewed, and recommended by the Executive and Finance committees. The Executive Committee met on April 12th, 2020 and discussed updates related to the CARES Act and the two surveys. Cliff Perez made a motion to accept the report. Joe Bravo seconded the motion. All approved.

Committee & Subcommittee Updates: ACCES-VR SRC, Lindsay Miller

o Lindsay commented that there wasn’t anything to report because the ACCES-VR SRC hadn’t met since the last council meeting and the SRC wouldn’t meet again until June.

ACCES-VR, Joseph Tedesco and Rookmini Mangalo Rookmini Mangal spoke first. She mentioned that NYSILC’s contract payments

were up to date. She said all the SSAN amendments were approved. In addition, the new contracts were looking to be delayed up to a quarter because of different factors. She said they’d be looking at a January 2021 start date for the SSAN. Joe Tedesco said there would be no RFPs posted for the time being. Doug asked Joe if this year would be the extension of the SSAN contracts. Rookmini said no that this upcoming year was not the extension year and that 2020 was the current extension year. Doug then asked if the council should make a motion to extend the contract year one more year. Joe said it couldn’t be extended another year because it had already been extended. The council went back and forth with discussion on the matter, expressing their concern over the SSAN RFPs and the delay. Other issues were identified. The council felt that it was important for Brad to create a letter expressing these concerns to the Deputy Commissioner of ACCES-VR seeking resolution to the issues. We should also express our appreciation for Joe and Rookmini for the role they

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serve on the council as liaison to the DSE. Roger made the motion to write and send such a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of ACCES-VR. Aaron seconded the motion. All approved.

After the motion, discussions continued about contracts and cash flow. Brad, Joe and Rookmini will be in communication with each other on these issues in the coming weeks.

SPIL Evaluation Report – Alan Krieger:

Alan went over the NYSILC 2019 SPIL Evaluation Report. He said the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee assisted him by doing their due diligence and providing feedback about the process and with drafts. He says each SPIL has been getting better and better over the years with more focused objectives. He says there were six objectives in the SPIL. One objective was successfully achieved. So, there are currently five active objectives. Of the five, three were substantially met, one was exceeded, and one was not met. He said the substantially met was a recent new category based off history of trying to reach objectives and make tracking progress easier. Alan noted the one project that wasn’t finished was the database for various reasons (what we planned is just off in practice by about a year and a half – creating the appearance that progress isn’t getting done – when it is). He suggested maybe they should make an amendment for edits for the database objective. But it will catch up in the new SPIL. Alan explained the table found on page four of the report. He said it might be worth reviewing the objectives yearly and making notes or adjustments. It would be great to make amendments with the Feds when necessary. However, he understands this is not an easy process (requiring a public hearing) and extensive review and approval.

Alan said the one objective he had an issue with was the veteran’s project. He noted they have 30-40 targets. This happened because the SPIL experimented and allowed “local control” to the project awardee to work out their deliverables. The result: The objectives are very vague, and program oriented rather than goal oriented. Alan said, what we learned is this doesn’t work very well, does it? He recommends that in the future the SILC and partners identify measurable indicators for each project which can be turned into project deliverables. He noted how both the SSAN and IL statewide conference have developed their indicators over a period of time and will be surveying to gather most of their results. The NYSILC 2019 SPIL Evaluation Report was accepted as presented.

Committee & Subcommittee Updates: (Continued)

NYSCB SRC Report – Cliff Perezo Cliff Perez noted that the next Commission for the Blind SRC meeting will be

June 18th. He said they were trying to get information on the NFL cartridges for consumers. He said they were waiting for the brochures and were reviewing them to make sure all the language was consistent. Cliff said it was noteworthy that the commission was still open. They wanted to address the myths about the procurement process in New York and making things were accessible. In addition, the commission really wants to focus on the importance of Braille literacy. He suggested looking at research that literacy has gone down due to

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the lack of Braille literacy. Maria Samuels made a comment saying that she supported the push for more Braille literacy.

SPIL Committee – Brad Williams o Brad mentioned the meetings held for both CARES Act work groups on April

13th. He reviewed the remaining technical edits required for the NY SPIL 2021-2023 and final responsibilities. He said that NYSILC had to compare the current SPIL template to the recently approved version and ensure all content gets transmitted on the latest version. In addition, ACL has requested several changes, some related to the CIL CARES Act. Most of these things were communicated verbally and not in writing or in a sequential matter. Brad said this made things very difficult for him due to his cognitive disability. He said despite all of this, he felt confident in the draft State Plan. It will be ready to go once we’ve received all the signatures and required documents.

Youth Leadership – Vacanto Brad Williams – nothing to report this quarter due to impact of COVID-19.

Emergency Preparedness – Daniel Fuster, Chairo Nothing to report.

Development, Lynn Drucker, Chair o Lynn referred members to the minutes on page 18. She said that there was no

meeting in April because of COVID-19. Lynn also reminded everyone that they should’ve gotten the notice that the Hall of Fame (HOF) was rescheduled to 2021. Emily stated that she will be working on the videos for 2018 and 2019 HOF inductees.

Database Workgroup – Roger Benn, Chairo Roger noted the minutes to the database project on pg. 19. Brad spoke about a

small group meeting with ACCES-VR. He said the discussion focused on what items needed to be included from their portal so that it could allow centers to report to one location and generate their state report (and any other reports we chose to create). Brad also spoke about a soft launch being expected for the project, along with what is expected for the project by contract yearend and what will carry forward.

Consumer Satisfaction Survey – Aaron Baier, Chairo Aaron noted that the Consumer Satisfaction Survey Subcommittee had been

meeting frequently. The minutes were in the packet. Many parts of the survey had been modified, the rating scale, the questions themselves, and more. He said that the committee was working on the analysis side of the survey at the time being.

Monitoring & Evaluation – Chad Eldred, Chairo Chad said the committee previously talked about the draft SPIL. Currently, the

committee met May 14th to review the second quarter of the contract year. He said he is interested to see what impact Covid-19 will have on programs. Brad

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added he had a conversation about the veteran’s project how-to manual and impact in had on their work.

Brad mentioned that the Recruitment Committee recently met to start their annual process to seek candidates to fill four projected vacancies. The group also needs to confirm commitments from several reappointments.

Cliff Perez made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Joe Bravo.Meeting adjourned.

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III. Executive Director’s reportA. Significant issues/major goals and deliverables

April-June 2020 Major deliverables during quarter :

NYSILC and ACCES-VR made excellent progress on their mutual issues. Richard Beadon was fully appointed by the Regents in June 2020. The contract materials for NYSILC were received and accepted. Some of the issues were addressed post-May FCM in a letter. The funding delays were all addressed statewide for the IL network and in particular for SPIL related projects. It was agreed to discuss the Part B unexpended funds in early 2021. An extra effort was made to address the SSAN RFP issue. Efforts were made by both parties and the SSAN RFPs were release for competition in July. Excellent coordination to resolve the list of issues.

Progress continued for the NY Federal CILs and the CARES Act funding. NYSILC created a NY CIL CARES Act webpage on its website to address relevant information. A Zoom meeting was held in May with the Federal CIL directors to facilitate communication on important topics. NYAIL hosted a webinar series for the network in July-August based on the issues identified in the CIL operational survey.

NYSILC worked with state plan partners to complete all the requirements of the draft NY SPIL 2021-2023 and transmit the draft to ACL well before the 7/1/20 deadline. Details in the SPIL Committee report.

Major Goals/Deliverables NYSILC 2020 Work Priorities:

State Plan Development : Details in SPIL Committee report. Statewide Data Interface Project : Details in the Database Work Group report. Consumer Satisfaction Survey : Details in the Consumer Satisfaction Survey

Subcommittee report. Council Meeting Format : Due to the Coronavirus, the council has transitioned to

video conferencing for its meetings. Format is being used for daily staff, committee, and full council meetings.

SILC Standards & Indicators (S & I) : Draft document completed, waiting for action at a future date.

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IV. Treasurer’s ReportA. NYSILC Quarterly Fiscal Report

NYSILC Statement of Revenue and ExpendituresSept 25, 2020 FC Meeting

        YTD2019-

20ACCE

SFundraise

BudgetOct-Jun 2020 Budget Budget Budget

REVENUE ACCES VR

Fundraisin

gHOF Total

ACCES Contract 116,3

03 - - 116,3

03 368,2

64 32

0,027 (48,

236)17.1

% 491,0

18 491,0

18 -

Fee for Service -

2 - 2

338

2

(336)

450

-

450

Donations Unrestricted - - - - 1

88 1,615

1,428

250

-

250

Fundraising Events - - (100)

(100)

22,500

6,770

(15,730)

-54.2

% 30,0

00 -

30,000

Interest Income -

625 - 6

25 -

703 7

03 - - -

Misc. income -

5 - 5

38

11

(27)

50

-

50

Total Revenue 116,303

632

(100)

116,835

391,326

329,128

(62,198)

-15.9

% 521,7

68 491,0

18 3

0,750

EXPENSES

Salaries and wages 45,8

18 - - 45,8

18 133,3

55 12

1,619 (11,

736) 177,8

07 177,8

07 -

Employee benefits/taxes 11,9

85 - - 11,9

85 38,6

99 3

4,664 (4,0

35) 51,5

98 51,5

98 -Subtotal, Compensation Costs

57,803 - -

57,803

172,054

156,283

(15,771)

-9.2%

229,405

229,405 -

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Rent 6,7

63 - - 6,7

63 21,7

50 2

0,289 (1,4

61) 29,0

00 29,0

00 -

Telephone 1,4

15 - - 1,4

15 4,8

00 4,027

(773)

6,400

6,400 -

Office supplies 5

01 - 5

01 3,6

48 2,185

(1,463)

4,864

3,800

1,064

Contractual Services 28,1

81 - - 28,1

81 59,1

00 6

1,654 2,5

54 78,8

00 78,8

00 -

Printing & postage 2

44 - - 2

44 5,2

09 1,135

(4,074)

6,945

2,607

4,338

Travel expenses 5

44 - - 5

44 7,8

93 4,072

(3,821)

10,524

10,400

124

Transportation 1,7

57 (

223) - 1,5

35 8,4

74 4,811

(3,663)

11,298

11,298 -

Web Platform 5,4

21 - - 5,4

21 3,1

22 5,891

2,769

4,163

4,163 -

Insurance 1,0

43 - - 1,0

43 3,7

50 3,129

(621)

5,000

5,000 -

Dues/Subscription/Sponsorships - - -

12,113

1,485

(10,628)

16,151

16,125

26

Interest/bank charges 4

54

105 - 5

59 - 1,423

1,423 - - -

Purchased services 11,4

73 - 11,4

73 43,8

90 4

1,651 (2,2

39) 58,5

20 58,5

20 -SILC/SPIL meeting expenses

676 - -

676

32,778

12,033

(20,745)

43,704

30,500

13,204

Project Costs - - - 3,7

50 1,410

(2,340)

5,000

5,000 -

Miscellaneous

28 - -

28 - 1,088

1,088 - -

Subtotal, OTPS 58,5

01 (

118) - 58,3

83 210,2

77 16

6,282 (43,

995)

-20.9

% 280,3

69 261,6

13 1

8,756

Total Expenses 116,3

03 (

118) - 116,1

86 382,3

31 32

2,565 (59,

766)

-15.6

% 509,7

74 491,0

18 1

8,756

Net Revenue (1 6 8,9 (2,4 11,9 - 1

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0 750 00) 50 96 6,563 32) 94 1,994

Notes:For the quarter, the contract with ACCES-VR broke even ($0), fundraising had a surplus, and the HOF had a slight loss (due to a refund) that created a net revenue of $650. YTD, the net revenue is just over $6,500, largely due to the HOF event. Please keep in mind that the HOF event was postponed until May of 2021. The fundraising events line in revenue indicates it is at -54% of the projected amount. This will give the Development Committee and council a goal to start with and resume activity. Total revenues are at -22.2%, largely under expended on the ACCES-VR contract (-17.1%) because of the minimized spending in the first quarter created by the new contract delays. The various under expended lines have been impacted by the Coronavirus and remote work at home transition. Spending will catch up going into the final quarter, when the approved budget modification will realign major budget lines with actual planned expenses.

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IV. Treasurer’s ReportB. NYSILC 2020-2021 Fiscal Budget

NYSILC 2021 FISCAL YEAR BUDGETOctober 2020-September 2021

REVENUE ACCES-VRFundraisi

ng Total

Contract w/ACCES VR 429,418 0429,4

18Fee for Service 0 300 450 1)Donations Unrestricted 0 250 250

Fundraising Events 0 20,00020,00

0Misc Income 0 500 500

Total Revenue 429,418 21050450,6

18

EXPENSES ACCES-VRFundraisi

ng Total

Salaries 189,203 0189,2

03

Fringe 56,761 056,76

1

General Operating* 110,104 17,500127,6

04Equipment 0 0 0

Purchased Services** 73,350 073,35

0

Total Expenses 429,418 17500446,9

18

Net 3,700

* See second sheet for detail on General Operating (GO) detail for ACCES-VR and Fundraising.** See second sheet for Purchased Services (PS) detail for ACCES-VR.

Notes:1) Revenue from potential consulting and donations reduced based on last yearinactivity/impact of pandemic. HOF event reduced to first year results.

General Operating Detail

ITEMSACCES-VR

Fundraising

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Rent 29,025 0Telephone/DSL 6,425 0Office supplies 4,225 1,000Printing & postage 3,050 3,500Travel expense 2) 11,050 0Transportation 3) 9,873 0Web platform 854 0Insurance 5,025 0Dues/subs/spons 3,225 0SILC/other meetings 4) 28,527 13,000PFS 5) 5,000 0Contractual 3,825 0

Total110,10

4 17500

Purchased Services Detail

ITEMSACCES-VR

Audit Services 6,025IT Consult Services 12,000Payroll Services 2,025Webmaster Services 5,025Bookkeeping Services 6,225Fund Development Services 12,025Data Host/Serving Fee 15,000CSS Rpt/Consult Services 5,000SPIL Evaluation Services 10,025Total 73,350

Notes:2) Includes in/out of state travel.3) Includes vehicle lease and parking. Vehicle lease ends/will not be renewed.4) Includes SILC meeting and Other SPIL meeting costs.5) Reflects Pat Figueroa young adult scholarships.

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IV. Treasurer’s ReportC. Finance Committee minutes

Finance CommitteeAugust 6, 20201:00 PM

Present: Brad Williams, Aaron Bier, Aileen Martin

It was acknowledged that there wasn’t a quorum, so the group reviewed business. Recommendations will be made to present the quarterly fiscal report and draft 2021 annual (fiscal) budget for approval at the September 25th full council meeting.

Brad presenting the NYSILC quarterly fiscal report for April to June 2020. He provided background about the year-to-date with the impact of the delay with the new contract and coronavirus on the budget. It has created unexpended funds. The council obtained review and approval of a spend down plan from the Executive Committee in July and online from the Finance Committee (see note at end of these minutes). For the quarter, the contract with ACCES-VR broke even ($0), fundraising had a slight gain ($750), and the HOF had a refund of (-100). Fundraising was down due to the cancellation of the HOF (rescheduled to 2021). Net revenue for the quarter was $650. This wasn’t bad considering this quarter absorbed the brunt of the pandemic. Overall, net revenue for the year was just over $6,500. This is approximately $2,400 below the projected budget. Again, not bad considering the impact of the pandemic. There were no questions. The report will be recommended for approval at the 9/25/20 FCM.

Brad asked if there were any questions about the June 2020 SEFCU savings account statement. Aileen asked about the deposits and withdrawals on the statement (amounting to $2 and $21.25). Brad noted that they reflected the direct donation and charges from the company that does our donation portal linked to the NYSILC website. The $2 in donations were $1 test gifts to work through an issue we were having. Our bookkeeper schedules the activity and it shows up on the report as bank interest under fundraising. We have always paid a fee for such a service. This is better than the previous vendor.

The group reviewed the draft NYSILC 2021 Annual Budget based on the new format created last year. Brad noted how the total amount is less because it does not include the one-time amount for the database project. It reflects the typical base amount the council has received for several years (less the 4% cut). He also noted that potential consulting and donations were impacted by the pandemic and have been adjusted appropriately. The HOF budget was adjusted its first-year projection. Brad reviewed the general operating and purchased services details. Aileen asked about the council’s MWBE commitment. Brad explained that NYSILC has a partial waiver. He described the details related to the budget. The 2021 budget will be recommended for approval at the 9/25/20 FCM.

Aaron raised the need for the council to improve upon its revenue capacity. The group discussed this. Brad mentioned the decreased opportunity related to fee for service. However, he connected the group back to the November FCM and the presentation by

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ADG related to fund development. We asked them to prepare mini steps for the council to work on to build its capacity before addressing larger goals. Brad reported that ADG completed the Fund Development Plan with action steps. They/we are actively pursuing steps. The Development Committee will be meeting at the end of this month. ADG will be giving a presentation at the September FCM.

The group then talked about potential threats to the state and at the Federal level (cuts to funding). Opportunities were discussed. NYSILC will be talking with ACCES-VR about the amount of Part B unexpended funds in early 2021. Maybe the Finance Committee will want to have an initial discussion about this at its October meeting. Once we know the amount, do we really want to hold on to it for when potential cuts are announced? Or do we want to use it for the network and for what? Capacity for fund development? Outreach to unserved/underserved?

Brad gave a brief update about the spend down to date. He then noted a discussion with Abacus IS, the council’s IT vendor. NYSILC’s server is over 5 years old and will eventually need to be replaced. Doesn’t have to be today. They recommended a virtual cloud solution costing $20/pp at 4 people amounting to $960 a year. The cost to transfer all the information from the existing server to the cloud will be $500. So, we will need to budget approximately $1,500 year 1 and $1,000 each year after. Can we add a tab to the budget called “planned use?” This will identify what we plan to use/expend funds in general operating on that weren’t used for a face-to-face SILC meeting? All agreed this was a very good plan.

Meeting adjourned.

Online review and action of the Finance CommitteeJuly10-13, 2020

The committee reviewed the spend down plan previously approved by the Executive Committee. Lindsay Miller made a motion to approve. Roger Benn seconded the motion. Questions/comments before action included: 1) a discussion of all fringe for one-time bonuses followed by an explanation of NYS contract parameters/limitations and 2) use of fringe for a one-time contribution to a 403(b) or an HAS and response to looking into it and why we couldn’t. Aillen Martin, Aaron Baier along with Lindsay Miller and Roger Benn approved.

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V. Executive Committee’s ReportA. Executive Committee minutes

Executive CommitteeMay 8, 202011:00 am

Present: Emily Bianchine, Brad Williams, Doug Usiak, Ann Scherff, Robert Meek, Esq., Joe Tedesco, Rookmini Mangal

Aaron Baier (Vice Chair) wasn’t in attendance, so Brad referred to agenda. The first item was the review and approval of the committee meeting minutes. Bob made a motion to approve the minutes from the April 10, 2020 meeting. Ann seconded the motion. All approved.

Brad wanted to briefly review the meetings coming up this month. Monitoring and Evaluation is set for May 14th at 11 am. The Federal CIL directors will be meeting on May 22nd also at 11 am. The Recruitment Committee is scheduled for May 26th at 12 pm (noon). The FCM is May 29th starting at 10 am until about 12 pm (noon). We’re asking members to join about 15 minutes early. It’s necessary business.

Under major work items, Brad discussed the technical edits to the SPIL. He has addressed these edits, finding time in between other work priorities. Brad also noted other challenges and difficulties: 1) Having to transfer the content to the final approved SPIL template was more of work than realized (there were several changes), and 2) ACL requested several last minutes changes (a few content adjustments and items required due to the CIL CARES Act funding). These changes were never told to us in an official communication in a sequential format that related to the SPIL template, but rather, were relayed to our community in Q & A segments of national webinar and chat formats in non-linear doses of information. We were left to take notes and figure it out. Doug raised the issue of Brad submitting a letter based on his disability to demand that these changes be identified in a written format. If denied, then file a complaint. Brad mentioned that ACL is doing two things routinely. They are not responding to emails and telephone calls (they are getting inundated with them) and they are claiming that we are in the middle of a national emergency – a pandemic – and using it to not follow standard rules and procedures. Brad is also concerned about how this will impact ACL’s review of draft SPILs for some of these requested changes. Are they going to challenge us based on what we submitted when they didn’t request these changes in writing to us?

Brad then gave a specific example of one of the requests for Section 3.1. Instead of the funding network by source (as of today) which helps identify the capacity of the network towards the minimum funding level, they now want dots or blank spaces. This just seems so arbitrary. It tells you either centers have the funding source, or they don’t. Nothing more. Brad relayed a couple of examples where miscommunication took place at the national level that trickled back to our New York network. Based on these events, he reached out to the Region 2 ACL program officer suggesting they talk to work on communication issues related to the CIL CARES Act. He agreed and tried to set up a conference call. Brad got a scathing email from Corinna Styles of ACL about breaking protocol. He emailed her back explaining the need for coordination and cooperation

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during this time period. Doug, Bob, and Ann voiced their concern about ACL and the need to request written communication. It was reiterated about making a request first before making a complaint (if they didn’t respond to the request). Bob clarified that the request is based on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Brad moved on the next item on the agenda, which was an update on the CIL Cares Act funding, work groups and surveys. For the NY Federal CIL survey, we heard from almost 70% of the centers. Brad shared the information with Lindsay at NYAIL, especially the training topics, which will be considered for future webinars/conferences. The center survey information will be shared at the upcoming Federal CIL directors meeting. Brad then discussed the consumer survey. It is out until mid-May. Preliminary results indicate an excellent response, but with a drop off rate. The drop off rate is most likely due to the first question that screens out anyone who responds “no” to are you a New Yorker with a disability. The drop off that then occurs amongst people with disabilities is most likely due to the length and time of the survey. Many respondents have provided additional comments. Twenty-seven Spanish surveys have also been received. Brad noted a few preliminary results. It will take the staff most of June to complete the draft report.

Brad commented that he had an initial conversation with Regina Blye from ACL about the 2019 NY ILS PPR. She then followed up with an email. He addressed the items in the online PPR and resubmitted the report. Brad emailed Regina back to update her. We are awaiting her reply.

Regarding follow up items with ACCES-VR, Joe noted that the SSAN coordination and site RFP documents have been completed and were sent up to Ceylane Meyers-Ruff for her review and signature along with Lauren Newel, Director of Operations. The Regents item has been completed for Rich Beadon for June 8-9th. The appointment is effective going forward, June 10th (not retroactive). Brad raised the issue of the database. ES11 is working with the common data fields, mapping them by inputs and outputs. In conversations with ES11, Brad and Ken, it came up that there are some other considerations based on the current ACCES-VR database portal. What is still necessary? Doug thought we needed a work group. Brad noted the time sensitive nature of the situation. So, we really need to make this a small group discussion/review of this situation with the database work group we have. Brad clarified this is for the ACCES-VR six month and one-year reports based on their portal. It was agreed that the small group consist of ES11, ACCES-VR, Ken, and the center directors on the work group. Brad will pull something together for next week, an urgent meeting. After this work is addressed, ES11 will address the exports.

Brad noted the need to fill the Native American representative vacancy. Some of the work priorities were mentioned during the meeting. Progress on others were as stated in the email for the meeting.

Meeting adjourned.

Executive Committee Meeting MinutesJune 12, 202011:00 AM

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Present: Brad Williams, Doug Usiak, Ann Scherff, Bob Meek, Roger Benn, Rookmini Mangal

Brad presented the agenda in the absence of the chair. The first item was the review and approval of the committee meeting minutes of May 8, 2020. Bob Meek made a motion to accept the minutes, and Ann seconded. All approved, except for Roger, who abstained because he wasn’t there.

Updates: First item was the letter to ACCES-VR post the May FCM. Brad sent out the letter the following Monday. The letter was attached for the meeting. As mentioned at the FCM, we expressed our support of Joe and Rookmini. In terms of releasing payments, NYSILC and TRI’s demonstration project were identified, Joe & Rookmini quickly communicated back to us that ACCES-VR got approval for all SPIL-related projects. The next issue evolved around the state’s hold on RFPs and our requested release of the SPIL’s upcoming SSAN RFPs since it is connected to Federal funds. The logic behind the request was acknowledged. Brad and Joe will be on a call next week to make further progress on the issue.

In addition, Brad noted that the NYSILC office was able to get the draft SPIL signature pages turned around quickly. Thank you to everyone. Brad is sending a letter out to ACL soon, if not today. Brad reiterated ACLs requested changes and the nature by which they presented them, quite challenging for some, especially based on their disability. The group briefly reviewed draft language Brad prepared for the transmittal email and came to a general consensus.

Rookmini gave the ACCES-VR update, noting receipt of the NYSILC 2020 contract materials, which have been received but not yet reviewed. Rich Beadon’s is all set to be appointed as a council member at an upcoming Regent’s meeting in June. His appointment will become effective a day or two after the Regents meeting and will end in December 2021 when he can be reappointed. Per the last Consumer Satisfaction Survey meeting, ACCES-VR will be reviewing the new method by which survey results will be grouped toward the 85% benchmark.

Under monitoring, we need to come up with a plan to find a new Native American representative. Doug suggested sending a request to the president of the Seneca (and other) nations, alerting them to the current vacancy and requesting a candidate. NYSILC will mail out individual letters to the nations.

Other issues: NYSILC is creating a Black Lives Matter statement of solidarity. The initial draft statement was enhanced by one contributed by a staff member at Doug’s center. This created two draft statements. After discussion, it was decided to send an email with the two draft statements to the diverse members of the council to get their feedback. Further action can be based on the feedback.

Under work priorities: Update on database project: Brad spoke with Rocco at ES11 a few days ago and he completed an import based on sustained feedback over time (including several center directors), and created a backup manual import which can be used in case something malfunctions. They also created a test report based on the data. Brad will check back with Rocco next week. They will then focus on the exports and the extra

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reportable items. Excellent progress is being made. The group discussed the process, and some expressed their concerns. Specifically, the number of total data points was identified as a concern and how large it was getting if it was accommodating items from the current ACCES VR data portal. Brad ended the exchange by saying he would address it and report back.

Hearing no additional comments or questions, the meeting was adjourned.

Executive CommitteeJuly 10, 202011:00 AM

Present: Brad Williams, Aaron Baier, Roger Benn, Doug Usiak, Ann Scherff, Bob Meek, Rookmini Mangal

Aaron called the meeting to order. The first item was the review and approval of the committee meeting minutes of June 12, 2020. Bob Meek made a motion to accept the minutes and Ann seconded. All approved.

Under New Business: Brad sent an email out to full council members on June 30th looking for interest to

replace Lindsay Miller next year as the liaison to the ACCES-VR SRC. No responses yet. We will have it on the agenda for the September FCM.

Brad recognized the Executive Committee online action taken on July 3rd related to a review of a solidarity statement and agenda. Previously, this included review by the council’s diverse members, the Public Policy Committee, and then online review and approval by the Executive Committee. The NYSILC solidarity statement in support of black lives and against racism, along with the Rochester Black Agenda, which NYSILC supports and signed on to, is available at: https://nysilc.org/news/news-archives/196-nysilc-solidarity-statement-in-support-of-black-lives-and-against-racism. An email was sent out notifying the council on July 8th.

Brad discussed and reviewed the 2020 spend down plan, referring to an attached document. The overall spend down amount, projection (or margin) is approximately $54,500. This is due to less spending because of the impact of the pandemic and the new staff person not being hired until early March and not needing full health insurance coverage. The major items for the spend down include SSAN sponsorship opportunities with unserved/underserved groups, a sponsorship for NYAIL for their webinar series, support for two vendors to assist NYSILC with diversity education and a draft COVID survey report, and one-time salary adjustments for staff. Bob Meek made a motion to approve the spend down plan. Doug seconded the motion. All approved. The Finance Committee will review and approve the spend down plan online.

Under Updates: Regarding the issues raised at the May 29th FCM and letter sent to ACCES-VR, we have

followed through on the one time-sensitive issue related to the SSAN RFPs. A letter was sent to the Governor’s Office on the topic in late June. The letter was attached. In early July, an email was sent out via the NYS grants gateway indicating an intent for the release of the RFPs in August. Very good news!

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Brad notified the group that the council received an email from ACL on July 1st to confirm receipt of the draft NY SPIL for 2021-2023. They will be back in touch with us about changes if needed.

Under Follow Up Items: For the NYSILC and ACCES-VR mutual issues:

o Rookmini noted that NYSILC’s 2020-21 contract materials and advance voucher were received. They are good. She acknowledged that the goals and objectives are enhanced, and she will get back to Brad with any questions or feedback if needed.

o Brad and Rookmini briefly talked about clarification for a line within general operating for an expense. Guidance was offered for the upcoming budget modification that NYSILC will be submitting to align its major line items with actual expenses per it’s spend down plan.

o Brad asked about the status of ACCES-VRs review of the new method of grouping survey responses for the upcoming consumer satisfaction survey toward the benchmark of 85%. Rookmini confirmed it was approved!

Under Monitoring: Brad confirmed that he sent out three letters on June 16th to one Tribe and two

Nations to seek candidates for the vacant Native American representative position on the council. There has been no response to date. The committee mulled over next steps. Aaron asked Brad to forward the information to him and he would follow up.

The work priorities were as listed on the email per item.

Meeting adjourned.

Executive Committee Emergency MeetingJuly 21,20204:00 PM

The Executive Committee agreed to meet via conference call to address an issue brought to their attention. It was related to a matter at a local center and issues being raised between the CEO/board and a variety of individuals. This prompted a discussion by the SILC of what responsibilities did the SILC have and how it should communicate its role and responsibilities to such matters to council members. It was decided that an email should be created to generally identify the situation, local center issues, and what the SILCs role and responsibilities are. This email was sent out to the council on July 21st.

A secondary issue was discussed and will be considered by a separate committee.

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V. Executive Committee ReportD. Committee assignments/leadership opportunities

NYSILC Committee Structure

ExecutiveCommittee

PersonnelCommittee

Public Policy Committee

Development

Committee

Finance Committee

Monitoring and

EvaluationCommittee

RecruitmentCommittee

State PlanCommittee

Emergency Preparednes

s Subcommitt

ee

Consumer Satisfaction

Survey Subcommittee

Youth LeadershipSubcommitt

ee

DatabaseWork Group

Needs AssessmentCommittee

(NAC)

7/20

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NYSILC COMMITTEE DESCRIPTIONS

Executive

Executive Committee: Elected officers of the council plus the two DSU liaison members. (See By-Laws)

Chair: Aaron Baier

Meets: second Friday each month at 11 am. Officers of council plus representative of DSE (ACCES-VR).

Standing Committees

Personnel Committee: (As convened)

Acting Chair: Brad Williams.

Meets: as needed/when called.

1. Purpose:

To advise NYSILC on human resource issues.

2. Membership: Approximately three to five members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties: a. To periodically review NYSILC’s Personnel Policies and make recommendations to the full council.b. To provide technical assistance to the Executive Director on personnel issues.c. To serve as a step in the NYSILC Grievance Procedures (Section 7-2 Step II) as defined in the Personnel Policies.d. To review new positions or changes in current positions that impact job descriptions and potential for compensation and provide recommendations.e. Other related duties as consistent with the purpose of the committee.

Engagement/ Public Policy Committee :

Chair: Aaron Baier

Meets: third Thursday each month at 1 pm.

1. Purpose: To identify, support and promote issues faced by New Yorkers with disabilities prioritized by the statewide needs assessment and stakeholder agendas.

2. Membership: Approximately seven to ten members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

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3. Duties: a. To review the annual agendas of the New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL) and National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) and determine the level of support for each agenda, including priority issues and the right to oppose specific issues.b. To recommend a course of action to NYSILC regarding statewide systems advocacy for issues, letters of support, decisions to sign on to petitions and other matters impacting the Independent Living network and the lives of New Yorkers with disabilities consistent with NYSILC’s mission.c. To advise NYSILC on and to encourage the growth of the Leadership Development and Civic Engagement Program (LDCEP) platform.

4. Goals:

Finance Committee:

Chair: Roger Benn

Meets: first Thursday (quarterly as called) at 1 pm.

1. Purpose: To oversee the active management of all NYSILC financial matters, including its routine accounts payable, accounts receivable, annual budget, quarterly and annual profit and loss statements and investments.

2. Membership: Approximately three to five members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties: a. To develop and recommend an annual budget to the NYSILC before the start of each fiscal year. b. To recommend the Cost Of Living Adjustment annual increases (when supported by the budget) and the percentage of participation of the employer contribution to the Simple IRA plan (0-3%) to the Executive Committee per the Fiscal Policies.c. To review, monitor and make recommendations regarding NYSILC’s assets and funds.d. To ensure that the NYSILC has appropriate insurances to safeguard its assets and holdings.e. To review the findings of the annual independent audit and any other fiscal audit that may be done to or on behalf of the NYSILC.f. To report the audit findings and any recommendations to the NYSILC for their consideration and action.g. To review the NYSILC Fiscal Policies on at least every two years to provide recommended changes to the Executive Committee for further consideration.

Development Subcommittee:

Chair, Lynn Drucker

Meets: fourth Tuesday each month at 2 pm.

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1. Purpose:

To review and support NYSILC’s development plan, assist implementation, and monitor progress.

2. Membership: Approximately five to seven members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties: a. To assist in the creation of the development plan.b. To monitor progress of the development plan on an annual basis.c. To provide support on identified major development event(s).d. To adopt the AFP Code of Ethics and Donor Bill of Rights as a guideline for the committee to follow.

Monitoring and Evaluation Committee

Chair: Chad Eldred

Meets: for monitoring, evening before each full council meeting at 6 pm. For evaluation, response to meeting Doodle.

1. Purpose: To monitor and evaluate all the objectives in the SPIL.

2. Membership: Approximately five to ten members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties:a. To conduct monitoring activities per the protocol on a quarterly basis and evaluation activities on an annual basis.b. To support all other monitoring and evaluation follow up activities related to the objectives.c. To make recommendations to the council related to:

monitoring and evaluation, and the improvement of state plan objectives, outcomes, and related

language.

Recruitment Committee:

Chair: Lindsay Miller (Lindsay will be terming off the council at the end of the year)

Meets: based on meeting Doodles.

1. Purpose:

To recruit and recommend members for potential appointment to NYSILC.

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2. Membership: Approximately three to five members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties: a. To assure that recommended candidates are reflective of the State’s diversity and the needs of the council.b. To be responsible for posting an annual recruitment notification statewide.c. To review submissions and make recommendations for appointments to the Board of Regents.d. To report recommendations at the fall full council meeting.e. To work with Executive Committee to orient new council members.

State Plan Committee:

Co-Chairs: Doug Usiak and Laurel Kelley

Meets: Based on meeting Doodle.

1. Purpose: To conduct all necessary activities for the formulation and development of the New York State Plan on Independent Living (SPIL) to be adopted by the New York Statewide Independent Living Council; monitor and evaluate the progress of the goals of the SPIL, and report the results to the NYSILC for action.

2. Membership: Approximately seven to ten members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties: a. To arrange for and support all hearings and forums for the formulation of the SPIL.b. Assist in identifying the priorities of the SPIL based on public feedback and needs assessment data to structure an agreement for the development of the draft SPIL.c. Assist in feedback and preparation of the draft SPIL, based on additional public feedback, coordinating the process with the Federal CIL’s (state plan partners) and the council (NYSILC) for review and approval of the draft 3-year state plan.

Subcommittees

Emergency Preparedness Subcommittee:

Chair: Daniel Fuster (Daniel will be terming off the council at the end of the year)

Meets: third Tuesday (quarterly, as called) at 10 am.

1. Purpose:

To review and evaluate Federal mandates of emergency preparedness and evacuation for people with disabilities and provide input and direction on statewide implementation.

2. Membership: Approximately seven to ten members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

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3. Duties: a. To review emergency preparedness and evacuation best practices for people with disabilities with the intent to incorporate into state, county, and local emergency plans.b. To encourage CIL’s to become engaged in local emergency preparedness activities.

Youth Leadership Subcommittee:

Chair: Vacant

Meets: online discussions.

1. Purpose:

To advise NYSILC of youth and young adult perspectives on disability issues.

2. Membership: Approximately five to seven members. Ideally, the group should contain current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties: a. To create a subcommittee which meets and or exchanges dialogue on a regular basis to obtain documented input from the direct group and affiliated stakeholders.b. To contribute the youth and young adult perspective on issues, reports, surveys issued by the council.c. To provide feedback on priority youth and young adult issues during State Plan formulation and needs assessment.d. To help promote the IL philosophy and make connections whenever possible between youth/young adult and IL networks. e. To promote, review and approve Pat Figueroa Sponsorship opportunities for youth and young adults.

Consumer Satisfaction Survey Subcommittee:

Chair: Aaron Baier

Meets: based on meeting Doodle.

1. Purpose:

To oversee a tri-annual Consumer Satisfaction Survey, to assess the level of consumer satisfaction with independent living services in New York State.

2. Membership: Approximately five to seven members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties: a. To conduct or oversee tri-annual Statewide Consumer Satisfaction Survey of the Federal and State funded network of Centers for Independent Living.

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b. To review and analyze the data collected by the assessment and report to the NYSILC the findings and/or results.c. To periodically evaluate the instrument that is being used along with the methodology to improve response rate and other results.

Database Work Group:

Chair: Roger Benn

Meets: as called per meeting Doodle/conversations on database communication board, Basecamp when solicited.

1. Purpose:

To fulfill the scope of duties outline in SPIL objective # 4 to defined, compete, and establish a multi-user web-based platform that can accommodate the statewide CIL network’s data and generate meaningful results.

2. Membership: Approximately five to seven members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties:a. To identify and select a vendor selection who is a viable candidate capable of developing the product.b. To have partners confirm resource commitment necessary to support project.c. To work with a vendor, ACCES VR, and the network to create the product, protocols, and training to implementation the database/interface platform.

Needs Assessment Subcommittee:

Chair: Doug Usiak.

Meets: Based on meeting Doodle.

1. Purpose: To periodically conduct a needs assessment study of the Independent Living needs of persons with disabilities in New York State and to report to the full Council findings and recommendations for action. 2. Membership: Approximately five to seven members. Ideally, the majority should be current and former NYSILC members.

3. Duties: a. To conduct or oversee Statewide Needs Assessments on issues relevant to people with disabilities and their Independent Living needs, as the NYSILC directs.b. To review and analyze the data collected by the assessment and report to the NYSILC the findings and/or results.c. To develop recommendations or a course of action for the NYSILC to consider and react to.

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Updated July 2020NYSILC 20 20 Committee Listing

Executive Committee (Officers & Ex Officio DSE)o Chair: Aaron Baier, abaier@aticortland.org. Vice Chair.o Doug Usiak, dusiak@wnyil.org. Chair (chair is vice chair).o Roger Benn, rogerbenn1@gmail.com. Treasurer.o Ann Scherff, alscherff@aol.com. Secretary.o Robert Meek, robert.w.meek50@gmail.com, Member at Large.o Joseph Tedesco, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov; Rookmini Mangal,

Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov

Non-Council Members:

o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org. NYSILC Executive Director.

D: rogerbenn1@gmail.com, abaier@aticortland.org, dusiak@wnyil.org, bradw@nysilc.org, dusiak@wnyil.org, alscherff@aol.com, robert.w.meek50@gmail.com, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov, Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov

E: rogerbenn1@gmail.com; abaier@aticortland.org; dusiak@wnyil.org; bradw@nysilc.org; dusiak@wnyil.org; alscherff@aol.com; robert.w.meek50@gmail.com , Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov; Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov

Standing Committees

Note, committee is dormant. Will be activated when personnel policies need to be reviewed and or issue needs to be reviewed. Personnel Committee (as convened)

o Acting Chair: Brad Williams, (518) 427-1060, bradw@nysilc.org

Non-Council Members:

o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.

E: bradw@nysilc.org

Public Policy Committee o Chair, Aaron Baier, abaier@aticortland.org

Vice Chair: o Henry Nixon, mrhenrynixon@aol.com.o Helen Fang, hfang888@gmail.com.o Lindsay Miller, lmiller@ilny.org.o Ann Scherff, alscherff@aol.com.o Robert Meek, robert.w.meek50@gmail.com .o Cliff Perez, CPerez@ilchv.org. o John Zick, jzick@aimcil.com.o Joe Bravo, jbravo@wilc.org.

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Non-Council Members:o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.o Meghan Parker, mparker@ilny.org.o Marieta Austin, marieta.austin_udi@aol.com, maustinudi@gmail.com.o Shelley Klein, accwest@aol.com.

o D: abaier@aticortland.org, mrhenrynixon@aol.com, hfang888@gmail.com, lmiller@ilny.org, alscherff@aol.com, robert.w.meek50@gmail.com, bradw@nysilc.org, mparker@ilny.org, marieta.austin_udi@aol.com, accwest@aol.com, maustinudi@gmail.com, CPerez@ilchv.org, jzick@aimcil.com, jbravo@wilc.org

o E: abaier@aticortland.org; mrhenrynixon@aol.com; hfang888@gmail.com; lmiller@ilny.org; alscherff@aol.com; robert.w.meek50@gmail.com; bradw@nysilc.org; mparker@ilny.org; marieta.austin_udi@aol.com; accwest@aol.com; maustinudi@gmail.com; CPerez@ilchv.org; jzick@aimcil.com; jbravo@wilc.org

Finance Committee o Chair, Roger Benn, rogerbenn1@gmail.com.o Vice Chair, Aileen Martin, aileenm@nrcil.net.o Lindsay Miller, lmiller@ilny.org.o Kathryn Carroll, kathryn@kecarroll.com. o Aaron Baier, abaier@aticortland.org.

Non-Council Members:o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.

D: rogerbenn1@gmail.com, lmiller@ilny.org, abaier@aticortland.org, aileenm@nrcil.net, bradw@nysilc.org, kathryn@kecarroll.com

E: rogerbenn1@gmail.com; lmiller@ilny.org; abaier@aticortland.org; aileenm@nrcil.net; bradw@nysilc.org; kathryn@kecarroll.com

Development Committee o Chair: Lynn Drucker, Lynn.Drucker@nyulangone.org

Vice Chair: o Doug Usiak, dusiak@wnyil.org.o Denise DiNoto, Denise@cdchoices.org.o Robert Meek, robert.w.meek50@gmail.com.o Joe Bravo, jbravo@wilc.org.o Crystal Rivera, CRivera@dca.nyc.gov.o Rich Beadon, richiebeadon@gmail.com.

Non-Council Members:o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.o Amy Wink, awink@nysilc.org.

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D: dusiak@wnyil.org, Denise@cdchoices.org, robert.w.meek50@gmail.com, bradw@nysilc.org, awink@nysilc.org, jbravo@wilc.org, Lynn.Drucker@nyulangone.org, hfang888@gmail.com, richiebeadon@gmail.com, CRivera@dca.nyc.gov

E: dusiak@wnyil.org; Denise@cdchoices.org; robert.w.meek50@gmail.com; bradw@nysilc.org; awink@nysilc.org; jbravo@wilc.org; Lynn.Drucker@nyulangone.org; hfang888@gmail.com; richiebeadon@gmail.com ; CRivera@dca.nyc.gov

Monitoring and Evaluation Committee o Chair, Chad Eldred, chade@stic-cil.org, chad.eldred@gmail.com.

Vice Chair: o Ann Scherff, alscherff@aol.com.o Doug Usiak, dusiak@wnyil.org.o Kathryn Carroll, kathryn@kecarroll.com. o Maria Samuels, marias@wdom.org.

Non-Council Members:o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.o Helen Fang, hfang888@gmail.com.o Alan Krieger, consultant: alan@kriegersolutions.com.

D: alscherff@aol.com, bradw@nysilc.org, chade@stic-cil.org, chad.eldred@gmail.com, hfang888@gmail.com, dusiak@wnyil.org, kathryn@kecarroll.com, marias@wdom.orgalan@kriegersolutions.com

E: alscherff@aol.com; bradw@nysilc.org ; chade@stic-cil.org; chad.eldred@gmail.com; hfang888@gmail.com; dusiak@wnyil.org; kathryn@kecarroll.com; marias@wdom.orgalan@kriegersolutions.com

Recruitment Committee o Chair: Lindsay Miller, (518) 465-4650, lmiller@ilny.org.

Vice Chair: o Joe Tedesco, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov.o Roger Benn, rogerbenn1@gmail.com.o John Zick, jzick@aimcil.com.o Rich Beadon, richiebeadon@gmail.com.

Non-Council Members:o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.

D: lmiller@ilny.org, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov, rogerbenn1@gmail.com, bradw@nysilc.org, jzick@aimcil.com, richiebeadon@gmail.com.

E: lmiller@ilny.org; Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov; rogerbenn1@gmail.com; bradw@nysilc.org; jzick@aimcil.com ; richiebeadon@gmail.com .

State Plan Committee 32

o Co-Chairs: Doug Usiak. dusiak@wnyil.org and Laurel Kelley laurelk@cdciweb.com,laurelkelley@hotmail.com.

o Rookmini Mangal, Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov.o Lindsay Miller, lmiller@ilny.org.o Joe Bravo, jbravo@wilc.org.o Joe Tedesco, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov.o Ann Scherff, alscherff@aol.com.

Non-Council Members:o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.o Bruce Darling, bdarling@cdrnys.org.o Denise Figueroa, dfigueroa@ilchv.org.

D: Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov, lmiller@ilny.org, jbravo@wilc.org, dusiak@wnyil.org, alscherff@aol.com, bradw@nysilc.org, bdarling@cdrnys.org, dfigueroa@ilchv.org, laurelk@cdciweb.com, laurelkelley@hotmail.com, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov

E: Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov; lmiller@ilny.org; jbravo@wilc.org; dusiak@wnyil.org; alscherff@aol.com; bradw@nysilc.org; bdarling@cdrnys.org; dfigueroa@ilchv.org; laurelk@cdciweb.com; laurelkelley@hotmail.com ; Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov

Subcommittees

Emergency Preparedness & Evacuation Subcommittee o Chair: Daniel Fuster, DFuster@arcwestchester.org; fusterd@icloud.com.o Vice Chair: Kathryn Carroll, kathryn@kecarroll.com.

Council Members:o Ann Scherff, alscherff@aol.com.o Jan Lynch, jan@fliconline.org.

Non-Council Members: o Ericka Jones, Vice Chair ejones@cdrnys.org. o Therése E. Aprile-Brzezinski, MA, ThereseA@licil.com.o Joanne Carlisle  benefits@stic-cil.org.o Sara Douglass, sdouglass@ariseinc.org.o James Flemming, james.flemming@dhs.gov.o Michael Hellmann, adatty@aol.com.o Julie Hovey, Julie.Hovey@ocfs.state.ny.us.o Beata Karpinska-Prehn, BKarpinska@ariseinc.org.o Phil Prehn, pprehn@ariseinc.org. o Jonathan Schultz, jonathan.schultz@niagaracounty.com.o Ken Stewart, cclvi@yahoo.com.o Todd Vaarwerk, tvaarwerk@wnyil.org.o Dave Whalen, davidvwhalen@yahoo.com, dwhalen@niagara.edu.o Kathleen Madigan, Kathleen.madigan@fema.dhs.gov.o Lindsay Lenihan: lindsaylenihan71393@gmail.com.

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o Alexander Thompson: athompson@rcal.org.o Daniel Appleman: dappleman@MH-LLP.com.

D: advocate@stic-cil.org, fusterd@icloud.com, ThereseA@licil.com, benefits@stic-cil.org, sdouglass@ariseinc.org, james.flemming@dhs.gov, adatty@aol.com, Julie.Hovey@ocfs.state.ny.us, BKarpinska@ariseinc.org, pprehn@ariseinc.org, jonathan.schultz@niagaracounty.com, cclvi@yahoo.com, tvaarwerk@wnyil.org, dwhalen@niagara.edu, Kathleen.madigan@fema.dhs.gov, alscherff@aol.com, ejones@cdrnys.org, lindsaylenihan71393@gmail.com, kathryn@kecarroll.com, jan@fliconline.org, athompson@rcal.org, dappleman@MH-LLP.com

E: advocate@stic-cil.org; fusterd@icloud.com; ThereseA@licil.com; benefits@stic-cil.org; sdouglass@ariseinc.org; james.flemming@dhs.gov; adatty@aol.com; Julie.Hovey@ocfs.state.ny.us ; BKarpinska@ariseinc.org; pprehn@ariseinc.org; jonathan.schultz@niagaracounty.com; cclvi@yahoo.com; lindsaylenihan71393@gmail.com; tvaarwerk@wnyil.org; dwhalen@niagara.edu; Kathleen.madigan@fema.dhs.gov; alscherff@aol.com; ejones@cdrnys.org; kathryn@kecarroll.com; jan@fliconline.org ; athompson@rcal.org; dappleman@MH-LLP.com

Youth Leadership Subcommittee o Chair: Vacant

Vice Chair: o Crystal Rivera, cryz313@gmail.com, CRivera@dca.nyc.gov.

Non-Council Members:o Lyndsi Holmes: lholmes@albanydamiencenter.orgo David Dodge: ddconsults@gmail.com. o Melanie Hecker: mhecker@albany.edu.o Marc Rosen, marc.rosen88@gmail.com.

D: marc.rosen88@gmail.com, ddconsults@gmail.com, melanietheproud@yahoo.com, cryz313@gmail.com, CRivera@dca.nyc.gov, lholmes@albanydamiencenter.org

E: marc.rosen88@gmail.com; ddconsults@gmail.com; melanietheproud@yahoo.com; cryz313@gmail.com ; CRivera@dca.nyc.gov ; lholmes@albanydamiencenter.org

Consumer Satisfaction Survey Subcommittee o Chair: Aaron Baier, abaier@aticortland.org

Vice Chair: o Doug Usiak, dusiak@wnyil.org.o Ann Scherff, alscherff@aol.com. o Jan Lynch, jan@fliconline.org.o John Zick, jzick@aimcil.com. o Joseph Tedesco, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov. o Rookmini Mangal, Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov.

Non-Council Members:34

o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.o Margi Trapani, mtrapani@cidny.org.o Denise Figueroa, dfigueroa@ilchv.org.o Alan Krieger, consultant: alan@kriegersolutions.com. o Amy Wink: awink@nysilc.org.

D: bradw@nysilc.org, dusiak@wnyil.org, mtrapani@cidny.org, dfigueroa@ilchv.org, abaier@aticortland.org, alscherff@aol.com, jan@fliconline.org, jzick@aimcil.com, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov, Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.govalan@kriegersolutions.com, awink@nysilc.org

E: bradw@nysilc.org; dusiak@wnyil.org; bradw@nysilc.org; mtrapani@cidny.org; dfigueroa@ilchv.org; abaier@aticortland.org ; alscherff@aol.com ; jan@fliconline.org ; jzick@aimcil.com; Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov; Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov ; alan@kriegersolutions.com; awink@nysilc.org

Database Work Group o Chair: Roger Benn, rogerbenn1@gmail.com

Vice Chair: o Doug Usiak, dusiak@wnyil.org.o Aileen Martin, aileenm@nrcil.net.o Lindsay Miller, lmiller@ilny.org.o Rookmini Mangal, Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov. o Joseph Tedesco, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov.

Non-Council Members:o Ken Dibble, kend@stic-cil.org.o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.o Laurel Kelley, laurelk@cdciweb.com/Dawn Werner, dwerner@cdciweb.com.o Brett Eisenberg, brett@bils.org.o Patrick Muller, p.muller@taconicresources.org.o Rocco Semeraro, ras@es11.com.

D: rogerbenn1@gmail.com, dusiak@wnyil.org, aileenm@nrcil.net, lmiller@ilny.org, kend@stic-cil.org, bradw@nysilc.org, laurelk@cdciweb.com, dwerner@cdciweb.com, brett@bils.org, p.muller@taconicresources.org, ras@es11.com, Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov,

E: rogerbenn1@gmail.com; dusiak@wnyil.org; aileenm@nrcil.net; lmiller@ilny.org; kend@stic-cil.org; bradw@nysilc.org; laurelk@cdciweb.com; dwerner@cdciweb.com; brett@bils.org; p.muller@taconicresources.org; ras@es11.com; Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov; Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov;

Needs Assessment Committee o Chair: Doug Usiak, dusiak@wnyil.org

Vice Chair: o Carla Lewis-Irizarry, Carlalewis34@gmail.com.o Joe Bravo, jbravo@wilc.org.

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Non-Council Members:o Brad Williams, bradw@nysilc.org.o Marieta Austin, marieta.austin_udi@aol.com, maustinudi@gmail.com. o Sue Ruff, advocate@stic-cil.org. o Peg Graham, MBA, MPH, pgraham@quainc.com. o Alan Krieger: alan@kriegersolutions.com.

D: dusiak@wnyil.org, Carlalewis34@gmail.com, jbravo@wilc.org, bradw@nysilc.org, marieta.austin_udi@aol.com, alan@kriegersolutions.com, advocate@stic-cil.org, maustinudi@gmail.com, robin.jones@sni.org, pgraham@quainc.com

E: dusiak@wnyil.org; Carlalewis34@gmail.com; jbravo@wilc.org; bradw@nysilc.org; marieta.austin_udi@aol.com; alan@kriegersolutions.com; advocate@stic-cil.org; maustinudi@gmail.com; pgraham@quainc.com

CARES Act Ad Hoc Work Groups:

CAWG1:Doug Usiak, NYSILC Chair, Lindsay Miller, Joe Bravo, Laurel Kelley, Aileen Martin, John Zick, Denise Figueroa, and Bruce Darling (both former council members), Joe Tedesco (DSE member), and Brad Williams.

D: dusiak@wnyil.org, LMiller@ilny.org, jbravo@wilc.org, lkelley@cdciweb.com, Lkelley@Nobleharbor.Com, aileenm@nrcil.net, jzick@aimcil.com, Dfigueroa@Ilchv.Org, dfigueroa@ilchv.org, bdarling@cdrnys.org, Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov, bradw@nysilc.org

E: dusiak@wnyil.org; LMiller@ilny.org; jbravo@wilc.org; lkelley@cdciweb.com; Lkelley@Nobleharbor.Com; aileenm@nrcil.net; jzick@aimcil.com; Dfigueroa@Ilchv.Org; dfigueroa@ilchv.org; bdarling@cdrnys.org; Joseph.Tedesco@nysed.gov; bradw@nysilc.org

CC: vshubina@wnyil.org; kjacobi@wnyil.org; ltaylor@cdrnys.org

CAWG2:Aaron Baier, Jan Lynch, Ann Scherff, Luticha Doucette, Denise DiNoto, Cynthia Alcozer, Rich Beadon, Rookmini Mangal (DSE member) Chad Eldred Bob Meek.

D: abaier@aticortland.org, jan@fliconline.org, alscherff@aol.com, luticha.doucette@cityofrochester.gov, lutichadoucette@gmail.com, Denise@cdchoices.org, denisemdinoto@gmail.com, calcozer@acmenys.org, richiebeadon@gmail.com, Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov, chade@stic-cil.org, chad.eldred@gmail.com, robert.w.meek50@gmail.com

E: abaier@aticortland.org; jan@fliconline.org; alscherff@aol.com; luticha.doucette@cityofrochester.gov; lutichadoucette@gmail.com; Denise@cdchoices.org; denisemdinoto@gmail.com; calcozer@acmenys.org;

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richiebeadon@gmail.com; Rookmini.Mangal@nysed.gov; chade@stic-cil.org; chad.eldred@gmail.com; robert.w.meek50@gmail.com

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V. Executive Committee ReportE. Discussion/Action: Recommendation of the Executive and Recruitment

Committees -

NYSILC 2021 Appointment Recommendations

Appointments: Brodie Enoch, Organization serving individuals with disabilities, 2021-2023+

(replacing Daniel Fuster) Stephanie Woodward, Other appropriate individuals, 2021-2023+

(replacing Henry Nixon, Jr.) Marcus Johnson, Organization serving individuals with disabilities, 2021-2023+

(replacing Lindsay Miller) Yesenia Torres, Other appropriate individuals, 2021-2023+

(replacing Joe Bravo – note: appointment category change – was CIL representative)

Reappointments: Cliff Perez, CIL Representative, 2021-2023. Kathryn Carroll, Esq, Advocate, 2021-2023. Edith Prentiss, Other appropriate individuals, 2021-2023. Jan Lynch, Advocate, 2021-2023. Joseph Tedesco, DSE Ex Officio, 2021-2023. Maria Samuels, Advocate, 2021-2023. Vernon Bonse, Organization serving individuals with disabilities, 2021-2023. Chad Eldred, Organization serving individuals with disabilities, 2021-2023. Lynn Drucker, Parent/guardian, 2021-2023.

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VIII. Committee & Subcommittee ReportsD. SPIL Committee

NY Federal CIL Directors MeetingMay 21, 202010:30 am

Present: Tania Anderson, Brad Williams, Zvia McCormick, Doug Usiak, Brett Eisenberg, Rene Snyder, Joe Bravo, Christina Curry, Lindsay Miller, Aileen Martin

Joe Bravo started the meeting, following the agenda.

CARES Act Report - Brad Williams: NYSILC created a webpage for the NY CIL CARES Act. It includes the funding, FAQs, emails, and related items. We can reference it to have quick access to important items. Aileen called Peter but got no response. Brad noted a similar experience related to the Program Performance Report (PPR). The group shared different experiences and perspectives. It was agreed that an attempt should be made to reach out to Peter and or his supervisor to increase communication regarding what is needed regarding the CARES Act and CIL plans.

Tania said given the length of time provided to spend the CARES Act funding, she is very concerned about committing too soon to a potentially limiting list of actions/items for expending the funds. Doug added that we shouldn’t have to submit a plan for approval but rather address temporary emergency policies approved by our boards.

The group continued to discuss how they intended to spend the funds. Denise Figueroa said they are using the money to pay staff to do outreach and delivery, as well as purchase equipment and food that people may be unable to access. Joe Bravo said he’s waiting to see what state cuts may look like first. They have several options in mind. Other centers provided their input on intended usage.

Brad noted that if any center intended to do outreach outside of their service area, then they would need to reference it in the ACL 2018 disaster services policy as stated in the new draft SPIL for 2021-2023. It is clearly stated in the middle of the NY CARES Act webpage.

Brad reported they are getting close to finalizing the draft SPIL for 2021-2023. It will include several requested changes for additional information related to the CIL CARES Act. Projected budget amounts for next year and potential use of the funds are two areas. Brad added that all the materials will be pulled together some time at the beginning of June and sent out to the federal CIL directors for signatures.

Brad touched upon the CIL operational survey. We had 70% participation. He posted the overall summary at the bottom of the CL CARES Act webpage. A few results were summarized. The major training topics were discussed. NYAIL will take these subjects and look to develop them into future webinars.

Aileen mentioned they have a fantastic Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and she’s happy to share the information for anyone who is interested.

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Other: We will follow up with one another and be in touch. Perhaps a follow up meeting in September. At least a brief follow up to the operational survey.

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VIII. Committee & Subcommittee ReportsH. Database Workgroup/summary of small group meeting

Meeting was held 5/15/20 with a small group of the database work group to focus in on the goal to have one database site for all centers to report to. This then narrowed the focus to the existing ACCES-VR reporting portal, and what was essential to add to the new database. A set of items were discussed and identified (from section III, total CSRs and 3-4 other total categories also potentially sorted by general funding categories ACCES-VR only, other funding only, multiple funding, total funding). A discussion challenged the increase to the number of data points from the original set. Brad investigated this with the web developers. The original common data fields were around 15 data points. These additional items, while about another 15, would really be only 5-7 because some are presented as choices. Bottom line. We have 20-22 data points. From the web developer’s perspective, this is a very modest database.

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VIII. Committee & Subcommittee ReportsI. Consumer Satisfaction Survey Subcommittee minutes

Consumer Satisfaction Survey SubcommitteeMay 8. 20201:00 PM

Present: Aaron Baier, Doug Usiak, Brad Williams, Jan Lynch, Amy Wink, Joe Tedesco, Alan Krieger, and Emily Bianchine The purpose of the call was to address the work priorities of the committee for the next surveying cycle.

Aaron started the meeting with a review of the questions and the language for the second draft of the 2021 Consumer Satisfaction Survey (CSS) instrument. The group discussed the title of the survey and decided it should be the NYS Center for Independent Living (CIL) 2021 Consumer Satisfaction Survey. We should also use CIL or Center (and capitalize Center) throughout the document.

For the statement of purpose, we will want to check readability and make it easier to understand. Brad went over the current statement. Doug suggested more friendly language, and Alan added that we keep it to what they care about. The group added more comments and agreed it was something to improve.

Brad went through the questions. Question one has a drop-down box now where individuals can select their center (and Alan said he thinks the center name can be populated or “piped” into questions below – he’ll let us know). Staff will work on instructions for the consumer to select their Center/CIL. The group discussed logistics related to the dropdown menu and which ways might work best.

Brad and Doug discussed the possibility of removing the statement about working with a “primary” center. Everyone agreed to remove question 2: How did you respond to this survey, because it doesn’t really matter. The group discussed and decided it’s up to each center to track this data, if they find it important. The change will be made

Amy mentioned that the questions have already been edited based on the comments she received. The group discussed “the staff and I were able to speak easily and clearly” and if this is exactly, we want to know. The group tossed around several different ways to express the question. They ultimately decided to leave the wording as it was, perhaps using “communicate” instead of “speak.” The group liked the wording of “the staff was ready to work with me to solve problems.” In the case of the next two questions, Alan suggested we add an N/A option to questions where it applies. (“The staff got back to me in a timely manner” as well as “The staff helped me meet my goals” were both discussed and left as is).

For the next question, “The staff allowed me to make my own decisions,” members decided against using the word “allow.” It was changed to “I was able to make my own decisions?" The group ultimately decided this was the best wording.

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On the next question, “The services I received helped me feel more confident,” members discussed different possible alternatives, and decided ultimately to leave it as it was.

The remaining questions were straightforward, and the demographics are standard. We do need to make sure the readability is okay. The group discussed the possibility of changing the list of demographics – unless it becomes burdensome. It was noted that continuation of the same categories will allow for comparison between cycles.

There wasn’t enough time left to discuss the weighted scale issue. Brad suggested we create an online discussion about the scoring scale, since it’s a large topic. The group agreed. While we know we need an 85% benchmark, the question is how to weigh the point system. The group started to discuss different options, and ultimately decided to discuss it further in email communications. Aaron will develop a spreadsheet with what he is envisioning. This will allow us to have a better understanding of the topic before the next committee meeting.

Meeting adjourned.

Consumer Satisfaction Survey SubcommitteeJune 10, 20202:00 pm

Present: Aaron Baier, Doug Usiak, Brad Williams, Jan Lynch, Amy Wink, John Zick, Rookmini Mangal, Alan Krieger, and Emily Bianchine.

Brad started the meeting by explaining the use of “piping” – which means when the center’s name is selected in question one via a drop-down menu, that name gets populated (or inserted in selected locations) in the question(s) below. This will only apply to one or two questions.

Brad noted that the final draft of the online survey was provided via a link. Changes were provided based on the feedback provided at the last meeting. Amy needs to go back in and fix a few questions so the survey taker can choose more than one answer. Doug had a concern about the accessibility of the survey, and Amy said she’d go back in and see if she can fix it – she will speak to Doug separately after this meeting. Alan had some recommendations for the wording when we say, “the center.” Amy went into Survey Monkey to fix this, as well as change it so one person can take the survey more than once. This will help when more than one person in a household needs to respond and for centers who need to enter survey responses for various reasons (per the methodology).

As for the survey weight and scoring, Aaron created an Excel scoring sheet with some examples of how we might want to approach this. Aaron took the group through the sheet. It included the average scored per questions, the average scores per individual, and the average agency scores. There are three groupings: dissatisfied 1-2.5, neutral 2.6-3.4, and satisfied 3.5-5. He explained how the number of people taking the survey (# who respond and how it is a comparison of the number of neutral and satisfied versus those dissatisfied. Each question creates a percentage which then totals to an overall score that can be compared to the benchmark 85% obligation.

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Doug and Rookmini discussed the need to follow up on the scoring. Brad made the point that neutral really should be given more weight, as it’s more on the positive side. The group discussed and decided this is a good scale – anything 3 or above will be considered “satisfied.” Alan thinks this new scoring is much better than what we used to have.

Brad will follow up and send a summary of this method to ACCES-VR to get their approval. It was further agreed that NYSILC staff will do the processing of the data because we are neutral, and it would be consistent.

The last item are the consumer satisfaction survey to-do items: support materials, final adjustments to methodology, webpage, alternate language versions of the survey, etc. NYSILC staff will finalize these items during the summer. The committee will re-convene in late September to review progress. In October, we will send out a communication to the network about the preliminary needs for the survey to the participating centers.

Meeting adjourned.

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VIII. Committee & Subcommittee ReportsJ. Monitoring & Evaluation Committee minutes

Monitoring and Evaluation CommitteeMay 14, 202011:00 AM

Present: Emily Bianchine, Brad Williams, Chad Eldred, Doug Usiak, Maria Samuels, Ann Scherff, Alan Krieger

Chad had Brad reviewed the agenda items. The first item was a discussion of the first draft of the NYSILC 2019 SPIL evaluation report. Alan said that overall, the objectives were substantially met. Some were close to being 100% met. Brad mentioned he had a few thoughts on areas for changes and sent them to Alan before the meeting. Most provided clarity for the report. Chad had some input on page 20. Alan went through the rest of the report asking or additional input. Brad talked about adding to the “lessons learned” section. Ann added that having structure helps keep things focused within programs. Doug said that for lessons learned, the council should look at the success of the program rather than just working on all the technical things. He suggested that ACCES-VR should help more with structure and technical assistance for the programs being supported. Brad noted that in the draft SPIL, there is an action item where we will work on summarizing our collective impact over the past 2-3 SPILs with unserved/underserved populations/groups (such as the CBILCO projects). Identify what we’ve accomplished as a network, learned, and what we need to do next.

Ann asked a question about accessing the goals for Independent Living skills training. Brad said he didn’t remember seeing much about that, other than “other services provided”. The group then engaged in a discussion about measuring and tracking results, along with the differences with IL and the veteran’s programs. It ended with a question of how the veteran’s demonstration project developed their objectives. There were too many items, they weren’t impactful, and seemed duplicative. They could have benefitted from some assistance. Brad provided feedback about how the SILC thought it might be a good idea to allow the awardee of the project to have the “local control” to create their own measurable indicators. Alan brought it back to the lesson, what did we learn? This was a creative thought, but it wasn’t such a good idea. It lacked structure and guidance. Going forward, the SILC needs to provide measurable indicators for projects and or provide assistance to projects to develop them.

Brad asked Ann if she wanted more feedback from the veteran’s project about the IL skills indicator. She agreed. He will follow up with them at the same time he checks in about the status of the lessons learned relating to coronavirus for their “how to” manual. Doug asked a question related to the process of evaluating the evaluator of our evaluation process. Alan responded that he has been providing his feedback to the committee. It hasn’t been a formal process, more of a “give and take” communication. However, Alan is always open to feedback and ways to improve his performance/services and the process.

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Brad said he wanted to get the report out to the council by the full council meeting in May to give the members two weeks to look over it. Alan said he’d get it done by Monday so that the deadline could be met.

The group then shifted to their quarterly monitoring duty. They discussed the NYSILC report. Brad clarified a typo and page number. He highlighted how the 2019 PPR finally got approved and talked about how Pat Figueroa scholarships have been affected by the coronavirus. Chad said this would be an interesting because this would be the last report before the coronavirus hit. Moving forward, reports will most like be impacted.

Everyone was good with the SSAN report and noted continued accomplishments. For the TRI veteran’s demonstration project, members commented on a few items. AN effort was being made to promote the project in social media, trying to market their program. They did have some unduplicated people served during the quarter. A discussion ensued about the impact of veteran’s and technology and the impact of COVID. Doug added his perspective about the different classifications of veterans and how each type would be impacted for needing or wanting to use the service program.

Brad reiterated he’d follow up with TRI as indicated. Alan will complete the draft SPIL evaluation report by the deadline.

Meeting adjourned.

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