August 11, 2023 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MAYOR'S COMMITTEE ON PEOPLE WITH DISABILITES Friday, August 11, 2023 4. APPROVAL OF THE July 17, 2023 MEETING MINUTES Motion made by Secretary, Sandra Schuffler to approve the July 17, 2023 meeting minutes. Committee Member, Rebecca Bennett seconded. Motion passed. (4 ayes, 0 nays) 5. PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON AGENDA ITEMS No testimony from the public 6. COUNTY MASS TRANSIT PRESENTATION Mass Transit Administrator, Victor Kandle spoke regarding Paratransit and Beyond Paratransit (shared Taxi). The Mass Transit Agency launched a new Shared Ride Program where the customers must now present their Shared Ride Program Identification Card instead of the taxi coupons. Victor spoke regarding the recent Mass Transit Agency Bus Stop ADA Improvements. Mass Transit has constructed new concrete Bus pads, concrete walkways, and have replaced signs and posts. (Handouts were distributed in the meeting, showing the MTA Bus Stop ADA Improvements.) Mass Transit is also working on making the Flag Stops easier to identify, as well as adding bus stop shelters at a number of locations. Mass Transit is currently acquiring 14 new buses, and 25 more buses over the next 2-3 years. The newer buses will have automatic stop announcements, kneeling capabilities, low floors with ramps instead of lifts, and more. Victor shared that Mass Transit has a Mystery Rider program, where the riders will use the Bus system, and will observe and report directly to Mass Transit. Mass Transit Outreach includes the National Federation for the Blind, East Hawaii Disability Legislative Forums, and Hawaii Island Adult Care. Mass Transit, Kasie Kailikea spoke regarding the Internal Signage in the buses. Although, there are some newer buses which have the Internal Signage, it is currently not operable, but Mass Transit is working on it. Kasie explained the older buses do not have the enunciator or the screens which tell you what stop you are at. Mass Transit recommends that when the rider boards the bus, they ask, write, or text to the bus driver of the specific stop they have to get off at and sit in the front seats closer to the driver. Each bus driver is equipped with booklet which shows the different stops the rider can point to. Secretary, Schuffler asked if paratransit drivers are trained to handle individuals who have a seizure disorder. Mass Transit, Tiffany Kai shared that Paratransit drivers are trained in CPR and First Aid, but are also trained to assess the situation and to call 911 or go to the hospital if an individual is not feeling well. E