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HomeMy WebLinkAbout5-18-2016 minutesWilliam P. Kenoi Mayor C. Kimo Alameda, Ph.D. Executive on Aging HAWAII COUNTY OFFICE OF AGING Aging and Disability Resource Center, 1055 Kino'ole Street, Suite 101, Hilo, Hawaii 96720-3872 Phone (808) 961-8600 Fax (808) 961-8603 Email: hcoa@hawaiiantel.net West Hawaii Civic Center, 74-5044 Ane KeohokAlole Highway, Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i 96740 Phone (808) 323-4390 Fax (808) 323-4398 Mayor's Committee on People with Disabilities Minutes May 18, 2016 The County of Hawaii Mayor's Committee on People with Disabilities met at 10.15 a.m. at the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1055 Kino'ole Street, Hilo, Hawai'i. The meeting was chaired by Laura Tobosa. MEMBERS PRESENT: Laura Tobosa, Chair; Pauline Aughe, Vice Chair; Janice Mancini, Secretary, Richard Dinges, Susan Shirachi. Joshua Pratt ABSENT: Sam Nagasawa (Excused). Pamela Punihaole OTHERS PRESENT AND GUESTS: J Yoshimoto, Corporation Council; Teri Spinola- Campbell, ADA Coordinator; Alisa Mitchener, Parks & Recreation; Karyle Yamane Mass Transit, Ilihia Gionson, Executive Assistant to the Mayor, Dr. Carl Oguss, Karin Riedel, Kauila Haumea, Gail Yoshishige, Theone Suzuki, and Chris Lecee, CALL TO ORDER Laura Tobosa called the meeting to order at 10:15 a.m. STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC (Agenda Items) No Statements APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE April 20, 2016 MEETING Richard Dinges moves to approve meeting minutes Pauline Aughe seconds. Everyone is in favor of approving minutes. Minutes approved. CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION Ilihia Gionson presented certificates from the Mayor to Kauila Haumea, Gail Yoshishige, Paul Pascua, Jessie McDonald, Janice Mancini, Teri Spinola-Campbell, and Alisa Mitchener Presentation by Karvle Yamane of Hele On Kaiko'o Paratransit (See Hele On Kako'o attached forms) Presentation by Dr. Kimo Alameda on "No Wrong Door" K. Alameda explained that this initiative is a 3 Year Grant. Its purpose is to create more collaborative relationships within the various departments. "The one stop shop for all elderly activities and programs." (See attached brochure) K. Alameda mentioned that Debbie Shimizu (statewide coordinator), will be at the Office of Aging in Hilo on May 27th at 10:00 am to do a presentation on the "No Wrong Door" Initiative. P. Aughe suggested that since Aging and Disability has a one stop center, maybe the next step would be to collaborate with other departments in the county. Presentation by Dr. Carl Oquss Dr. Oguss explained how this program helps the elderly and disabled to feel loved and valued through working with dogs. He mentioned that this program offers the individual a chance to do something and keep active Unfinished Business None New Business Janice Mancini wanted to know if the bids have gone out for Richardson's. Alisa Mitchener replied "nothing yet". Report on the Recreation Ad Hoc Committee. A. Mitchener reported that the Ad Hoc Committee did not have a chance to meet. One of the Committee members is out on medical leave and the other will be leaving for the mainland. 2 Alisa mentioned that they would need to have representation by the mayor's committee on the Ad Hoc Committee in order to continue. R. Dinges volunteered to fill the position J Yoshimoto confirmed that replacing the member outgoing member is fine. REPORT OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAII EQUAL OPPORTUNITY OFFICER AND ADA COORDINATOR, TERI SPINOLA-CAMPBELL Teri Spinola-Campbell informed the committee that she is continuing to work with Karyle on Paratransit issues providing ethical support on issues that come up. Teri has also been working with Alisa on issues with pool lifts, functioning or not in various pools Teri met with the crew from Traffic who is doing a prototype first "audible" pedestrian signal and also reported that Public Works has been getting a lot of questions regarding the signage that says "Blind Route" along the Ho'olulu Complex. REPORT FROM COUNTY OF HAWAII RECREATION SPECIALIST, ALISA MITCHENER A. Mitchener read the report (See attachment) ANNOUNCEMENTS A. Mitchener would like to present certificates of appreciation for both Chris Cholas and Daniel Grant -Johnson at the next meeting. R. Dinges makes a motion to approve the 2 names J. Mancini seconds All in favor. Motion passes. J. Mancini mentioned that she will be leaving the committee and moving to the mainland in June. R. Dinges asked what the process is to fill the vacant position on the committee. J Yoshimoto answered that the Mayor appoints after the application is completed. Susan Shirachi wanted to know if Mr. Hanson from the Civil Defense office could come 3 and give the committee an update of the resources here for persons with disabilities during natural emergencies. L. Tobosa said to coordinate that with Mr. Hanson. NEXT MEETING L. Tobosa said the next meeting is scheduled for June 15, 2016 ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned 11:50. Respectfully submitted, Kalen Koga Transcriber 4 County of Hawaii Mass Transit Agency (MTA) Paratransit Service General Information Regulatory Definition: Eligibility for Hete-On Kako'o (HOK) paratransit service is directly related to the Inability of a person with a disability/to use our existing fixed route service. The regulations describe three specific circumstances under which a person may be considered ADA paratranstt eligible: 1. An individual who, as the result of a physical or mental impairment (including a vision impairment), without the assistance of another person (except the operator of a wheelchair tiff or other boarding assistance device), is unable to board, ride or disembark from an accessible bus, or is unable to independently navigate the system (e.g., inability to recognize & board the correct bus, inability to have the correct fare available or is unable to use the fare collection system, cannot recognize destination(s) or lacks cognizant ability to successfully reach destination if transfers need to be made). 2. Any individual who could use the fixed route service, but cannot because the fixed route he/she wants to ride is not wheelchair tiff equipped or the bus stop is not accessible due to physical characteristics of the stop. Please note that all of our fixed -route buses are equipped with wheelchair Tiffs. 3. A person whose disability interacts with the environment in such a way as it prevents travel to or from a bus stop (e.g. individuals with cardiac conditions can walk several blocks to bus stops, but doing so in very hot weather may put them at unreasonable risk). This category also includes architectural bafflers and environmental conditions that prevent travel to or from a bus stop (e.g. complex intersections or busy streets certain individuals with disabilities may not be able to cross, or lack of curb ramps or alternative accessible pathways that would make individuals who use mobility devices travel in the street, while others are able to use the sidewalk). Distance to or from the bus stop alone does not qualify someone as being eligible. Lack of fixed route service or inconvenient bus schedules is also not a basis for eligibility. HOK service operates during the same hours as the regular fixed route service and service is available within corridors whose boundaries extend up to one {1) mile beyond the intra -Hilo and intra -Kona Hele-On fixed bus routes. A map of the coverage area can be found via our website at www.heleonbus.org, the County of Hawai'i MTA. office, KTA Superstores in Waimea,. Kailua- Kona and Keauhou, and the Mo'oheau Bus Terminal in Hilo. Rev 5/2016 HOK service and scheduling guidelines include scheduling trips 1 to 14 days prior to the requested travel date, and picking up customers within a quoted 30 minute pick-up window spanning 15 mreed pon pick 12' 00 pm, the Kako'o passenger could F d b picked up anytime from 11ick up time. For example, if the 45 amutto 12:15 pm time is There are four types of Eligibility: • Unconditional eligibility - an individual who can never use the fixed route service independently. • Conditional eligibility - an individual who can use the fixed route service under certain circumstances, but is otherwise limited by some varying environmental, physical or health conditions that may be present for some trips. • Temporary eligibility (conditional or unconditional) - an individual whose disability prevents the use of the fixed route service during a designated time period. • Visitor - a person who provides proof of paratransit eligibility in another jurisdiction is automatically eligible and HOK will provide up to 21 days of paratransit service per 365 - day period. If the visitor needs service for more than 21 days, the regular application process will apply. Eligibility An individual's eligibility is determined by three factors. Due to the individual's disability, the individual is: • unable to get to/from the bus stop • unable to board/exit the bus • cognitively unable to navigate the regular bus system ADA Eligibility Objective Eligibility is not based on the disability, but rather the functional inability of someone to use the fixed route service. It is to determine when and under what circumstances an individual can and cannot use the fixed route service. An individual's eligibility for paratransit service is not based on a medical decision; eligibility is based on functional ability. Hele On Kako`o Service The applicant's disability and how it affects their functional ability to use regular bus service is the only criterion used in determining eligibility. Operational issues are not considered in the eligibility process. These are issues that affect any individual, whether they suffer from a disability or not. Operational issues that are not used to determine eligibility, include: • Age of rider • Distance (bus stop is "too far" or inconvenient) • Overcrowded buses • Weather conditions that do not affect a rider's functional ability • Lack of regular bus service to an area Rev 5/2016 What Types of Trips can be taken on Hele On Kako'o? Hele- On Kako'o can be used for the majority of your transportation needs. This includes: • Work • School • Medical appointments • Recreation • Shopping Hele On Kako'o Fares The standard fare is $4 per passenger for each one-way trip within the intra -Hilo and Intra -Kona fixed route service areas and their respective surrounding one -mile corridors. The $4.00 fare amount is for a ONE-WAY ride. Individuals booking a round trip will be charged $4.00 each way. If multiple stops are scheduled throughout the day, a $4.00 fare for each pickup and destination point will be charged. Other travelers If traveling with Personal Care Attendant (PCA), the PCA is subject to the terms of PCA ridership and shall embark and disembark at the same stops with the paratransit rider. The PCA shall not be charged a fare while' acting in the capacity as an attendant to the eligible rider. At least one companion (non -PCA) may ride with any eligible paratransit rider as long as space is available. A companion who is not registered as the PCA shall be charged the standard fare. Certification Process The in-person assessment process will normally take about 1 1/2 hours. The certification process consists of a completed application, a brief phone interview, and an eligibility assessment. If you are required to complete an in-person functional assessment and use a mobility device, please bring the device to your appointment. You may be asked to perform physical and cognitive tasks normally associated with independently riding our fixed route bus. Preparing for your In-person assessment You will need to bring the following with you to your scheduled appointment: • A valid, government -issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport, state ID); • A completed Hele On Kako'o paratransit application; • Any mobility or assistive devices you require while traveling. In addition, you may also want to bring any of the following documentation about your disability: • statement from a disability service provider about your need for paratransit service, • statement from a medical professional about your need for paratransit service, • journal showing the impact of travel on your disability, health, energy stamina, etc., • listing of access barriers that prevent you from traveling to/from the bus stop (e.g. no curb cuts, no sidewalks, an extremely busy intersection, no pedestrian signals, or hilly terrain) Your photo will also be taken at this time. HOK transportation service may be made available to and from the functional assessment upon request. Rev 5/2016 After the assessment is complete tion is Applicants will be notified in writing of their eligibilitylit determiie the n do to use theOK application s once ti their received and the assessment is complete. App eligibility decisions take longer than 21 days. if you are deemed eligible for the HOK service, you will receive 'a HOK paratransit photo ID with an identification number and a Rider's Guide explaining the HOK service andreservation process in more detail. In addition to the functional assessment, the MTA may require a location assessment or physical survey of the pickup or drop-off area(s) prior to scheduling 110K service to determine if there are any vehicle accessibility and safety concerns. In the event our HOK vehicles are unable to enter an area to safely pick up a passenger, an alternate pickup location will be suggested. Initial eligibility and recertification HOK eligibility is certified upto a period of three (3) years, but more frequent assessments or eligibility reviews may be required depending on eligibility type and if the rider's eligibility conditions change. This process helps ensure ridership eligibility, program efficiency and information accuracy. Customers wishing to continue HOK service must reapply and complete the eligibility process prior to their eligibility expiration date in order to prevent a lapse in HOK service. For additional information or assistance, please contact the Hele-On Kako'o Eligibility Division at 961-8343 or visit the Hele On website at www.heleonbus.orq. Once you've completed your application for Hele-On Kako'o Paratransit Service, please call the County of Hawaii Mass Transit Authority (MTA) at 961-8343 to conduct your In-person interview and coordinate your functional in-person assessment. Right to Appeal Persons who are determined to be ineligible for Hele-On Kako'o paratransit service have the right to appeal the decision. A written request to appeal must be filed along with a copy of the determination letter, within 60 days of receipt of the ineligible determination letter, to the County of Hawaii Transportation Commission at 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, HI 96720. Rev 5/2016 HELE-ON KAKO'O PARATRANSIT APPLICATION After completing this application, please call the County of Hawaii Mass Transit Authority to schedule your in-person functional ability assessment at (808) 961-8343. 1. PERSONAL INFORMATION - please print clearly M.I. Last Name: First: _Female ___Male Date of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY): _J ---J HOME/PHYSICAL ADDRESS: ZIP: Street City: Primary Phone: (._____) Alternate Phone: ( ) - MAILING ADDRESS (If different from above): ZIP: Street: City: EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION (required): Name: Relationship: Primary Phone: ( ) Alternate Phone: (_) 2. MOBILITY INFORMATION - please pdnt clearly Please state your disability: Which of the following mobility aids or equipment do you use? (check all that apply) o *Power wheelchair Length (inches): Width (inches): ❑ *Manual wheelchair Length (inches)* Width (inches): o Scooter Length (Inches): Width (inches): ❑ Walker ❑ Crutches ❑ Portable oxygen tank o Cane ❑ Service animal ❑ Other (please explain): ❑ None *The maximum weight capacity of the vehicle ramp is a combined total weight of 600 pounds. If you exceed this limit, you must be able to board the vehicle separately from your mobility device. *Vehicle ramp width and length may vary from vehicle to vehicle; however, the minimum dimensions of any vehicle ramp is 30" (wide) and 48" (length). Do you require the use of a personal care attendant* (PCA)? —Yes — Noon Hele *Your PCA must be registered with the County of Hawai'i MTA to accompany you On Kako'o at no charge, subject to the rules and regulations regarding PCA. If you checked yes, please complete the following: Name of PCA: Phone: PCA's address: (continued on next page) Rev 5/2016 Is your disability permanent? _ yes no If you indicated no, what is the expected duration? Please select the category that best descibes your situation: C1 _ 1 am unable to use ADA accessible buses on the fixed route service as I have a physical, mental or visual disability or impairment preventing me from using the Hele On bus independently. I have trouble (please check all that apply): _ boarding/disembarking the bus identifying the correct bus _ riding due to grasping disability (e.g. unable to grasp/handle coins to pay fare, hold on to handles/railings) riding due to balance issues (e.g. unable to keep balance while seated on a moving vehicle) _ understanding or processing information necessary to make decisions during the trip — other (please explain): am able to use ADA accessible buses on the fixed route service, but my bus slop is not accessible due to the physical characteristics of the stop. C2 Please indicate location of stop and what barriers prevent your accessibility: C3 I am able to use ADA accessible buses on the fixed route service, but I have an impairment -related condition preventing me from getting to and/or from the nearest bus stop and (please check the circumstance that applies): I am unable to travel to the nearest bus stop. If this is checked, how far are you able to travel on your own or with the assistance of your mobility device? (1 block = 500 feet) I am unable to wait at the bus stop for the following reason(s): I am prevented from traveling to and/or from boarding location due to the following reason(s): inability to negotiatehilly terrain extreme sensitivity of climatic conditions allergic/envirnonmental sensitivities night -blindness inability to cross busy intersections other (please explain): Signature: Date: Name of Person if Other Than Applicant Completing Form: Relationship: Contact Phone: IMPORTANT! DO NOT MAILI CALL 9M-8343 FOR YOUR INTERVIEW AND IN-PERSON ASSESSMENT SCHEDULING You must bring in valid photo identification and this completed ADA paratransit service application to your in-person assessment appointment. Rev 5/2016 "nri ten David Ige, Governor, State of Hawaii Dr. Virginia Pressler, Director, Department of Health Terri Byers. Director, Executive Office on Aging In collaboration with Vie Exectave Office an Aging, Hawaii County Office of Agog, City end County of Rana& Elderly Affairs Divi ion. Maul County Office on Aging and County of Kauai Agency on Ededy Affairs, the ADRC initiative is funded in pert by the U.S. Admin- istration on Aging end Cadens for Medicare and Medicaid Services, State of Hawaii, and Counties of Hawaii, Maui, Kauai and City and County of Honolulu Non-Disvininel on Statement VVe provide across to our activities without regard to race, cater, rational origin, Ienguege, age. sex (lxtuding gender identity ar expression), sexual orientation, religion Of may. Contact the Executive Office on Aging at 250 Sash Hotel Street, Suite 408, Honok*L, Ha- waii 98813 ar call (808)588-0100 or our Manilas Action Officer at P.O. Box 3378, Honolu- lu, HI 98801 or call (808)588-4814 (ort) witNn 180 days of a problem. Do You Have Questions About Aging or Disabilities? ADRC HAWAII AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER ENGLISH (12/15) What is the ADRC? The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is a trusted source where people of all ages and income can tum to for answers about aging, disabilities and caregiving. www.HawaiiADRC.org How can the ADRC help YOU? • Provide you with Information and Assistance about services and supports in the community • Offer counseling on options that are available to meet your personal services and support needs • If needed, develop a personal support plan based on your needs, values and preferences • Review your eligibility for publicly funded programs such as Medicaid, or State -funded KUPUNA CARE services for frail elders What happens when 1 call 643-ADRC? • An ADRC specialist will ask you questions about what you need • The ADRC specialist will provide you with information on the services you need • If you are in need of publicly funded services, a worker may set up a home visit to assess your situation. They may assist you with developing a support plan that will help keep you at home, independent, and safe for as long as possible ADA Coordinator's Report May 18,2016 • We are addressing the poor performance of a pool lift with the manufacturer. • I have been continuing to provide technical assistance to our Paratransit Specialist in the Mass Transit Agency. • Our Traffic Division installed an audible pedestrian signal at Kamehameha Avenue and Manono Street, and we are in the process of fine tuning the audible signals for the consumer who is blind. Mayors Committee on People with Disabilities May 18, 2016 Recreation Report Alisa Mitchener, Recreation Specialist for Program Access RECREATION Island Wide Summer Fun programs: preparing inclusion training for summer staff. Creating modification and individual emergency action plans for kids with disabilities. Wheelchair Tennis Mondays 2-4 See Schedule Flyer POOL LIFTS Purchasing is in process for aquatic equipment for modification requests for pool patrons in Laupahoehoe, Konawaena, and NAS, and for summer beach access programs. BEACH ACCESS Coordinated a small scale inclusive sailing canoe test to assess logistics for future programs Provide Mobi Mats for beach wheelchair access to Keiki Surf event on Sat May 21st at Kohanaiki Beach in Kona. Recommendations for Certificate of Appreciation Chris Cholas community advocate, for decades of effective, professional support and leadership for people with disabilities in our community. Daniel Grant -Johnson,. pioneer advocate with Disability Rights Hawaii, for decades of dedication and commitment to improving public access for people with disabilities in our community.