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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 2000x DRAFT NOT APPROVED , : ; ; : EVANSTON COMMISSION ON. AGING December 02, 2000 MINUTES Present: Charlotte Becker, Bob Nottenburg, Ruth Gockel, Sandra Smith, Kathryn Him, Myrtle Wangerin, Louis Moseley, Irene Ziaya, Ernestine Guillebeaux, Bettie Jean Thomas, and Emma Harmon Absent: Warren Howlett, Shirlee Taraki Guests: Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women Voters) Staff: Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers, and Joan Barott [I]. CALL TO ORDER Chair Moseley called the meeting to order at 9:40 A.M. Chair Moseley welcomed the guest. Chair Moseley asked the guest to introduce herself. Chair Moseley welcomed Eric J. Parker, the newest COA member. Chair Moseley thanked the COA members and guest for bringing the delicious cookies for the "cookie exchange". COA members went home with the exchange cookies as well as, and thank you Sandra Smith, for your cookie remembrance gift to all [II.[ APPROVAL OF MINUTES NOVEMBER 04, 2000 Chair Moseley stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are then approved at the COA meeting. The November 04, 2000 minutes were approved. CoA MIN. 12/02/2000... Page I Inq : , ,1 COMNu it Y zE REPORTS Long -Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker reported that the LTC Committee would be meeting December 13, 2000. Ms. Becker stated that the LTC Committee continues to work on a fact sheet on Patients' Discharge Rights from hospitals, and other health care facilities. The LTC Committee is ready to look at a final draft. The LTC Committee had a site visit November 30, 2000 to Oakwood Terrace. Ms. Becker stated the LTC Committee - as very pleased with the warm atmosphere and condition of this facility. Ruth Goekel commented on the cleanliness of this facility and Myrtle Wangerin commented on the spirit of the residents; the director was very friendly and informative. Sandra Smith also related her good experience when visiting Oakwood Terrace while visiting a friend. Oakwood Terrace is looking forward to getting their Public Aid Certification which means that Evanston will have another resource for persons who are in need of long term care. Ms. Becker extended an invitation to all COA members to attend the site visits. Emma Harmon inquired as to a site visit being held on a Saturday. Ms. Becker commented that they are planning the next site visit to be held on a Saturday and will advise the COA of the date. Eric Parker stated that he is interested in serving on the LTC.Committee. Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn Him stated the Intergenerational Committee did not meet in November, and Chair Moseley and COA members will be advised of the next meeting. Irene Ziaya inquired as to the establishment of other Committees pertaining to COA. Mr. Terry stated there had been different task forces including adult day care and the subsidized taxi cab program. Mr. Terry commented that the COA can chose to establish specific task forces. He stated that the COA may wish to reestablish the Assisted Living Task Force to monitor the enactment of the Assisted Living legislation. Mr. Terry stated he feels that when the 'Taxicab Ordinance is ready for Council approval, a Committee from the COA will need to take a look at this. CoA MIN. I2/02/2000... Page 2 . . He suggested that the COA appoint a Committee hectuuse the City Collector is going to propose some drastic changes in the Subsidized ' aXI Program, and the City Council is going to want to know what the COA thinks about these changes. Ms. Wangerin feels that the LTC Committee should take under its responsibility issues related to home care for the elderly who remain in their own homes. [IV.] CHAIR REPORT Chair Moseley stated he is interested in attending the various committee meetings as well as other Community meetings, and hopes to take an active role in them. [V.] DIRECTOR'S REPORT Levy Center - Mr. Terry stated that Sunday, December 3, 2000 at 2:00 is the ground breaking ceremony for the new Levy Senior Center in James Park, and all COA members are invited to attend. North Shore Retirement Hotel - Mr. Terry reported that last week the Fire Department had been transporting a higher number than usual of residents from the North Shore Retirement Hotel to the hospital primarily for gastro intestinal problems. The Fire Department notified the Evanston Health Department and suggested an investigation be made. A food borne illness at the North Shore Hotel was suspected, although not confirmed_ at this point. The number of residents involved has grown to 30+ and it takes time to investigate. Every resident of the NSH needed to be interviewed, and Mr. Terry thanked Ruth Gockel and Myrtle Wangerin for their assistance in helping with this process. The NSH is very concerned about their reputation and Carla Bush, Head of the Environmental Health Division and Ms. Flowers, assisted with the high anxiety level of the residents that exists at the hotel. Mr. Terry commented that January 01, 2001 the Assisted Living regulations go into effect and that Ms. Flowers, Mr. Terry and Deputy Chief Berkowsky met. CoA MIN. 12/02/2000... Page 3 Deputy Chief Berkowsky is looking towards the Spring .to propose new sprinkler regulations for a number of congregate living, places that do not have them now, which would include the NSH. The conversion of buildings to new sprinkler systems would take approximately 5 years. This would also apply to some dormitories of Northwestern University. Mr. Terry stated that they would be watching to see if the NSH applies for State licensure under the Assisted Living Act. At the present time, Mark Blau, Manager of the NSH, stated the NSH has not decided as yet which direction they will go. , . Flu Shots - Mr. Terry stated the flu crisis is over and the Evanston Health 'Department has received another shipment of vaccine. Mr. Terry stated that the Health Department administered approximately 200 more vaccines than in previous years due to private physicians being unable to get the vaccine. Service Providers' Exchange - Ms. Flowers stated that the Service Providers' Exchange would be held December 15, 2000 and all COA members are invited to attend. These exchanges are held every quarter at the Civic Center, 9:00 A.M. Ms. Flowers stated that the three presenters are Senior Connections, America's Disabled, and Amanda Jones (Police Department). Ms. Flowers stated the March 09, 2001 Service Providers' Exchange will have a speaker from the Illinois Disability Association to discuss the Disability Pool Trusts. This program allows seniors to set aside funds for their own personal care needs should they require nursing home care. Albany Care - Mr. Terry commented that in the past two weeks, two residents (1 woman, 1 man) of Albany Care have drowned, presumably committing suicide. The State of Illinois issued no conclusions related to the drowings. It was unclear how long the residents were missing from the facilities. When the residents were missing is not determined. These facilities give specialized care to residents with mental health diagnosis, and the residents are permitted to walk outside anytime they wish to. Ms. Flowers reported that facility staff held individual and group meetings with residents as well as memorial services. CoA MIN. 12/02/2000... Page 4 The staff did have a condolence meeting with residents. Ms. Flowers, stated that the staff had done some evaluations with the residents about safety within the community for themselves and ways to seek assistance. Circuit Breaker Program Expansion - Ms. Flowers stated that flyers would be forthcoming to all COA members. Ms. Flowers stated that she will be conducting three Circuit Breaker training classes at the Civic Center (daytime hours), and extended an invitation to COA members should they be interested in this training. If evening classes are of interest, arrangements can be made at a later date. Ms. Flowers stated that assistance with Circuit Breaker applications would be available at the Civic Center, Levy, and ESVSS. Aging Well Conference III - Ms. Flowers asked if the COA wished to be a sponsor of the Aging Well Conference III. Ms. Flowers reiterated that the Conference will be held at the King Home again in May, 2001, and she is seeking additional volunteers. The COA members will be placed on the Aging Well Conference III mailing list. Ombudsman Training - Ms. Flowers stated that Ombudsman training will be held at the Civic Center, January 13, 2001 and an announcement will be sent out. Ms. Flowers gave a brief description what is involved with the duties of an Ombudsman volunteer. Governor's Conference - Ms. Flowers stated she is participating in two presentations at the Governor's Conference, one on the Involuntary Discharge Process with Ms. Robyn O'Neill attorney, Stuart Skyes attorney for Sir Management, and Bruce Mims hearing officer from Public Health. The other presentation is on the Ombudsman Summit, and future directions for the Ombudsman Program. Ms. Harmon inquired as to the procedure in nominating "Recognition of Outstanding Volunteers". Ms. Flowers stated that she had nominated Ms. Ruth Gockel for the year 2000 and was open for suggestions for the year 2001. Ms. Harmon praised Ms. B. J. Thomas for her outstanding volunteer work in the Community. CoA MIN. 12/02/2000... Page 5 jVIJ. OLD BUSINESS: None , [VII]. NEW BUSINESS: Mr. Nottenburg stated he was pleased to have served on the COA as a member as well as the Chair and that today was his final day as a member of the COA. He thoroughly enjoyed his participation and working with Mr. Terry and 16Is. Flowers. Mr. Nottenburg complimented all COA members for their hard work and interest in the COA. He wished the new members of the COA well, and ahe best to Chair Moseley. I . i., ': s , Chair Moseley wished Mr. Nottenburg well and again thanked him for his hard work. Jeanne Zimmer commented that she had been at an ECCAC meeting regarding the KKK rally scheduled for Skokie. Ms. Becker commented that Sunday December 3, 2001 Ada Kahn would be presenting at the Wilmette Library. Chair Moseley thanked all the COA members for their comments and participation today and wishes everyone a happy holiday. [VIII]. COMMENTS: The Meeting adjourned at 11:10. Submitted, ,loan M. Barott CoA MIN. 12/02/2000... Page 6 �i 4 DRAFT NOT APPROVED EVANSTON COMMISSION ON AGING November 04, 2000 MINUTES Present: Charlotte Becker, Bob Nottenburg, Ruth Gockel, Sandra Smith, Kathryn Hire, Myrtle Wangerin, Louis Moseley, Shirlee Taraki, and Emma Harmon, Absent: Warren Howlett, Irene Ziaya, Ernestine Guillebeaux and Bettie Jean Thomas Guests: Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women Voters), Amanda Jones (Police Dept.) and Judith Herbert (NSSC), Leslie Wilson (Levy Center) and two Levy Center members Staff: Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers, and .loan Barott IIj. CALL TO ORDER Chair Moseley called the meeting to order at 9:40 A.M. Chair Moseley welcomed the guests. Chair Moseley asked the guests to introduce themselves. Chair Moseley thanked Ms. Wilson (Levy Center) for her hospitality. Chair Moseley asked if the COA members would like to have a "cookie exchange" for the December COA meeting. Upon unanimous approval the "cookie exchange" will be held at the December COA meeting. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OCTOBER 07, 2000 Chair Moseley stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are then approved at the COA meeting. The October 07, 2000 minutes were approved. CoA MIN. 11/04/2000... Page I IIII.] . COMMITTEE REPORTS Long Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker reported that the LTC Committee met October 11, 2000. The LTC Committee discussed the scheduled November site visit to Oakwood Terrace. This facility has undergone renovations in order to be certified for Medicaid beds. Ms. Becker extended an invitation to all COA members to attend. Ms. Becker stated that the LTC committee continues to work on a fact sheet on Patients' Discharge Rights from hospitals, and other health care facilities. Ms. Becker reported she had attended a meeting on domestic violence which was very interesting. She stated that on December 5, 2000 an Elder Abuse Conference will be held at the Glencoe Union Church. Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn Him stated the IntergenerationaI Committee had their Intergenerational Providers' Exchange meeting October 31, 2000 at CJE Adult Day Care with a small number of attendees due to Halloween. Ms. Him stated that it was interesting to see the interaction between the seniors and the pre school children, and how this is coordinated. Ms. Him is hoping to schedule another exchange meeting at CJE Adult Day Care in the future. [IV.] CHAIR REPORT Chair Moseley stated he had also attend the CJE Adult Day Care meeting and tour, and found it to be very interested and inspiring. Chair Moseley hopes to attend any future meetings and take an active role in them. [V4 DIRECTOR'S REPORT Mr. Terry thanked Leslie Wilson for hosting the COA meeting at the Levy Center. CoA MIN. 11/04/2000... Page 2 Levy Center - Mr. Terry advised that there is a Special Meeting of the City Council to be held Monday, November 6, 2000, 6:30 P.M. The only item on the Agenda will be approving the contractor for the new Levy Center. This meeting is being held due to the need to do a dynamic compaction process to stabilize the land prior to construction, and before the ground freezes. Mr. Terry stated the COA has a new member, Eric J. Parker, an attorney who was unable to attend today's meeting. Assisted Living - Mr. Terry referred to an article in the Evanston Review regarding Assisted Living. Mr. Terry reiterated that the regulations for Assisted Living go into effect January 01, 2001. One of the Deputy Directors of the Department of Public Health was quoted as saying that there will essentially be no enforcement of the regulations as there is no funding for any inspectors. Mr. Terry expressed concern about this and noted that he and Ms. Flowers had written a letter to the editor supporting additional funding for enforcement of the regulations. Mr. Terry and Ms. Flowers have been serving on a Taskforce of the NW Municipal Conference looking at what the regulations should be on a municipal level. A report will be presented to an Executive Committee of the Conference and a full report will go to the Conference November 09, 2000. Mr. Terry's taskforce met with representatives of the Hyatt (entry fee $250,000 - 5967,000), and Belmont Village. Ms. Flowers commented that the Pioneer Press article quoted the Deputy Director for the Department on Aging as stating that, due to reduced funding, IDOA would have to depend upon the existing LTC Ombudsman's Program to advocate on behalf of residents in Assisted Living facilities. Ms. Wangerin inquired how facilities will prepare for compliance with the law if the regulations have not been published and there is no money to enforce the law? Mr. Terry stated that probably each company will approach it differently. Mr. Terry commented that it is up to the facilities to determine if they are going to be under Assisted Living licensure. Flu Shots - Mr. Terry stated the Evanston. Health Department has been very busy with administering flu shots. Mr. Terry stated that he is aware that there are some LTC facilities in Evanston that have not received their vaccine or have gotten it very late. CoA MIN.11/04/2000...Page 3 Ms. Wangerin questioned what type of needles were being used: ' Ms. Wangerin explained the difference of using a punch versus needle and questioned if people are made aware of the difference. Mr. Terry commented that the demand for vaccine is so intense that a nurse in the health department received a call offering under the table flu vaccine. Bus Transportation - Mr. Terry commented on the bus service to and from the Le%y Center and various sites throughout the community. The shopping service is underway courtesy of the Recreation Department. The pickup sites are still in the pilot phase. It is Mr. Terry's understanding that this service is very successful. Circuit Breaker Program Expansion - Mr. Terry commented that the first of the year, the COA will be doing an extensive staff Circuit Breaker training at the Civic Center. In the past, ESVSS, Levy, Fleetwood Jourdain, and the COA have all assisted seniors with the completion of Circuit Breaker applications. Ms. Flowers stated that she will be conducting Circuit Breaker training and extended an invitation to COA members should they be interested in this training. Ms. Flowers plans to train additional City personnel to assist with the completion of the Circuit Breaker application. At the September COA meeting, Mr. Terry passed out a memo from the Department of Public Health covering the expansion of the Pharmaceutical Assistance Program of the Circuit Breaker Program, which goes into effect January 01, 2001. Funding Proposals - Mr. Terry stated that the Mental Health Board, United Way, the Community Development Block Grant Committee, and the Human Services Committee are reviewing funding proposals from various agencies in the community. The Human Services Committee on November 6, 2000 will be conducting its agency review and NSSC is seeking local funding again as is, for the first time, Meals At Home. Meals at Home feels it is in need of funding. Mr. Terry stated that he, Ms. Flowers, Mr. Saver (MHB) had a meeting with _ management staff of CJE in an effort to make sure that there is good communication and working relationships between the agency and City staff. CoA MIN. I I104/2000...Page 4 Mr. Terry- stated. that the new Evanston theatres are sehrduled to open November 15, 2000 and encouraged COA nlenits'.rs to attend. Mr. Terry commented on local changes with HIMO benetits. One local HMO. United, is withdrawing from the Medicare market. Ms. Becher commented that this is a serious situation. Ms. Herbert (ESVSS) commented that NSSC has had Jean Celand, who is very versed on the issue of insurance coverage and senior HMO's, come to the various senior buildings and give a presentation. Governor's Conference - Ms. Flowers stated that inforniation regarding the Governor's Conference was in the COA packet_ Ms. Flowers, Ms. Robyn O'Neill, an attorney from Sir Management, and a hearing officer from Public Health are going to be speaking about the Involuntary Discharge Process.. There are many other topics which are being discussed. Ms. Flowers extended an invitation to the COA members if they wish to attend. 1. . Mr. Terry commented that Ms. Wangerin had written a note thanking the Human Services Committee for funding to Conferences, and they were very supportive of Commission members going to conferences, etc. Ms. Wangerin commented on the transportation to conferences. Ms. Flowers attended a joint training with elder abuse supervisors In Springfield, October 17 - 18. Ms. Flowers has been working closely with the staff of Metropolitan Family Services with persons who have moved into nursing homes and who have been receiving elder abuse services. Aging Well Conference III - Ms. Flowers commented that the planning group for the Conference is meeting and extended an invitation to all COA members for their ideas. Alexander Brown and Ms. Herbert from ESVSS have been very involved in the planning. She noted that there are no seniors in the group and that the group would welcome them. The Planning Group meets at the Civic Center once a month. Ms. Flowers stated the Planning Group invites all interested persons to join. Ms. Wangerin suggested she would like to see something on losses, which affect seniors. She gave an example of someone dying at her residence. CoA MIN. 11/04/2000...Page 5 Amanda Jones commented on her experience in dealing with the populations who have lost their peers. Ms. Jones stated that she will participate in the next taxicab training in November, 2000. Ms. Jones commented that she has been approached regarding having 2300 Noyes as a Polling Place. Ms. Becker stated that this has been tried before to no avail as the manager of 2300 Noyes feels there is a security issue. Ms. Jones stated she is working on a brochure regarding Elder Abuse.. [VII. OLD BUSINESS: None [VIII. NEW BUSINESS: Chair Moseley commented if any one has anything of interest to present to the COA, please feel free to do so. Referendum - Ms. Zimmer asked Mr. Terry to explain the Referendum on the ballot as to whether or not the tax rate for Evanston Township should go up, as the Township is experiencing a deficit. Mr. Terry explained this referendum to the COA members, and answered questions about the purposes and funding of the Township. [VIII]. . COMMENTS: The Meeting adjourned at 11:10. Submitted, Joan M. Barott CoA MIN. 11/04/2000... Page 6 X DRAFT NOT APPROVED EVANSTON CO`DIISSION ON AGING_ October 07, 2000 MINUTES Present: Charlotte Becker, Bob Nottenburg, Ruth Gockel, Sandra Smith, Kathryn Him, Myrtle Wangerin, Warren Howlett, Irene Ziaya, Louis Moseley, and Bettie Jean Thomas Absent: Shirlee Taraki, Emma Harmon, and Ernestine Guillebeaux Guests: Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women Voters), Amanda, .Tones (Police Dept.) and Judith Herbert (NSSC) Staff: Nancy Flowers, Joan Barott Rb CALL TO ORDER Chair Nottenburg called the meeting to order at 9:40 A.M. Chair No welcomed the guests. Chair Nottenburg asked the guests to . introduce themselves. 11I.1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES JUNE 03, 2000 Chair Nottenburg stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are then approved at the COA meeting. The July 08, 2000 minutes were approved with minor corrections. 1111.1 OLD BUSINESS Nominating Committee - Chair Nottenburg requested that the Nominating Committee give their report. MIN. 10/07/2000...Page 1 Mr. Moseley, Chair of the COA Nominating Committee; stated that he, Ernestine Guiliebeaux and 1%dyrtle Wangerin met. Mr. Moseley stated that Myrtle Wangerin has agreed to serve as Vice Chair, Emma Harmon, Secretary, will continue in that position and he is willing to serve as Chair. Chair Nottenburg called for the election of officers and asked if there were any nominations from the floor; there being none, Warren Howlett moved that the nominations be closed. Chair Nottenburg stated that the nominations, being approved and seconded, were closed. Chair Nottenburg called for an election of officers to the COA and he requested the secretary to cast one ballot for the Nominating Committee's recommendations. Motion passed. Chair Nottenburg then turned the Chair over to Louis Moseley, the newly elected Chair of the COA. Mr. Moseley stated that he would try and do as good of a job as Mr. Nottenburg had done and Mr. Nottenburg offered any assistance that is needed. [IV.] COMMITTEE REPORTS Long Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker reported that the LTC Committee met September 13, 2000. The LTC Committee discussed the Site Visits and the availability of LTC members to attend Site Visits. The LTC Committee agreed to have six Site Visits per year. Three Site Visits will be held on Thursday afternoons, and three on Saturday afternoons. Proposed Site Visits include Lake Forest Place (Presbyterian Homes affiliate), Oakwood Terrace, Greenwood Care, and the Mather Gardens. The LTC Committee is particularly interested in going to Oakwood Terrace due to some of the problems identified by neighbors, and the facility renovations. LTC Committee members want to visit Greenwood Care to give committee members the opportunity to view a facility that provides care for persons with mental illness. The Site Visits will start either November, 2000 or January, 2001. Ms. Becker extended an invitation to all COA members to attend. Information about the rights of hospital patients was distributed, at the last meeting and will be discussed at the LTC October 12, 2000 meeting. CoA MIN. 10/07/2000... Page 2 V Myrtle Wangerin commented that Discharge Planning and patient's rights is a very important issue. Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn. Him stated the Intergenerational Committee has not been meeting monthly but is, planning IntergenerationaZ Providers Exchanges similar to the Senior Providers Exchange, and Senior Connections on a quarterly basis. Ms. Him stated that the next Intergenerational meeting is October 31, 2000 at the Council for Jewish Elderly, Chicago, Illinois. Ms. Him extended an invitation to all COA members to attend. IV.] CHAIR REPORT Chair Nottenburg thanked the COA members for all of their assistance while he has been the Chair. On the lighter side, Chair Nottenburg is looking forward to the cookie exchange at the December, 2000 meeting. Chair Nottenburg stated he wishes good things for the COA as it goes forward. Mr. Moseley thanked Chair Nottenburg for all of his efforts and hard work with the COA. [VII. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Budget - In Mr. Terry's absence, Ms. Flowers gave a review of the budget pages pertaining to the COA. Ms. Flowers commented that the COA is a small part of the City's budget, and gave an explanation of the pages. The budget pages entitled Progress Report indicated what was done last year. Ms. Flowers commented that the only objective that was not completely met last year, was the development of family councils in each of the LTC facilities. At the present time 113 of the LTC facilities have family councils. Ms. Flowers hopes to meet this goal this year. Ms. Gockel inquired about family councils that are facilitated by the facility. Ms. Flowers commented that independent family councils, facilitated by family members may be more free to address the issues that concern them. Ms. Becker asked about the objective of working with Levy Center staff on the development of social service programming at the center. Ms. Hecker felt that since there are two agencies in the community providing social services to the seniors she feels that there should be a liaison from ESVSS and Metropolitan Family Services. CoA MIN. 10/07/2000... Page 3 x Ms. Flowers commented that ESVSS has a staff meniber who provides sem ices in the center and hopes to expand services beyond what is currently pm,%\ided. What is really critical in this situation is the new Levy Dim-etor and what direction will be taken. Ms. Flowers stated that she would be talking %\ith the two providers. Handyman Program - Chair Nottenburg inquired as to the Handyman funds. Ms. Flowers stated that the Handyman Program is funded through a CDBG grant. Ms. Flowers commented that there has been a steady increase in requests for Handyman assistance. Ms. Flowers stated that the next issue of Highlights will have an article on the Handyman Program showing the Handyman making his calls, etc. Ms. Flowers commented that the Handyman "Zak" does such a good job and how pleased the program recipients are. Bus Transportation - Ms. Herbert asked about the proposed evaluation of the bus transportation and how is this going to be discussed. Ms. Flowers commented that there has been active involvement with the resident councils of the subsidized senior building in the development of the program. Ms. Flowers commented that once the program is in place, they will evaluate it, and see if it meets the needs of the building tenants. Levy Center - Ms. Flowers stated that the Levy Center is still in search of a new Director. Mr. Terry is still involved with the interviewing process. Ms. Flowers stated that the plans for the new Levy Center continue and are before Council and they are hoping for a ground breaking by the end of November. Circuit Breaker Program Expansion - ESVSS, Levy, Fleetwood Jourdain, and the COA have all assisted seniors in the completion of Circuit Breaker applications. In the past, Iris, from Jan Schakowsky office assisted the seniors with this application. State Representative, Julie Hamos does not have the personnel to assist the seniors with this application. Ms. Flowers has discussed with the staff of ESVSS ways to get the word out regarding the changes with Circuit Breaker that include the medications covered and program qualifications. ESVSS will receive a small amount of funds from the Suburban Area Agency on Aging to do the publicity. CoA MIN. 10/07/2000... Page 4 i7l Ms. Flowers plans to train :additional City personnel to assist with the completion of Circuit Breaker application. At the Septenibc•r COO niecting 1%tr. Terry passed out a memo from the Department of Public I lealth covering the expansion of the Phannaceutical Assistance Programof the Circuit Break Program, which goes into etfttit January 01, 2001. Assisted Living -tiffs. Flowers stated that the Assisted Living Advisory Board has had two meetings to review the proposed regulations. Ms. Flowers gave her comments to the Ombudsman on that advisory board. Reportedly, there has not been major disagreement about the regulations, and this may be due to the legislation being eery specific about so many things. Ms. Flowers noted that the staffing ratios in the dementia care areas are higher than in long term care facilities. 1•is. Flowers and Robyn O'Neill, the regional Ombudsman for the rest of Suburban Cook County met with representatives from Life Services Network, which is the trade association for not for profit nursing homes, retirement communities, and assisted living facilities to discuss the reguiations. As of January 1, 2001, facilities providing assisted living services, have to be licensed. Ms. Flowers commented that it is her understanding that the Presbyterian Homes and Mather Gardens plan to be licensed under this act. Taxi Cab Driver Training Program - Amanda Jones reviewed her involvement with the Taxi Cab Driver Training. Ms. Jones stated the training includes a session on crime prevention for the drivers and how they can protect themselves. The EPD discussed what the companies can do with equipment to assist the drivers, and when the police should be summoned. The crime watch component of the training included a discussion of reporting suspicious activity to the EPD. Ways to assist their passenger were also discussed. If drivers pick up the same passenger and observe that the passenger is showing signs of failing health, abuse, or not showing up for a regularly schedule pick up, the driver can report this to the police. Ms. Jones stated that all of the drivers were receptive to the sensitivity training. Ms. Jones stated that a November session will be held, as well as throughout 2001. Ms. Flowers commented that she has heard positive comments recently about the taxi cab drivers and their service. The "Highlights", carried an article on the taxicab training and described the role of a senior who participates in these training programs. CoA MIN. 10/07/2000... Page 5 x Panhandling - Ms. Jones held a workshop at the King Home on aggressive panhandling. Ms. Jones explained the difference between the aggressive and the homeless panhandler. Ms. Jones explained at the Workshop what to do and what not to do and she hopes that this will be gust one of many more workshops to keep the elderly informed on panhandling. The aggressive panhandlers have been arrested and it is up to the judge to determine the punishment. She encouraged the seniors to call the police and to go forward m-ith the complaint. Ms. Jones stated that there is no panhandling ordinance in Evanston, however the Cite is looking into developing an ordinance. Ms. Jones encouraged the residents of the King Home to write to the NW Daily to explain the true nature of much of the panhandling. Sandra Smith commented that the NW students are very generous regarding this and do not realize that these panhandlers are fakers. Chair Nottenburg commented that the Chief of NW Police has had a student/parent meeting advising students and parents on panhandling. Walchirk Apartments - Ms. Becker commented that there have been some evictions at the 2300 Noyes Ct, building. [vull. NEW BUSINESS: Chair Nottenburg passed around brochures/tickets, which Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women Voters) had left with him regarding the Mikado (Gilbert and Sullivan). Chair Nottenburg commented on the importance of voter registration. Flu shots will be given at the City's Health Department, Levy Center, and the Senior Buildings. There is a $10.00 charge and Medicare is accepted. The November 4, 2000 COA meeting will be held at the Levy Center, 1629 Chicago Avenue and parking arrangements will be made. CoA MIN. 10/07/2000...Page 6 [Vile]. COMMENTS: The Meeting adjourned at 10:50 Submitted, Joan M. Barott CoA MIN. 10/07/2000... Page 7 x- : DRAFT NOT APPROVED EVANSTON COMMISSION ON AGING September 09, 2000 MINUTES Present: Charlotte Becker, Bob Nottenburg, Ruth Gockel, Sandra Smith, Kathryn Him, Myrtle Wangerin, Warren Howlett, Irene Ziaya, Emma Harmon, Louis Moseley, and Bettie Jean Thomas Absent: Shirlee Taraki, Ernestine Guillebeaux Guests: Alexander Brown and Judith Herbert (NSSC) Staff: Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers, Joan Barott ]I]. CALL TO ORDER Chair Nottenburg called the meeting to order at 9:40 A.M. Chair Nottenburg welcomed the guests. Chair Nottenburg asked the guests to introduce themselves. Chair Nottenburg welcomed the newest COA member, Sandra Smith. Chair Nottenburg explained to Ms. Smith the procedure to join a committee, i.e., Intergenerational, Long Term Care. Chair Nottenburg also welcomed Ruth Gockel's return. Ill]. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DUNE 03, 2000 Chair Nottenburg stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are then approved at the COA meeting. The July 08, 2000 minutes were approved with minor corrections. CoA MIN. 09/09/2000... Page 1 *x [III]. - COMMITTEE REPORTS Long Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker reported the LTC Committee met July 12, 2000. The LTC Committee discussed the I-lospital Discharge Planning Project and the availability of LTC members to attend Site Visit& Ms. Becker commented that the LTC members are looking &-irward to attending the Pioneer Workshop sponsored by the LTC Ombudsmen Proor.3m on September 15, 2000. Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn Him stated the Intergenerational Committee did not meet this summer, but did have a successful Providers Exchange on May 23, 2000. Kitty Okano from Chute School gave an excellent presentation of the work they do with children and seniors at the North Shore Retirement Hotel. Ms. Him commented that the Committee is working with the Council for Jewish Elderly Adult Day Program to set a date for the next Providers' Exchange (most likely October, 2000). Ms. Him stated that the Intergenerational Committee would not meet on a regular basis but concentrate on Providers' Exchanges. Ms. Him commented that the Intergenerational Committee is always looking for new members. Ms. Smith stated that she is interested in joining the Intergenerational Committee. Nominating Committee - Mr. Moseley, Chair of the Nominating Committee, stated that he, Ernestine Guillebeaux and Myrtle Wangerin met and were having some difficulty in getting COA members to fill these positions. Emma Harmon, Secretary, will continue in that position. Mr. Moseley stated that Ruth Gockel has stated that she is unable to continue in the position of Vice Chair. Ms. Wangerin agreed to serve as Vice Chair. Chair Nottenburg commented that he would continue to act as Chair through October/November, 2000. Mr. Moseley stated that if a new Chair were not successfully elected he would be willing to serve as Chair. Chair Nottenburg commented that Mr. Terry and Ms. Flowers were great to work with and that this makes the position of Chair easy. CoA MIN. 09/09/2000... Page 2 [III.] CHAIR REPORT Chair Nottenburg expressed his thanks to Mr. Terry and Ms. Flowers, for all'of the assistance that they have provided him during his tenure as Chair of the COA, as well as to COA members. Chair Nottenburg commented that one of the biggest issues before the COA has been "Assisted Living". He stated that, if the City of Evanston, through the COA, wants to develop local regulation, the legislation does nest prohibit this. Levy Center - Ms. Wangerin commented that membership in the Levy Center entitles the member to receive free admission to the Evanston Athletic Club and YMCA. She commented that letter was sent from the YMCA to Levy members to clarify membership information. [IVI. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Mr. Terry thanked Chair Nottenburg for his kind words. Levy Center - Mr. Tent' stated that the plans for the new Levy Center continue, and the City's Building Department is reviewing the plans. ' .. Mr. Terry stated that the search continues for a Director to the Levy Center. Bus Transportation - Mr. Terry reported there would be within two - three weeks a Transportation Program using the Levy bus to transport residents of the three Senior Housing Buildings to local grocery stores. Transportation to and from the Levy Center will also be provided. Mr. Gaynor informed Mr. Terry that this would start in mid September. Mr. Terry commented that further information would be provided to the COA as plans develop. Jacob Blake Manor - Mr. Terry commented that the City Council Agenda for September 11, 2000, will cover the Jacob Blake Manor request for a one year extension of their special use to build this building. This was first approved in 1996 - 1997. CoA MIN. 09/09/2000... Page 3 X Mr. Terry does not know if this project is any closer to being built as there are a number of issues to be resolved. Oakwood Terrace Community Meeting - Mr. Terry stated that on September 12, 2000 a Community Meeting is scheduled for Oakwood Terrace Nursing Home. He noted that the neighbors are concerned about the possible change of population at Oakwood Terrace. Mr. Terry commented that many problems which do not fit the criteria of the Ombudsman are very time consuming for Ms. Flowers. Mr. Term gave an example of a gentleman who lives on Ridge and had a sign in his «-indow for approximately four or five years, stating that "senior citizen needs help"! This gentleman has had a number of issues and many agencies have tried to assist him without any success. Mr. Terry stated at the present time this gentleman is hospitalized and whether he will return to his home is questionable. Senior Service Providers Exchange - Mr. Terry commented that the Senior Service Providers Exchange will meet September 22, 2000. The speakers are: Amanda Jones, Evanston Police Department, Jacqueline Grossman, Interfaith Housing, and an American Cancer Society Representative. Assisted Living - Mr. Terry stated COA continues to work on Assisted Living issues. Mr. Terry stated that he serves on a Committee of the NW Municipal Conference in which cities are looking at Municipal Licensing and whether this is appropriate. Mr. Terry and Ms. Flowers did meet with the Village of Wilmette and Hoffman Estates in July and developed an issue paper on Municipal Licensing for a larger Committee of the Municipal Conference to consider. Highlights - Mr. Terry commented on the article in "Highlights", which was written about the Taxi Cab Driver Training Program. The results of this training appears to be that taxi cab drivers are treating older adults with more courtesy, and providing them with more assistance. CoA MIN. 09/09/2000... Page 4 x Pharmaceutical Medical Help - Mr. Terry passed out a memo from the Department of Public Health covering the expansion of the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Circuit Breaker, which goes into effect January 01, 2001_ Ombudsman Report - Ms. Flowers stated she was appointed to the Assisted Living and Shared Housing Quality of Life Advisory Board; this board will be working with the Illinois Department on Aging on the implementation of the new legislation. Ms. Flowers is reviewing the proposed regulations, and will report to the COA. Ms. Flowers commented that the Evanston Police Department is working with a couple of the Iocal facilities regarding thefts that have occurred at several retirement communities. Several residents at the Swedish Retirement Association, and the Presbyterian Homes, reported thefts of checkbooks and credit cards. An individual has been apprehended and she is cooperating with the Police. A similar situation happened at Wagner Health Center and Mather Gardens 1 1 /2 years ago, and it was a ring of care providers that worked for a particular staff ng agency. Ms. Flowers sent a letter to all the retirement facilities in Evanston alerting them to this situation. Ms. Flowers has also alerted Amanda Jones, Police Department, of an individual representing herself as a customer service representative from a credit card company asking for expiration date and credit card numbers. Ms. Flowers reported that she participated in a Dementia Special Care Summit, sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association. The IDPH has been requested to develop some standards for dementia care units. At the present time there are no specific regulations for dementia care units in nursing homes. Ms. Flowers stated this group is made up of a variety of persons and hopefully can come up with some workable standards. Ms. Flowers commented that on August 25, 2000, a regional meeting sponsored by Long Term Care Ombudsman Programs of the COA and Legal Assistance Foundation was held with local providers to discuss issues that are affecting care in long-term care facilities. One of the biggest issues is staffing, recruitment and retention of good CNAs. CoA MIN. 09/09/2000... Page 5 • X Ms. Flowers commented that Ms. Wangerin who was in attendance had good comments regarding what seniors are concerned about in care facilities. This group has agreed to continue to meet together. Pioneer Workshop - Ms. Flowers commented that six COA and LTC members are attending a workshop September 15, 2000. The Pioneer movement focuses on the care that is provided in nursing facilities and ways to make it more homelike and responsive to the needs of residents. All local facilities were sent information about this program. Ombudsman Training - Ms. Flowers will be doing some Ombudsman training within the next few months with new volunteers. Elder Rights Conference August 2 - 31,2000 -Nis. Flowers stated the Elder Rights Conference was held in Chicago. The topics included presentations about hoarding behavior, elder abuse, and long term care. Ms. Wangerin commented that Bill Moyers was presenting a series on "End of Life Issues" including dying and Hospice care at home, on Channel 11. Ms. Wangerin commented on an article covering a court case about the rights of nursing home residents to Hospice services in nursing homes. This particular case represented a resident who had not been allowed access to Hospice service by LTC facility staff. Ms. Wangerin inquired as to anyone hearing about this type of situation. Ms. Flowers commented that most Evanston facilities work with local Hospices and if individuals wish Hospice to come in and provide additional support they will do this. Most facilities are in favor of this as a palliative nurse and additional CNAs can provide direct care to the resident at no cost to the facility or the resident, and volunteers can come in and sit with the resident. The bereaved family members receive follow up by the Hospice for a year. She noted that there is one facility in Evanston, which has been reluctant to allow outside Hospice providers and has established their own Hospice team. Mr. Terry commented that a meeting was being held September 12, 2000 to discuss emergency psychiatric services provided in Evanston. CoA MIN. 09109/2000... Page 6 X. He noted that COA staff respond to calls regarding older adults living alone in their own homes, who have little or no family support and have declined to the point that they are a concern in the neighborhood Some may refuse any and all intervention. If this occurs within an apartment or condo, then the City can work with the landlord or condo association, but when it is on a residential street and in a person's own home, the resident can pretty much do whateve7 she/he wish to do legally. Ms. Becker raised the question of seniors defaulting on payment of real estate taxes and homes being sold for taxes. Chair Nottenburg asked if the postal service still has the policy of letter carriers bringing residents at risk to the attention of social service providers. Mr. Terry commented that there have been various carrier watch and carrier alert programs through the years, however, to his knowledge Evanston does not currently have a functionary program. Mr. Tent' stated that this past month the Council for Jewish Elderly has applied for some grant money to try and do some training for bank tellers, grocery store clerks who see a noticeable decline in a regular customer. In our society today however, there aren't usually regular bank tellers or regular grocery store clerks, and this applies to letter carriers also. Mr. Terry stated that one of the nice things about Evanston is the neighbors generally will call if they note uncollected mail or newspapers. Walchirk Apartments - Ms. Becker inquired if Mr. Hardy had responded to the COA inquiries. Mr. Terry reported that he had not. Ms. Becker stated that she had seen an advertisement in the Evanston Review for applications to 2300 Noyes building and the 1900 Sherman building. IVII]. NEW BUSINESS: Ms. Becker stated that the State Municipal Circuit Court is having another Conference On Family Violence and they would like the COA to have an information booth covering what services the COA provides pertaining to violence and abuse. Ms. Becker had attended a prior meeting and the Circuit Court paid for all the expenses, and gave each participant a binder containing legal resources on abuse and neglect. CoA MIN. 09/09/2000... Page 7 Chair Nottenburg commented that he had received a questionnaire form from the League of Women Voters dealing with the issue of the size of the City Council. There is a movement to increase the City Council from 9 to 18. Chair Nottenburg will respond to the survey in light of what the COA deals with. Ms. Wangerin also received this survey and wondered why the increase in Aldermen. Chair Nottenburg gave an explanation. Chair Nottenburg has been appointed to the Board of Higher Education dealing with education for senior citizens. (VIIIJ. OLD BUSINESS: Ms. Him commented on the Housing Committee. B. J. Thomas stated that the COA had people working on housing issues and therefore did not need a Housing Committee. Ms. Herbert, former Chair of COA, commented that in prior years there were ongoing issues in both senior housing as well as for seniors living throughout the community. She identified the availability of affordable housing, seniors leaving Evanston due to property taxes, and the availability of elevator accessible buildings, as issues that were addressed by the Housing Committee in the past. Mr. Terry stated that in years past the COA had a full time Executive Director to staff the committees. He noted each committee would have a monthly schedule and the full time staff person was able to handle those responsibilities. The Housing Committee used to meet at 8:30 A.M. on Saturdays immediately prior to the COA meetings. Mr. Terry stated that the _ more Committees the COA has, staff resources are stretched in terms of minutes, agendas, packets, etc. Ms. Herbert commented that the Handyman Program was formed out of the Housing Committee. Mr. Terry commented that the Handyman Program is booming. Ms. Flowers commented that an article about the Handyman Program will be in the next issue of Highlights. CoA MIN. 09/09/2000... Page 8 RXI.- COMMENTS: The Meeting adjourned at 10:50 Submitted, Joan M. Barott CoA MIN. 09/09/2000... Page 9 DRAFT NOT APPROVED EVANSTON COMMISSION ON AGING July 8, 2000 MINUTES Present: Bob Nottenbum (Chair), Charlotte Becker, Ernestine Guillebeaux, Emma Harmon, Kathryn Him, Warren Howlett, Louis Moseley. Shirlee Tarak.i, Myrtle Wangerin, Irene Ziaya Guests: Judith Herbert (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services), Amanda Jones (Evanston Police Department) Staff: Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers [I]. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Chair Nottenburg at 9:40 a.m. [II]. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NNE 39 2000 The minutes were approved with no corrections. [III]. COMMITTEE REPORTS Long Term Care Committee Ms. Becker reported that at the May meeting the committee had voted to recommend that the draft LTC Ordinance be adopted for all Evanston long-term care facilities. Ms. Becker noted that the committee would now focus on hospital discharge issues. This issue was identified as a concern after several committee members received complaints about problematic hospital discharges that included seniors who were discharged without appropriate services or to settings that did not provide sufficient support. Intergenerational Committee Ms. Him stated that the committee held an Intergenerational Providers' Exchange on May 23, 2000 at the North Shore Hotel. The meeting featured an intergenerational program co -sponsored by Chute Middle School and the North Shore Hotel. Ms. Him reported that program attendees had expressed interest in meeting on a periodic basis. 9A She stated that the committee plans to hold these programs three times per year. The next providers' exchange will be held in Septcmbcr 2000. [IV1. WALCHIRK :APARTMENTS: Ms. Becker reported that she and Ms. Flowers continue to attend the building's monthly tenant council meetings. She noted that building residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the transportation that has been arranged for weekly shopping trips. The transportation is from the Council for Jewish Elderly. Ms. Becher stated that tenants reported that the bus was not large enough and was too costly. Building tenants state that the bus holds 14 people and that they are required to pay an annual membership fee of $20 to CJE in addition to the S2lride. Mr. Terry reported that this transportation has been funded by a special grant. He noted that some seniors are reluctant to complete the intake forms required to enroll in CJE's program. Ms. Herbert stated that she is aware that CJE is continuing to work on making the program more accessible to riders. She also noted that riders are required to pay an annual membership fee to CJE. Chair Nottenburg recommended that staff follow-up on transportation options for subsidized housing residents. E, Ms. Harmon stated that she hopes that the shopping options can be expanded beyond the one grocery store that CJE's transportation currently takes tenants to. Ms. Becker said that this was also a concern of building tenants. Ms. Becker reported that the tenants of Walchirk Apartments appreciate the responsiveness of the Evanston Police Department to tenant concems. Ms. Jones stated that the EPD has received few reports from tenants but that an officer makes regular visits to the building. She noted that Sioux Tournoy receives reports regarding the types of calls received from the building. [V[. C"R REPORT: Mr. Nottenburg stated that a committee must be appointed to nominate a new slate of officers (Chair, Vice -Chair and Secretary). Chair Nottenburg recommended that the nominating committee consist of Mr. Moseley, Ms: Guillebeaux, and Ms. Wangerin, with Mr. Moseley as Chair. Chair X , Nottenburg requested that the committee report its progress to him by August 15, 2000 and its recommendations to the Commission at the September 9, 2000 meeting. Chair Nottenburg noted that there would be no August meeting. Chair Nottenburg recommended that the committee contact Mr. Terry or Ms. Flowers if they wished to meet at the Civic Center. In response to a question from INN. Taraki, Chair Nottenburg stated that a member of the nominating committee could be nominated for an office. Ms. Taraki asked if Commission members could suggest nominations. Chair Nottenburg stated that nominations should be given to the committee. At the request of Chair Nottenburg, Ms. Flowers and Ms. Wangerin reported that Ruth Gockel, COA member, had returned home from the Mather Pavilion at Wagner and was doing well. Levy Center Sub -Committee Chair Nottenburg and Mr. Terry reported that the next Levy Center Sub -Committee would be held on July 13, 2000. Chair Nottenburg reported that the new facility will be located on the southeast corner of lames Park and will have parking for 135 cars. The facility will be 25,000 square feet in size, and will be rectangular in shape with an open atrium at the center of the facility. Chair Nottenburg noted that the facility would contain a large performance room and a number of smaller rooms that will include areas for food preparation and computers. He noted that Mr. Levy has purchased a van, which is to be used to transport center participants. Mr. Terry reported that proposed building materials would be discussed at the next sub -committee meeting. Chair Nottenburg stated that Mr. Levy had requested that a model of the facility be built, to encourage support for the new center site. He noted that the projected ground breaking for the new facility was September 2000. Ms. Becker questioned whether there would be a computer room at the new Levy Center. Mr. Terry and Chair Nottenburg stated that there would be. Both noted that there has been some discussion about whether the wall between the Center's library and the computer room should be a moveable one to allow for more flexible use of these two spaces. Ms. Jones stated that she had suggested, at the last Levy Center Advisory Council, that the center work with the local garden council to receive assistance with landscaping. She stated that she had encouraged facility staff and members to contact Linda Lutz and to work with volunteers on landscaping efforts. Ms. Herbert questioned why the center had been relocated away from the Recycling Center. Chair Nottenburg and Mr. Terry stated that the site for the center -was relocated due to opposition from community gardeners. Chair Nottenburg stated that the design for the new site is an improved one that will better meet the needs of center participants. Ms. Herbert questioned if the City owns the land that the center -rill be located on. Mr. Terry stated that the City owned part of the land and part of the land may be owned by District 65. He noted that Dawes School, the school adjacent to the new center, appears to be partially located on land owned by the City. Mr. Term reported that a delegation from the Levy Center attended the last City Council meeting. Mr. Terry noted that the center's fundraising campaign has raised S34,000 to date. He reported that Mr. Levy has promised to match any funds raised in this campaign. In response to a question from Ms. Becker, Mr. Terry stated that Mr. Levy has a strong family ethic of philanthropy. He noted that the Levy family foundation supports Levy Senior Centers in Chicago, Evanston and the western suburbs. Ms. Jones stated that the Levy Foundation provided the fundirig for her position with the EPD and that this funding would continue until 2001. Ms. Wangerin commented on the option of membership in the Evanston Athletic Club or the Evanston YMCA for members of the Levy Center. Ms. Wangerin noted that for the cost of the Levy Center membership, seniors are - able to join one of the two facilities. She stated that the YMCA informed her that if she became a member as part of her Levy Center membership, she would need to pay a YMCA membership fee after the new center opened if she maintained her membership. She reported that EAC would not require seniors to pay a membership fee. Ms. Him questioned whether seniors had access to the facility pool as a part of the membership. Ms. Wangerin noted _— that they did. Ms. Becker asked whether seniors were restricted in the hours that they could use the facility. In response to this question and one from Ms. Herbert, Ms. Wangerin stated that the facility did not treat seniors who were members differently or restrict use of the facility based on the age of the member or the type of membership. Mr. Terry reported that both facilities are billing the City every time a Levy Center member visits. He noted that the Levy Center has seen a growth in membership and that center c participants have chosen membership tit EAC over the YMCA by a wide margin. (VI]. DIRECTOR'S REPORT: Mr. Terry announced that Doug Gaynor was close to announcing a new Director of the Levy Center. Mr. Tern reported that the mayor had appointed a new member to the COA, Sandra Smith. Fie noted that Ms. Smith has a strong interest and background in intergencrational programs. Mr. Terry stated that he had met with Doug Gaynor to discuss the use of the Levy Center bus to transport seniors who live in the three subsidized buildings to local grocery stores. Alderman Newman has also been in contact with Mr. Gaynor about this issue. He noted that there would be some type of program using the bus but that the details would need to be:: worked out once the new senior center director arrives. Mr. Terry reported that staff had explored the cost of chartering a bus to take building residents shopping on a weekly basis. Due to the costs, the use of the Levy Center bus remains the best option for this service. Mr. Terry reported that he has not heard from Mr. Hardy of the Cook County Housing Authority. Mr. Terry spoke with Sioux Tournoy about purchasing security cameras for Walchirk Apartments. Ms. Tournoy reported that funds were available from the Housing Authority for security equipment but that she had not determined what equipment was needed or the best source for this type of equipment. Mr. Terry provided Ms. Tournoy with sources for several types of security cameras. Mr. Terry and Shelly Wagner, former member of the COA, spoke to Snapshot Evanston about services available to older Evanston residents. He noted that Snapshot Evanston is a condensed version of Leadership Evanston. Mr. Terry discussed his participation in a task force convened by the Northwest Municipal Conference on the potential impact of Assisted Living facilities on local municipalities. This task force is being chaired by the City Manager of Buffalo Grove and ultimately plans to develop a position paper. Mr. Terry will host a meeting at which Ms. Flowers will be in attendance.` ' Both fir. Terry and Ms. Flowers noted that the Illinois Department of Public 5 VA Health and the Illinois Department on Aging did not receive the funding requested to enact the Assisted Living legislation - Mr. Terry reported that a follow-up neighborhood meeting was hold at Oakwood Terrace in June. No changes in the type of residents accepted by the facility have occurred_ Mr. Terry noted that no flyers were sent out by the facility to remind the neighborhood of the meeting. He reported that Alderman Bernstein was concerned about this lack of notification. Mr. Terry reported that the Presbyterian Homes received approval for major renovations to Geneva Place. Ms. Flowers stated that the facility plans to expand the assisted living program from 43 apartments to 110 apartments. [VIIl. OMBUDSMAN REPORT: Ms. Flowers reported that the COA Long -Term Care Ombudsman Program received confirmation that the Suburban Area Agency on Aging would continue to fund the program for the next three years. The grant for FY 2001 will be $17, 862. Ms. Flowers also reported that the LTCOP received a grant to host a regional meeting to discuss long-term care issues. She will co -host this meeting with Robyn O'Neill, the Regional Ombudsman for the rest of Suburban Cook County. The meeting will occur in Evanston and will include long-term care providers, representatives of the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Evanston Health Department, legislators, social services agencies, the COA and other persons interested in long-term care. Ms. Flowers reported that taxi driver training now includes three hours of training on the needs of older riders. A taxicab program user and two nurses from the Presbyterian Home conduct the training. This training will occur every two months and will be required for new drivers. Ms. Flowers stated that her name has been submitted to the Governor by the Illinois Association of Long -Term Care Ombudsmen and by the Department on Aging for membership on the Assisted Living Advisory Board. [VIIIj. OLD BUSINESS: None [IXj. NEW BUSINESS: None 1X1. COMMENTS: Ms. Jones thanked Ms. Taraki and Wangerin for their letters of support. Ms - Jones distributed a list of "thank you" letters received by the Evanston Police Department. Ms. Jones noted that she would like to attend a future taxicab driver training session. She reported that she would be attending a two-day TRIAD conference for elderly service officers. The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 a.m. The next meeting will be held on September 9, 2000. Submitted, Nancy Flowers DRAFT NOT APPROVED EVANSTON COMMISSION ON AGING June 03, 2000 MINUTES Present: Charlotte Becker, Bob Nottenburg. Shirlee Tan tki, Kathryn Him, Ernestine Guillebeaux, Myrtle Wangerin, Warren Howlett, Emma Harmon, Louis Moseley, and Bettie Irzn Thomas Absent: Ruth Gockel, and Irene Ziaya Guests: Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women:Voters) and Judith Herbert (NSSC) Staff: Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers, and Joan Barott Ill. CALL TO ORDER Chair Nottenburg called the meeting to order at 9:40 A.M. Chair Nottenburg welcomed the guests. Chair Nottenburg asked the guests to introduce themselves. fill. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MAY 06, 2000 Chair Nottenburg stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are then approved at the. COA meeting: The May 06, 2000 minutes were approved. COMMITTEE REPORTS Long Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker extended an invitation to any COA member interested in serving on the LTC Committee. Ms. Becker commented that Judith Herbert (former Chair of the COA) had joined the LTC Committee. CoA MIN. 06/03/2000... Page 1 �t Chair Nottenburg commented that the LTC Committee had distributed a CWy of the Committee's recommendations regarding the LTC Ordinance to the COA this morning. The Committee's recommendations' ► ere read aloud- The COA's recommendation to the Human Senices Commits_-e is that this LTC Ordinance be adopted as presented. Mr. `ferry commentc-d that the Human Services Committee wanted to hear from the COA and the Mental Heshh Board as to the acceptance of this Ordinance. Charlotte Bc-vker made a motion that the LTC Ordinance be adopted as submitted for all long terns facilities in Evanston. This motion was made and seconded that the draft of the LTC Ordinance should be adopted as submitted for all LTC facilities in Evanston. Chair Nottenburg commented, by this motion, that the COA will now be on record to the City Council as being in favor of the LTC Ordinance as presented. Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn Him stated she attended the Intergenerational Program Idea Exchange Tuesday, May 23, 2000 at the North Shore Retirement Hotel. All of the Intergenerational Programs in Evanston had been invited to this event. Ms. Kitty Okano (Chute School), who coordinates an Intergenerational Program at the North Shore Hotel, presented at this Providers' Exchange. There were approximately 16 attendees. Shirlee Taraki believes that this is a major activity of the Intergenerational Committee: of bring people together, and the sharing of ideas. Chair Nottenburg commented that perhaps the Intergenerational Committee should meet at the Levy Center periodically. Chair Nottenburg suggested that the COA hold its September 08, 2000 meeting at the Levy Center. 1111.1 CHAIR REPORT Nominating Committee - Chair Nottenburg stated that in July he has to appoint a Nominating Committee for Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary. Chair Nottenburg stated if anyone who is not an officer now would like to serve on this Committee, to let him know and he will consider it for the Nominating Committee in July. Chair Nottenburg stated if anyone knows of someone who might be interested in serving on the COA please have them contact the Mayor's office. CoA MIN. 06/03/2000... Page 2 x� Ruth Gockel - Chair Nottenburg commented that Ruth Gockel is in recovery and progressing. [IV]. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Ombudsman Report - Mr. Terry called attention to the Ombudsman Report titled "Output Measures" which includes a rating system used by the State for all the Ombudsman Programs. The Evanston COA Ombudsman Program had 56 points out of 56, tar and above the number one total in the State of Illinois, and eight points higher than the next Ombudsman Program. Ms. Flowers commented that the State Legislature decided not to give the Department on Aging the funding at all to implement their piece of the Assisted Living Program. Ms. Flowers commented that Department of Public Health received $200,000 out of the $500,000 that they requested. The Department of Public Health is in the process of writing the rules for Assisted Living facilities. Lists of potential Advisory Board members have been submitted to the Governor for the Department On Aging Advisory Boards, and Department of Public Health Advisory Boards. Ms. Flowers has been nominated to be on the Advisory Boards to the Department On Aging and Public Health. Robyn O'Neill (Legal Assistance Foundation) has also been nominated. Aging Well Conference May I9, 2000 - Ms. Flowers stated the Aging Well Conference had an attendance of 120 registrants, with S - 10 walk-ins. The attendees were a more diverse group than at the previous year's conference. Ms. Flowers stated the evaluations received were very positive. The Planning Committee will be meeting on .tune 13, 2000 to review the comments and to do some planning for Aging Well Conference U. The King Home was a wonderful host again this year. Ms. Flowers noted that a conference attendee approached the Mayor with reference to becoming a COA member. CoA MIN. 06/03/2000...Page 3 T� Taxi Cab Program - Ms. Flowers stated that the format for training of the taxi cab drivers is being changed and the first training involved a taxi cab program user and two staff from the Presbyterian Home who discussed the needs of older riders. Eight taxicab drivers were in attendance from various taxi cab programs, 2 dispatchers, and 2 owners i.e., Best Cab and North Shore. They were very receptive to both the older rider and to the trainers from the Presbyterian Homes. The taxi cab owners encouraged older riders, who require an escort from their home to their cab, due to blindness, or other needs, to let the dispatcher know this. Also, if the older rider needs assistance with groceries they should advise the dispatcher of this too. This training will be taking place every other month at the Civic Center and the two nurses from the Presbyterian Homes will continue to do the training and will focus on physical changes of aging. Ms. Flowers is looking for other riders who might be interested in participating in this training. Walchirk Apartments Follow Up - Mr. Terry commented that he has been attempting to reach Mr. Hardy and has left word several times to no avail. Mr. Terry stated he had written to Mr. Hardy as well as faxed a letter to him and to date there has been no reply. Alderman Newman stated that he would try and get a response from Mr. Hardy. Mr. Terry commented that Alderman Newman was supportive of the idea of the City funding security cameras at the building, and in talking to Ms. Tumoy, the issue is not money as there is more than enough money in the Housing Authority Account to pay for new cameras. The question is the right kind of security camera. Mr. Tern has provided Ms. Turnoy with a list of two or three people «•ho she could consult with and she will take this list to Mr. Hardy and try to get some funding. Bus Transportation - Mr. Terry referred to Alderman Newman's suggestion that the Levy Center's new bus could be used for shopping transportation. Mr. Terry met with Doug Gaynor, Director Parks, Recreation, and Forestry, and noted there are some concerns about using the bus for this purpose. The Council for Jewish Elderly has started shopping transportation for Noyes and Perlman. The first trip was to Aldi's which is not in Evanston. CoA MIN. 06/03/2000...Page 4 Y Mr. Terry has been in contact with the person responsible for this service and if it is determined that the CJE service is limited, and will not expand to include Evanston stores and Primm Toi-ver, then the City of Evanston is prepared to charter some vans in a pilot program. Ms. Flowers will be in contact with Robinson Bus Service to obtain information about transportation options and costs. Ms. Becker commented that she had seen Ja}''s Medicar bringing persons to Dominicks. Ms. Thomas commented that 99% of the riders are disabled. Meals At Home Program - Mr. Terry spoke with the Director of the Meals at Home Program which is the primary private agency that provides home delivered meals in Evanston. Meals at Home has gotten, for the past 31 years, its meals from St. Francis Hospital. St. Francis Hospital stated they were ceasing this service due to cost. Alderman Rainey contacted the CEO of St. Francis Hospital, and a situation will be worked out so that this service can continue, possibly with a higher rate. Mr. Terry commented that decisions about service in Evanston are not always being made in Evanston. St. Francis Hospital is part of Resurrection Health Care, and management is looking at programs that lose money. Mr. Terry stated that if hospitals cannot provide, with their big kitchens, the meals for home delivered programs, programs are limited in terms of local resources. The program will continue. Ms. Him inquired who gets meals from FIeetwood Jourdain and Ms. Herbert (NSSC) explained the Fleetwood Jourdain Program is usually for persons who need meals on a long term basis. Ms. Thomas commented that the Meals at Home Program provides clients with therapeutic diets, whereas Fleetwood Jourdain has standard meals. Handyman Program - Mr. Terry commented that the Handyman Program is doing very well and is in particular due to the handyman himself. Mr. Terry commented that all of the clients praise him and want him back. Mr. Terry reviewed the Handyman Report and stated that in 1999 there was a dramatic increase in use, and it appears that this trend is continuing in 2000. CoA MIN. 06/03/2000...Page 5 W.4 Community Service Department - Mr. Terry commented that the Community Service Department at Evanston Township High School has shown an interest in the Handyman Program in terms of leaf raking, and snow shoveling. Lawn mowing is a problem but some of the high schoolers have acted on their own to see if they can help out with the landscaping jobs that need to be done for handyman clients. Providers Exchange Meeting - Mr. Terry reported that the Providers Exchange Meeting will be Friday June 9, 2000 and Nancy Anderson (SASI), and the Mather Institute on Aging will be the guest speakers. Another speaker will be from a company, Cardio Medics, which has developed a device attached to a person's TV and a type of chair that monitors and records, all of the user's vital signs. wis. Flowers commented that Tele Medicine in the rural areas is a growing way of practicing medicine. C. Louise Brown, Director Health Department - Ms. Terry commented that with Mrs. Brown retiring the end of June, 2000, he will assume the responsibilities of Public Health. Along with this, there is a need to reorganize the department and he and his secretary will be moving to the Health Department area of the Civic Center. A clear organization chart should be in place by Labor Day. Human Services Committee - Mr. Terry stated that the Human Services Committee has had a number ofineetings within the last few weeks discussing the serious financial problems of the Evanston Township. Evanston Township is due to run out of money within the next few months. Mr. Terry stated that this fall there is a possibility of a referendum on the ballot regarding a tax increase for Evanston Township. Levy Center Interim Opening - Mr. Terry commented that final construction drawings have not been submitted to the City and that is why there has not been a Levy Sub Committee meeting. Mr. Terry stated the interim location is going along well and he has heard that there is a petition drive to stay in the interim center. CoA MIN. 06/03/2000... Page 6 r Bettie Jean Thomas commented that everyone;is pleased with the interim center but that, there is no water fountain and the air conditioning system is still not working properly. Ms. Wangerin inquired if the position of Levy Center Director had been filled. Mr. Terry stated that they are still in the process of interviewing candidates for the position. Ms. Wangerin asked why there was both a City and Township government. Mr. Terry explained in the State of Illinois, the Township government responsibilities provide general assistance and in some parts of the State they do highways and roads. Ms. Wangerin asked where assistance information could be obtained for an older person, as she will be conducting a presentation to the clergy in the area. Ms. Flowers commented that ESVSS provides information and referral as well as the Levy Center and the COA staff. Chair Nottenburg commented that the COA September, 2000 meeting would probably be held at the Le%y Center Interim location, 1629 Chicago Avenue. [VIII. NEW BUSINESS: None. [VIII[. OLD BUSINESS: None. CoA MIN. 06/03/2000...Page 7 0 I [IN]. 'CO111MENTSi Emma Harmon commented that she felt Alderman Newmian's' suggestion to see the Levy Center bus used to pick up seniors at the three HUD facilities for ,,,-',grocery shopping, and other outings as well as for use by the Levy Center was a very good suggestion. The Meeting adjourned at 10:50 .1 Submitted, Joan A Barott CoA MIN. 06/03/2000...Page 8 X DRAFT NOT APPROVED EVANSTON COMMISSION ON AGING llav 06, 2000 MINUTES Present: . Charlotte Becker, Bob Nottenburg, Shirlee Taraki, Kathryn Him, Ernestine Guillebeaux, Myrtle Wangerin, and Bettie Jean Thomas Absent: Warren Howlett, Ruth Gockel, Emma Harmon, Irene Ziaya, and Louis Moseley Guests: Amanda Jones, (Police Department), Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women Voters) and Judith Herbert (NSSC) Staff: Nancy Flowers, and Joan Barott [I]. CALL TO ORDER Chair Nottenburg called the meeting to order at 9:40 A.M. Chair Nottenburg welcomed the guests. Chair Nottenburg asked the guests to introduce themselves. [II]. APPROVAL OF MINUTES APRIL 01, 2000 Chair Nottenburg stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are then approved at the COA meeting. The April 01, 2000 minutes were approved. [III]. COMMITTEE REPORTS Long Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker commented on the loss of membership for the LTC Committee and stated that she hoped that the vacancies will be filled shortly. CoA MIN. 05/0b/2000... Page 1 Chair Nottenburg suggested that the LTC Committee advertise in Highli bits for individuals interested in joining the LTC Committee. Charlotte Becker reported that the revised LTC Ordinance has been the primary agenda item of the past two meeting. A draft of the Committee's recommendations will be reviewed and presented to the COA at the June 03, 2000 meeting. The COA then will present these recommendations to the Human Services Committee. Discussion has focused on Albany Care and Greenwood Care and whether they should be included in this Ordinance ,.Nzth the other LTC facilities. Chair Nottenburg's understanding is that the LTC Committee is accepting the LTC Ordinance as presented and will recommend to the COA that this draft be accepted as written. It will then be presented to the City Council that this ordinance be accepted as written. Ms. Flowers stated the LTC has an invitation to meet with the Mental Health Board to discuss the LTC ordinance as it pertains to Albany and Greenwood Care. Ms. Becker stated the LTC Committee's will not hold a site visit the month of May. Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn Him reported that the Intergenerational Committee met April 17, 2000. Ms. Him stated that the committee will be having an Intergenerational Providers' Ideas Exchange Tuesday, May 23, 2000 at the North Shore Retirement Hotel and all the Intergenerational Programs in Evanston have been invited. his. Kitty Okano (Chute School), who coordinates an Intergenerational Program at the North Shore Hotel, will be presenting at this providers' exchange. Ms. Him commented that Senior Connections was holding a concert which consisted mainly of older people performing and a brochure for the event was passed out. Transportation will be provided via a bus pick up. Chair Nottenburg inquired as to the attendance at the Intergenerational Meetings and Ms. Him stated that it has been inconsistent. CoA MIN. OS/06/2000... Page 2 [III.] CHAIR REPORT Ruth Gockel - Chair Nottenburg commented that Ruth Gockel is in the hospital and that she expects her recovery period will be six to seven weeks at home. Chair Nottenburg commented that Jay Terr's absence is due to his son's First Holy Communion Day. Levy. Center Interim Opening - Chair Nottenburg commented that a large number of the Levy Center members were in attendance at the Open House in April. Chair Nottenburg complimented the construction people for their hard work in making this a pleasant and beautiful facility. Bettie Jean Thomas commented that the members are pleased with the interim Iocation of the Levy Center with one exception, the lack of air conditioning. Ms. Thomas stated that in the rear of the building it was very cold and at the front of the building by the gift shop it was very warm. Chair Nottenburg stated that the Director of Recreation would be contacted and advised of this situation. Chair Nottenburg reported that at this Open House, Alderman Feldman registered for membership. Judith Herbert questioned the reality of a $20.00 membership to Levy and that this would entitle the member to the use of the Evanston Athletic Club as well as the McGraw Y at no additional charge. This was confirmed that membership included use of the Evanston Athletic Club and McGraw Y at no additional charge and Mr. Herbert felt this was wonderful and would increase membership. Ms. Wangerin inquired if the position of Levy Center Director had been filled. Ms. Flowers stated that they are still in the process of interviewing candidates for the position. At the present time there are approximately 600 - 700 members of the Levy Center. CoA MIN. 05/06/2000...Page 3 The Levy Foundation has purchased a bus for picking up members at various locations and a survey has been distributed to members.asking for acceptable points to pick up passengers to attend the Levy Center. At the present time, they have not secured a driver. Amanda Jones commented that Alderman Newman would like to see the Levy Center bus used to pick up seniors at the three HUD facilities for grocery shopping, and other outings as well as for use by the Levy Center. Mr. Terry and Mr. Gaynor are discussing the feasibility of using this bus for these multiple purposes. Chair Nottenburg commented that the COA September, 2000 meeting would probably be held at the Levy Center Interim location, 1629 Chicago Avenue. [IVI. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Jacob Blake Manor - Ms. Flowers stated Ebenezer AM has requested approval from the City to substitute some of the previously approved building materials. They have gone over budget with their previous plans. HUD has stated that they need to begin construction or lose funding. Mr. Terry will speak about this at the June COA meeting. Walchirk Apartments Follow Up - Ms. Flowers stated Alderman Newman requested a response from Mr. Hardy regarding the follow up problems identified by the residents of the Walchirk Apartments. Mr. Terry attempted to reach Mr. Hardy and left word. Upon receiving the response, Alderman Newman would like this response to be presented to the building residents. Nis. Becker commented that she and Ms. Flowers have been attending the Residents' Council meeting at the Walchirk Apartments and the residents are still apprehensive about going to his. Turnoy with issues. _ C. Louise Brown, Director Health Department - Ms. Flowers advised_ that C. Louise Brown will be retiring June, 2000. CoA MIN. 05/06/2000... Page 4 There will be sonic restructuring in the Department of Health and Human Services due to IN -is. Brown's retiring. Mr. Terry will discuss this at the June 03, 2000 meeting. Income Tax Service for Seniors - The income Tax Service- is completed with a total of 77 completed, 3 cancellations for a total of 80. Aging Well Conference May 19, 2000 - his. Flowers distributed the Aging Well Conference brochures and encouraged the COA members to make their reservations as soon as possible. Ms. Flowers stated that transportation has been arranged for the seniors living at the subsidized buildings, i.e., Perlman Apartments, Walchirk Apartments, and Primm Tower. Taxi Cab Ordinance - Ms. Flowers stated that staff has been working with the Taxi Cab Drivers' Training Program. Ms. Flowers stated that staff has been monitoring complaints and reporting these complaints to the City Collector's office. Ms. Flowers commented that she is recruiting some seniors who are users of the taxi program to be speakers at the training and to give their input about the needs of program users. Ms. Becker inquired if there would be an increase in the cost of the taxi cab coupon. Ms. Flowers stated that at the present time no action has been taken. Amanda Jones referred to a recent incident whereby a driver did not give assistance to an older passenger who gave a direct request for assistance. The passenger met with a serious accident getting out of the cab and required hospitalization. Due to the seriousness of the accident, the police became involved. This passenger was not a taxi cab program participant. Ms. Becker suggested that taxi cab drivers have a physical, which would let the passenger know if perhaps the driver had a handicap himself and could not give extra assistance to the passenger. 41s. Flowers commented that the taxi cab drivers are not allowed to provide "hands on" assistance for passengers. CoA MIN. 05/06/2000... Page 5 ]VIII. NEW BUSINESS: Amanda Jones discussed briefly on the Security Survey for 1900 Sherman and 2300 Noyes Ct. and she will follow up to see if the building managetmtnt intends to follow up on the recommendations made. Bicycling - Amanda Jones stated the Police Department has been in comet with Northwestern regarding Evanston downtown bicycling offenders. N%rith the change of semesters, the new NW students may not be aware of the regulation and the NW Daily will carry a notice to this effect. The police bicycle patrol will be patrolling 1:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. for the summer. The question was raised if the volunteers issuing the handicap parking ticketing could also issue tickets to the cyclists. This will be looked into. Ms. Jones commented that she has for distribution a brochure on Community Groups Neighborhood Watch Crime Prevention packets as well as Lifeline packets. Ms. Jones explained the purpose of the Lifeline packets. Katherine Him commented that the Ti Chi program, which is held at Primm Tower, has had a good attendance. Judith Herbert commented that the Ti Chi classes have a very good teacher and the participants are well pleased with her. Ms. Herbert suggests that the COA visit one class and see for themselves the response from the participants. [VIII]. OLD BUSINESS: None ]IX]. COMMENTS: None The Meeting adjourned at 10:50 Submitted, Joan M. Barott CoA MIN. 05/06/2000...Page 6 3 DRAFT NOT APPROVED EVANSTON COMMISSION ON AGING April 01, 2000 MINUTES Present: Charlotte Becker, Bob Nottenburg, Warren Howlett, Shirlee Taraki Kathryn Him, Ernestine Guillebeaux, Myrtle Wangerin, Ruth Gockel, Emma Harmon, Irene Ziaya, Louis Moselev, and Bettie Jean Thomas Absent: Claude Metzler and John Kenneally (who resigned March, 2000) Guests: Amanda Jones, (Police Department), Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women Voters) and Virginia M. Laura (Resident of the Walchirl: Apartments) Staff: Nancy Flowers, and Joan Barott [I]. CALL TO ORDER Chair Nottenburg called the meeting to order at 9:45 A.M. Chair Nottenburg welcomed the guests. Chair Nottenburg asked the guests to introduce themselves. Jill. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MARCH 04, 2000 Chair Nottenburg stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are then approved at the COA meeting. The March 04, 2000 minutes are approved with the following changes. Page 3 should read: cited instead of sited. Page 2 should read: Another resident stated that all of the tenants feel intimidated. Page 14 should read: jurisdiction over. Chair Nottenburg recommended at the March 04, 2000 meeting that due to the lateness of the hour, the Committee Reports would be deferred until the April 01, 2000 COA meeting. CoA MIN. 04/01/2000... Page 1 • t Jill]. COMMITTEE REPORTS Long Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker reported that tilt revised LTC Ordinance has been the primary agenda item of the last two LTC meetings. Discussion has focused on Albany Care and Greenwood Care and the potential impact of the loss of the City's enforcement ability. his. Becker stated that at the April 12, 2000 LTC meeting recommendations will be made regarding the LTC Ordinance, and the recommendations will be presented at the COA play G, 2000 meeting. Amanda Jones asked about the LTC Ordinance and the elimination of inspections by the City of Evanston in lieu of the State inspections. ills. Flowers commented that at the next LTC meeting, the Committee v6ill discuss this and prepare recommendations to be presented to the COA and the Human Services Committee. Chair Nottenburg commented that originally the Ordinance that was set up was only concerned with one thing, i.e., Long Term Care. Ms. Becker stated the LTC Committee made a site visit March 30, 2000, to the House of Welcome, which is a facility that the NSSC operates in Winnetka and Wilmette for persons with Alzheimers Disease, and Dementia. The LTC site visit had a small attendance. Ms. Becker commented that this was a ven, interesting facility. She noted that Evanston residents are served by the House of Welcome. Myrtle Wangerin inquired as to the means of travel for the Evanston residents who attend this program. Ms. Becker stated that the families of these individuals bring them. Nis. Becker stated that the LTC will be discussing issues of discharge planning at the April 12, 2000 meeting. Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn Him reported that the Intergenerational Committee met February 21, and March 20, 2000. Ms. Him stated that the committee has been discussing the possibility of having a providers exchange meeting for Intergenerational Programs. Ms. Him stated that there are many Intergenerational Programs in Evanston and many of them do not know much about each other. Ms. Him stated that the Intergenerational Committee has contacted the persons surveyed in 1995 and 1999 to see if they would be interested in such an exchange, and reported that there was a great deal of interest. Ms. Flowers has contacted the North Shore Retirement Hotel to explore the availability to host the event. Ms. Him has contacted Ms. Kitty Okano who coordinates an Intergenerational Program at the North Shore Hotel, about speaking at this first providers' exchange. CoA MIN. 04/01/2000... Page 2 1 The Committee has extended an invitation to the Community's Intergenerational Program to attend this meeting. Ms. Him stated that the Intergenerational Providers' Ideas Exchange will be held May 23, 2000. ]III.] CHAIR REPORT Resignations - Chair Nottenburg reported the resignations of both John Kenneally and Claude Metzler from the COA Committee. Chair Nottenburg asked the COA members to invite anyone interested in serving on the COA Committee, to contact Mayor Morton. Chair Nottenburg clarified the qualifications for being a COA member which is that they cannot work for any agency receiving funds from the City of Evanston. Senior Center Sub Committee - Chair Nottenburg commented that the architects presented three proposals for the outer structure of the new Senior Center. Chair Nottenburg commented that the Levy Center is scheduled to be built at the southeast corner of lames Park (intersection of Dodge and Mulford Streets). The cost of this structure will be approximately $5 million. Chair Nottenburg commented that there is a movement by the members of the Levy Center to get private funding and they are hopeful of raising $1 million. The City of Evanston has approximately $3 million (TIF). Chair Nottenburg commented that this new structure will be a beautiful building. Ms. Flowers stated the design for the new Senior Center has been approved with a courtyard in the center. Mr. Terry said they are looking at a $G million budget. Mr. Terry stated that the interim site will open in a couple of weeks. Ms. Wangerin asked about public transportation. 41s. Flowers stated that Mr. Levy and the Recreation Department are working on transportation from the subsidized senior buildings to the interim site, and they are working on a similar plan to get people from downtown Evanston to the new site when it is opened. Ms. Becker commented that the Evanston Review had many negative letters to the Editor regarding the transportation issue. Chair Nottenburg commented that the 204 bus can be re routed to go by the new Levy Center (James Park). He noted that the 97 bus goes this way as well. Alderman Feldman wants the transportation issue to be a high priority. There also will be 135 spaces for parking for those who choose to drive to the Levy Center. CoA MIN. 04/01/2000... Page 3 C Chair'Nottenburg commented that the Levy Center Board tins committed itself to making the new Levy Center a first class operation. GIs. Wang erin inquired if there was a Levy Center Director and Ms. Flowers stated there is still an Acting Director. Walchirk Apartments Follow Up - Chair Nottenburg: stated a follow up meeting was held on March 28, 2000 consisting of: Mr. Hardy (Cook County Housing Authority), Sioux Tumoy (Manager of Walchirk Apartments), Sheila Sullivan (Social Worker Walchirk Apartments), Jay Terry, Director. Nancy Flowers, Ombudsman, Chair Nottenburg, Myrtle Wangerin, Charlotte Becker, Emma Harmon. COA members, Amanda Jones, Sgt. Pettineo, Officer Whitehead, Police Department~ and Alderman Arthur Newman. Mr. Zwick (Beacon Newspaper) was also in attendance. Chair Nottenburg stated the meeting was a rehash of the December, 1999 COA meeting. Ms. Becker commented that when Mr. Hardy stated that 5% of the residents have mental problems that set a tone and an attitude and that is why there are problems at the building. The residents are looked at as being inadequate and making things up and there was no attention to the fear and anxiety of the residents. Emma Harmon commented that she was disappointed that the meeting did not have a 5 or 6 question agenda, whereby Ms. Tumoy could then respond to the specific questions. Chair Nottenburg was in agreement with Ms. Hannon's statement. Amanda Jones commented she was disappointed in the thrust of the meeting and as she pointed out to Mr. Hardy during the meeting, it is immaterial if 5% of the residents suffer from some sort of Dementia or not. From a Police standpoint, the Police have an obligation to go out when any resident calls and conduct an investigation. Sgt. Pettioneo and Officer Whitehead are assigned to this building and are instituting strategies to make the residents feel comfortable with calling the Police Department whenever they feel they v.-ould like to. Ms. Jones stated that a security survey was completed in March, 2000, and copies were sent to Mr. Hardy, Alderman Newman, Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers. Sgt. Pettineo and Officer Whitehead. This security survey contained the Police Department's concerns and recommendations for security in this building. CoA MIN. 0410112000...Page 4 Myrtle Wangerin commented that the discussion c-a ried two diffiettint themes, i.e., from Ms. Tumoy that everything is %vondertitl. (Ms. Wangerin felt the residents presented some very serious concerns at the previous. meetings.) Ms. Wangerin sensed that Ms. Turnoy is not really concerned about lirr wsiderim, but rather that she is more concerned a gout refuting. any possible criticism. Ms. Wangerin commented that she felt very concerned about the residents being truly frightened. Ms. Wangerin paid a compliment to Anianda Jones because the Police have been wonderful in recognizing these things. \!s. Wangerin commented, due to her having to leave prior to the meeting ending, she was not aware if things had been resolved. Ms. Flowers commented that she was eery concerned with Mr. Hardy's opening statement and that it minimized the concerns of the 30 - 40 residents who have come to the Residents' Council and COA Meetings at the Walchirk Apartments by inferring that those who complained, were all cognitively impaired. Ms. Flowers stated that at Alderman Newman's request Mr. Hardy would respond to all of the complaints and concerns, which were raised at the meeting. Mr. Hardy and Ms. Tumoy reported that they have already obtained shopping carts for the building. Ms. Flowers commented that Mr. Terry and she will be lookinz at transportation and shopping issues related to Walchirk and Perlman. Upon receiving Mr. Hardy's response, Alderman Newman would like to set up another meeting convenient to Ms. Tumoy's schedule. Ms. Flowers and Ms. Becker will present to the Residents' Council this information and ask if they wish to sit down with Ms. Tumoy to discuss some of these issues. Ms. Becker commented that if the residents do take leadership, hopefully they will not be asked to leave. Ms. Becker commented that the attitude that Mr. Hardy appears to have, leaves the residents to believe, that they are not worthy persons. Ms. Flowers and Ms. Becker have had an active interest in working xith the Residents' Council, and Council Members have been assured that Ms. Flowers and members of the COA will continue to meet with the Council, and support them. Ruth Gockel gave a suggestion that residents routinely check on one another. Amanda Jones stated that the social worker, Sheila Sullivan, checks on the residents. Kathryn Him commented that at the Perlman Building a flyer was distributed under each resident's door giving out emergency phone numbers. CoA MIN. 04/01/2000... Page 5 i Chair Nottenburg commented that Ms. Turnoy spends halftime in each faciDiiy and perhaps she could rearrange her schedule of mornings at Walchirk Apartments and afternoons at Perlman Apartments. Nis. Becker feels four hours in each building is insufficient. Ms. Flowers stated Sheila Sullivan, the social worker, covers four buildings, of which two are in Evanston. Chair Nottenburg stated this is a gait and see what response Alderman Ne anan receives from Mr. Hardy. [IV]. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Ms. Flowers stated Mr. Terry was vacationing in Disney World. Nis. Flowers reported that the Illinois Association of LTC Ombudsmen had requested a meeting with the Department on Aging, regarding Assisted Living. Ms. Flowers gave a history of past mediation meetings in 1999 and discussed the inclusion of language related to complaints and an appeal process for residents in Assisted Living facilities. Ms. Flowers stated that the language in the Bill had been written to incorporate the same rights and protections as residents have in LTC facilities. However, the Bill on its way to passage, was changed, with an Assisted Living Ombudsman replacing the LTC Ombudsman as advocates. Ms. Flowers stated that Illinois Citizens for Better Care (an independent nursing home advocacy group), and Legal Assistance Foundation of Chicago have been very supportive of the Ombudsman Program over the years. Ms. Flowers stated that at the bi annual regional Ombudsman Training, April 04 - 06, 2000, the Deputy Director of the Department will meet with the Ombudsmen, and the primary topic will be the Ombudsmen Program and Assisted Living, Ms. Flowers has been nominated by the Illinois Association of Long Term Care Ombudsman to be the representative to the Department of Public Health's Advisory Board, which will be writing the rules for Assisted Living. An Ombudsman from the Legal Assistance Foundation has also been nominated for the Department on Aging Advisory Board and for Public Health. Nis. Wangerin inquired if the Ombudsman Program has been in contact with "elderly groups", i.e., AARP. Ms. Flowers commented that AARP convened the mediation group that develop-ed the legislation's' language because there was so much dissension about the Assisted Living legislation. She noted that AARP and ICBC were the two main groups which supported the Ombudsman Program in obtaining State funding. Ms. Flowers stated that currently a number of provider entities are drafting language for the rules for Assisted Living. CoA MIN. 04/01/2000... Page 6 She noted that the Ombudsman Prcp7r:un had not been invited to be luvt of this group. AARP has been involved and this group will present these proposed rules to Public Health. She noted that Public H�:,3lth is under no obligation to accept these rules. The legislation is to be enacted Rmuary 01, 2001. Ms. Wangerin was glad to hear that citizens groups are being used. Ms. Flowers stated that Julie Hamos, Jeff Sch,N-nhurg, and Carole Ronen have been contacted about the Assisted Living Legislation, and Ms. Flowers will follow up with them. Ms. Flowers stated that Ruth Gockel and she participated in a meeting in Springfield, called "Real People, Real Problem_, Real Solutions". This meeting was convened to look at the Statewide Ombudsman Program as well as the Regional Programs and to seek ways of approving them. Participants were from all walks of life, including nursing home residents and their families, nursing home providers, seniors, legislators, and advocacy groups. Participants evaluated four component parts of the program: awareness, State and Local structure, quality, and resources. There were 50 attendees. Ms. Flowers reported that a full report would be completed shortly. Ms. Flowers stated that in her group there was a representative from Illinois Health Care Association and she had many comments regarding the quality of the Ombudsman Program in her area. Families, that had not had positive experiences with the Ombudsman Program, were also invited to make recommendations for the program. Meeting - Ms. Flowers stated there was a meeting with representatives of Evanston NW Hospital, St. Francis Hospital. NSSC, and Metropolitan Family Services along with Ms. Flowers (COA) and Haney Saver (Mental Health Board) to look at how Evanston NW Hospital might help meet the mental health needs of seniors in the community. Dr. Fred Miller, Head of Psychiatry, Evanston NW Hospital, is interested in developing outreach to the community. Aging representatives and City staff were asked to identify the needs of seniors at risk. Dr. Miller stated that ENH is looking for trained geriatric psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and a social worker to serve the three network hospitals. Aging Well Conference - Ms. FIowers encouraged the COA members to get their reservations in for the Aging Well Conference (King Home, 1500 Oak), to be held May 19, 2000, due to the limited seating. CoA MIN. 04/01/2000... Page 7 Caring for Someone with Memory Loss (5 part series) - Ms. Flowers commented that she is a presenter in this five part series, that is being co sponsowd by COA, NSSC and the Mather Foundation. [VII]. NEW BUSINESS: Ms. Becker commented that she had attended a workshop on family violence; in the afternoon she attended the session on elder abuse, and suggested that Carla Frisch, Metropolitan Family Services, speak to the COA members on this subject. Chair Nottenburg commented that Ms. Frisch had done this in the past. [VIII]. OLD BUSINESS: None [IX]. COMMENTS: None The Meeting adjourned at I0:50 Submitted, Joan M. Barott CoA MIN. 04/0112000... Page 8 DRAFT NOT APPROVE[] EVANSTON CO'MMI`SION ON AGING March 04. =tkx1 Walchirk ApartmentA 2300 Noyes 0. MINUTES5 Present: Claude Metzler, Charlotte Becker, Bob Nottenburg Kathryn Him, Ernestine Guillebeaux, Myrtle Wangerin, Ruth GockeI, Emma Harmon, Irene Ziaya, Louis Moseley, and Bettie Jean Thomas Absent: Warren Howlett, Shirlee Taraki, and John Kenneally Guests: Alderman Art Newman (1u Ward), Alderman Gene Feldman (9`, Ward), Bruce Hardy, (Director of Management Cook County Housing), Roxanne Vollemann (Department of Housing), Mitch Lifson (Office of Rep. Jeff Schoenberg), Roberta Schur (City of Evanston Planning Department), Alexander Brown (NSSC), Amanda Jones, Sgt. Pettineo (Police Department), Sheila Sullivan (Social Worker Walchirk Apartments) and Residents of the Walchirk Apartments Staff: Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers, and Joan Barott Ill. CALL TO ORDER Chair Nottenburg called the meeting to order at 9:35 A.M. Chair Nottenburg welcomed the guests, and thanked the residents of the Walchirk Apartments for the invitation to conduct the COA meeting at their facility. Chair Nottenburg ask the guests to introduce themselves. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FEBRUARY 05, 2000 Chair Nottenburg stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are approved at the COA meeting. The February 05, 2000 minutes are approved. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000...Page 1 [1111. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS WALCHIRK APARTMENTS RESIDENT ISSUES Chair Nottenburg stated that the meeting was open for discussion and asked the participants to speak up, and limit their remarks to the issue. One resident stated that she believes the place is kept very well, she has no problem with the manager, she always has been able to contact her and she feels very safe. She commented based on what she is hearing, it is not the management, but the government policy, which the building has to adhere to. The government has guidelines. She requested where to write to express her concerns on what she is hearing at this meeting. Another resident stated that all of the tenants feel intimated. She has heard numerous complaints (all honest and sincere) from the residents. This resident encouraged all the residents present to speak up now or else "shutup". One resident asked if the City knew a good glazier since Ms. Tumor• cannot find one to fix the seal on her window. She reported that this problem has existed for 3 - 4 years. One resident asked if the printed rent bills could be made readable as most seniors have difficulty reading the faded bills. One resident commented that when locks are replaced, new tumblers should be put on because she was robbed of her medication, and her boots within a two week period. The new lock that management gave her was a recycled lock, and nine days later her medication was stolen. Alderman Newman displayed a flyer by management and commented that at the last meeting at 2300 Noyes Ct. the residents were saying that this building was a dirty and poorly managed place to live. He feels that the reason the COA came to the building was to seek ways to improve the building and to work with the residents to have a better building. The City staff put together a list of recommendations that would make the building more compatible. Alderman Newman spoke about the complaint of knocking on one resident's door at 12:00, 1:00 A.M., which scared her. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 2 - . Alderman Newman asked the residents if they could share with the COA so than we can get up to date on this issue of security. One resident commented that this has happened to her at 2:00 A.M. and she is afraid to go to the door. Another resident stated she had the knocking at 3:00 A.M. duu morning, and has experienced this almost on a weekly basis. She commented dnere was at one time, a resident with dementia who wandered the halls at times. This person no longer lives in the building. Alderman Newman asked the residents how they thought people got into the building? One resident replied that is what she would like to know! Mr. Hardy asked the residents who experienced this to raise their hands, and most of the residents present raised their hands. The residents stated this occurs on all floors. One resident stated that the person/persons who have entered her apartment leave evidence of being there, and this has been going on for sometime. Another resident commented on a similar situation. One resident stated that she had no complaints, however, her neighbor did experience the knocking on her door. One resident complimented the Evanston Police Department who give immediate response to the building whenever called. Ms. Becker asked about residents being afraid to go out of their apartments after 8:00 P.M. (December, 1999 COA meeting). One resident responded that she was one of the residents who stated this and sited an example of a strange man following her into the building. One resident commented that Monday, the garbage room was smelly, and the floor was not clean. Friday afternoon, the smell was gone and the floor was clean. One resident came last year to a COA meeting (Civic Center) and spoke to the COA members regarding the cleanliness of the hallways in which they had waxed over dirt. After mentioning this to Ms. Turnoy, the custodian and a helper did clean the hallways thoroughly and did a beautiful job. However, the hallways have not been mopped since leaving balls of dust. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 3 On resident noted that in the staircase of the building, you can see the fungus growing on the blinds (no ventilation). This resident has spoken to Ms. Turnoy several times about this, and Ms. Turnoy stated that these blinds were washed the year before. One resident commented on the location of lights in the bathroom, the difficulty in trying to change a bulb and the possibility of falling in attempting to change the bulb. Another resident stated that a manual is given to you upon renting and it states that the janitor is to change the light bulbs. A resident noted that the steam from cooking in the kitchen sets off the smoke alarms. This resident made an attempt to stop the alarm by fanning and then called the custodian, who came stop the alarm. The custodian gave a suggestion as to how to turn it off if this happens again which would require standing on a chair to pull a pin. This resident stated that if this alarm would continue, the Housing Authority would be charged for false alarms should the Fire Department have to come. She suggested that the stoves have small range hoods which would take care of this problem. Ernestine Guillebeaux commented that at the last meeting a lot of the tenants felt intimidated and reported being told that "if you don't like what is going on here, move". Ms. Guillebeaux spoke with a resident and suggested she be on the Residents' Council but she declined, as she is afraid of the threat that she would have to move. A resident stated her request to transfer to a lower floor was denied, and wondered if this was a firm rule. A resident stated painting was done at the time she moved in (6 yrs. ago). Her apartment has not been painted since that time. She has tried to wash the walls herself but due to the paint consistency, is unable to make them clean. She understands that there are a lot of apartments to paint a lot of paint to buy and very little monies coming in. She mentioned that the prior occupant apparently took off the sink top and the veneer is all scratched. She feels intimated and stated that "she is not even a step above Cabrini Green," and she lives in Evanston. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 4 Eel A resident commented that he does not know why they can't fix the plumbing a 2300 Noyes Ct. When he moved in 8 months ago, he had trouble with the toilet.. A replacement was made but the same problem of overflowing still exists. Another resident stated that she had been slipping and sliding on the toilet scat for two years. This resident spoke with Sioux Turnoy, and Mr. Hardy. The replacement toilet seats do not fit and she continues to slip and slide, and this is a worry to her that she will fall off of the toilet, hit her head and be found on the floor. The same resident stated that she cannot cook on her stove unless the temperature is at 400 - 450 degrees. She has spoken to Mr. Hardy regarding this. She complained to Mr. Hardy that her Christmas turkey was uncooked inside, cooked only on the top. She reported that she has not heard one thing from Mr. Hardy. She had a relative check the toilet seat who noted that the bolts were worn. Another resident confirmed this resident's statement as she too had problems with the toilet seat. This resident bought a toilet seat and her relative put it on, but the bolts are worn. Ms. GuilIebeaux asked if this was legal to have an outsider to do the work. The resident did not know. This resident thanked the COA for their time and concerns and to the City and Cook County for providing a place for them to live. "We do appreciate it, and don't misunderstand our complaints." Ms. Becker commented that she had been working with the Residents' Council and a major issue was access to carts which tenants could use to transport their groceries from the lobby to their apartments. One resident stated that tenants need the shopping carts for transporting their groceries. Some residents also need a TV cable switch, which will enable them to view the lobby from their apartments. It was reported that Ms. Turnoy felt this is the responsibility of the individual residents to get this switch. The security camera issue could be resolved simply with a switch provided by the Cable Company. Management is not going to order these switches from the company, and the residents will have to contact the Cable Company to have the switches brought in. One resident asked about getting transportation one day a week to and from grocery stores as is done in some other buildings. Chair Nottenburg commented that this is something the Resident Council should work on. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000...Page 5 One resident stated that there is a schedule of building repairs but that staffwe= two - three years behind with the repairs. A repairman told this resident that the repairs will be done, but not right away. Amanda Jones (Police Department) stated that security was discussed at the Residents' Council meeting as well as at the COA meeting_ Ms. Jones stated that a building security survey will be done March 8, 2000. This will take in the outside of the building, i.e., what kind of lighting does the building have for residents to walk to the building. The inside public areas will be surveyed, i.e., doorways, windows, security cameras, and utility area. The Evanston Police Department will also check one or two apartments on the ground floor. After completion, his. Jones will give a list of recommemdations to Ms. Turnoy. Ms. Tumoy will not be present during this survey but is aware of it. Ms. Jones commented that the residents should always keep their doors locked. Ms. Jones commented regarding keys that have been turned over to non-residents. Ms. Jones urged the residents to participate in the Residents' Council meetings. Emma Harmon commented that a relative had lived in the building about five years ago and persons were coming into the apartment (not breaking in) and stealing medications, money, etc. from her apartment. Ms. Harmon questioned, "How long do these residents have to put up with someone entering their apartments with a key and taking things out?" Alderman Newman reiterated that when he was at the last meeting, it was said that the locks were rotated in the building and people who had keys would just try every door until one opened. Alderman Feldman stated he was very interested in seeing that there is some kind of continued response to tenant concerns about security. He expressed concern about the idea that someone has a master key that enables them to get into the apartments. He feels this must be dealt with right away. Ms. Becker commented on the unauthorized persons living in apartments. She questioned what is being done to evict these persons? CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 6 One resident stated that the windows are locked in the halls. She requested that the windows be opened to allow the odors from cooking and any garbage smell to escape. She opens her windows to get fresh air. This resident stated that no one does anything for the residents. A resident commented that due to no open windows in the halls, smells from even cleaning solutions can be smelled. This resident stated that management will not allow carts in the building because they leave black marks. She stated that many residents are unable to cam, their groceries from the building lobby to their apartments. Ms. Turnoy stated that the residents could not ever bring a shopping cart into the building again. Myrtle Wangerin stated she was present at the last meeting held at 2300 Noyes Ct. and she heard many of the same issues. She questioned whether things had gotten better, which she hoped, or people were hesitant about speaking up. She noted that these are the same issues that came up at the last meeting. Nis. Wangerin questioned whether building conditions had changed. The other question she had was it seemed to her that the Residents' Council was not real active at that time. She noted that some of these issues could be brought up to the Residents' Council and then brought to whomever is in charge. Ms. Wangerin questioned whether the maintenance person has gotten better, and noted that the Police Department is reassuring building residents. Ms. Wangerin stated that she had not heard very much improvement about maintenance. She also questioned if Ms. Tumoy had changed in her attitude because residents had previously stated that you get no place making complaints to management. Ms. Wangerin stated that she did not think residents should apologize for having brought issues up, because they were the very same issues, which were brought up before. Chair Nottenburg asked Mr. Hardy to address the audience. Mr. Hardy thanked the COA for inviting him to the meeting. Mr. Hardy has been the Director of Management for six years. Mr. Hardy stated that he heard a lot of negative things but he had heard some positive things too. Mr. Hardy apologized for Mr. Floyd not being able to attend. Mr. Hardy will be in contact with Mr. Floyd regarding this meeting. Mr. Hardy commented that all persons want to make the building better. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 7 Mr. Hardy's comments: 1. Glaziers - Will be forth coming to fix the problem. 2. Rent Statements - This is the first time this has been brought to his attention. Mr. Hardy will check with the persons responsible to make the notices more legible. 3. Garbage Rooms • Mr. Hardy will ask that the custodian clean this area more frequently. Resident Comment - One maintenance person for the building inside and outside is a big job. This resident Iives by the garbage room and she sweeps the room when it needs sweeping. She suggested that if anyone sees a resident not picking up garbage, etc., in a nice way they should approach this person, as the person may not be aware of what they are not doing and should be doing. Residents should pick up garbage when they drop it. Mr. Hardy stated that the custodian is given help for the outside grounds. Mr. Hardy's understanding is that Sam the custodian is doing a pretty good job. 4. Resident Comment - The building does not recycle so why leave pop bottles, milk cartons, etc. standing on the floor when there is a chute. There are signs to this effect in various languages. One resident felt the garbage for the most part was sufficiently handled. S. Lights in Bathroom - Mr. Hardy stated that no one wanted a resident to have to change their light bulbs due to safety reasons. If residents have this problem they should ask the manager and she will instruct the custodian to change the bulb. Alderman Newman asked for a timeframe for how long it should take maintenance to respond to these requests? y1r. Hardy stated most times, 45 - 1 hr. On a routine work order, 48 hrs. On an emergency call, 24 hrs. One resident commented that she and others were told by Ms. Turnoy that it is their responsibility to change their light bulbs. One resident questioned what could be done if it is over a weekend and both kitchen and bathroom light bulbs go out? Do residents have to wait until Monday morning when Sam comes? CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 8 This resident noted that lVls. Turner does not cc,-wme until Monday P.M. Mr. Hardy stated that the custodian's hours are R - 10:00 tin Saturdays to give assistance. If there is an emergency residents should call 708/755 - I 700 and management will get in touch with someone to give zssistance. Emma Harmon commented that two years ago there N\:ts an a mervency on Nevi Year's Eve. She noted that it ryas below zero, and residents called every number due to lack of heat. One resident stated that a resident did speak up and told Ms. Tumoy about this and the resident's feelings were that management did not care about some of these things. This resident stated that she feels Ms. Tumoy has an honest concern, except that she has "selective hearing!" Mr. Hardy could not give an answer regarding the New Year's Eve incident. He explained the heating system in the building, and noted that it should not go completely out. One resident commented that a certain person opens a window consistently by the elevator and when it is 40 degrees outside, this causes a draft in his apartment. This does not affect her apartment. He wishes Mr. Hardy would instruct residents not to open windows. b. Range Hoods - Mr. Hardy commented that under the "Modernization Jobs", new range hoods will be forthcoming. Last year, H`Ws engineer came to the building and discussed what changes and improvements residents would like to see. 7. Stoves - One resident stated her stove would not cook properly. Mr. Hardy stated that they would try and repair it, but did not promise that the resident would receive a new stove. 8. Comments by Manager - Mr. Hardy stated tenants were told by the manager, "if you don't like living here, move!" Mr. Hardy said that if Mr. Floyd or Ms. Turnoy was saying this, he will correct it. No one in the Housing Authority is authorized to tell any of the tenants this. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 9 9. Transfers - Mr. Hardy stated the Housing Authority does not transfer residents to other apartments at their request. The only exception is a medical condition, if you are required to travel more than two hours to or from employment or for medical attention, or for over or under occupancy (having more children). He noted that the transferring of persons is very costly. 10. Painting Cycle - Mr. Hardy stated that they paint the entire building inside and out every five years with the exception, if an apartment was painted within the last two years, then the apartment will be painted on the next cycle. Alderman Newman asked if Mr. Hardy could tell a resident when an apartment is scheduled to be painted. Mr. Hardy stated that Ms. Tumoy has the schedule of modernization in her office. 11. Toilets - Mr. Hardy stated that staff replaced the toilet in a timely manner. The resident stated that the same situation continues with the new toilet. Nir. Hardy has taken note of this. 12. Toilet Seats - Mr. Hardy stated that the toilet seat had been replaced. This resident stated that the hole is too large to fit the toilet and it comes loose and causes the slipping and sliding, and she would not like her children to find her on the floor with a banged head. Mr. Hardy stated that the Housing Authority is responsible for getting a toilet seat from the lowest bidder. Alderman Newman commented that it is his understanding the toilet seat does not fit the toilet. Mr. Hardy stated that residents should not get any outside personnel to work in the apartments. Residents should not use a son, daughter, etc. to do any kind of work in the apartment. The reason for this is that they are not insured. Amanda .tones suggested that the residents leave a note in a box or sign up sheet in the lobby advising the custodian that they need him between 8 - 10:00 A.M. on Saturdays. One resident stated there is a place in building where notes can be left. 13. TV Switch - Mr. Hardy stated that those residents who have cable need a switch in order to view the lobby. Alderman Newman commented that this is a project for the manager to see to it that it is done. Mr. Hardy will find out from the cable company if there is a cost or not- CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 10 14. Unauthorized People - Mr. Hardy stated that unnuthorized people en the building is a very- serious problem. Any resident who allows unauthorized persons to live in the building is in serious violation of their lease. i\ir. Hardy does have a few names, and these residents will receive a termination r►otice if they do not resolve this issue as soon as possible. i\!r. Flardy stated that at a meeting like this, usually the good people corns• and the bad people do not. He stated that if residents know of anyone having unauthorized persons Laving in the building, to please inform them that they had better "straighten up their act right away"l This issue has to do with safety and security. One resident inquired as to what time period is considered unauthorized living. stir. Hardy stated that a two week visitor is fine. 15. Transportation Service (Bus) - Mr. Hardy commented that this might be an issue that the COA may want to be involved in. Mr. Terry inquired if'some other resources were identified per shopping transportation, could the manager post a notice to this effect. Mr. Hardy stated that the building would fully cooperate with whatever system would be set up. 16. Carts - Mr. Hardy stated that it is difficult to bring groceries to the apartments and they should be allowed to have carts. Mr. Hardy believes the building manager and the Residents' Council should discuss this and come up with an equitable solution. Most HUD buildings do have shopping carts. Most HUD buildings do have railings to prevent damaging the walls. Mr. Hardy stated that if it is necessary the Chicago Housing Authority will purchase shopping carts. 17. Windows - Ventilation - Mr. Hardy stated that they did plan to ventilate the hallways. Mr. Hardy explained the present ventilation system, and how sometimes the roof vents are not working properly. 18. Home Care - Mr. Hardy commented that most home care services are permitted in the building, i.e., meal on wheels, home care nurse, other social agencies, etc. Someone living with a resident on a full time basis is not permitted. This is an independent living building and should a person need more services and attention than what is allowed, perhaps this is not the residence for that person. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 11 19. Screens - A resident stated that bugs came through the screens anda, relative came to remove them and she had to sit with a can of bug spray to prevent them from coming in. Mr. Hardy will take care of this. 20. Security Issues - Mr. Hardy stated that no one is walking around with a passkey. When tenants move, the lock is changed. Mr. Hardy stated that if a resident believes someone is going into their apartment, this is a Police issue. He encouraged residents to report this to the Police and they will inve-stigate this. Alderman Newman commented that the standards in Evanson at facilities is to have someone at the entrance door. Alderman Newman stated, "to have a half -day manager is not enough for the number of people in a building like this. This might be the industry standard but it is not enOugh." Alderman Newman commented that if there was a security person in the building all of the security issues would be eliminated. Alderman Newman commented that there seems to a major communication problem on a lot of things. Alderman Newman stated that he has had a very good relationship with Ms. Turnoy. He has tried to work with her every time she calls him to report that the building needs something. He stated that he was offended by what was in the notice posted by management to advertise the COA meeting. The COA and the City came to the building and invited Mr. Hardy to this meeting so that these groups could work together you to make the building better. Alderman Newman came to the building responding to people who live in his Ward, because they asked the COA to come. He stated that this type of a flyer is not in the spirit of working together. He is also offended, in all due respect to Ms. Turnoy, because he has returned every one of her phone calls over the years. He is offended that Ms. Turnoy was not at this meeting. Alderman Newman stated he is appreciative that Mr. Hardy took the time to be at this meeting and noted that it sounds like he is going to address some of the problems that exist at the building. Alderman Newman stated that the industry standard in Evanston is that people are expected to be safe in their buildings. Alderman Newman stated that he believes the residents who say that someone is knocking on their doors. Alderman Newman stated that he wants to have a good relationship with Ms. Turnoy, he wants to come back to this building and he wants Ms. Turnoy to be present at the next meeting. He wants to work with her, and make things better for the people who live in the building. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 12 k' He believes the building is understaticd, and he does. not knk-�w whoin to blame, if it is the HUD people in Washington not giving: enclugh niknity> Aldemian Newman stated that a half day manager here is not enough. Alderman Newman stated that he appreciated Mr. Hardy's attcnd:inee and that he is invited back again with Ms. Tumoy. Alderman Newman r ported that he wants answers about, painting, security, etc., and he is sure Mr. Hardy will get them. Alderman Newman stated that he took two hours of his Saturday. and lie is going to take two hours again because he wants to keep on putting in time so that things get right_ He stated that he cannot have a meeting like this and make it right unless he has the manager of the building present. He stated that he is willing to come back here and when Ms. Tumoy comes here, he expects her to be treated with respect just the same as every person who lives here deserves, when they have a complaint. Alderman Newman questioned when this meeting could occur. Mr. Hardy stated if the COA has any questions as to whether or not it is welcomed in the building by the Housing Authority, it is welcomed. He stated that the Housing Authority is anxious to hear any concerns or suggestions that the COA may have to make life better for the residents of this building. Mr. Hardy stated that some people have religious responsibilities on Saturdays and he is sure that Ms. Turnov would have made this meeting if she could have. Alderman Newman stated that Nis. Tumoy made it very clear at the last meeting that she was not coming to this meeting to get lambasted. Alderman Newman stated the biggest problem is communication with Ms. Tumoy. Alderman Newman stated that if Saturday is a bad morning, the COA will come back here on a Wednesday night, or Thursday night. One resident stated that Ms. Tumoy does not work at night or Saturdays. Alderman Newman stated that he is committed to finishing until "we get this right." Alderman Newman stated that he was willing to come at 4:00 R.M. during the week, if he had some advance notice. Alderman Newman stated, "Lets figures out what a good time for Nis. Tumoy is." Mr. Hardy stated if the COA «would like to have another meeting, and would like to have the manager here, the Housing Authority cannot really require Nis. Tumoy to be present. Mr. Hardy stated that he has been in this business a very long time, and he feels if you put one person at the entrance of the building all the problems will not go away. Alderman Newman asked why the building has only a half -day manager. Mr. Hardy stated that there are 13 buildings, and each one has pretty much the same standards. Mr. Hardy feels that the problems he has heard about are not related to staffing. Alderman Newman asked about the Cook County Police patrolling this building. Mr. Hardy stated that they provide baseline services. CoA IMIN. 03/04/2000...Page 13 Sgt. Pettineo asked whom the contact person would be that has responsibility for this building that is related to the Cook County Sheriffs Police? Every time Alderman Newman asks this question, no one seems to have this answer. Sgt. Pettineo noted that in his 25 years of being a Policeman here, he has never seen any one from the Cook County Sheriffs Police in this building ever. Mr. Hardy stated, as a police officer Sgt. Pettineo would know more of this than he would. Alderman Newman asked, what should be provided by the County, and what should be provided by the City of Evanston as far as policing the building. Mr. Hardy commented that Alderman Newman should know more about this, than he. Nis. Jones stated that the City of Evanston Police Department has agreements with landlords called trespass agreements, which allows the police to arrest persons who are trespassing and the landlord does not have to be standing there when this is done. When the Evanston Police Department is talking about a HUD (Cook County) funded building, that the Cook County Sheriff's Department has jurisdiction over, the Evanston Police Department does not know if it can have this trespass agreement here. It is a juristical matter, and the Cook County people have to answer this question. Ms. Jones questioned whether the Cook County Housing Authority will sign this trespass agreement with the City of Evanston Police Department, which will give the Evanston Police Department the authority to arrest trespassers? Mr. Hardy stated that the Housing Authority will do what other police departments do. Mr. Hardy stated that in many cases they give a "barred list" to the police departments with reference to people being in the building who are guilty of misconduct. Ms. Isam commented that HUD sent a questionnaire to the residents asking their input. Ms. Isam commented that there seems to be a communication problem with the Police, Alderman, and also with the residents. The communication problem appears to evolve around Mr. Hardy, Ms. Turnoy and the custodian. That is why she says "selective hearing". Alderman Newman asked Mr. Hardy if he, Ms. Turnoy, the COA staff, Police Department, Human Services, Ombudsman, and himself can have a meeting and review every single problem that was brought up at the meeting today and find solutions together. Where the group cannot find solutions, it can talk to the proper people for funding. A third meeting will then be held and hopefully this will be the last one, and the COA will report the findings. Mr. Hardy agreed that this meeting should occur. Mr. Hardy commented that he was on vacation today, but took the time to come to this meeting. Alderman Newman stated that "we appreciate you being here"! Mr. Hardy commented that he would come every time that he is asked. CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 14 Chair Nottenburg thanked Mr. Hardy. [111). COMMITTEE REPORTS Due to the lateness of the hour, Chair Nottenburg asked for a motion to adjourn the COA meeting. Long Term Care Committee, Intergenerational Committee, Chair Report, Director's Report and any Old Business or New Business was postponed until the April 01, 2000 COA meeting. [Vill. NEW BUSINESS: None [VIIII. OLD BUSINESS: None [IXI. COMMENTS: None The Meeting adjourned at 12:00 Submitted, Joan M. Barott CoA MIN. 03/04/2000... Page 15 DRAFT NOT APPROVED, EVANSTON COMMISSION ON AGING February 05, 2000 MINUTES Present: Claude Metzler, Charlotte Becker, Kathryn Him, Ernestine Guillebeaux, Myrtle Wangerin, Ruth Gockel, Emma Harmon, John Kenneally, Irene Ziaya, Louis Moseley, and Warren Howlett Absent: Bettie Jean Thomas, Shirlee Taraki, and Bob Nottenburg Guests: Judith Herbert (NSSC), Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women Voters), and Amanda Jones (Police Department) Staff: Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers, and Joan Barott [I]. CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Gockel called the meeting to order at 9:35 A.M. Chair Nottenburg met with an in house accident and was unable to be present. [ll]. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DECEMBER 04, :19991 AND JANUARY 089 2000 Vice Chair Gockel stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are approved at the COA meeting. The minutes of December, 1999 and January 08, 2000 are approved with the following changes. Page 7 (January 08, 2000): Should read: Ms. Becker commented that these minutes may reflect that the COA is raising some questions. Instead of: should reflect that the COA is raising some questions. Page 3 (January 08, 2000): Amanda Jones instead of Amada Jones. CoA MIN. 02/05/2000... Page 1 X [111J. COMMITTEE REPORTS Long Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker, Chair, stated that the LTC met January 12, 2000. The LTC had their site visit at the Presbyterian Home, MrGaw Care Center (Alzheimer Unit) January 27, 2000, which was very interesting. Ms. Becker commented that several LTC members attended a conference sponsored by the Illinois Department on Aging in Chicago on culture change in nursing homes, which was enlightening and dealt with caring for the elderly in long term care facilities. Ms. Becker stated that the LTC Committee is discontinuing the evaluation forms for site visits. The site visits will be discussed at the LTC meetings. The LTC is still interested in hospitals' discharge planning issues. The next site visit will be to the North Shore Retirement Hotel (4:00 P.M.) March 24, 2000. All COA members are invited to attend. ' ' Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn Hire reported that the Intergenerational Committee met in January and it was a good meeting. The Committee will make contacts with various intergenerational programs, and will report on this at the February 21 Intergenerational meeting. [IV]. FOLLOW UP TO WALCHIRK APARTMENTS MEETING Vice Chair Gockel reported that the COA March 04'h meeting would be held at the Walchirk Apartments. Vice Chair Gockel stated that Ms. Flowers met with Sioux Turnoy, manager. Vice Chair Gockel inquired as to what the follow up has been with regard to matters mentioned in the COA December Minutes, and in particular the letter writing to elected officials. Ms. Flowers commented that a letter would be written summarizing the minutes, which pertain to the Walchirk Apartments. Ms. Flowers reported that she and Ms. Becker attended the January 24, 2000 Residents' Council meeting at the Walchirk Apartments. There were approximately 20 residents in attendance. CoA MIN. 02/05/2000... Page 2 w, r The three important issues raised were: security within the building, (Amanda Jones was in attendance and provided information on this matter.), maintenance of the building, management responsiveness to resident concerns. The Residents' Council is interested in continuing to meet, and discussed inviting management to attend these meetings in order to hear their concerns in a structured way. iris. Flowers followed up with Ms. Turnoy regarding the residents' concerns. Ms. Turnoy expressed distress and surprise. Ms. Flowers stated that the security camera issue could be resolved simply with a switch provided by the Cable Company. Management is not going to order these switches from the company, and the residents will have to contact the Cable Company to have the switches brought in. Ms. Flowers spoke with Ms. Turnoy regarding access to the building by the Police Department, when there is a concern, in the building. Ms. Tumoy denies that she has discouraged residents from calling the Evanston Police Department, and feels it is important for them, when necessary, to call the Police Department. Ms. Turnoy feels strongly if there is a maintenance issue this should go through her. She sees this as quality control. Ms. Turnoy did acknowledge that she said to one resident, "you seem really unhappy here, perhaps this is not the right place for you". The residents are hearing this as, "if you don't like it here, get out"! The shopping cart issue is a very important issue to residents. The shopping carts that were in the building belong to D & D grocery. Ms. Flowers and Ms. Turnoy discussed the possibility of purchasing shopping carts for tenants' use. Ms. Flowers commented that the Residents' Council needs support to function in this building. Ms. Turnoy has agreed to supply the residents or a designated person who is willing to put together a newsletter similar to the Perlman Building's newsletter names of new residents, and their apartment numbers. Ms. Turnoy is currently monitoring people in the building who are not on the lease (using security cameras) to see who is coming and going, and she is doing her own investigation in order to remove unauthorized people from the building. NIS. Turnoy stated that she did not need any additional support on this matter and Ms. Becker stated that she did not agree with this and stated that Ms. Turnoy is very defensive. Emma Harmon asked if Ms. Turnoy agreed to come to any of the Residents' Council meeting. Ms. Flowers stated that Ms. Turnoy did agree to come to the meetings. When the Residents' Council was first formed, the meetings were held in the evening which was not conducive to his. Turnoy's schedule. The Residents' Council is considering changing the time of the meeting (morning/aftemoon). Ms. Wangerin commented "if Ms. Turnoy is so intimidating to us, she would be intimidating to the residents and they would hesitate to speak up." CoA. MIN. 02/05/2000...Page 3 Warren Howlett commented, "if she is such a strong indN idual, how did the place get into such a deplorable situation?" Ms. Becker recalled %,.-hen Ms. Tumoy was in an accident several years ago and Nc-as unable to be there, there was no one coming to the building except the janitor. Ms. Him commented that at the Perlman Building a maintenance man and his family live on the premises and the maintenance man is wonderfully responsible and keeps the building sparkling clean. Ms. Becker feels that some of these problems have been created by HUD due to some of the rules that they have. Mr. Terry commented that perhaps it is best not to make this a personality issue but to make it a resource issue. He suggested we contact all the elected officials and say that this building needs more resources, i.e., resources like a fuli time manager, shopping carts, switches for the cable TV, and hopefully if you get enough momentum towards giving the building all it needs from a resource point of view, Ms. Tumoy will be supportive during this process. Ms. Wangerin asked what the process of follow up is with letters. She expressed concern that tenants felt that they would make complaints and raise these issues and then "nothing is going to happen". It appears to Ms. Wangerin that after a period of months, this is a realistic feeling on the part of the residents. leis. Wangerin questioned what kind of changes, in particular, would need to be made if the residents wish to activate their council. The council has to have some sense that when they do take the risk of complaining something will come of it. She questioned where the COA tiaras in terms of involving elected officials in this discussion? Mr. Terry stated that the COA was waiting to get some sort of balance of what the real issues where in the building. Mr. Terry suggested that we draft a letter this week and get it out inviting all of these elected officials to come to the March 04, 2000 COA meeting. Ms. Becker pointed out that March 21, 2000 was Election Day. Vice Chair Gockel stated that the Residents Council has been reestablished and the COA is sending a letter inviting these officials, or their representative, to attend the March 04, 2000 meeting at the Walchirk Building. Amanda Jones commented from a security standpoint, that the Police Department take a look at the building from a fire prevention standpoint, i.e., outside lighting, access, accessibility backdoor/front door, lighting within the building, and report the findings to Ms. Tumoy, who in turn could report this to her supervisors. Ms. Jones commented that Officer Whitehead has been at the building and will continue to be very visible. Mr. Howlett asked about the security in the building. Ms. Jones commented that she is concerned about the perception and reality of security. CoA.MIN.02/05/2000... Page 4 A. Ms. Jones stated that based on her evening visits to the Walchirk building she would like to see more outside lights, a switch installed so that the residents know who they are letting in, and tied in with security is the need tier a nic hanism to remove people who do not belong in the building. It appears to take a -ery long tim. to remove these people, and Ms. Turnoy expressed her t'rustration with the length of time it takes to get someone out of the building. `Ir. Howlett asked about residents having I.D. cards. Ms. Flowers commented that when this issue was raised, there were some residents opposed to this. Ms. Flowers. commented she has seen the use of I.D.'s work effectively in some other buildings. Jeanne Zimmer asked if there was more discussion planned with the neighbors. Ms. Jones stated that none of the neighbors had called her. Ms. Becker has had conversations with a neighbor, and she is happy that the COA is working on these issues. Vice Chair Gockel asked if the neighbor should receive a copy of the letter. Ms. Becker stated the neighbors have a group called the Northeast Neighbors and she will advise staff who the Chair is and where the letter should be sent. M. CHAIR REPORT Long Term Care Ordinance - Vice Chair Gockel commented that the City Council would like input from the COA regarding the Revised Long Term Care Ordinance. Mr. Terry gave the history of revising the Long Term Care Ordinance as a result of the State of Illinois conducting investigations and doing licensure surveys of the nursing facilities in Evanston. The City had a 95 page Ordinance covering the nursing facilities, which was utilized and enforced for many years. The City of Evanston negotiated an agreement whereby the State took over most of the inspections. The HHS department has been involved with revising this LTC Ordinance to reflect the reality of what City staff are doing right now. There have been many meetings with the facilities, Mental Health Board, and the LTC Committee. A draft of this ordinance was presented to the Human Services Committee January 31, 2000. This draft eliminated any enforcement of local regulations. If the State issues a license, then the City of Evanston will also issue a license. There were mixed feelings at the Human Services Committee meeting. One Alderman felt the City should not issue a local license or collect fees and should let the State do it. The other concern was not wanting to get out of the regulatory business and this was due to concerns related to Albany Care and Greenwood Care which provide care for persons with mental illness. CoA. MIN.02/05/2000... Page 5 . 4 These facilities have had a history of causing problems for the community and several aldermen commented about the need to have a local license mechanism to deaf pith this. The Human Services Committee was very concerned that neither the Mental Health Board nor the COA had offered any specific comments to them on the issue. When the ordinance was adopted in 1989, both the Mental Health Board and the COA were instrumental in developing the ordinance. The Human Services Committee did not want to take any action without having direct commentary from both the Mental Health Board and COA. The Alderman directed that the minutes from the Human Services Committee January 31, 2000 meeting be sent to both the Mental Health Board and the COA Board with a strong request that the COA comment on the situation, and offer recommendations as to what should be done. Mr. Terry suggested that upon receipt of these minutes, the LTC Committee meet, consider the issue and bring a recommendation to the full Commission. Copies of the LTC draft ordinance will be distributed at the LTC meeting February 9, 2000. Ms. Guillebeaux feels eery uncomfortable that the State should take control of this. She feels that the State does not have enough personnel to cover this to do a good job. Ms. Flowers stated the State has a time frame to do individual investigations whereas the City of Evanston is able to respond immediately to incidents. John Kenneally made reference to the St. Francis Extended Care incident a few months ago. Ms. Becker commented that there will be a special meeting of the LTC Committee to discuss the Human Semites Committee's minutes regarding the Revised LTC Ordinance. Sub Committee - Levy Center - Vice Chair Gockel commented that the interim location (Szechwan Palace) should be ready for occupancy by the end of March, 2000. The new site (Recycling Center) is questionable now due to some architectural concerns. Chair Nottenburg attended a meeting of the Sub Committee a few weeks ago and the architect made a presentation including the plans he had drawn up and in the course of the presentation, he announced that to build a building as previously suggested, would intrude on the Community Gardens located in James Park. Furthermore, James Park is landfill and generally this would require caissons. The Sub Committee directed the City staff and architect to do an entire site review of the north end of James Park. The location of the traffic light is also an issue. The Sub Committee will be meeting February 10, 2000, 6:00 P.M. at the Civic Center. to discuss the various options. Vice Chair Gockel will attend this meeting. CoA.MIN.02/05/2000... Page 6 3(- Gathering for the Year of the Older Persons - The COA decided to make the May 19, 2000, Second Annual Aging Well: Choices and Myths Conference, their contribution to the Year of the Older Persons. Department on Aging Budget - Nis. Flowers stated the Department on Aging has unveiled its budget. The Department on Aging has been budgeted $360,000 to develop their Assisted Living Ombudsman Program. The Department will hire a program manager, and one person to assist that manager by June, 2000. The Department plans to contract with four Ombudsmen to go into Assisted Living facilities throughout Illinois. The Illinois Association of LTC Ombudsmen oppose this division of the Ombudsman program. Ms. Flowers will be attending a meeting in Springfield February 9, 2000 for clarification about plans for the Ombudsman Program in the Assisted Living facilities. The Legal Assistance Foundation of Chicago and Illinois Citizens for Better Care feel very strongly that the assisted living Ombudsman facilities should be a part of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program. Ms. Flowers explained that the CitVs Ombudsman Program is partially funded by Federal and State dollars. Ms. Flowers commented that the majority of the Assisted Living facilities in Evanston are already licensed. Ms. Flowers'.,as been going into these facilities as part of her regular Ombudsman work. Other facilities, which are not licensed, have invited Ms. Flowers to attend Resident's Council meetings, or help them with a concern, etc. Mr. Terry commented that the idea of having four people to cover the entire state of Illinois is unrealistic. Ms. Flowers commented that in other states where Assisted Living facilities are already regulated, the LTC Ombudsman goes into the facilities. Illinois has chosen to do it differently. The City of Chicago is the only other city which has an Ombudsman Program and their role is a little bit different. LTC in the 20`h Century: Strengthening the Workforce - Ms. Flowers commented that Catherine Unsino, a social worker from New York, who has been working as a consultant with LTC facilities was the speaker. The majority of her work has focused on staff development in facilities and the need to change the way nursing facilities are run. She believes that the nursing assistants are the most important staff persons in the facility and there is a need to recognize them for their strengths and to develop those strengths. Ms. Unsino spoke about the cultural issues that influence the ways in which they interact with residents and other staff. CoA. MIN. 02/05/2000... Page 7 k Ms. Unsino has requested a copy of -Evanston, LTC CNAs Study:; Ms. Wangerin thanked Ms. Flowers for the opportunity of being able to attend this conference. Ms. Wangerin stated she was very much motivated and would hope that Ms. Unsino might be able to present here in Evanston. Ms. Wangerin commented that anything we can do to help CNAs feel more appreciated, and able to develop a relationship between residents and aides should be encouraged. Ms. Unsino has worked in communities like Evanston to consult with groups of facility staff including administrators, social workers, activity staff, and CNAs. Ms. Flowers commented that some of the local facilities are interested in having Ms. Unsino present locally. Ms. Wangerin commented that the Board of Directors who represent these agencies should be invited also. Mr. Tent' commented that during the month of January, there have been 5 - b individuals living in their own homes who cannot take care of themselves. Ms. Flowers has been working with community social service agencies and other City staff to assist these residents to obtain needed services. [VII]. NEW BUSINESS: None 1VIII1. OLD BUSINESS: None (IX]. COMMENTS: Jeanne Zimmer passed out the League of Women Voters Evanston Community Guide flyer. The Meeting adjourned at 11:00 Submitted, Joan M. Barott x DRAFT NOT APPROVED EVANSTON COMMISSION ON AGING January 08, 2000 (MINUTES Present: Claude iNfetzler, Charlotte Becker, Kathryn Him, Ernestine Guillebeaux, Myrtle Wangerin, Ruth Gockel, Bettie Jean Thomas, Shirlee Taraki, John Kenneally, Bob Nottenburg, Irene Ziaya, Louis Moseley, and Warren Howlett Absent: Emma Harmon Guests: Judith Herbert (NSSC), Jeanne Zimmer (League of Women Voters) Staff: Jay Terry, Nancy Flowers, and Joan Barott II]. CALL TO ORDER Chair Nottenburg called the meeting to order at 9:40 A.M. Chair Nottenburg commented that due to Budget Hearings in the Council Chambers today, Mr. Terry would be attending the COA meeting (briefly) a little later. [11]. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DECEMBER 04, 1999 Chair Nottenburg stated that the minutes are prepared in draft form prior to the COA meeting, and these minutes are approved at the COA meeting. These minutes now are approved with the following changes. Shirlee Taraki commented that the December 04, 1999 minutes had not been properly edited and need better housekeeping. Chair Nottenburg stated he had already raised this comment. Chair Nottenburg commented that the errors were typographical and that there were no substantive errors. Ruth Gockel commented that even with the minutes being proofed by the Intern, she does not know how to spell either. Page 8 Should read: Commissioner Sutker and Polling is spelled With two "ll" not one. CoA MIN. 01/08/2000...Page I Chair Nottenburg is recommending that the COA minutes be read through by Ms. Flowers to correct any of the spelling errors. Page 4: Ms. Becker feels that something has been left out on this pate "slte �� - told by management that if someone fell, the insurance would not cover it." Ms. Becker wishes this to be clarified. Page 9: Ms. Becker stated that since the President of the Walchirk Residents' Council died, I have not been spending time on a regular basis at the building. NIs. Flkowers commented that the President is ill and has not died. 11111. COMMITTEE REPORTS Intergenerational Committee - Kathryn Him reported that the Intergene=onal Committee did not meet in December 1999, and the next meeting will be January 10, 2000. The Intergenerational Committee will review and develop the plans that were discussed at the November 15, 1999 meeting to develop some type of Intergenerational Program exchange. Chair Nottenburg asked about attendance at the November 15, 1999 meeting. Ms. Him reported "good", and that it was better than what it was before. Ms. Him reported that she and Shirlee Taraki had attend; d the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group party December 11, 1999, at Oakwood Terrace. Ms. Him stated she wanted to remind the COA members that there was an Housing Forum in November, 1999, and there is a follow up to this at the Unitarian Church this coming Wednesday. Chair Nottenburg commented that the North Suburban Housing Campaign is Saturday, January 22, 2000 at the Fist United Methodist Church. Long Term Care Committee - Charlotte Becker, Chair, stated that the LTC met December 08, 1999. Karen Seals had reported at the meeting that several Long -Tenn Care facilities had their annual licensure and certification surveys done by the State of Illinois. Some of these reports have not been received by the EHD but c.%i l be reviewed by the LTC at a future date. There were minor citations. Ms. Seals also reported that 40 - 45 residents of the Wagner Health Center had experienced diarrhea, and vomiting for three to four days. This incident was investigated by the EHD and IDPH. CoA MIN. 01I08/2000... Page 2 X4, Ms. Seals reported after investigation that there was no problem due to sanitation and that this was a problem due to a viral infection, which had been going around. Ruth Gockel commented that the sanitarians that do restaurants inspections were brought in to make sure that Wagner Health Care's residents did not have food poisoning. Ms. Becker commented on the site visit evaluation form, which LTC members are to fill out at the time of its monthly site visitation and turn in. LTC members plan to revise the form to make it more meaningful. Ms. Flowers attends the site visits and keeps a copy in the files of these forms, if there is anything negative, Ms. Flowers follows up on this. Ms. Becker reported that the LTC has begun to discuss discharge planning issues. The social work supervisor of St. Francis Hospital attended the December meeting and described her role and the responsibilities of hospital discharge planners. Ms. Becker commented that the LTC would obtain more information on the guidelines of discharge planning for Evanston Hospital and St. Francis Hospital. Ms. Becker feels that there are problems with inappropriate discharges, i.e. not enough staff, patients discharged without services, etc. Chair Nottenburg commented that Ms. Becker could obtain a set of accreditation standards from the Joint Commission and use these as a basis for what the LTC wishes to accomplish. Ms. Flowers commented that the Joint Commission standards would outline the policies and services that need to be in place, but does not contain the number of personnel to be on duty. The next site visit will be to the Presbyterian Home, McGaw Care Center (Alzheimer Unit) January 27, 2000. All COA members are invited to attend. [IV]. Fallow Up to Walchirk Apartments Meeting Chair Nottenburg commented that he attended the Police Advisory Board Meeting and Chief Kaminski is aware of the COA meeting which was held at 2300 Noyes Ct. Chief Kaminski has been briefed by Amada Jones, and Sgt. Pettineo. Chair Nottenburg inquired if a letter had been received from Sioux Tumoy, Manager, of 2300 Noyes Ct. Ms. Flowers responded, "no". Ms. Flowers will be setting up an appointment with Sioux Turnoy. CoA. MIN. 01/08-2000...Page 3 -x� Ms. Flowers and Ms. Becker will be meeting with the Residents' Council January 24,- 2000, and will report on this at the COA February OS, 2000 meeting. Ms. Becker commented that a suggestion was made at the December 04, 1999 COA meeting that John Stroger and Cal Sutker be notified and sent copies of the December 04, 1999 minutes. \ s. Flowers responded that they had not been sent copies of the minutes. Ms. Wangerin suggested a summary of the minutes be forwarded to Mr. Stroger and Mr. Sutker. Chair Nottenburg commented that the areas of concern are: security, maintenance, and personnel. Chair Nottenburg reiterated that, Alderman Newman at the December meeting suggested that the COA hold one of its monthly meetings at 2300 `'oyes Ct. and March 4, 2000 is the target date for this. Ms. Flowers commented that there would be a follow up on the staffing needs at Walchirk as requested by Alderman Newman. Chair Nottenburg stated that Jan Schakowsky and Jeff Schoenburg, would be notified of this matter. Ruth Gockel suggested that the senators receive notification of this matter as well. Ms. Wangerin stated that the senators should be aivare that there is a Committee of older people who are checking on these things. Chair Nottenburg stated that a copy of this letter would be forwarded to: Mr. Floyd, Cal Sutker, John Stroger, Jan Schakowsky, Dick Durbin, Jeff Schoenburg, Kathleen Parker, and Peter Fitzgerald. Ms. Gockel would like Sioux Turnoy, manager, to be copied. Chair Nottenburg stated that Alderman Nev,-man and Sioux Turnoy would receive a copy of the multiple addressed letter. Judith Herbert commented that the COA formerly had a Housing Committee that was disbanded due to lack of housing issues. She suggested that this issue might be appropriate for that Committee. Chair Nottenburg would like to see this issue handled by the Commission as a whole as opposed to an adhoc Committee of 3 - 4 persons. Ms. Becker commented that the new head of the CHA in Chicago is %%Titing to HUD to change some of their rules regarding senior housing. This would mean that the disabled could no Ionger be in senior housing. [VJ. CHAIR REPORT Police Advisory Board Meeting - Chair Nottenburg commented that he had attended the Police Advisory Board Meeting. Chief Kaminski stated that he has to reduce $800,000 from his budget. CoA.MIN.01/08/2000... Page 4 k� Sub Committee - Levy Center- Chair Nottenburg was unable to attend this meeting. Chair Nottenburg has seen the legal notices for bids for upgrading the Szechwan Palace. Levy Center is looking towards the end of February to move in. Assisted Living - Ms. Flowers stated that Public Health is beginning to review recommendations for participants in the Assisted Living Rules Work Group. This group is going to develop the rules that will determine how this legislation is going to be inacted and what roles Public Health. the Department on Aging, and the Ombudsman Program will have in the Assisted Living facilities. Chair Nottenburg commented that one of the things we know is that the legislation passed «zthout a pre exemption clause which means that Evanston as a Home Rule City, has the authority to pass an ordinance to supplement. The COA will be able to decide what it %%ishes to do, whether it be considering an additional ordinance, which means the COA would have to go through the Council. Ms. Flowers referred to a handout, "LTC in the 20'h Century: Strengthening the Workforce". This is a workshop that is being sponsored by the Department on Aging and the Ombudsman Program. The speaker is Kathryn Unsino who has done a great deal of work with long term care staff, particularly with nurses aides related to care issues and attitude changes within nursing homes. Ms. Flowers strongly encouraged the COA members to attend. Aging Well Conference - Ms. Flowers contacted Margo Schreiber, Director, Illinois Department on Aging, about being the keynote speaker. Many people have expressed interest in presenting at the conference and a proposal process was developed for submissions. Conference planners are talking to North Shore Retirement Hotel and the King Home as possible locations for the conference. The Conference will be a half day and is free. The focus of the Conference will be on older adults and their families and friends. Continuing education credits vvill be offered for professionals. Illinois Association of Long -Term Care Ombudsmen Program and the Illinois Retired Teachers Association's Project ICARE - Ms. Flowers stated that both these organizations are co sponsoring a work group to review the effectiveness of the Ombudsman Program. CoA. MIN.01/08-2000...Page 5 XI Project ICA.RE, the Regional Ombudsman Program located in the Springfield area, received a very large grant from the Retirement Research Foundation three or four years ago to begin to look at the Ombudsman Program and to identify gaps in services. The Long -Term Care Ombudsman Program is a statewide progi-am with 17 regional programs. There is a standards manual but each of the programs vary slightly throughout the State. The grant money has gone into various types of training, revisions to the Ombudsman Training Manual, and public awareness activities such as public hearings and educational forums. The two organizations are organizing an Ombudsman Summit, that will invite people from all over the State to help make recommendations for future program goals and development. leis. Flowers feels family members or residents of long term care facilities can speak about what kind of things they need from an advocate. Ms. Flowers asked the COA members if they would be interested in attending this March 27, 2000, meeting in Springfield, Illinois. Ms. Flowers will be a table facilitator and she will make arrangements to take two COA or other Community members if they are interested. [VIJ. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Levy Center - Mr. Terry reported hopefully that the City will have a contractor for the construction that is necessary to renovate the old Szechwan Palace and that occupancy is targeted for the end of March, 2000. At the present time the Levy Center is being run on a generator and there will be only one way in and out due to construction work. Participation at the Levy Center has dropped though some of the members are still using the Center. The architects have looked at the Oak -ton Avenue site plan and have two versions i.e., maximum and minimum, in terms of meeting the needs of the program statement. The difference is room size, and a couple extra roams. The City will have to pay $213.00 sq. ft. The City in its budgeting for this, budgeted between 4.5 - 5.0 million dollars. Extra money is needed for both minimum and maximum program statement. The Sub Committee will be meeting Thursday evening. The question of private fund raising does not appear feasible unless major donors are identified. Mr. Stafford, City Finance Director, was at the meeting and feels that a significant outlay of additional City cash beyond 4.5 - 5.0 million would be difficult to identify. At the moment there is no solution regarding this. With all of this, the architect has not been able to start the design of the building. The subcommittee would like this to happen by the City Council meeting in February 2000. CoA.MIN.01/08/2000... Page 6 In response to a question, Mr. Terry stated a joint venture had been discussed with the Mather Foundation at one time, but did not work out. Ruth Gockel asked if there wt= any foundations, etc. who would be interested in donating a room, etc. Ms. Wangerin suggested that another effort could be made between the Mather Foundation, City and Mr. Levy. Ms. Wangerin stated the residents of The Mather had received materials regarding the Mather Foundation and its outreach. The Mather Foundation supposedly is starting a senior center in Chicago, etc. Mr. Terry explained the history of the negotiations with the City, Mather, and YMCA. Mr. Terry stated that The Mather in giving a contribution would wish to control the venture. Ruth Gockel stated that fund raising for 1 million is a big effort. Mr. Terry stated that it takes "big money" for fund raising. Judith Herbert commented on the Edgewater Uptown area where agencies in that area were coordinating services. Ms. Herbert described The Mather Foundation's planned Senior Cafe, as a drop in center for seniors where food is provided. Mr. Terry commented that a capital campaign should have been started years ago. Ms. Gockel commented that the senior population is growing and that the Community will need the maximum activity built. She questioned whether, if they do the minimum, how many years is it going to be until the center users have outgrown it? Mr. Terry commented that the other complicating factor is about having a fitness center. These plans are going forward. This is likely to be a 5 - 6 million building. A building like this could receive federal and state support. Julie Hamos, State Representative, was able to get state funds for the City's planning purposes. If the fitness center building gets built, it would be adjacent to the Recycling Center, however, the current Levy participants argue that they need their own space, and will not utilize a fitness center if its built. Mr. Terry stated that experience in other suburbs suggest the opposite. Mr. Terry stated that the nature of senior programming is changing. Ms. Wangerin asked how come this core group is so powerful. Mr. Terry stated that this group comes to every meeting, and they are always persistent, and the members of the City Council feel an obligation to give them the services, and does not wish to leave the seniors with nothing. Mr. Levy supports this group. Ms. Wangerin asked about the Director of Levy Center and Mr. Terry explained that a search is in process to Iocate a replacement for the retired director. Mr. Terry is hopeful the new director will explore different programming possibilities. Ms. Becker commented that these minutes should reflect that the COA is raising some questions about the Levy Center and who attends. Ms. Becker would like some exploration. CoA. MIN. 01-08-2000...Page 7 x 2000 - 200I Budget Process - Mr. Tent' commented that the budget process for the fiscal year has started. By law the City Manager has to give a draft budget to the City Council by December 31, 1999 which he has. The City Manager's budget contains both a 9.4% property tax increase and a 25% sewer rate increase. Neither of those increases will be popular. The City Manager's position is that he has put all of The programs and services for the City in the budget and this is what it costs and this is the necessary tax increase. The City Manager's position, with the City Counc g, is that if they wish to avoid the increase in the property tax and sewer tax, they need to make some programmatic eliminations. As a part of this, a list of all the services provided by the City of Evanston, and not by similar cities has been provided. Hewth and Human Services is on this list including the COA and the Subsidized Taxi Program. Levy Center is on the list also. The City Manager will be asking the Council to give him some direction whether or not they want to consider the future of any of these programs and services. [VII]. NEW BUSINESS: [VIII]. OLD BUSINESS: None [IX]. COMMENTS: Ms. Gockel inquired if there was a Commission on Housing. Ms. Him stated that there was an Evanston Housing Coalition, which is not run by the City. Ms. Him wondered if the COA members had seen the article in Tempo regarding the Centurians people who are 100+. The Meeting adjourned at 11:00 NO Submitted, �.. ! . Joan M. Barott CoA.MIN 01/08/2000... Page 8