Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors FY 18
Keith Haley, Chairman
Rich Braccia, Vice-Chairman
Brandy Altergott
James Ferguson
Amos Fatorma
Frank Roberts
Chad Farr
Peter Vlandis, First Alternate
BESB Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors Meeting Dates for 2018:
March 6, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. (teleconference); June 5, 2018 at 4:00 p.m.
(teleconference); September 15, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. at BESB Office (annual
meeting); December 4, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. (teleconference). Contact Edward Owens
at (860) 602-4198 for additional information and teleconference
instructions.
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Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB)
Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of the April 12, 2018 Meeting – Conference Call
DRAFT
Attendance:
Committee:
Keith Haley, Frank Roberts, Brandy Altergott, Chad Farr, Jim Ferguson,
Peter Vlandis
Bureau:
Ed Owens
A roll call of members in attendance was taken. The meeting was called to review two potential operations. The first one was the West Haven Train
Station. The Department of Transportation advised the Agency that they would be
seeking a vendor to provide concession services for the convenience of the rail
commuters. Field Rep. Nick Faenza attended a walkthrough of the train station
and filed a site survey report which was reviewed by the Committee.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to waive the over the counter service at
the West Haven Train Station but to retain our rights to the vending machines
at the station.
Seconded by Chad Farr
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
The Committee then considered an inquiry by the Department of Energy and
Environmental Protection as to our interest in operating a concession which is
proposed to be operational at Silver Sands Beach in Milford for the 2019
season.
The Committee reviewed the program’s current commitments and felt that
they could make the following motion as this time.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to waive the proposed concession at Silver
Sand Beach but to retain our rights to the vending machines at the beach.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
No other business came before the Committee.
A motion was made by Frank Roberts to adjourn.
Seconded by Chad Farr
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 4:30 p.m.
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Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB)
Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of the March 6, 2018 Quarterly Meeting
DRAFT
Attendance:
Committee:
Keith Haley, Frank Roberts, Brandy Altergott, Amos Fatorma, Marc
Dombkowski, Chad Farr, Jim Ferguson
Bureau:
Brian Sigman, Ed Owens
A roll call of members in attendance was taken.
The minutes of the December 12, 2017 meeting were brought up for action.
Motion made by Brandy Altergott to accept the minutes as presented.
Seconded by Amos Fatorma
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
A budget update was given by Ed Owens. The balance of the Business
Enterprise Program (BEP) account is at $900,000. A comparison of income from
July, 2017 through February, 2018 shows a reduction of $30,000 when compared
with the same period a year prior. The history of income sharing with schools
and agencies was reviewed. It was noted that effective January 1, 2018, four
educational institutions which previously were granted 100 percent of the
commissions generated at their locations will become consistent with other
facilities and participate in a 40/60 percent income sharing with BEP retaining
60 percent of the commissions. BEP is projecting an $18,000 annual increase in
funds retained.
The rest area buildings on I-84 and I-91 remain operational for the first
shift only. On a national level, President Trump’s proposed budget would allow
for the commercialization of rest areas. Federal law currently prohibits
commercialization.
Many states have BEP vending facilities located at highway rest areas.
If Congress were to approve commercialization, it could impact all of these
vendors. Other states, like Connecticut, rely on commissions received from
third party vendors to help fund their Business Enterprise Programs.
Chairman Haley asked for members of the Committee to be on a
sub-committee to review the current BEP state regulations. Some of the
terminology in the regulations needs updating. The sub-committee will consist
of Keith Haley, Brandy Altergott and Frank Roberts.
The Transfer & Promotion Sub-Committee presented the list of
applicants which they recommend for approval to be included in the 2018
Transfer & Promotion List.
Motion made by Chad Farr to accept the recommendation of the Transfer
& Promotion Sub-Committee as presented.
Seconded by Amos Fatorma
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
The Town of East Lyme had issued a request for an Ice Cream/Food Vendor
for Samuel Peretz Park at Bridebrook. This location is near Rocky Neck State
Park. The manager of Rocky Neck was looking into the potential of running this
operation. A copy of the proposal was requested and received. The town was
notified of its requirements under Connecticut Statute 10-303.
Due to the quick turnaround time, the manager at Rocky Neck felt that it
would be better to approach this opportunity next year. It was noted that the
proposal states that the vending machines at the park will remain.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to waive the operation of the Ice
Cream/Food Cart but to retain the rights to the vending machines.
Seconded by Marc Dombkowski
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
The Federal Correctional Institution in Danbury requested our interest
in the operation of the vending machines at their location. The agency
previously issued a waiver to allow them to procure other services. That
contract is expiring and they are again seeking our interest. Under federal
regulations, the agency receives 30% of the commissions. In FY 17 this amounted
to almost $19,000.
Motion made by Chad Farr to waive the operation of the vending machines
at the Federal Correctional Institute in Danbury.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
The Passport to the Park Program was discussed. Funding for the state
parks will be enhanced through a $10 fee added to the registration of all motor
vehicles in Connecticut. This will allow
any car bearing a Connecticut marker plate to obtain free parking at any of the
state parks. The staffing and hours of operation are being returned to their
former levels. Our vending facility operators should anticipate an increase in business
as a result.
Under Agency matters, it was noted that the vending facility operators
of the Norwalk Community College and the New Britain Courthouse have advised of
their intent to leave the program.
BEP continues to receive referrals from Vocational Rehabilitation. One
client is currently being evaluated in Wethersfield.
The agency is waiting for information on how vending facility operators
are to register with the State Department of Public Health under the new health
code being adopted effective July 1, 2018.
Applications for the Field Representative position close today. The
process could take another two months until there is a hire.
Under Open Forum there was a discussion of use of suppliers at
facilities. There will be a follow up discussion with the BEP Supervisor to
provide clarification of this topic.
The date for the next meeting is June 5, 2018 at 4:00 p.m.
A motion was made by Brandy Altergott to adjourn.
Seconded by Frank Roberts
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
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Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB)
Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of the December 12, 2017 Quarterly Meeting
Attendance:
Committee:
Keith Haley, Frank Roberts, Brandy Altergott, Amos Fatorma, Rich
Braccia, Peter Vlandis, Marc Dombkowski
Bureau:
Brian Sigman, Andrew Norton, Ed Owens
A roll call of members in attendance was taken.
The minutes of the 9/16/17 and 10/18/17 were brought up for action.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to accept the minutes as presented.
Seconded by Marc Dombkowski
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
A budget update was given by Ed Owens. The carry over balance at the end
of the federal fiscal year was just under $1 million. This is similar to the
carryover from the prior fiscal year. The program did experience a decrease in
vending commission income with the reduction of attendant hours at the 7 rest
areas on I-84, I-91 and one on I-95. This reduction was just over $62,000
compared to annual commission earnings when the rest areas were open 24 hours
per day.
The rest area buildings currently are operational for the first shift
only.
In the coming years BEP is not anticipating funding from the Vocational
Rehabilitation Program. This is due to the major reduction in federal reallotment
funds. This past fiscal year BEP utilized $115,000 in federal Vocational
Rehabilitation funds.
A Field Representative will be retiring as of 1/1/18. The Bureau will be
requesting approval to refill this position. There is potential of an additional
field representative retirement in May. The Bureau will assess whether or not
to refill that position based on the budget status at that time.
Chairman Haley was asked to appoint a sub-committee to assist in the
review of the Regulations of State Agencies that govern the Business Enterprise
Program to identify areas in need of updating.
Under new business, the practice of charging for condiments was
discussed. The perception generated by charging for all condiments is creating
a negative image for the program. Strategies were discussed which would limit
the negative financial impact on the operation, if the practice of charging for
low cost condiments such as straws, napkins and ketchup packets was
discontinued. It was noted that not all individuals who utilize the condiments
are vending facility customers.
Motion made by Marc Dombkowski
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
The Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors in affirming good
customer relations supports the elimination of charging for low cost condiments
and utensils. Field Representatives shall discuss this motion with all vending facility
managers and initiate solutions which will minimize any negative impact on the vending
facility manager’s profits.
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Co-payments on medical insurance coverage were reviewed. There have been
changes to the amount of monthly co-payments due from state employees based on
whether they are unionized employees or non-union employees. Additionally,
there are different rates for unionized employees based on their date of hire. In
prior years there was only one rate for co-payments of monthly premiums and vending
facility managers were charged that rate. Pending additional guidance, for now the
Bureau will utilize the rate for unionized state employees based on date of
hire for the vending facility managers. There was a change in the co-payment
amount effective 10/01/17. Billings have been adjusted to reflect this change.
The following information from the federal report RSA-15 for the period
ending 9/30/17 was shared: Gross program sales - $5.25 million, Average vending
facility manager’s income - $37,621, Median income – $27,801, Number of vending
facilities – 35.
Under Agency Matters, the following transfers were noted.
With the passing of the vending facility manager at 450 Columbus Blvd.,
Hartford, the vending facility manager from 55 Elm St., Hartford transitioned
to 450 Columbus Blvd. The vending facility manager from 470 Capitol Ave.,
Hartford is moving to 55 Elm St. A former vending facility manager is returning
to take over 470 Capitol Avenue.
The Committee was reminded that there will be changes to the health code
effective 7/1/18 which will require all food establishments to register with
the State Department of Public Health.
It was noted that all field representative assignments have been updated
to reflect the January retirement.
No items were brought up in Open Forum
The date for the next meeting is 3/6/18 at 4:00 p.m.
A motion a motion was made by Brandy Altergott to adjourn.
Seconded by Frank Roberts
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
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Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB)
Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of the October 18, 2017 Special Meeting
Attendance:
Committee:
Keith Haley, Frank Roberts, Brandy Altergott, Amos Fatorma, Rich
Braccia, Peter Vlandis
Bureau:
Ed Owens
A roll call of members in attendance was taken.
This special meeting of the Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors was
called to review the Request for Proposal issued by the City of Hartford for a
food service provider for Goodwin Park.
The Committee discussed the content of the RFP and
Frank Roberts made the following motion:
To wave the operation of the restaurant at Goodwin Park in Hartford but
to retain the rights to any vending machine opportunities that may arise.
Seconded by: Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
As there was no further business on the agenda, a motion was made by Peter
Vlandis to adjourn.
Seconded by Frank Roberts
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting
adjourned at 4:25 p.m.
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Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB)
Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of the September 16, 2017 Annual Meeting
DRAFT
Attendance:
Committee:
Keith Haley, Frank Roberts, Marc Dombkowski, Brandy Altergott, Amos
Fatorma, Jim Ferguson, Stephen Hillyer
Managers:
Charles Cote, Chad Farr, Anthony
Ford, Dave Pelaggi, Peter Vlandis, Elise Zompanti
Bureau:
Ed Owens, Craig Bliven, Tina Rafala
A roll call of all present was taken with each manager stating the
facility they manage.
The minutes of the June 6, 2017 were brought up for action.
Motion made by Brandy Altergott to accept the minutes as presented.
Seconded by Frank Roberts
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Mr. Owens gave an overview of the Business Enterprise Program (BEP)
budget. There are still several unknowns. Without a state budget in
place, the bureau awaits news on whether the rest areas will be closing. This
will affect those located on I-84 and I-91 and North Stonington on I-95; 7
facilities in all. The operational hours
of the buildings at the rest areas had previously been reduced to first shift
only. There has been a 50 percent decrease in commissions realized from these
locations due to the reduced hours of operation.
This reduction does not affect the Merritt Parkway, Wilbur
Cross Parkway, and 1-95 rest areas.
Overall, FY 17 non-Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program income
was down by $20,000. In FY 18, the bureau started the first of 5 annual
payments of $50,000 for the opening of vending facilities at 450 Columbus Blvd.
This expense may be offset by the projected reduction of expenditures in the
categories of new facility openings and initial inventory, which are not
anticipated for FY 18. The managers’ insurance coverage increased $18,000 for
FY 18.
There is no news yet on the re-allotment of Federal Vocational
Rehabilitation dollars. The Business Enterprise Program utilized $150,000 of VR
funding in FY 17. This may not be available in FY 18.
Congressional bill HR 1990, proposing the commercialization of
rest areas, is a concern for the program nationally. Almost 400 managers
operate rest areas as their business. If passed into law, this could
dramatically impact the program. There would not only be the loss of these
entrepreneurial opportunities, but also reductions in income to the programs,
as many of those states have a set-aside.
Commercialization of the rest areas is also expected to be
in the budget that President Trump sends to Congress. It is expected to be a
part of the infrastructure improvement plan.
Under the topic of Healthy Vending Options, the bureau has
set a standard that all vending machines placed under the statewide vending
contract must have 30 percent healthy options. This standard became effective on
July 1, 2017.
Thirty percent is the level at which the vending industry notes
that healthier options may be offered and still allow the machine to be profitable.
The American Heart Association has sought Executive Orders
from some Governors to enact healthy vending policies. Recently, the state of
Louisiana enacted such an executive order. The executive order calls for “The
vending machine standard shall be consistent with or stronger than those
developed by the American Heart Association or by the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services/General Services Administration, or by the National Alliance
for Nutritional Activity.”
Vending facility managers need to be aware of what healthy
items they have on the menus and highlight them to their customers.
The existing program regulations were discussed. It
has been 30 years since the regulations were reviewed in their entirety. In
many places, they refer to terms which are now obsolete such as “Board,
Executive Director” and “Division of Industries.” Also, back then there were no
micro-markets.
The revision of the regulations is a lengthy process,
which starts with the selection of a sub-committee of the Statewide Committee
of Blind Vendors to work with the bureau on proposed changes. They are then
reviewed by Rehabilitation Services Administration for consistency to the
federal regulations.
With the election of the 2017-2018 Committee, the
bureau will ask the Chairman to appoint such a sub-committee.
A question has arisen as to whether fees associated with the
operation of a Point of Sale (POS) system are a business expense of the
facility or a program operational cost.
With the advancement to the Point of Sale units versus the traditional
cash register, there are fees associated with the POS system which are not incurred
with a cash register. A POS system requires the use of software, which has an
annual licensing fee for its use and maintenance. This fee is $595 per
register. The facility in question has three registers, representing an annual
cost of $1,770.
This appears to be similar to the software fees associated
with micro-markets. This Committee had previously addressed the issue of
micro-markets fees and motioned it was an operational fee of the business. The
manager of the operation in question has paid the POS fees but is seeking an
opinion from the Committee as to whether they see this as a business expense or
a program expense.
Motion made by Brandy Altergott that fees associated with the operation
of a Point of Sale System are to be a business expense of the facility.
Seconded by Marc Dombkowski
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Facility repairs were discussed. Last year the bureau spent
$110,000 on repairs. When an invoice is received at the bureau for processing,
the field representative is to call the manager and verify the number of hours
being billed. Under the current contract with Commercial, travel time to and
from the facility is not to be charged. However, if the technician has to go to
pick up a part, that is chargeable time. The bureau is asking all managers to
document the times spent on a repair so that the bureau can confirm the hours
billed. This covers all companies, not
just Commercial. Repairs may not always be the best option. It may not be cost
effective to repair older units. This will be based on the condition and repair
history of the unit. If a decision is made to replace the existing unit, it
will need to remain on site until the surplus process is complete. The building manager may be able to offer an
alternate spot for short term storage. All decisions on whether to repair or
replace will be done on a case by case basis.
The National Federation of the Blind Entrepreneur Initiative
(NFBEI) offers technical assistance on the Randolph-Sheppard Program. The
renewal of the Committee’s membership will be coming up soon. As a smaller
state, BESB pays half the amount of a larger state. Last year the fee was $1,750. That could change
slightly for this year. Last year, the Committee motioned to continue its
membership. The members were asked if the Committee wishes to continue its
membership for the coming year.
Chairman Haley spoke positively about the membership in the
NFBEI.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to renew membership in the National
Federation of the Blind Entrepreneur Initiative and to invite a member of NFBEI
to present at the next annual meeting.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
In the category of BEP staffing, it was announced that Field
Representative John Faenza will be retiring at the end of December. Based on
the budget concerns, the bureau will not be seeking a replacement at this time.
Staff has been advised of facility reassignments that will be starting in January.
The vacation policy was discussed. When the vacation policy
was first introduced, BESB had 7 field representatives. With Mr. Faenza’s retirement there will be
only 4 remaining. It may become difficult to provide field representative
facility coverage for vacations of the facility managers. The operational needs
of the program must first be addressed. This will explained further when the
vacation notification process letter is sent out in December.
Dates for 2018 Statewide Committee of Blind Vendors meetings
were reviewed. The dates proposed were
Tues. 3/6/18, Tues. 6/5/18, Sat. 9/15/18 and Tues. 12/4/18.
Motion made by Frank Roberts that the dates of the 2018 will be March 6th,
June 5th, December 4th at 4:00 pm. and September 15 at
9:30 a.m.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
A site survey of The New Haven Library was reviewed. The
library had advised BESB of their plans to establish a food service at 153 Elm
Street. Nick Palermo did a site survey which was emailed to the Committee
members. Concerns noted were the off-site food preparation, costs, and heavy
competition.
BESB currently has a
soda and snack machine, with average sales of $60.00 per month for each machine.
These machines are in the employee lounge.
Motion made by Brandy Altergott to waive the operation of the proposed
snack bar facility at the New Haven Library but to retain our rights to the
vending machines at this location.
Seconded by Amos Fatorma
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Separately, the Committee suggested that the Library be approached to
see if the machines could be relocated to a public area.
September 30th is the close of the federal fiscal year. BESB
staff will be working on the RSA-15 federal report. All business reports for
September and prior months must be received in October.
Mr. Owens noted that there are currently no facility
transfers under consideration. Mr. Owens has spoken to Vocational
Rehabilitation staff, seeking candidates who would like to consider the program
as an option. The Gift Shop at DOT will be relocated across the hall as DOT
needs to take over the current location in their expansion of the Highway Unit.
DOT is assuming the costs of this move.
Committee elections were held. The ballot was reviewed and
it was asked if there were any additional nominations from the floor. The
additional nomination was added to the ballot. All managers were instructed to
vote for only three candidates. The top three vote recipients would be the
regular committee members joining the four who remain to serve the second year
of their terms. The fourth and fifth highest vote recipients will be first and
second alternates.
A training session was given on the upcoming changes in the
Health Code.
Public Act 17-93 -- An Act Concerning the Department of Public
Health’s (DPH) Recommendations Regarding Adoption of a Model Food Code calls
for the adoption of the FDA Food Code beginning July 1, 2018.
Some of the points reviewed included:
-- Requirements
for registration with the DPH before a permit can be issued by local authorities.
-- Focus
on prevention.
-- Revisions
to the health code every 4 years with supplements in between.
-- Danger
Zone Temperatures: 41 – 135 degrees.
-- Air
Temperatures: 33 – 37 degrees.
-- Class
2-4 must have a Certified Food manager.
-- Corrections
can be made at the time of the inspection.
-- No
numeric score on inspection. Letter based.
-- Class
C misdemeanor for failure to cooperate during a food –borne outbreak.
-- ServSafe
must be current.
Under the agenda item of Open Forum, it was noted by Mr.
Owens that each manager has received a summary of their inventory balances. Some
managers have agreed to apply their entire commission payments to their balances.
They have signed an agreement which acknowledges that it is taxable income and it
is to be entered on their business reports.
While this is appropriate in some cases, it may cause a
hardship to apply a full commission payment to inventory balances in other
instances where the facility income is low. Managers may elect to assign a
portion of their commissions towards their inventory responsibility. A
percentage can be inserted into the agreement.
Date of the next meeting is December 5, 2017 at 4:30 p.m.
All members on the ballot were elected to the Committee. As
some ballots were electronically sent, the determination of who would be the
regular and alternate members was made at the conclusion of the meeting.
Chairman Haley assisted in the oversight of the ballot counting.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to adjourn.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 11:30 a.m.
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Statewide
Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of
the June 6, 2017 – 4:30 p.m.
Quarterly Meeting
Attendance:
Committee:
Keith Haley Rich
Braccia Frank Roberts
Brandy Altergott Amos Fatorma Jim Ferguson
Bureau:
Brian Sigman Ed Owens Nick
Faenza
Everyone introduced themselves.
The minutes of the 3/7/17 and 5/18/17 were brought up for action.
Motion made by Rich Braccia to accept the minutes as presented.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 4, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Vote count is 4 as two members joined the call after the motion was
voted on.
Chairman Hailey updated the Committee on his trip to Washington, DC to
attend the Randolph-Sheppard Fly-In. Meetings were set up with Congressional
Representatives to discuss issues
affecting the program. The topics included the award of contracts at Defense
Facilities to Ability One without the recognition of the Randolph-Sheppard
priority; the lack of opportunities offered by the Veterans’ Administration to Randolph-Sheppard;
and the proposed commercialization of the interstate rest areas.
The participants of the fly-in sought greater communication between the
Department of Defense and the Veterans’ Administration with the Department of
Education which oversees the Randolph-Sheppard Program.
On the topic of the commercialization of the rest areas, the facts were
presented of how this proposed change would negatively affect entrepreneurs who
are blind as well as many other small businesses located in the vicinity of the
rest areas. The Committee members thanked Chairman Hailey for his involvement in
this important effort.
Ed Owens stated that the recently released Presidential budget includes
an allowance for the commercialization of the rest areas.
Mr. Owens reported that the vending sponsorship payment from Coca-Cola
was received. Vocational Rehabilitation, which has been a source of funding support
to the BEP has had a budget rescission and funding is very tight. The
Legislature will be going into special session to address the state budget for
FY18.
Mr. Owens advised the Committee that Coca-Cola, as permitted in their contract,
is requesting a 2% increase in the cost of product sold to BEP facilities. A
price sheet with the specifics has been requested. The Department of
Administrative Services is handling this request. New prices will take effect
in July.
Mr. Owens also spoke of the partnership with the Connecticut Department of
Public Health (DPH) to develop healthy recipes for over the counter facilities.
BESB has already set the standard with vending partners to have 30% of items
offered in vending machines to be in the healthy options category.
BESB’s cooperation with DPH dates back several years. This commitment
has been recognized and BESB staff were invited to participate in a recent webinar
with the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials in a
presentation of how to engage agencies in other states which oversee the
Randolph-Sheppard Program to become a partner in the healthy choices initiative.
Mr. Owens spoke of the open Insurance Enrollment period. The options planner
was sent to all of the facility managers and a new co-pay rate will begin as of
July.
Motion made by Rich Braccia to adjourn.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 4:55 p.m.
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Statewide
Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of
the May 18, 2017 – 4:00 p.m.
Conference Call
Attendance: Committee:
Keith Haley Marc
Dombkowski Frank Roberts
Zac Shaham
Agency:
Brian Sigman Andrew Norton Ed Owens
This meeting was called to review the waiver previously issued to the
New Haven Parking Authority for the concession operations at Union Station due
to expire on June 30, 2017.
After a review of the status, the following motion was made.
Motion made by Marc Dombkowski to waive the concession operation at
Union Station, New Haven but to retain our rights to all vending machines.
Seconded by Frank Roberts
Vote: Yes – 4, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Chairman Haley then reviewed the efforts made in contacting state legislators
to advise them of the Committee’s position on the budget proposal which would
close the rest areas.
The topic of proposed federal legislation which would allow for the
commercialization of the highway rest areas was also discussed. Chairman Haley
will be going to Washington, DC to discuss with members of Congress the potential
impact this proposed legislation would have on the Randolph-Sheppard program.
He will update the Committee at their June meeting.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to adjourn
Seconded by Marc Dombkowski
Vote: Yes – 4, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 4:40 p.m.
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Statewide
Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of
the March 7, 2017 – 4:30 p.m.
Quarterly Meeting
Attendance: Committee:
Keith Haley Marc
Dombkowski Zac Shaham
Amos Fatorma Frank Roberts Jim Ferguson
Brandy Altergott Rich Braccia
Agency:
Brian Sigman Andrew Norton Ed
Owens
Nick Faenza
Everyone introduced themselves.
The minutes of the 1/10/17 and 2/8/17 were brought up for action.
Motion made by Brandy Altergott to accept the minutes as presented.
Seconded by Amos Fatorma
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
The Transfer & Promotion sub-committee presented their
recommendations to the full committee for action. Chairman Hailey noted that
the sub-committee followed the criterion as stated in the regulations regarding
eligibility for transfer or promotion.
Motion made by Marc Dombkowski to accept the recommendations of the
Transfer & Promotion sub-committee as presented.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
A budget update was given. Mr. Sigman advised that a staff member formerly
in BEP has been transferred to Adult Services, as the primary service
coordination and advocacy needs of the clients served by this employee have
changed from vocational to more of an independent living focus over the years.
All thing remaining equal the current income is projected to cover program
expenses. The Committee was advised that this is a very tight budget year.
Two site survey requests were reviewed by the Committee. The first is a
request by the Town of Glastonbury for a Vending Truck at Riverfront Park. The
second request was for the establishment of a micro-market at New Britain City
Hall.
The Committee addressed both locations in the following motion:
Motion made by Rich Braccia to waive the Food Cart Operation at
Riverfront Park in Glastonbury and also waive the Micro-Market Facility at New
Britain City Hall.
Seconded by Marc Dombkowski
Vote: Yes – 7, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Andrew Norton advised the Committee of Senate Bill 796, an effort to
incorporate “person first” language throughout existing statutes where there
are references to individuals with disabilities.
Mr. Norton also indicated that guidance from the Governor’s Legal
Counsel has been obtained, affirming the Agency’s position that no legal
requirement exists for the Agency to collect a three percent health insurance
increase from the BEP Managers, since these individuals are not state employees
and do not fall under the terms of the SEBAC agreement.
Results of the Request for Proposals (RFP) issued by the Department of
Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to seek other concessionaires at
State Parks were reviewed. DEEP did receive one response, suggesting food
trucks for various locations, including the locations where DORS operates
concessions. DEEP did note that this plan could be easily implemented at parks
in which DORS does not operate a concession; however at locations where DORS does
have facilities, the statutes would need to be amended.
Mr. Owens gave a summation of the RSA-15 figures for FFY 16. Program-wide sales were $5.6 million. BEP
Manager’s average income was $39,185. Program-wide, managers employed 80 individuals.
Program spending increased by $564,314 with the opening of two new facilities.
The Committee was advised that the vending contractor has agreed to the
implementation of a healthy vending initiative in all vending machines program-wide.
The initiative will include clear signage of the healthy selections and each
vending machine will offer 30 percent selections that meet healthy vending
product criteria.
It was noted that going forward all agendas and minutes of the Statewide
Committee of Blind Vendors meetings will be posted on the Secretary of State’s
web site. Agendas must be posted at least one week in advance.
A question was asked if managers are receiving requests to use
environmentally friendly containers. There have been some requests made by
patrons at certain locations. BEP staff is looking into options. Initial research
has shown that environmentally friendly containers have higher costs and are
less secure in holding food. More research will be done.
It was noted that the current budget proposal calls for the closing of
the 7 rest areas that are a part of the vending contract.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to adjourn.
Seconded by Marc Dombkowski
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 5:35 p.m.
*******************************************************************
Statewide
Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of the
February 8, 2017 – 4:00
Conference Call
Attendance: Committee:
Keith Haley Marc
Dombkowski Frank Roberts
Brandy Altergott Jim Ferguson
Agency:
Ed Owens
This meeting was called to review multiple site surveys. The Committee
requested the review of all operations to be considered in one motion.
The first location was Minnechaug Golf Course in Glastonbury. This is a
restaurant located on a 9 hole golf course in a residential section of
Glastonbury. While the course is open April through December the town is
looking to have the restaurant open year round.
The Fairfield locations were then reviewed. They include: Marine Fuel
Dock Concession, Lake Mohegan, Jennings Beach and the Penfield Concessions.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to waive Minnechaug Golf Course, Fairfield
Marine Fuel Dock Concession, Lake Mohegan, Jennings Beach and the Penfield
Concessions.
Seconded by Marc Dombkowski
Vote: Yes – 5, No – 0, Abstained – 0
The establishment of a Transfer and Promotion Sub-Committee was
discussed. Chairman Haley will appoint the members who will review the
applications received in January.
Keith advised of the opening on the State Rehabilitation Council and the
potential for a BEP Manager who is an employer to serve on the Committee. He
felt that while he would like to serve, his business needs would not permit him
to. Marc Dombkowski offered to have his name submitted to serve.
The status of the park locations was discussed. Jim Ferguson stated that
he not yet received his contract for the 2017 season. Ed stated that he had
requested an update on the status and will follow up. All three park managers
were on the call and they requested if we could take a look at their contracts
and identify if we see any changes. Ed asked if they received their contracts
in electronic format. They said that they did not. They only receive it in
print. Ed stated that he will request that they also receive it in electronic
format so it will be accessible and they could then share with us.
There was no further business to consider for this conference call
Motion made by Frank Roberts to adjourn.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 5, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 5:00
*************************************************************
Statewide
Committee of Blind Vendors
Minutes of the
January 10, 2017 – 4:00
Conference Call
Attendance: Committee:
Keith Haley Marc
Dombkowski Zac Shaham
Frank Roberts Brandy
Altergott Jim Ferguson
Agency:
Ed Owens
This meeting was called to review two site surveys. The first was a
request from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for seasonal
food service at Burr Pond, Lake Waramaug and Mt. Tom State Park. The Committee
reviewed the information and discussed that we had previously operated Lake
Waramaug.
Motion made by Frank Roberts to waive the locations at Burr Pond, Lake
Waramaug and Mt. Tom State Park.
Seconded by Brandy Altergott
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
The second location was the Griffith E. Harris Golf Course in Greenwich.
The Committee considered the location and transportation, the need for a liquor
license, the availability of a manager and the start-up cost.
Motion made by Marc Dombkowski to waive the Griffith E. Harris Golf
Course in Greenwich
Seconded by Frank Roberts
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
There was no further business to consider for this conference call
Motion made by Brandy Altergott to adjourn.
Seconded by Frank Roberts
Vote: Yes – 6, No – 0, Abstained – 0
Meeting adjourned at 4:30
Content Last Modified on 4/13/2018 10:11:38 AM