Minutes for the 06-14-05 MH/DD Advisory Board Meeting

Chair, Jackie Gray called the June meeting to order at 1:20 p.m. at the City Centre Board Room.

Members present: Jill Eaton, Rich Byers, Herb Rich, Anne Vance, Carol Fonua Jackie Gray, Alicia Krough, Michelle Allen, Linda White

Members absent: Ron Goecke, Gordie Johnson, John Soorholtz, Allen Fagerlund, Pat Ross, John McPherson, Laura Schinnow, Deb Williams, Jacque Osgood, Lisa Soder

Guests present: Representative Mark Smith

1. Introductions: Introductions were made by Board members present to our guest, Representative Mark Smith.
2. Program – Representative Mark Smith:  Mark Smith highlighted on issues that transpired during the 2005 legislative session. Discussion on the letter sent to the Marshall County Board of Supervisors regarding the Growth Dollars that Marshall County could receive if our levy was over 70% of the maximum allowed and if our fund balance is under 25%. Jill reported that she and the Board met along with Auditor Lee Searle and explored the details and the County will continue to review. Jill discussed with Mark that the levy maximum was set when we had the Marshall County Care Facility open and is artificially high.

   A major piece of legislation that Mark was very involved in is the new Iowa Cares (Medicaid expansion) Program which will replace the current State Quota Paper Program at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. It could add about 30,000 people who previously did not qualify for Medicaid to a new form of the program called Iowa Cares that will have premiums based on income, co-pays and incentives to participate in preventive care and more healthful lifestyles. Mark reported that a legislative review committee has been established to monitor the program. Please contact Mark with any questions. He can be reached at 641-750-9278

   Mark also reported that a limited mental health parity bill was passed and signed by Governor Vilsak.

3. Agency Updates: Carol Fonua, DHS Case Management, reported that a new Case Manager, Kristine Fisher, will be added to the Marshalltown staff effective June 20th.

   Michelle Allen (Adults, Inc.) reiterated to Board members of Adult Inc.’s new name change to North Star Community Services effective July 1st. Staff consists of 4 Service Coordinators, and 16 full-time and part-time direct care staff.

   Rich Byers (MIW) is currently working with 68 consumers. MIW employs 21 full-time staff and also employs 14 flex time college students. Rich is seeking a Service Support Coordinator and is accepting applications.

   Anne Vance (CIRSI) is assisting 160 consumers. Staff consists of 105 full-time employees and 30-40 part-time staff. A new HCBS billing system has been implemented. The on-site adult day care survey was exceptionally good.

   Jill Eaton (CPC) reports that Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation has issued an establishment grant for supportive employment. This will allow a new provider to come into Marshall County to provide job development/ job placement and job coaching. Our current provider, Tama County Employment Options ended services May 31st. Hopefully by September 1st a new provider will be available allowing 10-15 consumers to benefit from this.

   InfoNet was passed out outlining a few of the accomplishment made in the legislature this year.

   Jill reported that the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage is a new program being implemented. A handout was provided and Jill has more information available for those who are interested.

   Another handout passed out was the 2-1-1 Human Service Resource information received at the Ames Area Advisory Board. This will be a new Web based system and hopefully will be a great community based resource.

   Jill reminded Board members of the consumer conference “Let the sun shine on your recovery” to be held Monday July 25th through Wednesday July 27th in Marshalltown. For any consumer interested in going, Stipends from the State should be applied for first. CPC will also help with funding.

   Future meeting dates are listed below and locations will be announced on the agendas when mailed.

   Meeting adjourned at 2:20 P.M.

   Future Meeting Dates: November 8, 2005