FLORIDA REHABILITATION COUNCIL FOR THE BLIND
PUBLIC FORUM

Hilton Miami Airport
5101 Blue Lagoon Drive, Miami, FL
October 18, 2018, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Chairman Kelly called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call.

Council Members Present:
Mikey Wiseman, Nicole Attong, Robert Kelly, Robert Doyle, Bruce Miles, Paul Kurtz, Louise Peyton, Denise Valkema, Paul Edwards

Council Members via Phone:
Patricia Lipovsky

Council Members Absent:
Rose Conry, Sylvia Stinson-Perez, Howard Bell

Council Staff:
Tami Oates

DBS Staff
Bridget Giles, Robin Goldstone Garcia, Juan Diaz

Chairman Robert Kelly welcomed everyone to the forum.  He defined the job of the council and its function. Chairman Kelly asked for introductions from people on the phone and the audience.

Eleven Consumers Commented

First speaker on the phone stated she had received services from DBS and was able to get a job.

Second speaker on the phone thanked DBS for the counselors who helped her get her GED.

Third speaker on the phone stated that she had a good experience with DBS. She suggested more staff was needed in the district office to answer the phone.

Fourth speaker on the phone stated her appreciation for the services she received from DBS and the Miami Lighthouse. 

Fifth speaker from the audience thanked DBS for the services he received.  He stated more services were needed for the elderly.

Sixth speaker stated she enjoys working with DBS.

Seventh speaker from the audience would like to get a job working with people. 

Eighth speaker from the audience asked if DBS would repair her CCTV.  Director Doyle stated each case is different and would depend on which program the client is involved in.  The consumer stated she had received a letter congratulating her on her employment and had not been employed.  DBS will follow up.

Ninth speaker from the audience requested help with getting services.  Director Doyle will follow up after the public forum.

Tenth speaker from the audience stated his appreciation for the services received from DBS and the Miami Lighthouse.

Speaker five asked about services for consumers from other countries.  Director Doyle stated that DBS offers services to individuals coming into the states.

Speaker 2 on the phone asked about what jobs were available for blind people.  Paul stated that five people on the FRCB are blind and have worked all their life.

Eleventh speaker from the audience asked why it takes so long for students to receive equipment for school.  Director Doyle stated it should not take that long. 

The public forum adjourned at 6:00 p.m