FLORIDA REHABILITATION COUNCIL FOR THE BLIND
PUBLIC FORUM
The Terrace Hotel

329 East. Main Street
Lakeland, Florida  33801
October 26, 2017

Chairwoman Patricia Lipovsky called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. (ET) with the Pledge of Allegiance and opening comments.

Council Members Present:
Patricia Lipovsky, Robert Kelly, Paul Edwards, Lenora Marten, Bruce Miles, Robert Doyle

Council Members Absent:
Howard Bell, Nicole Attong

Council Staff:
Selena Sickler

DBS Staff:
Bridget Giles, Nancy Brown, Mireya Hernandez, Ana St. Fort

Three Consumers Attended

First Consumer Comment

• Expressed appreciation for the Talking Books and BARD.

Second Consumer Comment

• Expressed appreciation for the services received from DBS and the Lighthouse for the Blind Winter Haven.

Third Consumer Comment

• Expressed appreciation for a connection with DBS and Lighthouse for the Blind Winter Haven specifically in Polk County. 

The members of the public participated in a discussion regarding areas of concern.  One consumer expressed concern over the lack of communication after his cased was closed. He stated that once the issue was brought to the attention of DBS, there was follow-up the next time he received services.

Director Doyle stated there was opportunity to improve the process of communication regarding the Client Satisfaction Survey and follow up after services have been received.

Director Doyle stated DBS is working on agreement with VFO to expand the availability of JAWS software.

Director Doyle stated that preliminary discussions of questions were being considered for the needs assessment.  He stated the focus going forward needed to be on students and youth. 

Each council member presented a short bio to the public.

The public forum adjourned at 6:00 p.m.