WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:03.920 Plastic is very bad, and I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:03.920 --> 00:00:07.220 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:07.220 --> 00:00:10.120 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:10.120 --> 00:00:13.300 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:13.300 --> 00:00:17.260 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:17.260 --> 00:00:19.940 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:19.940 --> 00:00:23.140 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:23.140 --> 00:00:26.880 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:26.880 --> 00:00:30.080 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:30.080 --> 00:00:33.040 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:33.040 --> 00:00:36.480 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:36.480 --> 00:00:40.240 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:40.240 --> 00:00:43.760 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:43.760 --> 00:00:46.960 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:46.960 --> 00:00:50.160 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:50.160 --> 00:00:53.440 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:53.440 --> 00:00:56.800 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:56.800 --> 00:00:59.680 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:00:59.680 --> 00:01:02.720 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:02.720 --> 00:01:05.760 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:05.760 --> 00:01:08.880 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:08.880 --> 00:01:11.840 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:11.840 --> 00:01:14.880 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:14.880 --> 00:01:18.000 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:18.000 --> 00:01:21.040 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:21.040 --> 00:01:24.000 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:24.000 --> 00:01:27.200 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:27.200 --> 00:01:30.400 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:30.400 --> 00:01:33.680 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:33.680 --> 00:01:36.960 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:36.960 --> 00:01:40.160 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:40.160 --> 00:01:43.280 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:43.280 --> 00:01:46.240 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:46.240 --> 00:01:49.360 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:49.360 --> 00:01:52.160 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:52.160 --> 00:01:55.360 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:55.360 --> 00:01:58.240 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:01:58.240 --> 00:02:01.360 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:01.360 --> 00:02:04.320 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:04.320 --> 00:02:07.200 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:07.200 --> 00:02:10.240 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:10.240 --> 00:02:13.200 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:13.200 --> 00:02:16.160 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:16.160 --> 00:02:19.200 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:19.200 --> 00:02:22.240 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:22.240 --> 00:02:25.280 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:25.280 --> 00:02:28.160 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:28.160 --> 00:02:31.120 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:31.120 --> 00:02:34.240 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:34.240 --> 00:02:37.280 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:37.280 --> 00:02:40.240 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:40.240 --> 00:02:43.280 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:43.280 --> 00:02:46.320 I'm going to see different kinds of things. 00:02:46.320 --> 00:02:49.360 Say you don't have the thing that you need, 00:02:49.360 --> 00:02:51.360 we know where a lot of things are. 00:02:51.360 --> 00:02:54.400 We find the things and we help people work together. 00:02:54.400 --> 00:02:56.400 What I say a lot is I help people talk, 00:02:56.400 --> 00:02:58.400 I help people collaborate, I help people come together, 00:02:58.400 --> 00:03:01.360 especially inside the city of Denton. 00:03:01.360 --> 00:03:04.400 With this cycle, with preparedness, 00:03:04.400 --> 00:03:06.400 some of the things we do, 00:03:06.400 --> 00:03:08.400 we develop emergency plans, 00:03:08.400 --> 00:03:10.400 we conduct risk assessments, 00:03:10.400 --> 00:03:12.400 we establish communication protocols, 00:03:12.400 --> 00:03:14.400 we train emergency personnel, 00:03:14.400 --> 00:03:16.400 and public education campaigns. 00:03:16.400 --> 00:03:18.400 The objective there is to enhance 00:03:18.400 --> 00:03:21.360 the community's ability to respond effectively 00:03:21.360 --> 00:03:23.360 before an emergency occurs. 00:03:23.360 --> 00:03:25.360 That's that preparation before. 00:03:25.360 --> 00:03:29.360 In response, this is where you see us a lot, 00:03:29.360 --> 00:03:32.400 but it's a very tiny portion of what we do. 00:03:32.400 --> 00:03:34.400 We mobilize emergency personnel, 00:03:34.400 --> 00:03:36.400 we deploy resources, 00:03:36.400 --> 00:03:38.400 we implement emergency plans, 00:03:38.400 --> 00:03:40.400 we coordinate with agencies and organizations. 00:03:40.400 --> 00:03:42.400 The objective there is to save lives, 00:03:42.400 --> 00:03:46.400 protect property, and stabilize the situation in that order. 00:03:46.400 --> 00:03:48.400 Our primary objective is always saving lives, 00:03:48.400 --> 00:03:50.400 then protecting property, 00:03:50.400 --> 00:03:52.400 and then stabilizing the situation. 00:03:52.400 --> 00:03:54.400 Then we move into recovery. 00:03:54.400 --> 00:03:56.400 After a disaster occurs, 00:03:56.400 --> 00:03:58.400 we'll conduct damage assessments, 00:03:58.400 --> 00:04:02.400 provide assistance to affected individuals and businesses, 00:04:02.400 --> 00:04:04.400 repairing infrastructure, 00:04:04.400 --> 00:04:06.400 restoring essential services. 00:04:06.400 --> 00:04:08.400 Again, the objective there is to restore 00:04:08.400 --> 00:04:10.400 affected communities to their pre-disaster conditions 00:04:10.400 --> 00:04:12.400 or better. 00:04:12.400 --> 00:04:14.400 Depending on the disaster, 00:04:14.400 --> 00:04:16.400 this can take a few weeks to months or years. 00:04:16.400 --> 00:04:18.400 Katrina still is in the recovery phase, 00:04:18.400 --> 00:04:20.400 Hurricane Ian is still in the recovery phase, 00:04:20.400 --> 00:04:22.400 so it just depends on the disaster. 00:04:22.400 --> 00:04:24.400 Katrina is still in recovery? 00:04:24.400 --> 00:04:26.400 Yes. 00:04:26.400 --> 00:04:28.400 Technically, it's still in recovery. 00:04:28.400 --> 00:04:32.400 The community has not gone back to the pre-disaster state, 00:04:32.400 --> 00:04:36.400 so it's considered to be still in recovery. 00:04:36.400 --> 00:04:38.400 And then mitigation. 00:04:38.400 --> 00:04:42.400 This is where we implement building codes and zoning regulations. 00:04:42.400 --> 00:04:44.400 We don't implement them, 00:04:44.400 --> 00:04:46.400 but we work with cities and organizations 00:04:46.400 --> 00:04:50.400 to make sure that they're bettering. 00:04:50.400 --> 00:04:52.400 Especially when you think about floodplains, 00:04:52.400 --> 00:04:56.400 we want to make sure those building codes are better 00:04:56.400 --> 00:04:58.400 to prevent those disasters. 00:04:58.400 --> 00:05:00.400 We invest in infrastructure improvements, 00:05:00.400 --> 00:05:04.400 or we help find grants to help invest in infrastructure improvements. 00:05:04.400 --> 00:05:06.400 We conduct hazard mitigation projects. 00:05:06.400 --> 00:05:10.400 We promote community preparedness and education. 00:05:10.400 --> 00:05:12.400 And again, this is to reduce the risk 00:05:12.400 --> 00:05:14.400 and impact of future disasters. 00:05:14.400 --> 00:05:16.400 We know they're going to happen, 00:05:16.400 --> 00:05:18.400 so how do we mitigate those disasters? 00:05:18.400 --> 00:05:20.400 So how does E.M. help those with disabilities? 00:05:20.400 --> 00:05:22.400 First of all, they hired me. 00:05:22.400 --> 00:05:24.400 So my background, 00:05:24.400 --> 00:05:26.400 I worked for the American Red Cross. 00:05:26.400 --> 00:05:28.400 In the past, I still volunteer with them. 00:05:28.400 --> 00:05:30.400 My primary focus was reunification. 00:05:30.400 --> 00:05:32.400 I deployed to several deployments across the country, 00:05:32.400 --> 00:05:34.400 including Hurricane Ian. 00:05:34.400 --> 00:05:37.400 I went there for three weeks, held out after. 00:05:37.400 --> 00:05:39.400 I've done the Allen Outlet Mall shooting. 00:05:39.400 --> 00:05:42.400 I've worked with the FBI for their family assistance center. 00:05:42.400 --> 00:05:45.400 I've opened countless shelters in the DFW area. 00:05:45.400 --> 00:05:48.400 And I was also on the disability integration team. 00:05:48.400 --> 00:05:53.400 So my primary focus was to make sure that the shelters that we opened 00:05:53.400 --> 00:05:57.400 were inclusive to those with disabilities, 00:05:57.400 --> 00:05:59.400 functional, and access needs. 00:05:59.400 --> 00:06:02.400 So the primary reason I was hired 00:06:02.400 --> 00:06:04.400 was sheltering. 00:06:04.400 --> 00:06:06.400 So to beef up the city of Ditton's sheltering, 00:06:06.400 --> 00:06:10.400 make sure that we're ready to go in case a disaster strikes. 00:06:10.400 --> 00:06:13.400 When I worked for the Red Cross, I was a disaster program manager, 00:06:13.400 --> 00:06:15.400 and I covered Tarrant County. 00:06:15.400 --> 00:06:18.400 And what I would tell them is, 00:06:18.400 --> 00:06:22.400 since COVID, volunteering has gone down a lot. 00:06:22.400 --> 00:06:25.400 And so the best that the Red Cross could do was open five. 00:06:25.400 --> 00:06:28.400 If there was a widespread disaster across the Metroplex, 00:06:28.400 --> 00:06:33.400 no notice disaster, it would probably be like a string of tornadoes. 00:06:33.400 --> 00:06:36.400 The best that the Red Cross could do would be to open five shelters 00:06:36.400 --> 00:06:39.400 across the Metroplex. 00:06:39.400 --> 00:06:42.400 And honestly, that would probably be two in Fort Worth, 00:06:42.400 --> 00:06:44.400 one in Arlington, two in Dallas. 00:06:44.400 --> 00:06:47.400 And so these smaller communities, I would work with them like, 00:06:47.400 --> 00:06:48.400 how can we prepare you? 00:06:48.400 --> 00:06:50.400 How can we make sure you're ready to go? 00:06:50.400 --> 00:06:52.400 Because I know that we, as the Red Cross, 00:06:52.400 --> 00:06:55.400 do not have the capability to serve every single community, 00:06:55.400 --> 00:06:57.400 because we just don't have the resources. 00:06:57.400 --> 00:07:01.400 So with the City of Fort Worth, I worked with them. 00:07:01.400 --> 00:07:05.400 I trained all their staff in sheltering with the expectation of, 00:07:05.400 --> 00:07:09.400 if you can run it for 72 hours, we'll get you the supplies, 00:07:09.400 --> 00:07:11.400 we'll get you the food, we'll get you the cots. 00:07:11.400 --> 00:07:13.400 If you can run it for 72 hours, 00:07:13.400 --> 00:07:16.400 by 72 hours the Red Cross can have people from all over the country here. 00:07:16.400 --> 00:07:19.400 But can you sustain it for 72 hours? 00:07:19.400 --> 00:07:22.400 So that's my primary goal with the City of Denton. 00:07:22.400 --> 00:07:25.400 Once Bob gets back, I can focus on that. 00:07:25.400 --> 00:07:27.400 Right now I'm doing his job in mine. 00:07:27.400 --> 00:07:30.400 But that is my primary goal of where I'm trying to get Denton to, 00:07:30.400 --> 00:07:34.400 is can we sustain, can we shelter our community for 72 hours? 00:07:34.400 --> 00:07:38.400 So my primary focus was sheltering and then public education. 00:07:38.400 --> 00:07:42.400 I have been able to do a lot of public education speaking, 00:07:42.400 --> 00:07:47.400 and so that's kind of what my focus will be once he comes back, 00:07:47.400 --> 00:07:50.400 is doing a lot of public education, a lot of outreach. 00:07:50.400 --> 00:07:53.400 So educating the public. 00:07:53.400 --> 00:07:56.400 So some of the things that we do is we help nursing homes 00:07:56.400 --> 00:08:00.400 and full-time care facilities with education and planning assumptions. 00:08:00.400 --> 00:08:04.400 I presented at the Texas Advocates Conference in July of last year 00:08:04.400 --> 00:08:07.400 for about 120 people over two sessions, 00:08:07.400 --> 00:08:11.400 and I worked with Denton State School with their hazard vulnerability assessment, 00:08:11.400 --> 00:08:14.400 and that's just in the last six months while doing two jobs, 00:08:14.400 --> 00:08:18.400 so I'm really excited to be able to jump full-time into this. 00:08:18.400 --> 00:08:22.400 And then one thing that I don't know if you all guys know a lot about is, 00:08:22.400 --> 00:08:24.400 this is the next project I'm working on is STEER, 00:08:24.400 --> 00:08:27.400 which is State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry. 00:08:27.400 --> 00:08:31.400 So it's a free registry that provides local emergency planners 00:08:31.400 --> 00:08:35.400 and responders with additional information about the needs in their community. 00:08:35.400 --> 00:08:39.400 And so we have 208 people registered within the city of Denton, 00:08:39.400 --> 00:08:42.400 and those who are registered are people with disabilities, 00:08:42.400 --> 00:08:45.400 they're medically fragile, access and functional needs, 00:08:45.400 --> 00:08:48.400 limited mobility or communication barriers, 00:08:48.400 --> 00:08:51.400 require medical assistance during an emergency event, 00:08:51.400 --> 00:08:55.400 transportation assistance or personal care assistance. 00:08:55.400 --> 00:09:00.400 So with this registry, not only are we able to plan 00:09:00.400 --> 00:09:04.400 and make planning assumptions about where are the most vulnerable parts of our community, 00:09:04.400 --> 00:09:06.400 where do we need to focus, 00:09:06.400 --> 00:09:12.400 but with the last year's legislative session, Senate or sorry, 00:09:12.400 --> 00:09:17.400 Senate bill or state bill, 968 was passed, which requires wellness checks. 00:09:17.400 --> 00:09:21.400 So it requires the local government to conduct, 00:09:21.400 --> 00:09:24.400 to check on medically fragile persons who are registered with STEER 00:09:24.400 --> 00:09:27.400 and ensure they have continuity of care and the ability, 00:09:27.400 --> 00:09:31.400 and the ability to continue using electronically powered medical equipment. 00:09:31.400 --> 00:09:38.400 This came out of winter storm Uri when we had that long period, 00:09:38.400 --> 00:09:42.400 and there was around 300 people in the state of Texas who unfortunately passed. 00:09:42.400 --> 00:09:45.400 I was working 9-1-1 at that time, I was a 9-1 dispatcher, 00:09:45.400 --> 00:09:49.400 I spoke with several people who were in desperate need of assistance, 00:09:49.400 --> 00:09:52.400 and it was really heartbreaking. 00:09:52.400 --> 00:09:55.400 And so I'm really glad that this was passed because it allows, 00:09:55.400 --> 00:09:59.400 it forces local jurisdictions to make a plan for what are we going to do 00:09:59.400 --> 00:10:02.400 with our medically fragile people. 00:10:02.400 --> 00:10:07.400 So some of the events that require welfare checks is going to be extended power, 00:10:07.400 --> 00:10:11.400 water or gas outages, an emergency disaster declaration, 00:10:11.400 --> 00:10:14.400 or any other time it's deemed necessary. 00:10:14.400 --> 00:10:18.400 What I've been working on is, oh sorry, the requirements for these wellness checks 00:10:18.400 --> 00:10:23.400 are also an automated phone call or text, a personalized phone call, 00:10:23.400 --> 00:10:26.400 and then if they don't answer either one of those, 00:10:26.400 --> 00:10:29.400 we have to actually go in person and check on those people. 00:10:29.400 --> 00:10:32.400 And it almost be done within 24 hours of the qualifying event. 00:10:32.400 --> 00:10:37.400 So not after 24 hours, within that first 24 hours. 00:10:37.400 --> 00:10:42.400 So some of the things we're doing, this plan is still in the works, 00:10:42.400 --> 00:10:46.400 we're using AlertDent, which is an EverBridge. 00:10:46.400 --> 00:10:49.400 We use it right now to send out typically weather alerts, 00:10:49.400 --> 00:10:50.400 which you'll see. 00:10:50.400 --> 00:10:53.400 We also use it for missing persons. 00:10:53.400 --> 00:10:57.400 But we'll send out a message and you can reply back to that saying, 00:10:57.400 --> 00:11:00.400 "Yes, I'm good," or, "No, I need help." 00:11:00.400 --> 00:11:03.400 Step two, our staff is going to call anybody who didn't answer. 00:11:03.400 --> 00:11:07.400 Like I said, we have 208 people currently registered. 00:11:07.400 --> 00:11:10.400 And then step three is fire staff will actually go out and check 00:11:10.400 --> 00:11:13.400 on the remaining persons not accounted for. 00:11:13.400 --> 00:11:16.400 We've also partnered with DME and CoServe to ensure we're being 00:11:16.400 --> 00:11:19.400 notified any time there's a power outage longer than four hours 00:11:19.400 --> 00:11:21.400 so we can start that process. 00:11:21.400 --> 00:11:24.400 So any time there's any power outage that's longer than four hours 00:11:24.400 --> 00:11:26.400 for anybody on that steer list, 00:11:26.400 --> 00:11:28.400 we're going to start making those notifications, 00:11:28.400 --> 00:11:31.400 make sure that they have a week. 00:11:31.400 --> 00:11:34.400 So I'm sorry I ran through that really fast. 00:11:34.400 --> 00:11:36.400 But do you all guys have any questions about what we're doing, 00:11:36.400 --> 00:11:39.400 any concerns, any ideas? 00:11:39.400 --> 00:11:42.400 So the steer that's volunteer, voluntary? 00:11:42.400 --> 00:11:44.400 Yes, it's voluntary. 00:11:44.400 --> 00:11:49.400 It says on there that it doesn't -- I think it says on there somewhere 00:11:49.400 --> 00:11:52.400 where it's like it's not a guarantee that you're going to get help, 00:11:52.400 --> 00:11:56.400 but with that state bill, we're going to be out there and check on it. 00:11:56.400 --> 00:12:00.400 Well, I'm just saying, so people don't want to, they don't have to? 00:12:00.400 --> 00:12:01.400 They don't have to. No, no, no. 00:12:01.400 --> 00:12:04.400 This is just one to help with planning and then so that we can come 00:12:04.400 --> 00:12:08.400 and check on you in the case of a disaster. 00:12:08.400 --> 00:12:13.400 The other side of it, is there a way -- because I know that during a disaster, 00:12:13.400 --> 00:12:17.400 you know, our personnel are going to be busy. 00:12:17.400 --> 00:12:20.400 Is there a way if you can't get hold of the person, 00:12:20.400 --> 00:12:26.400 it learns contacting a neighbor, is there an option in there to contact this person? 00:12:26.400 --> 00:12:28.400 Yeah, there's an emergency contact on the steer list. 00:12:28.400 --> 00:12:30.400 Okay. Yeah, so they've thought of that. 00:12:30.400 --> 00:12:33.400 So we'll try to contact them if we don't hear from them because, you know, 00:12:33.400 --> 00:12:35.400 one of the things in my head is if the power is out, 00:12:35.400 --> 00:12:37.400 what if these people don't have a cell phone? 00:12:37.400 --> 00:12:43.400 So we can contact their friends or family, their emergency contact, and make sure. 00:12:43.400 --> 00:12:48.400 And a lot of the things I talk about in my presentations too, you know, 00:12:48.400 --> 00:12:53.400 I do presentations for people with disabilities and their families is having a plan. 00:12:53.400 --> 00:12:56.400 You know, checking on your neighbors, talking with your neighbors, saying, 00:12:56.400 --> 00:12:58.400 "Hey, will you be my buddy? Will you come check on me? 00:12:58.400 --> 00:13:02.400 If something bad happens, I'll come check on you." 00:13:02.400 --> 00:13:08.400 They replied that they are fine at first and then something happens for that situation to change. 00:13:08.400 --> 00:13:11.400 How do they contact you? Are they not? 00:13:11.400 --> 00:13:15.400 Do they know how to get back in contact? Does the text message have something? 00:13:15.400 --> 00:13:20.400 It has something along the lines of if you have an immediate emergency, call 911. 00:13:20.400 --> 00:13:24.400 So I think 911 is always a good -- because we're going to be in direct contact with them of, 00:13:24.400 --> 00:13:26.400 "Hey, what are your needs looking like?" 00:13:26.400 --> 00:13:29.400 So I think 911 is always a valid option. 00:13:29.400 --> 00:13:36.400 But definitely put maybe the emergency number -- the emergency management number up there. 00:13:36.400 --> 00:13:37.400 Yes, ma'am. 00:13:37.400 --> 00:13:40.400 Is documentation required to what disability? 00:13:40.400 --> 00:13:41.400 No. 00:13:41.400 --> 00:13:45.400 Do you think, like, where you're going or what the disability is when you head to their house? 00:13:45.400 --> 00:13:48.400 It'll list, like, what -- I think there's a section for notes. 00:13:48.400 --> 00:13:53.400 So they can put on there that they are bedbound, that they don't -- 00:13:53.400 --> 00:13:55.400 and it gives some information about what to put in there. 00:13:55.400 --> 00:13:59.400 They're bedbound. They don't communicate verbally. 00:13:59.400 --> 00:14:03.400 What's the best way -- you know, they're on oxygen, that kind of stuff. 00:14:03.400 --> 00:14:06.400 So blindness and not being -- all those count? 00:14:06.400 --> 00:14:08.400 Yeah, they will all be on there. 00:14:08.400 --> 00:14:10.400 Well, they have the opportunity to put on there. 00:14:10.400 --> 00:14:16.400 They're not required to disclose what the disability is. 00:14:16.400 --> 00:14:22.400 So people that require transportation assistance, how is that provided? 00:14:22.400 --> 00:14:25.400 So we -- the fire department, obviously, we can transport. 00:14:25.400 --> 00:14:28.400 We do have a transport van. 00:14:28.400 --> 00:14:30.400 And then I'm working hopefully with parks. 00:14:30.400 --> 00:14:33.400 They have several vans, including ADA vans. 00:14:33.400 --> 00:14:38.400 And then if it needs to ramp up to, you know, a large transport issue, 00:14:38.400 --> 00:14:43.400 we have contacts with DCTA as well with their mobility assistance. 00:14:43.400 --> 00:14:44.400 Okay. 00:14:44.400 --> 00:14:48.400 And I can't remember the man's name that's deployed. 00:14:48.400 --> 00:14:54.400 Well, when he was here, he said that I was asking about how we were going to -- 00:14:54.400 --> 00:14:56.400 I don't know if it was his program or not, 00:14:56.400 --> 00:15:03.400 but he talked about putting something in libraries, like for example, 00:15:03.400 --> 00:15:05.400 and it would be, you know, one of those signs, 00:15:05.400 --> 00:15:10.400 and it would have, you know, a website or, you know, scanning it, 00:15:10.400 --> 00:15:13.400 and you could go to it, and I've never seen it. 00:15:13.400 --> 00:15:16.400 Yeah, I think that that kind of -- it got jumbled up. 00:15:16.400 --> 00:15:19.400 But it's part of actually my education plan. 00:15:19.400 --> 00:15:21.400 It's going to involve a lot in the libraries, 00:15:21.400 --> 00:15:27.400 a lot of outreach in the nursing homes and the extended care facilities. 00:15:27.400 --> 00:15:29.400 So that's definitely part of our plan. 00:15:29.400 --> 00:15:31.400 I have some flyers created, 00:15:31.400 --> 00:15:35.400 just kind of waiting for the time when I can throw all my force behind it. 00:15:35.400 --> 00:15:36.400 That's a great idea. 00:15:36.400 --> 00:15:40.400 And then the -- like, I don't meet any of the other criteria, 00:15:40.400 --> 00:15:43.400 but I ride a bike for transportation. 00:15:43.400 --> 00:15:49.400 So is there another -- I mean, would I need to sign up for this? 00:15:49.400 --> 00:15:52.400 You know, my neighbor is probably going to watch out for me, but -- 00:15:52.400 --> 00:15:54.400 But if you need help getting to a shelter, 00:15:54.400 --> 00:15:57.400 we're going to make sure you get to a shelter, if that's the case. 00:15:57.400 --> 00:16:00.400 If you need help, we're going to do whatever we can to make sure that you do. 00:16:00.400 --> 00:16:02.400 So -- but I would need to sign up. 00:16:02.400 --> 00:16:04.400 You don't have to -- I mean, you don't have to sign up for this. 00:16:04.400 --> 00:16:06.400 You could all -- anybody can always call 911. 00:16:06.400 --> 00:16:12.400 This is just like -- we just want to make sure that nobody gets lost 00:16:12.400 --> 00:16:13.400 in the system. 00:16:13.400 --> 00:16:17.400 Nobody feels like they don't have anywhere to go or anywhere to call. 00:16:17.400 --> 00:16:19.400 There's a lot of people who just sat at home 00:16:19.400 --> 00:16:22.400 and were called and didn't call for help. 00:16:22.400 --> 00:16:25.400 And so we want to make sure that everybody has the opportunity to call -- 00:16:25.400 --> 00:16:27.400 or even if they don't have the opportunity 00:16:27.400 --> 00:16:30.400 or they don't have the idea to call for help, 00:16:30.400 --> 00:16:32.400 we're there to check on them. 00:16:32.400 --> 00:16:36.400 Yeah, and DCTA would be great, you know, to have a big bus. 00:16:36.400 --> 00:16:37.400 Yeah, yeah. 00:16:37.400 --> 00:16:39.400 So we've been -- I've been working with them a lot 00:16:39.400 --> 00:16:43.400 for some of our plans, so for emergency. 00:16:43.400 --> 00:16:46.400 And then I'm guessing, like, within the state of Texas, 00:16:46.400 --> 00:16:50.400 that all places that serve, like, nursing homes -- 00:16:50.400 --> 00:16:53.400 I worked at a rehab center for the blind in Austin, 00:16:53.400 --> 00:16:57.400 a school for the blind, school for the deaf, different things like that. 00:16:57.400 --> 00:17:01.400 So all of those places would then be linked? 00:17:01.400 --> 00:17:03.400 They have the opportunity to register. 00:17:03.400 --> 00:17:05.400 They're urged to register. 00:17:05.400 --> 00:17:07.400 We're trying to get the word out there to register. 00:17:07.400 --> 00:17:11.400 That's part of my plan is when I'm talking with nursing homes, 00:17:11.400 --> 00:17:16.400 and I have one nursing home I'm meeting with at the end of this month. 00:17:16.400 --> 00:17:19.400 And so one thing that I plan on bringing up is making sure 00:17:19.400 --> 00:17:21.400 that you have your people register for this. 00:17:21.400 --> 00:17:23.400 That way, it helps us with our planning. 00:17:23.400 --> 00:17:25.400 Okay, thank you. 00:17:25.400 --> 00:17:37.400 How do you register? 00:17:37.400 --> 00:17:38.400 How do you register? 00:17:38.400 --> 00:17:40.400 So you can either go online and register, 00:17:40.400 --> 00:17:46.400 or you can also call 2-1-1, and they will register you for you. 00:17:46.400 --> 00:17:49.400 I was thinking maybe the Social Security Office 00:17:49.400 --> 00:17:51.400 or something like that might be a good place to do that. 00:17:51.400 --> 00:17:52.400 Oh, yes. 00:17:52.400 --> 00:17:53.400 Yeah, definitely. 00:17:53.400 --> 00:17:55.400 And I know 2-1-1. 00:17:55.400 --> 00:17:57.400 I just had a meeting with them. 00:17:57.400 --> 00:17:58.400 So they are pushing this. 00:17:58.400 --> 00:18:00.400 They actually have a whole -- when you call them, 00:18:00.400 --> 00:18:02.400 you go one for English, two for Spanish. 00:18:02.400 --> 00:18:04.400 And I can't remember if it's option four or five, 00:18:04.400 --> 00:18:07.400 but it's literally they will register you. 00:18:07.400 --> 00:18:08.400 Do we have 2-1-1 here? 00:18:08.400 --> 00:18:09.400 Yes. 00:18:09.400 --> 00:18:10.400 There's 2-1-1 in all of Texas. 00:18:10.400 --> 00:18:14.400 Anybody can call 2-1-1 for any resources. 00:18:14.400 --> 00:18:15.400 Yes, ma'am. 00:18:15.400 --> 00:18:17.400 Is it only the city of Denton, or is it Denton County, 00:18:17.400 --> 00:18:19.400 like PowerPoint, Tioga, and all that? 00:18:19.400 --> 00:18:23.400 That goes off -- that's the county's plan. 00:18:23.400 --> 00:18:27.400 So it falls under -- we're responsible for the city of Denton. 00:18:27.400 --> 00:18:29.400 I know Denton County is working on their plan. 00:18:29.400 --> 00:18:32.400 I'm not sure what their plan is yet. 00:18:32.400 --> 00:18:36.400 So I could definitely follow up on that for you if you'd like. 00:18:36.400 --> 00:18:39.400 So I think -- adding to the question. 00:18:39.400 --> 00:18:41.400 So this is -- it's the entire state? 00:18:41.400 --> 00:18:42.400 Mm-hmm. 00:18:42.400 --> 00:18:44.400 Cities saying, okay, I'll get involved in this, 00:18:44.400 --> 00:18:47.400 and then this is just -- 00:18:47.400 --> 00:18:49.400 This is just basically a way for us -- 00:18:49.400 --> 00:18:56.400 it's an easy way for us to get those people to follow this bill. 00:18:56.400 --> 00:19:00.400 And it's in your best interest if you have this bill to -- 00:19:00.400 --> 00:19:01.400 Absolutely. 00:19:01.400 --> 00:19:02.400 Absolutely. 00:19:02.400 --> 00:19:05.400 It's one thing that as soon as I'm able to, 00:19:05.400 --> 00:19:07.400 I want to push this out in the community a lot, 00:19:07.400 --> 00:19:09.400 get it in the community newsletters, 00:19:09.400 --> 00:19:15.400 do some social media campaigns that I have working on 00:19:15.400 --> 00:19:17.400 to try to make sure that people know about this, 00:19:17.400 --> 00:19:20.400 because I feel like there's definitely more than 208 people 00:19:20.400 --> 00:19:22.400 in the city of Denton with disabilities 00:19:22.400 --> 00:19:24.400 who would benefit from this. 00:19:24.400 --> 00:19:26.400 So it's a new thing. 00:19:26.400 --> 00:19:28.400 It just came out last year. 00:19:28.400 --> 00:19:30.400 And so it's something that even emergency managers -- 00:19:30.400 --> 00:19:33.400 we talk about this all the time every time we get together. 00:19:33.400 --> 00:19:34.400 Hey, what's your plan? 00:19:34.400 --> 00:19:38.400 Trying to come up with the best way to serve the population. 00:19:38.400 --> 00:19:40.400 So we're learning, too. 00:19:40.400 --> 00:19:44.400 Is there any plans in the future that you're aware of 00:19:44.400 --> 00:19:49.400 to treat the streets so that people can get out? 00:19:49.400 --> 00:19:52.400 I know that our streets does do -- 00:19:52.400 --> 00:19:55.400 they have a huge responsibility to treat the streets, 00:19:55.400 --> 00:19:58.400 and they have a priority list that they go down. 00:19:58.400 --> 00:20:03.400 So they're primary -- TechStat's responsible for 35 and -- 00:20:03.400 --> 00:20:04.400 380? 00:20:04.400 --> 00:20:05.400 Don't quote me on that. 00:20:05.400 --> 00:20:07.400 I have it listed in my office. 00:20:07.400 --> 00:20:10.400 But then other than that, it falls on our streets department. 00:20:10.400 --> 00:20:13.400 So I know anytime we have a winter weather event, 00:20:13.400 --> 00:20:17.400 I start doing calls a couple days before with every department, 00:20:17.400 --> 00:20:20.400 the directors, the deputy directors, the city manager's office, 00:20:20.400 --> 00:20:23.400 and we talk through all of the needs of the community. 00:20:23.400 --> 00:20:25.400 And I know that they work around the clock 24 hours 00:20:25.400 --> 00:20:28.400 to try to treat the streets as quickly as possible. 00:20:28.400 --> 00:20:31.400 But if it's still falling, sometimes it's really hard. 00:20:31.400 --> 00:20:33.400 So I know that they have a priority list 00:20:33.400 --> 00:20:35.400 that they have to go down for streets. 00:20:35.400 --> 00:20:39.400 But it's one thing that we would love to, I think, 00:20:39.400 --> 00:20:42.400 have all the streets perfect as well as possible. 00:20:42.400 --> 00:20:44.400 So it seems like we're getting more and more 00:20:44.400 --> 00:20:46.400 and come up with a better idea. 00:20:46.400 --> 00:20:48.400 So I just want to thank you. 00:20:48.400 --> 00:20:50.400 And I think the city of Denton, 00:20:50.400 --> 00:20:53.400 guys coming from other cities, they're on it. 00:20:53.400 --> 00:20:54.400 Good. 00:20:54.400 --> 00:20:56.400 Well, the bad part about the streets 00:20:56.400 --> 00:20:59.400 is that you mentioned a couple of them. 00:20:59.400 --> 00:21:03.400 So Dallas Drive is owned by the state. 00:21:03.400 --> 00:21:05.400 380, the state. 00:21:05.400 --> 00:21:08.400 Locust and Elm, by the state. 00:21:08.400 --> 00:21:10.400 Those are not city streets. 00:21:10.400 --> 00:21:12.400 So they're different priorities. 00:21:12.400 --> 00:21:15.400 But they're going to fall way under 00:21:15.400 --> 00:21:17.400 what the state's priorities are, 00:21:17.400 --> 00:21:19.400 what time stocks' priorities are, right? 00:21:19.400 --> 00:21:21.400 Those are going to be like a level 3 priority. 00:21:21.400 --> 00:21:27.400 And so, honestly, them getting to them is down there. 00:21:27.400 --> 00:21:31.400 It's just that mixture that we have in our city. 00:21:31.400 --> 00:21:36.400 Is there a way we can salt it for them 00:21:36.400 --> 00:21:38.400 and send them a bill? 00:21:38.400 --> 00:21:40.400 I know that they actually do maintain 00:21:40.400 --> 00:21:43.400 a lot of those streets you're listing. 00:21:43.400 --> 00:21:46.400 I know our streets does go ahead and maintain them 00:21:46.400 --> 00:21:49.400 a lot of times just to make sure that the citizens are safe. 00:21:49.400 --> 00:21:52.400 Now, the word is that once they're finished, 00:21:52.400 --> 00:21:54.400 they ever get finished, 00:21:54.400 --> 00:21:56.400 the state ever actually finishes their parking, 00:21:56.400 --> 00:21:58.400 they're wanting to turn it over to the city. 00:21:58.400 --> 00:22:02.400 They want to turn Dallas Drive and Elm over to the city. 00:22:02.400 --> 00:22:06.400 That would be their responsibility. 00:22:06.400 --> 00:22:09.400 But they need to finish filling the holes first. 00:22:09.400 --> 00:22:10.400 And then turn it over. 00:22:10.400 --> 00:22:12.400 Definitely, definitely. 00:22:12.400 --> 00:22:15.400 Dreamer. 00:22:15.400 --> 00:22:19.400 But I'm always, y'all guys can, my information is here. 00:22:19.400 --> 00:22:21.400 Feel free, you can snap a picture of it. 00:22:21.400 --> 00:22:22.400 Send me an email. 00:22:22.400 --> 00:22:23.400 If y'all guys have any ideas, 00:22:23.400 --> 00:22:26.400 you have any places you would like a presentation, 00:22:26.400 --> 00:22:27.400 information. 00:22:27.400 --> 00:22:28.400 Like I said, I'm doing, 00:22:28.400 --> 00:22:30.400 I'm meeting with the nursing home later this month. 00:22:30.400 --> 00:22:32.400 I'm doing a tabletop exercise with them. 00:22:32.400 --> 00:22:35.400 So what a tabletop exercise is, is we go through questions. 00:22:35.400 --> 00:22:37.400 It's a facilitated discussion. 00:22:37.400 --> 00:22:41.400 And we talk about what does it look like for a winter weather event 00:22:41.400 --> 00:22:44.400 or a heat event or a tornado? 00:22:44.400 --> 00:22:47.400 And we talk with their staff and so that they can work through it. 00:22:47.400 --> 00:22:48.400 Because the more you talk about it, 00:22:48.400 --> 00:22:50.400 the more you go through it in your head. 00:22:50.400 --> 00:22:52.400 When it actually happens, it feels more second nature. 00:22:52.400 --> 00:22:54.400 It doesn't feel like, oh my gosh, what do I do? 00:22:54.400 --> 00:22:55.400 No, we've had this conversation. 00:22:55.400 --> 00:22:56.400 We've talked about it. 00:22:56.400 --> 00:22:57.400 We've thought through it. 00:22:57.400 --> 00:22:59.400 And it also may, you know, 00:22:59.400 --> 00:23:02.400 open up some gaps you didn't know of. 00:23:02.400 --> 00:23:06.400 Like, oh, maybe we should have, you know, had XYZ. 00:23:06.400 --> 00:23:07.400 So. 00:23:07.400 --> 00:23:11.400 And then of course the 211 signing up is, 00:23:11.400 --> 00:23:14.400 is accessible for hearing impaired. 00:23:14.400 --> 00:23:15.400 Absolutely. 00:23:15.400 --> 00:23:18.400 And also they have 150 languages, hearing impaired. 00:23:18.400 --> 00:23:20.400 So anybody can use, 00:23:20.400 --> 00:23:24.400 that's what I usually direct people to is 211 because it's the easiest way. 00:23:24.400 --> 00:23:26.400 Thank you. 00:23:26.400 --> 00:23:29.400 Any other questions? 00:23:32.400 --> 00:23:34.400 Thank you for being gentle with me. 00:24:01.400 --> 00:24:03.400 Good afternoon, everyone. 00:24:03.400 --> 00:24:08.400 I thought I heard you say we don't have to stay fixed to behind the podium. 00:24:08.400 --> 00:24:11.400 I'm Justin Sternbeck, the city's chief communications officer. 00:24:11.400 --> 00:24:16.400 And joining me today is our deputy director of marketing and communications. 00:24:16.400 --> 00:24:17.400 Kayla Herron. 00:24:17.400 --> 00:24:20.400 You let the comms people have a mic. 00:24:20.400 --> 00:24:22.400 You may be up here for a little while. 00:24:22.400 --> 00:24:27.400 But really excited to present our website integration tool that we have 00:24:27.400 --> 00:24:31.400 recently launched for the city's website. 00:24:31.400 --> 00:24:34.400 Just to give you a little background about the marketing and communications 00:24:34.400 --> 00:24:35.400 structure. 00:24:35.400 --> 00:24:39.400 We've recently undergone a lot of changes in the space of marketing and 00:24:39.400 --> 00:24:42.400 communications, a lot of new hirings. 00:24:42.400 --> 00:24:45.400 So we have a very new team over there. 00:24:45.400 --> 00:24:51.400 And part of that initial wave of what we want to focus on was building some 00:24:51.400 --> 00:24:56.400 solid infrastructure so that we can not only build momentum for year one, 00:24:56.400 --> 00:25:00.400 but enhance our reputation in the community, become industry leaders. 00:25:00.400 --> 00:25:04.400 And two of the bullet points I want to point out on the right-hand side is 00:25:04.400 --> 00:25:09.400 that we want to implement clear processes that benefit all stakeholders. 00:25:09.400 --> 00:25:14.400 And secondly, to diversify our communications output for all of 00:25:14.400 --> 00:25:15.400 community. 00:25:15.400 --> 00:25:20.400 And during our assessment period, we identified our website as not being as 00:25:20.400 --> 00:25:27.400 friendly to, you know, inaccessible for all of community. 00:25:27.400 --> 00:25:31.400 Recently we have purchased and implemented a number of new technologies. 00:25:31.400 --> 00:25:35.400 Clearly we're here today to talk about the first one, ReciteMe, which is our 00:25:35.400 --> 00:25:38.400 disability and accessibility website integration tool. 00:25:38.400 --> 00:25:44.400 But we have a number of other tools just to let folks know where we're just 00:25:44.400 --> 00:25:45.400 trying to get better. 00:25:45.400 --> 00:25:51.400 So it is an ongoing process, and we are certainly committed to delivering the 00:25:51.400 --> 00:25:56.400 best marketing and communications products for our residents and visitors. 00:25:56.400 --> 00:25:59.400 So ReciteMe, what is this? 00:25:59.400 --> 00:26:02.400 Why is there this new button that travels on our website? 00:26:02.400 --> 00:26:06.400 And how can it benefit everybody? 00:26:06.400 --> 00:26:11.400 In the space of being inclusive in the digital arena, there are some features 00:26:11.400 --> 00:26:14.400 and capabilities that we are pointing out. 00:26:14.400 --> 00:26:19.400 There are additional features of the site that Kayla will go over in a minute. 00:26:19.400 --> 00:26:25.400 But some of the things that this new tool does offer is multi-language ability. 00:26:25.400 --> 00:26:30.400 So it will translate in over 100 languages for folks. 00:26:30.400 --> 00:26:35.400 We have customized text size and font so you can expand your text and your font 00:26:35.400 --> 00:26:36.400 so it's easier to read. 00:26:36.400 --> 00:26:41.400 We have reading assistants so that -- and reading aids -- that it keeps everything 00:26:41.400 --> 00:26:47.400 on one line and it really just is customizable to the user. 00:26:47.400 --> 00:26:50.400 And then color. 00:26:50.400 --> 00:26:53.400 Not everybody sees the same in terms of the color. 00:26:53.400 --> 00:26:58.400 So having the ability to change it to really benefit you as the end user. 00:26:58.400 --> 00:26:59.400 So thank you. 00:26:59.400 --> 00:27:01.400 I'll give you a demo. 00:27:01.400 --> 00:27:14.400 Do I need to use that keyboard? 00:27:14.400 --> 00:27:18.400 So like Justin said, this tool has so many features. 00:27:18.400 --> 00:27:22.400 And so I definitely encourage you all when you have some time to go in and click around 00:27:22.400 --> 00:27:25.400 if you have any feedback or questions to let us know. 00:27:25.400 --> 00:27:29.400 But I am going to go through a few of them with the wall today. 00:27:29.400 --> 00:27:31.400 So this is the recycle button. 00:27:31.400 --> 00:27:35.400 So if you see it on the corner of the website, it does follow you whenever you go from page 00:27:35.400 --> 00:27:36.400 to page. 00:27:36.400 --> 00:27:38.400 And it is mobile friendly. 00:27:38.400 --> 00:27:43.400 So whether you're on your desktop, you're on your favorite iPad or your cell phone, 00:27:43.400 --> 00:27:47.400 it does travel in each of those spaces. 00:27:47.400 --> 00:27:53.400 So like he said, you can increase the font size, which is really nice. 00:27:53.400 --> 00:27:57.400 I'm to a point where I'm having to make things very big for me to be able to see. 00:27:57.400 --> 00:28:01.400 So this is really nice to have that functionality. 00:28:01.400 --> 00:28:05.400 You can zoom back out if you need to. 00:28:05.400 --> 00:28:11.400 Here's kind of the color background, if that is something they need to help it stand out, 00:28:11.400 --> 00:28:12.400 which is really great. 00:28:12.400 --> 00:28:18.400 And then if you can click around and see what works for you. 00:28:18.400 --> 00:28:23.400 And then if for whatever reason you want to just reset it to how it looks on the homepage, 00:28:23.400 --> 00:28:27.400 you can do that as well. 00:28:27.400 --> 00:28:29.400 Here is the language tool. 00:28:29.400 --> 00:28:35.400 So I will I know there's a time, as he said, a time, a time of options. 00:28:35.400 --> 00:28:39.400 And so you can convert this into Spanish. 00:28:39.400 --> 00:28:48.400 And I don't know if the speakers are working in here, but you can let it play and it will read it to you. 00:28:48.400 --> 00:28:55.400 When your speakers just to show that it will bring it to you. 00:28:55.400 --> 00:28:56.400 Really, really excellent. 00:28:56.400 --> 00:29:05.400 And so then if you were to exit out of the website and come back as soon as you hit the recite me toggle, 00:29:05.400 --> 00:29:10.400 it would save everything that you have turned on. 00:29:10.400 --> 00:29:23.400 Good. 00:29:23.400 --> 00:29:28.400 Denton nombrada entre las mejores ciudades de Texas para hacer negocios por Scout. 00:29:28.400 --> 00:29:32.400 Can you do the speed of that? 00:29:32.400 --> 00:29:33.400 I'm guessing the speed. 00:29:33.400 --> 00:29:34.400 Yes, you can. 00:29:34.400 --> 00:29:37.400 You can speed it up as well. 00:29:37.400 --> 00:29:44.400 You can even if you prefer to hear a male voice recited in Texas, April 9th, 20. 00:29:44.400 --> 00:29:45.400 Stop it. 00:29:45.400 --> 00:29:46.400 It jumps into it. 00:29:46.400 --> 00:29:50.400 But yes, you can change the type of voice that you want to hear also. 00:29:50.400 --> 00:29:53.400 And then search. 00:29:53.400 --> 00:29:54.400 There we go. 00:29:54.400 --> 00:29:55.400 We have it turned on. 00:29:55.400 --> 00:29:59.400 And then you can always exit out if you would like. 00:29:59.400 --> 00:30:02.400 And then it just returns you to the homepage as usual. 00:30:02.400 --> 00:30:05.400 Does this exist, the blind at all? 00:30:05.400 --> 00:30:07.400 It has a reading aid, so. 00:30:07.400 --> 00:30:10.400 But how would they know which to point, what to point to? 00:30:10.400 --> 00:30:13.400 I have a friend that just went blind in the last two years. 00:30:13.400 --> 00:30:15.400 So she's struggling with this kind of stuff. 00:30:15.400 --> 00:30:16.400 Yeah. 00:30:16.400 --> 00:30:20.400 Yeah, I'll have to follow up to figure out what their recommendations are for folks. 00:30:20.400 --> 00:30:24.400 About how to navigate that. 00:30:24.400 --> 00:30:28.400 I guess we can follow up with the vendor on that to get clear instructions. 00:30:28.400 --> 00:30:34.400 I imagine it would show up on the screen reader. 00:30:34.400 --> 00:30:36.400 As a verbal command? 00:30:36.400 --> 00:30:38.400 Yeah, as a prompt. 00:30:38.400 --> 00:30:42.400 Well, I think you're so completely blind, just leaving the line. 00:30:42.400 --> 00:30:43.400 Completely. 00:30:43.400 --> 00:30:47.400 So that would be a different set visual with me. 00:30:47.400 --> 00:30:48.400 Right. 00:30:48.400 --> 00:30:50.400 But the hearing part, you know. 00:30:50.400 --> 00:30:54.400 It would, so it's something that would get you asking about prompts, right? 00:30:54.400 --> 00:30:59.400 So if you go across where it says public meetings, it says public meetings, right? 00:30:59.400 --> 00:31:00.400 To get you that point. 00:31:00.400 --> 00:31:01.400 Right. 00:31:01.400 --> 00:31:02.400 I'm with you. 00:31:02.400 --> 00:31:03.400 Yeah. 00:31:03.400 --> 00:31:07.400 Does she have a plug-in that she's integrated into the browser that tells anything? 00:31:07.400 --> 00:31:16.400 She has a communication board on her computer that Austin gave her for the score for the blind. 00:31:16.400 --> 00:31:24.400 So depending on what that product is, if they hovered over the static image or the traveling image of the icon, 00:31:24.400 --> 00:31:30.400 it should tell them, you know, this is the recite me a disability accessibility tool. 00:31:30.400 --> 00:31:36.400 Now, there is one, I guess, limitation I would want to point out. 00:31:36.400 --> 00:31:42.400 Anything that is a static image, it will not integrate with. 00:31:42.400 --> 00:31:46.400 So that is the one limitation of the tool. 00:31:46.400 --> 00:31:48.400 What's the search command? 00:31:48.400 --> 00:31:57.400 I'll put, but I mean, couldn't, or find, isn't there like a, yeah, control find so that you could do that. 00:31:57.400 --> 00:32:08.400 You could do control find and then type in what you're, but you'd have to know what you're looking for. 00:32:08.400 --> 00:32:12.400 That is a very brief overview of the tool. 00:32:12.400 --> 00:32:22.400 We did sign a three-year contract with the vendor, and then we would want to renew that as that comes up on a basis. 00:32:22.400 --> 00:32:28.400 We're certainly open to take anybody's questions or feedback about. 00:32:28.400 --> 00:32:29.400 And it's called recite. 00:32:29.400 --> 00:32:41.400 So if somebody were to, for example, do a search for disability settings, would that pull up recite? 00:32:41.400 --> 00:32:58.400 Would you clarify the search for these type in disability settings? 00:32:58.400 --> 00:32:59.400 That's a great question. 00:32:59.400 --> 00:33:05.400 I would have to ask just only because it lives on the homepage right here. 00:33:05.400 --> 00:33:08.400 I don't know that it is so we can confirm that. 00:33:08.400 --> 00:33:11.400 I think that would be helpful. 00:33:11.400 --> 00:33:18.400 I don't believe it would work if you're typing into that search bar because the search bar is linked to navigation. 00:33:18.400 --> 00:33:21.400 This is an external tool. 00:33:21.400 --> 00:33:28.400 It would pick up our press release that we issue, not necessarily the. 00:33:28.400 --> 00:33:40.400 So I have a question I want to ask Heather, because we talked about the libraries and about the patterns that are going on there. 00:33:40.400 --> 00:33:51.400 Are we being careful on here on our actual website about patterns, flashes, things like that? 00:33:51.400 --> 00:33:55.400 I don't understand what you're asking. 00:33:55.400 --> 00:34:07.400 Something that's just really visually busy maybe is just to have it be less like when you went, for example, to that black screen with the yellow. 00:34:07.400 --> 00:34:10.400 I was like, please stay here all the time. 00:34:10.400 --> 00:34:18.400 So is there a way to get to something that's less visually distracting? 00:34:18.400 --> 00:34:28.400 For some people, we were talking about the patterns when you walk into the library, making sure that there weren't. 00:34:28.400 --> 00:34:31.400 Flashing, when the flashes come up, that can affect people. 00:34:31.400 --> 00:34:35.400 And I'm just making sure that when we're building our website, I'm not necessarily talking about the site. 00:34:35.400 --> 00:34:38.400 I'm talking about the whole website that we're making careful. 00:34:38.400 --> 00:34:47.400 Are we being careful that we're not going to overstimulate people? 00:34:47.400 --> 00:34:48.400 It's just something. 00:34:48.400 --> 00:34:49.400 I mean, this is why we're here. 00:34:49.400 --> 00:34:50.400 Absolutely. 00:34:50.400 --> 00:35:00.400 I think we would look to a committee like this to really help provide feedback on what elements of our existing site are areas that could be improved. 00:35:00.400 --> 00:35:06.400 And then we can certainly look at options. 00:35:06.400 --> 00:35:10.400 I don't know about visually impaired people in the settings that they might use, 00:35:10.400 --> 00:35:18.400 but it could be something that you tie into as they're navigating to this site if they have something enabled in their browser. 00:35:18.400 --> 00:35:22.400 And you can sense that programmatically. 00:35:22.400 --> 00:35:27.400 You could surface these tools instead of having this page, if that makes sense. 00:35:27.400 --> 00:35:33.400 So they're already navigating with a visual aid, something engaged through the browser. 00:35:33.400 --> 00:35:41.400 You can sense that and maybe redirect them to something, not this, where it's more provisional people, but something where you start out. 00:35:41.400 --> 00:35:45.400 Here's our tool that you can start browsing with first. 00:35:45.400 --> 00:35:50.400 So that using their screen reader would naturally link it to something. 00:35:50.400 --> 00:35:57.400 I don't even know if that's possible, but it might be, you know. 00:35:57.400 --> 00:36:03.400 I'm not sure on the first time you experience it, I mean, once you lock in your preferences and settings and then it saves it for you. 00:36:03.400 --> 00:36:16.400 But in that first user experience, I don't have a lot of experience with already existing reading aids or tools that are in place. 00:36:16.400 --> 00:36:17.400 I don't either. 00:36:17.400 --> 00:36:23.400 I would assume that if you're browsing and you're completely blind, it just starts reading the page front to the bottom. 00:36:23.400 --> 00:36:32.400 So instead of getting to the bottom and then saying, here's recite me, when they're using those auto readers, it should be the first thing that is found. 00:36:32.400 --> 00:36:35.400 Emails are that way. 00:36:35.400 --> 00:36:39.400 I mean, as soon as she pulls that up, she has Braille, so she knows how to pull that up. 00:36:39.400 --> 00:36:53.400 And then the emails start reading it, you know, immediately. 00:36:53.400 --> 00:36:59.400 I think, you know, we just want more information about how the screen reader would interact with the website. 00:36:59.400 --> 00:37:01.400 Maybe they've already thought about that. 00:37:01.400 --> 00:37:09.400 Yeah, and you just don't know. It sounds like some research. 00:37:09.400 --> 00:37:15.400 My father and the reason why my father-in-law was legally blind. 00:37:15.400 --> 00:37:21.400 He had different pieces, but that was 20 years ago. 00:37:21.400 --> 00:37:28.400 Technology has changed. 00:37:28.400 --> 00:37:31.400 Thank you. 00:37:31.400 --> 00:37:32.400 Well, thank you so much. 00:37:32.400 --> 00:37:37.400 We look forward to hearing about the interaction with the screen reader. 00:37:37.400 --> 00:37:39.400 Thank you. 00:37:39.400 --> 00:37:44.400 Yeah, it makes sense that once you get it set up, it just automatically does. 00:37:44.400 --> 00:37:46.400 So it really is just that one time. 00:37:46.400 --> 00:37:48.400 The first time and then you get your default settings. 00:37:48.400 --> 00:37:49.400 Yeah, that's right. 00:37:49.400 --> 00:38:03.400 Thank you. 00:38:03.400 --> 00:38:04.400 You didn't find me. 00:38:04.400 --> 00:38:23.400 You didn't find Chuck. 00:38:23.400 --> 00:38:25.400 Good afternoon, everybody. My name is Chris Escoto. 00:38:25.400 --> 00:38:28.400 I am the park planning manager for the park department. 00:38:28.400 --> 00:38:30.400 It's a pleasure to be here today. 00:38:30.400 --> 00:38:34.400 Today I'll be here to talk about the inclusive playground project. 00:38:34.400 --> 00:38:37.400 For those that don't know about the inclusive playground project, 00:38:37.400 --> 00:38:40.400 I'll cover a little bit of the information of where we've been. 00:38:40.400 --> 00:38:43.400 We have kicked off the public engagement stage, 00:38:43.400 --> 00:38:46.400 and I'm here in front of you today to get your feedback. 00:38:46.400 --> 00:38:50.400 So today we're going to be talking about just the various, again, 00:38:50.400 --> 00:38:54.400 goals, information, the analysis of the site itself, location, 00:38:54.400 --> 00:38:57.400 what we're looking to deal with in the project site. 00:38:57.400 --> 00:39:00.400 There is a namesake of the Lily Cantu playground, 00:39:00.400 --> 00:39:02.400 actually named after Lily Cantu. 00:39:02.400 --> 00:39:05.400 The park itself is located at North Lakes Park, 00:39:05.400 --> 00:39:08.400 and I'll cover a little bit of the site specifics, 00:39:08.400 --> 00:39:11.400 as well as get you a little bit more of an understanding of where we are 00:39:11.400 --> 00:39:13.400 with the project timeline. 00:39:13.400 --> 00:39:16.400 So a little bit about the project team. 00:39:16.400 --> 00:39:21.400 Again, my name is Chris Escoto, parks and recreation staff. 00:39:21.400 --> 00:39:23.400 We have maintenance staff, we have our planning staff. 00:39:23.400 --> 00:39:29.400 We have our recreation users when we have the programming standpoint. 00:39:29.400 --> 00:39:32.400 So a lot of those players have been participating in this, 00:39:32.400 --> 00:39:35.400 in these efforts to try to get all this feedback gained 00:39:35.400 --> 00:39:38.400 in order for us to get this over to our consultant. 00:39:38.400 --> 00:39:40.400 Our consultant is Mesa Design. 00:39:40.400 --> 00:39:44.400 They have partnered with a local organization, 00:39:44.400 --> 00:39:46.400 Star Institute for Sensory Processing. 00:39:46.400 --> 00:39:50.400 Their portion, or their part in this project itself, 00:39:50.400 --> 00:39:55.400 is they're going to be analyzing every specific element of playability 00:39:55.400 --> 00:39:59.400 within the playground itself on how the inclusivity speaks 00:39:59.400 --> 00:40:01.400 from the occupational therapist's perspective. 00:40:01.400 --> 00:40:04.400 So that's something that we're tying into this project, 00:40:04.400 --> 00:40:07.400 as well as we have a focus group. 00:40:07.400 --> 00:40:10.400 The focus group itself, we did have a prior member 00:40:10.400 --> 00:40:13.400 from this committee that served on that. 00:40:13.400 --> 00:40:18.400 I do want to invite that opportunity to you guys to be a part of that as well. 00:40:18.400 --> 00:40:22.400 I know we've been communicating with Mr. Joe this past summer, 00:40:22.400 --> 00:40:24.400 including that focus group. 00:40:24.400 --> 00:40:27.400 However, we do have occupational therapists. 00:40:27.400 --> 00:40:29.400 We have UNT, Dent County, and HMR. 00:40:29.400 --> 00:40:31.400 We have various subject matter experts. 00:40:31.400 --> 00:40:35.400 What this focus group focuses on, I'm intended, 00:40:35.400 --> 00:40:40.400 was more or less us using them as a sounding board. 00:40:40.400 --> 00:40:42.400 They're the subject matter experts. 00:40:42.400 --> 00:40:45.400 How do all these different elements that we're trying to incorporate, 00:40:45.400 --> 00:40:48.400 how does that look like from the other lens? 00:40:48.400 --> 00:40:51.400 So that's something that was very heavily involved with this process 00:40:51.400 --> 00:40:54.400 as far as what we've gotten to today. 00:40:54.400 --> 00:40:57.400 We have had two meetings with that individual focus group. 00:40:57.400 --> 00:41:01.400 Last but not least, I talked about the namesake of the playground. 00:41:01.400 --> 00:41:06.400 Lila Lili Cantu, she recently has passed, 00:41:06.400 --> 00:41:09.400 and I'll talk a little bit more about her story. 00:41:09.400 --> 00:41:13.400 But we do have siblings that have been involved in reviewing the design, 00:41:13.400 --> 00:41:17.400 and they've been very instrumental in giving us more of that information 00:41:17.400 --> 00:41:23.400 when it comes to what they want this playground's legacy to be in her namesake. 00:41:23.400 --> 00:41:26.400 So you might be asking, what's an inclusive playground? 00:41:26.400 --> 00:41:29.400 By definition, it's a universally designed sensory-rich environment 00:41:29.400 --> 00:41:33.400 that enables all children to develop physically, socially, 00:41:33.400 --> 00:41:36.400 and emotionally in the same space. 00:41:36.400 --> 00:41:38.400 What we're trying to get out of this playground, 00:41:38.400 --> 00:41:43.400 and we like to use this imagery that you see here with the scatterplot, 00:41:43.400 --> 00:41:48.400 there is misconception that all of our playgrounds are ADA-accessible, 00:41:48.400 --> 00:41:52.400 or I should say they are all-inclusive, they are all ADA-compliant, 00:41:52.400 --> 00:41:56.400 but it doesn't necessarily mean that they take into account the physical, intellectual, 00:41:56.400 --> 00:41:58.400 all those different abilities. 00:41:58.400 --> 00:42:02.400 So what we like to show within the scatterplot is an illustration 00:42:02.400 --> 00:42:07.400 on how inclusion speaks to making sure that they're integrated within the play space, 00:42:07.400 --> 00:42:10.400 rather than excluding them on the axial perimeter 00:42:10.400 --> 00:42:13.400 or segmenting them into a specific area within the park. 00:42:13.400 --> 00:42:19.400 So as an inclusive playground, we're trying to accomplish this inclusivity for everyone. 00:42:19.400 --> 00:42:22.400 We want to make sure that everyone plays, ultimately. 00:42:22.400 --> 00:42:26.400 So within that platform itself, that's what our vision is. 00:42:26.400 --> 00:42:30.400 And here's some general statistics that support some of those components 00:42:30.400 --> 00:42:36.400 when it comes to the hidden disabilities that exist out within the community. 00:42:36.400 --> 00:42:41.400 Like I mentioned, we did kick off our community engagement stage about a month ago, 00:42:41.400 --> 00:42:43.400 but where we've been with this project, 00:42:43.400 --> 00:42:47.400 this all came in fruition from our Parks, Recreation, and Trail System Master Plan, 00:42:47.400 --> 00:42:53.400 where there was heavy emphasis on the accessibility, inclusivity within our park spaces. 00:42:53.400 --> 00:42:56.400 So that was something that was captured within the Master Plan, 00:42:56.400 --> 00:43:01.400 which then we identified funding to go ahead and start this design project. 00:43:01.400 --> 00:43:06.400 If you haven't heard already, the bond program that passed this past November 00:43:06.400 --> 00:43:08.400 did allocate funding for the inclusive playground. 00:43:08.400 --> 00:43:13.400 That's $3.45 million directly towards the construction of the playground. 00:43:13.400 --> 00:43:19.400 So I do want to emphasize that the design money is not getting used out of that construction money. 00:43:19.400 --> 00:43:22.400 That was something that was allocated outside of that. 00:43:22.400 --> 00:43:29.400 So we are trying to get those dollars to go fully into the construction of the project. 00:43:29.400 --> 00:43:31.400 Do you know where it's going to be yet? 00:43:31.400 --> 00:43:34.400 It will, and I'll cover that here in the next few slides. 00:43:34.400 --> 00:43:36.400 So multi-sensory play. 00:43:36.400 --> 00:43:42.400 One of our consultants and really that agency that I spoke about, 00:43:42.400 --> 00:43:47.400 their biggest part is how does this play to the overall sensory play. 00:43:47.400 --> 00:43:52.400 We want to make sure that there's a heavy emphasis on the inclusivity standpoint, 00:43:52.400 --> 00:43:56.400 knowing as well that overstimulation does exist within the park spaces. 00:43:56.400 --> 00:44:00.400 So how do we go ahead and factor in all those variables that exist? 00:44:00.400 --> 00:44:05.400 Everyone has far senses, but not everybody gets to understand 00:44:05.400 --> 00:44:08.400 or know those near senses as they're calling with the vestibular, 00:44:08.400 --> 00:44:12.400 proprioceptive, and the interception inputs that are gathered. 00:44:12.400 --> 00:44:15.400 So that is something that within this web diagram, 00:44:15.400 --> 00:44:18.400 you're able to see how all these different eight senses that they're calling, 00:44:18.400 --> 00:44:22.400 how you're able to implement them within the physicality of the play 00:44:22.400 --> 00:44:26.400 or the social experience and all those different sensory elements. 00:44:26.400 --> 00:44:30.400 So this is something that our consultants will be assessing, 00:44:30.400 --> 00:44:34.400 and that's what the occupational therapist will be touching on 00:44:34.400 --> 00:44:36.400 within the different play experiences. 00:44:36.400 --> 00:44:39.400 So just general project goals that we have. 00:44:39.400 --> 00:44:43.400 Ultimately, we want to make sure that this is a space that everyone is welcome, 00:44:43.400 --> 00:44:45.400 that everyone gets to play. 00:44:45.400 --> 00:44:50.400 We want to make sure that it's decided for wide ranges of ages, abilities. 00:44:50.400 --> 00:44:54.400 Make sure it's sensory rich, comfort, convenience. 00:44:54.400 --> 00:44:59.400 There's been a lot of input from the committee on like adult changing tables. 00:44:59.400 --> 00:45:04.400 Making sure that the surfacing, the materials that we use are very specific 00:45:04.400 --> 00:45:09.400 to keep in mind the different uses and the different oil-less experiences. 00:45:09.400 --> 00:45:12.400 We want to make sure that if we incorporate water into the space, 00:45:12.400 --> 00:45:16.400 making sure that it's somewhat specific in regards to the location 00:45:16.400 --> 00:45:18.400 and keeping in mind that we're not just putting it everywhere 00:45:18.400 --> 00:45:22.400 because for those that have medical devices, want to make sure that we're not-- 00:45:22.400 --> 00:45:25.400 those are heavy dollars that we're not ruining those devices. 00:45:25.400 --> 00:45:28.400 So that's more or less what this is covering here. 00:45:28.400 --> 00:45:32.400 We do want to make sure that we are engaging with our local resources, 00:45:32.400 --> 00:45:35.400 and that factors in partnering with UNT, TWU, 00:45:35.400 --> 00:45:39.400 and really that focus group that we have set in place. 00:45:39.400 --> 00:45:44.400 In addition, knowing that this dream, this vision that we have, 00:45:44.400 --> 00:45:48.400 that 3.45 can only go so much so far. 00:45:48.400 --> 00:45:51.400 So one of the components that we're looking at is how do we face this project? 00:45:51.400 --> 00:45:55.400 We want to make sure that we capture as much as we can within this first phase. 00:45:55.400 --> 00:46:00.400 And there are other opportunities for us to get sponsors, to get grants, 00:46:00.400 --> 00:46:03.400 to get those dollars to go a little bit further. 00:46:03.400 --> 00:46:07.400 So that's something that we're looking to do as well as the sustainability 00:46:07.400 --> 00:46:10.400 when it comes to the site maintenance and the staffing itself, 00:46:10.400 --> 00:46:15.400 not only from the product that we're putting on the ground, but from a maintenance standpoint. 00:46:15.400 --> 00:46:18.400 We want to make sure that what we put in there is sustainable, 00:46:18.400 --> 00:46:20.400 lasts a long time, low maintenance, 00:46:20.400 --> 00:46:26.400 ultimately saving dollars when it comes to having to make repairs. 00:46:26.400 --> 00:46:29.400 Project location is at North Lakes Park. 00:46:29.400 --> 00:46:32.400 North Lakes Park is one of our city parks. 00:46:32.400 --> 00:46:35.400 If you are aware with North Lakes Park, 00:46:35.400 --> 00:46:41.400 there is a lot of current issues from a mobility accessibility standpoint. 00:46:41.400 --> 00:46:45.400 There was an accessibility assessment that was conducted 00:46:45.400 --> 00:46:50.400 with the ADA transition plan a couple years ago, or I guess now three years ago. 00:46:50.400 --> 00:46:56.400 And what you see here on screen gives you the variables and the different assessments 00:46:56.400 --> 00:46:59.400 when it comes to violations, excessive slopes, 00:46:59.400 --> 00:47:03.400 how it's not currently accessible for the most part. 00:47:03.400 --> 00:47:07.400 So what our plan is, we're looking into this diagram here, 00:47:07.400 --> 00:47:11.400 and how can we correct as much as we can from the space that we're creating 00:47:11.400 --> 00:47:14.400 to make sure that that's something that ultimately, 00:47:14.400 --> 00:47:17.400 with the inclusivity standpoint, everyone is able to access. 00:47:17.400 --> 00:47:24.400 So you're looking at the problem areas to make sure that the problems are repeated. 00:47:24.400 --> 00:47:27.400 Is that what you're saying or you're doing the whole park? 00:47:27.400 --> 00:47:31.400 We are, so the park, you'll see what the imagery here will be, 00:47:31.400 --> 00:47:33.400 but we are trying to connect. 00:47:33.400 --> 00:47:36.400 The North Lakes Rec Center is located on this side. 00:47:36.400 --> 00:47:42.400 Our programming that does go to the park itself currently cannot access 00:47:42.400 --> 00:47:46.400 in a good manner without having to get on the parking lot, 00:47:46.400 --> 00:47:48.400 and that's not really safe. 00:47:48.400 --> 00:47:50.400 So that's something that we're looking to improve, 00:47:50.400 --> 00:47:53.400 connection from this location to the playground itself. 00:47:53.400 --> 00:47:57.400 But all these different elements, there is going to be a restriction, of course, 00:47:57.400 --> 00:47:59.400 as you go further down south, perhaps. 00:47:59.400 --> 00:48:02.400 That's not something that's going to be captured in this plan, 00:48:02.400 --> 00:48:06.400 but the City of Denton does have the ADA transition plan, like I did say, 00:48:06.400 --> 00:48:09.400 and that is something that Parks and Recreation is focused on 00:48:09.400 --> 00:48:14.400 for the next five years to try to implement some of those high, medium, low risks. 00:48:14.400 --> 00:48:16.400 Just since you're mentioning North Lakes Park, 00:48:16.400 --> 00:48:21.400 I have a friend that uses a wheelchair that asked if there was a way 00:48:21.400 --> 00:48:26.400 to make parking for people with disabilities closer to the park, 00:48:26.400 --> 00:48:30.400 because that path is just difficult for her to, you know, 00:48:30.400 --> 00:48:33.400 it's just a long way to go with the walk or whatever. 00:48:33.400 --> 00:48:36.400 Yeah, and you're thinking right in line with what we're trying to do, 00:48:36.400 --> 00:48:41.400 so you'll see here in a few slides how that's going to be incorporated into the design. 00:48:41.400 --> 00:48:45.400 The slope analysis that you see here shows, the relevance of this is showing, 00:48:45.400 --> 00:48:50.400 just the variables on how it changes in grade and how excessive it can be, 00:48:50.400 --> 00:48:54.400 even just from accessing the parking lot, as you mentioned. 00:48:54.400 --> 00:48:57.400 So that's something that we're looking to identify. 00:48:57.400 --> 00:49:02.400 This gives you a sense of the slope and the drainage with the issues that we have on site. 00:49:02.400 --> 00:49:04.400 So how are we going to make these corrections? 00:49:04.400 --> 00:49:08.400 There are going to be some challenges with the topography that you see on screen. 00:49:08.400 --> 00:49:12.400 However, our consultant has provided a general conceptual plan 00:49:12.400 --> 00:49:17.400 that we'll see on the next few slides on how we're going to be improving that access. 00:49:17.400 --> 00:49:20.400 So a little bit about Lilly, as I mentioned, 00:49:20.400 --> 00:49:26.400 this was a recently named playground that was adopted by Council in 2022. 00:49:26.400 --> 00:49:32.400 Lilly did grow up in Denton, and we have had conversations with her family, like I mentioned, 00:49:32.400 --> 00:49:37.400 and really from the stories that created from this were truly inspirational, more or less, 00:49:37.400 --> 00:49:41.400 where she truly had a passion to serve kids. 00:49:41.400 --> 00:49:47.400 Her mom was actually a special education teacher, so she grew up in an environment 00:49:47.400 --> 00:49:50.400 that was always caring, that was always giving, 00:49:50.400 --> 00:49:56.400 where she ultimately ended up using all her savings to go to a mission trip, 00:49:56.400 --> 00:50:02.400 or to go, not a mission trip, but to go volunteer at a home for medical financial kids in Peru. 00:50:02.400 --> 00:50:04.400 And that's, unfortunately, where she ended up passing. 00:50:04.400 --> 00:50:06.400 So she is no longer with us. 00:50:06.400 --> 00:50:10.400 However, as I've mentioned, her family does remember her 00:50:10.400 --> 00:50:13.400 as someone with a humility, open mind, always willing to help. 00:50:13.400 --> 00:50:18.400 So what factored into this design heavily influenced from those conversations. 00:50:18.400 --> 00:50:23.400 What ended up happening was the consulting group, based on her story, 00:50:23.400 --> 00:50:28.400 provided two or three conceptual plans where ultimately we went to the family and said, 00:50:28.400 --> 00:50:32.400 out of these three stories, which one do you think portrays her legacy 00:50:32.400 --> 00:50:36.400 in a manner where you feel speaks to her nature? 00:50:36.400 --> 00:50:42.400 So with that information developed, what you see with the pollinator's patch, 00:50:42.400 --> 00:50:50.400 based on her stories, and how she has pollinated all these different individuals, 00:50:50.400 --> 00:50:57.400 helped identify this theme where her commitment to a better world for children 00:50:57.400 --> 00:50:59.400 is ultimately celebrated in this concept. 00:50:59.400 --> 00:51:02.400 And one of the components that we're looking to do, 00:51:02.400 --> 00:51:05.400 usually you have different play zones within the playground. 00:51:05.400 --> 00:51:10.400 Well, in this scenario, there's going to be different hives, different active zones. 00:51:10.400 --> 00:51:15.400 So that's something that you'll get to see within the design here 00:51:15.400 --> 00:51:18.400 on how they're able to implement this. 00:51:18.400 --> 00:51:20.400 There is a lot on the screen, and I'll walk through it. 00:51:20.400 --> 00:51:25.400 As I mentioned with the connection from the rec center to the playground, 00:51:25.400 --> 00:51:29.400 figuring out how are we able to make that connection more accessible, 00:51:29.400 --> 00:51:34.400 add more accessible parking, as we talked about along the front edge of the park, 00:51:34.400 --> 00:51:41.400 as well as restrooms having accessible paths from the surfacing to the playground. 00:51:41.400 --> 00:51:45.400 We are looking to do, rather than having that rubberized mulch, 00:51:45.400 --> 00:51:49.400 or not rubberized mulch, but just that wooden mulch, it's going to be synthetic grass. 00:51:49.400 --> 00:51:54.400 And the synthetic grass product that we're using is anti-static, anti-microbial. 00:51:54.400 --> 00:51:59.400 So there's different elements that we're looking to implement from the inclusivity standpoint. 00:51:59.400 --> 00:52:05.400 You keep in mind different abilities that exist out within a play space. 00:52:05.400 --> 00:52:08.400 We are integrating these play spaces, as I mentioned, 00:52:08.400 --> 00:52:13.400 not trying to seclude specific ages in a certain area, 00:52:13.400 --> 00:52:16.400 or maybe not ages, but maybe more or less the abilities. 00:52:16.400 --> 00:52:19.400 So we're trying to sprinkle those within. 00:52:19.400 --> 00:52:23.400 Out of the input, there is a bathroom, if you're familiar with North Lakes Park, 00:52:23.400 --> 00:52:26.400 there's a bathroom on this section here. 00:52:26.400 --> 00:52:31.400 Based on the feedback, that is a little bit too far for the playground. 00:52:31.400 --> 00:52:36.400 So from that, we are looking to implement a bathroom within the premises as well. 00:52:36.400 --> 00:52:42.400 So that's something that we're looking to do with, as I mentioned, adult-sized changing tables, 00:52:42.400 --> 00:52:49.400 making sure that we have wash stations outside of the areas, have cooling stations. 00:52:49.400 --> 00:52:54.400 So there is a lot into account to how we are designing this. 00:52:54.400 --> 00:52:56.400 However, this is just conceptual. 00:52:56.400 --> 00:53:00.400 So this is just the beginning for us to start getting that feedback from everyone 00:53:00.400 --> 00:53:03.400 on what we want this play space to be. 00:53:03.400 --> 00:53:11.400 Here is some illustrations on how this space can show inspiration on what they're looking to accomplish. 00:53:11.400 --> 00:53:16.400 However, keep in mind, as you see here, this climber here, that's not accessible. 00:53:16.400 --> 00:53:20.400 So it's going to be something that we're looking to be different, 00:53:20.400 --> 00:53:24.400 be a destination from everywhere else within the city. 00:53:24.400 --> 00:53:30.400 As of right now, there is no playground out there that has this mega structure that is truly accessible. 00:53:30.400 --> 00:53:37.400 So we're looking to add and be that city that does this for the first time. 00:53:37.400 --> 00:53:41.400 So we are challenging those playground manufacturers, more or less, 00:53:41.400 --> 00:53:46.400 to try to be creative with those designs, and it's something that truly speaks to the community. 00:53:46.400 --> 00:53:53.400 There is thematic opportunities. So with Lily's namesake, with Lily's itself, 00:53:53.400 --> 00:53:57.400 she really loved flowers, so we can incorporate Lily flowers as pavilions. 00:53:57.400 --> 00:54:00.400 Her middle name is Rose, so can we do roses? 00:54:00.400 --> 00:54:06.400 There's different variable things that we can incorporate just to give a little bit more of that identity to Lily. 00:54:06.400 --> 00:54:12.400 So I mentioned here is a family style accessible restroom that has those exterior wash stations. 00:54:12.400 --> 00:54:18.400 There have been conversations of misters just from the sense of being in Texas, we want to make sure that we have shade. 00:54:18.400 --> 00:54:24.400 But not only that, is there an opportunity from a sensory standpoint that we can implement water in some format, 00:54:24.400 --> 00:54:28.400 whether that's misters or that's water tables. 00:54:28.400 --> 00:54:32.400 One thing that is not going to go on this site is going to be a splash pad. 00:54:32.400 --> 00:54:36.400 That's something that doesn't necessarily fit this project. 00:54:36.400 --> 00:54:44.400 But we do want to see how can we put all these different sensory items into context within the playground. 00:54:44.400 --> 00:54:48.400 The only thing with misters is it's just so human already. 00:54:48.400 --> 00:54:55.400 And it just seems like misters are more for places where it's not as human. 00:54:55.400 --> 00:55:00.400 Yeah, and that's a good point. Like I said, this is just opportunities that have been discussed, 00:55:00.400 --> 00:55:05.400 more or less just trying to get a sense of what is it the community thinks this space should be. 00:55:05.400 --> 00:55:10.400 So this is just purely conceptual just right now at the very early stages. 00:55:10.400 --> 00:55:13.400 So as I mentioned, we're in the public engagement stage. 00:55:13.400 --> 00:55:19.400 We have had, I actually gave this presentation a couple weeks ago for our first community meeting. 00:55:19.400 --> 00:55:25.400 We have presented to our park board. We do plan on going to the schools and trying to hear from the kids. 00:55:25.400 --> 00:55:33.400 We are also looking to be out at the different events as well as host more of these public engagement sessions so we can get that information. 00:55:33.400 --> 00:55:39.400 There is currently a survey out that I'll send over to Carlotta that she can provide over to you guys. 00:55:39.400 --> 00:55:44.400 But it's an active survey that's out in the city right now and ultimately is what do we want this place space to be. 00:55:44.400 --> 00:55:51.400 So there's different experiences, there's different questions that will help our designers with that input. 00:55:51.400 --> 00:55:57.400 We do seek to get final adoption later this fall where we can go straight into construction. 00:55:57.400 --> 00:56:03.400 So with the bond program, we are getting that dispersed within what they call year one. 00:56:03.400 --> 00:56:08.400 So we're going to go straight into construction anticipated to be sometime next summer. 00:56:08.400 --> 00:56:15.400 With that being said, we are also looking grants. So depending on some of those grant timelines could push it a little bit. 00:56:15.400 --> 00:56:22.400 But I think we're we know that we can potentially get started with this out in the ground by next summer. 00:56:22.400 --> 00:56:28.400 So hopefully we'll be ready and cutting this within a year in summer 2026. 00:56:28.400 --> 00:56:35.400 And so, as I mentioned, there is an active survey out there and I'll get this over to Carlotta. 00:56:35.400 --> 00:56:42.400 There is a link here. If there are any questions, we do have a discussed at and project page on discuss that. 00:56:42.400 --> 00:56:50.400 And we have all the different information, all the presentations that we've been giving the public meeting that we recorded was a virtual meeting. 00:56:50.400 --> 00:57:01.400 And we did that on purpose because we did get an American Sign Language interpreter that is on screen and recording for those that are visually impaired. 00:57:01.400 --> 00:57:08.400 That need to not be here any parents are that they need to get get that information out there. 00:57:08.400 --> 00:57:12.400 So with that, I'll open up for questions. 00:57:12.400 --> 00:57:22.400 Is there anything else available of any of this like the playground and trail that you see above, you know, like a drone taking just certain images like that. 00:57:22.400 --> 00:57:33.400 I mean, that would be good to look over and you might get some ideas, you know, about that is that since it's in just the early stages, is it even possible to get a pretty much like 3D renders? 00:57:33.400 --> 00:57:43.400 Get further down that give you the experience or what exactly are you? Well, aren't you still collecting like data on what would work or what you wouldn't work or anything like that? 00:57:43.400 --> 00:57:48.400 Yeah, the data that we're collecting is not necessarily what what wouldn't work or what will work. 00:57:48.400 --> 00:57:52.400 It's more or less what is the experience that we want it to be from a sensory level. 00:57:52.400 --> 00:57:59.400 Do we want to make sure that from the different zones, what's the playability, how active do we want them to be? 00:57:59.400 --> 00:58:08.400 So it's more of the experience. There are examples, like I mentioned, just within the play structures on how you can incorporate that. 00:58:08.400 --> 00:58:20.400 But we haven't gotten that far. Once we collect that information, then that's where we're going to produce those renders and those play experiences and say, hey, this playground here or this amenity here spinner, whatever that may be. 00:58:20.400 --> 00:58:30.400 The swing set gives this and accommodates this. So that's something that we're looking to get further for the longer process. You've been to the one in San Antonio. Have you seen that one? 00:58:30.400 --> 00:58:39.400 You're talking about Casey's. Yes. Yeah, I have not. We did have and that's more an amusement park. 00:58:39.400 --> 00:58:42.400 So that's an amusement park that's a little bit different than we're looking to accomplish here. 00:58:42.400 --> 00:58:50.400 Probably the closest thing to this playground is going to be the Dream Park in Fort Worth or you have Grand Prairie. 00:58:50.400 --> 00:58:59.400 They have the Grand Adventures or next to the Epic Recreation Center. They have about 30,000, 40,000 square foot inclusive playground. 00:58:59.400 --> 00:59:04.400 So that's similar to what we're looking to accomplish here. But again, those different, sorry, those. 00:59:04.400 --> 00:59:13.400 It's a great adventures park in Grand Prairie and then the Dream Park in Fort Worth. 00:59:13.400 --> 00:59:21.400 And that's right next to the Rose Garden. 00:59:21.400 --> 00:59:32.400 Could you tell me about when I asked about the dog park about having puttered thoughts on making it so it's not as both of the dog parks. 00:59:32.400 --> 00:59:35.400 It really is a bit of a walk to get to them. 00:59:35.400 --> 00:59:43.400 And for someone with, you know, with a disability that makes it difficult, it discourages people. 00:59:43.400 --> 00:59:51.400 Yes. So one of the things that I've heard from this project that we have parts of our region has multiple projects that we're currently working on right now. 00:59:51.400 --> 00:59:56.400 We are looking to improve the surfacing over at the dog park. Right now you have the decomposed granite. 00:59:56.400 --> 01:00:03.400 This is where we are looking to get that concrete. We actually just finished our plans. So that will help with some of that connectivity. 01:00:03.400 --> 01:00:14.400 There have been conversations about adding parking lot spaces. Another bond program that was funded from the bond is the expansion of the animal shelter. 01:00:14.400 --> 01:00:25.400 So is there a sense of, does it make sense that whatever they're looking to do, can we install, if they're going to do parking, is there a sense that that makes sense for us to share that to get it closer? 01:00:25.400 --> 01:00:36.400 So those are just conversations that we've been having. Not to say that's going to happen, but that's those are just items that we're looking to try to get to that to have to make this better experience. 01:00:36.400 --> 01:00:45.400 Yeah, I just want to make you make sure you know it is. It is a concern. No, I appreciate that. Thank you. 01:00:45.400 --> 01:00:55.400 Questions guys. Otherwise, again, I appreciate your time. I'm going to come back and give you more information. This is just the beginning. 01:00:55.400 --> 01:01:17.400 If you have any questions, follow ups again, discuss Stanton is that project page where we have that information, but thank you for your time. 01:01:17.400 --> 01:01:35.400 All right. 01:01:35.400 --> 01:01:43.400 Good afternoon, everyone. I am Carlotta Cowan, your new staff liaison. 01:01:43.400 --> 01:01:55.400 I just wanted to give you all a few updates. A couple of these items are follow ups from last meeting. 01:01:55.400 --> 01:02:14.400 So I spoke with the library. One of the things I wanted to follow up with them on was accessibility and additional hotspots. So they did confirm that the planning for the hotspots that budget item is going through this upcoming year's budget process. 01:02:14.400 --> 01:02:33.400 And let's see if the planning for the accessibility updates is expected to begin Q1 of 2027 as far as when they are beginning to remodel or the building for their new building anyway. 01:02:33.400 --> 01:02:49.400 So that'll start with the design phase, which they will see input from you all, and they will be back to ask about that. Touched on the 30 more hotspots. They expect that that will begin circulating early 2025. 01:02:49.400 --> 01:03:07.400 So the next item is a, so we did the library reached out to us to for a support letter they did apply for a special projects grant. And so, thank you, Joe for and Sally for your contributions on that so we did get that letter of support to them. 01:03:07.400 --> 01:03:16.400 They apply for the grant and they should be announcing who won that grant in June, by the end of June this month. 01:03:16.400 --> 01:03:23.400 The next item is a follow up from our solid waste presentation the group that was here last meeting. 01:03:23.400 --> 01:03:38.400 Let's see this service assistance program so one of the things they touched on was the permanent box that can be marked by position, and also, if they want to keep it at 18 months, or if it should go to 24 months. 01:03:38.400 --> 01:03:53.400 When that that permanent box is checked. It's 24 months is when it needs to be reevaluated. So if it is not checked, then it is still an 18 month process. 01:03:53.400 --> 01:04:01.400 And so the residents will need to resubmit their application every 18 months, if the permanent box is not checked every 18 months. 01:04:01.400 --> 01:04:15.400 Can you explain that a little more what are they talking about what. Yes, so this the assistance program service assistance program basically there is a application that if you need it is available it will be mailed to you. 01:04:15.400 --> 01:04:33.400 And I can provide additional information from the last meeting, as well on that for you so the application has a section of it where you can mark if this is temporary or if this is permanent by position, if the additional services so those services include. 01:04:33.400 --> 01:04:48.400 If someone needs assistance bringing their trash bin from the from up by their house out to the street. So our, our staff is is able to assist with that when they have this application on file for that particular address. 01:04:48.400 --> 01:04:52.400 That was the replacement for the yellow. 01:04:52.400 --> 01:05:03.400 Right, yes, yes, they actually got the app up when they're driving around. 01:05:03.400 --> 01:05:10.400 It's checked off permanent, but they still check in every 20 every two years. Yes, every 18 months. Okay, right. 01:05:10.400 --> 01:05:17.400 Yes, and if it's not check that is every 18 months. 01:05:17.400 --> 01:05:27.400 And these are everything that you all saw today is attached to the agendas that I sent that I sent back to you so you help you all have access to this as well. 01:05:27.400 --> 01:05:48.400 So another update here at the sidewalk segment on university so we talked a little bit about the gap between Albertson supermarket and heritage trail. So we got an update on that, that the sidewalk gap has been added to the sidewalk plan. 01:05:48.400 --> 01:06:04.400 So that's going to be a priority on that plan so glad to have that update and this is from our construction team, who provided this update so now is that I'm sorry, is it also including not just the gap, because I know we mentioned the gap between Albertson's 01:06:04.400 --> 01:06:19.400 street and heritage, but then gap going up heritage or south on heritage is also because you have to get into the street before you can actually walk the first day of the day, walk down heritage and then get to that. 01:06:19.400 --> 01:06:32.400 And then walk up to there's that little path right there that people have walked and created, but it's getting down that road, you can't get to university without getting into the street. 01:06:32.400 --> 01:06:46.400 So what I'll do is confirm that that is a part of the plan as well, or part of future development in that area so I'll confirm that and let you all know during our next meeting next month. 01:06:46.400 --> 01:07:12.400 And so lastly, reporting on grievances and grievances there were none. And so our next meeting will be Thursday, May 16 at the repeal. 01:07:12.400 --> 01:07:27.400 Just a quick reminder. So, on the meetings that we just approved from our last meeting, the minutes that we approved from our last meeting, there's an item regarding our issue priorities for 2024. 01:07:27.400 --> 01:07:40.400 And it was supposed to be brought back for this meeting, but it will be brought back the next meeting. I know we touched on a couple of those topics already but we'll vote on that for the last three meetings of the year. 01:07:40.400 --> 01:07:46.400 So the meeting's always here? Yes ma'am. 01:07:46.400 --> 01:07:56.400 I'm going to read it and then read. 01:07:56.400 --> 01:08:08.400 All right, thank you. 01:08:08.400 --> 01:08:14.400 Thank you so much. 01:08:14.400 --> 01:08:18.400 About three more months.