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Residential Neighborhoods <br /> January 20, 1998 <br /> Page 2 <br /> would be working at such a home, the time spent on different types of activities with the <br /> residents,the policies and procedures in place,the verification of licenses,and overall <br /> safety of the individuals. She noted that this would be an enormous undertaking which the <br /> State Department of Health should be doing. She believed that that agency is more <br /> appropriate. <br /> General discussion then took place on the need for licensing by the state in the areas of both <br /> assisted living and elder care. It was acknowledged that there is a growing need for state <br /> licensing in light of the aging population. <br /> Marge Mynsberge agreed that state licensing would be preferable to localized regulations. <br /> Bert Prawat of the South Bend Fire Department noted that he would be going to <br /> Indianapolis tomorrow and would check to see if there is any pending legislation at the state <br /> level on this topic. He would also check what the cut-off date is for introduction of new <br /> bills. <br /> Council Member Broden noted that the start up capital necessary for an Adult Care Home is <br /> also a question. He noted that one individual could now take care of another without <br /> violating any local regulations. Don Fozo also noted that in B residential areas,one could <br /> take care of up to four individuals without violating the zone regulations. <br /> Marzy Bauer also stressed the need to make sure that the definition of "family" was <br /> reviewed in light of any proposed regulations in this area. <br /> In response to a question raised by Council Member Ujdak, Marge Mynsberge noted that <br /> there is a greater use of home care assistance. It is anticipated that this would increase, <br /> however, this may be impacted by what the Federal Government does with regard to <br /> reimbursement for such services. <br /> Individuals present noted that the overall concern should be the degree of care and safety <br /> concerns, and the quality of care for individuals living in Adult Care Homes. The <br /> individuals present also recommended that the state legislature and our local representatives <br /> be contacted so that discussions could begin at that level for the need for state legislation in <br /> this area. It was suggested that Kent Adams, Cleo Washington, Joseph Zakas, Tom <br /> Kromkowski and Craig Fry be contacted <br /> There being no further business to come before the committee,the meeting was adjourned <br /> at 5:00 P.M. <br /> Respectfully submitted, <br /> Council Member Andrew Ujdak <br /> Chairperson,Residential Neighborhoods Committee <br />