Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council
Public Hearing Notice

Duluth, MN
September 21, 2006

State Plan for Independent Living

WHAT: This public hearing is an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to comment on their experiences, suggest new and innovative approaches for the provision of Independent Living services, and share what is and what is not working for Minnesotan’s with disabilities.

WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE: Consumers of IL services, IL service-providers, other providers of disability-related services, and other interested individuals.

WHY: To remain eligible for Federal Independent Living funds, the State of Minnesota must develop and submit to the U.S. Department of Education, Rehabilitation Services Administration, a new SPIL every three years. The deadline for submitting this SPIL is June 30, 2007. With final approval from the Rehabilitation Services Administration, this SPIL will be effective from October 1, 2007 through September 30, 2009.

WHEN: The public hearing will be held on September 21, 2006 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and also from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

WHERE: Access North Center for Independent Living, 2016 W. Superior Street, Duluth, MN 55806

TELECONFERENCE CAPACITY: If you cannot attend in person, phone conferencing is available. Call 1-800-779-6211 and use the access code 20106. If you have difficulty accessing this number, call Gail Lundeen at 651-278-5195. Please remember that there will be a break between 3:00 and 4:00.

The comments provided will be used to assist the Statewide Independent Living Council and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development in drafting a new three year State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). The SPIL, effective October 2007, will guide the direction and expansion of IL programs and services statewide.

The Statewide Independent Living Council’s goal is to provide the leadership, research, planning and education necessary, to support and expand independent living services in Minnesota. Public input is a crucial piece in enabling the Statewide Independent Living Council to provide effective advice.

For more information, or to obtain a print, formatted or electronic copy of the current SPIL prior to the public hearing, phone (651) 297-2705, or toll free (800) 328-9095, or TTY (651) 296-3900.

Individuals unable to attend the public hearing may e-mail, telephone, or submit written comments on the direction of IL services in Minnesota by contacting Bradley Westerlund, Rehabilitation Specialist, 332 Minnesota Street, St. Paul, MN 55101, or at the telephone numbers listed above, or e-mail: Brad.westerlund@state.mn.us

ASL INTERPRETERS WILL BE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. THE PUBLIC HEARING SITE IS FULLY ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES.