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MINUTES <br />PLANNING COMMISSION <br />FEBRUARY 12, 2009 <br />are any times that the young women will be in the homes unsupervised. <br />Boyd replied that there will not be any unsupervised time. <br />Knudsen asked about the staffing. James Cruz, Pathways to the <br />Community, reported that their firm will provide the staffing and is a <br />State-licensed provider. All staff is trained. The company is licensed and <br />must comply with insurance requirements. Pathways to the Community <br />contracts with Ramsey County to provide these services. Cruz noted that <br />they are looking for creative ways to provide their services to the <br />community at a reduced cost from the traditional group home. Knudsen <br />asked if the firm is audited. Cruz replied that they are audited annually by <br />the Department of Human Services. Cruz felt that the situation ultimately <br />comes down to being responsible and being a good neighbor. <br />Knudsen asked what would happen if this was not approved. Renee <br />Galvin replied that they would have to move their daughter with them, and <br />she does not want to move, nor is it in her best interest. Another <br />alternative would be to put her in a foster home. <br />Lonnie Thayer appeared before the Commission and reported that his <br />daughter is the other young lady that will be occupying the Galvin home. <br />Thayer reported that he would rather see his daughter in this home than in <br />an institutional setting. Thayer noted that the young women will be <br />supervised at all times. The cost of her care is the same as the waiver <br />money she is receiving now. She will be in the Galvin home with other <br />young women of her same abilities and will be able to form fi•iendships. <br />Pechmann reported that he is familiar with these circumstances and <br />understands the parents' struggles as his niece lived in a similar situation. <br />Pechmann noted that this will not be a licensed group home, and asked <br />how often there will be staff oversight. Renee Galvin noted that the <br />parents will meet monthly to review the situation. Boyd also noted that <br />each girl has a social worker that they are mandated to see twice each <br />year. Pechmann felt the idea was a good one and an interesting solution to <br />a difficult problem. <br />Hall asked how often the State reviews Pathways to the Community. Cruz <br />replied that the State does a review annually and the County reviews them <br />up to eight times per year. <br />Mary Sue Bramsen indicated that she was not opposed to the idea, but <br />noted that she has two young children and was concerned about increased <br />U•affic. She asked who would be responsible for property maintenance, <br />and if there are any backup plans if need be. Bramsen noted that this is a <br />family neighborhood and not a rental environment. She asked how <br />residents of the home will be screened and how often it is anticipated that <br />-11- <br />