Matthew Petell

The Advisory Council meeting focused on the implementation of a new video conference format and the introduction of new members. The council discussed the status of member participation and challenges in reaching a quorum. A significant portion of the meeting included a presentation from the New York State Department of Labor regarding the Career Zone platform, a free online tool designed to assist youth and young adults with career exploration, skill assessment, and job readiness preparation.

The board conducted hearings on two separate petitions. In the first matter, the board held a vote to elect a new chairperson and heard a petition for a variance regarding a basement window egress requirement, which was ultimately denied after deliberation. In the second matter, the board considered a request for a variance concerning cellar ceiling obstructions in a residential property, where the applicant described challenges in meeting fire safety construction standards due to complex existing utility installations.

The board reviewed reports on legislation, regulations, and staffing, including updates on upcoming cemetery training sessions and 'Caring for Your Cemetery Day'. Financial statistics for annual reports and the status of the vandalism fund were discussed. The board approved applications for hazardous monument repairs at Peterborough Cemetery, Woodlawn Cemetery, Fuma Packard Cemetery, and Grove Cemetery. Additionally, the board approved a restated certificate of incorporation for Huntington Rural Cemetery and a major roadway renovation project at Pine Lawn Cemetery.

The meeting included a comprehensive recap of the previous year's professional boxing and MMA events, noting record-breaking activity in New York. The commission reviewed and approved several models of professional boxing gloves and MMA series gloves based on weight and construction compliance standards. Additionally, the commissioners and staff discussed the success of events held across the state and commended the dedication of medical staff and the commission team.

The strategic plan for NYS Offices of the Inspector General focuses on increasing the hiring and retention of people with disabilities. It includes making workplaces accessible, proactively connecting with people with disabilities for open positions, and communicating support for disability inclusion to the public, other agencies, stakeholders, agency management, and all employees. The plan outlines specific actions such as conducting accessibility surveys, providing reasonable accommodations, developing inclusive hiring practices, and partnering with state entities and community organizations.