Patricia Schonlau

The committee meeting involved approving the minutes from the August 16, 2025 meeting. Key discussions included the Chairperson's report, noting an emergency meeting held on September 26, 2025, to pass the general liability premium. Updates were provided on upcoming events like the NABM Cantaloupe University, Washington Seminar, and Vistar Southeast Buying Show. The SLA Report detailed Sodexo being chosen as the teaming partner for the STRATCOM Cafeteria, plans for a Blind Vendor contract at the National Guard Base in Ashland, and ongoing inquiry regarding food service at the new ICE Facility. Operational updates covered the status of 15 active licensed vendors, addressing vending site complaints, and making progress on updating operator agreements (approximately 50% complete). A significant portion of the discussion focused on the federal government shutdown that began on October 1, 2025. Additionally, staff provided specific requests for vendors regarding improving the repair request process, such as providing machine identifiers and serial numbers. Financial updates noted that P&L reconciliations are being handled, and the Combined Set Aside and Unassigned Fund totals $397,515.92. The next meeting was set for March 6, 2026, in Lincoln.

The meeting included reports from commissioners on their activities, including representing the blind community in the hotel industry, celebrating Blind Equality and Achievement Month, attending cybersecurity and job preparation webinars, conducting sensitivity trainings, and participating in board meetings for various organizations. A focus topic on job placement was presented, highlighting employment outcomes, statistics, and initiatives to strengthen employment opportunities for Nebraskans who are blind or visually impaired. The commissioners also discussed dates, locations and focus topics for the upcoming 2026 Commission Board meetings. The Executive Director provided a report covering administration, business office highlights, technology highlights, human resources, and field services. The meeting also included updates on the Nebraska Center for the Blind and the Nebraska Business Enterprise program.

The meeting included reports from commissioners on their activities, including attendance at various meetings and conferences related to blindness and assistive technology. A focus topic was the Nebraska Business Enterprise (NBE) program, with a presentation on its operations, sites, and financial performance. The discussion covered industry trends, the shift to micro markets, and the use of data for decision-making. There was also a report from the Executive Director on administration, human resources, and field services, as well as updates on the Training Center and NBE. Other topics included NFB Newsline usage, Client Assistance Program (CAP) issues, and a proposed award for the Mayor of Lexington. Public comments addressed legislative concerns and upcoming events.

The committee discussed general liability insurance, including the premium, policy fee, and line taxes. A motion was made and passed to pay for general liability insurance from unassigned funds for the fiscal year 10-01-2025 through 09-30-2026. The option to pay for terrorism insurance was discussed and rejected.

The meeting included reports from commissioners on their activities and involvement in various organizations and initiatives. The Executive Director reported on administration, including meetings attended, budget matters, and the impact of federal developments. There were discussions on StarTran, Olmstead Advisory and Committee Meetings, state conventions, and independent agency meetings. The meeting also covered business office updates, technology, human resources, field services, and training center activities. The Nebraska Business Enterprise (NBE) provided updates on vending sites. The board discussed and acted on the approval of the Executive Director's time certification and employee travel. An executive session was held for the Executive Director's annual evaluation, followed by a vote on the retention and salary of the Executive Director. The meeting concluded with final announcements and a discussion about the next meeting's focus topic.