Title
Advisory Board on Disability Affairs March 4, 2026 Meeting Minutes
Body
STAFF:
Jose Rodriguez -Human Resources & Risk Management - Assistant Director
Eglys Hernandez - Human Resources & Risk Management - P/T Administrative Assistant
Fred Couceyro, Director of the Community Recreation Department (Via Zoom)
Yanessa Rodriguez - Community Recreation - Administrative Operations Manager
Catie Hastings - Community Recreation - D.E.I. Coordinator
CITIZEN ADVISORS:
Debbie Dietz, Citizen Advisor (Via Zoom)
Dr. Jennifer Durocher, University of Miami (Via Zoom)
PUBLIC GUEST: Mr. Ernie Martinez
CALL TO ORDER: Meeting was called to order at 10:03am
MEETING ABSENCE: None
MEETING MINUTES APPROVAL:
February 4, 2026
Correction: To change Dr. Durocher’s absence, notice on minutes to citizen advisor’s section
Motion by: Bonnie Blaire / 2nd Wilfredo Jauregui / Approved unanimously
SECRETARY’S REPORT: None
BOARD MEMBERS’ REPORTS: None
NEW BUSINESS:
Mental Health Assistance for Children - Ms. Vanessa Bedoya
Ms. Bedoya spoke of the end of voucher program of assistance program regarding mental health issues at Miami-Dade County public schools. Ms. Bedoya stated she believes the program is still in place, just under a different name and would like to find out who is now in charge of program. Ms. Palacio-Pike extending invite for Ms. Bedoya to attend the upcoming School Community Relations Committee meeting where there will be representatives from the school board present.
OLD BUSINESS:
Adventure Day - Fred Couceyro, Director of the Community Recreation Department (Via Zoom)
Director Couceyro addressed board regarding moving forward with Adventure Day and asked board to identify their goal for this event. Ms. Sando stated goal as described by her husband, Mr. Blake Sando, former Chairperson, was to have this event to celebrate people with disabilities in the community. Ms. Sando stated it has turned into a resource event. Ms. Bedoya stated she ...
Click here for full text