Maine Coalition for Housing and Quality Services (MCHQS)
Meeting Minutes
April 13, 2026
Meeting Minutes
April 13, 2026
Attendees via Zoom: Ann-Marie Mayberry, Autumn Jackson, Brenda Smith, Bridget McCabe, Courney Harnum, Cullen Ryan, Danielle Smith, Dawn Cedrone, Debbie Riordan Dionne, Derek Fales, Donna Alger, Dr. Thomas Dukes, Elizabeth Hansen, Erin Martinez, Jena Jones, Julianne Zaharis, Karen Berry, Kate McElligott, Kathy Rickards, Kim Humphrey, Laura Cordes, Lisa Vermette, Lisa Wesel, Liz Burgess, Maggie Hoffman, Mario C, Megan Salvin, Mindy Ward, Rachel Dyer, Ryan Gallant, Scott McKeough, Shelley Zielinkski, Staci Converse, Vicky Shaw, and possibly a few people who joined after the meeting began and left prior to the conclusion of the meeting.
Thank you all for your patience in using the new Zoom link. We apologize to those who experienced difficulties accessing the meeting and to anyone who was unable to join. We will be using a new Zoom link free of initial sign-in steps to ensure a smoother experience for our next meeting.
Cullen Ryan opened the meeting by introducing himself and welcoming attendees and acknowledging each by name. He offered a huge thank you to Community Housing of Maine (CHOM) and particularly, Vickey Merrill, for their longstanding work supporting the Coalition, and their generous and thoughtful support during the Coalition’s administrative transition from CHOM to 3Rivers. Cullen also thanked Ann-Marie Mayberry, CEO of 3Rivers, for her gracious support for the administrative assistance going forward for the Coalition. He noted that this remains a parent-led grassroots information clearinghouse to help create understanding and trust withing the entire system.
Moving forward, the Coalition will continue to be facilitated and coordinated by Cullen with Bridget McCabe serving as note taker. The Coalition website, files, minutes, and agendas will be supported by 3Rivers while the Coalition remains its own independent entity. Thank you to everyone for making this collaborative effort a success.
Cullen provided an overview of the Coalition. Minutes from the last meeting were accepted.
Featured Speakers: Derek Fales, Associate Director, Developmental Disabilities and Brain Injury Services, joined by Dr. Thomas Dukes, Quality Assurance Team Leader, and Sara Fleurant, Developmental Disability Housing Coordinator, who all work for the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS).
Topic: 108 Licensing rule change and how this and recent changes will affect the ID/DD system of care.
Cullen introduced and welcomed our presenters today, Derek Fales, Associate Director, Developmental Disabilities and Brain Injury Services, he gave a special welcome to Dr. Thomas Dukes, the new Quality Assurance Team Leader, and he welcomed Sara Fleurant, Developmental Disability Housing Coordinator, all who work for the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS). Cullen expressed great appreciation for their participation in joining the Coalition for this meeting to provide us with updates and speak on the new 108 Licensing rules and how it will effect the ID/DD system of care as well as other updates.
Derek thanked Cullen for inviting him to review and discuss these new rules.
Begin Presentation: (click this link for the presentation: 108 Licensing Standards slide show)
Derek provided a thorough review of the presentation. The presentation included an overview of the new licensing standards for Home and Community Support Services Chapter 108, which applies to providers delivering services for individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and brain injury. He explained that the rule requires all providers of home and community-based waiver services to be licensed, regardless of their previous status, and outlined the different service types covered, including residential, day, employment, shared living, and case management services. The presentation covered the structure of the licensing rule, with Division of Licensing and Certification handling general standards and Office of Aging and Disability Services focusing on quality assurance standards, including personnel qualifications, service planning, and delivery requirements. If you have additional questions, please reach out to OADS at: [email protected]
Discussion:
-A self-advocate commented that this is fantastic work and congratulated the Division of Licensing and OADS for their collaboration, noting appreciation for departments working together in this way. The self-advocate expressed appreciation for this approach and style and recommended revising the term “group home”, which is seen as institutional, to language such as “homes where services are provided” or other options.
Derek responded explaining they used “group home” to connect with language that is familiar to people to understand which service was being identified.
-The self-advocate proposed alternative language solutions.
Cullen expressed appreciation for the self-advocate’s commitment to advancing this language change.
-A self-advocate asked for clarification about the physical intervention training requirement mentioned in 108 licensing rules.
Derek responded that physical intervention training is required any time a person may need assistance, ensuring staff are trained to provide support safely. Planned restraints are prohibited. In emergency situations where intervention is necessary, staff must focus on de-escalation and be trained in what is considered safe and appropriate.
-The self-advocate acknowledged the clarification and noted the distinction between “physical intervention” and “physical assistance”, such as helping someone transfer from a wheelchair to a bed and not considered the same as physical intervention as described in the 108 rules for training.
Cullen requested clarification on the terms used, “Social Role Valorization” and “Discovery and Exploration”, terms used for training specific in these rules.
Derek explained Social Role Valorization is an approach relative to people with disabilities to have valued roles in their communities, such as being a neighbor, employee, friend, or family member rather than a person with a disability. It emphasizes inclusion, meaningful participation, and being seen and respected as a full member of society. “Discovery and Exploration” refers to a person-centered process used to learn about a person’s interests, strengths, preferences, and goals. This helps guide services and support so people can explore opportunities, such as work, relationships, and community involvement, that are meaningful to the person.
-A member asked about the overall timeline for the licensing process.
Dr. Lisa Vermette, Division of Licensing, responded that while a specific start-to-finish timeline cannot be provided, the process is underway. Agencies submitted applications by mid-January, and reviews are currently in progress. She noted that timelines will vary depending on the setting, services, and the time required for survey teams, as this is a methodical process with no set end date.
-The member also asked whether anyone would lose services during the licensing process.
Dr. Vermette: In response to this question, it was shared that there is no expectation that individuals will lose services unless an agency is unable to meet or maintain licensing standards.
Derek added that for brand-new settings seeking to open, both the agency and the home must be licensed before services can begin.
-A question was asked if families or individuals can view licensing status online.
Derek: Yes, people can view the status on the OMS database under the Home and Community Licensing section to access this information. https://www.pfr.maine.gov/almsonline/almsquery/SearchCompany.aspx
-A question was asked about potential disruption of services during the process.
Derek indicated that disruptions are not anticipated.
-A question was raised regarding whether, under the new licensing changes for shared living homes, a reviewer would visit the home.
Derek responded that while there are standards applying to shared living, they do not apply to shared living in the same way as agency operated per diem homes. He noted, for example, there is no fire marshal review required for shared living home settings.
-A self-advocate asked whether there is an optional category for housing to identify accessibility features if an individual is blind, deaf, or uses a wheelchair.
Derek responded that accessibility is determined based on the specific needs of the individual in relation to the setting where they are.
-Self-advocate asked if there were to be an opening, how someone would know if it was accessible to them.
Derek: This would be addressed through the person-centered-plan process to ensure the service or home meets the individual’s accessibility needs.
-For people currently living in an unlicensed home, would they have to leave?
Derek: No
-How would the 90-day vacancy protocol work?
Derek: This type of situation would be resolved based on a conversation between the case manager and the provider.
Cullen thanked Derek for his thorough explanation of the new licensing rules, noting the level of detail, comprehensive coverage, and thoughtful responses to questions, reminding the group to see the presentation for details.
End of presentation.
Other presentations:
State Legislative Updates
Laura Cordes – Maine Association of Community Service Providers (MACSP) provided a more detailed update that the Legislature is nearing the end of its short second session, expected to conclude April 15th. She highlighted the passage and signing of the supplemental budget (LD 2212), which includes a restored 3.07% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for direct care workers with bipartisan support, along with a requirement to review workforce rates every five years and apply COLAs in off years to help stabilize the workforce. The budget also includes funding for 15 reserved Section 21 Priority 1 slots, increased Lifespan waiver slots, and additional funding for OADS, DRM, and to address decreases in Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP), as well as the incorporation of “care gap” language from LD 1932 to better understand gaps between authorized and delivered services.
Laura also noted the inclusion of a 2% tax on high-income earners (often referred to as a “millionaire’s tax”), which will generate additional general fund revenue that can help support priorities such as direct care workforce investments, including future COLAs, though it is not a dedicated funding source. Additional provisions include a scaled-back relief payment program. While the budget passed on party lines and signed by the Governor, takes effect in early July 2026, some funding decisions remain pending on the appropriations “table”, including items such as group home evacuation timelines for residents with disabilities, and other proposals.
Laura took us through multiple legislation with updates, see this link: MCHQS 132nd Maine Legislature
Cullen commended Laura for her leadership and advocacy efforts, particularly in advancing COLA and housing-related initiatives.
Maine Developmental Disabilities Council Updates
Rachel Dyer: Rachel thanked Laura for the good news and legislative updates. Rachel then discussed the Maine Developmental Disabilities Council's upcoming 5-year plan and invited feedback. The draft goals and objectives focus on supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through access to tools, information, and meaningful community participation, while also strengthening systems of support to improve service availability, continuity, and responsible use of public resources.
Rachel noted that the Council’s work, consistent across all states and territories, centers on systems change, advancing policies, practices, and procedures that support a vision of a good life as defined by individuals and not limited by funding or service structures. She acknowledged ongoing uncertainty related to potential future funding cuts and emphasized that the plan is being developed based on research and community input about the most pressing issues facing individuals and families.
Participants were encouraged to share feedback through an online survey with a deadline in May. Rachel reviewed the draft goals and objectives with the group, noting that clearer, more accessible language will be developed as the plan is finalized. Key focus areas include supporting individuals and families in making informed decisions and living meaningful lives in their communities, as well as improving broader systems of support.
Rachel also highlighted SUFU’s recent work, noting two major areas of growth: the transition from in-person to remote engagement, and the resulting expansion of self-advocacy efforts. She shared that individuals have become increasingly engaged in policy-making, with lived experience playing a powerful role in shaping advocacy. Rachel reflected on the impact of the past five years, including the COVID-19 period, increased reliance on technology, and improved understanding of engagement challenges in rural communities for individuals with developmental disabilities. She also noted that SUFU submitted approximately 90 pieces of legislative testimony over the past year. Please visit the survey at this link: ME DD Council 5 Year Plan Survey
Questions/Comments:
Laura asked if Rachel would like us to share the survey more broadly and for clarification on the deadline.
Rachel: The survey link can be shared widely, and the deadline is in May. Anyone with interest or feedback is encouraged to participate.
-Self-Advocate expressed appreciation for Rachel and the Maine DD Council, noting gratitude for the quality of community connections and recognizing the Council’s work as valuable and impactful. The self-advocate also shared admiration for ongoing efforts and asked a question regarding the previous 5-year plan and its outcomes.
Rachel: Previous/current 5-year plan is available on the DRM website.
Cullen thanked Rachel for her years of contributions and leadership, encouraging participants to respond to the survey. He also offered additional appreciation for her ongoing work and impact, along with other positive remarks recognizing her efforts.
Benefits Advocacy and Pathways to Partnerships
Julianne Zaharis, Care Benefits Counselor, Maine Health, emphasized the importance of community advocacy. She noted that when elected officials receive multiple requests from constituents, it can make a meaningful difference in shaping awareness and response to issues affecting benefits and services. She encouraged participants to reach out to their local elected officials and share their experiences and concerns.
Julianne also provided an update on the Pathways to Partnerships model and highlighted the importance of continued advocacy related to public benefits, including programs such as SSI, encouraging ongoing engagement with policymakers at the local level.
Cullen thanked Julianne for stepping up and providing an update and for all of her good work.
Regular updates:
DHHS, Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) – www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads
Sara Fleurant provided updates on partnerships with Maine Housing and the Housing Support Funds program. She noted continued coordination efforts aimed at strengthening housing partnerships and improving access to stable housing for individuals receiving services.
Sara noted that OADS continues to process Section 811 applications and is seeing individuals transition off waitlists. Applications are also still being received for one-time housing support funds, including assistance under Sections 21 and 29.
Cullen added that Section 8 funding is still awaiting a more sufficient allocation but received enough funding to not lose ground this year in the partial government funding that happened in the winter.
DHHS – Children’s Behavioral Health Services (CBHS), Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) - www.maine.gov/dhhs/obh/support-services/childrens-behavioral-health – The Coalition did not receive and update, but is including the following information which came through an OCFS discussion with MACSP:
4.10.2026 MACSP Meeting Notes:
MaineCare/DHHS/OADS/OCFS/CDS/DOE
DOL, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation – Libby Stone-Sterling - no update
DOE, Office of Special Services and Inclusive Education (OSSIE) – Sandy Flacke and/or Tracy Whitlock – no update
Disability Rights Maine (DRM), represented by Megan Salvin, shared updates on several initiatives. DRM is launching a new Rights Jeopardy! project beginning Friday, originally developed by Mary Green in Aroostook County, with plans to expand it into a statewide virtual tournament involving teams. Megan also shared information about the upcoming Disability Pride event scheduled for July 17th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Mill Park in Augusta.
She noted ongoing collaboration with Modivcare to address concerns related to Non-Emergency Transportation (NET) services, including the development of FAQs and educational materials based on a prior presentation to the Coalition, this past December, by Roger Bondeson. DRM also encouraged outreach for support as needed, particularly in light of service transitions such as the closure of a program referred to as “Paradise,” directing questions to Staci Converse, [email protected] or Jared Escobar, [email protected].
Cullen thanked Megan and DRM for the update. No questions or decisions were raised during this section of the meeting.
Housing and Federal Funding Updates
Cullen provided brief updates on federal funding developments related to housing and noted ongoing monitoring of funding streams and policy changes impacting housing supports. He indicated that the partial government funding included funding for many HUD programs, as noted previously in the minutes under DHHS/OADS update.
Laura raised a question regarding funds from a housing bond intended to support the development of affordable housing and related zoning changes to increase housing availability. Cullen referenced LD 2003, a landmark housing bill aimed at expanding housing density options, including provisions allowing single-family homes to be converted into duplexes, with implementation details still being finalized. He also noted that the Governor has set aside additional funding to support housing initiatives.
Cullen: Thank you all for your patience with today’s Zoom link. We will fix that! I look forward to seeing you all in May! Minutes should be out this week. Please keep coming to the Coalition meeting and invite others to participate as well. Thank you to those who provided updates today, including our presenter, Derek Fales, as well as Laura Cordes, Rachel Dyer, and Julianne Zaharis.
Coalition Website - MAINE COALITION FOR HOUSING & QUALITY SERVICES
Next Meeting: May 11, 2026, 12:00 - 2:00.
Featured Speaker and Topic: TBD.
The Maine Coalition for Housing and Quality Services provides equal opportunity for meeting participation. If you wish to attend but require an interpreter or other accommodation, please forward your request two weeks prior to the meeting.
Thank you all for your patience in using the new Zoom link. We apologize to those who experienced difficulties accessing the meeting and to anyone who was unable to join. We will be using a new Zoom link free of initial sign-in steps to ensure a smoother experience for our next meeting.
Cullen Ryan opened the meeting by introducing himself and welcoming attendees and acknowledging each by name. He offered a huge thank you to Community Housing of Maine (CHOM) and particularly, Vickey Merrill, for their longstanding work supporting the Coalition, and their generous and thoughtful support during the Coalition’s administrative transition from CHOM to 3Rivers. Cullen also thanked Ann-Marie Mayberry, CEO of 3Rivers, for her gracious support for the administrative assistance going forward for the Coalition. He noted that this remains a parent-led grassroots information clearinghouse to help create understanding and trust withing the entire system.
Moving forward, the Coalition will continue to be facilitated and coordinated by Cullen with Bridget McCabe serving as note taker. The Coalition website, files, minutes, and agendas will be supported by 3Rivers while the Coalition remains its own independent entity. Thank you to everyone for making this collaborative effort a success.
Cullen provided an overview of the Coalition. Minutes from the last meeting were accepted.
Featured Speakers: Derek Fales, Associate Director, Developmental Disabilities and Brain Injury Services, joined by Dr. Thomas Dukes, Quality Assurance Team Leader, and Sara Fleurant, Developmental Disability Housing Coordinator, who all work for the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS).
Topic: 108 Licensing rule change and how this and recent changes will affect the ID/DD system of care.
Cullen introduced and welcomed our presenters today, Derek Fales, Associate Director, Developmental Disabilities and Brain Injury Services, he gave a special welcome to Dr. Thomas Dukes, the new Quality Assurance Team Leader, and he welcomed Sara Fleurant, Developmental Disability Housing Coordinator, all who work for the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS). Cullen expressed great appreciation for their participation in joining the Coalition for this meeting to provide us with updates and speak on the new 108 Licensing rules and how it will effect the ID/DD system of care as well as other updates.
Derek thanked Cullen for inviting him to review and discuss these new rules.
Begin Presentation: (click this link for the presentation: 108 Licensing Standards slide show)
Derek provided a thorough review of the presentation. The presentation included an overview of the new licensing standards for Home and Community Support Services Chapter 108, which applies to providers delivering services for individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and brain injury. He explained that the rule requires all providers of home and community-based waiver services to be licensed, regardless of their previous status, and outlined the different service types covered, including residential, day, employment, shared living, and case management services. The presentation covered the structure of the licensing rule, with Division of Licensing and Certification handling general standards and Office of Aging and Disability Services focusing on quality assurance standards, including personnel qualifications, service planning, and delivery requirements. If you have additional questions, please reach out to OADS at: [email protected]
Discussion:
-A self-advocate commented that this is fantastic work and congratulated the Division of Licensing and OADS for their collaboration, noting appreciation for departments working together in this way. The self-advocate expressed appreciation for this approach and style and recommended revising the term “group home”, which is seen as institutional, to language such as “homes where services are provided” or other options.
Derek responded explaining they used “group home” to connect with language that is familiar to people to understand which service was being identified.
-The self-advocate proposed alternative language solutions.
Cullen expressed appreciation for the self-advocate’s commitment to advancing this language change.
-A self-advocate asked for clarification about the physical intervention training requirement mentioned in 108 licensing rules.
Derek responded that physical intervention training is required any time a person may need assistance, ensuring staff are trained to provide support safely. Planned restraints are prohibited. In emergency situations where intervention is necessary, staff must focus on de-escalation and be trained in what is considered safe and appropriate.
-The self-advocate acknowledged the clarification and noted the distinction between “physical intervention” and “physical assistance”, such as helping someone transfer from a wheelchair to a bed and not considered the same as physical intervention as described in the 108 rules for training.
Cullen requested clarification on the terms used, “Social Role Valorization” and “Discovery and Exploration”, terms used for training specific in these rules.
Derek explained Social Role Valorization is an approach relative to people with disabilities to have valued roles in their communities, such as being a neighbor, employee, friend, or family member rather than a person with a disability. It emphasizes inclusion, meaningful participation, and being seen and respected as a full member of society. “Discovery and Exploration” refers to a person-centered process used to learn about a person’s interests, strengths, preferences, and goals. This helps guide services and support so people can explore opportunities, such as work, relationships, and community involvement, that are meaningful to the person.
-A member asked about the overall timeline for the licensing process.
Dr. Lisa Vermette, Division of Licensing, responded that while a specific start-to-finish timeline cannot be provided, the process is underway. Agencies submitted applications by mid-January, and reviews are currently in progress. She noted that timelines will vary depending on the setting, services, and the time required for survey teams, as this is a methodical process with no set end date.
-The member also asked whether anyone would lose services during the licensing process.
Dr. Vermette: In response to this question, it was shared that there is no expectation that individuals will lose services unless an agency is unable to meet or maintain licensing standards.
Derek added that for brand-new settings seeking to open, both the agency and the home must be licensed before services can begin.
-A question was asked if families or individuals can view licensing status online.
Derek: Yes, people can view the status on the OMS database under the Home and Community Licensing section to access this information. https://www.pfr.maine.gov/almsonline/almsquery/SearchCompany.aspx
-A question was asked about potential disruption of services during the process.
Derek indicated that disruptions are not anticipated.
-A question was raised regarding whether, under the new licensing changes for shared living homes, a reviewer would visit the home.
Derek responded that while there are standards applying to shared living, they do not apply to shared living in the same way as agency operated per diem homes. He noted, for example, there is no fire marshal review required for shared living home settings.
-A self-advocate asked whether there is an optional category for housing to identify accessibility features if an individual is blind, deaf, or uses a wheelchair.
Derek responded that accessibility is determined based on the specific needs of the individual in relation to the setting where they are.
-Self-advocate asked if there were to be an opening, how someone would know if it was accessible to them.
Derek: This would be addressed through the person-centered-plan process to ensure the service or home meets the individual’s accessibility needs.
-For people currently living in an unlicensed home, would they have to leave?
Derek: No
-How would the 90-day vacancy protocol work?
Derek: This type of situation would be resolved based on a conversation between the case manager and the provider.
Cullen thanked Derek for his thorough explanation of the new licensing rules, noting the level of detail, comprehensive coverage, and thoughtful responses to questions, reminding the group to see the presentation for details.
End of presentation.
Other presentations:
State Legislative Updates
Laura Cordes – Maine Association of Community Service Providers (MACSP) provided a more detailed update that the Legislature is nearing the end of its short second session, expected to conclude April 15th. She highlighted the passage and signing of the supplemental budget (LD 2212), which includes a restored 3.07% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for direct care workers with bipartisan support, along with a requirement to review workforce rates every five years and apply COLAs in off years to help stabilize the workforce. The budget also includes funding for 15 reserved Section 21 Priority 1 slots, increased Lifespan waiver slots, and additional funding for OADS, DRM, and to address decreases in Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP), as well as the incorporation of “care gap” language from LD 1932 to better understand gaps between authorized and delivered services.
Laura also noted the inclusion of a 2% tax on high-income earners (often referred to as a “millionaire’s tax”), which will generate additional general fund revenue that can help support priorities such as direct care workforce investments, including future COLAs, though it is not a dedicated funding source. Additional provisions include a scaled-back relief payment program. While the budget passed on party lines and signed by the Governor, takes effect in early July 2026, some funding decisions remain pending on the appropriations “table”, including items such as group home evacuation timelines for residents with disabilities, and other proposals.
Laura took us through multiple legislation with updates, see this link: MCHQS 132nd Maine Legislature
Cullen commended Laura for her leadership and advocacy efforts, particularly in advancing COLA and housing-related initiatives.
Maine Developmental Disabilities Council Updates
Rachel Dyer: Rachel thanked Laura for the good news and legislative updates. Rachel then discussed the Maine Developmental Disabilities Council's upcoming 5-year plan and invited feedback. The draft goals and objectives focus on supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through access to tools, information, and meaningful community participation, while also strengthening systems of support to improve service availability, continuity, and responsible use of public resources.
Rachel noted that the Council’s work, consistent across all states and territories, centers on systems change, advancing policies, practices, and procedures that support a vision of a good life as defined by individuals and not limited by funding or service structures. She acknowledged ongoing uncertainty related to potential future funding cuts and emphasized that the plan is being developed based on research and community input about the most pressing issues facing individuals and families.
Participants were encouraged to share feedback through an online survey with a deadline in May. Rachel reviewed the draft goals and objectives with the group, noting that clearer, more accessible language will be developed as the plan is finalized. Key focus areas include supporting individuals and families in making informed decisions and living meaningful lives in their communities, as well as improving broader systems of support.
Rachel also highlighted SUFU’s recent work, noting two major areas of growth: the transition from in-person to remote engagement, and the resulting expansion of self-advocacy efforts. She shared that individuals have become increasingly engaged in policy-making, with lived experience playing a powerful role in shaping advocacy. Rachel reflected on the impact of the past five years, including the COVID-19 period, increased reliance on technology, and improved understanding of engagement challenges in rural communities for individuals with developmental disabilities. She also noted that SUFU submitted approximately 90 pieces of legislative testimony over the past year. Please visit the survey at this link: ME DD Council 5 Year Plan Survey
Questions/Comments:
Laura asked if Rachel would like us to share the survey more broadly and for clarification on the deadline.
Rachel: The survey link can be shared widely, and the deadline is in May. Anyone with interest or feedback is encouraged to participate.
-Self-Advocate expressed appreciation for Rachel and the Maine DD Council, noting gratitude for the quality of community connections and recognizing the Council’s work as valuable and impactful. The self-advocate also shared admiration for ongoing efforts and asked a question regarding the previous 5-year plan and its outcomes.
Rachel: Previous/current 5-year plan is available on the DRM website.
Cullen thanked Rachel for her years of contributions and leadership, encouraging participants to respond to the survey. He also offered additional appreciation for her ongoing work and impact, along with other positive remarks recognizing her efforts.
Benefits Advocacy and Pathways to Partnerships
Julianne Zaharis, Care Benefits Counselor, Maine Health, emphasized the importance of community advocacy. She noted that when elected officials receive multiple requests from constituents, it can make a meaningful difference in shaping awareness and response to issues affecting benefits and services. She encouraged participants to reach out to their local elected officials and share their experiences and concerns.
Julianne also provided an update on the Pathways to Partnerships model and highlighted the importance of continued advocacy related to public benefits, including programs such as SSI, encouraging ongoing engagement with policymakers at the local level.
Cullen thanked Julianne for stepping up and providing an update and for all of her good work.
Regular updates:
DHHS, Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) – www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads
Sara Fleurant provided updates on partnerships with Maine Housing and the Housing Support Funds program. She noted continued coordination efforts aimed at strengthening housing partnerships and improving access to stable housing for individuals receiving services.
Sara noted that OADS continues to process Section 811 applications and is seeing individuals transition off waitlists. Applications are also still being received for one-time housing support funds, including assistance under Sections 21 and 29.
Cullen added that Section 8 funding is still awaiting a more sufficient allocation but received enough funding to not lose ground this year in the partial government funding that happened in the winter.
DHHS – Children’s Behavioral Health Services (CBHS), Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) - www.maine.gov/dhhs/obh/support-services/childrens-behavioral-health – The Coalition did not receive and update, but is including the following information which came through an OCFS discussion with MACSP:
4.10.2026 MACSP Meeting Notes:
MaineCare/DHHS/OADS/OCFS/CDS/DOE
- (new) OCFS Listening Tour - open flyer for more details.
- Click here to read the bulletin (4/6/26)
- OCFS Leadership and key program staff will offer in-person community circles in 10 locations and several virtual town halls between April through October 2026.
- Target audience: OCFS seeks to hear from those closest to and most impacted by the early care and education sector, including parents and families of children from birth to age 12, employers, and community partners. More specifically, early childhood professionals including directors and leaders of family childcare programs, childcare centers, preschools, Head Start programs, YMCAs, and early childhood educators and staff.
- Purpose: These sessions are specifically designed for those closest and most impacted by the early childhood sector to share their experiences, challenges, and priorities. OCFS encourages participation to ensure the voices of early childhood professionals are reflected in planning, decision-making, and efforts to strengthen supports for the workforce and the children and families they serve.
- Requests:
- Please distribute this flyer to all [of your] early childhood connections and encourage individuals to complete the interest form to stay up to date on locations, times, and information as it becomes available in region-specific locations. 04062026 OCFS 2026 Listening Tour.pdf
- Fill out this communication interest form below to receive updates. Direct any questions about this form to [email protected]
- (new) Updated State Median Income Eligibility for CCAP (4/7/2026)
- In response to updated state median income data, the Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS) has updated the income eligibility guidelines for the Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP). The new state median income eligibility will be effective 4/18/2026.
- For questions or concerns, please contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone at Toll Free 1-877-680-5866 or 207-624-7999.
DOL, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation – Libby Stone-Sterling - no update
DOE, Office of Special Services and Inclusive Education (OSSIE) – Sandy Flacke and/or Tracy Whitlock – no update
Disability Rights Maine (DRM), represented by Megan Salvin, shared updates on several initiatives. DRM is launching a new Rights Jeopardy! project beginning Friday, originally developed by Mary Green in Aroostook County, with plans to expand it into a statewide virtual tournament involving teams. Megan also shared information about the upcoming Disability Pride event scheduled for July 17th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Mill Park in Augusta.
She noted ongoing collaboration with Modivcare to address concerns related to Non-Emergency Transportation (NET) services, including the development of FAQs and educational materials based on a prior presentation to the Coalition, this past December, by Roger Bondeson. DRM also encouraged outreach for support as needed, particularly in light of service transitions such as the closure of a program referred to as “Paradise,” directing questions to Staci Converse, [email protected] or Jared Escobar, [email protected].
Cullen thanked Megan and DRM for the update. No questions or decisions were raised during this section of the meeting.
Housing and Federal Funding Updates
Cullen provided brief updates on federal funding developments related to housing and noted ongoing monitoring of funding streams and policy changes impacting housing supports. He indicated that the partial government funding included funding for many HUD programs, as noted previously in the minutes under DHHS/OADS update.
Laura raised a question regarding funds from a housing bond intended to support the development of affordable housing and related zoning changes to increase housing availability. Cullen referenced LD 2003, a landmark housing bill aimed at expanding housing density options, including provisions allowing single-family homes to be converted into duplexes, with implementation details still being finalized. He also noted that the Governor has set aside additional funding to support housing initiatives.
Cullen: Thank you all for your patience with today’s Zoom link. We will fix that! I look forward to seeing you all in May! Minutes should be out this week. Please keep coming to the Coalition meeting and invite others to participate as well. Thank you to those who provided updates today, including our presenter, Derek Fales, as well as Laura Cordes, Rachel Dyer, and Julianne Zaharis.
Coalition Website - MAINE COALITION FOR HOUSING & QUALITY SERVICES
Next Meeting: May 11, 2026, 12:00 - 2:00.
Featured Speaker and Topic: TBD.
The Maine Coalition for Housing and Quality Services provides equal opportunity for meeting participation. If you wish to attend but require an interpreter or other accommodation, please forward your request two weeks prior to the meeting.