PERMA

Regional Advanced Safety Coordinator Training - at Pittsford
2018-10-01 08:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Pittsford Public Library, 24 State Street, Pittsford, NY, 14534, United States
resented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz, this program is the final installment of the Safety Coordinator training and will cover Advanced Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Completion of both this course and the basic training course fulfills the Safety Coordinator training requirements outlined in the Safety Program section of the PERMA Program Agreement. Topics of discussion will include:

Safety committees
General office safety
Emergency evacuation
Substance abuse
Workplace bullying prevention
Transitional duty

Please RSVP to svompa@neami.com by September 24.
Certificates of completion will be sent out after the conclusion of the Advanced courses in November. If you have not yet taken the Basic Safety Coordinator course, it is available to take online at the PERMA Safety Institute.

Regional Safety Coordinator Training - At the PERMA office, Latham
2018-09-28 08:30 - 12:00 | PERMA, 9 Cornell Rd, Latham, NY, 12110, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is September 21st. Training will be held in the PERMA Training Room on the first floor.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Regional Safety Coordinator Training - at Town of Manlius
2018-09-26 08:30 - 12:00 | Town of Manlius, 301 Brooklea Drive, Fayetteville, NY, 13066, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is September 19th. Training will be held at the Manlius Town Hall.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Regional Safety Coordinator Training - at Town of Greene (Chenango County)
2018-09-25 08:30 - 12:00 | Town of Greene, 51 Genesee Street, Greene, NY, 13778, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is September 18th. Training will be held at the Greene Town Hall.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Managers Conference - New Rochelle
2018-09-21 09:00 - 16:00 | Radisson New Rochelle, 1 Radisson Plaza, New Rochelle, NY, 10801, United States
We invite all managers, administrators, and other senior staff to attend one of the PERMA Regional Managers Conferences this September. Intensive sessions led by our expert municipal human resources partner, Ronni Travers, will be supplemented by legal guidance from seasoned labor counsel. Attendees will leave prepared to tackle new State regulations mandating organizational anti-harassment policies and sexual harassment training for employees. Presenters will provide real-life examples that illustrate the perils and pitfalls of ignoring, or not preparing for, harassment in the workplace.
Attendance is FREE for PERMA members and breakfast and lunch will be provided. PERMA has reserved a small number of discounted rooms for attendees at the hotel the night of September 20. Please call Radisson New Rochelle directly to reserve and reference the conference name. You can also reserve your room online – use Destination “New Rochelle” and enter “PERMA” in the “Promo Code” field.
AGENDA
8:00 am – Breakfast Buffet
9:00 am – Session I – Harassment (including Sexual Harassment) in the Workplace
10:30 am – Session II – Workplace Harassment Investigation
12:00 pm – Lunch Buffet
1:00 pm – Session III – Sound Employment Policy Development
2:30 pm – Session IV – Ensuring Implementation of Corrective Action
Session Descriptions
Contact Erin Harrington with questions.
REGISTER

Regional Safety Coordinator Training - at Town of Newburgh
2018-09-21 08:30 - 12:00 | Town of Newburgh, 1496 Route 300, Newburgh, 12550, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is September 14th.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Regional Safety Coordinator Training - at Town of Mamaroneck
2018-09-20 08:30 - 12:00 | Town of Mamaroneck, 740 West Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY, 10543, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is September 13th.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Managers Conference - Syracuse
2018-09-19 09:00 - 16:00 | DoubleTree by Hilton Syracuse, 6301 State Route 298, East Syracuse, NY, 13057, United States
We invite all managers, administrators, and other senior staff to attend one of the PERMA Regional Managers Conferences this September. Intensive sessions led by our expert municipal human resources partner, Ronni Travers, will be supplemented by legal guidance from seasoned labor counsel. Attendees will leave prepared to tackle new State regulations mandating organizational anti-harassment policies and sexual harassment training for employees. Presenters will provide real-life examples that illustrate the perils and pitfalls of ignoring, or not preparing for, harassment in the workplace.
Attendance is FREE for PERMA members and breakfast and lunch will be provided. PERMA has reserved a small number of discounted rooms for attendees at the hotel the night of September 18. Please call DoubleTree Syracuse directly to reserve and reference the group code “PER”. You can also reserve your room online – enter “PER” in the “Group Code” field.
AGENDA
8:00 am – Breakfast Buffet
9:00 am – Session I – Harassment (including Sexual Harassment) in the Workplace
10:30 am – Session II – Workplace Harassment Investigation
12:00 pm – Lunch Buffet
1:00 pm – Session III – Sound Employment Policy Development
2:30 pm – Session IV – Ensuring Implementation of Corrective Action
Session Descriptions
Contact Erin Harrington with questions.
REGISTER

Managers Conference - Buffalo
2018-09-17 09:00 - 16:00 | The Foundry, 1738 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY, 14207, United States
We invite all managers, administrators, and other senior staff to attend one of the PERMA Regional Managers Conferences this September. Intensive sessions led by our expert municipal human resources partner, Ronni Travers, will be supplemented by legal guidance from seasoned labor counsel. Attendees will leave prepared to tackle new State regulations mandating organizational anti-harassment policies and sexual harassment training for employees. Presenters will provide real-life examples that illustrate the perils and pitfalls of ignoring, or not preparing for, harassment in the workplace.
Attendance is FREE for PERMA members and breakfast and lunch will be provided. PERMA has reserved a small number of discounted rooms for attendees at the hotel the night of September 16. Please call Hotel Henry directly to reserve and reference the group code “PERMA”. You can also reserve your room online – enter “PERMA” in the “Group Code” field.
AGENDA
8:00 am – Breakfast Buffet
9:00 am – Session I – Harassment (including Sexual Harassment) in the Workplace
10:30 am – Session II – Workplace Harassment Investigation
12:00 pm – Lunch Buffet
1:00 pm – Session III – Sound Employment Policy Development
2:30 pm – Session IV – Ensuring Implementation of Corrective Action
Session Descriptions
Contact Erin Harrington with questions.
REGISTER

PERMA North Central Regional Chapter meeting
2018-09-10 10:30 - 12:00 | Manlius Fire Department, 8200 Cazenovia Road, Manlius, NY, 13104, United States
All PERMA members in the following counties – Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, and Oswego – are invited to attend the next North Central Regional Chapter meeting. The meet-and-greet will be at the new Village of Manlius fire station in Onondaga County. Refreshments will be served, and all attendees will be entered into a raffle drawing.
If you would like to attend, please RSVP by September 5 to the Chapter leader – Damian Ulatowski, supervisor of the Town of Clay – via email or by calling 315-652-3800, ext. 114.

PERMA Safety Institute (PSI) Admin Webinars
2018-09-05 11:00 - 2018-09-26 12:00
The PERMA Safety Institute (PSI) has expansive functions for those members who chose to administrate the training of their entity’s employees. Learn about all of PSI’s tools at an admin training webinar. Dates and times are below:
Wednesday, September 5 – 11:00 am
REGISTER
Wednesday, September 12 – 11:00 am
REGISTER
Wednesday, September 19 – 11:00 am
REGISTER
Wednesday, September 26 – 11:00 am
REGISTER
Registration for each webinar is limited to 25 attendees. If you need help registering, contact Tate Crosby for assistance.

School Crossing Guard Training - at Village of Canisteo
2018-08-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Village of Canisteo, 8 Green Street, Canisteo, NY, 14843, United States
Developed in conjunction with Zone 5 Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy, the PERMA School Crossing Guard training has kept school crossing guards, and the children they protect, safe for over two years. Attendees review state and federal regulations, proper gear, traffic patterns, and hand signals; learn to instruct children in appropriate pedestrian behavior; and practice techniques learned with each other in an interactive environment.
Contact Lew Moskowitz to register your municipality’s crossing guards.

Regional Safety Coordinator Training - at Southold Fire District
2018-07-18 08:30 - 12:00 | Southold Fire District, 55135 Route 25, Southold, NY, 11971, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is July 9th.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Regional Safety Coordinator Training - at North Patchogue Fire District
2018-07-17 08:30 - 12:00 | North Patchogue Fire Department, 33 Davidson Avenue, Patchogue, NY, 11772, United States

Regional Safety Coordinator Training - at Village of Farmingdale
2018-07-16 08:30 - 12:00 | Village of Farmingdale, 361 Main Street, Farmingdale, NY, 11735, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is July 3rd.
Training will be presented in the Village Hall, Courtroom.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

PERMA 2018 Annual Member Conference
2018-05-24 - 2018-05-25 | The Sagamore Resort, 110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing, NY, 12814, United States
Registration form must be received by April 23, 2018. After this date, rooms are subject to availability.
Register Online Now Download Registration Form Conference Brochure Need Help or Have Questions?

PERMA will make your room reservation. Do not contact the Sagamore to reserve.
Room Choices
Lodge room, lower level $199
Lodge room, walk-in $219
Lodge suite, lower level $279
Lodge suite, walk-in $299
Hotel room, traditional $279
Hotel room, lake view $299
All room rates are single occupancy and include a $20 resort fee. Each additional guest per room is $175.
Prices do NOT include sales tax. If you are tax-exempt, please forward your tax-exempt form to PERMA with your reservation.

Attendance at the conference, hotel stay on the night of May 24, and five meals are all FREE for the first registrant from each municipality. Additional registrants in the same room only have to pay $175 for their meals.
If you are not the first registrant from your municipality, you will have the additional cost for the night of May 24, based on your room choice.
Note your room choice on the registration form in the Preferred Accommodation section.
Your confirmation email will include the total cost of your stay.
If you have any questions, please contact memberservices@neami.com.
You will be required to present a credit card at check-in. Incidentals, sales tax and charges for additional guests or rooms will be charged to that credit card at check-out.

All functions will be held in the Sagamore Conference Center unless otherwise noted.
THURSDAY – MAY 24
8:30 AM – 2:00 PM Conference Registration
8:30 – 9:30 AM Breakfast Buffet
9:30 – 10:20 AM Workshop Session I
10:30 – 11:20 AM Workshop Session II
11:30 – 12:30 PM North Central Region Member Chapter Meeting
11:30 – 1:00 PM Lunch Buffet @Event Center
11:30 – 1:00 PM PERMA Safety & Wellness Fair @Event Center
1:15 – 2:30 PM Keynote Speaker
2:40 – 3:30 PM Workshop Session III
3:30 – 3:45 PM Break
3:45 – 4:30 PM Workshop Session IV
4:30 – 6:00 PM Free Time
6:00 – 7:00 PM Cocktails
7:00 – 8:30 PM Dinner
8:30 – 9:15 PM PERMA Awards Presentation
9:15 – 11:00 PM Evening Event
FRIDAY – MAY 25
8:00 – 9:00 AM Breakfast Buffet
8:30 – 9:00 AM Annual Member Meeting
9:00 – 11:00 AM Keynote Speaker
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Lunch Buffet & Raffle Drawing
View Agenda Details Register Online Now

North Central Region
Member Chapter Meeting and Lunch
A lunch meeting will be held for the members of the pilot member chapter at 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM in Abenia B. All members from Herkimer, Jefferson, Madison, Oneida, and Onondaga Counties are encouraged to attend. PERMA’s North Central Region member pilot chapter is off and running to a fantastic start! The group has held three meetings with dialogue focused on the benefits of sharing ideas and resources, and taking advantage of the services that PERMA, as an advocate and partner, can provide. The chapter is led by Damian M. Ulatowski, Supervisor of the Town of Clay, and he is assisted by Judy Rios, executive assistant.
PERMA Safety & Wellness in the Workplace Fair
The Safety and Wellness Fair is practically doubled in size for 2018! It’s so big we had to move it to the Event Center, down the hill from the Conference Center. Join us for situation simulations, large equipment demonstrations, as well as all of the wellness information and services you are used to getting. We will also be serving lunch in the Event Center to allow easy access to the Fair.
Casino Night & Evening Entertainment
Play our casino tables with free “money,” converse with friendly and knowledgeable croupiers, and collect tickets to win fabulous raffle prizes! And as in previous years, we will have at least one band keeping the evening moving!
Guest Options
The Sagamore offers an unmatched variety of activities to occupy conference attendees’ leisure time. Active pursuits include: tennis, a full complement of waterfront activities, and a fitness center complete with state-of-the-art equipment and daily exercise classes. Also on offer is croquet on the Teardrop Lawn, a nature trail located conveniently near the Lodges, daily sightseeing cruises on The Morgan, and an exclusive spa and salon.
Make sure to check out the Sagamore’s indoor and outdoor pools, followed by a luxurious soak in the Jacuzzi.

THE HONORABLE MANNY DIAZ
A force in local, state, and national politics for nearly three decades, the Honorable Manny Diaz was first elected mayor of Miami in 2001, having never before held elected office. He was re?elected to a second term in 2005 and was chosen to lead the United States Conference of Mayors as its president in 2008. Diaz came to public prominence as the lawyer representing the Florida?based relatives of Elián González, who in 2000 was at the center of a custody battle between his aunts and his Cuban father.
In two terms as mayor, Manny Diaz transformed Miami from a poor, crime-ridden, and economically stagnant city to a flourishing metropolis with a hurtling skyline. In this session, Diaz will explain how he set out to transform the city’s brand by attracting the best and brightest to its shores and how smaller municipalities can too. His strategy? Constant innovation. The public will always look for the next big thing, so governments large and small must always reinvent themselves in order to stay relevant. Diaz—who is frequently approached by mayors from across the nation about rebranding their cities—will share his strategies and insights with you to help you successfully transform your community.

MICHAEL MELNIK, WORKPLACE SAFETY AND PRODUCTIVITY EXPERT
Michael Melnik is an occupational therapist with a Master’s degree in exercise physiology. He is the president and owner of Prevention Plus, Inc. and The Energized Approach. Over the last 25 years he has delivered his “energized” message to more than a half million participants throughout the U.S and around world – including to PERMA members at the 2016 Fall Educational Conference!
Melnick has created a variety of award-winning DVDs that are in use by numerous Fortune 1000 companies. Some of his clients include Best Buy, Wells Fargo, Pacific Gas and Electric, Chevron Texaco, The Home Depot, General Mills, Wal-Mart and many others. His goal is to work with organizations and individuals that have a desire to grow and change… and that want to enjoy the process of making it happen.

Register Online Now Download Registration Form Conference Brochure Need Help or Have Questions?

Safety Coordinator Training - Steuben County
2018-04-25 08:00 - 12:00 | Steuben County, 7220 NY-54, Bath, NY, 14810, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is April 11th.
Training will be presented in the Civil Defense Building.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Safety Coordinator Training - Alden
2018-04-23 08:00 - 12:00 | Village of Alden, 13336 Broadway, Alden, NY, 14004, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is April 9th.
Training will be presented in the municipal building Community Room.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Safety Coordinator Training - Pittsford
2018-04-16 08:00 - 12:00 | Pittsford Public Library, 24 State Street, Pittsford, NY, 14534, United States
Intended to help PERMA members fulfill their named Safety Coordinator required training, this program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA public works risk management specialist Ed Starowicz. The deadline for RSVP is April 2nd.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Safety Training Coordinator, to register.

Regional Meeting - Long Island
2018-04-10 10:00 - 14:00 | The Inn at Fox Hollow, 7755 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury, NY, 11797, United States
Join PERMA staff members and local government experts in a two-part regional meeting in Woodbury, Long Island. The first part of the discussion will revolve around recent changes to the PERMA program agreements. Al Campney, senior director of underwriting and marketing, and Christian Summers, risk services program manager, will be talking about:

How the Payroll Classification, Contributions, and PERMA Advance Discounts section changed to better represent the PERMA underwriting process and how contributions are calculated.
Members’ liabilities in regards to their claims and the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board’s (WCB) authority to determine PERMA’s solvency.
New detailed requirements for members to have a named Safety Coordinator and a Safety Committee that meets quarterly, at minimum.

In the second part of the discussion, Dr. Gerald Benjamin of the SUNY New Paltz Benjamin Center will go over the methodology and conduction of local government efficiency studies, and Thomas Melito, deputy county executive of Suffolk County will discuss how the County developed and implemented its shared services plan.
A complimentary lunch will be served.
Click here to register.

VFF Cancer Benefit Webinar
2018-03-14 13:00 - 14:00
Beneficial for any municipality with volunteer firefighters, this webinar will address New York State’s recently passed Volunteer Firefighter Enhanced Cancer Disability Benefits Act. Going into effect on January 1, 2019, the act requires all eligible firefighters to be covered under a new type of cancer disability insurance.
John Hanson, senior consultant for Willis Towers Watson, and an expert on illness presumption legislation, will discuss all of the components of the law and provide guidance for PERMA members on implementing the coverage within their municipality. John will also be giving this presentation at the PERMA annual conference in May.
Register here.

PERMA Program Agreement webinar
2018-02-14 13:00 - 14:00
Webinar – PERMA Program Agreement Discussion Panel
February 14, 1-2pm
In October 2017, the PERMA Board of Directors approved a revised Program Agreement to unify all PERMA members under the same language, and all members have been asked to execute new agreements. To help clarify many of the changes in the agreements, we are bringing together Al Campney, senior director of underwriting and marketing, and Christian Summers, risk services program manager. Al and Christian will be talking about:

How the Payroll Classification, Contributions, and PERMA Advance Discounts section changed to better represent the PERMA underwriting process and how contributions are calculated.
Members’ liabilities in regards to their claims and the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board’s (WCB) authority to determine PERMA’s solvency.
New detailed requirements for members to have a named Safety Coordinator and a Safety Committee that meets quarterly, at minimum. Data has shown that, historically, organizations with an engaged safety culture have lower loss frequency and severity than comparable organizations without active risk management.

Time will be left after the presentation for registrant questions.

REGISTER by February 9

Webinar-Hearing Conservation Compliance
2017-12-12 11:00 - 13:00
Are you behind on your annual PESH training requirements? This webinar will tell you everything you need to know about getting your employees in compliance with OSHA, MSHA, and PESH hearing conservation training requirements.
Beneficial for supervisors, safety coordinators, superintendents, and anyone else whose employees are exposed to noise and noise-producing equipment, this program will include everything you must know to be in compliance with the Hearing Conservation Standard CFR 1910.95 and MSHA’s 30 CFR 62. In addition to a review of federal and state regulations, you will learn the six essential components of a hearing conservation program
Helene Freed of Industrial Hearing Testing presented this topic at the PERMA 2017 Annual Member Conference, and it was the highest-rated educational session of the topic. Don’t miss out! A Q&A will follow the presentation.
To register, please click here.

Operations Management Human Resources Workshop
2017-11-08 08:00 - 11:00 | PERMA, 9 Cornell Rd, Latham, NY, 12110, United States
Open to all highway, department of public works and water treatment facility management, this three-part workshop is designed to provide attendees with relevant information, strategies and tools that will assist in the management of their workforce.
Presented by Ronni Travers of Public Sector HR Consultants LLC, the workshop will include:

Proven hiring strategies – interviewing and hiring, background checks, how to optimize the LENS program, civil service rules
Drug and alcohol testing in the workplace – how to develop and implement drug and alcohol testing in the workplace, federal requirements for testing
Effective corrective action – the importance of having sound policies and procedures in a corrective action program, union contractual procedures, counseling vs. discipline

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED as attendance is limited to the first 20 reservations.
Register by October 18 to Sigrid Vompa or 518-220-0386.

2017 Fall Educational Conference
2017-11-01 18:30 - 2017-11-03 11:15 | DoubleTree by Hilton Schenectady, 100 Nott Terrace, Schenectady, NY, 12308, United States
Register Online Now Conference Brochure Download Registration Form

Registration form must be received by October 20.
Register by September 25 and receive a $25 Visa gift card!

For the first time ever, PERMA is offering a dine-around at the Fall Educational Conference.
Just mention you are attending the PERMA conference at one of the four Schenectady restaurants below and receive a discount on Thursday evening, November 2. The four restaurants participating are:

Please contact memberservices@neami.com if you have any questions. GARRISON WYNN – Generations Working Better Together
With talents that established him as a Fortune 500 leader and professional stand-up comedian, Garrison Wynn, CSP, fuses comic timing and research to deliver motivational business expertise. For 20 years, he has given keynote presentations to clients (such as American Express, Wells Fargo, Oracle and NASA) at corporate and association events. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller The Real Truth about Success, the Amazon #1 bestseller The Cowbell Principle, has been a weekly contributor to the Washington Post and featured in Forbes and Inc. Magazines. In his teens, he debuted the world’s first video gaming system (Odyssey) with baseball legend Hank Aaron and as a young man spent six years touring comedy clubs with the top names in the business. He went on to become the youngest department head in a Fortune 500 company’s history where he researched and designed processes for 38 company locations nationwide and developed & marketed products still being sold in 30 countries. In this session, Garrison will explore why younger and older people don’t see eye to eye in the workplace, and provide tips for motivating and retaining younger employees, while helping prevent older managers from losing their minds! To make your reservations, please visit http://bit.ly/1l9i6hF or call the DoubleTree at 518-393-4141. Reference the group code “NAM” when making reservations online or by phone. After October 13, rooms are subject to availability.
You must reserve under the PERMA block to obtain the group rate of $129/night.
Register Online Now Conference Brochure Download Registration Form

WEDNESDAY, 11/1
6:30-7:30 pm – Early Arrival/Commuter Registration and Cocktail Reception
THURSDAY, 11/2
8:00 am – Conference Registration
8:00-9:00 am – Breakfast Buffet
9:00-11:00 am – Session I
11:00-11:15 am – Break
11:15 am-12:45 pm – Keynote Speaker
12:45-1:45 pm – Lunch Buffet
2:00-4:00 pm – Session II
FRIDAY, 11/3
8:00-9:00 am – Breakfast Buffet
9:15-11:15 am – Session III
Understanding the Budget Process
Presented by Jay Phillips, Office of the New York State Comptroller
This session will explain the municipal budgetary process, the procedures that should be used in preparing budgets, and the resources and tools available to assist with budget development. It will also address the requirements and options for amending budgets and those reports necessary for successfully monitoring municipal budgets during the year.
The presentation covers concepts such as:

adopting structurally balanced budgets
avoiding reliance on one-shot revenues (i.e. tax base)
budgetary account codes
steps to make budgetary adjustments
accounting for purchase orders
regularly monitoring of operations

Accounting entries are reviewed throughout the presentation.
This session is appropriate for those new to budgeting, as well as seasoned finance officers who could benefit from a refresher that discusses current requirements and resources.
Employee Handbooks, Part I: The Case for Sound Policy Development
Presented by Ronni Travers, Public Sector HR Consultants LLC
There are many positive reasons why your municipality should have an employee handbook. An employee handbook is a valuable communications tool that sets forth the organization’s policies, procedures, practices, and benefits to employees. Having clearly stated policies and procedures will help supervisors and department heads maintain consistency in implementing and enforcing policies.
For employees, written policies and procedures help:

reduce any misunderstandings employees might have about what is expected of them
orient new employees to the organization
long-term employees, who use the employee handbook is a resource guide for when they have questions or need further information.

Employee handbooks are important not only for what they say but also for what they don’t say. Because a poorly written employee handbook can create liability for an employer, it is imperative to have a good understanding sound policy development.
This seminar will explore the case for written policies, and will focus on what should and should not be included in a well-written employee handbook.
This course has been approved for 2 Specified Credit Hours: HR (General) recertification credit hours toward aPHR™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™, SPHRi™ recertification through HR Certification Institute’s® (HRCI®).
The 2017 Workers’ Compensation Reforms
Presented by Lev Ginsburg, Business Council of New York State
In April of this year, the State legislature approved a wide-range of reforms to the New York workers’ compensation system that were seen as a compromise
among the needs of injured workers, employers, and carriers. The timetable set for implementation was a quick one, and as each reform is acted upon, it is met with both praise and skepticism.
In this session, attendees will receive an education in the new reforms and their potential impacts. Topics will include:

Breakdown of the reform, and discussion of the potential saving for municipalities
Timeline for implementation
Comparison of the 2007 and 2017 reforms, in regards to rate increases and causes
Incorporation of the reforms into the FY2017-18 budget
Regulations and resources

After the presentation, there will be plenty of time for questions and answers, as well as round-the-room discussion.
Employee Handbooks, Part II
Presented by Ronni Travers, Public Sector HR Consultants LLC
This session will delve deeper into two employee policy current issues: social media and workplace investigations.
Having a policy on social media is important because it outlines:

Who has the right to speak on behalf of the municipality
Use of municipal logos and seals
Guidelines for sending work-related electronic messages
Prohibited uses of municipal computer systems

And conducting workplace investigations brings up a number of questions if you don’t have a policy in place:

What protections does an employee have if questioned during an investigation?
If employees withhold or falsify information during an investigation, are they subject to misconduct charges?

Attendees will learn effective procedures for conducting an investigation, including harassment complaints, and the proper methods of documentation.
This course has been approved for 2 Specified Credit Hours: HR (General) recertification credit hours toward aPHR™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™, SPHRi™ recertification through HR Certification Institute’s® (HRCI®).
Payroll Trends Within a Non-Traditional Workforce Landscape
Presented by Terri Gallagher, Gallagher and Consultants
In the private sector, the new normal of the workforce is part-time, non-union, non-traditional labor: consultants, contractors, and gig workers. Any municipal official that thinks that type of employment isn’t coming to the public sector is fooling themselves. The municipalities that prepare for this eventuality will be the ones who succeed in the new landscape.
The session will explore:

Changes in the landscape – the new workforce mix
The technological evolution in talent acquisition
Innovate ways to optimize staffing needs
Worker friendly and cost effective payroll solutions
Systems to manager contingent worker programs
Tax, regulatory, and compliance responsibilities and liabilities in this new landscape

Attendees will leave the session knowing what is coming, and able to begin the process of integrating nontraditional labor into the municipal workforce.
This course has been approved for 2 Specified Credit Hours: HR (General) recertification credit hours toward aPHR™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™, SPHRi™ recertification through HR Certification Institute’s® (HRCI®). DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is conveniently located just a few blocks east of downtown Schenectady and offers an array of activities to occupy your free time. On-site and open for dinner is Sammy’s Burger and Bistro with an excellent build-your-own-burger menu. The hotel also offers a salt water pool, a fitness center, and an outdoor fire pit for after-dinner socializing.
This year we are offering a Dine Around, with some of the best food and beverages Schenectady has to offer, discounted only for conference attendees.
And entertainment options abound.
Schenectady is home to Proctors Theatre, the crown jewel of the downtown area. With dozens of national touring Broadway shows, as well as other world-class entertainment, there is something at this vaudeville style theatre for everyone. On November 2, the national tour of Fun Home comes to Proctors. Fun Home was the winner of the 2015 Tony Award for Best Musical.
Just 1/2 mile from the DoubleTree is Union College, the oldest non-denominational institute of higher learning in New York, and the second-oldest in the United States, chartered in 1795. Union boasts many famous alumni, including two presidents: Chester A. Arthur, and Jimmy Carter. On November 2 & 3, Union’s Mandeville Gallery will host an exhibition from artist Laini Nemett, who works with cardboard models, collage, and large scale oil paintings to create architectural environments that explore the idea of “home.”
Located on the same block as Proctors is Bow Tie Cinemas, one of the newest attractions to downtown. Showing the latest releases on digital projection
screens, you can unwind with a glass of wine in one of their stadium seating auditoriums. And just 1.5 miles down the road is the family-run Scotia Cinema. Open since 1929, the Scotia Cinema has been extensively renovated while still maintaining old-fashioned movie house charm. The movies are second-run, but admission is only $5, and the inexpensive concession selection can’t be beat.
Just a short drive from the hotel is the Via Aquarium, the first of its kind in the Capital Region. Opened in 2016, Via Aquarium uses cutting-edge technology and extraordinary exhibits of marine life to plunge visitors in the fascinating world beneath the sea. Among the aquarium features are an exhibit of fish native to the Adirondacks, shark tunnels, and not one, not two, but THREE separate touch pools.
And finally, one mile away from the hotel is the brand-new Rivers Casino. The casino features over 1000 unique slot games; 67 live table games, including a
high-roller room; a poker room; five dining options, including Duke’s Chophouse; and an on-site deluxe spa. Visit riverscasinoandresort.com for promotions and more information.

PERMA reserves the right to use any photograph/video taken at any event sponsored by PERMA, without the expressed written permission of those included within the photograph/video. PERMA may use the photograph/video in publications or other media material produced, used or contracted by PERMA including but not limited to: newsletters, websites, etc.

Advanced Safety Coordinator Training
2017-10-26 10:00 - 14:00
Registration is full. This event is now closed.
For those members who have already implemented the basics of safety coordination by forming a safety committee and beginning regular training and accident investigation, and want to enhance their skills. Presented by risk management staff and John Usher and Joe Cook of PESH, the advanced coordinator training course will cover:
In depth accident analysis
How to perform incident/accident investigations including an investigation form review
“Top down” leadership for safety – all management should be engaged in safety issues, policies etc.
PESH safety rules and updates on regulations
Available PESH services
What safety policies are required by PESH
How to improve your Return To Work program
Active shooter training awareness
Emergency evacuation planning
Workplace Violence awareness training
Contact Sigrid Vompa, safety training coordinator, for more information and to register. Registration ends October 5.

Webinar - Current Cybersecurity Threats Roundtable
2017-10-23 12:00 - 13:00
Roundtable discussion of the most current cybersecurity threats (ransomware, Internet of Things, phishing, social engineering attacks) and how to handle them at both an organizational and constituent level. Discussion will remain non-technical and be suitable for any type of municipal government.
Participants are: Andrew Dolan of the Center for Internet Security, Daniel Gibson of GreyCastle Security, and Deborah Snyder of the NYS Office of Information Technology Services. Walt Lichty, PERMA network engineer, will serve as moderator.
A Q&A will follow the presentation.
Contact Ed DerGurahian to register.

Safety Coordinator Training
2017-10-19 10:00 - 14:00 | PERMA, 9 Cornell Rd, Latham, NY, 12110, United States
REGISTRATION CLOSED-CLASS FULL
This program will cover basic Safety Coordinator duties with a focus on policies, procedures and activities to help you create and maintain a safe workplace. Presented by PERMA representatives and John Usher of NYS DOL – PESH, all attendees who complete the program will receive a certificate. Attendance is limited to the first 20 reservations. The deadline for RSVP is October 4th.
Lunch will be provided.
Contact Sigrid Vompa, Risk Services Assistant, to register.

Rochester Regional Meeting - Compensability in the Life Cycle of a Claim
2017-10-18 12:00 - 15:00 | The Strong Museum, 1 Manhattan Square Drive, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Essential for anyone involved in managing their employer’s workers’ compensation claims. This course will outline topics such as:
-Initial Proceedings in Controverted Cases;
-Litigating Disputes;
-Hearings in Established Cases;
-Vocational Issues in Continuing Compensation Cases;
-Permanency and Closing Continuing Compensation Cases;
-SLU Awards – once claimant reaches MMI, the claimant will likely obtain opinion on SLU to obtain payment
Classification Awards – in carrier’s interest to pursue as soon as possible to lock in “cap” on PPD benefit
Closing without SLU or Classification –many claimants just get better, return to normal, and have no residual permanent disability. This should be the goal in every case;
-Reopening Closed Cases
-Appeals
-Settlements
-Stipulations
8.1.1 Common Stipulations – ANCR/ODNCR, AWW, period and extent of disability, permanency
8.1.2 Procedure – made orally or by short written form (C-300.5), reviewed by WCLJ, and approved at hearing; and
-Section 32 Agreements
The session will be led by Joseph DeCoursey, partner with the firm of Hamberger & Weiss. Mr. DeCoursey has devoted his entire legal career to the defense of employers, insurance companies, self-insured employers, and third-party administrators in Workers’ Compensation claims and related matters.
Lunch will be served, and attendees can receive discounted admission to view the museum after the meeting.
Contact Ed DerGurahian to register!

Crossing Guard Training - Tompkins County
2017-08-29 13:00 - 16:30 | Town of Ithaca, 215 N. Tioga Street, Ithaca, NY, 14850, United States
Protect your school crossing guards from vehicular dangers – like they protect our kids – by sending them to one of PERMA’s half-day seminars. This four-hour training encompasses both classroom learning – covering best practices and federal/state traffic laws – and extensive outdoor practical exercises.
To register for the training in the Town of Ithaca, please contact Lew Moskowitz.
Lew is also coordinating training sessions in different parts of the state, so if this session is not convenient for you, just contact Lew to arrange for training in your area.
