WASHINGTON
State Independent Living Council
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WASHINGTONState Independent Living Council
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SILC Membership Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the SILC?
In cooperation with the state Division of Vocational Rehabilitations and Department of Blind Services (known as "Designated State Units" or DSU's), the primary purpose of the SILC is to prepare a State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) which sets goals and benchmarks for the Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and the services they provide. To help guide this "blueprint", the SILC solicits continual public feedback on the effectiveness of independent living services and the changing needs of the community. Top of Page What does the SILC do? The SILC develops, signs, and submits the State Plan for Independent Living jointly with DSHS and the Health Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Dept of Services for the Blind. They monitor, review and evaluate the implementation of the State Plan, coordinating activities with the State Rehabilitation Council, the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind, and other councils that address the needs of the disability population. Top of Page Who serves on the council? The SILC has 11 governor appointed Council Members . Top of Page Membership requirements: The SILC must have at least one director of a Center for Independent Living chosen by the directors of Centers for Independent Living within the state. It must have at least one representative of directors of any vocational rehabilitation services projects organized by Indian tribes on reservations in Washington and Rehabilitation Act funding. Other council members should include another representative from a center for independent living, parent and guardians for individuals with disabilities, advocates, private business, service providers for individuals with disabilities, and other appropriate individuals. Ex-officio members are representative from state units of DSHS Health Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Department of Services for the Blind and other state agencies providing services for individuals with disabilities. Top of Page Who decides who serves on the council? The governor appoints each council member. Top of Page How long do members serve? Members may serve two terms. Each term is three years. Second terms are not guaranteed. If a member is appointed to serve out the remainder of another person's term, he or she is still eligible to apply for two terms in his or her own right. Top of Page How much time do council members spend on council activities each quarter? Serving on the SILC does involve some time commitment. Members meet in person for at least four public forums and all day quarterly meetings in January, April, July and October of each year. (Thursday evening forum and all day Friday meetings.) These meetings are held in various geographical locations throughout the state of Washington. Between council meetings, you may be a part of a SILC committee such as the State Plan Committee. In addition, you may be asked to participate in monthly teleconference calls. If you are on the Executive Committee, there will be additional time required. Top of Page Are council members paid for their time? No Top of Page Does the council pay for the cost of council-related travel and participation for its members? The council is obligated to follow all the laws, policies, and procedures established by the State of Washington regarding travel. The SILC arranges and pays for airfare and lodging for travel related to council business. Council members pay for fuel and food while in travel status, but are reimbursed for mileage and per diem based on state travel guidelines. Top of Page How can I request reasonable accommodation? The SILC welcomes requests for reasonable accommodation. If you need reasonable accommodation to apply for council membership or after you are appointed, council staff will work closely with you to respond to your request and support your full participation. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Robert Honan at honanrw@dshs.wa.gov or call 1-800-624-4105. Although you can request reasonable accommodation at any time, if at all possible, make your request two weeks in advance of a meeting to allow us time to facilitate your request. Top of Page How do I apply to be on the council? We appreciate your interest in the State Independent Living Council. Members of the SILC are appointed by the Governor, who has established an application process for prospective council members. There are three parts of the Governor's application:
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