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determines on an annual basis that housing other than hotels or motels or facilities regulated under 18 NYCRR Part 900 is not readily available in the social services district and the commissioner submits such determination to the department on an annual basis. Upon such a determination and submission, the social services district will continue to be reimbursed for shelter costs, restaurant allowances as appropriate and rental fees for refrigerators provided to public assistance recipients beyond such six-month period. A recipient's continued need for hotel/motel accommodations must be reviewed and evaluated monthly. The maximum reimbursable amount for shelter costs after August 1, 1984 is $16 per day for the first person in each hotel room, and $11 per day for the remaining occupants in each room. Restaurant allowances, if necessary must be provided in accordance with department regulations. (g) Standards
No family shall be referred to a hotel/motel, nor shall any reimbursement be made for costs incurred from such referral unless all of the requirements set forth below are met: 1. Primary consideration shall be given to the needs of children. Specific factors considered must include but shall not be limited to educational needs, security, the nature of the facility in which the children would be placed, and factors which will insure the minimum disruption of community ties. 2. The hotel/motel shall have appropriate contractual or other arrangements for maintenance, repair and sanitation in the hotel/motel. The hotel/motel must have available for review by the local social services district information verifying the above- mentioned arrangements or record of such. Such information would include, for example, contracts with private carters, bills, receipts, or other evidence of performance. Such arrangements shall include but not be limited to agreements for provision of the following services: i. removal of garbage; ii. maintenance of floor coverings, draperies and furniture; iii. repainting of the facility at least once every five years; iv. maintenance and inspection of the electrical system; v. maintenance of plumbing and plumbing fixtures; vi. maintenance and inspection of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; vii. a regular vermin control program; and viii. provision to insure that entrances, exits, steps and walkways are kept clear of garbage, ice, snow and other hazards. 3. Rooms shall be cleaned at least every other day by hotel/motel staff. 4. Furniture necessary for daily living, including but not limited to tables, bureaus, chairs, beds and cribs must be in each room. 5. No more than two adults shall be placed in the same room. 6. When children are placed in the same room as adults, there shall be sufficient beds so children shall not have to share single beds.