Code of Maine Rules
12 - DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
150 - BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED DIVISION
Chapter 15 - RULES GOVERNING THE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM
Section 150-15-9 - RESPONSIBILITIES OF LICENSED FACILITY MANAGER

1. The manager is responsible for having the facility open for business on the days and during the hours specified in the operating agreement. Hours of operation shall be set by joint agreement of the facility manager, SLA and the agency in charge of the buildings where the business is operated.

2. The manager shall operate the facility business on a cash basis, except for such supplier credit accounts as may be established or authorized by the SLA.

3. The manager shall be accountable to the SLA for the proceeds of the business and shall handle the proceeds, including payments to suppliers and deposits of funds, in accordance with instruction from the SLA. Discounts received for prompt payment of invoices shall be treated as a reduction of the cost of merchandise purchased.

4. The manager shall carry on the business of the facility in compliance with applicable health laws and regulations.

5. The manager shall maintain a neat, business-like appearance while working at the facility and will operate the facility in an orderly, business- like manner.

6. The manager shall make alterations or changes to the location only with written approval of the SLA.

7. SLA must be notified prior to any closing of the facility other than what is outlined in the operations agreement.

8. The manager shall provide for substitute operation of the facility as may be necessitated by the manager's absence for illness, vacation, or other absence. The salary of the person who substitutes for the manager, or that of other emergency or temporary help, shall be paid as an operating expense of the facility.

9. The manager shall maintain a positive working relationship with management and customers of the location wherein the facility is located.

10. The manager shall maintain an inventory of equal or greater value than the initial inventory in order to ensure continuation of service and maintenance of a viable business operation. Retail price of merchandise at each facility shall follow the general price pattern prevailing in the immediate locality. A price listing must be submitted to the SLA by February 1 of each year.

11. The manager shall operate the facility in a manner, which will maintain the minimum annual net profit margin, which is negotiated and documented in the operations agreement.

12. Merchandise shall be fresh and clean. Unsaleable items shall be removed from the facility.

13. The manager shall not extend credit to customers.

14. The manager shall not permit loitering by any persons in the area of the facility.

15. In all instances in which licenses are issued for the operation of automatic vending machines as part of the facility, the manager shall be responsible for maintaining sanitary conditions. Machines and the surrounding area must be cleaned on a regular basis.

16. The manager shall observe sanitation regulations regarding personal activities such as smoking, eating, and drinking within the facility area.

17. The manager shall not be under the influence of intoxicating substances during business hours and shall avoid any actions that interfere with the maintenance of good health and the performance of duties.

18. The manager shall not take part in or allow gambling activities or games of chance in or about the premises of his/her facility. Selling of state lottery tickets shall be allowed if so licensed.

19. The manager shall not be liable for any monthly electrical utility costs associated with the facility.

20. Each Manager shall be required to complete, on approved forms, a weekly report detailing daily business activities. These forms shall be forwarded once a month so that the SLA receives them by the 15th of the following month.

21. The facility shall display a sign provided by the SLA indicating sponsorship.

22. Each manager shall be required to participate in biannual meetings sponsored by the Committee of Blind Managers.

23. As part of manager performance reviews, each Manager will be expected to participate in upward mobility training which include semiannual trainings, nationally sponsored Randolph-Sheppard trainings (virtual or live), webinars and other professional development opportunities.