Use of Vending Machines Authorized at DMV Agencies
As part of an ongoing effort to improve customer service, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) will permit private agents under contract with the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to install snack food and beverage vending machines at their facilities. The DMV agents will be required to donate 30% of the vending profits to the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI).
"We encourage the agents to take creative approaches to enhancing services to motorists who need to conduct business at a DMV agency: this is one of them," said Transportation Commissioner Frank J. Wilson. "The agents came up with the idea because it makes visits to their agencies a more pleasant experience."
Before making a final decision, policy and legal requirements regarding the existing state vending machine program had to be examined.
In 1992, a law was enacted transferring the State's vending machine program to the CBVI. Revenue from vending machines funds the CBVI's administrative costs and delivery of vision screening services to over 6,500 people throughout the state. The DMV private agents are exempt from operating under the program since they are private contractors.
"Although the agents are exempt from the program, profit sharing is the right thing to do," Wilson added. "While providing a convenience to DMV customers, we also are able to provide additional funds for the CBVI."
"Since 1992, the proceeds from vending machine sales have allowed CBVI to screen thousands of people around New Jersey for eye diseases that, left untreated, could lead to signficant loss of vision or blindness. I applaud the NJDOT and the DMV agents. Their efforts will help ensure the stability of CBVI's programs, protecting the sight of New Jersey's citizens," said Human Services Commissioner William Waldman.
The DMV customer service enhancement effort is designed to provide the motoring public with expanded customer-oriented services.
"From larger and more comfortable facilities--complete with restrooms, waiting lounges, receptionist area, and work spaces for employees processing transactions--to simple additions such as coffee and refreshment vending machines to accommodate the motorists, we are continually upgrading our agencies." said DMV Director C. Richard Kamin.
Agencies that were recently upgraded include Englewood (moved from Bergenfield), Irvington (relocated to a new building in the same town), and Medford (moved from Mount Holly). Negotiations are taking place for the relocation of the Rutherford agency to a site to be determined.
"Site location, accessibility to major roads and thoroughfares, and parking accommodations are essential," added Kamin. "All upgraded agencies are located on the ground floor to aid handicapped patrons. The bottom line of this initiative is customer service!"
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