2016-02-04-COD-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commission on Disability Meeting Minutes February 4, 2016 Members Present: Victoria Buckley, Chair; Nate Finch; Julie Miller; Len Morse-Fortier; Francine Stieglitz; Janet Perry; Michael Martignetti; Sue Cusack Town Liaisons: Fred Lonardo, Building Commissioner; Joe Pato, Chair, Board of Selectmen; Linda Vine, Deputy Town Manager; Harry Mackay, Council on Aging Guests: Shaun Grady, resident; Matthew Kovner, resident; Mark Connors; Jason Ek, Waldorf School (WS) Business Manager; Paul Menz, WS Building Manager; Lisa Pecora-Ryan, WS OMR; Kevin Hastings, Sullivan Code Group, Agenda: Presentation by Waldorf School for renovating a bathroom on ground floor – Note that Waldorf School Director Robert Schiappacasse was unable to attend so other Waldorf representatives presented plans A multi-phase plan was shared to improve the accessibility and ADA compliance at the Waldorf School. In the short-term plan, or the second phase, the plans included the renovation of the basement level bathrooms, making the rear entrance accessible, and updating the water fountains to meet ADA guidelines. The first phase of their plan involves the installation of an elevator, which would provide access to all levels of the building. They need more time to fund raise for this part of the project but are optimistic that this is possible. The third phase included expansion of the facility for a preschool. They are committed to the accessibility of the complete building. This project has to go to AAB at which point the commission will need to formally respond, but initial reaction is positive and we are encouraged by the School’s inclusive long-term plan to address the access considerations. Presentation about sidewalk in Center Streetscape project – guest Mark Connors from Robinson Hill Neighborhood Nextdoor Community Site Mark Connors offered a presentation with a counter proposal to the existing agreed upon Streetscape proposal to integrate concrete as the path of travel and brick as wayfinding trim. He proposed that brick is more in keeping with the historical design as established in the 1960’s. He also suggested that brick is more durable over time, and that if installed properly can meet the technical requirements of the ADA. He showed mock-ups of what the concrete would look like in the Center. He also stated that concrete wears badly and needs more maintenance than bricks, which the Commission has been told by Town Engineers is incorrect.