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Home My WebLink About2026-01-20-COD-min.docx Commission on Disability Meeting Minutes for January 20, 2026 Members: Victoria Buckley (Chair), Sue Cusack, Shaun Grady, Leonard Morse-Fortier, Janet Perry, John Rossi, Francine Stieglitz, Nancy Wong Town Liaisons: Juanica Buchanon, Clinical Engagement and Community Equity Officer; Joe Pato, Select Board; Jim Kelly, Building Inspector Committee Liaisons: Rod Cole, Capital Expenditures Committee; Pam Lyons, Center Committee; Stephanie Hsu, Human Rights Committee Guests: Dana Bickelman, Director of Human Services; Karen Mullins, Conservation Director; Ruth Ladd, Conservation Commission Chair; Maggie Peard, Sustainability and Resilience Officer Announcements and review of minutes No minutes available for review. Waste Reduction Taskforce Presentation, by Maggie Peard, Sustainability and Resilience Officer  Maggie presented plans for changes to Lexington's waste collection system, focusing on moving to automated collection with standard bin sizes to address rising costs due to limited waste disposal capacity in Massachusetts. She discussed options for handling excess waste beyond the standard bin size, including overflow bags, additional bins, and potential drop-off locations. Maggie emphasized the town's commitment to creating an inclusive program that accommodates residents with disabilities, seniors, low-income households, and larger families. The town plans to gather feedback from residents through public meetings and displays of bin options to determine the most suitable size for the community.  John opposed due to concerns about fairness to people with disabilities, low income, and young children. John suggested exempting households with disabilities and low income from fees. Nancy agreed and shared a personal example of high trash production shared by families with babies and the care issues of seniors. John argued against implementing fees for recycling, citing low recycling rates in Massachusetts, and suggested that Lexington's current system is effective.  Sue raised concerns about recycling bin sizes, particularly for households with large recycling volumes, and suggested avoiding mandatory opt-down/opt-up options with associated fees. The discussion highlighted ongoing challenges with recycling container designs and food waste storage.  The group discussed the need for both local and state-level action on waste management. Victoria suggested that further questions be directed to Maggie via email, mpeard@lexingtonma.gov.  A Waste Reduction and Modernization Lunch and Learn has been scheduled for th March 19 from 11:30 – 12:30. This meeting will be filmed by LexMedia if people are unable to attend in person. Discussion about Willard’s Woods – led by Commission on Disability member Shaun Grady with Karen Mullins, Conservation Director, and Ruth Ladd, Conservation Commission Chair  Shaun presented satellite images and maps of Willard's Woods to discuss potential improvements. He proposed two options: creating a new loop trail near the bridle path and constructing an observation deck over a seasonal pond.  Karen explained that a previous proposal from 2024 included plans for ADA- compliant trails, a wooden platform near the pond, and improvements to an eroded bridle path. The project had been through the Conservation Commission for permitting, but the wetland loop proposal was withdrawn in November 2024 due to concerns about boardwalk costs and environmental impact. The current discussion centered around whether to implement one loop or two, with Shaun clarifying that no loop was currently planned for the area.  The group discussed a proposed path improvement project, with Karen explaining that approved plans included a path to Hathaway with accessible parking, though construction was delayed due to staffing. Shaun inquired about exploring an alternative loop path through the Brent Road meadow, which Karen noted would require additional survey work and design review. Leonard located the existing construction documents online, and Shaun shared his view of the proposed path route, which would traverse wetlands requiring a boardwalk. The group agreed to continue the discussion at the next meeting as members needed more time to consider the proposal. Update on Munroe Center for the Arts Renovation Project by Cristina Burwell, Executive Director  Cristina provided an update on the renovation project, which is progressing with an elevator shaft now above her window and wheelchair-accessible restrooms being installed on every floor. She mentioned that the project, which began in August, is expected to be completed by November, though summer is more likely. Cristina also discussed plans for a permanent tent and stage at the front of the building, which have been slowed down due to neighbor feedback. The project includes accessibility improvements, such as a ramp for the stage and accessible flooring under the tent. Two community charrettes are scheduled for February, and Cristina encouraged everyone to check the Monrocenter.org website for monthly updates on the construction progress. Update on MA France at 46 Massachusetts Avenue  The bakery is attempting to extend their space from take-out to a dine-in and takeout service. A change of this kind would require that they have an accessible bathroom. The space currently grandfathered and does not have an accessible entrance. Len and Jim met with the owner to explore what it would take to make the front accessible. In looking over the options in the front, Len and Jim identified a way to make the property accessible but it would require a collaboration with the town and its sidewalk. Jim said he would reach out to David Pinsonneault at the DPW. New Business: Jim Kelly  1707 Mass Ave used to be Craft Cleaners; a new business is going in, and plumbing and building codes are converging. The new owner is making changes to accommodate accessibility. Communication with the plumbing inspector also helped to advance our mission and further advance accessibility.  MBTA Projects are required to have trash chutes that are open to the public, outside the units which means they have to be accessible. Dana Bickelman  She asked if the second round of a survey for an employer workshop could be posted on the Commission on Disability's website. We approved that request.  She mentions that an offer had been extended to a candidate for a part-time community engagement coordinator position, and the Commission agreed to meet the new hire at their next meeting. 7:11pm Adjourned – Unanimous Vote Minutes submitted by Sue Cusack