HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-04-26-EC-min\pes Social Services MO gNi
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Heather Hartshorn Sweeney, Director of Social Services Tel: (781) 861 -0194
Fax: (781) 863 -2271
Enablcment Committee Minutes
April 26, 2002
Present: Committee members: Barbara Barrows; Chuck Cole; Sue Cusack; Bob Harris; Richard Landau;
Dan Murphy; Pam Varrin, Liaison, Recreation Committee; Steve Baran, ADA Coordinator and
Recorder; Guests: Joint Fedorochlm; Billy Hockett
Absent: Jennifer Aliber
John Fedorochlco expressed his concerns about bathrooms and entrances that were not accessible in town. He
suggested that the committee publicize those places which were handicap accessible and the
Building Cormmissioner be equipped with a checklist of what to look for as well as have required
in his job description that he be properly ADA - qualified. Barbara Barrows suggested meeting with
the Chamber of Commerce whi to Sue Cusack suggested that these issues were part of an overall
plan being developed by the committee. System principles instanced by Joint and committee
members included: knowledge, commitment, management structure, quality control and
certification.
Billy Hockett had a complaint about arrangements for persons accompanying an individual with disabilities in the
National Heritage Museum auditorium. It was agreed that Steve Baran would investigate further
with the NHM. Sue Cusack suggested that the Museum should have policy guidelines that would
respond to these concerns.
Sue Cusack proposed sdrategic planning for eventual review by Rick White and Selectmen. The planning would
include: 1. Hiring a paid and full-time ADA Commissioner; 2. Accountability of Town staff for
ADA requirements; 3. Professional development with training of inspectors; 4. Consultant
updating of 1993 ADA audit; 5. Triage system for processing complaints; 6. Redefinition of
committee charge which at present only refers to physical disabilities and allows for no connection
with other conmiittees; 7. Division of labor within committee so that members' strengths would be
reflected in their assignments; 8. Development of pros and cons of committee vs. commission
status; 9. Positive reinforcement of structure and functions by Town Manager; 10. Priority for
violations of ADA regulations vs. "human response" when concerns should be referred elsewhere;
11. Protocol for review of architectural plans to preclude "chasing after" them; 12. Understanding
of committee and ADA coordinator's roles before and after building permit is issued. It was
suggested that different committee members team up to draft portions of the foregoing.
Sue suggested that in relation to the issuing of a victualer's and other similar permits that ADA
compliance should be required. Chuck Cole said he would inquire about a model ADA
Commission in operation since he was planning to attend a Mass. Office on Disability conference
on April 27. Michael Miele of Cambridge ADA would also be consulted.
Pain Varrin reported on Ole Res ADA compliance with new signage being put up at strategic points. Bob Harris
expressed concern about the inadequacy of stone dust surface on the road around the reservoir for
wheelchair users. Pam said that the stone dust surface was installed to discourage vehicles from
using the road.
Nextrneefrng: Friday, May 24, at
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1475 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE • LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02,120