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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-04-02-EC-minEnablement Committee Minutes April 2, 2003 Present: Jennifer Aliber, Barbara Barrows, Victoria Buckley, Charles Cole, Michael Novack Absent: Sue Cusack, Robert Harris, Richard Landau, Dan Murphy Preventing Erection of Architectural Barriers: Chuck Cole has written a draft letter and submitted to Michael Novack. C. Cole has also had a conversation with Bruce Bruno who was not aware that Stephen Baran had retired (and to whom Heather Sweeney should write informing him of Michael Novack's new position replacing Stephen). It is Bruno's belief that no new architectural barriers may be erected. A suggestion was made request assistance in this matter from Myra Berloff ( ?), Acting Director of MOD. Heritage Museum Concerns: Chuck Cole has also spoken with John Ott, Director of the Museum about the Liberty Ride and possible joint efforts in improving accessibility on the grounds of the Museum (i.e., through the creation of a gate in the Massachusetts Avenue wall). The HDC disapproved this proposal, thus hindering accessibility and Mr. Ott would like the Enablement Committee to accompany him to any future meetings with the HDC on this or related subjects. There may be opportunities to educate some members of the HDC on issues of accessibility. Massachusetts Buddhist Association: Jennifer Aliber to write letter to the Architectural Access Board recommending that a variance not be granted. Draft to 4. Novack. Wild and Woolly: A customer concern regarding the design of the payment area and treatment of guide dogs, if pursued, should be acted on with the ADA complaint procedure form. Issues Before Town Meeting Building Envelope: Voted to extend the time for DPW and Enablement Committee to meet and determine the type and extent of work on the interior of the Fire Station. DPW has no concrete plans or estimates, and there is significant pressure to reduce expenditures. The issues already noted include the path of travel from HC parking, access to the front door, and hallway width. Voting and the access to fire prevention materials and permits make the Fire Station a top priority. Victoria Buckley, Jennifer Aliber and DPW to fr �.d S F r meet next week at the Fire Station to try to assess the existing conditions and possible solutions. 7ohnmis, ton Standing: The members of Town Meeting are going to consider making the �' �i��sEnablement Committee into an Enablement Commission. Victoria Buckley has already presented to the Board of Selectmen. Although most members were supportive, Dawn McKenna abstained stating that she did not have enough information. Advantages of Commission status include a more formal and recognized position in the town, ability to after grants directly and independently, and the ability to accept gifts on behalf of the Town. In some other communities, a percentage of monies collected from fines are used to enhance efforts to promote accessibility. Votes on these issues tentatively scheduled for mid - April. Additional Goalsfor the New Year: Signage in public buildings might be a good candidate for the list of items to be considered. Next Meeting: 7 May 2003