ANNUAL TOWN REPORT FOR 2003
COMMISSION ON DISABILITY
In its tenth year of service, the Arlington Commission on Disability has continued to provide information, referral, guidance, and technical assistance to insure that people with physical, sensory, cognitive, and other disabilities have equal access to Town facilities, services, and programs. The Commission consists of nine Commissioners, all volunteers. State Law mandates that the majority of Commissioners have a disability. This mandate brings an intimate and informed understanding of disabilities to the Commission’s agenda and ultimate decisions.
Coordination and implementation of the Commission’s agenda and goals continues to be handled by Jack Jones of the Arlington Office of Housing and Disability Programs. Cooperation between the Commission and this Office is effective and efficient. On December 4, 2003, after nine years of service, Alan McClennen, Jr. resigned from the Commission. The Commission recognizes Alan for his support and his many accomplishments while serving as a member of the Commission. Alan’s regular presence and contributions at the monthly Commission Meetings will be greatly missed.
In 2003, the Commission continued to focus on and monitor a number of ongoing and important access issues. The Commission has received $67,000 of Community Development Block Grant Funds approved by the Board of Selectman for curb ramp work along Massachusetts Avenue. The Commission continues its efforts to improve sidewalk and crosswalk safety and accessibility.
Educating the community regarding disabilities is an ongoing agenda item of the Commission. The fifth annual newsletter was published and provided information about the Commission’s projects and Disability Laws. The Commission participated in Town Day to acquaint the public with its role and to disseminate information about the Americans with Disabilities Act and accessible Town programs and facilities. Coordination and sharing of information and ideas between the Arlington Commission on Disability and commissions from neighboring cities and towns is ongoing. The Arlington Disability Office, in concert with the Commission, manages resolutions of citizens concerns and complaints. Follow-up is done through the Disability Office using available municipal offices and
information.
The 2004 agenda for the Commission will continue to revolve around the very clear parameters of the American with Disabilities Act, with special attention being paid to improving the accessibility of Arlington sidewalks and polling place locations. The Commission will continue to monitor progress being made by the Arlington School Department regarding school facilities and school programs.
Arlington residents interested in serving on the Commission should notify the Town Manager in writing of their interest. The Commission meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 4:00 P.M. in the conference room of the Housing and Disability Program Office located in suite #203, at the Senior Center Building, 20 Academy St., Arlington. Meetings are open to the public and citizens are invited to attend.
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