2010 Town Report - Town of Ludlow

COMMISSION ON DISABILITY
MEMBERS
Beverly Barry, Chairman
Joanne Odato-Staeb, Vice Chairman
John Ollson, Secretary
Lizbeth Boulanger
Andrew Bristol
Donald Couture, ADA Coordinator
Federal law defines a disability as “any physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the
major life activities of an individual”. The 2000 Ludlow census revealed that many Ludlow residents are disabled.
The figures showed that among those ages 5 – 20, 9.3% are disabled, among those ages 21 – 64, the rate increases to
19.2% and then further rises to 39.8% in those ages 65 and over. These numbers are staggering and are gradually
increasing every year.
The Ludlow Commission on Disability was established by the Board of Selectmen, in accordance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act, to help ensure that those individuals with disabilities are considered and included
in all aspects of community life, including access to all municipal services, programs, meetings and employment
opportunities.
In addition to receiving complaints and suggestions regarding accessibility throughout the Town, the Commission
remains busy throughout the year reviewing plans submitted to the Planning Board for new construction or additions
to determine accessibility for all new public buildings by all patrons. Working closely with the Building
Commissioner, compliance issues are reviewed with suggestions for possible improvements. We also investigate
grievances regarding the access to public buildings and services and can help facilitate problem resolution to achieve
reasonable accommodations.
Two major goals of the Commission on Disability are education and increasing public awareness. We have
produced an informational brochure available at town hall. This past year we have been busy working with the
Architectural Access Board in Boston following up on suggestions to local business access along with religious
organizations. We continue our relationship with the Celebrate Ludlow committee in ensuring festivities are
accessible to all and to increase parking for the disabled in closer proximity to the celebration and the addition of
accessible shuttle transportation to the site. We also met with Selectmen and Haviland Pond Committee in
explaining the access to playground equipment at the beach area of Haviland Pond. Commission members continue
to work together with HAP, Inc. to discuss accessibility in the renovation of the Stevens Memorial building into
senior housing. Guidance was given in handicapped parking, drop off points, and unit access. We look forward to
working with HAP, Inc. in creating more accessible, affordable housing. Members also continue to work in "getting
the word out" regarding the Commission on Disability and how we can help the citizens of Ludlow in accessing
programs, services and buildings. Access to recreational activities sponsored in the Town or by the Town is a key
priority for the commission. As you can see, it’s been a busy year for the Commission on Disability!
As we serve our community, we welcome, and encourage you, the citizens, to enlighten us on possible physical or
service related barriers in Town. We are here to assist wherever we can in making Ludlow’s services available to
all. We also invite you to attend our monthly meetings which are held every third Thursday of the month at Town
Hall, first floor. If you would like to join us as a member, please contact the Selectmen’s office at 583-5600.
In closing, I would personally like to thank those on the Commission who share their time, knowledge and
dedication in helping Ludlow grow to be a community that is equally accessible to all.
Respectfully submitted,
Beverly Barry
Chairman
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