Dear Editor,
I write to highlight the following on Watertown’s ADA survey. From the website:
ADA Survey
Help support Watertown and its commitment to accessibility. Watertown is working with Kessler McGuinness & Associates, LLC (KMA) to develop an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan to ensure residents and visitors have access to all facilities, programs, and services. An important part of this planning process is providing opportunities for the public and people with disabilities to offer input and voice concerns. This survey is intended to gather preliminary data to assist the planning team in identifying and prioritizing any barriers to access for individuals with disabilities at Watertown’s facilities or within the programs and services it currently offers. Please complete the survey, which is open from February 24, through March 24, 2025.
Survey: https://watertown-ma.gov/1476/Americans-with-Disabilities-Act-Self-Eva
Access the Survey: If you prefer to complete a paper survey, or ff you need assistance in completing this survey please contact ADA Coordinator, Patrick George, at 617-972-6416 or pgeorge@watertown-ma.gov.
Thank you for your time and support.
If you are a person with disabilities or someone who cares for and aids said person, then please fill out this important survey. At the Feb. 25 City Council Meeting, they decided to proceed with the hiring of a Health and Human Services Director. This person will be responsible for all kinds of human service needs — disability, housing, food security, etc.
The director’s first task will be to assess the situation in the City, and this but one tool for any such assessment. I have asked that a position, such as Director of Disability Services be created. While we currently have Mr. George who is tasked with ADA compliance and providing Veteran Services, he will need help since this category is broad and will impact most people some time in their lifetimes.
The City needs to understand how to integrate persons with disabilities into the community. This is different from diversity which is about inviting people in, and inclusion which is about asking people to participate. This is about weaving lives into that of others. Think about how the City can do that.
- Do we need sign language interpreters at events? Which events?
- Do we need Watertown to get into pilot studies for drugs, medical devices and equipment?
- Do we need closed captioning, headphones assist devices, and more braille signs at more places and events?
- Do you need more assistance with job searching and coaching, elections and voting, maneuvering the city, childcare, help with elderly parents, pets, property repairs, adult education, etc.?
- Do you need the Police Department, Fire Department, EMTs, Live Well Watertown, the Library/Hatch and the City Council to hold yearly sessions with you to inform you of available services and for you to provide feedback?
- How can businesses like the banks, theaters, restaurants, salons and others be helpful?
- Does Watertown need very local medical clinics, a collection of aide devices, wider sidewalks, self-driving cars, etc.?
Thanks,
Rita Colafella
Watertown Resident