About the Commission
Created by the Administrative Code & State law reference: MGL c. 40, § 8J: The Disability Commission consists of nine members. As established by code, "the majority of commission members shall consist of people with disabilities; one member shall be a member of the immediate family of a person with a disability, and one member of said commission shall be an elected official." The City’s Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator, housed in the Office of Planning & Sustainability, staffs the Commission. The Commission is an advisory body of the City.
Authorities and Responsibilities: The commission researches local problems of people with disabilities; advises and assists municipal officials in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and regulations that affect people with disabilities; coordinates and/or carries out programs designed to meet the problems of people with disabilities in coordination with programs of the Massachusetts Office on Disability; reviews and makes recommendations about policies, procedures, services, activities and facilities of departments, boards, and agencies of the City of Northampton as they affect people with disabilities; provide information, referrals, guidance and technical assistance to individuals, public agencies, businesses and organizations in all matters pertaining to disabilities, and coordinates activities of other local groups organized for similar purposes.
On October 2, 2020, Mayor David J. Narkewicz approved the ADA Self-Evaluation & Transition Plan and Section 504 Plan. This major update to the City's last transition plan could not have been done without the input, advocacy, and expertise of the Disability Commission. This document is a renewal to the City's commitment to ensuring that there is equal access to all of the City's programs, services, and activities for people with disabilities. This plan will also be used to apply for future Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) grants.
