About the Commission
Created by the Administrative Code & State law reference: MGL c. 40, § 8J
Established
There shall be a Disability Commission consisting of nine members. A 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 shall be the liaison to the commission.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The commission shall research local problems of people with disabilities; advise and assist municipal officials and employees in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and regulations that affect people with disabilities; coordinate and/or carry out programs designed to meet the problems of people with disabilities in coordination with programs of the Massachusetts Office on Disability; review and make 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 coordinate activities of other local groups organized for similar purposes.
The Disability Commission is an advisory multiple-member body of the City.