The Watertown Commission on Disability (WCOD)
Massachusetts General Law section 8J of Chapter 40 provides for the creation of a town COMMISSION ON
DISABILITY, _“to cause the full integration and participation of people with disabilities.” _ In February 1994 the Watertown Town Council – through an ordinance (#94-04) created Watertown’s Commission on Disability.
WHO WE ARE
The nine member commission consists of :
- Town residents with disabilities who make up the majority
- A representative from the town council
- A guardian with a child or family member with a disability
The Commission on Disability is committed to promoting full access to town and community services, programs, and businesses for all individuals with disabilities. Please see our Mission Statement for more information.
If you are interested in becoming a member and meet the above criteria, please contact us by one of the methods listed below:
- Phone 617.972.6443 Gayle Shattuck ADA Liaison
- Fax 617.972.6404 Attn: Gayle Shattuck ADA Liaison
- Email: gshattuck@ci.watertown.ma.us
WHAT WE DO
The Commission sponsors activities and programs encouraging municipal and community services, programs, and businesses in Watertown to be fully accessible to individuals with disabilities.
The Commission provides advocacy, trainings, educational materials, and consultation in its effort to serve all people equally. Our accomplishments include, but are not limited to:
Watertown Disability – Friendly Business Program
A brochure created to educate businesses on their obligations to provide access for all individuals with disabilities. This guide will be available to download in pdf format soon. A hardcopy is available by contacting the town ADA Liason Gayle Shattuck. The commission also provides consultation and advocacy on an as-needed basis.
Accessible Dining Guide
Developed by the Commission, a popular guide to local restaurants noting the accessibility, locations, and services provided by each restaurant. The guide is in its second edition, and is available to download in PDF format. It is also available in hard copy, large print, Braille and audio tape by contacting Gayle Shattuck, Watertown ADA Liaison. View the updated online version of the guide.
Disability Awareness
The Commission has developed and presented a two-hour training for all Watertown employees. The Commission provides ongoing consultation to all town departments, the town council and other governmental boards, commissions, and committees.
Snow Removal Ordinance
Requiring businesses in Watertown to provide a clear travel path for all persons on sidewalks. The Snow Ordinance is available by clicking on the link: Snow Ordinace. Hard copies are available at the administration building 149 Main street Watertown 02472
RESPONSIBILITIES
Some of the responsibilities of the Commission on Disability and based on our Mission Statement includes but is not limited to:
- Research local problems affecting persons with disabilities
- Advise and assist the town’s administration and elected officials regarding disability issues.
- Monitor and ensure compliance with state and federal laws, rules, and regulations affecting people with disabilities.
- Coordinate and implement programs designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities and their families.
- Provide information, referrals, guidance, resources and technical assistance on all matters pertaining to disability.
- Support activities of other local groups organized for similar purposes.
The members of the Commission on Disabilities for 2006/2007 are:
Chairperson – George Donahue
Kim Charlson, Anne Doughty, Andrea Greenwood, Bob Hall, Alex Liazos, Carol Menton and Marilyn Pettito-Devaney (ex-officio)
ADA Liaison- Gayle Shattuck