The meeting began with Myra Ross addressing the formal status of the Disability Access Committee. Pamela Nolan-Young provided updates, stating that the town manager had drafted the committee charge, which would be presented in upcoming Town Council meetings. Jim Kruidenier raised concerns about the language in the draft charge, particularly the requirement for a family member of a person with a disability to be on the committee. He emphasized the need for nine members to maintain adequate representation, especially for people with disabilities. Pamela clarified that the draft allowed for flexibility in membership but did not specify a number, leading Jim to stress the importance of increasing the number of members to nine.

The discussion then shifted to the successful advocacy efforts concerning the PCA program, which had been under threat due to proposed cuts by Governor Healey. The legislature restored the necessary funds, and the final budget signed by Governor Healey ensured that the PCA program remains intact for individuals receiving 10 hours or less of support. This update was met with relief by the committee, highlighting the significance of their advocacy work.

The committee also addressed legislative changes regarding nursing homes and Medicaid. Massachusetts had previously pursued the estates of deceased Medicaid recipients to recover costs for nursing home care, a practice criticized for its impact on families. New legislation would prevent the state from going after these estates. The committee expressed concern about whether this change would fully encompass all Medicaid-funded services, including the PCA program.

A public comment segment featured Rob Eely, a digital accessibility advocate, who praised the new meeting format allowing for earlier public comments. Rob mentioned an event by the Massachusetts Office on Disability focused on ADA and digital accessibility, available on YouTube, and offered to share the link with the committee.

The conversation transitioned to accessibility improvements at Hickory Ridge, where the conservation committee presented plans for wheelchair-accessible pathways. A significant concern was the lack of public transportation options to the area. The committee proposed exploring the town’s silver van service to provide scheduled transportation, particularly for residents without personal vehicles. Haley, a representative from the silver van service, explained its current operations and challenges, including staffing and scheduling limitations. The committee emphasized the need for improved transportation solutions to fully realize the benefits of the new pathways.

Further discussions centered on the senior van service, known as the Silver Shuttle, which currently operates on a limited schedule. The committee discussed the logistics of the service and proposed advocating for additional funding to enhance its operational days. There was also a suggestion to involve volunteer drivers from local organizations, such as Amherst Neighbors, to help transport residents on days the Silver Shuttle isn’t operating. This idea sparked a discussion about the feasibility and necessary oversight to ensure safety.

The committee also discussed the status of a grant application for accessibility improvements at the Mson Library, with updates indicating that notification regarding the application’s status would occur in the fall.

Concerns were raised about crosswalks and accessibility challenges, particularly at the intersection of Triangle Street and East Pleasant Street. A location near the rotary was highlighted as problematic for individuals with mobility impairments. The need for a beacon to assist blind or visually impaired individuals was emphasized, with participants expressing frustration over the removal of a previously functional crosswalk with a traffic light.

The meeting also addressed proposed mask bans, with participants questioning the necessity and potential political motivations behind such legislation. The committee expressed a need for more information before forming a stance.

Finally, concerns were raised about the lack of updates on planned accessibility improvements at Town Hall. Miscommunication regarding responsibilities had created barriers to progress, and members stressed the need for continued advocacy to ensure necessary changes.