The Committee performed an accessibility audit of the Community Centre & Lions Hall from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The meeting was called to order at 11:04 a.m.

Steve Foglia in the Chair.

Additions & Corrections to the Agenda

None.

Declarations of Pecuniary Interest

None

Deputations / Presentations

1.

Presentation regarding Accessibility at the 2014 Municipal Election and Demonstration of Accessible Voting Equipment.

The Deputy Clerk provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding accessibility measures being implemented for the 2014 municipal election, including election objectives, voting locations and barrier removal measures being implemented, staff and volunteer training, communication plans, post-election reporting and next steps.  A demonstration of the accessible voting equipment was provided. 

Discussion ensued regarding barrier removal, including magnifying screens of different strengths, task lighting for the voting screen area and having the accessible tabulator on a height adjustable table.   There was also discussion regarding accessibility ambassadors and their role up to and including election day. 

Approval of Minutes

2.

Accessibility Advisory Committee Minutes of March 20, 2014.

Moved by Diane Bladek-Willett

Seconded by Wendi Williams-Gordon

THAT the Accessibility Advisory Committee Minutes of March 20, 2014 be approved.

Carried

Items for Discussion

3.

National Access Awareness Week Discussion.

The Committee reviewed and discussed plans and events for National Access Awareness Week.

·         National Access Awareness Week should be included in all calendars produced by the Town of Newmarket;

·         East Gwillimbury has been approached regarding partnership opportunities;

·         The draft brochure was distributed for review and revision;

·         The Newmarket Lions Club has been approached to hold a barbecue at the Celebrating Accessibility and Abilities’ event.

Moved by Ursula Rehdner

Seconded by Steve Foglia

The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends to Council:

THAT the Town of Newmarket proclaim June 1 – 7 as ‘National Access Awareness Week’.

Carried

4.

Accessibility Audit Discussion.

The Committee discussed hosting the next audit to correspond with the May 15, 2014 meeting date either at the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex or Magna Centre. 

Action Item List

5.

Action Item List Review.

The Action Item List Review was deferred to the next meeting.

New Business

None.

Adjournment

Moved by Wendi Williams-Gordon

Seconded by Diane Bladek-Willett

THAT the meeting adjourn.

Carried

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 1:04 p.m.