you fold and then >> Good afternoon. This is Gail Sharet and I'm calling this meeting of the Yamoth Commission on Disability to order at 3:05 p.m. Sarah, will you now please read the open meeting law? >> Sure. Thank you.
>> Um Drew, do you mind grabbing the door? Thank you. Um this is to formally advise that as required by Mass General Law chapters 30A sections 18 to 25 and pursuant to chapter 20 of the acts of 2021 an act
relative to extending certain CO 19 measures adopted during the state of emergency signed into law on June 16, 2021 as extended by chapter 2 of the acts of 2023. The Yarmouth Commission on Disability will hold a public meeting on Thursday, January 9th, 2025 at 3 PM at
Yarmouth Town Hall. The public is welcome to attend either in person or via the alternative public access provided on the agenda, aka Zoom. Um, we're now turning to the first item on the agenda. Before we do so, permit me to cover some ground rules for effective
and clear conduct of our business and to ensure accurate meeting minutes. The chair will introduce each speaker on the agenda. If you're participating remotely, please remember to unmute your microphone my computer when you're recognized to speak so you can clearly
um I don't think you need to worry about muting unless you feel the need Glenn because you're the only one on Zoom. So, um but if you're obviously if you do mute yourself, just remember to unmute yourself if you're if you need to speak. Um when a participant wishes to
interject a question or comment, please wave your hand either physi either physically or remotely and ask to be recognized and we will now proceed with the meeting. As a preliminary matter, I will confirm for the record the members and staff present and that they can hear
me. Members, when I call your name, please respond in the affirmative. Gail Sheret, chair. >> Yes. Jean Bole, vice chair. Thank you. Drew Krauss >> here. Glenn Martin on Zoom. >> Thank you. Jessica Simmons
>> here. >> Staff, when I call your name, please respond in the affirmative. Sarah O'Reilly, director of human resources >> here. >> Thank you. >> Um, who's taking minutes today? >> That's what I was going to say. Okay. Sorry. >> Somebody No, no. >> Um, I forgot to reach out to Jessica. It
was your turn to take minutes. >> I took minutes last time. >> Oh, you did? >> I did. >> Oh, >> I think Drew was last time and Jessica >> Oh, no. cuz I wasn't here in December. Yeah. >> Okay. So then >> neither both of us are hoping not to have to do it.
>> Well, I mean, >> we're the two best candidates >> with my teeny little notebook. I can >> Well, someone has to take minutes because I I can't write. >> I have a little rock paper scissors here for >> two three. >> I'll take the minutes.
>> Thank you. So, Drew's taking minutes. Beautiful. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Okay, so uh Glenn, he's on Zoom, so somebody has to watch out for him when he w raises his hand so he can >> Oh, he can screech, too.
>> I can screech. >> Oh, good. Okay. So, just speak up. Okay. >> Don't be afraid. >> Yeah, don't be afraid. Speak up. All right. Um so on the agenda we usually we have the tracker system but today we we're not going to be uh mentioning anything
about the tracker system. >> Um >> can I just interject? We skipped public comment. Did anyone have public comment at all? >> To interject >> public comments anybody? >> No I I do. >> Oh go ahead.
>> Um I want to introduce Jennifer King. um she is our new HR and benefits administrator for the town and she's going to be working with me and human resources. So >> nice nice meeting you Jennifer. Yes. >> Hi Jenn. >> Could you just repeat that your exact
title again for the minutes? What what is your title? >> HR and benefits administrator. >> Okay. So um before we begin I just want to make mention tomorrow marks the disability commission's fifth anniversary. On January 10th 2020 five appointees two
members of the age friendly committee and Diane Kaine met at the Yam Senior Center center to discuss the reorganization and rebuilding of the once defunct disability commission. Chhattam members envision Yamoth as a
welcoming community that emphasizes integration, inclusiveness, inclusiveness, and accessibility. Today, this vision has become a reality because amazing people that have joined uh this commission and provided their time,
their skill skill and services to promote disability inclusion, public awareness, accessibility, and accommodations for all. To celebrate this milestone and acknowledge the individual who restored the commission,
the Evelyn M. Beiel impact award was created. And we will be discussing more of this um towards the end of the uh meeting. And the second announcement I'd like to make is the 13 uh 41 route 28 variance
meeting. They will have um the um meeting mass dot will have a meeting on February 24th on Zoom. And to refresh the memory, I I will read from the November me minutes on discussed
as I find it. Okay. Corner Clifford. uh he's the civil engineer had spoken to us and uh the minutes compiled this information. Roadway improvement project being led by
Mass Dot is proposing a roadway widening and construction of a a shared use uh path along Route 28 building uh frontage. The proposed roadway project project is designed to comply with
MAB/ADA regulations for cross slope. The existing roadway elevation is being raised 3 in at the location to reduce the impacts of the grade change at this
property. In order to design accordingly the proposed elevation of the two doorway thresholds at the northeast corner of 1341 Route 28 are being followed by se are being lowered by 7 in.
A new step is being proposed to one of the far east entrances, the village coin and metals um building uh not building company. Each build each being 7 in thus eliminating the accessible entrance
entrance. Quest stated that in order to maintain an ADA regulated slope, the ramp length would not end at the street would have to end at the street. So Yamoth came back, I shouldn't say Yamoth, the Yamoth Commission came back
with a um an um an idea and they wanted to um propose this to the um and they brought it to the mascot, right? And what what it said was this Yamoth Commission on Disability Final thoughts. It is not the
position of Yamoth Commission on Disability to support creating a situation which prevents accessibility to a business and our community. Should the project move forward, we would request that yet um Massdot provide
alternative methods of accessibility, including but not limited to a portable ramp, handrails, and or other methods available. When we left the meeting, there were a lot of us that were kind of like
thinking or probably I I would say upset because we had to make a decision that we knew that it it is in the best interest of people with disabilities.
So I use this thought as for putting it like a putting it on the tracker. If we had received this from a concerned citizen, we would have investigated it, right? Okay. So, with a little investigation,
um I did reach out to a gentleman that has a business. um he he's a representative and basically what it is is that they provide mobility equipment
for residential uses and commercial uses. There's a um there's some idea uh steps that they have that's called a flex step that converts from a stairway into actually a platform. It's very
interesting. I don't know the cost. I don't know if it can be used at this facility, but it's just an idea. So, I reached out to him and he's going to get back to us to see if it can be done. We sent him the plans. I sent him the, you
know, the information that was given to us and we're just going to look it over and if I don't hear from him this week, I'll give him a call the beginning of next week because I figured during the holidays and everything, I didn't want to bother him. >> So, please. >> Yeah. Just for the record, can you let the committee know um the name of the
organization that you're referring to? >> Yes. It's the 101 um mobility. >> That's the name of the business. >> That's the name of the business, right? Yeah. >> Who would incur the cost? I'm the business owner. >> Well, here's this other thing. We don't
know the cost, right? We don't, you know, and and there and we're just going to grab the information, get the information, and just, you know, present it to the various meaning if if if at all we can do anything. >> What do you think about that?
>> What what is it that they could provide possibly? >> Well, it's called a flex step. >> A flex step. >> Yes. Yes. >> I do have a picture of it. >> So, how does that work? >> How do How does a flex step work?
>> Okay. Show the picture. >> It's Yeah, it's So your idea is to let the town know this thing exists or let >> let the mass do know. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Or he say if that that may not even you
know that may not be applicable if it's not um commercial on a commercial site but he's going to look into other things for us. He's willing to do that. This is his business. Why can't I get you know Oh, here we go. Here you go.
This is what the step looks like, right? Okay. >> Like a regular step. You can show it. Pass that around. >> Okay. >> And show. >> So, Gail, do you >> Hang on a second. >> I You see that?
>> That's something you can He's not going to be Glenn's not going to be able to see it. >> No, he can't see it. There's no way he can hold that. >> Yeah. So, I think like >> Google it. Google 101 mobile in the future. We just probably need to like because I could if I had it on my
computer, I could share it on the screen for the purposes of the meeting. >> Okay. >> So, it would just might be something to think about. >> Okay. No, I'll do that next. I wasn't Yeah, >> this time we can include it in the minutes. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah.
>> Where did this originate? >> Can I have that please? Did they make >> it to us? >> Mass do. >> How would it >> What's that? >> It originate this
>> there. So the mass mass department of transportation is >> a ramp >> widening flat ramp >> route 28 >> in front of this business. >> Okay. And by virtue of doing so, it's
going to lessen the accessibility of the business that is right at that intersect. And so as part of their procedure, or I don't I'm assuming it's probably their requirement. They are to notify the
local commission on disability of their intent and they ask for comment. So that's what we've done. You know, we discussed it a couple meetings ago or what have you. >> So then in in followup to that, Gail was
giving it more thought and reached out to, you know, did a little research and found this um organization and reached out to them to see, you know, if this is something that they would be able to make a recommendation on or, you know, to to make it more
accessible. So that's that's where we are. So the idea I think that Gail had was to you know obtain the information that they can provide as to whether this um you know they have equipment that would
work and if so to share that information with the mass DOT as a recommendation to um ensure accessibility for this business despite this construction. Does that summarize? Yeah, it's perfect. Yeah, good.
>> And you know, basically um the equipment is called flex step and lift and in a single solution converts to a platform for persons in wheelchairs or cannot climb stairs with a push of a button. I mean, you know,
if you don't try, you're not going to find, you know, get anywhere. So, we'll see what happens. And what we'll do is um if anyone can attend that meeting, we'd appreciate it and we'll keep in I'll keep in touch with everybody. And I reached out to John Mitchell because
he's very savvy on, you know, all this stuff um architectural things. So, I'm going to have him talk to this gentleman and they can decide it because I I have no clue. I'm just, you know, I just think about these things and I figured, you know, and John said he'd be more
than happy to help out. And so if and if anybody else wants to help out, please, you know, contact us and we'll be more than happy to do something. So that's it for that one. >> Is anyone planning to attend the February 24th? >> That's why I should have asked that question.
>> What meeting is the >> Yes, that's on Zoom and it's on February 24th. >> I'd like to um without my calendar in front of me. >> Yeah, I'm interested in that. But I I would like to be there. Yeah.
>> I'm not too sure what what time did it say on Zoom. >> Yeah. A Zoom thing. So, we just got a link, >> right? >> John said at the last meeting he was hoping to attend that. >> See, I don't understand this about the
variance hearings. I have no clue what the I mean, I read this and I I don't understand this. Who is you know who who is who's make who's making the um variance to the
>> the architectural access board I believe is who the he >> No, but I mean like it's but did the Yamoth town ask for the variance? >> No, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. Um, Route 28 is a I believe Route 28's a
state. It's a state situation that they're widening the road. >> Okay. >> And >> you know, Route 28, the Yarmouth stretch of Route 28 is being revamped greatly. >> Yeah. >> The Department of Transportation,
>> right? And including like bike trails and stuff like that, right? >> That's why I was kind of like Hi, John. >> Hi, John. >> We're volunteering. >> Here you go. Right here, John.
>> Oh, come on. Put that right in front of me. Huh? >> That's all Gail. >> I baked him. >> Wrapped him up. >> Okay. Well, John, you you you just missed out
on this whole thing that we were talking about, unfortunately. But, um, I'll fill you in real quick. >> My loss. >> Yeah, the flex step. >> Oh, yeah. That was neat. >> Yeah. So, what we're going to do is we're going to um pursue it >> and get back to the board because
there's a meeting coming up at on Zoom in 20 the 4th. We'll be talking before this. Let's carry on with the agenda and maybe we can talk after. >> Yeah. So, see now next on the item is the LCP.
That's the planning board local comprehensive plan. I'm not sure if everybody got a um an email as it's a questionnaire and um I'm going to refer to Jean on that. >> Okay. Everyone should have a copy.
Uh, yeah, I did a beautiful job typing that. All the questions were in red and then I put it out and the red disappeared. >> Sorry, >> it looks so excuse me one second. Glenn,
you should have received this by email from me. I believe >> this is the local comprehensive plan questionnaire. Um, did when when did you send that out? How long ago?
>> January 2nd. Um, January second, apparently. Gail's all over it. Okay. >> So, Gail and I answered the questions and we would like all of you to take it
home and fill in you think should be here and and we'll submit it to submit it. >> Right. Right. They really want our input. So, you know, whatever you can think of, even a wish list, it doesn't matter. just put
it on there. >> So, this is this is just so I'm clear on what you're handing out right now because this is different. It looks like Sorry, I thought >> I thought this was what I emailed, but this is not. It looks like >> what you did is you took the
questionnaire and you you put your comments on it and that's what you're handing out. So, in that case, Glenn doesn't have a copy of this. >> No, he has a cop No, but he has a copy of the questionnaire. Okay. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. This came up just yet. >> So, if you could email either Gail or
me. >> And >> when did she say her meeting is? >> The meeting is at the end of the month. January. >> It's January 29th, 6:00 here at town hall. >> So, we would like to have this information to us on January 22nd, no later, so that we can compile everything
and then we can send it to her because then she has to put it to her. Alternatively, this went out to every individual committee member, right? So, it they can respond and and get it back on their own as well. Correct. Like this
was >> Yeah, but I think it'd be better if we come back as a as a group this way. It's it's so >> it's just we don't have another meeting between now and when it's due. No, but to No, but if it mean >> but I think it would be better if all of
our recommendations went >> at once in this form of >> rather than individually. >> Okay. >> It's a good idea for us to email you and Gail our answers our our ideas >> rather than mail email them.
>> This is similar to the email back. >> The questions are the same. The answers were not on my email. Right. >> So Gail and Jean put their responses in. >> So I'm just trying to like think about the fact that for these meetings, if
we're going to continue to have them as hybrid, >> then we need to be mindful that all the materials are out to, you know what I mean? Like so that everybody has the is looking at the same thing. You know what I mean? because it
gets tricky when you're the one on Zoom and you're kind of not >> seeing the same information. Do you know what I mean? >> Mhm. >> So that's that's all. >> Okay. So then let's think about this. >> Just thinking about future reference like we can't really change it today, but
>> No, but like should we then should we ask Let's do this. the folks that haven't submitted anything, would you want to would you be willing to give your comments directly to Kathy
or is it easier for you to look at what is putting down here was is written down and then you know instead of re what I'm thinking about is that you may be thinking about the same thing and you know it's kind of crazy you know I mean look at what is suggested and then add
to it you know I like the ladder. >> What's easier? >> Add to it. >> Add to it. >> Yeah. Would it be okay if we took a minute for me to just read through this out loud? >> Yes. >> Would that be okay? Just so we're all on the same page. Then you then people can >> Okay.
>> Yeah. Okay. >> All right. >> So, question one, what are the most pressing key issues impacting services and participation for persons with disabilities and overall accessibility in our community? The response here is A. Handicap parking is not monitored and
charged. B not all public building entrances are accessible. C. Not all store aisles are the accessible width. D. Not all restaurants have accessible seating and restrooms. Question number two, what is the
disability commission working on now to address these pressing issues? From January through April 2024, the disability commission surveyed all town-owned buildings for accessibility and submitted reports to the town manager and select board. We are now in
the process of conducting access surveys in privately owned buildings used by the public. Number three, what actions do you think the town should undertake in the next 5 to 10 plus years to further the needs and issues related to program services and activities for disabled
persons and improving accessibility. A to correct and/or improve town buildings and according to the Yarmouth Commission on Disability Survey reports. B to ticket and find all illegal parking and handicap spots. C. To build a
walking trail that meets ADA standards. D. Build an indoor swimming pool complete with ramp and chairlift or partner with a local business that has an indoor pool. >> Number four. Anything else you would like to share or believe is a critical issue for our community. A the town of
Yarmas should encourage, monitor, advise, and support all new and old buildings open to the public regarding access. Some people think that only new construction and alterations need to be accessible and that older facilities are grandfathered, but that is not true.
Because the ADA is a civil rights law and not a bu building quote, older facilities are often required to be accessible to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate. State and local government's ADA obligations for program
accessibility are in the Department of Justice's ADA Title 3 Regulations 28 CFR part 35.150 B. Why Commission on Disability should partner with other organizations, agencies, and nonprofits such as the
Senior Center, PTA, Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce. C. Communication with the town citizens needs more attention, letting them know that Yarmouth Commission on Disability is one resource to use to find answers and to resolve local issues
concerning the disability community. So these are so you took Kathy's questions and you asked them in a little bit of a different way. is that >> no. Uh what we did was well
>> just come up with ideas and I mentioned to Kathy a lot of it is just like maybe you know beyond what or not exactly what she was asking and and she said that was fun because she just wants to focus you know you just want to like have a broad understanding
um because some of these questions really did not apply I don't think to what we really I mean I read it and I couldn't understand like I didn't understand that one. Let me >> some of the things that are being asked
are basically 2021 there's a vision plan almost the identical questions. So what we're doing is establishing a plan and a direction >> to strive towards versus just >> right >> and it's a local comprehensive plan. So
she's asking multiple stakeholders holders and citizens to participate. So the scope of the local comprehensive plan goes beyond accessibility. But then you're trying to take those questions
and um elicit some feedback from this commission that she could feed into the feedback for the local comprehensive plan. Is that correct? >> Yeah. We're just, you know, like just throwing some ideas out. Yeah, you know, basically and and another thing that that was not included here,
>> um, which we'll put on the paper was >> if somebody needs to find a resource, it's really difficult. You have to go through so many different um avenues like you have to like Google this that and everything else. And I was
thinking about it, I was saying, why don't we have like a directory where it combines everyone and that you, you know, you alphabetize it and then you can just say, "Oh, I need, you know, I have a problem with my eyes, my
eyesight, and then you can just pinpoint that one instead of having to find a blind, you know, I I found when I was disabled with my u, you know, not being able to walk for quite a while, um, I I said, "What am I going to do?" You know,
what do I call? I couldn't even get downstairs from my my bedroom for 3 months. That's really ridiculous. Cuz I didn't want to buy an automatic one of those chair lifts because that inferred that, okay, you're you're disabled. Yeah. So, I thought about this and I
said, gee, I said, I wonder if other people are struggling with this. So, it may not come up, but I mentioned that to Kathy. I goes, this probably not be in your scope. I said it has to do with like the internet and about search. He goes, "No, no, no. That's what we want. We want just give us ideas and let us
determine how to decipher it." So that's all. It's not, you know, >> I was just going to say my understanding was that all we had to address was the disability community in these questions
and she has sent the same form to other commission committees of the town. I believe >> well I believe every Yarmouth citizen has been invited to complete this survey and a lot of times when a survey go out
goes out like this she'll ask um the staff liaison for the various town committees to send it out to their commission as well because you you know usually the people who are engaged with a town committee are engaged with the
town overall do you know what I mean so um so she was asking for feedback from you know the disability commission. You can do it as one you know kind of orchestrated feedback or you can do it as individuals. It doesn't have to be
>> no it doesn't have to be either or it's whatever you know >> right. >> So and it's and it goes the the survey itself goes beyond accessibility issues as well. So that's where it might be worthwhile to kind of take a look at the survey and respond because you might
have other concerns that go beyond or other ideas that go beyond the scope of the disability commission. But if you look at the questionnaire, it specifically says for persons with disability, >> but that's because Jean and Gail >> they extract have the questions that I
>> were they okay? >> Yeah, they're the same questions. >> Okay. Can somebody clarify this for me? >> Just one person. Where did these particular questions come? >> Okay. >> They came from the town planner.
>> These questions that are on this paper. >> So, were they word for word? That's what I was didn't recall inut disability committ. >> Jessica and Dale know the answer. So, >> who who made these questions?
>> Town. Town. account planner >> made these particular questions and that's >> vision this I didn't know that >> they specifically wanted our >> input >> input on key issues
right and so we wanted to combine it as as one >> you know we bring it to >> I was in a total fog until this met but but Kathy did say because I asked her she said some people you know some committees or commissions have individual uals that will give us the
input >> and some others prefer to combine everything together. >> And so we thought, Jean and I thought, you know what, to get the ball rolling, okay, because I know everybody's busy. >> Yeah. >> Um that we would, you know, come up with
what our ideas are, but we are asking, >> please give us your input. We really want that. So it's an addition to what we think. >> So we're not doing repetitive. Yeah. Right. >> I do have a question. Was her email
somewhere on this questionnaire? >> Well, I have access to her email. >> I forwarded her email. I I Yeah. January second. >> Yeah. >> I don't I >> I saw the not official yet. >> Not on the commission. Yeah. >> I saw the plan and I read through it, but I didn't I don't remember seeing her
email, but I'll reach out to her on my own and it's easier for me. >> That's fine. See, that's that's why every that's >> okay. So I haven't seen these questions and that's >> and what you're suggesting is it's probably because I didn't open up the relevant email. >> Correct. >> I sent them out.
>> Okay. >> You have an email from me. >> I do understand. Thanks. >> Good job, John. >> Profession. So this will add it to ours. >> So now that I understand all that, I think your original idea makes sense, right? Like we take this home and then
send to you. >> Yeah. Some of >> our ideas. Some thoughts. Yeah. Like what you just said there is really dumb. No, >> I'm exaggerating just to make a point. >> Exactly. Right. But I mean, you know, just to get Yeah, we're going to hear that, too. >> Sure. I'm exaggerating to make a point.
That's what you want is feedback. Real feedback. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, that seems sensible right now. >> We're going to take everything, you know. We're not going to say, "Oh, we we have >> that seems sensible to you there online, Mr. Martin. It just occurred to me to
>> I know when I'm zooming into things sometimes I >> I might appreciate if somebody talks >> so these were real questions that the planners had commission to answer. >> Yes. >> And so they answered them and now they're
>> inviting us to add or >> make other suggestions. >> Yeah. and send them to Jean and Gail specifically. >> That makes sense. >> Yeah, it makes perfect sense. >> No, thanks a lot. I was like totally behind the curve on that, baby.
>> And the there isn't It's on your agenda. You'll see the local comprehensive plan website. So, >> I do have that. Yeah. >> Oh, excuse me. You know what? I'm in a fogg. Today is not a good day for me. I'm sorry. I'm always in a fog. Anyway, this here
are the questions. This is exactly what Sarah had sent us. Okay. Okay. >> Um, unfortunately, I did add all my little notes to it, but um, it did say right there about they want our input. Very important. >> And, um,
so yeah, and there's just five little questions. So, if you four really four questions, >> you know, >> these questions also are exactly >> right. Right. Exactly. I I do understand that. >> Okay, cool. All right, moving along. Let
me see. All right, so that's done. >> Good. We're moving along. Awesome. All right, the next on the agenda is the annual report. And I already know I have to
make a change. But Sarah, do you make would you mind reading this for me? Can you read it out loud? >> Yeah, >> sure. Right now. >> Well, yeah, that's going to be our next on the agenda. This way we can Okay. We
can go over it and vote on it. >> Um, the town of Yarmouth Commission on Disability, often known as the board or the commission, serves as as an advisory board to the select board and the town administrator. The commission now has seven members and can expand to 13,
including at least one person from the age friendly committee. The board's responsibilities include number one, research local problems of people with disabilities. Two, advise and assist municipal officials and employees in ensuring compliance with state and
federal laws and regulations that affect people with disabilities. Three, coordinate or carry out programs designated to meet the problems of people with disabilities in coordination with programs of the Massachusetts Office on Disability. Four, re review
and make recommendations about policies, procedures, services, activities, and facilities of departments, boards, and agencies of said city or town as they affect people with disabilities. Five, provide information, referrals, guidance, and technical assistance to
individuals, public agencies, businesses, and organizations in all matters pertaining to disability. And six, coordinate activities of other local groups organized for sim similar purposes. During 2024, Yarmouth Commission on
Disability met monthly except in June at town hall with some members participating via Zoom. These meetings were normally conducted on the second Thursday of each month at 3 p.m. with the agenda available on the town website. Minutes from these sessions
have been posted to the website. Sarah O'Reilly, director of human resources, serves as both a staff member and the commission's ADA coordinator. The commission is grateful and thankful to Sarah Oh, I got a call out on here. Commission is grateful and thankful to Sarah's commitment, hard work, and
availability in keeping things working well. >> Grateful. Thankful. initiative. >> Over the past 11 months, the commission concentrated on providing a community access monitoring survey for town owned buildings, and in collaboration with various town departments, increasing
membership with talented and concerned Yarmouth citizens, developing and distributing the Yarmouth Commission on Disability brochure and poster, encouraging citizens to become advocates, attending other groups events, and maintaining its successful partnership with the Yarmouth Chamber.
During the first six months of 2024, two commission members worked extensively on a com community access monitoring survey for all town owned facilities. A CAM survey evaluates and reports on the accessibility of public areas and
infrastructures. This survey concentrated on specific areas such as disabled parking spaces, automatic door openers, railings, access paths, the force required to open doors, public counter height, and laboratories.
Following the survey, a report was written and given to the town administrator. That should be administrator. Okay. um that the Yarmmouth Department of Public Works and the Parks and Recreation Department identifying problem areas
that needed to be repaired. Yarmouth Commission on Disability was pleased to learn that our facilities are primarily ADA compliant. The Armouth Commission on Disability appreciates the work that is being done and in 2025 will meet with these departments to review their
progress. The arish on disability invited the parks and recreations department to its November 2024 meeting. >> Oh 24. Yep. >> The discussion focused on the mobile floating beach wheelchair rental usage
condition, maintenance policy and procedures as well as the development of a more userfriendly website which they agreed to do and report back with an update. Congratulations to the recreation department. It's actually a recreation. >> It's not part of recreation. >> No,
>> just recreation. Okay. >> Um for an excellent job. >> Yarmouth Commission on Disability looks forward to meeting with them again in 2025. Um YCOD is thrilled to keep partnering with Yarmouth Chamber to build an
alliance with the business community which is vital for individuals with disabilities. A partnership project with YCOD and YCC offers free visits to businesses to assess their accessibility and get useful insights into
establishing a barrier-free environment for every consumer. It's completely voluntary. YCOD is grateful to the business community for its effort toward making garment more accessible to everyone. On March 31st, 2024, John Mitchell was
appointed to the commit commission. John is a strong advocate with valuable expertise who adds fresh ideas to the commission. We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to working with him. On October 28th, 2024, Glenn Martin was appointed to the commission.
Glenn is also a powerful advocate and his professional background experience will be quite beneficial. The commission is looking forward to getting to know him and working alongside him. Donna Arnold was appointed to >> the commission
>> the commission in October 2023 to complete Evelyn Beiel's term. Due to personal circumstances, Donna was unable to renew her appointment in March of 2024. The commission appreciates Donna for her time and contribution. We wish her the best. The commission invites and
encourages those living with disabilities and/or their family members as well as concerned citizens to become involved with the Yarmouth Commission on Disability. >> So Sarah, do your magic. Clean it up. >> No, it's hard because while I was reading it, I was I was thinking of a
couple thing. I don't know. I would I think I would tweak the paragraph about Donna Arnold and maybe shorten that just to say um um the Yarmouth Commission on Disability would like to thank
um Donna Arnold for her contributions. >> Okay. >> You know, or something like that. Um Donna Arnold whose term ended in March of 24 for her contribution. Something, you know, kind of short. >> Yep. All right. Um I could write that. Um, Drew, that'd be great. I'll put it on >> because I'm I'm imagining I I' I'd have
to look. >> Second. How How are we going to accomplish uh make editing? When does it need to be submitted or >> It needs to be submitted this month because it needs to be printed for town meeting.
>> Okay. Um, and >> so it needs to be >> is there >> I guess >> when >> the end of January. >> Okay. >> So, I make a motion to accept it with the uh slight alterations that need
>> I don't think we're up. I'm not >> I don't think we're up. >> I think we need to uh work on it a little bit to polish it. I'm just a little uncomfortable with the paragraph on the local businesses.
>> Yeah, I agree. >> Yeah, completely voluntary and you know, a lot of that stuff. I like to put a silent little >> Well, then why don't we do this? Why don't we um May I just make a
suggestion? >> Okay. Sarah is responsible for the final copy. If you have ideas, just send them to her. Is that exactly acceptable? >> If you guys are comfortable with that, I'm >> I'm very comfortable with it. you're
>> I mean I think this h unless I guess before we go there I would just ask is there anything um that you you are seeing in in reading this and receiving this that you feel is
missing like we can clean up sort of the formatting of it and and make it sort of flow maybe a little bit better but is there anything like that you feel >> should be added >> strongly needs to be addit added are taken out or any you know anything like
>> I'd like to ask Jean just on that one paragraph what what is what sort of change do you think would you like to know >> you know it just leads back to it's the law it's the federal law it's the state law and we keep footing around
where I would like to make it a little stronger >> stronger >> well we're thrilled to key patent with YCC. But again, um
it's completely voluntary. Well, yes, it is. But if you're going to abide by the law, should it be so voluntary? Just little things like that. >> I think we have to be careful because we're not, again, we're not an
enforcement board, you know what I mean? So, um we're not there to um enforce whether it's by those but we're there to we're there to >> um assist them with making their
business more accessible and ensuring that you know so I think that's the the sort of line that we're walking >> why don't we just eliminate that line >> so >> that doesn't that's not even necessary >> we're working with uh Mary who does the
chamber of commerce Correct. >> That's right. >> We're we're incorporating improving business and chamber of commerce, but we're also looking out for the interest of the disabled individual advocating for >> I actually like Gail's idea, which is eliminate the first sentence. just
eliminate >> and it just said and start that paragraph with a partnership project with Yarmmouth Commission on Disability and Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce offers free visits to businesses to access assess their accessibility and get useful insights into establishing a
barrier-free environment for every consumer. >> Yeah. Say it's completely voluntary >> and that's all. And then just you know and then just finish it up with great that's it. So we can get just stop that partnership project. They don't have to right.
>> We should charge them a brownie to go and do a survey. >> Don't worry, Jean. We're not sending a secret message to businesses that it's okay to break the law. >> I don't know. It's me personally. That's my problem.
>> Not sis. But you know the PE but people have to know that that there is a law. >> Well, they do. >> But no, I never knew there was a law to be honest with you. And I was >> we're going to go nuts trying to >> just saying did really,
>> right? Yes. >> Everybody else knew there was a law but me. >> Whatever. Pretty bad. >> I didn't know there was a law. Sarah, it is it's the town administrator, not manager. >> Correct. >> Yeah. Okay.
>> And is it the select board? >> Yes. >> So, I really believe that Sarah can really clean this up for us. Right. >> What we need, what we're asking is, are there any omissions? Can you think of I mean I went back to
the minutes and >> I could have >> I can't think of any right now. >> I could have missed something. I try to you know I go over the 12 the 11 months. >> So we're So Sarah, you're taking on the task of coming up with the final. >> Sarah always does.
She's my cleanup girl right this second. >> I might be. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, so that discussion was we we read the report, the annual report, and we've uh
made some suggestions to uh polish it up. Sarah has agreed to uh create the final >> version, right? >> Perfect. >> That's what we've done. >> Yep. >> Perfect. >> Do we need to uh Sarah, I have a
question for Sarah. Do we need a vote accept the report? >> Uh probably should. Yeah. >> Okay. Okay. >> So, how about this, John? >> Second. >> Wait, I'm going to try to >> Perfect. >> I'll put it this way. I move that we accept
>> uh the report as as it will be uh revised by Sarah. >> You want to second that? >> I second that. >> You want to third it? >> Does that sound okay to you? >> Oh, we have to vote on it. Yay.
>> Okay. Oh, yeah. Okay. All right. And we need Okay, we got the motion. Okay, so we we have the motion, right? >> Yeah, we need the motion and John second. >> Okay, any discussion? We already went for the discussion. All right, so it's time to vote and we're doing a roll
call. Jean Bole, vice chair. >> Uh, yes. >> Drew Krauss, >> yes. >> Glenn Martin on Zoom. >> Yes. >> Thank you. John Mitchell, >> yes. >> Jessica Simmons, and Gail Sheret, yes. The motion is passed. Thank you.
>> Yes. You going to vote? >> No vote. No, she >> No, I don't vote. No, >> she's not old enough. >> Okay, so we're moving along. Thank you, Sarah, for doing that. That'll be perfect. Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you. >> So, um,
>> moving along >> now. The next one is we're going to just gloss over this probably. >> Look at how Sarah's looking at that. Looking at it. So, I'm looking at the agenda. Relax. >> Okay. So, we're gonna we're passing over number 11. There is
nothing no comments between YCOD and YCC. >> Yeah, there is. >> Oh, there is. I think >> nothing major. Just a little recap. Okay. >> Last month's meeting, everyone approved the letter that would be going out from the chamber.
>> Yeah. >> And holidays now, we haven't had a chance to get together. start >> going. >> You too, you mean? >> Pardon me. >> You and Mary? >> Well, Mary will send out the letters and
then a couple of weeks later, they'll follow up with a phone call and make an appointment to visit for the survey, bring along a packet of information. Good.
>> So, you and she will get together soon. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> And you remember, right? Exactly. >> I'm not sure if you were here last time or not, but >> I was. Yeah. >> Okay. Well, this is what she start. I do remember. >> Okay. >> Since you
>> But it's going to come from the chambers, right? That marriage. >> Chamber will be sending out that letter >> and I'll follow up and >> actually get an email, I believe. >> Awesome. >> Okay. That's really good. Yeah, I do remember that.
>> Okay. I guess that's the end of that. >> Okay. So we're moving on to number 12 and this is um the uh 2025th anniversary of reestablishment of the Yan Commission on dis disability
and um last meeting we all voted on and agreed to um institutionalizing the Evelyn Mal and I added something to it impact award because I like the word
impact that it just saying award. So, I think we have to probably vote on that, right? Because you can't just like Yeah. Okay. >> So, let's let's um put a motion together. Well, okay. Okay. Good. >> Don't second. >> Do you want to review it first though and then you can do one motion for the
whole >> thing or do you are you want to make a motion related specifically to the name? >> I think we should make it to the name first so that we document that. >> Okay. >> Yeah. So, >> I'll second. drawn seconded. Okay, great.
>> So, we'll have a um >> but uh wait a minute now. >> Roll call. The the motion is to >> accept the name is to accept the name Evelyn Mal impact award. It was made by Gail, seconded by John. >> Right.
>> Okay. >> And now we have a roll call. >> Now we have a roll call. >> Jean Bole, vice chair. >> Yes. >> Thank you. Drew Gross. >> Yes. >> Glenn Martin. >> Yes. Thank you, John Mitchell. >> Yes. >> Jessica Simmons. >> Yes.
>> And Gail Sheret. Yes. The motion passes. Thank you. >> You missed Evelyn. >> We do miss Evelyn. >> Oh, yeah. Right. >> Oh, she's with us. >> There you go. >> Spirit. All right. Now, we're ready to talk
about our ideas on the um on forming a the award. Right. I sent out an email to everyone. And I hope everybody received it. Jessica, you were out, so I don't know. You were on
>> You said something. You sent something recently, like last week. >> Yeah, but you Yeah, because you said you out of the office. I hope you were able to do something to get to it. >> Yeah. No, I I I didn't go through with with a fine tooth comb, but I did look at it. >> Okay, good. All right, good. All right. So, anyway, so if anybody has any
thoughts, um it's the who, what, where, when, and why. Okay. So, so let's come up with some who's who any ideas. >> I think as a pro procedural format that website that you sent out should be
adopted and accepted. That's a great template as to how to proceed with the award. >> It is a good template. >> We can so we should put so we can have that in our document. Okay. John John made a motion. Yeah. And uh Drew
seconded it. I mean Yeah. Drew second it. Mhm. >> He did. Yes. I know. >> I heard him. >> I heard >> I heard him over here. >> I heard. >> Well, the thing of it is, John, really, you got to say >> Glenn's close. >> I want to move something.
>> He's closer than Drew. This >> is all just so funny. >> I heard it. >> You like the uh innovation that says how to launch a successful awards program. Who, what, when, where, why? >> Right. >> It's a very good template. Yes, very useful.
>> Okay. >> Yes. >> But why do we >> Great second. >> Well, the reason being is that >> we are we are keeping what they call a uh chair chair the chairman's book and it will be put in the chairman's chairman's book so that
>> 20 years from now when they want to make another award they have you know >> template >> template. >> Does that sound foolish? >> No. No. >> Okay. So that's >> okay to me. >> Okay. >> I don't know. >> So I guess we have to do a roll call,
right? Oh, did anybody second it? >> Yeah. >> Wait, what are we Drew? Did >> I made the motion in second? >> Yeah. The only problem is I'm not quite sure how to characterize this. What are we doing exactly? >> What are you making a motion of? What? I'm sorry. You need to clarify your >> We all agree this is a nice template of
who, what, when, where, why. >> We're going to use the email that was forwarded to the members as a template template to uh follow the award >> when nominating a person. Is that
>> uh might be in the template? Yeah. >> Yeah, it is. >> When would we be using the template? >> When we're looking to nominate somebody. That's what I would think. Yeah. M not really. >> No. No. >> No. Well, that's >> that's how to go about >> what, where, why, and when, >> right?
>> So, that's why I made that connection. >> Can you go over what the procedure would be? Where would your people getting the award come from? >> Okay. Wait a minute. Okay. Hold on. You know what?
What was sent was a questionnaire on how to >> create an award. That's exactly that's okay. Create an award, not to nominate an
individual. Okay. What John was saying was just keep it in the arsenal for future reference. If you decide to have a h decide to make another award, you can use that, >> you know. >> So, I don't think you need a motion to
like put it in your person's book. >> I think we can just agree that this is a useful thing. >> Yeah. Right. >> When, where, and why. >> That's fine with me. >> And we just keep going. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> We all agree agree with you, John. This is a nice
>> All right. So, we're back to the who, what, where, when, and why. Who is being recognized? Is this an internal award program for employees? No. An external award program recognizing customers, members members, or industry
associates. It's a reward me uh rewarding members of the community. Right. >> So, Drew, I think we're on this, right? Aren't we discussing this? >> They're we're trying to determine >> who do we want to give something else to. >> Making that determination now. Has
anybody has anybody done anything to to contribute? >> I mean, they were supposed to bring your ideas. >> I don't have any ideas except we're supposed to pick a person from the community. >> No, I think right now the intent is to outline,
>> right, >> how this award is going to be established and set up. >> So, it's not we're not here to discuss who we're recognizing. like >> how is the what's the structure of the award,
>> what when >> how to achieve a successful award is what the the website basically it's a template that we should follow we can achieve a successful >> got it >> award >> or somebody in the community or in the
the staff. So >> So don't you need to establish criteria? That's the whole idea. That's what's in the >> He's going to nominate a person or a business. What do they have to what should they have done to be nominated? >> Right. >> I hate to say this children, but this tells me that nobody has read the email
or >> you did this. >> Yes. >> Not this. This is my answers. >> This is this is my contribution to the board. >> I would Where is every other everybody else's? >> Okay. I read it.
>> You didn't explain what this piece of paper was. >> I didn't have to explain it. >> Okay. >> I'm getting now. >> All right. Let's doing with this, but when I saw this, I didn't know what this >> Right. >> So, I was kind of confused.
>> Can we start over getting like disrespectful with each other and I don't >> I don't want to be disrespectful, but you know what? But what I did was I sent out an email asking everyone to please fill it out the who, what, where, when, and why, and to email
their response to Sarah for the meeting by January 8th. >> I know I didn't email any such things. >> So if you didn't email it, just say, "I did not email. I didn't have a chance." So this is why you received this is because I sent it to Sarah as part of
what we were you know supposed to do. >> So that being said it doesn't really matter because you know what basically >> this is an idea. So let's expand upon this ideal. >> This will be fine. We could use this you know as an idea. So I came up with a
concerned individual and also a business organization or group. >> Yeah. Does anybody have any other options? Because I don't know. >> Question. >> Yeah. >> Does this does this person, business, or organization, does it have to be
disability community specific? >> This is related to somebody that's going to give an award because we're giving it the disability commission is giving it. So, yes, it is made some sort of contribution or absolutely. >> So, let's read the why state. Maybe we
can start from the bottom. >> Oh, that's a good idea. >> Commission on Disability is thrilled to announce the annual Evelyn MBL impact award in memory of our founder. This award publicly recognizes and celebrates outstanding performance by an individual
as well as a business organization or group that goes above and beyond to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities aligns with Yarmouth Commission on Disability Goals and emulates the contribution of our founder. Evelyn was a devoted advocate
who volunteered her time and abilities to uphold the rights and concerns of individuals dis with disabilities while ensuring accessibility, acceptance, and convenience. So, that's kind of the the
um that's what's being proposed as kind of the this the why statement, if you will. And I think the idea here was to um put some structure around how this award would be established, set up, and
evaluated so that when we're ready to talk about nominees for the award, then we have some structure around it. >> Thank you. Some good criteria. >> I'm glad that you know. >> Yes, you said it right the way. Yes.
Perfect. perfectly. So anyway, so that you know, so we so we thought about thought about like obviously a concerned citizen, right? So an individual and why not give one to a business organization or a group, why not have two awards instead of having one? Because a lot of
times when you're having the tracker people, you have a concerned citizen and then you have the person that made the award and then the the other individual did the action. So there they you know so it's a yin-yang you know
>> like >> I think I like just one >> it could be either or it doesn't have to be both >> either or >> you know it doesn't have to be every year two awards it could be an individual or a business. Yeah I like that. >> I think if it's two then kind of
diminishes it a little bit. Yeah. Well, what about the person that took the time to write, you know, their concerns and they were implemented.
If that person did not reach out to us, we would not know anything about it. So, this is really important because we're trying to get the community to give us feedback. We're trying to get the committee community um >> community
>> community to like like get embrace of what we're trying to do. So by giving them an award >> is is a is a way of recognizing that they took the time to do that. And on the other end of the spectrum you have >> we'll say the business that spent the
money, spent the time and did the right thing. So that's why I I believe that we should have two awards. It's not to diminish one or the other. It's to really uplift both. And it's because of it's in two different directions. It's to do this and to and to do that.
>> I guess it's just when one of the things to consider is who do you want to recognize? Because the the person who actually took that feedback and did something with it. >> I I don't know. Is that the person you
want to recognize? And by doing so, you would end up calling out the fact that it was brought to us by a concerned citizen. >> That's awesome. >> Yeah. I don't know. I'm just like I'm thinking about the award itself and do
you both do you need to do two awards or do you in in Oh, Glenn's has something to say. >> I was I was more than willing to wait until you were done speaking. So that's fine. It's okay. Maybe you'll maybe
you'll contribute something because I think I was pretty much done. Let me write >> my my view of this and I I I wasn't here last meeting so I don't know how in-depth discussion was then but um this award from what the description was read
was it was supposed to be awarded to somebody who went kind of above and beyond and really kind of you know made an an impact and it and it I think that you know recognizing somebody who just
sent, you know, sent us something through the track is not enough. I think that you you need somebody who uh you need somebody who volunteers or somebody who um takes takes um takes it upon
themsel to to bring their disabled neighbor to their doctor's appointments or you know or it you know somebody who who really puts forth extra above and beyond effort because anybody can use the tracker and submit something and then that's the
ender >> feedback. Yeah, I think that's No, but Glenn, that's one criteria. I'm not saying that we that you would just key on just that individual. I'm just saying that's one criteria. Like, let me explain something to you. When the Moby
chairs came out to the community, right? >> Mhm. >> That impacted quite a bit of people. >> Yes, it Yeah, >> that individual did not I'm not saying you know if that individual did not come to us there would be no new chairs and people
would not be able to use them. That was a huge impact. >> So I'm not saying you know and I like the idea I know what you're talking about because yes one comment should not be means that oh my gosh you know you did everything. So maybe what we I can think about or or we can think about
redesigning it, but that individual could probably be part of the whole package instead of being maybe two different things. Maybe that maybe I think more on target. >> Yeah, that would make a lot more sense.
But if you're rec see I feel like like I'm thinking of um you know Jim Basler as an example like he you know he owns some some properties and we have an
individual who brought forward concern about one of those properties not being accessible and had the tenant happened to be a medical you know um provider >> and um So he, you know, so the the individual
was important for bringing that up and he was important for taking that feedback and and in doing so, not only did he um you know, he upgraded their entryway to be able to make it more
accessible, but now he's looking at so that would be sort of like business as usual to some degree, right? So that up to that point I would say is kind of like okay we got the feedback >> and he you know took that feedback and
he implemented it. But now from what I understand he's he's looking at he's looking at um you know assisting other businesses and and sort of relaying the message of how important it's been the
positive feedback he's gotten. And he's also looking at making his other properties which weren't reported, weren't talked about more accessible because he not he implemented that one place which I would say is like okay we
got the feedback he implemented the feedback and then now he's taking it to the next level to say okay what else can I do to make my other properties more accessible. I don't know if that is like the best example, but that's I think the
other thing is if we're talking about doing something once a year, then you know to have you know more than one a year, you know, more than one acknowledgement or recognition a year. Um I don't know, it
just might it might not make it as impactful if you're doing too many at once. And I think by by acknowledging like if if he were the example and I'm not saying he he would be but say say he was I think he he did a great thing
there you know what I mean um it it sort of depends on what other things are going on too right as to who gets you know selected for such an award. But um you know by recognizing the person who or the business or organization who who
you know actually is receiving the impact award. I think we can acknowledge the fact that this was made possible by a concerned citizen bringing something to our and in turn his attention
which he then acted on. You know what I mean? So I think you can accomplish it without dedicating >> a separate award for the individual who brought it up. I don't know that's down one because I think you're right. I listening to everybody I understand it >> and I'm glad that we had this
conversation because criteria is going to have to be how we structure this whole thing. >> And Glenn, thank you very much for bringing that up. >> We have a consensus that would be one award per year. >> I think that's the But I think we're
still talking about >> it could be it could be to an individual, it could be to a business, it could be to an organization or a group. This way we com combine everybody and then when I criteria >> then we list all the criteria necessary to make sure that you know that person
>> I want to say my something that's the main thing that just so you all know the the main thing that uh is on my mind is and the reason like like these these structures here all seem good and obvious one and also one award per year seems correct
but uh how we decide who gets the award board really puzzles me. >> I think that one of the things that you may want to consider is accepting nominations. You know, >> how would that how would that go? >> How would that be?
>> We have We We're pretty I mean, you guys are out in the community and you're kind of >> you know, you're out there certainly and I know you're all involved, but if you're not asking for >> Can I just make a suggestion? That's This is only phase one. Phase two is the
other part. is getting, you know, who gets the award and also the nomination form that we're not talking about that right now. We have to just talk about like just the basics like
>> now we know who it's going to be one >> where is it going to what is it going to be and by they say what >> the way I interpret it is that what are we going to give all right >> so what you know and you come up with >> something to say >> you know we're we're skipping Glenn and
then sorry Glenn >> go ahead Glenn >> oh um okay um yeah I I I think I I mean I was I was going to say I think that it should be you know a nomination format. Um and I
do think that um it needs to be at least the criteria needs to be you know uh above and beyond like like Sarah was saying where you know the an individual I mean somebody somebody submitted um through the um
God I can't even think of what the name of it is. >> The website. >> Yeah. Somebody submitted through the website and then it was acted upon but that happens all the time. So I mean uh what happened after that? So I mean it yeah it could be submission act done or
it could be submission act inspire continue you know so it's the inspire and continue part that we're trying to recognize. It's you know in order to you know in order to essentially recognize somebody for you know going above and above and beyond. And that's that is
what I'm focusing on is the above and beyond part. Um so I mean you know the like you know the guy that you know help that donates and builds you know a handicap ramp for his elderly neighbor or you know uh you know that sort of
thing. It's like yet you have to um I mean we got to we got to think you know more otherwise there'll be so many people eligible that we'll get bogged down in trying to select one and then you know you select one but this person is also similar so
how do we differentiate between and you know it's going to be it's going to be very difficult on us so the the more criteria I mean we really want you know we really want best picture here you know we want we want the Oscar we don't want you know a bunch of participation
trophies if that makes sense. >> Yeah. You mentioned the woman on the tracker mentioned the mobile chairs. What specifically did she say at that time that >> well the idea was that somebody somebody
just brought something to the attention and that made an impact on the community. Okay. So, you know, you'd put that probably in in line and then you would put other people in line and then what you do is you would look and you would see what each one contributed and
then you would come to a consensus consensus of this is the one I mean you know but you wouldn't dismiss these people. I don't think I think you should add them, but then you should, you know. >> No, I was just thinking the movie chairs have been around a long time and I think
she complained because >> Well, they were all they were all they were. Yeah, but I mean, but that was just an example. I'm not >> Okay. Yeah. I mean, this is not going to be an easy, you know, piece of I'm I'm kind of hung up on the >> Well, you know, there's some
organizations out there like, let's say the NAACP awards. >> Yeah. and the Kate Verdian Awards. I just the Harage thing when I was at work the other day. Um, but all the people that have won awards through the years for all these different towns and so forth. So, I wonder if we could reach out to them or or find out. Oh, yeah.
You know what I'm saying? How do they come to their determinations? What is their criteria? They're established. They've been giving awards out for a long time. Maybe they could offer us some insight. This is something we want to do as a disability commission. We want to recognize people in businesses
and organizations, whatever groups in the community that that go bend over backwards to make life better for all those people with disabilities. So, um we're this is something we want to do and we'd love your input or just whoever, you know, just reach out to
some of those organizations that have been doing this >> and say, you know, it's it's a real sticky wicket. you know, you don't want to slight people, but on the other hand, you know, you don't want to minimize the just give it out willy-nilly because it's important that these people come
forward. So, maybe since we're new at this, we could get some guidance >> from some organizations that have been doing this. >> I think that's a great idea. >> I nominate you to I nominate you myself a note here. Contact your person in
charge. There it is. of their nominee. And if I can say real quick um >> one you know it just in that in that um in that suggestion that was just given even you know even then it says you know
that goes above and beyond or that goes that goes extra that you know I mean so we're talking about we're talking about something special you know we're talking about a special effort uh we're talking about special contribution we're talking about something that is not uh that's
not run-of-the-mill, that's not, you know, that's not something that anybody could do. You know, we want we want to recognize somebody or a business or whatever that that does that goes above and doesn't, you know, for something that they don't have to do. They don't
have to be involved with, but but they but they were and they accomplished this thing, which is wonderful. And we want to rec we want to recognize them for that. And that's why >> using the name Yeah. Using the name, someone who made a significant impact. >> Yeah. Right. >> One of the things I was thinking
>> maybe the Garmouth Chamber and I cannot remember the couple who who owned a business. They retired. >> Okay. >> Oh my gosh. >> Whatever their name is. What do you remember? >> That the chamber rewarded business of the year. >> Mhm. >> I'll have to Mary, you know, the chamber
selected this business of the year. So I'll ask Mary. >> Is that an annual thing or was that a special >> No, it's every year. The Yarmouth Chamber awards business of the year. Um, Bagels and Beyond got something and then this other couple retired.
>> So, you know what? So, that is a good >> So, do we need to to be continued on this? >> Let's just finish the last two because then then they got the ball of wax and then you know that's it. It's done. >> I think one of the >> So, in terms of the award itself
cuz we don't we don't has that been costed out for like the plaque and all that kind of stuff. I just need to make sure I get something. >> No, because you know why? We haven't discussed what we're going to have, what we're going to do. So, we couldn't do that. >> So, that's why we're just going through
all the motions here. Like, um, so I like the idea of not reinventing the wheel. That's a smart thing. Um, and if you can reach out to a several organizations, >> right? And even Mary, I mean, gosh, chamber gives out the award for business year. It's got to be similar criteria,
you would think. >> So, we we could do that. we can use that that that form and and like where we're going to have it that seems to be very I think a simple thing that the town hall right the select board u hearing room
what do you think >> sounds I mean I think that's the place where it should be but >> Glenn do you have any ideas >> I have an idea >> John okay sorry >> um
unfortunately I wasn't able to be here when Evelyn Beal was here. Is there anything in particular that she was noted for while she was here? Like did she um >> she had an award. She received an award. In fact, I didn't bring my paper.
>> Well, one of the things it's a award >> the recognition >> for Evelyn Beal. Now, if she was uh famous for wearing a red shirt, >> oh, this person wore a red shirt and let's give this person the award. They wore a red shirt. You know what I mean?
something that that characterizes her. Well, you know what I mean? Just >> Well, I think that's that's what this outlines. This this outlines sort of her >> nice >> her um I would say passion for you know
ensuring accessibility. >> Perfect. So, is this going to be like an inperson event kind of presentation or is it going to be presented at at the uh >> I think it should be >> is this going to be presented at, you know, individually or is it, you know,
like in the in the process of a select board meeting? Is it going to be is it going to be in you during one of our meetings or you know are we going to you know we going to have because it that the we have to I guess my my fear is that
and when we my wife was um uh involved in the the the DY special education community parent advisory council and that's a mouthful but um they created an award called the silver dolphin and what what what they did they um they accepted
nominations. They put the word out to the the school district to, you know, to put in nominations and you can nominate pretty much anybody. Um like D uh one of the pediatricians, Dr. Mars, got uh nominated and received one and such like that. But they also had like for
instance, they had um uh a $500 scholarship for, you know, for a student um that was, you know, that then that was one of the awards. and then they'd have like an in-person thing, you know, a little, you know, little ceremony type thing and and you know, a recognition
and they wouldn't show up for it. So, I wanna I want to make sure that it's not one of those things where you're presenting to an empty hall. You know what I mean? It's >> um >> yeah, we want to we want to make sure that, you know, people, you know, people
think as highly of this as we do and and that they'll want and they'll they'll they'll want to to receive it and they'll, you know, and it'll be something of, you know, notoriety and pride that they that they're receiving this award, you know. So, I don't know if that means that we have, you know, uh
an in-person, you know, ceremonial type thing in the very beginning or if we start it as part of um uh a select board meeting, have it be part of a select board meeting, have them pre present it, you know, such like that since there's going to be a since there's a bunch of people there anyway, you know, now this
person is being recognized, you know, that sort of thing. And then we kind of move on as the as the award grows and gains more of a name. then we then we can morph it into, you know, something a little more. You know what I mean? Am I
making sense? Yeah, I can talk I can talk to the town administrator um about you know presentation and how that you know if if there's a an opportunity to um
>> when when Evelyn was presented her award in in August of last year of 2020 >> three she um she was on Zoom she couldn't make it >> and and Michael Stone presented the
award and it was a beautiful ceremony. Drew was there. >> Sarah was there >> was part of a select >> I was there right >> and yes the select board gave the award. >> I think that the the disability commission should partner with the
select board on this. I think that is a nice idea. >> I think that the select board and I think people would go to that meeting because it's that's why we should have it there. It's a very good idea. >> And I I like what you said, you know, try to, you know, I mean, I can't imagine someone not wanting to go to
receive their award, especially if you're an individual that had worked very hard to do something and you're very proud of it. >> Well, if it's dark in December, >> they probably won't want to >> Well, we'll pick them up. We'll pick them up. But anyway, but that's one
place. >> Too cold. Too cold. I'm not going to that, >> you know. But these are >> we can always do it in the print. >> These are just ideas. Okay. So I mean you know so that's why you know I I I put that down >> because I would hate I would hate to
have you know to to to go through all of this and establish this and you know and we put a lot of weight behind it and emotion behind and all that and then have the person that we choose to receive it not put as much behind it as we do. You know what I mean? And therefore not show up or you
or or or what have you. But um so I mean I would I think being a part of a select board meeting where you have kind of that audience there already brings attention to us, brings attention to the award, brings attention to the person receiving the award. I think it's good all the way around. >> Good idea.
>> Good idea for sure. >> So we're going to keep it at the town hall select board hearing room meeting. >> Okay, cool. >> And when when is it going to take place? It's going to be annually. We're going to pick a month. Um somebody I think Mary had mentioned June. and I threw
that in there. It doesn't really matter to me. And we're going to pick a time and we'll check with the select board. They will post it and they would take care of it so that the you know the people would the public would hear about it. So basically that's it and this is
just like just the first seed being planted all right of what we're doing for this this award. >> Right. And I just I I have an urge to to say this that uh to me like >> the toughest part about this to me is
the reason that I don't have ideas is that it's hard for me to figure out how we're actually going to pick somebody. You know, >> I wouldn't worry about that cuz I I >> that's the only thing that I do worry about. >> I feel that like Well, I I'll tell you something. Somebody outstanding. All right. >> It's so simple to figure out who is
outstanding. It really is. >> Maybe I'm off base. That's my thing. Yeah. No, but I'm just saying, you know, like um >> Yeah, >> that's what >> if you have several then you have like you I mean like really it's going to be it'll be difficult when you have maybe several outstanding people but you know
what some of you rise to the occasion to >> we'll put it to Glenn. What do you I you had something that you had to say. >> I think this is part of the um the the the the nomination process is where you know we we we have to we come together
and we kind of formulate a nomination paper and we make that available to download off the Yarmouth website. They download it, they write it in, they and it's like, why do you think this person they have to write a little bit about what they've done and what, you know, and and why they're nominating them and
then we can go from there. And we as a committee, if it's if it's the committee that's going to be, you know, making the decision, then we kind of debate and, you know, and and plead our case for our our, you know, for the candidate that we think and, you know, and such and we
kind of debate it from there. But I think we can I think if we have the the the if we ask the right questions on the nomination paper and we get a decent response, people, you know, who are passionate about it be like this person really needs it, they're going to put
forth a good essay, so to speak, or a good paragraph or make a good argument towards them. So I think I think that, you know, if we if we narrow it, I don't think it'll be too hard to narrow it down. Um, I think the hard part's going to be gonna come when we get to like three or four three or four names left
or a couple of names left. Then we're gonna, you know, be debating. And in that, I think we should um when the time comes to to to um to sort out the process, I think we need to designate like one person to be like the
tiebreaker. One person to be, >> you know, who who's not necessarily involved in the original process, but is is there at the end to kind of moderate and be like, "Okay, well, we have two people left. We're hopelessly deadlocked. Sarah, what do you think?" you know, and and then you know, one one
person not necessarily Sarah, but one person will be will be in, you know, kind of the type of Sarah. >> So, I'm going to leave I'm going to leave >> anyway. All right. I'm going to leave with this. >> Des describe specific characteristics,
qualities, or examples that you believe make the nominees stand out or demonstrate how they go beyond above and beyond. Quality is appreciated more than quantity. Make a motion. >> Use an active voice in your writing. >> I second.
>> So I you know we >> I make a motion for John to make a motion. >> We'll get there. Okay. So we got the motion. Okay. Um question. When was when was Evelyn's birthday? >> Her birthday. >> Wait a minute. What month was her birthday in? I got >> Oh, there you go.
>> What made you think of that? >> That's when we'll do it. >> That's when birthday month. >> Yeah. I wonder if Mary Summer had an idea that >> everybody's here in the summertime. >> You know what? I'd probably have it on my phone. >> I have it in my would be a better time,
but maybe summer. >> I like that idea, Jessica. >> Birthday when it's warm and not >> I think it's I I think it was in November. I like that idea. >> Oh, November. Her new birthday's in July. Yeah. >> Should we uh
>> Could I make a motion to like end the meeting possibly? >> Oh, no. We have to do the minutes. >> Oh, the minutes. Okay. >> I I have a might not be the time. >> I will. I have like three or four questions. >> Um >> Okay. Go ahead. >> Do you want to try to >> Can we all uh agree on accepting the
minutes of the last meeting? >> I abstain and I >> I move that we accept the minutes of the last meeting. >> I second. I second. >> I third it. July >> I >> July. Perfect. July. >> Was it July? August. >> Everybody. So, you accepted the minutes of the last meeting. >> Yeah. >> I
>> Okay. Now, uh Jessica, you want to try to squeeze in >> when July? >> Okay. So, the nominees, do they have to be >> a town business or resident? >> Yeah. >> Bing. >> I'm you. I'm sorry. >> Do the nominees have to be a town business or town resident?
>> I would say yes. >> County. Do the nominations only come from commission members or can they be public nominations? >> Question. Public nominations. >> I think public and we should have something on our website where you can make a nomination
>> where you can submit download. >> Let her finish your question. >> Commission members only choose the winner or is there somebody from the select board maybe that we want to choose or is it just us that are choosing this winner? >> I want to keep that because I'm not
decided. >> I don't know. Yes, I think members of the board and >> I would like to reserve that for >> I I I we also value your opinion. You >> would be helping us choose too I think. >> Yeah, that's right. So there, you know, there's a modification right there.
>> I think just the disability commission and Sarah >> and Sarah. Okay, those are down. >> Yeah, I think so. >> I have I have a quick thing I want to next. It's getting late and it has to do with >> I may be
>> Drew's going to turn into a pumpkin soon and make changes. >> Tell me that the next couple >> Okay, John wants to make one last point. What is it, John? >> It's it's on grants. I just wanted to make a motion that somehow we've got to
figure figure out how to get some money. >> Okay. >> Okay. We're going to talk about that next time, John. >> It's a discussion. It's not a >> All right. And I'll put that on the agenda for February. Gale put that on the >> I'll put that on the general for February. Okay. >> I uh Drew moves that we this meeting.
>> A second. >> All in favor? >> All right. Let me go through it. >> Thank you. >> Jean Bole. >> Yes. >> Drew Gross. >> Hi. >> Glenn Martin. >> Hi. >> John Mitchell. >> Yes. >> Jessica Simmons.
>> Okay. >> Neil Sheret. Yes. >> Motion. >> And now anybody can say anything. No, the commission's >> Yeah, that's why that's why I should have said something in the public grants