Title
Consider a memorandum/resolution accepting the Phase I self-evaluation site assessment report for ADA compliance as required by the Settlement Agreement with the Department of Justice.
Summary
DATE: February 21, 2023
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: Leslie K. Hinkle, Executive Director of Community Development
SUBJECT: Phase I Site Assessment - ADA Compliance
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
In March 2018, the City received notice from the Department of Justice (DOJ) related to the Veterans Access Initiative Compliance Review. The DOJ performed onsite assessments of several City facilities. The final report was released to the City in the Spring of 2020. On June 29, 2021 the City and the DOJ signed a Settlement Agreement outlining the requirements of the City to come into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
In July 2022, the City contracted with Meeting the Challenge, A CP&Y Company, to evaluate and assess City facilities, parks, trails, programs, services, policies, and practices for compliance with ADA. The results of the self-evaluation are outlined below:
Programs, policies and procedures
Policy documents found:
* Website information and postings - all documents provided on the website need to be fully tagged for vision and hearing accessibility for assistance software users
* Additional policies are needed for service animals, emergency management and accessible seating at City venues
Employee Surveys found:
* Additional policies and guidelines should be developed and adopted
* Additional accessibility training needed for staff
Architectural
Facilities, including parkland and trails
* 56 facilities, 28 parks and 3 trails assessed
o 6,183 findings of non-compliance with ADA
o 37 findings of not best practices
The estimated costs for alterations and repairs=$3,419,363.00. Costs can be divided by priority, public access, and budget year.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
1. Do not accept the Phase I self-evaluatio...
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