Commission on Disability (COD)

At their meeting on August 21, 2023, the Freetown Board of Selectmen established a Commission of Disability. At their meeting on September 5, 2023, The Freetown Board of Selectmen approved the make-up, mission statement (charge) and action items below.                                                                                      
                                    Mission Statement

To ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and advocate for the rights of disabled residents in the Town of Freetown. The goal is to bring about the full and equal participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of life.

                                            Membership

The COD will consist of five (5) members, a majority of members should have disabilities, one (1) member shall be the immediate family member of a person with disability, and one (1) member shall be either an elected or appointed official.

The terms of the first members of said commission shall be for one, two or three years, and so arranged that the term of one-third of the members expires each year, and their successor shall be appointed for terms of three years each.

                                        Action Items

1. Research local problems of people with disabilities;

2. Advise and assist Town officials and employees in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and regulations that effect people with disabilities;

3. Coordinate or carry out programs designed to meet the problems of people with disabilities in coordination with programs of the Massachusetts Office on Disability;

4 Review and make recommendations about policies, procedures, services, activities and facilities of departments, boards, and agencies of the Town as they effect people with diabilities;

5 Provide information, referrals, guidance and technical assistance to individuals, public agencies, businesses and organizations in all matters pertaining to disability; and 

6. Coordinate activities of other local groups organized for similar purposes.