HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-01-28 GRAAC GRAND RIVER
ACCESSIBILITY
ADVISORY
GRAACCOMMITTEE
Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee
Date: Thursday, January 28, 2021
Location: Zoom Meeting
Present: Donna Hartzler, Janis McKenzie (City of Kitchener), Dawn Clelland (Co-Chair), Heather Clark-Harris,
Rob Bender, Jeff Smith (Township of Woolwich), Andrena Lockley-Brown, Brenda Robinson (Co-Chair), Berny
Wesselink, Jolene MacDonald, Melanie Garbaz (Region of Waterloo), Paula Saunders, Lolita Paroski (City of
Kitchener/City of Waterloo), Trevor Tamlin, Carrie Speers, Mamie Sealey-Baker, Tracey Murray (Township of
Wilmot), Tamara Bell, Councillor Sandra Hanmer (City of Waterloo), Councillor Sue Foxton (Region of
Waterloo), Councillor Debbie Chapman (City of Kitchener), Brad Sayles, Teresa McQuillin
Regrets: Ashley Sage (Township of North Dumfries), Amy Harron (Township of Wellesley),
1. Welcome and Introductions
2. Approval of December Minutes
Andrena motioned to accept January agenda. Paula seconded. All in favour.
Dawn motioned to accept December minutes; Donna seconded. All in favour.
3. Declarations of Pecuniary Interests
None
4. Region of Waterloo Breslau on demand, William Towns
Information provided to the committee about the ongoing design and development of a pilot on
demand transit service for Breslau. GRT is undertaking this project in partnership with Metrolinx and
Overlap Associates (a local service design firm) to bring transit to a fast-growing part of the Region, building on
lessons learned from previous GRT pilots. The purpose of coming to GRAAC is to raise awareness about the
project, provide information about preliminary directions, and solicit feedback related to accessibility of the
service, preferences re: service details, etc.
What is on-demand transit?
• No fixed route, shared rides, vehicle supply matched to demand (flexibility)
• Useful in areas with low densities, indirect roads, physical barriers
• Appropriate for relatively low-demand areas —delivering cost effective solutions requires creativity and
attention to needs of users
Why Breslau?
• Fast-growing and economically important part of the Region (residential areas and key employers)
• Currently lacks direct transit connections, home to future GO station
• On-demand transit has potential to provide convenient and affordable service to Breslau for the first
time, and create interim connections to existing transit before GO station opens
How has accessibility been considered?
• Vehicles: Low-floor vehicles, space for mobility devices
• Stop locations: Documenting of accessible locations prior to service launch (curbs, connectivity,
lighting, etc.) • Alternate booking methods: Beyond smartphone app, provide call-in /web booking
options (accommodate those without smartphones)
What are we asking of GRAAC?
• Determine if this service will be useful to you or someone you know
• Looking to hear from those who live and work in Breslau /those interested in travelling to and from the
community
• Visit Engage WR page: On-Demand Transit Service Design in Breslau I EngageWR
• Respond to final questions re: service hours, wait times • Review and provide feedback re: preliminary
preferred service details
Questions or concerns please contact wtowns2regionofwaterloo.ca via email
Questions/Feedback
• Is this on demand service is a part of a larger Regional strategy. Yes, it is a part of a larger GRT
strategy. Pilot project before long term plans are implemented.
• Virtual bus stops how does that work for those with visual disabilities and snow clearance in the winter?
Small spaces like Canada post mailboxes get cleared all the time, locating stops near them. Locations
that are commonly cleared in the wintertime already. All exceptionalities need to be considered when
locating the stops.
5. Township of Wilmot 2021-2025 Accessibility Plan and
2020 Status Update, Tracey Murray
1. Information and Communication Barriers
a) Accommodations for Persons Who Are Deaf, Deafened or Hard of Hearing in Municipal Services
Goals:
• to proactively investigate and establish formal practices to accommodate persons who are deaf,
deafened, or hard of hearing in municipal services
Actions:
• Clerk's office will engage ASL interpreters through the Waterloo Branch of the Canadian Hearing
Society on an as needed basis for public meetings of Township-wide interest. (No requests have
been made to-date for this service.)
• Assisted Hearing Devices have been included with the Council Chambers sound system
purchase and are available on demand for meetings in the Council Chambers.
• TTY: The TTY component of the telephone system with computer-based technology was
installed in June of 2014. The TTY number is 519-634-5037
b) Corporate Communications —Alternate Formats
Goals:
• To provide municipal information in `alternate formats' to residents with disabilities.
Actions:
• The Township developed a policy in 2010 for responding to requests for information in alternate
formats. The policy is attached as Schedule "A". Upon request, information in alternative formats
will be provided as per the Township policy.
• The Township website reiterates the ability to request information and documents in alternate
formats throughout the website.
2. Technological Barriers
Goals:
• To improve the Township's website accessibility.
Actions:
• The Township website includes a `Feedback' button for comments about the website and
Accessibility Feedback relative to the website, municipal facilities, municipal services and by-law
enforcement that impedes mobility.
• As part of a website refresh, compliance with the World Wide Web Consortium Web Content
Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0, at Level AA. All documents attached to the website have
been reviewed to ensure compliance with the same guidelines.
3. Policy/Practice Barriers
Recreation:
• Wilmot Township offers a Personal Attendant for Leisure (PAL) Card program. The program is offered
at Wilmot Recreation Complex and is administered by aquatics staff. The program allows free admission
to PAL card holders when accompanying a person in need of assistance. In 2012, the program was
expanded to include public skating at the new recreation complex as well. This program will be expanded
to include other recreation programs and activities where possible i.e. public skating. The availability of
a PAL Card is on the municipal website and will be advertised in the municipal information pages of the
Wilmot Recreation Guide.
Facility Design:
• The Township of Wilmot provides accessible facilities for all residents to enjoy. The Grand River
Accessibility Advisory Committee will be consulted on facility design features prior to new construction or
renovations to existing facilities as per legislated requirements.
Snow Clearance:
• Property owners/occupants in Settlement Areas of the Township are required under By-law No. 84-72
to clear the sidewalk that is adjacent to their property of snow and ice. Enforcement staff respond to
public commentary and complaints as received. Municipally owned properties are maintained by
Township staff.
Accessible Parking:
• Wilmot Township established By-law No. 2003-56 regarding accessible off-street parking. A minimum
provincial fine of$300 has been approved by the Attorney General for any violators found parking,
setting or standing in a space marked for disabled parking.
Building Design:
• Township of Wilmot plans for new municipal buildings or building additions are reviewed by the Grand
River Accessibility Advisory Committee as per legislated requirements.
Emergency Evacuation:
• The Red Cross audited emergency evacuation centres for accessibility in 2006. The facilities that were
audited were: Waterloo Oxford & District Secondary School, St. Agatha Community Centre, New
Dundee Public School, New Hamburg Community Centre and Arena. The Wilmot Recreation Complex
was also audited recently.
Election Accessibility:
Goals:
• Define areas noted during previous elections where accessibility can be improved throughout
entire election process
Actions:
• Ensure all municipally owned voting locations are barrier free. Ensure all non-municipally owned
voting locations are accessible or have accommodations in place to achieve independent
voting. All locations are visited by the Clerk and/or Deputy Clerk to complete inspections of the
facility. Location specific accommodations are made and elections workers for those locations
are appropriately trained.
• Schedule multiple advance voting days to aid in and provide voting opportunities with lower
attendance.
• Advance voting days provide for a Ballot Marking device to allow for an independent ballot
marking experience for everyone.
• The Township of Wilmot provides an honorarium to Kiwanis Transit to allow for free
transportation to voting locations on Voting Day and on Advance Voting Days.
• Provide higher quality magnifying lenses at each voting location to assist those with low vision.
Devices used in election prior to 2018 used lower quality magnifying sheets that were largely
ineffective.
• In previous elections, one location, the Wilmot Recreation Complex, was noted as having
parking issues that required some voters to walk too great of a distance. The rooms used for the
voting location was on the second floor, accessible by elevators. To alleviate this issue, rooms
on the main floor were utilized.
• All election workers are provided the same Accessible Customer Service Training as full and
part time municipal staff. Election worker materials contain advice to provide barrier free voting
experiences. Election workers were encouraged to approach voters who may need assistance if
they returned more than one spoiled ballot or otherwise seemed to be struggling with the voting
process or with the physical space.
• Provide seating to voters while waiting in line at voting location.
• Ongoing feedback is received during the election process for candidates, election staff and
voters. The Township of Wilmot continues to implement best practices learned in past elections
and from other municipalities. As new technologies are made available, barrier free elections
are made more efficient and cost effective.
• Alternate voting methods continue to be explored to evaluate the cost/benefits. More
municipalities in Ontario are transitioning to online and telephone voting to provide a barrier free
election. Council will be asked to consider alternate voting methods in early 2021.
• In 2018, staff met with voters from Alderview Services to provide information on municipal
elections and the voting process. This was a fun and interactive session that allowed a group of
residents who may otherwise feel overwhelmed by the election process to feel welcomed. This
initiative will continue and opportunities for expansion will be explored. Support staff from
Alderview suggested that photos of the candidates at the voting location would be helpful to
assist Alderview residents in associating the name with the right candidate. This initiative will be
looked at to ensure compliance with the Municipal Elections Act and with the Municipal
Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
• In 2018, staff attended a seniors' residence, the Imperial, to ensure the residents were on the
voters list. These residents expressed concern that they may not to recorded on the Voters' List
properly given the newness of the property. This experience was positive for staff and for the
residents. Going to their location made amending the voters list a more accessible process. This
initiative will continue and will be expanded.
• Ensuring that the dignity and independence of voters, candidates, and election workers with
disabilities are met and that all voters with disabilities are able to participate in the election process
is essential. Significant improvements were made with respect to an accessible election in
Wilmot. The principles, practices and procedures that respect the dignity, independence of
electors through the election process were achieved for the 2014 election. The Township of
Wilmot and associated staff will be vigilant and continue our efforts to review, address and
improve the process for the 2018 municipal election.
• Policies relevant to access were included as part of orientation training for election staff.
4. Physical/Architectural Barriers
Municipal Facilities:
• In 2007 the Township of Wilmot constructed Phase I of the Wilmot Recreation Complex, a new
state of the art multi purpose facility. The facility was constructed with barrier free provisions for
accessibility. The facility design includes barrier free entrance with automated sliding doors at
the south entrance, elevator access to the upper level, accessibility ramp to the arena seating
areas, access to the seating areas by power operated doors, designated areas for those in
wheelchairs to view activities on the arena floors. The facility also includes barrier free washroom
facilities on the upper and lower levels which include accessible counters and fixtures, and
angled/sloped mirrors. Directional signage includes Braille for the visually impaired. Parking for
the current facility includes 8 accessible parking spots.
• Phase II of the Wilmot Recreation Complex was constructed in 2010/11, has also been designed
to be barrier free. Phase 11 of the Wilmot Recreation Complex exceeds the number of barrier free
provisions required by law. Phase II was completed in 2013 and includes an additional/2nd
elevator, power operated doors at each of the access points to Phase I of the facility, extra barrier
free shower stalls, extra barrier free change stalls, additional barrier free washrooms/change
rooms immediately off the pool deck including barrier free counters and fixtures, extra barrier free
parking stalls, wider walking lanes on the walking track, handrails on the walking track, extra
barrier free seating areas in the pool for both levels, a deeper covered canopy at the North
entrance, power operated doors at the additional south entrance and the north entrance of the
facility. In the Aquatic Centre both pool tanks are accessible. The competitive pool tank has an
access ramp with handrails leading down into the tank. The leisure pool has a zero-depth entry
with handrails as well.
Snow Clearance/Grass &Weeds Upkeep Barriers:
Goals:
• Investigate individuals and firms who provide assistance to people with disabilities with respect to
snow clearing and grass cutting services.
Actions:
• Volunity is the youth volunteering initiative operated by Wilmot's Youth Action Council that
addresses the gap between people or organizations in need of volunteers and people wanting to
volunteer within Wilmot. This arrangement will help to ensure that people that need assistance
will be able to stay in their homes and thereby enhance the quality of life. Please visit Volunity'
on the Township's website at www.wilmot.ca.
• Contact information for Snow Angels and Community Care Concepts is posted on the Township
website for people who need help clearing snow and ice from their sidewalks.
5. Attitudinal Barriers
Actions:
• Customer Service Standards:
The first standards under the AODA are the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service, Ontario
Regulation 429/07. Designated public sector organizations were required to comply with the
standard by January 1, 2010. This standard is the law and obligated organizations must comply
with the standards and report on compliance by a deadline of March 31, 2010.
In 2009, Wilmot Township established its Customer Service Standards Policy which was adopted
by Council on April 27, 2009. All requirements of the new Customer Service standards have been
complied with by the Township and the policy is available on the township's website or upon
request by any person.
6. Multi-year Action Plan 2021-2025
Planned Accessibility Action Items
Comprehensive Accessibility Policy Review
• The Township will undertake a review and update of the following policies and the Accessibility
Policy Program as whole:
1. Policies for the provision of goods, services, or facilities to persons with disabilities (O. Reg
191/11 section 80.46)
2. Policies for the use of service animals and support persons (O. Reg 191/11 section 80.47)
3. Policies for the notice of temporary disruptions (O. Reg 191/11 section 80.48)
4. Feedback Process policies (O. Reg 191/11 section 80.50)
5. Format of documents policies (O. Reg 191/11 section 80.51)
Information and Communications
• Continue to monitor comments received regarding accessibility for the website. Update website as
necessary to maintain compliance with current legislation and WAG guidelines
• Prepare and train staff on Style Guides including AODA compliant documents and plain language
writing.
• Review website to include the availability of accessible formats upon request.
• Provide staff with updated policies as they are approved.
• Obtain feedback from GRAAC and other organizations on community engagement procedures to
ensure Ontarians with disabilities within Wilmot are included in community consultations processes and
feel listened to.
Employment
• Ongoing training of Council and staff for new and updated policies. Training new staff on al AODA
related policies and procedures.
• Review policies and procedures related to accessibility and accommodation during the hiring process,
new staff orientation, during employment and, when applicable, when returning to work.
Transportation
• Continue to support Kiwanis Transit in the provision of accessible transit.
• Continue to support Grant River Transit to promote and enhance transit services in Wilmot Township.
Built Environment
• AODA criteria to be considered include operational experience, width, longitudinal/running slope, cross
slope, total slope surface, changes in level and signage. Guidelines and technical requirements in the
Built Environment Standards will be referred to during trail design and construction.
6. City of Waterloo 2020 Status Update, Lolita Paroski
* The City of Waterloo Multi-Year Accessibility Plan for 2018-2022 describes how the Corporation will continue
to prevent and remove accessibility barriers.
*Annual Status updates to the Accessibility plan are presented to GRAAC and made available on the City
website.
* The 2020 draft Status Update was sent to GRAAC members with the GRAAC package for review.
* Lolita went through the draft Status Update by providing status updates on the accessibility policy, plan,
procurement, training, and highlighted updates within each standard.
* Within the employment standard, the human resources department introduced an update in 2020 to the
human rights accommodation procedure for staff.
* New for 2021, Human Resources is working on the development, recruitment and hiring of a new division at
the City of Waterloo. The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion division will be comprised of a Director, an Indigenous
Initiatives Advocate, an Anti-Racism and Social Justice Advocate and an Accessibility Advocate. The
Accessibility Advocate will be supporting GRAAC as the City of Waterloo Staff Representative.
* The Design of Public Spaces Standards chart referring to the maintenance of accessible elements was
shared, and examples given of procedures for preventative maintenance and procedures for emergency
maintenance/temporary disruptions.
* In 2020, GRAAC advised on:
• Waterloo Memorial Recreational Complex expansion
• City of Waterloo East Side Branch Library
• City of Waterloo Alexandra Park
• City of Waterloo Northdale Parks
• Municipal trail through the former Waterloo Inn Hotel
• City of Waterloo Button Factory elevator installation
• City of Waterloo Transportation Master Plan
• Waterloo Park guide strips to the washroom building
• City of Waterloo Neighbourhood Matching Grant Gaga Pit at a neighbourhood park
• Delegate at City of Waterloo Council regarding Longfellow drive sidewalk installation
• City of Waterloo Laurel Greenway Feasibility Study
• Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex interior signage
A section "the impact of COVID-19 on GRAAC" is in the 2020 status update recognizing the switch to virtual
meetings, how the pandemic has provided GRAAC the opportunity to complete work in different ways and has
delayed site visits for built environment projects.
Question:
What is an RFX, I know that an RFP is a Request for Proposal?A RFX is an acronym used to describe any
type of solicitation, for example - Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Tender (RFT), Request for
Information (RFI).
7. Elections, Jeff Smith
GRAAC Co-chairs:
Jeff called for nominations:
Donna Hartzler, nominated by Carrie, did not accept the nomination
Dawn Clelland, nominated by Brenda, accepted nomination
Brenda Robinson, nominated by Dawn, accepted nomination
Nominations closed. Brenda and Dawn acclaimed as GRAAC Co-chairs.
Built Environment Sub-Committee Chair:
Jeff called for nominations:
Paula Saunders, nominated by Dawn
Nominations closed. Paula acclaimed as Built Environment Sub-Committee Chair.
Elections closed
Break (15 min)
8. Election Results, Jeff Smith
Co-chairs for the committee will be Dawn Clelland and Brenda Robinson.
Chair of Built Environment Sub Committee will be Paula Saunders.
9. City of Kitchener, National AccessAbility Week brainstorm, Nadine McNeelands
This year will mark the 4th annual National AccessAbility week. It is scheduled to take place from
May 30 to June 5. National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) is a time when accessibility and inclusion
are promoted across communities and workplaces, and a time to celebrate the contributions of
Canadians with disabilities. It is an opportunity to recognize the efforts of Canadians who are actively
removing barriers and ensuring persons with disabilities have an equal chance to participate in all
aspects of Canadian society. Last year, a webinar series was offered called "Life Made
Accessible" with a different topic and guest speakers over the course of 5 days. Topics included: the
connection between mental health, disability and COVID 19 and disability within family. The
response was positive, each topic was engaging and well attended. This year, the committee would
like to build off that success and continue with our "Life Made Accessible" webinar series. This year's
focus on "Accessing the Future".
Daily topics would include:
1. Technology
2. Assistive Devices
3. Information and Communications
4. Employment
5. "Ally-ship" (disability allies)
Recognizing the knowledge and expertise on this committee, they are seeking the committee's input
and ideas about these topics and specifically if you feel there is someone who would make a good
guest speaker or subject matter expert. We look forward to keeping this committee informed as we
progress with planning and hope that as promotional material becomes available, you would
consider promoting the series amongst your networks.
Comments/Feedback:
• Great designs coming out for assisted devices, highlight technology they know about.
• Jolene would like to connect with Nadine outside of this meeting. Nadine to leave her contact
information.
• Small and large business owners need to be reached out to be better informed around disabilities
perhaps reaching and inviting the BIA to the website during National AccessAbility Week.
it would be nice to have some speak to how to influence and advocate for change. Also, how to create
an environment where people feel comfortable to do so.
10. City of Kitchener 2020 Status Update, Lolita Paroski
* The City of Kitchener Multi-Year Accessibility Plan for 2018-2022 describes how the Corporation will continue
to prevent and remove accessibility barriers.
*Annual Status updates to the Accessibility plan are presented to GRAAC and made available on the City
website.
* The 2020 draft Status Update was sent to GRAAC members with the GRAAC package for review.
* Lolita went through the draft Status Update by providing status updates on the accessibility policy, plan,
procurement, training, and highlighted updates within each standard.
* The City is currently updating the website and GRAAC has been involved with providing feedback. The
transformed website is planned to go live in March 2021. Lolita will send through email information of how
GRAAC can provide feedback on the website new online experience.
* The Design of Public Spaces Standards chart referring to the maintenance of accessible elements was
shared, and examples given of procedures for preventative maintenance and procedures for emergency
maintenance/temporary disruptions.
In 2020, GRAAC advised on:
• City of Kitchener Survivor Garden at Victoria Park
• City of Kitchener Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre Outdoor Seating
• City of Kitchener Love my Hood project at Our Lady of Grace School
• City of Kitchener Website
• City of Kitchener Downtown Cycling Grid
• City of Kitchener Kiwanis Park accessible pathway to destination points
• A GRAAC member sits on the City of Kitchener Mayor's Task Force on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
A section "the impact of COVID-19 on GRAAC" is in the 2020 status update recognizing the switch to virtual
meetings, how the pandemic has provided GRAAC the opportunity to complete work in different ways and has
delayed site visits for built environment projects.
11. Built Environment Sub Committee Update, Paula Saunders
Schlegel Park
• Phase 1
o They did install a rubberized surface at the playground
• Phase 2
o Reviewed the plans for the washrooms
o Level entry
o Universal washroom and universal change room will have an adult change table
o Will go on site to determine where soap dispenser, towels or dryers will go
o Operations Centre is for staff only but will be accessible
Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex
o Five new accessible parking spaces are done
o Project is 40-50% complete
o Hauser Fitness Centre
o Walking track
o Discussion on the surface and colour contrast, athletic tile will be used
o Will be going with a dark blue with a white line down the middle
o Will contrast with the wall colour and the flooring beside it
o All change rooms will be updated in the Fall
o Tactile wayfinding will be installed at the front door, to reception and to the elevator. Will
investigate having it to a washroom as well
East Side Branch Library
o First project to put in tactile wayfinding , from entrance to an area of support, as well to the Universal
washroom and inside the washroom leading to the sink and the toilet
Bavarian Eatery Stand
o Current design will have a fold down accessible shelf installed on the ends
o New ones being built will have a fold down accessible shelf beside the standard height fold down shelf
Waterloo Council Chambers
o Being redone
o Initial meeting to discuss accessibility
o Plans will come to GRAAC when available
12. Committee Updates, All Members
City of Kitchener, Mayor's Task Force, Brenda Robinson
• Nothing to report, did not meet over Christmas
Region of Waterloo, Multi-Use Trails Committee, Dawn Clelland
GRAAC's subcommittee is focusing on multiuse trails, especially multiuse trails that are not used for
recreational purposes.
Legislation was looked at and there are two types of pedestrian paths. One is a multi-use trail, which is for
recreational purposes. It would be places like the Spur Line, the Great Canadian trails. The other type runs
along the roadside. The legislation calls this a path of travel the sidewalk. There is legislation regarding
sidewalks and their uses.
Two meetings are scheduled prior to the ATAC meeting on February 16th. The first is with the region to find
out more information about these sidewalks which are deemed to be shared with bicycles, so that we can have
a clearer understanding of their stance. Then there we will be a meeting to discuss what will be shared at the
ATAC meeting. Speed is a priority as these paths are currently being built or are in the planning stage.
Concerns need to be shared as soon as possible.
Region of Waterloo, Accessible Taxi, Donna Hartzler
• Nothing to report
13. Councillor Reports (10 min) All Councillors
• Nothing to report
14. Co-chair/Staff Reports (5 min) Brenda Robinson, Staff Reps
• Melanie Garbarz, Region of Waterloo —
• ION transit looking for input from GRAAC to do formal audits on the individual ION stations. Tentatively
scheduled for the end of February. Melanie to send email to the committee via email. Paula, Berny,
Dawn and Carrie had previously volunteered to help.
Dawn motioned to adjourn, Donna seconded, meeting adjourned
Please send regrets to Janis McKenzie —janis.mckenzie&kitchener.ca
Next Regular Meeting —Thursday February 25, 2021 at 1:30pm, Zoom