Commission for Persons with Disabilities Medford Human Rights Commission December 12, 2013

Present: Steve Honeycutt, Natalie Breen, Marie Cassidy, Diane McLeod, Dale Bryan, and Charlotte Swartz Not present: Lois Bronnenkant, Henry Milorin, David Harris, and Chief Sacco Introductions Public Participation November Minutes Marie motioned to accept, Steve seconded, all in favor Old Business Review of Traces Project We agreed it went well, and we continue with planning for 2014. We discussed it in detail at our last Traces meeting. Diane handed out the letters and draft flyers for the MLK event solicitations. She also sent them as a pdf to all members. Dale initiated a discussion that included persons with disabilities, persons who are disenfranchised, juveniles caught in the criminal justice system, etc. We discussed whether it is finding a job, getting a good education, etc. that it is the responsibility of all of the community to participate. He referenced Michelle Alexanders talk and book, Prison is the New Jim Crow. Diane mentioned having a community conversation as part of our program, which could include the Chamber, the new head of the Vocational School, the Headmaster, etc. Diane mentioned that she met with Michael Skorker and the GSA and they would like to do something together. We talked about the end of March as an event put on by the students and supported by our Commission and the community. Dale mentioned that he, Neil, and Allison have not met with students yet. Diane will send an email to the group and copy Mr. Skorker to connect everyone. New Business Ways to Go Diane mentioned the forum on December 3rd at the Senior Center on transportation orientation. It went well and people signed up to attend. Diane met a blind gentleman who she has since met with regarding available city services. Variance Updates

Steve asked about the kitchen place on Mystic. Diane will follow up. Diane just received a variance update request from the AAB for the Dental Office lift. They needed another few weeks to complete and it was granted. Correspondence & Announcements Diane mentioned how well the Judy Shepard event went. It was video taped by the MHS students for school use only. She has since connected with the GSA at the High School. Next meeting date January 22, 2014