Planning Accessible Meetings Procedure

Purpose statement

This procedure provides a checklist of accessibility considerations for meetings hosted by the Town so people of all abilities are able to fully participate in community life.

Scope

This procedure applies to all public meetings hosted by the Town and its boards and committees, including Council and standing committee meetings, public information meetings and forums and board and advisory committee meetings.

Procedure

The Town will ensure reasonable accommodation is made and its meetings are accessible so that people of all abilities are able to fully participate in community life.

Key areas of consideration include:

1. Access to meeting information and proceedings
2. Physical access to the meeting space

The Accessible Meeting Checklist should be used when planning a meeting, attached as Appendix A. The Town’s Public Engagement Guide should be used as a resource when planning meetings.

Staff shall ensure any meeting notice is provided in accordance with the Town’s Public Notice and Engagement Policy.

Definitions

For the purpose of this procedure, definitions of barriers and ‘disabilities are the same as those in the AODA.

Responsibilities

All departments are responsible for following the Accessible Meeting Checklist.