A group of concerned citizens meet to discuss disability issues in our community.

Projects and Program Initiated by MCOD.

Established the first ADA Transition Plan for Methuen required by the U.S. Department of Justice.  This plan included required accessibility improvements in a public buildings.  1996
 
One of the first communities in the state to establish a Handicap Parking Monitoring Program with the cooperation of the Methuen Police Department to monitor handicap parking spaces.  Designated members of MCOD are permitted to collect information for any vehicle parked in a handicap parking space illegally.  The monitor records such information and provides it to the police department where they issue a ticket for parking illegally in a HP Space. 1995
 
Initiated legislation in Methuen to place handicap parking fine fees to a disabilities fund instead of the reserve fund.  These funds are to be used solely for disability improvements and programs for the city of Methuen and is overseen by MCOD. 1995
 
Filed and received a state grant for access improvements to Forest Lake.  2002
 
Filed and received a state grant for handicap parking and access to the Methuen High School Ice Rink. 1997
 
Assisted the City of Methuen to make accessibility improvements at City Hall and the Quinn Public Safety Building. 1998
 
Appropriated MCOD Funds for an accessible playground area at the Veteran's Field. 1999
 
Appropriated MCOD Funds to install push button door openers at all K8 Schools in Methuen. 2007

Appropriated MCOD Funds to install a push button door opener at the Nevins Memorial Library. 2008
 
Appropriated MCOD Funds to install a push button door opener at the School Administration Building on Ditson Place. 2009
 
Hosted regional Massachusetts Commission on Disabilities conference in April 2009.

Filed and granted local legislation with the Methuen City Council to establish an Access Coordinator. This position works under the Mayor's Office and is a liaison for the Disabilities Commission to oversee and work with community departments when addressing access to current city properties as well as new commercial construction. 2006
 
Filed and granted legislation with Methuen City Council with the support of Mayor William M Manzi to establish a new ordinance for new constructed facilities in Methuen.  The first piece of legislation of it's kind in Massachusetts, the legislation mandates that all new construction in the City of Methuen will require, at a minimum... a "push button door opener" in the main accessible entrance of a building. 2009