Needham Commission on Disabilities approves Karen Morales as co-chair

The Needham Commission on Disabilities voted unanimously June 17 to approve Karen Morales as the commission's co-chair during its regular meeting.

The vote came after members discussed Morales' nomination and thanked her for accepting despite not being present at the meeting. Maureen (commission member) moved to accept the nomination, and the motion passed on a roll-call vote with yes votes recorded from Tatiana, Alexa, Maureen, Carol, Jeannie and Felix.

The nomination followed the commission's chairperson's report and brief remarks from members acknowledging the leadership transition. Members noted Jeannie will continue as a member while Morales assumes co-chair duties and that the commission must now recruit to fill its ninth seat.

Commission members said they will encourage applicants who meet the commission's preference for members with lived experience of disability but acknowledged the town may appoint a candidate without a disability if a qualified applicant cannot be found. Jill Yanovsky was cited by members as an interested candidate who has attended prior meetings and will be asked to apply once the vacancy is posted; staff member Miles will handle scheduling and the application process.

The commission did not take any additional formal actions regarding recruitment at the June 17 meeting; members asked colleagues to refer potential candidates and to follow the town's application process once the position is posted.

The commission plans to continue its regular business at future meetings while the co-chair transition and recruitment proceed.