Disability commission asks DPW to change recycling drop-off residency proof that blocks nondrivers

The Framingham City Disability Commission voted on May 28 to send a formal letter to the Department of Public Works asking officials to revise proof-of-residency requirements at the city recycling drop-off center so residents who do not drive can participate.

Commissioner Susie Santo told the commission she had been unable to obtain a recycling permit because DPW requires vehicle registration or a car-insurance document as proof of residency. "I don't have a car. I can't show them anything," she said, and argued the requirement excludes residents who are disabled and do not drive. Santo asked the commission to request alternative, accessible proof-of-residency options such as a state ID with a Framingham address or a city-issued card.

Commissioners discussed potential alternatives and agreed to send a formal letter asking DPW Director Dave Correa to review the residency proof rule and consider accommodation options for residents who rely on rides, public transit, or caregivers. Chair Catherine Cuddy said she wanted the mayor’s office and city council copied on the request to raise departmental awareness. "I would like it as a formal letter. I would do a formal letter to the DPW director requesting a policy change and just making them aware of the issue," Commissioner Megan Todd said during discussion.

The motion to send the letter passed by roll call at the May 28 meeting. Commissioners said the change would remove an unintentional access barrier for residents who cannot provide vehicle documentation and that a city-issued alternative card or an accepted state ID should resolve the problem.

The commission asked staff to prepare the draft letter and to copy the mayor’s office and city council; it also asked to check the DPW website policy language and report back with DPW responses at a future meeting.