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Holyoke Commission on Disability actions: minutes approved; applications and budget items tabled or advanced
Summary
At its March 27 meeting the commission approved February minutes (one abstention), tabled a handicap-parking application and a variance for further review, and voted unanimously to pursue four budget categories to request a dedicated fund sourced from handicap-parking fines.
The Holyoke Commission on Disability met March 27 and recorded several formal actions.
Minutes: The commission approved minutes from the February meeting. The chair called for a vote; three members responded “aye” and Betty Larabee abstained. The motion carried with the recorded abstention noted.
Tabled application: The commission tabled consideration of a new handicap-parking application tied to an applicant named Yolanda Velazquez at 120 Oak Street. Commissioners said they had not all received the most recent application packet and asked for a site visit and clarification before making a decision. A motion to table was made and seconded.
Variance: The commission also tabled a variance application for a proposed multiunit renovation at 174 Lyman/95 Maple (owner from Westfield). Commissioners asked for a drive-by inspection and additional review of accessible parking, egress and whether any first-floor apartments could be made accessible; a motion to table the item passed.
Budget categories: The commission voted unanimously to move forward with initiating discussions on establishing an independent budget funded by handicap-parking fines and to adopt four initial categories for recommended spending: (1) commission needs (surveys, outreach, small equipment), (2) accessible transportation, (3) aid to students with disabilities, and (4) accessibility improvements to city buildings that serve the community. Commissioners asked staff and liaisons to prepare materials to present to the mayor’s office and city council and to meet with police and the clerk’s office as part of the preparation.
Notifications: Commissioners noted receipt of a state variance hearing notice related to the Dwight Street parking garage. The commission said it was registered as notified (the commission had approved a prior variance years earlier) and will attend if necessary.
All recorded motions and outcomes are summarized below.
