The Greenfield Common Council on Dec. 16 approved an ordinance that assigns responsibility to the city planner to respond to requests for reasonable accommodations under disability law related to zoning.

Staff explained that the municipal code did not previously specify who had the authority to grant such accommodations. During the hearing, staff described a real‑world example in which a family sought permission to expand fencing around a home to protect a disabled child who was a flight risk; it was unclear which official could authorize the accommodation under current code. "So, the proposed ordinance would assign the authority to the city planner," staff said.

Councilors asked for practical examples and discussed whether the change should apply elsewhere (for example, at elections). Staff clarified the proposed change pertains to zoning code and not other municipal functions. Alderperson Acres moved to approve; Alderperson Druswicky seconded and the council approved the ordinance on a roll‑call vote.

The ordinance formalizes the delegation so that staff with zoning expertise can provide prompt, limited accommodations that do not fundamentally alter the law but will help ensure equal access for people with disabilities.