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Alameda disability commission re-elects chair, highlights outreach, accessible-event rules and pathway concerns
Summary
Commissioners re-elected their chair and vice chair, discussed neighborhood pathway and Harbor Bay access problems raised by residents, and heard staff previews of a website user-test (Nov. 19), the Point-in-Time homeless count (Jan. 22, 2026), an accessible-event checklist for permit applicants and a portable wheelchair lift available for city event sites.
The Commission on Persons with Disabilities unanimously re-elected Chair Mullings to a one-year term and selected Commissioner Kathleen Bon Smith as vice chair for calendar year 2026, citing continuity for incoming members.
Commission communications focused on community access issues beyond the two presentations. Commissioners and public members reported that segments of the Harbor Bay pathway and other trails have loose gravel, uneven surfacing and steep cambers that make walking, running and especially low-recumbent and three-wheel mobility devices difficult. A commissioner who spoke with a wheelchair user on the path said the user had previously fallen and encouraged others to submit ClickFix reports so staff can route jurisdictional responsibilities (some stretches are maintained by East Bay Regional Parks).
Staff updates and operational items announced include: - Website user-testing session: Nov. 19 at the Mastick Senior Center, aimed at residents who use assistive technology. - Point-in-Time homeless count: Jan. 22, 2026; volunteers requested. - Accessible-event checklist: now part of the city's special-event permit package; applicants must answer accessibility items or explain accommodations. - Portable wheelchair/mobility lift: Alameda Recreation and Parks (ARPD) purchased a portable lift that can be rented for permitted city events to make stages accessible.
The meeting closed with plans for future briefings (including possible East Bay Regional Parks outreach) and a reminder that the commission's next meeting is Jan. 14, 2026.
