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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBy-law No. 2016-103 THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM BY-LAW NO. 2016-103 BEING A BY-LAW TO AMEND BY-LAW 2015-040 A BY-LAW TO ADOPT ACCESSIBILITY PLAN —POLICIES UNDER THE ACCESSIBILITY OF ONTARIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, 2005 WHEREAS the Council of the Municipality of Bayham on the 2nd day of April, 2015 enacted By-Law 2015-040, being a by-law to adopt Accessibility Plan—Policies under The Accessibility of Ontarians With Disabilities Act, 2005; AND WHEREAS Council is desirous of amending By-law 2015-040; NOW THEREFORE THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM ENACTS AS FOLLOWS: 1. THAT 2015-2020 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and Municipality of Bayham Accessibility Policy be removed and replaced with amended 2015-2020 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and Municipality of Bayham Accessibility Policy affixed hereto and forming part of this by-law; 2. THAT in all other respects, By-law 2015-040 is hereby confirmed and remains unchanged; 3. AND THAT this by-law shall come into force and take effect upon final passing. READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 1st DAY OF DECEMBER 2016. • MAYOR '� The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham 2015-2020 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan ,... _;. ".. 41 j. L0.1 'IP' ...7.'-'-- ,---I'll,' 'ft Stililr-i!-''- --''''''' 11! 4'447 a'fi '''' -R*= a r;4,,. t�AS Y^, V _'��Yha�4 F 3 Fe" i n r t r p { s— p ei m IlN3! r r , �� �� '*;mow , -•_ q- J r -._. ' ,I21 r, 7:44ii l 1. La ...3 2g.,�-04,,......- -, j..S, re"'°�+- mF,✓- ,,{ :7-:y.:1` 4 4 6'Y6...: m�"" .,...,....wi. 4...;...t.,.;.1.°,1...`4.4,7„: ,e F..'.W r ` Y' i� A'.moi' '#� . T d� }. �a'i ,, a i : ¢aBS.e'-- s{ 47 $l.* 9 s x a TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 2. GOVERNING LEGISLATION 2 3. COMMITMENT TO ACCESSIBILITY PLANNING 4 4. HOLISTIC ACCESSIBILITY, INCLUSION &YOU 5 5. IMPORTANCE OF ACCESSIBILITY & INCLUSION 6 6. ACCESSIBILITY PARTNERSHIP IN ELGIN COUNTY & BEYOND 7 7. BARRIER EXAMPLES 8 8. REVIEW& MONITORING PROCESS 10 9. COMMUNICATION OF THE PLAN 11 10. GLOSSARY 12 11. APPENDICES Appendix 'A' 15 Appendix 'B' 19 Executive Summary The need to improve accessibility is becoming more pronounced ins° Ontario as the population ages and the labour force shrinks. According to the Ministry of Community and sot Social Services, approximately 1.85 million people or 15.5% of people in Ontario have some type of disability; that is 1 in every 7 Ontarians. By 2036, that number ��� ,1 will rise to 1 in 5 as the population ages. In the next 20 years, the aging population and people with disabilities will represent 40% of the total income in Ontario, that's $536 billion dollars (Ontario Population Projections 2008-2036, Fall 2009 Ministry of Finance Report). A University of Toronto study further concluded that disability tends to increase with age, with the highest incidence of occurrence among individuals forty-five years of age and older. It is important to note the increasing aging population in the Municipality of Bayham, as older persons have higher tendencies to experience declining functional abilities. Accordingly, the 2011 Census revealed that 2,680 people, or 38% of the population of the Municipality of Bayham are forty-five years of age or older. This statistic provides the impetus for removing and preventing barriers in the Municipality of Bayham to allow for holistic accessibility and inclusion. The 2015-2020 Municipality of Bayham Multi-Year Accessibility Plan was prepared int order to meet the obligations of the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). The 2015-2020 Municipality of Bayham Multi-Year Accessibility Plan reviews earlier efforts to remove and prevent barriers to people with disabilities and identifies the measures to be undertaken in the coming years to increase accessibility and inclusion in the Municipality. The 2015-2020 Municipality of Bayham Multi-Year Accessibility Plan also describes how the Municipality of Bayham will make the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan available to the public, provide opportunity for feedback and strive towards a holistically accessible and inclusive Municipality. 1 Governing Legislation There are two pieces of broad legislation in Ontario that speak to accessibility for individuals with disabilities as well as impact directly on the Municipality. The Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) directs that municipalities with more than 10,000 residents appoint Accessibility Advisory Committees as well as create and make public an annual accessibility plan. More recently, the Province passed the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) which also includes the (1111111 !; development of mandatory accessibility standards that will identify, remove and prevent barriers for people with disabilities in key areas of daily living. Enforceable requirements will ensure the removal of these barriers in both the public and private sectors with the aim of a fully-accessible province by 2025. These ' accessibility standards include: • Accessible Customer Service Standard This standard ensures that goods and services are provided in a manner that takes into account persons with disabilities. Requirements include policy development and extensive training thereof for all employees who deal directly or indirectly with the public. The training is key in assuring accessible customer service is provided by the Municipality. • Integrated Accessibility Standard Areas of information and communication, employment and transportation often contain barriers for persons with disabilities. The Accessibility Directorate determined that these three key areas will be combined and the accessibility requirements identified in a single regulation. Compliance deadlines vary according to the type of organization and the particular component of each individual requirement, i.e. Communications & Information, Transportation or Employment. 2 • Built Environment Standards The Accessibility Standards for the Built Environment focus on removing barriers in two areas: Ontario Building Code Ontario's Building Code was amended to include enhancements to accessibility in buildings. As of January 1, 2015, new construction and renovations will be subject to updated accessibility requirements. Accessibility Standard for the Design of Public Spaces The standard for the design of public spaces only applies to new construction and major changes to existing features. The standard covers: i. Recreational trails/beach access routes ii. Outdoor public eating areas like rest stops or picnic areas iii. Outdoor play spaces, like playgrounds in provincial parks and local communities iv. Outdoor paths of travel, like sidewalks, ramps, stairs, curb ramps and rest areas v. Service-related elements like service counters, fixed queuing lines and waiting areas 3 Commitment to Accessibility Planning The Council of the Municipality of Bayham is committed to: ' The continual improvement, over time, of access to all municipal facilities, programs and services for those with disabilities, while having regard for the financial constraints faced by the Municipality. • The concept of universal design which makes the environment more user friendly for everyone. • The provision of quality Municipal services to all members of the community. ' Accessibility training • Incorporating accessibility into the daily functions of all employees The process of accessibility planning is one that is never complete. Staff, Council and the Public are continually involved in discussions regarding accessibility planning year- round. The Municipality of Bayham Accessibility Plan provides the opportunity to demonstrate current achievements in accessibility and to establish implementation framework and future priority initiatives. Please refer to Appendix 'A' attached hereto to review the Municipality's current achievements in accessibility and inclusion. Please refer to Appendix 'B' attached hereto to review the Municipality's future priority initiatives to improve accessibility and inclusion. pt_ .. V,L*‘,.,".--,0,, F*S A.-' ,•°t;".:, . i i9 , r35 4T E rah - rri m ...„, ..igta. « `'l J k t 2 - ..4;.s, ___ „. e M ,_ r r , ,, .-,a,,,,:::i.(-..--. 11,,h4, .,.., � � as -_ '.:: .......r.ski.-.Ea-zrs.a '.. —,_-_. 4 Holistic Accessibility, Inclusion & You Recognizing that the Municipality of Bayham, organizations, businesses, and community agencies (including businesses and organizations that provide services, supplies or products, to, or on behalf of the Municipality of Bayham) set the tone for the community, the Municipality will do the following and encourage other organizations to do the same: • ensure that this policy is widely communicated and that all employees, and others to whom the policy applies, understand its intent; • ensure that existing policies and practices, including employment policies, are built upon non-discriminatory bases such as merit; that future policies and practices meet the objectives of this policy; and that revisions are communicated to the entire organization; • review current practices to ensure that every person is treated without discrimination and to eliminate barriers in accessing goods and services; • seek opportunities to involve people of diverse backgrounds in the design, use and evaluation of goods and services; • provide training and involve staff and volunteers in activities designed to promote an awareness, acceptance, and celebration of accessibility and inclusion; • establish mechanisms to ensure that discrimination and harassment are not encouraged or tolerated; • monitor organizational compliance with this policy; and lead by example. What can you do? • recognize that social change begins with individual change; you can, as a resident or visitor of the Municipality of Bayham, initiate change; • evaluate your own actions and preconceived biases and ideas about accessibility and inclusion; • educate yourself, volunteer your time and participate in activities which will broaden your experience with accessibility and inclusion; • encourage and support the development of programs and projects that promote holistic accessibility and inclusion; • advocate for both the elimination of barriers and discrimination and the celebration of accessibility and diversity within your own workplace and community; • challenge barriers and discrimination when you experience them or become aware of their existence. 5 Importance of Accessibility & Inclusion? • When we encourage the full and active participation of every person, we are drawing on the diverse life experiences and points of view of our fellow citizens, which leads to innovative solutions; • When we promote the Municipality of Bayham as a diverse Municipality that is welcoming of all people, the Municipality is more competitive in the economic marketplace and more attractive as a destination for visitors and new residents; • When we respect, value, and nurture accessibility and inclusion as an exciting and integral part of our collective experience and identity, we can strengthen and create a safe, healthy, and vibrant community; • In order to enjoy the benefits of a holistically accessible and inclusive community, we need to address barriers that impede equal participation, work toward the elimination of bias, prejudice and discrimination • (which can be intentional, unintentional or systemic). Responsibility Every resident, organization, institution, agency, government and individual has an opportunity to make this plan successful. We are all leaders. This plan is designed to create plenty of opportunities for all voices to be heard and new leaders to emerge. 6 Accessibility Partnership in Elgin County & Beyond All lower tier Elgin County Municipalities utilize the Accessibility Coordinator services provided by Elgin County. Elgin County coordinates regular meetings with local municipal accessibility staff, which provides the opportunity to share best practices and information. Additionally, Accessibility Coordinators meet regularly with staff counterparts across the County and Southwestern Ontario to discuss ongoing planning and implementation. The Municipality of Bayham Accessibility Coordinator is also a member of the Ontario Network of Accessibility Professionals (ONAP), a group comprised primarily of staff responsible for accessibility planning in the municipal sector. The network provides the opportunity to share accessibility planning resources and initiatives across the province. P i ' 'tet 1 t ' k r - �a F:� i � AP* i. / pie gyp- I w t '� te 1 i 7 Barrier Examples The intent of the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan is to prevent, identify and remove barriers. Barriers are obstacles that stand in the way of people with disabilities from being able to do many of the day-to-day activities that most people take for granted.A barrier is defined as anything that prevents a person with a disability from fully participating in all aspects of society because of the disability. The traditional definition of a barrier used in the context of accessibility has been expanded to include obstacles beyond physical boundaries. There are several other categories of barriers to consider, such as • Environmental Barriers: features, buildings or spaces that restrict or impede physical access. For example, a doorway that is too narrow to accommodate entry by person in a motorized scooter. • Communication Barriers: obstacles with processing, transmitting or interpreting information. For example, print on a brochure that is too small to read or documents not available in alternative formats. • Attitudinal Barriers: prejudgments or assumptions that directly or indirectly discriminate. For example, assuming that all visually impaired persons can read Braille. • Technological Barriers: when technology cannot or is not modified to support various assistive devices and/or software. For example, a website that does not provide for increased text size or contrast options. • Systemic Barriers: barriers within an organization's policies, practices and procedures that do not consider accessibility. For example, listing a driver's licence as an employment qualification for an office position may prohibit persons with visual impairments from applying. Members of Council, Municipal staff and Committee members must keep in mind that barriers can be either "systemic" or "specific"; that is, barriers that are prevalent throughout the Municipality or are just specific to one process or facility. 8 Two examples are: A Systemic Barrier: Job postings and public meeting notices are advertised in local newspapers and on the website. As the Municipal website does not have a program for the visually impaired, and visually impaired residents may not be able to read the newspaper, not all residents or viewers have equal access to the information. A Specific Barrier: There is no accessible entrance at the Vienna Community Centre, therefore any person unable to utilize the stairs is prevented from participating in events hosted at the Community Centre. 0' "..4. 0 .....f _-..-..-...... -....✓ ni 0 4**.a P , tils . i.,„,„,, lb Ir 9 Review & Monitoring Process The Accessibility Plan is intended as a working document. Comments and recommendations will be noted throughout the upcoming year. These comments and recommendations will then be taken into account during the compilation of the 2016 Annual Accessibility Plan. Accessibility improvements, ideologies and benchmarks continue to be solidified with planning concepts that develop into Municipal procedures and processes. • User• 14‘ Testin for Web A e ibilit Additional evaluation and reporting efforts include: • Annual review of the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and preparation of a progress report. • Annual progress report prepared for Council to identify progress of the Plan's implementation, accomplishments and achievements; posted online and available in alternative formats upon request. • Compliance reports submitted to the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario, which regulates compliance for all Ontario Organizations 10 Communication of the Plan Feedback is an integral part of the evaluation process. The Municipality of Bayham will continue to review and expand consultation strategies to engage key groups in providing accessibility related feedback, including people with disabilities. Members of the public are encouraged to make comments on the Municipality of Bayham Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and accessibility matters in general. There are a number of ways you can contact the Municipality of Bayham to express your accessibility related comments including contacting the undersigned. The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham 9344 Plank Rd Bayham ON NOJ 1Y0 Phone: 519-866-5521 Email: accessibility a(�?.bayham.on.ca The 2015-2020 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan will also be available in the following locations: Report to Council: Initially, this Accessibility Plan will be made available through a report to Council. Website: The 2015-2020 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan can be accessed through the Municipality of Bayham website www L)_a_ytLam 11 Glossary Accessibility: In a context relating to people with disabilities, the term can be defined as the degree with which people with disabilities are able to access the functionality, and possible benefit, of some system or entity. Essentially, `Accessibility' refers to the potential for a product or service to be beneficial to as many people as possible. Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA): Legislation enacted by the Province of Ontario in June of 2005, that provides the framework by which certain accessibility standards will be developed to ensure that businesses and organizations maintain practices and provide goods and services in a manner that is accessible to everyone including people with disabilities. The goal of the AODA is to build on the framework of the ODA, establish enforceable and qualitative standards in order to assist in developing a "fully accessible" province by 2025. Accessible Formats: May include, but not limited to large print, recorded audio and electronic formats, Braille and other formats useable by persons with disabilities. Assistive Device: Any auxiliary tool, aid, technology or other mechanism that enables a person with a disability to do everyday tasks and activities such as moving, communicating or lifting; assists in accessing goods, services or information and helps the person to maintain independence. Examples include but are not limited to: communication aids, cognition aids, personal mobility aids, and medical aids. Barrier: Anything that prevents a person with a disability from fully participating in all aspects of society due to their disability. The definition is not limited to structural or physical impediments, it can also relate to various other obstacles such as systemic, attitudinal, technological, informational, etc. Designated Public Sector Organization: Every municipality and every person or organization listed in Column 1 of Table 1 of Ontario Regulation 146/10 (Public Bodies and Commission Public Bodies — Definitions) made under the Public Service of Ontario Act, 2006. 12 Disability: The ODA and AODA both adopt the broad definition for disability that is set out in the Ontario Human Rights Code, "Disability" is: • Any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical co-ordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device; • A condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability; • A learning disability, or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language; • A mental disorder; or. • An injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997; ("handicap"). Information: Includes data, facts and knowledge that exist in any format, including text, audio, digital or images, that convey meaning. Multi-Year Accessibility Plan: A program and itemization of forecasted initiatives to identify past achievements with respect to improving accessibility for people with disabilities, formulating future goals and providing a context by which both can be assessed and evaluated. Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA): Legislation enacted by the Province in November of 2001 to 'improve opportunities for persons with disabilities and provide for their involvement in the identification, removal and prevention of barriers'. The ODA required municipalities with more than 10,000 residents to develop an Accessibility Advisory Committee and to submit an annual Accessibility Plan to the province. The AODA will eventually replace the ODA; however, a date for its repeal has not yet been determined. Ontario Human Rights Code: A provincial law in Ontario that gives all citizens equal rights and opportunities without discrimination in specific areas such as employment, housing and services. The Human Rights Commission was established as an oversight and appeal body in relation to the law. Prior to the ODA being enacted in 2001, the Human Rights Code was the only applicable legislation to uphold accessibility rights. 13 Ontario Regulation 429/07 (Accessible Customer Service Standard): The first standard to be released under the AODA which took force and effect for all public organizations on January 1, 2010 and private organizations on January 1, 2012. The standard mandates the development of policies, practices and procedures in the areas of communication, notice for disruption of services, service and support animals, assistive devices, training and customer feedback in relation to the core principles of the standard; dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity. Ontario Regulation 191/11 (Integrated Accessibility Standards): The second standard to be released under the AODA which took force and effect for all public organizations on July 1, 2011. The standard consolidates the development of policies, practices and procedures in the areas of information and communications, employment and transportation within a phased implementation schedule. Redeployment: The reassignment of employees to other departments or jobs within the organization Standard: The criterion establishing what a person or organization must accomplish to achieve the minimum level of compliance.Accessibility Standards will be legislated by way of Ontario Regulations pursuant to the AODA. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG): International guidelines to ensure consistent web accessibility; the World Wide Web Consortium recommendation, dated December 2008, entitled "Web Content Accessibility Guidelines" (WCAG) 2.0. 14 Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Legislation Ontario Regulation 191/11 — The Integrated Accessibility Standards Ontario Regulation 429/07 — Accessibility Standards for Customer Service The Municipality of Bayham is dedicated to promoting, enhancing and creating, where possible, a barrier-free environment for all persons, regardless of needs, to participate as fully as possible in all aspects of community life. The following table depicts the Municipality's compliance with the various regulations stemming from the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. The Municipality has taken a proactive approach to compliance with the legislation and regulations and is on track to satisfy all requirements under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act by January 2014. The Municipality's compliance with the legislation will allow resources to be directed towards increasing policy and program efficiency and effectiveness, while also reaching out into the community to assist the private sector with legislative compliance in an effort to make the Municipality of Bayham holistically accessible and inclusive. Compliance Legislated Requirement Area of Action Plan or Status Date Responsibility January 2010 Accessibility Standards for Customer Service: CAO The Municipality is in compliance with this Establishment of policies, practices and requirement procedures regarding Accessible Customer Service Procedure, Service Animals and Support Persons Procedure, Disruption in Municipal Service Procedure, Feedback Mechanisms Procedure and the Accessible Customer Service Feedback Form. Compliance Legislated Requirement Area of Action Plan or Status Date Responsibility January Emergency Procedure, Plans or Safety CAO The CAO will arrange to 2012 information: provide emergency information in accessible Provide or arrange for the provision of formats upon request. accessible formats and communication supports for persons with a disability, as soon This requirement relies as is practical upon request. on the use of the Alternate Formats Policy The Municipality is in compliance with this requirement 15 Compliance Legislated Requirement Area of Action Plan or Status Date Responsibility January 2012 Workplace Emergency Response: CAO The Municipality of Bayham Workplace Provide individualized workplace emergency Emergency Response response information to employees who have a Procedure is an internal disability, if the disability is such that the policy available to all individualized information is necessary and the Municipal staff and is employer is aware of the need to provide circulated to new accommodation. employees during orientation and to If employee requires assistance,with the existing employees once employee's consent,the employer shall provide a year. the individualized workplace emergency response information to the person designated This requirement relies to provide such assistance. on the use of the Alternate Formats Policy. Review of Individualized Emergency The Municipality is in Response Plan: compliance with this When the employee moves to a different requirement location in the organization,when the employee's overall accommodation needs are reviewed,when the employer reviews its general emergency response policies. ComplianceLegislated Requirement Area of Action Plan or status Date Responsibility January 2014 Establishment of Accessibility Policies: CAO The Municipality documents its Develop, implement and maintain policies accessibility initiatives governing how the organization achieves or will yearly in its annual Multi- achieve accessibility through meeting its Year Accessibility Plan. requirements under the accessibility standards. Additionally, all Municipal policies are based on the Establishment of a Multi-Year Accessibility Plan Mission Statement: The Municipality of Bayham is dedicated to promoting, enhancing and creating a barrier-free environment for all persons, regardless of needs, to participate as fully as possible in all aspects of community life. The Municipality is in compliance with this requirement January 2014 Procuring or Acquiring Goods, Services or CAO The Municipal Facilities: Treasurer Procurement By-law and Accessible Incorporate accessibility criteria and features Procurement Guide into procurement practices so that goods, satisfy this requirement. services and facilities are more accessible to people with disabilities unless it is not The Municipality is in practicable to do so. compliance with this requirement 16 Compliance Legislated Requirement Area of Action Plan or Status Date Responsibility January 2014 Self-Service Kiosks: CAO The Municipality of Bayham does not All organizations that offer services or products currently utilize any self- through self-service kiosks shall take steps to service kiosks. make them accessible to people with disabilities so they can be used independently and securely. January 2015 Training: CAO Municipal Staff in consultation with the All organizations will train those individuals Elgin County Accessibility (employees or volunteers)who participate in Coordinator are currently developing the organization's policies, and all developing those who provide goods or services on behalf comprehensive training of the organization, about the requirements of to satisfy this the Integrated Accessibility Standards and the requirement that will be Ontario Human Rights Code as it relates to ready for spring 2015. people with disabilities. Compliance Legislated Requirement Area of Action Plan or Status Date Responsibility January 2015public Feedback Process: CAO This requirement relies on the use of the Provide or arrange for provision of accessible Alternate Formats Policy. formats and communication supports for persons with a disability upon request. The Municipality is in Notify the public of the availability of accessible compliance with this formats and communication supports for the requirement feedback process. January 2014 Internet Content and Websites: CAO The Municipality had a website accessibility New Internet websites and content to conform audit completed on the to the World Wide Web Consortium Web Municipal website in the Content Accessibility Guidelines(WCAG)2.0 spring or 2014 and will initially at level A. have all Internet websites &content conforming to World Wide Web Consortium Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)2.0 Level AA (exceptions success criteria 1.2.4& 1.2.5)by May 2015 Additionally, all Municipal documents are produced in accordance with the Alternate Formats Policy. 17 Compliance Legislated Requirement Area of Action Plan or Status Date Responsibility January 2015 Recruitment Process: CAO The Municipality is in compliance with this Notify employees and public about the requirement availability of accommodation. Selection&Assessment Process: Notify job applicants,when individually selected,that accommodations are available upon request. Documented Individual Accommodation Plans: develop a written process for the development of documented individual accommodation plans. Return to Work: Develop and document a return to work process for employees who have been absent due to a disability and require disability-related accommodations in order to return to work. Compliance Legislated Requirement Area of Action Plan or Status Date Responsibility January 2015 Accessible Formats and Communication: CAO The Alternate Formats Policy ensures that all Provide or arrange for provision of accessible corporate documents are formats and communication supports for produced in an persons with a disability upon request; in a accessible format. timely manner taking into account the person's accessibility needs; at a cost no more than The Municipality is in charged by other persons. compliance with this requirement January 2012 All internet websites&content to conform to CAO The Municipality will have World Wide Web Consortium Web Content a website accessibility Accessibility Guidelines(WCAG) audit completed on the 2.0 Level AA,exceptions success criteria 1.2.4 Municipal website by the & 1.2.5. spring 2015 and have all internet websites& content conform to World Wide Web Consortium Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)2.0 Level AA (exceptions success criteria 1.2.4& 1.2.5). Additionally, all Municipal documents are produced in accordance with the Alternate Formats Policy. 18 Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Legislation MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM PROJECTS TO DATE AND FUTURE INITIATIVES The Municipality of Bayham is dedicated to promoting, enhancing and creating, where possible, a barrier-free environment for all persons, regardless of needs, to participate as fully as possible in all aspects of community life. The following table depicts the Municipality's initiatives completed to date and a list of proposed future initiatives to enhance accessibility in the Municipality of Bayham in an effort to make the Municipality holistically accessible and inclusive. Year 2015-2020 Task Department Municipal Facilities Accessibility Audit (2014-2015) CAO Barrier-Free Municipal Elections (2006-2010) Clerk's Department Continual monitoring of Municipal sidewalks including mud-jacking Public Works (leveling sidewalks to alleviate water ponding and trip hazards), cutting (eliminating trip hazards) and replacement Utilization of the Elgin County Coordinator to ensure holistic CAO accessibility and Inclusion 19 Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Legislation MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM PROJECTS TO DATE AND FUTURE INITIATIVES The Municipality of Bayham is dedicated to promoting, enhancing and creating, where possible, a barrier-free environment for all persons, regardless of needs, to participate as fully as possible in all aspects of community life. 2016 Municipality Annual Accessibility Report Status Update The purpose of this Status Report is to make the public aware of the Municipality's progress with accessibility implementation and to prevent and remove barriers and meet requirements under the AODA. Task Department Completed and filed Accessibility Compliance Report with the Accessibility Directorate of CAO Ontario under the Ministry of Economic Development Trade and Employment Services The Municipality focuses on removing barriers which may exist in buildings and facilities, Council/Staff while ensuring that new buildings, leases, and renovations do not create any new barriers. This includes the construction of the renovated Straffordville Community Centre, Municipal Office and Council Chambers Training for all staff on the Integrated Accessibility Standard and updated Corporate All Staff Accessibility Policy (2014) - Ongoing training for new staff Training for all staff on the Ontario Human Rights Code as it pertains to people with All Staff disabilities (2014) - Ongoing training for new staff- On-going training for staff on the Customer Service Standard Update Corporate Accessibility Policy (December 2016) Council Submitted a funding application under the Enabling Accessibility Fund in order to provide Council an accessible viewing platform at the Port Burwell Municipal East Beach Participate in review and consultation of Provincial Accessibility Legislation and CAO Regulations YHA �,(r y Pr Opp . o. '4 . Orly Is�C Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham Policy Name: Municipality of Bayham Accessibility Policy Section 1 - Policy Statement The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham is committed to providing quality goods, services and facilities that are accessible and inclusive toall persons that it serves. In order to meet the needs of persons with disabilities the Municipality of Bayham will: i. Ensure policies, practices and procedures address dignity, independence, integration, inclusiveness and provide for equal opportunity for persons with disabilities; ii. Allow persons with disabilities to use their own personal assistive devices to obtain, use or benefit from the services offered by the Municipality; iii. Strive to meet the needs of persons with disabilities in a timely manner, at a cost no greater than that for persons without disabilities; iv. Accommodate the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities to ensure they can obtain, use or benefit from the Municipality's goods, services, programs and facilities. The Municipality will promote accessibility by ensuring that compliance is met for all regulations made under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). In order to ensure that timelines are met and the Municipality continues to strive to be holistically accessible, the Municipality will establish, implement and maintain a multi-year accessibility plan. The Municipality of Bayham Multi-Year Accessibility Plan will outline the Municipality's strategy to prevent and remove barriers to persons with disabilities. The Municipality of Bayham Multi-year Accessibility Plan will be reviewed at least once every five years. Further, an annual status report will be prepared and presented to Council. Section 2 - Background The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) is a provincial statute that allows the government to develop and enforce specific standards for accessibility. The standards, or regulations, are intended to achieve accessibility for persons with disabilities with respect to customer service, transportation, built environment, information/communication and employment. Section 3 -Application This policy shall apply to every person who deals with members of the public or other third parties on behalf of the Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham, whether the person does so as an employee, agent, volunteer or otherwise. This policy applies to all services offered at facilities owned, leased or operated by the Municipality, as well as public events hosted by the Municipality, regardless of where the event takes place. This policy also applies to all external groups and agencies that use facilities owned leased or operated by the Municipality to hold a public event. Section 4 - Definitions i. 'Assistive Device'shall mean a device used to assist persons with disabilities in carrying out activities or accessing the services of persons or organizations; ii. 'Barrier' shall mean an obstacle that prevents a person with a disability from fully participating in all aspects of society because of his or her disability, including a physical barrier, an architectural barrier, an information or communications barrier, an attitudinal barrier, a technological barrier, a policy or a practice; iii. 'Disability' shall be as defined in the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 and include any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical co- ordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device; a condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability; a learning disability, or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language; a mental disorder: or an injury or disability for which benefits were claimed under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997. iv. 'Discrimination' shall mean unequal treatment based upon any of the prohibited grounds as outlined in the Human Rights Code: Race, Ancestry, Creed, Place of Origin, Colour, Sex (including pregnancy), Ethnic Origin, Citizenship, Sexual Orientation, Age, Record of Offences, Marital Status, Same-sex Partnership Status, Family Status or Disability. v. 'Municipality' shall mean the Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham. vi. 'Nurse' shall mean a Registered Nurse, Registered Practical Nurse or Nurse Practitioner who is a registered member in good standing with the College of Nurses in Ontario. vii. 'Physician' shall mean a physician who is a registered member in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. viii. 'Service Animal'shall include: a. A 'guide dog', as defined in Section 1 of the Blind Persons Rights'Act; or b. an animal used by a person with a disability if it is readily apparent that the animal is used by the person for reasons relating to his or her disability; or the person provides a letter from one of the following regulated health professionals confirming that the person requires the animal for reasons relating to the disability: • A member of the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario. • A member of the College of Chiropractors of Ontario. • A member of the College of Nurses of Ontario. • A member of the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario. • A member of the College of Optometrists of Ontario. • A member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. • A member of the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. • A member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario. • A member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Mental Health Therapists of Ontario c. As defined within legislation ix. `Support Person'shall mean a person who accompanies a person with a disability in order to assist them with communication, mobility, personal care, or medical needs or with access to goods or services. Section 5—Accessible Procurement The Municipality will use reasonable efforts to ensure accessibility criteria and features are considered when purchasing goods, service and facilities. When it is not practicable to incorporate accessibility criteria, the Municipality will provide an explanation upon request. In general, procurement will be consistent with the following principles: i. The Municipality's goods and services are provided in a manner that respects the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities; ii. The provision of the Municipality's goods and services to persons with disabilities is integrated with those provided to persons who do not have disabilities unless an alternative measure is necessary to enable a person with a disability to obtain, use or benefit from the Municipality's goods and services and; iii. Persons with disabilities are given an opportunity equal to that of persons without disabilities to obtain, use or benefit from the Municipality's goods and services. Section 6 -Alternate Formats—Communication Supports—Web Content The Municipality will provide alternate formats of information and communication that is produced or in direct control of the Municipality. Alternate formats will be provided upon request, in a timely manner and at a cost that is no more than the cost charged for the original format. When it is not practicable to provide an alternate format, the Municipality will provide an explanation and a summary of the document in an accessible format. The Municipality will provide communication supports to members of the public upon request. If the Municipality is unable to obtain the requested communication support, the Municipality will work with the individual to determine an appropriate alternative method of communication. In accordance with applicable legislation, the Municipality will ensure that websites and web content are created in a manner keeping with the expectations of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG). Purchased Documents or Videos: The Department purchasing a document or video that will be available on the Municipality's website shall ensure that the document or video is created in a manner that ensures compliance with WCAG 2.0. Third-Party Documents: The Municipality will put forward efforts to ensure that documents provided to the Municipality on behalf of a third party, that will be posted on the Municipality's website, and not in direct control of the Municipality through a contractual relationship, will be remediated in accordance with WCAG 2.0, unless it is not practicable to do so. In the event that it is not practicable to remediate a third party document, for which the Municipality is not in direct control through a contractual relationship, a member of the public may contact the Municipality to arrange for the information to be provided in an accessible format, upon request. The Municipality will consult with the requesting individual to determine suitability of format. Section 7 - Feedback Process The ultimate goal of the Municipality is to meet and surpass public expectations pertaining to public service. Comments on Municipal services regarding how well those expectations are being met are welcome and appreciated as they may identify areas that require change and encourage service improvements. Feedback regarding the way the Municipality provides goods and services can be made by completion of a Feedback Form available at all on the Municipal website. Section 8 - Service Disruptions The Municipality will make reasonable effort to provide notice of a disruption to the public, including information about the reason for the disruption, its anticipated duration, and a description of alternative facilities or services, if any, that may be available. The Municipality will make reasonable effort to provide prior notice of planned disruption whenever possible, recognizing that in some circumstances such as in the situation of unplanned temporary disruption, advance notice will not be possible. In such cases, the Municipality will provide notice as soon as practicable. The notice will be placed on the Municipal website and by any other method that is reasonable and applicable under the circumstances. Section 9 - Support Persons The Municipality is committed to welcoming persons with disabilities who are accompanied by a support person. Any person with a disability who is accompanied by a support person will be allowed to enter the Municipality's premises with their support person. At no time will a person with a disability who is accompanied by a support person be prevented from having access to their support person while on Municipal premises. The Municipality may require a person with a disability to be accompanied by a support person while on Municipal premises in situations where it is necessary to protect the health and safety of the person with the disability or the health and safety of others on the premises. In certain situations, the Municipality, at its discretion, may require a support person to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to an exchange of information with the person with a disability. A support person, when assisting a person with a disability to obtain, use or benefit from the Municipality's goods or services, shall not be charged for admission to any facility owned and operated by the Municipality. Section 10 - Service Animals The Municipality is committed to welcoming persons with disabilities who are accompanied by a service animal on those parts of Municipal premises that are open to the public and other third parties provided the animal is not otherwise excluded by law. If a service animal is excluded by law, the Municipality will ensure that alternate means are available to enable the person with a disability to obtain, use or benefit from the Municipality's goods and services. If it is not readily apparent that the animal is a service animal, the Municipality may ask the person with the disability for a letter from a physician or nurse confirming that the person requires the animal for reasons relating to the disability. The Municipality may also, or instead, ask for a valid identification card signed by the Attorney General of Canada or a certificate of training from a recognized guide dog or service animal training school. If proper documentation is not produced, the person with the disability may be asked to remove the animal from the premises. It is the responsibility of the person with the disability to ensure that their service animal is kept in control at all times. This will include controlling the behavior of the animal (e.g. barking or growling), cleaning up after the animal (e.g. defecation) and being responsible for any damage the animal may cause to Municipal property. Section 11 - Use of Assistive Devices A person with a disability may provide their own assistive device for the purpose of obtaining, using and benefiting from the Municipality's goods and services. Exceptions may occur in situations where the Municipality has determined the assistive device may pose a risk to the health and safety of a person with a disability or the health and safety of others on the premises. In these situations, the Municipality may offer a person with a disability other reasonable measures to assist him or her in obtaining, using and benefiting from the Municipality's goods and services where the Municipality has such other methods available. It should be noted that it is the responsibility of the person with a disability to ensure that his or her assistive device is operated in a safe and controlled manner at all times. Section 12 - Built Environment Standards The Accessibility Standards for the Built Environment focus on removing barriers in two areas and the Municipality is committed to the same: Ontario Building Code Ontario's Building Code was amended to include enhancements to accessibility in buildings. As of January 1, 2015, new construction and renovations will be subject to updated accessibility requirements. Accessibility Standard for the Design of Public Spaces The standard for the design of public spaces only applies to new construction and major changes to existing features. The standard covers: i. Recreational trails/beach access routes ii. Outdoor public eating areas like rest stops or picnic areas iii. Outdoor play spaces, like playgrounds in provincial parks and local communities iv. Outdoor paths of travel, like sidewalks, ramps, stairs, curb ramps and rest areas v. Service-related elements like service counters, fixed queuing lines and waiting areas vi. Maintenance of accessible public spaces. Section 13 -Accommodation The Municipality of Bayham is an equal opportunity employer. The Municipality's commitment to a holistically inclusive work environment and universal accommodation extends to all employment activities: recruitment and selection, orientation, working conditions, promotion, training, performance management, career development and workforce transition. It also includes the purchase and management of information technology and communication systems, development and management of information services, decisions relating to real property, purchases of internal fittings, and decisions related to conferences, seminars and training. The Municipality of Bayham is an Equal Opportunity Employer If you require accommodation at any time throughout the employment activities process, please contact us at: 519-866-5521, accessibilitv[a�bavham.on.ca or by visiting www.bayham.on.ca and we will make every effort to provide appropriate assistance pursuant to the Municipality of Bayham Employment Activities Accommodation Policy. Section 14 -Training Training will be provided to staff members, volunteers and third parties in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). The Municipality will retain records of training, including the date on which training is provided, the number of individuals to whom it is provided and the nature of the training that is provided. The names of the individuals trained will be recorded for municipal administrative purposes and all personal information collected will be managed in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The training will include: • An overview of the Ontario Human Rights Code • A review of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 • A review of the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (0. Reg 191/11) • Specific review of Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation requirements, based on the duties associated with the employee. • How to interact and communicate with persons with various types of disabilities • How to interact with persons with disabilities who use an assistive device or require the assistance of a guide dog or other service animal or the assistance of a support person. • How to use equipment or devices available on the Municipality's premises or otherwise provided by the Municipality that may help with the provision of goods, services or facilities to a person with a disability. • What to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty accessing the Municipality's goods, services or facilities. The training will be appropriate to the duties of the employees, volunteers and other people. Employees will be trained as soon as practicable. Section 15 - Responsibilities Municipal Council and staff are responsible for adhering to the parameters of this policy. Staff will consult with the County of Elgin Accessibility Coordinator on the implementation of this policy. Section 16 - Modifications to this Policy The Municipality is committed to developing accessibility policies that respects and promotes the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities. Therefore, no changes will be made to this policy before considering the impact on persons with disabilities. All amendments or modifications to this policy shall be approved by Council. Section 17 -Questions about this Policy This policy exists to achieve service excellence to persons with disabilities. If questions exist about the policy, or if the purpose of a policy is not understood, an explanation will be provided by the Administration of the Municipality of Bayham.