The Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan recognizes that persons with disabilities should be provided with an equal opportunity to access goods and information in a manner consistent with the principles of independence, dignity, integration and equality as stated in the regulations of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabiities Act, 2005 (AODA) was passed in June 2005. Its purpose is to achieve accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities by June 1, 2025. The Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan strives to ensure its programs, services and facilities are barrier-free for our residents and visitors with disabilities in a manner that respects their dignity and independence. The Township continues to support the goal of an accessible Province by 2025 through implementation of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). The AODA has a broad application in both the public and private sectors. Under the AODA, accessibility standards will be developed in the following areas:
- Customer Service
- Transportation
- Information and Communication
- Built Environment, and
- Employment
The Township developed an Integrated Accessible Customer Service Standards (IASR) Policy. This includes the establishment of policies, practices and procedures. As well as training the Township's customer service representatives.
Accessibility Information & Resources
"Accessibility is not a privilege, it is a right."
Legislation
- Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA)
- Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA)
- Integrated Regulation
Accessiblity Training
Under the new AODA and ODA legislation, service providers and vendors are required to be in compliance by 2012. However, if a vendor or service provider is delivering a service on behalf of the Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan, they must be compliant by January 1, 2010.
Enhanced Employment Services for Vulnerable Persons
Ontario Works / Ontario Disability Support Program
The Ontario Works Department will be funding new or expanded programming under the Enhanced Employment Services for Vulnerable Persons commencing in January 2010. Sessions will be provided by various partnerships with Community Agencies.
These workshops/sessions are available to any Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Program clients.
Click on the following link for detailed program information:
Enhanced Employment Services for Vulnerable Persons
If you know of anyone who fits the criteria, please refer them to their Caseworker who will complete the necessary paperwork.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Brenda Lunn, Social Services Supervisor Team 5 at 705-748-8830 extension 3618.
Multi-Year Accessibility Plan
As one of the requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005 (AODA), the Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan prepares a Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. This Plan sets out the steps the Municipality will take:
- to work toward removing existing barriers for persons with disabilities;
- to plan for the prevention of new barriers, and
- to achieve compliance with the AODA regulations
2012-2016 OSM Multi-Year Accessibility Plan
Planning Accessible Events?
The Accessibility Directorate of Ontario has published a new booklet titled, "Planning Accessible Events: So Everyone Feels Welcome." It includes information on no-cost or low-cost actions that can help reduce barriers for people with disabilities and make events more inclusive!
Additional Event Resources
Guide to Conducting Accessible Meetings
Guide to Accessible Festivals & Outdoor Events
Request for Accessible Format
To request information in an accessible format, please contact the Township Clerk by email or telephone (705) 295-6852.
Feedback Form
We welcome feedback on our accessibility and ways that we can improve. Please fill out our customer feedback form or contact the Clerk if you would like to provide feedback.