Commission on Disabilities

Description

The commission advises the Board of Supervisors on disability-related issues, advocates for greater accessibility and inclusion and highlights the contributions of people with disabilities in the county. Through outreach and partnerships, it raises awareness about barriers and works to ensure county programs and services meet the needs of residents with disabilities.

Service Focus

Disability rights, accessibility, inclusion, public awareness and advocacy for people with disabilities in San Mateo County.

Membership

• 21 commissioners representing the disabled community at large
• Appointed by the Board of Supervisors (interviews generally held once per year)
• Commissioners serve until their term ends or until a replacement is appointed; applications are held until openings occur
• Standing committees include: Accessible Transportation, ADA Compliance, Legislation/Advocacy & Outreach, Special Events, Youth & Family and the Executive Committee (which is composed of the CoD president, vice president, secretary and chairs of the committees)

Roles/Key Functions

• Advises the Board of Supervisors on disability-related policies
• Educates county agencies and the public on disability issues
• Coordinates community resources and advocates for systemic change
• Recognizes contributions and accomplishments of people with disabilities

Commission on Disabilities Meetings

General Meeting: Every 4th Thursday of the month, except for July & December

Executive Committee: Every 2nd Wednesday of the month, except for July & December

Legislation, Advocacy & Outreach Committee: Every 2nd Monday of the month, except for July & December

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Committee: Every 1st Thursday of the month, except for July & December

Special Events: Every 3rd Tuesday of the month, except for July & December (All committee work will be conducted in ad-hoc)

Youth & Family Committee: Every 1st Monday of the month, except for July & December

Accessible Transportation: Every 4th Monday of the month, except for July & December

* The Commission invites the public to all meetings
Please contact staff to verify times, dates and locations of meetings

President – FLORENCE WONG
Co-Vice President – Evan Milburn
Co-Vice President – Matthew Cadigan Hearn

Interested in becoming a commissioner? Please go to San Mateo County Boards and Commission

Contact

Shawne O’Connell
soconnell@smcgov.org