Commission on Disabilities

The Commission on Disabilities consists of seven members, all of whom shall be residents of the City, and one such member shall be a City employee in the Department of Municipal Inspections.

The Commission on Disabilities acts in an advisory and consulting capacity to the Mayor, City Council, City departments and other interested organizations, relative to any and all matters concerning physically and mentally handicapped individuals. Except as otherwise provided in the Charter or by ordinance, it shall have the powers, duties and responsibilities given to a Commission on Disabilities by MGL c. 40, § 8J.

Read the full Commission on Disabilities ordinance 

Meetings

  • 7 pm
  • The 3rd Thursday of the Month (With Exception of January and February)
  • City Hall
    191 Cabot Street
    3rd Floor
    Beverly, MA 01915

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

View Archived Agendas and Minutes

Members

Member
Kevin Gallant, Chair
November 1, 2024
Karen Bloodgood
November 1, 2022
David Gannon
November 1, 2024
Aaron Swiniuch
November 1, 2024
Wangari Fahari, ADA Coordinator


Mission & Accomplishments

The Beverly Commission on Disabilities is a vibrant group of individuals who are dedicated to increasing the quality of life for all individuals with disabilities. Over the last several years, the Commission has been involved with projects in the community. These projects include the following:

  • Purchased (with Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding) beach wheelchairs for use at Lynch Park and Dane Street Beaches
  • Purchased (with CPA funding) sand mats for access of chairs across sand at Lynch Park
  • Upgraded assistive listening devices for the Council Chamber
  • Made a financial donation to the North Beverly Playground
  • Purchased a TTY for the Library
  • Purchased assistive listening devices for the Council Chamber's, all elementary schools and Briscoe 
  • Middle School
  • Sponsored a Community Access Monitoring Program
  • Offered the Beverly Business Community technical assistance in order to make their business more accessible
  • Completed an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan
  • Requirements for Tables and Chairs in front of business
  • Streamlined the process of obtaining a handicapped parking (HP) space for home use and City Street