The new Commission on Disabilities, which Mayor Eric Johnson initiated back in October, was approved by the City Council.
The commission, made up of 15 members, will advise and provide suggestions to the mayor, City Council, city manager, and department directors on “accommodating” its disabled residents.
“People who live with a disability face myriad challenges living in a big city — challenges that the rest of us can’t fully comprehend or appreciate,” Mayor Johnson said. “The Commission on Disabilities will help us build a more inclusive and equitable city. I am grateful for the advocacy of all of our disability rights groups who helped make this new commission possible, and I look forward to working with the commission to make Dallas a national leader in providing opportunities for all of our residents.”
The committee will handle any concerns about the needs of people with disabilities. Among their other responsibilities, they will create programs for employment opportunities, address accessibility, and improve the overall quality of life for disabled Dallas residents.
After serving two years, the initial commission members’ term will expire on June 14, 2023. The new nominees’ term will begin September 2023 and every succeeding odd-numbered year.
“I am privileged to help these important and often overlooked voices be heard in our city, and I am eager to see the important work they will do for so many,” said City Councilmember Jaynie Schultz, the chairwoman of the Workforce, Education, and Equity Committee. “Our mayor and council stand with everyone who needs support to become active participants in the work of the city.”
There will also be additional assistance from the technical resource panel, which is nominated by the city manager and approved by the City Council.
