HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-09-26 Public Comment - R. Burns - Public Comment Supporting the Creation of a Disability Liaison and ADA Coordinator for the City of BozemanFrom:Ricky Burns
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Cc:Emma Bode; Joey Morrison
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Public Comment Supporting the Creation of a Disability Liaison and ADA Coordinator for the City ofBozeman
Date:Tuesday, June 9, 2026 2:50:10 PM
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Public Comment Supporting the Creation of a Disability Liaison and ADA
Coordinator for the City of Bozeman
Mayor, Commissioners, and City Staff,
Thank you for the opportunity to speak today about an important investment in accessibility,
inclusion, and community engagement: the establishment of a Disability Liaison and ADACoordinator for the City of Bozeman.
As Bozeman continues to grow, so does the need to ensure that all residents and visitors canfully participate in community life. People with disabilities represent a significant and
valuable part of our community, and accessibility should not be viewed simply as a legalobligation—it should be embraced as a core component of good governance, community
planning, and public service.
Recent successes demonstrate what is possible when accessibility is intentionally prioritized.
The Lindley Park Trail Project is a prime example of how thoughtful planning andcollaboration can create outdoor recreational opportunities that are more accessible and
welcoming to individuals of all abilities. This project not only improved physical access butalso reinforced Bozeman's commitment to ensuring that public spaces can be enjoyed by
everyone.
Similarly, the Interactive Bozeman Downtown Accessible Parking Map will become an
invaluable resource for residents and visitors who rely on accessible parking. By identifyingand sharing the locations of accessible parking spaces throughout downtown, the city will
have improved navigation, increased awareness, and enhanced the overall accessibility of ourcommunity. This project illustrates how directly led initiatives can have a meaningful impact
on quality of life when accessibility is made a priority.
These successes did not happen by accident. They occurred because individuals recognized a
need, collaborated with stakeholders, and worked to find solutions. Imagine what could beaccomplished with dedicated staff whose responsibility is to focus on accessibility every day.
A Disability Liaison and ADA Coordinator would provide the city with a consistent point ofcontact for residents, businesses, community organizations, and visitors. These positions
would help identify barriers before they become problems, coordinate accessibilityimprovements across departments, facilitate community engagement, and ensure compliance
with ADA requirements. More importantly, they would help foster a culture of inclusionwhere accessibility considerations are integrated into projects from the beginning rather than
addressed after concerns arise.
These positions would also support city staff by providing expertise, guidance, training, and
resources. They could assist with reviewing city programs, facilities, transportation systems,parks, trails, events, and communications to identify opportunities for improvement. Through
proactive planning, the city could reduce future costs, minimize legal risk, and create moreequitable access to services and public spaces.
Bozeman has already shown that it can be a leader in accessibility. Establishing a DisabilityLiaison and ADA Coordinator is the logical next step in building upon that success. These
positions would not only benefit individuals with disabilities but would strengthen the entirecommunity by creating a city that is more welcoming, navigable, and inclusive for everyone.
I encourage the City Commission to support the creation of these positions and continueinvesting in accessibility as a fundamental part of Bozeman's future.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Ricky Burns II
Independent Living SpecialistADAC-ADA Accessibility Specialist
Email Rburns@abilitymt.org
Phone (800) 735-6457Office(406) 522-7300, ext. 220
Mobile (406) 324-8031
2015 Charlotte Street, #2
Bozeman, MT 59718