I was pleased to join with Councilwoman Christine Johnson to propose, and on Monday pass, legislation that enhances the representation of those with disabilities and for senior residents here in Laurel.

Last term, while I was Chair of the Citizens Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities, I worked to re-boot the Committee and add to the committed core members. In the process, I learned that we had many experienced and dedicated individuals in Laurel that work with and even themselves experience a disability, but were unable to contribute to the work of the Committee because their residence was outside the City limits. So, in consultation with Committee members, I sought to expand our membership requirements to provide first order of preference to City residents, but that should the Committee still fall short, it would have the ability to avail of the expertise of those who have deep ties in the City, like business ownership or employment within the City limits. This would enable the goal of the Committee reaching its required quorum so that it could continue its work in advising the City Council and Mayor in the needs, programs, and supports for persons with disabilities.

Around the time I was working on the modifications, I was approached by Councilwoman Christine Johnson who has a deep commitment to Laurel’s senior residents and was exploring ways for the City to become more alert to their needs, to provide them a voice to City matters, and to act as a focal point pulling together helpful resources. After considering different options, and instead of standing up an altogether new Committee which would face common resource constraints, she proposed expanding the Committee to include senior residents. It was important to recognize that both persons with disabilities and senior residents have concerns unique to each, but that there were also areas of overlap and natural collaboration. I consulted with the existing Commitee members, and they agreed that it did indeed seem a good idea.

Text of the Resolution 1-2025 contains the specific provisions, including that 2 members be persons with disabilities (or relatives or caretakers), 2 members be persons over the age of 55 (or caretaker), 2 members of the general public, and 1 member from the City Council.

It was pleasure to collaborate with Councilwoman Johnson on this work, and I’m hopeful for its ability to further the City’s commitment to and service of persons with disabilities and our senior residents. And related – if you are, or someone you know is, interested to learn more about becoming a member of the Committee, please contact me and I’d be happy to share more information and help.