During conversations with neighbors during the past several days it has become evident that the board of directors makes either poor or few attempts to really listen to people in our neighborhood. Perhaps the most disheartening comments came from some elderly and handicapped residents that indicated requests for equal access to our functions and meetings have been ignored.
That’s right – these individuals live in our neighborhood, pay their taxes, pay their assessments and live life just like the rest of us. The only difference is that through age and disabilities they no longer have the mobility most of us enjoy. And they are denied the ability to participate in our neighborhood politics (annual meeting no exception) because the board does not provide them access to certain events – like our annual meeting where these same board members that seem not to listen run again and again for reelection.
Complaints that the Meadowcreek board chooses to holds meetings and other events in a clubhouse that does not provide handicapped access have been ignored. And taking a long look at the facility and the narrow stairwell that allows one to gain access to the second floor meeting room I can see their point.
We seem to have deliberately disenfranchised a segment of our population, making them a somewhat silent minority. What a sad commentary. Just another in a lengthy and growing list of complaints against the way things are done in Meadowcreek. It's time for a change.
That’s right – these individuals live in our neighborhood, pay their taxes, pay their assessments and live life just like the rest of us. The only difference is that through age and disabilities they no longer have the mobility most of us enjoy. And they are denied the ability to participate in our neighborhood politics (annual meeting no exception) because the board does not provide them access to certain events – like our annual meeting where these same board members that seem not to listen run again and again for reelection.
Complaints that the Meadowcreek board chooses to holds meetings and other events in a clubhouse that does not provide handicapped access have been ignored. And taking a long look at the facility and the narrow stairwell that allows one to gain access to the second floor meeting room I can see their point.
We seem to have deliberately disenfranchised a segment of our population, making them a somewhat silent minority. What a sad commentary. Just another in a lengthy and growing list of complaints against the way things are done in Meadowcreek. It's time for a change.
I wish that the building has not been upgraded with an elevator, but I know that ADA requirements became law in 1990. When any major renovations are planned, our club house must be updated with an elevator (probably 50k+). I believe that city hall has a rental fee. Maybe we should track down another free location. Do you think that a restaurant would let us meet there for the next meeting? Does a resident own a local restaurant that could hold 50-150? Does anyone here know someone?
ReplyDeleteThis is a very important issue. I also wanted to congratulate the 4 NEW board members of MC. Way to go all! Keep it democratic and open now.
ReplyDeleteGood luck!