Lake County Gazette

Lake County is seeking public feedback on its Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Comprehensive Transition Plan following a recent public meeting discussing the plan's progress.

According to Lake County, the ADA Comprehensive Transition Plan aims to enhance accessibility in county programs, services, facilities, and public rights-of-way, including sidewalks, crosswalks, and curb ramps. Residents are encouraged to review the presentation from the recent public meeting and provide input through a survey and an interactive map to help prioritize accessibility improvements. The county is also urging community members to share this opportunity with others, particularly those with lived experience of disability, to ensure broad participation.

The plan aligns with Title II of the ADA, which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in county programs, services, and activities. Lake County commits to providing aids and services—such as sign language interpreters, Braille materials, and alternative communication methods—so that people with speech, hearing, or vision impairments can participate equally. Reasonable policy modifications will also be made when needed to provide equal access.

In compliance with Title I of the ADA regarding employment practices, Lake County states there will be no discrimination in hiring or workplace activities. The county emphasizes it is not required to take actions that would fundamentally alter its programs or create an undue burden but assures that no additional costs will be imposed on individuals with disabilities for accommodations. Requests for assistance or modifications should be submitted to the ADA/504 Coordinator at least 48 hours before an event.

Lake County ensures equal access for individuals with disabilities by providing reasonable modifications, auxiliary aids, and effective communication support for its programs and services. The county prohibits disability-based discrimination and accommodates requests for accessible materials or services while maintaining a formal grievance process for complaints related to ADA compliance. Requests or concerns should be directed to RuthAnne Hall, the ADA/504 Coordinator overseeing compliance efforts.