Disabilities Commission

Purpose


The Athens City Commission on Disabilities is a committee of city government whose commitment is to provide a means for the concerns of people with disabilities to be heard; to advocate for public policy change; to provide expertise to the community on disabilities; and to tell the community about the strengths and limitations of people with disabilities, as well as how the community can help them improve their quality of life, thereby ensuring equality of opportunity and full participation in community life for everyone.


Membership

The Commission consists of a minimum of 11 members appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by Athens City Council, one City Council Representative, and the Mayor or his designee. Term length is three years.


 Member Term Ending
Bouvier, Dianne (Vice Chair)12/31/25
Brumfeld, Joe12/31/24
Burleigh, Debra12/31/25
Dikis, Rose12/31/24
Hughes, Allyson (Secretary)12/31/23
Korpi, Annah Abetti12/31/25
Lewis, Carolyn (Treasurer)12/31/25
McCarey, Micah (City Council Representative) N/A
McNelly, David R. (Chair)12/31/25
Rogers, Lacey (Mayor's Designee)N/A
Simpson, Lisa12/31/23
Smith, JW12/31/24
VACANCY


Powers & Duties


  • Make recommendations to the Athens City government on city services related to the needs of persons with disabilities
  • Act as liaison between members of the community and local government
  • Respond to questions from the public, local government, and community
  • Consult with Athens city officials, council, and citizens
  • Inform the city of grant opportunities
  • Submit activity reports and recommendations to the Athens City Council

Meetings

  • 3rd Wednesday of every month
  • 5:30 PM
  • Community Center

The public is welcome to attend.

To make a presentation or to add agenda items contact the Mayor's Office: (740) 592-3338

Email


Matching Fund Application for Businesses

The City of Athens has allocated funds for businesses within city limits to plan and execute renovations and/or modifications that make their establishments more accessible and compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. Funds are limited ($30,000 total); thus, there will be a committee within the Commission on Disabilities to read applications and administer funds to the most eligible projects. 

Click Here For The Matching Fund Grant Application


Designing the New Athena Award Matching Fund Application for Businesses

 Designed by Luke Hawk in 2021, the Athens Disabilities Commission selects one member from the community a year who goes above and beyond to make the lives of those with different disabilities and abilities lives much easier. Barbara Conover was the recipient of the 2021 Athena Award.

Watch the full interview with Luke Hawk and Dr. Carolyn Lewis by clicking the link below.

Designing the New Athena Award


WOUB Student Reporter Chloe Workman follows Athens City Commission on Disabilities Chairperson Davey McNelly as he navigates Athens in a wheelchair. Click the link below to view the story.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iN6ezvDBSgs