HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0335.009 1998-2000 JNSV as N9` V ,
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Stephen K. Yamashiro rr'~ t'
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Mayo.
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COMMITTEE ON PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
25 Aupuni Str«q Room 215 Hilo, Hawaii 96720.4252
(808) 961-8211 Fex (808) 961-6553
December 6, 1999
The Honorable Chairman James Y. Arakaki
and Members of the County Council
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Re: REAL TIME CAPTIONING FOR COUNTY OF HAWAtI COUNCIL MEETINGS
Dear Chairman Arakaki and Council Members:
The Mayor's Committee on People with Disabilities filed a request in June 1999 to the County
Council for implementation of Real Time Captioning during television coverage of council
meetings. It is our understanding that this committee hearing has been deferred several
times and no action has yet been taken on this matter.
Further delays can only result in a lawsuit. Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and
the Federal regulations mandate that the County of Hawaii (a public entity) must furnish an
individual with a disability equal access to the county's various services, programs, and/or
activities.
At our meeting held on November 5, 1999, having reviewed the Federal regulations, we re-
confirm our support of Bill 146/Res. 156-99. We recommend that this very important issue of
Real Time Captioning be included in the December 14, 1999 Finance Committee meeting so
that this problem can be resolved. It is time that our County practices, policies, and
procedures reflect the guarantees of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Thank you in advance for considering this request. Should you require further information,
please advise.
Sincerely, l>~') V
Betsy Palmer
Chair Gomm. No. 33 S. o0 9
I51e No. ~-O V
BP:jv PressMed F G
Ref. To:
cc: Mayor Stephen K. Yamashiro DEC 1 4 1999
Ref. Date