Re: “” Feb. 13 news story.
Thank you for highlighting the epidemic of Americans with Disability Act lawsuits which is occurring in Colorado and across the nation. Individuals canvass an area to find minor violations and then file lawsuits in what appears as a money grab, rather than an opportunity for improvement in access for disabled individuals.
What I find disheartening is that the person seeking such enrichment is also a member of the Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, with encouragement from the executive director of that council. Doesn’t the council exist to address these community-identified issues for disabled persons including access as covered by ADA? Why didn’t the member of the council utilize the influence of the council to effect change through education and notification?
It disparages the good work of the Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council and is an embarrassment to the governor, who appoints council members. Both Mellisa Umphenour and executive director Marcia Tewell should be removed from their appointed positions.
Mike Smith, Broomfield
Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council executive director Marcia Tewell is quoted as saying that “lawsuits sometimes are the only way to get things done. The sad part is sometimes you have to hit people where you get their attention.”
Yes, business venues need to be compliant with the ADA, but even the act provides for proper notice to non-compliance with a time frame to correct. Failure to comply then results in penalties.
It appears there was no notice ever given, only a lawsuit filed by a gubernatorial appointee to the council. If the CDDC’s intent is quality of life, then notice with time to cure seems reasonable. The penalty brings attention.
CDDC positions are appointed and lawsuits appear to be the only action taken. Turning a cheek by the director and governor suggests state sanctioning of these ethically questionable, albeit legal, lawsuits. Colorado, a business-friendly state?
B. Richard Smith, Lakewood
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