CINCINNATI – The City of Cincinnati has created a new position to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). One of the first orders of business was launching a website outlining resources for City employees and members of the public who want to offer feedback on accessibility issues or file ADA-related grievances.

Jon Lawniczak, the Chief Advocacy Officer for Aging and Accessibility (CAOAA), began work in April and reports to City Manager Harry Black. Upon his appointment, Mr. Lawniczak found that public notice regarding ADA was scattered throughout the City’s website. Working with the Communications Office and Law Department, the City consolidated the information on a new ADA website.

The City has also crafted a Grievance Procedure so any resident of Cincinnati who feels they've been discriminated against under ADA rules can file a complaint and have that complaint thoroughly investigated. That process is available online. ADA compliance for personnel issues and job applicants will continue to be handled by the Office of Human Resources.

Mr. Lawniczak continues his outreach efforts by working with the community as well as internally with the City's various departments and offices. Part of that process is working with department heads and their ADA coordinators to review their transition plans and to determine what additional steps are necessary to ensure the City is in full compliance.

Contact information for Mr. Lawniczak is available on the City's ADA page.