Because of a deadline set by the U.S. Department of Justice through a settlement agreement to bring the website into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City Council was finally convinced that it was right to authorize an expenditure of over $50,000 to enhance the website. Well, of course the city should be in compliance. No argument there. It’s the rush and the cost factor that is bothersome.

Facts learned by reviewing the agreement…

1. The city needs to come into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

2. The city was notified that it was being investigated on July 8, 2013.

3. The agreement was signed by the city attorney. There are two dates on the document: Jan. 12, 2015, and Feb. 3, 2015.

Questions…

1. Why is there a rush to meet a deadline if the city was aware of this back in 2013?

2. Is it proper for the city attorney to sign such an agreement?

3. The city’s Commission on Disabilities and the local Regional Access and Mobilization Project should be called upon to assist with making the needed adjustments. Were they consulted?

Certainly there is enough talent in DeKalb given the fact that we have a major university and dozens of talented people who could help with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards and later, a bit at a time, improve our website.

Something just isn’t right with the way this matter was handled … not at all right.