ADA Policy & Procedure
On July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) saying these words,“Let the shameful wall of exclusion finally come tumbling down.” One of the most important civil rights laws to be enacted since the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities.
What does the ADA mean for state and local governments in the delivery of their programs, services, and activities, as well as their employment practices? In the broadest sense, it requires that state and local governments be accessible to people with disabilities.
Accessibility is not just physical access, such as adding a ramp where steps exist. Accessibility is much more, and it requires looking at how programs, services, and activities are delivered. Are there policies or procedures that prevent someone with a disability from participating (such as a rule that says “no animals allowed,” which excludes blind people who use guide dogs)? Are there any eligibility requirements that tend to screen out people with disabilities (such as requiring people to show or have a driver’s license when driving is not required)?
The City of Rancho Mirage’s ADA Coordinator can assist anyone with disabilities who need help with City services, program, or accessibility issues. For further information please contact Charles Nesbit, ADA/504 Coordinator at adacoordinator@ranchomirageca.gov or call City Hall at (760) 324-4511, Ext. 523.
The links below offer information on the Americans with Disabilities Act Grievance Procedures and Grievance process.
- ADA Grievance Procedures: The purpose of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) procedures is to provide clear and concise instructions to any aggrieved person or persons who believe he or she or they have been discriminated against by the City of Rancho Mirage or any of its affiliated agencies on the basis of an ADA recognized disability in the provision of services, programs or activities.
- Grievance Complaint form: The Grievance Complaint Form is to ensure that the City promptly addresses any programs, concerns, complaints or conflicts related to Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) compliance.
Disability Information Services
The City of Rancho Mirage is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families through a range of thoughtful initiatives. In our commitment to inclusivity, we have implemented various measures to ensure accessibility and convenience for all community members.For those attending Council meetings, we provide hearing devices, ensuring that everyone can actively participate and engage in the democratic process. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to special programs held at both City Hall and our Library, where we offer signing services to accommodate those in need.
Recognizing the diverse needs of our community, City Hall features lowered counters to facilitate access for individuals using wheelchairs. Additionally, we have invested in accessible bathrooms and made various improvements across City facilities to enhance overall accessibility.
Our dedication to accessibility extends to the digital realm as well. RMTV, our broadcasting channel, provides "open captioning" during City Council meetings, ensuring that home viewers, including those with hearing impairments, can stay informed and engaged.
In our scenic Wolfson Park, located at DaVall and Frank Sinatra Drive, we have established a braille-marked trail to cater to the needs of visually-impaired and blind residents and visitors. This thoughtful addition enhances the park experience, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of nature.
At the Rancho Mirage Community Park, situated at 71-560 San Jacinto Drive, we have taken special care to design playground equipment tailored to the needs of disabled children. This inclusive approach ensures that every child can partake in the joy of play and recreation, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Key Contacts
Charles Nesbit
ADA/504 Coordinator
adacoordinator@ranchomirageca.gov
City Hall
(760) 324-4511, Ext. 523
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