Corporate Administration
Regional Accessibility
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is requesting proposals from qualified agencies to develop a comprehensive three-year Accessibility Plan for the RDCK. Please click on Bids & Tenders for more information.
The Accessible British Columbia Act, enacted in 2021, aims to improve accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities across the province. The Act establishes a legal framework to create, implement, and enforce accessibility standards across various areas, including the built environment, employment, transportation, and information technology. It also mandates the formation of an Accessibility Advisory Committee to guide local governments and organizations in developing accessibility plans, which must be reviewed every three years.
Organizations must adhere to principles such as inclusion, adaptability, diversity, collaboration, self-determination, and universal design when developing accessibility plans. To comply with the Act, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has created an Accessibility Framework, outlining the phases for developing a three-year accessibility plan and feedback mechanisms to enhance accessibility within the region.
Apply to be a member of the RAAC
Please click on the Regional Accessibility Advisory Committee Bylaw link at the top of the page for the full scope of the committee.
Applications are being accepted for the Regional Accessibility Advisory Committee (RAAC). A maximum of twelve members are needed to serve up to a two (2) year term.
The RAAC advises the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) and municipalities within the RDCK (as per Bylaw No. 2904) on identifying, preventing, and eliminating barriers related to accessibility to people with disabilities in regional or municipal programs, services, initiatives, and facilities. The RAAC plays a pivotal role in helping the RDCK and municipalities be accessible and promote public engagement in accordance with the BC Accessibility Act.
By joining the RAAC, you will have the opportunity to share your perspective and assist in building local communities that are accessible to everyone.
To apply click on the Accessibility Feedback & RAAC Application Form below.
Membership
The Committee endeavours to maintain the following membership criteria:
- One (1) RDCK Electoral Area Director;
- One (1) RDCK Municipal Director;
- A maximum of seven (7) and a minimum of five (5) persons with disabilities or individuals who support or represent organizations that support persons of disabilities;
- One (1) Indigenous community representative; and
- Two (2) community members-at-large.
Duties of the RAAC
In accordance with the BC Accessibility Act the RAAC shall:
(a) Identify accessibility and inclusion barriers that RDCK/Municipality staff and community members experience or may experience in the course of interacting with the RDCK/Municipality in the following areas:
(i) Employment;
(ii) Delivery of programs and services;
(iii) RDCK/Municipal Facilities;
(iv) Transportation; and
(v) Information and Communications.
(b) Advise the RDCK/Municipality on the preparation, implementation and effectiveness of its accessibility plans;
(c) Review and work with staff to update the RDCK/Municipality’s accessibility plan at least every three (3) years;
(d) Review and work with staff to development a mechanism for public feedback on accessibility.
Meeting Details
- The RAAC will meet with the RDCK a minimum of four (4) times per year.
- The RAAC will meet with the municipalities identified in Bylaw No. 2904 (See Schedule A) a minimum of two (2) times per year.