Center for Independent Living, ADAPT file ADA lawsuit against City of Williamsport
Two regional advocacy organizations for differently abled people have filed a lawsuit in federal court Wednesday against the city for allegedly failing to provide access to City Hall for the disabled.
The Center for Independent Living and ADAPT, both out of North-Central Pennsylvania, as well as Tima Cummings, of Williamsport; Jay Harner, of Williamsport; Thomas Grieco, of Lock Haven; and Marie Prince, of Jersey Shore, allege that the city has actively worked to discriminate against disabled individuals.
“We have tried to work this out, but time is up,” said Misty Dion, CEO of the center for Independent Living, in a news release. “The city has intentionally discriminated against us and acted with deliberate indifference to our rights.”
The suit alleges that the city’s failures to provide accessibility are intentional, rather than a result of negligence or inaction, she said.
“The city knows what to do,” she added. “We are asking the court to order the city to obey the law, provide the long-promised front door ramp, make the inside of City Hall safe and award money for damages.”
The joint lawsuit was filed by attorneys David Ferleger, of Jenkintown, and Thomas H. Erle, of Philadelphia.
“The law is clear,” said Ferleger in a release. “The city agrees it is breaking the law, but the City’s approach has been to delay, dodge, deflect and defer. Now the City will have to deliver.”
About 3,362 people in the city have difficulties walking and about 17 percent identified themselves as disabled, according to estimates by the United States Census Bureau.
In the news release, Jay Harner, ADAPT community organizer, said the disabled should not be treated as second-class citizens.
“This is our city, our government. And we can’t get in the door,” he said. “It’s time to open the door and to make certain we are safe once inside.”
In particular, the lawsuit cites the lack of a wheelchair accessible ramp near the main entrance at City Hall, elevator issues and a lack of flashing lights on fire alarms to notify deaf individuals if there is a fire.
“Plaintiffs seek compensatory damages, injunctive and declaratory relief and an award of attorneys’ fees” according to the lawsuit. “The City of Williamsport has intentionally discriminated against plaintiffs and acted with deliberate indifference to their rights.”
Mayor Derek Slaughter directed questions to Norman Lubin, city solicitor, however Lubin did not respond before publication.
Adam Yoder, chair of the Ad Hoc City Hall Building committee and council member, as well as council members Liz Miele and Randall Allison were contacted but did not respond before publication.