Open Air barrier follow up with Botsford

TJ Botsford’s answer to my question about removing Open Air barriers was, “The town of Amherstburg relies on an excellent Accessibility Advisory Committee to look into these matters. It is my understanding that the Accessibility Advisory Committee ensures all events including Open Air are accessible for residents in Amherstburg. If you have concerns, I would suggest that you contact the Accessibility Advisory Committee.”

I reached out on Facebook and followed up with an email:

I asked on your Facebook post about Open Air: what specifically led to your opinion that there is an excellent accessibility committee? Is it your understanding or a fact that the committee ensures all events are accessible?

Botsford: “Residents who wish to serve on the Accessibility Advisory Committee must meet specific eligibility criteria, as required by mandate. It is, therefore, my understanding that those selected possess the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively advise the Town on accessibility barriers and related concerns. I trust that the individuals currently serving on this committee carefully consider the needs of residents and take the time to regularly review and reassess accessibility issues as circumstances and community needs change over time.”

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Michael Prue

Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions. But I’m continuing the tradition I started in 2014. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer.

the burg watch: According to the Windsor Star article about Malden Centre Park playground, you said accessible outdoor spaces are important for supporting local families and building community connections. Why did you support Open Air which creates barriers to outdoor spaces? As a mayoral candidate, what is your position on Open Air? May 20. Follow up May 23.

Prue: Open Air is a fully accessible venue, and every effort is made to make it barrier free. As a mayoral candidate I will review the current guidelines for Open Air and vote for appropriate modifications. The new Council – when constituted has this responsibility. May 25.

Answers and questions back from other candidates will be posted in future posts.
Candidates that haven’t answered to date:

Frank Cerasa
Lena Lazanja

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? TJ Botsford

As I’ve done since 2014, I’ve emailed questions to the candidates. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer. Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions.

May 19 question to TJ Botsford: Will you remove barriers during Open Air weekends that block people with disabilities from driving to the bank, local stores, bars, and generally driving through town?

May 22 followed up.

May 23 answer: The town of Amherstburg relies on an excellent Accessibility Advisory Committee to look into these matters. It is my understanding that the Accessibility Advisory Committee ensures all events including Open Air are accessible for residents in Amherstburg. If you have concerns, I would suggest that you contact the Accessibility Advisory Committee.

Answers and questions back from other candidates will be posted in future posts.

Candidates that haven’t answered to date:

  • Frank Cerasa
  • Lena Lazanja