History

History of Commission on Disabilities

In November 2000, the Monterey County Board of Supervisors held hearings to determine if an advisory commission was needed to help their body provide better services for people with disabilities. It was determined that there was a need for such an advisory board and by June, 2001,the Monterey County Commission on Disabilities was approved by supervisors Armenta, Pennycook, Calcagno, Johnsen, and Potter. By-laws governing the commission were adopted.

In January, 2002, the Monterey County Disability Advisory Commission was seated. Commission membership was drawn as to the directives of Article III of the Commission by-laws: "The Commission shall be composed of a total number of representatives not to exceed 23 and each supervisor shall appoint a representative for his/her district. Such members shall serve during the term of office of the appointing supervisor or until replaced."

In addition to members appointed from supervisory districts, each city within Monterey County had the right to membership and appointment to the Commission.  Commissioners can also represent community based organizations located in Monterey County. The combined total of Commission members is not to exceed eight  representatives. City representatives serve a three-year   term or until they are replaced.

The commission is staffed from the County's Equal Opportunity Office and reports directly to the Monterey County Board of Supervisors.