​​​​​​​Background and Legislation

The Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) and Accessibility for Ontarians with Diabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) were passed by Ontario Legislature with the goal of creating Standards to improve accessibility across the Province with a goal to have a fully accessible Ontario by 2025. 

Approximately 20% of people in Ontario have some type of disability.  In the Township of King, that translates to an estimated 3,100 residents that have some type of disability. 

The Township of King is committed to providing quality goods and services which are accessible to all persons we serve.  We have taken many initiatives to foster an inclusive commnity by indentifying and removing barriers to ensure that our goods and services are provided in a way that respects the dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity for all people. 

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, (AODA) became law in 2005. It sets out accessibility requirements that an organization must meet in the are​​as of customer service, information and communications, employment, transportation and the design of public spaces. These are called 'Standards'. The Information and Communications, Employment, Transportation and the Design of Public Spaces Standards were all combined under the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR).

​In December 2012, the IASR was amended to include accessibility standards for the built environment in relation to the Design of Public Spaces. This Standard applies to new construction and major changes to existing open space features. The Township has already begun to include this Standard in all works taking place in the Township and in the Procurement Policy. Work is being done now in order to ensure that parks, play spaces and public areas are made accessible for residents and visitors in​ advance of the 2016 deadline.

On January 1, 2015, the Ontario Building C​​ode was amended to include the Accessible Built Environment Standards to enhance accessibility in newly constructed buildings and existing buildings that are to be extensively renovated.

The amendments to the Ontario Building Code work together with the Design of Public Spaces Standards to finalize the accessibility standards for the Built Environment. Township employees working in the affected departments have been made aware of the new legislation and have begun implementing them. The Engineering, Public Works and Building Department and Planning staff are ensuring when permits are issued that newly constructed or extensivel​y renovated buildings meet the requirements of the newly amended Ontario Building Code as of January 1, 2015. 

 Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC)

The Township of King Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) was established in 2002 under the Provincial Legislation Ontarians with Disabilities Act (ODA). In 2005, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) was passed. The AAC continues its original mandate of advising Council on identifying, removing and preventing barriers to accessibility, and on the preparation of an annual Accessibility Plan. The AAC also advises on implementation of the standards that are being develop​ed under the new legislation. In addition to supporting Council, the AAC provides information and advice to individuals, organizations and the development industry on making homes, events and businesses accessible for all. All members of the committee are volunteers and are appointed for the term of Council.

• AAC 2014 - 2018 Member List

• AAC 2018 Schedule of Meetings​

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Accessible Formats and Communication Supports