Commission on Disabilities
The Town of Wakefield voted to established the Wakefield Commission on Disabilities at Town Meeting on May 15, 1989. The overall mission of the Commission on Disabilities is to address the needs and concerns of our residents with disabilities and promote their full participation in the activities and services of Wakefield. As stated in M.G.L. c. 40, s.8J the Commission is to have at least 5 members and not more than 13 members with staggered 3-year terms and a majority of its members must have a disability, one member must have a family member who is disabled, and one member must be an elected or appointed Town official.
The Commission:
- Acts as an advocate for the disabled community
- Advises town officials to ensure compliance with federal, state, and town disability laws and regulations
- Raises awareness by providing information, assistance, and referrals
- Reviews and makes recommendations on Wakefield department and board policies and activities
- Creates a barrier-free town
- Promotes accessible public transportation
- Encourages accessible housing
- Works to develop equal job opportunities for the disabled
Contact the Commission at commissionondisabilities@wakefield.ma.us.
Commission Members
Kristen Bardol
| Commission Member, April 2024 |
Daniel L. Benjamin, Jr.
| Commission Member, April 2026 |
Lois Jarema Benjamin
| Commission Member, Treasurer, April 2026 |
Lorna J. Davidson-Connelly
| Chair, April 2025 |
Janice Mirabassi
| Commission Member, Clerk, April, 2024 |
Paul Paglierani
| Commission Member, April 2026 |
Marie Rej
| Chair, April 2024 |
Judith Tanner
| Commission Member, April 2025 |
Paula Thompson
| Commission Member, April 2025 |