Elk Valley Accessibility Committee (EVAC)
Elk Valley Accessibility Committee (EVAC)
The District has partnered with the District of Sparwood and City of Fernie to establish the Elk Valley Accessibility Committee (EVAC). The EVAC is a citizen-led committee that will assist our communities in developing accessibility plans and in identifying and removing physical and social barriers to interacting with our local governments. You can review the EVAC Terms of Reference here.
The District of Elkford has helped to develop an Accessibility Plan that will guide our organization and facilities toward being accessible for everyone. Guided by the Elk Valley Accessibility Committee, and in collaboration with the District of Sparwood and the City of Fernie, the Accessibility Plan outlines policy and practical directions for review and improvement of District facilities, communications and operations.
The Accessibility British Columbia Act came into effect in June 2021. The Act requires municipalities and other organizations to identify how the organization will identify, remove, and prevent barriers to those in your organization and those who interact with it. The Act requires municipalities to:
- Have an Accessibility Plan;
- Have an Accessibility Committee to advise on how to remove existing barriers and prevent future barriers; and,
- Have a feedback tool to receive feedback on their Accessibility Plan and how accessible the organization is generally.
Questions about accessibility or the Accessibility Plan? Want to provide feedback on accessibility in Elkford? Contact us at 250.865.4000 or accessibility@elkford.ca.
ELK VALLEY ACCESSIBILITY PLAN
Just in time for National AccessAbility Week, council for the District of Elkford has officially adopted the Elk Valley Accessibility Plan!
This plan was developed by the Elk Valley Accessibility Committee (EVAC)—a citizen-led group of volunteer residents and appointed municipal representatives from Elkford, Fernie and Sparwood. Working together, their lived experiences, shared insight and collaboration were instrumental in shaping a plan that reflects the needs and values of our region.
The Elk Valley Accessibility Plan outlines how we’ll identify, remove and prevent barriers across municipal facilities, services, communications and operations. From policy to infrastructure, it will help guide how our municipalities make decisions, ensuring accessibility and inclusion are always part of the plan.
Grounded in the Accessibility British Columbia Act, the Elk Valley Accessibility Plan marks a meaningful step toward building a more inclusive Elk Valley. The District of Elkford is proud to be part of this important work. It’s a significant step forward in promoting accessibility and inclusion in our community and across our region, and it’s a powerful example of what’s possible when communities come together to create space for everyone.
Thank you to all who helped make it happen!
Want to learn more or share your feedback about accessibility in Elkford? Contact us at 250.865.4000 or email accessibility@elkford.ca.
