Kawartha Lakes is committed to providing all documents in an accessible format, however we realize that not all posted documents will meet everyone's needs. If this information is required in an alternate accessible format, please contact Customer Service at 705-324-9411 (dial 0) or report the issue online and we will accommodate your requirements in a timely manner.
Accessibility
We recognize the importance of creating an inclusive community where all people have equal opportunity to live, visit, raise a family, work and retire. We also know that not every disability is visible and a truly inclusive community cares for all disabilities, including invisible ones.
Accessibility in Kawartha Lakes
Our Plans for Accessibility
With the advice of the Kawartha Lakes Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC), Council has approved an Accessibility Policy CP2018-006 and Municipal Accessibility Master Plan 2024-2029.
Accessibility in Action
Here are a few ways we are working towards building a more inclusive community:
Alternate Formats and Communication Supports
Assistive Audio Equipment for Council Meetings
We are pleased to offer assistive listening devices for use in Council Chambers. To sign out a device, please visit the Clerk's Office on the first floor of City Hall, just outside Council Chambers. Please provide identification including your name and address to sign out a device.
Website Accessibility
The City of Kawartha Lakes is committed to creating an accessible online environment for all visitors to its web site. Due to conditions beyond our control, there are some instances where we are unable to provide information in an accessible format (for example, our mapping information, some RSS feeds. etcetera). We will be monitoring these sections, and develop an accessible solution as technology improves.
If you have questions or comments about the accessibility of our website please e-mail the Accessibility Partner or call 705-324-9411 extension 2136. You can also report the issue online.
Feedback or Concerns Regarding Accessibility
We welcome your feedback on our facilities and services as we strive to meet your accessibility needs. Please complete our feedback form to let us know how we're doing and suggest ways we can improve.
Kawartha Lakes Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC)
The Kawartha Lakes Accessibility Advisory Committee (KLAAC) is a provincially mandated committee of Council. Each member is appointed by Council to provide advice on accessibility for people with disabilities and the accessibility standards enacted under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.
Accessibility Awareness Recognition Awards
Each year, Kawartha Lakes honours individuals, businesses, and groups who are breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive community. These awards celebrate the outstanding contributions that make our city more accessible for everyone. Learn more about this year's awards and see past winners who continue to inspire change across our community.
Accessible Transportation
There are many accessible transportation options in Kawartha Lakes.
Accessible Recreation
Visit the accessible recreation section of our website to learn how we make sure all residents have the opportunity to participate in our recreation programs.
Accessible Resources
Accessibility Design Standards
- A Practical Handbook on Accessible Graphic Design
- Canadian Hearing Society
- Centre for Excellence in Universal Design IT Procurement toolkit:
- Centre for Universal Design
- Clearing Our Path - Creating Accessible Environments for Persons with Vision Loss
- CMHC - Accessible and Adaptable Homes
- Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes
- CNIB
In June 2005, the Ontario Government passed the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) setting the goal of a fully Accessible Ontario by 2025.
Ontario has set standards in the five areas of customer service, employment, information and communications, public transportation and public spaces (built environment).
If you have questions about the AODA or accessibility laws and standards, please visit the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Contact Centre website or call 1-866-515-2025.
Accessibility Standards for Customer Service
The Accessibility Standards for Customer Service came into effect on January 1, 2008, making them the first to become law under the AODA. This regulation required all municipalities to be in compliance by January 1, 2010. Customer Service is one of four other standards as part of the Integrated Accessibility Standards (Ontario Regulation 191/11).
Integrated Accessibility Standards
The Integrated Accessibility Standards came into effect on July 1, 2011. This law applies to all organizations - public, private and non-profit sectors. Each area of the five areas of the regulation is phased- in through time for each sector. The Accessibility Directorate has created a Guide to Ontario's Accessibility Regulations to assist organizations with planning.
All of the City of Kawartha Lakes Employees received training on providing accessible customer service in 2009 and training provided on the requirements of the Integrated Accessibility Regulation in 2015. Training continues as part of the City New Employee Orientation program administered through out Human Resources Division.
Training modules and resources are available from AccessForward.
Accessibility Compliance Reporting
Businesses, non-profit organizations and public sector organizations, such as municipalities, must file an accessibility compliance report with the Government of Ontario to confirm the organization has met the applicable requirements under the AODA.
City of Kawartha Lakes Accessibility Compliance Reports:
- 2010 Accessible Customer Service Report
- 2013 Accessibility Compliance Report
- 2015 Accessibility Compliance Report
- 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report
Contact Us
Kawartha Lakes
P.O. Box 9000, 26 Francis Street
Lindsay, ON, K9V 5R8
Telephone: 705-324-9411
Toll free at 1-888-822-2225
After-hours emergencies: 1-877-885-7337
