Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023/06/28 WORKSHOP SESSION 1:30 PMBRAZOS COUNTY BRYAN, TEXAS NOTICE OF MEETING AND AGENDA WORKSHOP SESSION BRAZOS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT F111 -1-7D Z08 JUH 20 P i : 11 "Ii�aUUca 8PIN �MI,Ih BRAZOS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WILL MEET I N A WORKSHOP SESSION AS FOLLOWS: MEETING DATE: June 28, 2023 MEETING TIME: 1:30 PM MEETING PLACE: Brazos County Administration Building, 200 South Texas Avenue, Suite 106, Bryan, TX 77803 1. Call to Order 2. Presentation on Vote Center recommendations by the Vote Center Review Committee. 3. Public Comments and Discussion. 4. Adjourn The Brazos County Administration Building, 200 South Texas Avenue, Suite 106, Bryan, TX77803 is wheelchair accessible. Handicap parking spaces are available. Any request for sign interpretive services must be made two working days before the meting. To make arrangements, please call (979) 361-4102. The foregoing minutes of the Commissioners Court Workshop Session held June 28, 2023, have been examined and are approved in open Court this the 1 lth day of July 2023, in Bryan, Brazos County, Texas. Duane Peters County Judge Chuck Konderla Commissioner, Precinct 2 Attest: County Clerk Steve Aldrich Commissioner, Precinct 1 Nancy Berry Commissioner, Precinct 3 MINUTES J U N E 28, 2023 BRAZOS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT WORKSHOP SESSION Call to Order A workshop session of the Commissioners' Court of Brazos County, Texas was held in the Brazos County Commissioners Courtroom in the Administration Building, 200 South Texas Avenue, in Bryan, Brazos County, Texas, beginning at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 with the following members of the Court present: Duane Peters, County Judge, Presiding; Steve Aldrich, Commissioner of Precinct 1; Chuck Konderla, Commissioner of Precinct 2; Nancy Berry, Commissioner of Precinct 3; Wanda,J. Watson, Commissioner of Precinct 4; Karen McQueen, County Clerk. The attached sheets contain the names of the citizens and officials that were in attendance. 2. Presentation on Vote Center recommendations by the Vote Center Review Committee. Judge Peters called the meeting to order and then invited Elections Administrator Trudy Hancock to give her presentation. Ms. Hancock explained the process used by the Vote Center Committee to make recommendations on voting locations. It is the recommendation of the Committee to close New Zion Missionary Baptist Church and Texas A&M College of Medicine and to utilize Church of the Nazarene and Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church due to higher voter turnout. Ms. Hancock detailed the remediation needs for several locations following results of the ADA compliance survey. She then presented the complete list of recommendations for voting locations noting, that the Committee advises moving the College Station City Hall location back to the Memorial Student Center. Commissioner Konderla questioned whether a deadline had been given to the locations remediating ADA issues to which, Ms. Hancock responded that a majority of the issues have already been remediated but they have until the start of early voting. Commissioner Aldrich asked whether there would be enough workers to staff the polling locations. Ms. Hancock shared that she does not anticipate issues this November however, that could change for the 2024 presidential election. Commissioner Aldrich also questioned if the new legislature standardizing early voting hours will effect Brazos County. Ms. Hancock stated that it would only effect the smaller counties. Commissioner Watson expressed disappointment that certain centers did not respond to the Committee's request to continue using them as a voting location. She stated that she does agree with the Committee's recommendations and is pleased with Galilee Baptist Church making the upgrades to become ADA compliant. The Court thanked Ms. Hancock and the Committee for their efforts in providing the recommendations. 3. Public Comments and Discussion. Judge Peters called on the citizens signed up to speak in the following order: Mike Southerland stated that his major concern was the reinstatement of the Memorial Student Center (MSC). He stated that it will be wonderful forthe students to have that location. Mr. Southerland also questioned where the closest polling location will be for Kurten residents. Judge Peters answered that Arena Hall is closest. John Velasquez, Commander of the VFW, expressed concern for student Veterans that need a place on campus to vote. He thanked the Court for the consideration of reinstating the Memorial Student Center. Tina Hanna stated that changing voting locations makes it difficult for voters, noting the importance of having stable voting locations. She also thanked the Court for reinstating the MSC as a voting location. Thomas Cavaness thanked the Committee for their efforts and stated that he is pleased the MSC has been reinstated. Arnold LeUnes thanked the Court for doing the right thing in reinstating the MSC. He stated that he is supportive of anything that makes voting more accessible. Maggie DiSanza read a letter on behalf of the Texas Civil Rights Project. A copy is attached. Kennedy Fears read a letter on behalf of Common Cause Texas. A copy is attached. Natasha Sarem discussed low voter turnout during smaller elections and stated that more outreach is needed for bringing awareness to smaller elections and to recruit students as polling workers. Nicole Gallucci sated that she had two letters to read. She read a statement from the League of Women Voters for supporting the MSC. Ms. Gallucci was asked to provide the Court with a copy of both letters for the record but she chose to only submit a copy of one letter. A copy of that letter is attached. Kala Washington shared her experience on what can happen when polling locations are removed from college campuses. She asked that the Court be the example to other counties for providing an on -campus polling location. Brennan Cwatanaphol expressed his displeasure with the removal of the MSC as an early voting location last year. He stated that support to reinstate the MSC is far and wide. Elianor Vessali, Republican Party Chairman, shared her thoughts regarding the reaction to moving from the MSC. Ms. Vessali stated that having College Station City Hall as an early vote center in 2022 was not an act of voter suppression. She clarified that while she wants citizens and students to be civically engaged, it is evident that they are misinformed about the effort behind the scenes, that goes into determining polling locations. She thanked the Court and staff for their effort. Judge Peters then adjourned the meeting. 4. Adjourn Pg -�-of BRAZOS COUNTY COMMISSIONER'S COURT DAY Name (PLEASE PRINT) � -aw 3 IMMA 1 (,",\(r au^ e- OF ��ne , 20 a3 _AM�I tk)oruslnop v Organization (PLEASE PRINT) 2 6, 1S PgOIL of 3 BRAZOS COUNTY COMMISSIONER'S COURT DAY O Name (PLE SE PRINT) �lNl� �14'N�lT} Sae7 rn m� �hefivo,V t � tt i C 01 e c--7c-f I I u NV4+tr I �9 &4S�A OL 'S ciLve W - &en n e n 60-l', 4, t A v0CU AA)yff tor 20 I-S Organization (PLEASE PRINT) to 5 JUD&L-L ISABC T6((AS 021' 5 i `15 C r rx$vY. 4m J7le4eW2 Pg-3- of ; j BRAZOS COUNTY COMMISSIONER'S COURT zg` DAY OF �c� , 20 , Name (PLEASE PRINT) —aft I �sS lA �Ja �zS Organization (PLEASE PRINT) L tc CO, JU.o& r Ts Brazos County Precincts US Congressional. (10) Senate District (5) State Representatives (12&14) State Board of Education (10) County Commissioners/JP (1-4) Emergency Services District (1-4) 3 ISDs 2 Cities 1 Special Utility District 1 Municipal Management District 2 Municipal Utility Districts 109 Voting Precincts The Review Process • ADA Survey on current locations by Disability Rights Texas • Obvious problem areas (more than one vote center located in a voting precinct) • Avenues to remediate accessibility issues • Discussions with locations that have accessibility issues NUMBS R 1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 i3 14 15 16 j7 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 BRIMS COUNTY VOTLR CENTERS - CUI.i:RENT VOTE CENTER Millican Community Center College Station Utilities Mtg & Tng Facility Galilee Baptist Church Zion Church of Kurten Parkway Baptist Church. College Heights Assembly of God First Baptist Church - Bryan Beacon Baptist Church Bryan 'Ballroom Brazos County Elections Administration Memorial Student Center (MSC) TE `ai i �Cdi,.:a.�?I.aa-.,�,a' Lincoln Center. College Station City Hall College Station. ISD Adrnin Bldg Castle Heights Baptist Church St. Francis Episcopal Church A&M Church of Christ `Christ United Methodist Church. Arena Hall Brazos Center Wellborn Baptist Church Living Hope Baptist Church VOTING ADDRESS PCT 22284 Pierce Street, Millican 1603 Graham Rd, College Station 804 N Logan Street, Bryan 977 N FM 2038, Kurten 1501 Southwest Pkwy, College Station 4100 Old College Rd, Bryan 3100 Cambridge Dr, Bryan 2001 E Villa Maria Rd, Bryan 703 Palasota Drive, Bryan 300 E Wm J Bryan Pkwy, Suite 100, Bryan Texas A&M Campus, Room 2406, CS 1000 Eleanor, College Station. 1101 Texas Ave, College Station 1812 Welsh, College Station 4504 E Hwy 21, Bryan 1101 Rock Prairied Rd, College Station. 2475Earl Rudder Fawy, College Station 4201 State Hwy 6, College Station 2906 Tabor Rd, Bryan 3232 Briarcrest Dr, Bryan 14575 FM 2154, College Station 4170 State Hwy 6 South, College Station 39 4 48 34 11 12 106 14 18 20 e3Ef 33 75 55 �sR3 38 76 COMM PCT 1 1 4 2 3 2 3 2 4 EV/ED ED EV/ED ENT/ED ED ED ED ED ED ED EV/ED ED ED ED EV/ED ED D ED ED 40 3 ED 41 3 ED 45 2 EV/ED 88 2 E.D 65 1 ED 80 1 ED .x 1 Vote Center New Zion Missionary Baptist Church Church of the Nazarene Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church Texas A&M ColleF-e of Medicine Nov Mar Nov Nov Mar 2022 2022 2021 2020 2020 150 49 609 298 881 451 531 173 103 338 164 192 499 335 92 227 Turnout by Location ADA Survey Results • Most locations had minor defects such as signage, door knobs, van accessible handicap parking. • Galilee Baptist Church fixed all issues (Installed a new ramp, extended the landing area, expanded their parking lot to include van accessible parking) • Castle Heights Baptist Church will install a handle to make door compliant, use temporary fencing to remediate ramp, clean, up the parking lot • College Heights will trim hedges and address van accessible handicap parking • Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church will use rubber matting on sidewalk joints and install a handle to make door compliant • Most parking lot issues can be handled with cones • No response from Millican Community Center or Bryan Ballroom BRAZOS COUNTY VOTER CENTER RECOMMENDATIONS VOTING COMM NUIVIlBER VOTE CENTER ADDRESS PC1' 1'C'r EV/E.D 1 South Brazos County ESD #1 3030 NATingfall, Street, Mil.lican I I ED 2 College. Station Utilities mtg & Tag facility 1603 Graham Rd, College Station 39 1 EV/Eli 3 Galilee .Baptist Church 804 N Logan Street, Bryan 4 1 ENT/bID =1 Zion Church of liurten 977 N ,rM 2038, Iiur ten 48 2 ED 5 Parkway Baptist Church 1501 Southwest Pkwy, College Station 34 3 ED 6 College Heights Assembly of God 4100 Old. College Rd, Bryan 1.1 2 ED 7 First ]Baptist Church - Bryan 3100 Cambridge Dr, Bryan 12 3 ED 8 Beacon Baptist Church 2001: E Villa Maria Rd, Bryan 1.06 2 ED 9 Milani Elementary (Enter Mockingbird St) 1201 Ridgedale St, Bryan 1.4 4 ED 10 Brazos County Elections Administration 300 E Win J Bryan Pkwy, Suite 100, Bryan 18 1 EV/ED 11, Nlemorial Student Center (MSC) Texas A&M Campus, Room 2406, CS 20 3 EVIE:D 12 Lincoln Center 1,000 Eleanor, College Station 33 4 ED 13 College Station City Hall 1101 Texas Ave, College Station 75 3 ED 14 College Station ISD Admin Bldg 1812 Welsh, College Station 55 3 ED 1.5 Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church 1.228 W VillaMarialid, Bryan 36 2 ED 16 Castle Heights Baptist Church 4504 E Hwy 21., Bryan 38 4 ED 1.7 St, Francis Episcopal Church 1101 Rock P. rairied Rd, College Station 76 .1 Ell 1.8 A&M Church of Christ 2475 Earl Rudder Frwy, College. Station 40 3 ED 19 Arena llall 29Q6 Tabor Rd, Bryan 45 2 EVIED 20 Brazos Center 3232 Briarcrest. Dr, Bryan 88 2 ED 21 Wellborn Baptist Church 14575 FM 2.154, College Station 65 1 ED 22 Living Hope Baptist Church 41.70 State Hwy 6 South, College Station 80 1. ED 23 Church of the Nazarene 2122 E William d ]Bryan Pkwy, Bryan 17 4 ED 24 Justice of the Peace Pct 1 412 William D Fitch Pkwy, College Station 100 1, ED Early Voting MOVE College Station City Hall to MSC Election Day CLOSE New Zion Missionary Baptist Church CLOSE Texas ALCM College of Medicine CLOSE Christ United Church MOVE from Millican Community Center to South Brazos County ESD#1 MOVE from Bryan Ballroom to Milam Elementary ADD Justice of Peace Pct 1 Trudy Hancock, REO, CERA Elections Administrator that cocl �brazoscountytx.gov 979-361-5770 BRAZOS COUNTY VOTER CENTER RECOMMENDATIONS NUMBER VOTE CENTER ADDRESS VOTING PCT COMM PCT EV/ED 1 South Brazos County ESD #1 3030 Wingfall Street, Millican 1 1 ED 2 College Station Utilities Mtg & Tng Facility 1603 Graham Rd, College Station 39 1 EV/ED 3 Galilee Baptist Church 804 N Logan Street, Bryan 4 4 EV/ED 4 Zion Church of Kurten 977 N FM 2038, Kurten 48 2 ED 5 Parkway Baptist Church 1501 Southwest Pkwy, College Station 34 3 ED 6 College Heights Assembly of God 4100 Old College Rd, Bryan 11 2 ED 7 First Baptist Church - Bryan 3100 Cambridge Dr, Bryan 12 3 ED 8 Beacon Baptist Church 2001 E Villa Maria Rd, Bryan 106 2 ED 9 Milam Elementary (Enter from Mockingbird St) 1201 Ridgedale St, Bryan 14 4 ED 10 Brazos County Elections Administration 300 E Wm J Bryan Pkwy, Suite 100, Bryan 18 4 EV/ED 11 Memorial Student Center (MSC) Texas A&M Campus, Room 2406, CS 20 3 EV/ED 12 Lincoln Center 1000 Eleanor, College Station 33 4 ED 13 College Station City Hall 1101 Texas Ave, College Station 75 3 ED 14 College Station ISD Admin Bldg 1812 Welsh, College Station 55 3 ED 15 Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church 1228 W Villa Maria Rd, Bryan 36 2 ED 16 Castle Heights Baptist Church 4504 E Hwy 21, Bryan 38 4 ED 17 St. Francis Episcopal Church 1101 Rock Prairied Rd, College Station 76 1 ED 18 A&M Church of Christ 2475 Earl Rudder Frwy, College Station 40 3 ED 19 Arena Hall 2906 Tabor Rd, Bryan 45 2 EV/ED 20 Brazos Center 3232 Briarcrest Dr, Bryan 88 2 ED 21 Wellborn Baptist Church 14575 FM 2154, College Station 65 1 ED 22 Living Hope Baptist Church 4170 State Hwy 6 South, College Station 80 1 ED 23 Church of the Nazarene 2122 E William J Bryan Pkwy, Bryan 171 4 ED 24 IJustice of the Peace Pct 1 412 William D Fitch Pkwy, College Station 1001 1 ED CHANGES Moved to South Brazos County ESD#1 Moved to Ben Milam Elementary Bldg CLOSED New Zion Missionary Church CLOSED Texas A&M College of Medicine CLOSED Christ Church NEW Justice of the Peace Pct 1 From Millican Community Center From Bryan Ballroom Same Voting Pct as Church of Nazarene Same Voting Pct as Fellowship Freewill Not used since 2020 because of construction Commissioner 1 r 6 ED 1 EV Commissioner 2 6 ED 1 EV Commissioner 3 6 ED 1 EV Commissioner 4 6 ED 1 EV Vote Center Nov 2022 Mar 2022 Nov 2021 Nov 2020 Mar 2020 EV - Brazos Co Election Admin 7,812 2,044 346 13,588 825 EV -Arena Hall 5,787 1,900 265 11,206 268 EV - Galilee Baptist Church 2,206 595' 113 14,719 407 EV-College Station Utilities 13,026 3,975 2,267 20,012 1,203 EV - College Station City Hall 6,914 EV - MSC 621 305 6,280 1,497 Millican Comminuty Ctr 565 276 148 401 49 College Station Utilities 1,739 1,303 1,169 939 Galilee Baptist Church 552 286 123 403 427 Zion Church of Kurten 519 306 110 364 54 Parkway Baptist Church 957 360 308 697 468 College Heights Assembly of God 571 225 130 395 299 First Baptist Church - Bryan 1,338 683 320 643 332 Beacon Baptist Church 825 428 168 490 303 Bryan Ballroom 381 108 34 380 139 Brazos -Co-Elections Admin 1,009 651 _-_.._ _ 364 671 479 MSC 11359 607 425 1,109 GW Williams Tabernacle 84 59 Brushy VFD 131 New Zion Missionary Baptist 150 49. Texas A&M College of Medicine 531 173 92 227 Lincoln Center 390 119 95 358 292 College Station City Hall 1,070 332 209 452 434 College Station CSD Admin Bid 886 288 352 6291 446 Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church 881 451 192 499 335 Castle Heights Baptist Church 149 73 28 102 53 St Francis Episcopal Church 801 496 443 594 A&M Church of Christ 913 364 276 297 274 A&M Church of Christ - Refinery 177 Arena Hall 1,191 796 369 692 281 Christ United Methodist Church 609 369 Brazos Center 1,908 1,258 602 930 528 Wellborn Baptist Church 1,339 521 448 Wellborn Comm Ctr 976 402 Living Hope Baptist Church 1,395 662 547 449 234 Church of the Nazarene 609 2981 103 3381 164 D�san�i�tyKy�ts TEXAS April 28, 2023 Ms. Trudy Hancock Elections Administrator Brazos County 300 East Wm. J. Bryan Pkwy, Suite 100 Bryan, TX 77803 Dear Ms. Hancock, 2222 W. Braker Lane Austin, TX 78758 Ni IN OFFICE: 512,454.4816 TOLL-MEE: 800.315.3876 FAX: S 12-302-4936 Disability RightsTx.ORG Thank you for inviting me to conduct accessibility surveys of polling locations in Brazos County to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Help America Vote Act ("HAVA"). I appreciate the opportunity to assist you and your office in providing all citizens of Bastrop County the ability to fully participate in the voting process, Disability Rights Texas is the protection and advocacy agency for Texans With disabilities. Our agency receives federaf� funding under HAVA to ensure thatlexans with disabilities dmi-fully participate in the electoral process.. We strive to work collaboratively with county governnients and election officials, providing free training and assistance in understanding how to comply with HAVA and other laws that impact voters with disabilities. On March 6-9, 2023,1 conducted accessibility surveys of 26 polling sites in Brazos County. Per your oftice's request, during this time I surveyed all of the parking tots/exteriors of the buildings and not the interiors. There are many features of polling locations in Brazos County that are in compliance with ADA standards, however, this report outlines the accessibility problems and potential low-cost solutions, rather than describing every accessibility component of all polling locations. I am enclosing a copy of the accessibility checklist produced by the United States Department of Justice as a more complete reference that describes accessibility features. This is the same checklist I used to conduct the surveys and produce this report. Brazos County Elections Office 300 East Wlliam J. Bryan Pkwy, Bryan TX Protecting and Advocating the rights of Texans with disabilities — because all people have dignity and worth. Parking Issue #1 � guidelines. VA N ACCESSIBLE;,. Recomaiendatlon: ADA standards state that each parking lot should have at leastrone van -accessible parking space. The required "van accessible" designation is intended to be informative, not restrictive, in identifying those spaces that are better suited for van use. It is suggested to use the far -right accessible parking space (closest to Washington Street) as the van -accessible space. As a temporary solution, add a temporary "van -accessible" sign underneath the pictured parking sign. A penuanent sign should be added ASAP. — - Van -accessible parking (VAP) spaces, and die adjacent access aisle (AA), have one of two measurements to meet to qualifv them as van -accessible. VAP is 96" wide, AA is 96" wide; or VAP is 132" wide, AA is 60" wide. To meet minimal width guidelines, it is recommended to expand the access aisle 16" to the right (into parking space). This will now create a 96" width for the AA and a t 04" width for the VAP. Repaint boundary lines o f AA and VAP to reflect new widths. As a temporary solution, mark out new boundary lines with duct tape or traffic cones. Issue #2 There is a parking space with a pole but no sign. International symbol of access All accessible parking spaces need to be marked by an upright sign with the international symbol of access. If this parking space is an accessible parking space, add an accessible parking sign to the post. If this space is not used for accessible parking, can leave it as is, If this is an accessible parking space, please include appropriate signage and an adjacent access aisle that measures at least 6.0" wide. Issue #3 The middle access aisle is faded, leaving the space unclear as to where one cannot park. Page 2 of 49 Brazos Co. Recommendadon: The purpose of an access aisle is to provide space for the driver/passenger to maneuver in and out of the car with enough space to accommodate their disability. ADA standards states that access aisles should be marked as to discourage parking in that area. Paint boundary lines to reflect a 60" wide access aisle. Boundary lines may be temporarily marked with traffic cones or duct tape. Issue #4 The boundary lines to the second accessible parking space are faded. This can cause a lot of confusion to where Recommendadon: ADA standards states that parking spots shall be marked to define the width and access aisles should be marked as to discourage parking in that area. It is recommended to repaint boundary lines of parking space so that they reflect the minimal width requirements provided by ADA guidelines. As a temporary solution, layout boundary lines with traffic cones or duct tape. Issue #5 There is no accessible route from the accessible parking spaces to the sidewalk. guidelines. Page 3 of 49 Brazos Co. This does not meet ADA Recommendadon Accessible routes must connect parking spaces to accessible entrances. Where possible, it is preferable that the accessible route not pass behind parked vehicles (aside from the individual's own vehicle). The accessible route shall, to the maximum extend feasible, coincide with the route for the general public. The minimum width of the route shall be 36 inches. The curb in front of the parking spaces has a 31.8% slope and is 6" tall. These measurements do notmeet the compliance guidelines of slopes (no more than 8.3%) and level changes (not over '!z"). It is recommended to create an accessible route from the middle access aisle to the far -right access aisle at the front of VAP space that is 36" wide. Another accessible route should be created from the VAP access aisle to the sidewalk on Washington street that is also 36" wide. ?✓lark out boundary lines to deter parking in that area. Issue #6 Reconimendadon: For easy identification, consider repainting sign for more clear/distinct wording. As a temporary solution, place paper/poster board over existingsign. If voters identify curbside voting with "absentee" label on sign, can keep wording. If voters do not identify curbside voting with this sign, consider rewording sign to "Reserved for Curbside Voting Sidewalk Issue #1 Ramp closest to accessible parking has a I" rise in surface. This does not meet ADA guidelines. Page 4 of 49 Brazos Co. Surface level changes over % inch may cause people to trip or difficulty in getting over the area in a mobility assistance device. Fill in gap between ramp/sidewalk and higher surface with appropriate substance. Filling in this gap could decrease the ramp slope and make the surface area more accessible. Galilee Mission Baptist 804 N. Logan St, Bnlan TX Parking Issue #1-2 adjacent access aisle. This does not meet ADA guidelines. Location of new VAP sign ADA standards state that each parking lot should have at least one van -accessible parking space. The required "van accessible" designation is intended to be informative, not restrictive, in identifying those spaces that are better suited for van use. Accessible parking spaces should have an adjacent access aisle and that access aisles shall be permitted to be placed on either side of the parking space. The purpose of an access aisle is to provide space for the driver/passenger to maneuver in and out of the car with enough space to accommodate their disability. Convert the existing accessible parking space into an access aisle. Temporarily mark off boundary lines with traffic cones or duct tape to discourage parking in this area. Cover the existing accessible parking sign with a piece of paper/posterboard/paper bag. The parking space to @ae right of new access aisle will now serve as the van -accessible parking space (meets width requirements=104"). Place a temporary VAP sign until a permanent one can be installed. The bottom of the permanent sign must be 60" from the ground. Issue #2 There is no curb ramp/accessible route connecting the parking lot to sidewalk. Wage 5 of 49 Brazos Co. Accessible routes must connect parking spaces to accessible entrances. The accessible route shall, to the maximum extend feasible, coincide with the route for the general public. The minimum width of the route shall be 36 inches except at doors. To fix this issue, create one, 36-inch-wide accessible route from the (new) access aisle to the building entrance ramp. Mark out boundary lines temporarily with duct tape or traffic ones. Permanent boundary lines can be painted. Sidewalk Issue #1 Sidewalk joint has a two -inch -wide gap L Reeommendation: In order to keep a level and consistent surface area, fill the gap with a substance that connect the hvo sections of concrete. Issue #2 The curb next to ramp is seven inches tall (top of sidewalk to parking lot) and there is no accessible route Recornmendat%n: The ADA states that for floor or ground surfaces, vertical changes. in level cannot exceed '/ -inch tall. Installing a ramp that connects from the sidewalk to accessible route would be the normal suggestion but since ramps cannot protrude into existing accessible routes, it is recommended to post an accessible route sign at the corner of access aisle and route to inform voters ofpathway. Consider placing a cone at end of sidewalk to alert pedestrians of drop. Observation #3 Page 6 of 49 Brazos Co. at foot of ramp. When raining, this could create a very slippery, unstable surface. Recommendatlon: Practice a lot of caution at this location if it is raining during voting hours. Consider having a staff person help voters through water or allowing voters to utilize curbside voting if it is too slippery for them. Issue #4 Base of ramp has a change in surface level ranging from'!+ inches to one -inch tall. guidelines. This does not meet ADA Recommendation: The ADA states that for floor or ground surfaces, vertical changes in level cannot exceed 1 /4 -inch. For changes in level between'/a inch and'/Z inch, insert a beveled ramp to smooth the transition. For a temporary solution, use mat as pictured above. This mat will provide a smoother transition from the parking lot to the ramp. Issue #5-S ADA guidelines state that ramp with a rise (height) greater than six inches is required to have handrails on both sides of ramp. The taltestpoint of this ramp is I I" from the ground. It is recommended to install another set of handrails on wall side of ramp. The clearspace between the handrail and wall shall be] 1 /2 inch. Top of handrail gripping surface shall be mounted between 34 and 38 inches. If the ramp is higher than b" and does not have flared sides edge protection will be required. The purpose of these curbs is to prevent anyone and their mobility assistance devices from falling off the ramp. Curbs/edge protection Page 7 of 49 Brazos Co. shall be a minimum oft inches tall. Install acurb/edge protector on side of ramp (pictured above). Asa temporary solution, a sheet ofplywood or other solid surface can be placed against side of ramp and rise two inches above ramp surface. Issue #7 does not meet minimal ADA requirements. Recommendation: ADA guidelines state the landing clear length should be a minimum of 60". This length allows enough room to maneuver self and mobility device while having enough space for the door to open as well. As a permanent solution, it is recommended to espafid the landing by eighteen inches. As a temporary solution, considerpropping door open during voting hours. Because the top of the landing will be eleven inches above the parking lot surface, edge protection and handrails will also need to be installed. Building Entrance Issue #1 Entrance door has a round knob. This does not meet ADA guidelines. Recommendation: Door hardware must be usablewith one hand without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Acceptable types of doorhardware are levers, pull, push bars. As a temporary solution, prop open door during voting hours or add a retro-fitted lever knob. New Zion Baptist Church 1505 Dansby Street, Bryan TX **Inspection performed on Dansky Street entrance** Parking **Due to lack ofaccess routes and in accurateparhzngspacefaccess aisle measurements, all parking spaces will creed to be reconfigured. ** Issue #1 Far left van -accessible parking space does not have an accessible route to the sidewalk. Page 8 of 49 Brazos Co. Reconunendadon: Each accessible parking spaces must be connected to another accessible route/pathway to the building entrance. Because the current van -accessible parking (VAP) space does not have that route (due to the five -inch curb at head), a readjustment of parking spaces and access aisles must occur. Between the two existing VAP spaces, there is an undesignated parking space. The current access aisle that connects to the sidewalk is on an incline so the width cannot be adjusted. To improve this issue, it is suggested to use the undesignated parking space as the new VAP. The new VAP boundary lines will expand 36" to the left to meet VAP width requirements of 132". The other existing VAP will be converted into an access aisle for the new VAP space. Repaint boundary lines of new VAP to reflect new 2 Issue #2 Recommendadoh: meet minimal ADA guidelines. Page 9 of 49_ Brazos Co. ADA regulations require atypical access aisle to measure 60 inches wide.A 604rich width provides the minimum amount of space for a person to maneuver out/around their car and allow for space if using a van lift. Since this access aisle is on an incline, it is difficult to create an adjustment without accommodating for surface level changes. To fix this issue, suggestions for using the left parking space as an.access aisle have been made (see Parking Issue #1). Issue #3 Accessible parking sign heights range from 37- 46 VI inches. This IS. Accessible parking signs must be upright and cannot be limited to ones that are obscured by a parked vehicle. The minimum height for signs is 60 inches above ground surface. Increase sign heights by following measurements: Sib 1-remove from original spot and move to emptypoll, make sure the it meets minimal height requirements. Sign 2- cover this sign or remove. This space will not be used as a parking spot. Sign 3- Increase sign height by 13.6_'. To adjust height of sibs, u-bracket may slide up and down poll. If needed, an extension can be added to. polls because they are hollow. Observation ##4 .ccessible parking space. If there is any discharge from this spout it could cause for the surface area of this parking space to become slippery and unstable. Monitor the condition ofparking space. If itbecomes flooded or inaccessible, close down the parking space until it is stable and more accessible. Sidewalk Issue #1 Close to the access aisle, there is an uneven section of sidewalk. The surface level changes from ''/a- 3/4 inches. Page 10 of 49 Brazos Co. The ADA states that for floor or ground surfaces, vertical changes in level cannot exceed 1/4 -inch. tor changes in level between'/ inch and inch, insert a beveled ramp to smooth the transition. It is suggested to fill this space in the sidewalk and make it level with the rest of sidewalk surface area. As a temporary solution, place a rubberized mat over this area to create an even, smooth surface area. Issue #2 *If this part ofsidewalk; connects to the voter entrance, please implementsttggestions entrance, disregard. ** Left entrance door has a one -inch, gap at slope and,door threshold. if not used for voter In order to keep a level and consistent surface area, fill the gap with a substance that connect the two sections of concrete. Building Entrance **From the DansbyStreet area, there are three possible entrances to use. They will be described as left door (ID), double door (DD), and right door (RD) ff , _Left door Double door Rtghfdaa Issue #1 (DD) Page II of 49 Brazos Co. ADA standards state that doorway thresholds shall be % inch high maximum. Anything higher than t/" may cause people to trip or difficulty in entering with a mobility assistance device. Provide a small wedge ramp for this area to help transition the difference in surface level. Issue #2 (RD) eshold Recommendation: ADA standards state that doorway thresholds shall be inch high maximum. Anything higherthan V" may cause people to trip or difficulty in entering with a mobility assistance device. Pr0N7de a small wedge ramp for this area to help transition the difference in surface level. Beacon.Baptist Church 2001 East Villa Maria Rd, Bryan TX *'Assessed the three accessible parking spaces in parking lot that faces Villa Maria Street. � Parking Issue#I This is too narrow. ADA regulations state the minimum width of a van_accessible parking space is 96" wide. If a van accessible parking space is 96 inches wide, the access aisle may be a minimum of 96 inches wide. It is recommended to expand the VAP three inches to the right. In orderto adjust to newwidths, expand the adjacent access aisle three inches to the right. Repaint new boundary lines of VAP and access aisle. New boundary lines can be temporarily Page 12 of 49 Brazos Co. marked with duct tape or traffic cones. Issue #2 This is too narrow. Recommendation: _ ADA guidelines state that car parking spaces should be a minimum of 96-inches-wide. To meet these requirements, move theparlangspace's leftboundary line six inchesto the left. Repaint boundary lines to reflect new width. As a temporary solution, mark new boundary lines with duct tape or traffic cones. Issue #3 Due to adjustments of other packing spaces, the middle parking space now has a width of 82-inches. This does not meet minimal guidelines. Recommendation: One VAP and one accessible parking space meet the minimal number of required parking spaces for a parking lot this size (1 -2 5 spaces). Because an additional space is not required, the simplest solution is to not use the remaining space of middle accessible parking spot. Cover existing accessible parking sign so people do not think this is an accessible parking location. (See illustration in Issue #2). Bryan Ballroom 703 Palasota Street, Bryan TX Issue nl Accessible parking spaces and parkin; lot, in general, consist of loose gravel and grass. This does not meet Recommendation:: ADA standards state that ground surfaces shall be stable, firm, and.slip resistant. Loose gravel can cause someone with unsure footing to slip or trip. Temporarily remove loose gravel from access aisles/route or cover with rubberized mats. As a permanent solution, install concrete in the highlighted area above (parking, access aisles and routes). Issue #2 There is no designated van -accessible parking. Page 13 of 49 Brazos Co. Reconimendadon: ADA standards state that each parking lot should have at least one van -accessible parking space. The required ,'van accessible" designation is intended to be informative, not restrictive, in identifying those spaces that are better suited for van use. The parking space on far right will now serve as the van -accessible parking space. To identify this space for van -use, include a van -accessible sign below existing parking sign. Issue #3 lines. This does not meet ADA guidelines. Recommendation: ADA standards states thatparking spots shall be marked to define the width and access aisles should be marked as to discourage parking in that area. Mark these boundary lines and defined widths with paint/spray paint. As a temporary solution, boundary lines can be marked with traffic cones or duct tape. Listed below are the - -.measurements needed for each space: Far -left space: 96" wide Middle access aisle: 60" wide Far -right (VAP): 132" wide *Far -right access aisle: 132-+" *This space will also serve as an accessible route so it needs enough space to connect the Y.4P to building entrance. Issue #4 Far left accessible parking space and adjacent access aisle do not have an accessible route to the building entrance. ndards. Each parking space must have an accessible route to the building entrance, use the 40 wide path in-between the parking blocks and building wall. Surface of this area is loose gravel, will need to temporarily cover with rubberized mats until a more permanent solution is incorporated. Issue #5 Accessible parking signs measure 51.5" and 53 3/8" from the ground. This does not meet ADA guidelines. Page 14 of 49 Brazos Co. Recommendation: Accessible parking signs must be upright and cannot be limited to ones that are obscured by a parked vehicle. The minimum height for signs is 60 inches above ground surface. Increase the height of each sign so the bottom of die sign hits 60" from the ground. Building Entrance Issue #1 ing do not have door handles. This is not accessible. Recommendation: Doors without automatic openers need to have handles. Do not use this entrance, use the entrance doors on opposite side (east) where closest accessible parking is located. jUillican Cormmzinity Center 22284 Pierce Sp -eel, Millican 7X Parlang Issue #.1 Entire parking lot consists of loose gravel. This does not meet ADA standards. Recommendation: ADA standards state that ground surfaces shall be stable, firm, and slip resistant. Loose gravel can cause someone with unsure footing to slip or trip. Lay concrete in accessible parking areas and access aisle. As a temporary solution, provide rubberized mats for access aisle area so that the surface can be stable and slip resistant. Issue #2 Bothe the accessible parking spaces andaccess aisles are not properly marked on parking lot surface. This does not meet compliance standards. Page 15 of 49 Brazos Co. Recommendation: ADA standards states that parking spots shall be marked to define the width and access aisles should be marked as to discourage parking in that area. Each parking space will Have a 132" width and the access aisle will be 60" wide. All parking and access aisles can have 96" widths as an alternative. Mark these boundary lines and defined %widths with paint/spray paint. As a temporary solution, boundary lines can be marked with traffic cones or duct tape. *Curbside parl.ing could occitr at arty parking spot next the existing accessible parking spaces* Sidewalk Issue #1 to building entrance. Recommendation: Accessible routes must connect parking spaces to accessible entrances. Use the above pictured location as the accessible route from the parking lot to the building entrance. Because the area is comprised of loose gravel, temporarily use rubberized mats in this area to create a stable and even surface area. To create a permanent accessible route, lay concrete in this area. Make sure the width is a minimum of 36-inches. Issue #2 Page 16 of 49 Brazos .5%. This is too steep. Sketch of ramp style to Ramp landin replace existing ramp. Recommendation: ADA regulations state die least possible slope should be used for any ramp. The maximum slope of a ramp shall be a 1-inch rise for every 12 inches ofruu (1:12) which is an 8.33%slope. Anew ramp will need to be built. In order to meet ADA minimal measurements, it may be best to build an "L" shaped ramp and landing(s) so the slope of the ramp is more gradual and easier to navigate. Door on opposite end of building (back) would not be an appropriate alternative due to being far from accessible parking, no accessible route from parking lot; does not have an ADA compliant door know, entrance has a non- compliant threshold, and is accessible via stairs. Building Entrance * There are threepossible ennancepoints thatiWers con use. Doorslentrances havebeen evahrated left to right Door 2 (W), and Door i (D3). * :seen door) has a round knob. This does not meet compliance standards. Recommendation: Door hardware must be usable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Acceptable types of door hardware are levers, pull, push bars. As a temporary solution, prop open door during voting hours or add a retro-fitted lever knob. Replace round knob with lever style door handle. Issue #2 (DI) Entire threshold, from the porch surface to the door threshold measures a total of S 1/" tall. This does not meet compliance standards. Page 17 of 49_ Brazos Co. ADA standards state that doorway thresholds shall be l/ inch high maximum. Anything higher than''/" may cause people to trip or difficulty in entering with a mobility assistance device. Provide a small ramp to cover this difference in surface level. Issue #3 (D2) Actual entrance door (not screen door) has a round knob. This does not meet compliance standards. Recommendation: Door hardware must be usable with one hand without tight gasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Acceptable types of doorhardware are levers, pull, push bars. As a temporary solution, prop open door during voting hours or add a retro-fitted lever knob. Replace round knob with lever style door handle. Issue #4 (D2) _—.- -- _---- Door threshold is tall. This does not meet compliance standards. Recommendation: ADA standards state thatdoorway thresholds shall be'/a inch high maximum. Anything higherthan'/z" may cause people to trip or difficulty in entering with a mobility assistance device. Provide a small ramp to cover this difference in surface level. Issue #5 (D3) Entrance door has a round knob. This does not meet compliance standards. Recommendation: Door hardware must be usable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Acceptable types of doorhardware are levers, pull, pushbars. As a temporary solution,prop open door during voting hours or add a retro-fitted lever knob. Replace round knob with lever style door handle. Issue #6 (D3) standards.' ADA standards state that doorway thresholds shall be inch high maximum. Anything higher than Y2" may cause people to trip or difficulty in entering with a mobility assistance device. Provide a small wedge ramp to cover this difference in surface level. Wellborn Baptist Church 145 75 FM 2154, College Station TX Parking Issue #1 Page 18 of O9 Brazos Co. over sign with curbside oting designation. Parking spaces must have accessible routes that connect them to building entrances. This allows for safe passage when traveling through parking lots and other paths of travel. To fix this issue, do not use this parking space. Instead, considerusing this space for curbside voting. Cover existing accessible parking sign with a temporary sign which designates space for curbside parking. Issue #2 Van -accessible parking spaces has a width of 94/95 inches. This is too narrow. Y.S. _ �.a <£!� .��' .•, r . ..- ., Recommendation: Van accessible parkingspaces canmeetoneof two width requirements (132-inch VAPand 60" access aisle) (96- inch VAP and 96-inch access aisle). In this case it is recommended to make the VAP 132" wide by expanding the space 37" to the right (into existing access aisle). Repaint boundary lines to reflect new width of parking space. Boundary lines can be temporarily marked by traffic cones or duct tape. Issue #3 is too narrow. ADA guidelines state that car parking spaces are a minimum of 96" wide. This provides enough space for the individual to maneuver in out of car safety. To fix this issue, expand the parking space three inches to the left (as pictured above). Repaint boundary lines to reflect new •vidth ofparking space. Boundary lines can be temporarily marked by traffic cones or duct tape. Page 19 of 49 Brazos Co. *After modifications, the adjacent access aisle will have a total width of 118" which is more than enough to meet minimal requirements. Make sure all boundary lines have been redrawn/painted or temporarily marked with duct tape/traffic cones. Issue #4 Access aisles do not have a designated accessible route to sidewalk/voter entrance. This does not meet ADA Recommendation: Each parking space must have an accessible route to the building entrance. It is recommended to block off the area in front of main building/voter entrance in parking lot so that multiple parking spaces can use this as a safe and accessible pathway to building entrance_ Mark off boundarylii eswith duct tape or traffic cones. If needed, this space could also serve as a voter drop-off area. Christ Church 4201 State Hivy 6, College Station TX "Because this is a potentially neu, voting area, the exact voting entrance is unknown. DRT.r staff inspected the parking spaces by the Welcome Center. There are two groups ofparkin a rpaces: one set of parkin a spaces by the pool (PP) and another in front of the coffee shop (CP). Parking Issue #1 (CP) Page 20 of 49 Brazos Co. Accessible parkin~ spaces voters should use, located by pool. Recommendation: In relation to van accessible parking spaces, access aisles have one of two width requirements to meet: Van accessible parking (VAP) space = 96 inches wide, the access aisle = 96 inches wide VAP space = 132 inches wide, the access aisle = 60 inches wide. Because the VAP is 103"wide, the connecting access aisle must be a minimum width of 96". In order to modify these widths, all the above pictured parking spaces and access aisles (along with non -accessible space) would have to repaint their boundary lines. Unless changes are made, it is recommended to not use these spaces and direct voters to the above pictured accessible parking spaces. Living Hope Baptist Church 4170 State Hi y 6 South, College Station TX Parking Issue #1 Recommendation: ADA standards state that each parking lot should have at least one van -accessible parking space. The required "van accessible" designation is intended to be informative, not restrictive, in identifying those spaces that are better suited for van use. The minimal width of a VAP is 96-inches and the adjacent access aisle must be 96- inches wide. Expand accessible parking space three inches to the right. Expand neighboring access aisle 36 inches to the right. Repaint boundary lines to reflect new widths. Boundary lines may be temporarily marked with traffic cones or duct tape. Post a "van -accessible" just below existing accessible parking sign. Issue #2 Page 21 of 49 Brazos Co. ►g space. Recommendation: Parking spaces (VAP) should have a vertical clearance of98-inches minimum. Monitor the limbs of tree to ensue they do not hang below minimal height guidelines (98-inches from ground). Issue #3 route are beginning to fade. This does not -meet compliance standards. Recontmendadon: The purpose of a designated accessible route is to provide a space that alerts traffic to a pedestrian crossing zone, to alert drivers to slow down, and inform pedestrians that there is a stable, accessible space to cross. It is recommended to repaint boundary lines so crossing space is easy for pedestrians and drivers to identify. Observation 44 Building Entrance Issue #1 be used as a curbside voting space. Page 22 of 49 Brazos Co. too steep. ADA regulations state the least possible slope should be used for any ramp. The maximum slope of a ramp is 8.33%. Doors on the side of building do not have sloped entrances and hardware is accessible. It is recommended to use this as the accessible voter entrance. May need to post signs directing voters to the accessible route/entrance. College Station Utilities kftg and Training Facility 1603 Graf}ain Road, College Station TX Parldng -- Issue #1 ible designation. Recorumendadon: Accessible parking signs (print and symbols) need to be easily identifiable. It is recommended to repaint this wording and symbols on this sign. If possible, consider enlarging the "van accessible" wording so it is more visible to individuals. As a temporary solution, cover the existing sign with posterboardtlarge paper stating "Van - Accessible Parking". Sidewalk Issue #1 Building entrance door's power operated button's wheelchair symbol is beginning to fade. Page 23 of 49 Brazos Co. Accessible routes and their markings need to be easily identifiable. It is recommended to repaint the symbol on this door opener. Sr. Francis Episcopal Church 1101 Rock Prairie Rd, College Station TX Parking Issue ##1 L fire hydrant. This is not permitted. Reconiniendatlon: Texas Transportation Code prohibits drivers from parking a vehicle -whether occupied or unoccupied — within fifteen feet of afire hydrant. It is recommended to not use this parking space. Block off parking space with a traffic cone. Issue #2-3 Accessible parking is not located closely to the voter entrance. The curb ramp that connects this parking space to the sidewalk has a 16% slope. These issues do not meet ADA guidelines. Inaccessible features: Page 24 of 49 Brazos Co. Recommendation: Accessible parking spaces should be located on the shortest accessible path to the building/voter entrance. This close proximity is an attempt to minimize the strain for a person with a disability. A.DA regulations also state the leasipossible slope should be used for any ramp. The maximum slope of a ramp is 8.3 3%. Due to the distance between the accessible parking spaces andthe voter entrance, plus the steep curb ramp, it is suggested to relocate the accessible parking spaces closer to the voter entrance. Take down/cover die existing accessible parkin; signs. It maybe necessary to post signs directing voters to the new accessible parking area. The new accessible parking will be located across from the voter entrance/walkway to church office. Far left space will serve as thevan-accessible parking space, the middle spot will be the access aisle, and the right parking space will also be accessible paiking.-Mark offboundary lines for the access aisle with traffic cones/duct tape. VAP and accessible parking spaces will require appropriate, ADA compliant signage. It may be possible to post temporary parking signs on the existing signs in front of parking spaces. Issue #4 entrance. Recommendation: Provide one, 36-inch-wide accessible route connecting the parking spaces to the sidewalk (as pictured above). Temporary boundary lines can be outlined with duct tape or traffic cones. A permanent solution will include painting boundary lines in the above referenced location. College Station ISD Admin Building 1812 Welsh, College Station TX Parking Issue Al There is no designated van -accessible parking space. This does not meet compliance standards. Page 25 of 49 Brazos Co. ADA standards state that each parking lot should have at least one van -accessible parking space. The required "van accessible" designation is intended to be informative, not restrictive, in identifying those spaces that are better suited for van use. The far -left parking space can serve as the designated VAP spot. Add a van -accessible sign to the bottom existing parking sign. Issue #2 Accessible parking signs are 43 i'Z inches from the ground. This does not meet ADA guidelines. Reconunendation: Accessible parking signs must be upright and cannot be limited to ones that are obscured by a parked vehicle. The minimum height for signs is 60 inches above ground surface. Increase the sign heights by 16 % inches. Observation #3 Please be aware that both parking spaces appear to have drainage spouts that feed into the spaces. This could be problematic if it rains on a voting day. Drainage could create a slippery surface area, making it difficult to maneuver. Sidewalk/Building Entrance Issue 4.1 Sidewalk from the voter exit door is not accessible. Recommendation: Voters must have an accessible means of entering and exiting a building/pathway. As a solution, allow voters %vho need an accessible path to exit through the entrance door. Lincoln Center 1000 Eleanor, College Station TX No major issues found at this location at time of inspection. Parkway Baptist Church 1501 Southwest Privy, College Station TX Parking Issue #1 Van -accessible parking sign is 57" from the ground and the accessible parking sign- is 56" from the ground. This ADA regulations state at minimum, the bottom of the accessible parking sign must be 60 inches above ground Page 26 of 49 Brazos Co. surface. Increase the VAP sign by two inches and the accessible parking sign by four inches. Observation #2 Curbside voting location can occur at covered drive up/drop off area in front of voter entrance. Sidewalk Issue #1 Sloped arealramp in front of VAP (left side) has a slope ranging from 9-10.2%. This does not meet compliance Recommendation: ADA regulations state the least possible slope should be used for any ramp. The maximum slope of a ramp is 8.33%. If voters cannot get to the buildingentrance due to the steep incline, please bring the voting machine out to the voter in their parking space. A permanent solution will include rebuilding the incline to meet ADA guidelines or creating an alternative accessible route to the voter entrance. Issue #2 From the public sidewalk there is a sloped accessible route that connects to the church sidewalk. The width of this )es not meet compliance standards. ADA guidelines state the minimum width of a pathway should be a minimum of 36" and that the maximum slope of a ramp is 8.33%. It is recommended to not use this route, place a traffic cone in pathway. AcPz VI Church of Christ 2475 Earl Rudder Freeway, College Station TX Page 2.7 of 49 Brazos Co. Parking Parking spaces will be divided into two groups: left side ofentrance(LP)andrighiside ofentrance (RP). There are a total of twelve accessible paring spaces on both sides. Issue #1 (LP) Issue #2 (LP) ;ts with sidewalk. This is too steep. his is too steep. Recommendation (Issue 1-2): ADA regulations state the least possible slope should be used for any ramp. The maximum slope of a ramp is 8.33%. The far -left access aisle (Issue 1) is 24 5/8" long with a 10.1% slope. To make this slope accessible, the surface level would have to be one -inch higher to make a compliant slope percentage. The second to left access aisle would have to increase by two inches. If increasing the surface level height/slope rise is not conducive to the property's budget, then it is recommended to not uses these two parking spaces or their adjacent access aisles. Issue #3 (LP) an adjacent/connecting access aisle. This does not Recommendation: ADA a idelines state that accessible parking spaces should have an adjacent access aisle and that access aisles shall be permitted to be placed on either side of the parking space. It is recommended to not use this parking space. Cover the existing accessible parking sign with a paperbag, poster board,paper or other appropriate item. Page 28 of 49 Brazos Co. Another option would be to have this parking space serve as an access aisle to the parking space on left side. Boundary lines would need to be marked off to prevent parking in this space. Issue #4 (LP) ADA guidelines state that car parking spaces should be a minimum of 96-inches-wide. To meet these requirements, move the parking space left boundary line seven inches to the left. Repaint boundary lines to reflect new width. As a temporary solution, mark new boundary lines with duct tape or traffic cones. Issue #5 (RP) does not meet ADA guidelines. Recommendation: ADA guidelines state that car parking spaces should be a minimum of 96-inches-wide. To meet these requirements, move the parking space right boundary line five inches to the right. Repaint boundary lines to reflect new width. As a temporary solution; mark new boundary lines with duct tape or traffic cones. Sidewalk Issue #I (RP) not meet ADA guidelines. Recommendation: ADA regulations state the least possible slope should be used for any ramp. The maximum slope of a ramp is 8.33%. It is recommended fix this slope to meet minimal ADAguidelines orblock offuse of this slope and place signs for accessible voter parking.on the left side of entrance. Page 29 of 49 Brazos Co. Parking Issue #1 icecominenuation: The parking space to the right of pictured access aisle is the van -accessible parking space which measures one - hundred -and fourinclies wide. Because of the VAP width, the access aisle must be a minimum of 96" wide. To meet this width, die existing access aisle must expand 25" to the left and 3" to the right. This will leave adjacent parking spaces within ADA compliance. Paint new boundary lines of access aisle/parking spaces. Temporarily mark boundary lines with traffic cones or duct tape. Issue ##2 Accessible parking sign on far left is 57.5" from the ground. This does not meet compliance standards. Page 30 of 49 Brazos Co. wecontinenaauon: The minimum height for signs is 60 inches above ground surface. Increase sign height by 3.5" to meet minimal height standards. Issue #3 This does not meet compliance standards. The minimum height for signs is 60 inches above ground surface. Increase sign height by five inches to meet minimal height standards. Observation #4 sign is pretty small and hard to recognizelidentify from more than five feet away. In attempt to make van -accessible designation easier to identify, consider (temporarily) increasing the font size of "van -accessible" designation. Could place a paper/cardboard with larger text over existing sign or even place a temporary sign underneath existing sign, so that voters may be able identify with other traditional van -accessible sign location. -Curbside parking could occur at ogre of the visitorparking spaces or at a parking space across front accessible parking Zion Church ofKurten Page 31 of 49 Brazos Co. 977 tV. MJ 2038, Kurten TV Parking Issue #1 Two accessible parking spaces on far left do not have an accessible route to the sidewalk. compliance standards. This does not meet Recommendation: ADA standards state that every accessible parking space needs an accessible route to the building entrance. Requirements also state that a parking lot with 26-50 parking spaces is required to have a minimum of one accessibleparking space with a sixty -inch -wide access aisle and one van -accessible parking space. The simplest - solution would be to not use these two featured parking spaces. This parking lot will still be left with the minimal parking space requirements. Cover parking signs with a bag, cardboard or other appropriate item. Issue #2 le parking spaces on far right. Recommendation: ADA guidelines state that accessible parking spaces should have an adjacent access aisle and that access aisles shall be permitted to be placed on either side of the parking space. The purpose of an access aisle is to provide space for the driver/passenger to maneuver in and out of the car with enough space to accommodate their disability. Using the space between the pictured parking spaces, paint boundary lines for access aisle (space is 104" wide). As a temporary solution, boundary lines can be defined with duct tape or traffic cones. Sidewalk Issue #1 Concrete sidewalk from parking lot to voter entrance stops abruptly and is replace by a flagstone path. This does not meet compliance standards. Page 32 of 49Brazos Co. Xecomm ndation: ADA standards state that ground surfaces shall be stable, firm, and slip resistant. Loose ravel can cause someone with unsure footing to slip or trip. It is suggested to cover the route to voter entrance with rubberized mats. A permanent accessibility solution would be to extend the concrete sidewalk in the route to the voter entrance. Castle Heights Baptist Church 4504 E. Huy 21, Bryan TY Parking Issue #1 Accessible parkin# spaces on left side of ramp have uneven surfaces that consistent of a mix of concrete, arass, ADA standards state that ground surfaces shall be stable, firm, and slip resistant. The consistency of grass when wet or dry can create difficulty when someone with mobility challenges is attempting to cross a pathway. It can be instable and cause people to slip; there may be an undefined level change and could cause a voter to trip; and create unnecessary resistance if using a mobility assistance device. It is recommended to not use these parking spaces for voting purposes. Cover existing accessible parking signs that correspond to these spaces. Issue #2 essible. Recommendation: Every parking lot needs at least one VAP. Use the highlighted parking space, closest to the base of ramp, as the designated VAR Add a "van -accessible" sign to existing parking sign. Issue #3 Page 33 of 49 Brazos Co. S. Accessible parking spaces should have adjacent access aisles. In the above picture, use the middle parking space as the access aisle. This space is 105" wide, so it will meet minimal width requirements. Paint new boundary lines to designate space as an access aisle. As a temporary solution, use traffic cones or duct tape to block of people from parking in this space. Cover up the corresponding accessible parking sign. Issue #4 cessible route to voter entrance. In parking facilities where the accessible route must cross vehicular traffic, marked crossings enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for people using mobility aids. Where possible, it is preferable that the accessible route not pass behind parked vehicles (aside from the individual's own vehicle). It is recommended to create one, 36-inch- wide accessible route at the head of (new) VAR This will provide a route from parking space to voter entrance without crossing behind another vehicle. Mark off boundary lines with cones/duct tape or permanently create boundary lines with paint. Sidewalk Issue #1 9%. This is too steep. Recontrnendadon: The maximum percentage for any slope is 3.3%. Attempt to see if air accessible temporary ramp can be used in Page 34 of 49 Brazos Co. this space or if a move permanent fix can be made. Given the location and layout of this space, it may not be possible. If using the preacher/preacher's wife parking spaces for ramp, that area will need to be blocked off. Issue #2 standards. vches RecUBtmandatlon: ADA guidelines state the top oflvandrail gripping surface shall be mounted between 34 and 38 inches above the ramp surface. The top of handrail must increase by a m_ininium of two inches to meet minimal compliance standards. Add extensions to existing handrails. -- Issue #3 does not meet ADA standards. Recommendation: Ramps and landings with drop-offs higher than 6 inches shall have curbs, walls, railings, or projecting surfaces that prevent people from slipping/falling off. Curbs/edge protection shall be a minimum of 2 inches tall. The purpose of these curbs is to prevent.anyone and their mobility assistance devices from falling off the ramp. Install a curb/edge protector on side of ramp (pictured above). As a temporary solution, a sheetofplywood or other solid surface can be placed against side of ramp and rise two inches above ramp surface for entire length of ramp. Issue #4 There is a 2 '/4 inch gap between the ramp and handrail. This does not meet ADA guidelines. Page 35 of 49 Brazos Co. weconuuenaatnon: See recommendation for Issue #3. Building Entrance Issue #1 ADA standards state that doorway thresholds shall be Vz inch high maximurn. Anything higher than'l" may cause people to trip or difficulty in entering with a mobility assistance device. Provide a small wedge ramp to cover this. difference in surface level. Issue #2 knob. This does not meet compliance standards. Reeommendation: Door hardware must be usable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Acceptable types of d'oorhardware are levers, pull, push bars. As a temporary solution, prop open door during voting hours or add a retro-fitted lever knob. A permanent fix will require installing an ADA. compliant door handle. Arena Hall 2906 Tabor Rd. B?yan TX Page 36 of 49 Brazos Co. Parking Issue #i Van -accessible parking sign is in a positionwhere it's viewcan be potentially obstructed. It is also 54" from the ground. This does not meet compliance standards. 27 Move sign to this post. Recommendation: Accessible parking signs cannot be obstructed from view by parked cars orother objects. At minimum, thebotom of the accessible parking sign must be 60" above the around surface. It is recommended to relocate the van - accessible parking sing to the neighboring post. Issue #2 Accessible parking sign is 39 inches from the ground. This does not meet compliance standards. Recommendation: Accessible parking signs must be upright and cannot be limited to ones that are obscured by a parked vehicle. At ign must be 60" from the ground surface. It is recommended to add an extension the minimum, the bottom of the s to the existing post and increase sign height by 2I". *Curbside voting parking space can be on the left side of building, entrance (in gravel tot). Sidewalk issue #i Part of sidewalk has a rise in surface, it appears to be filled in to create a more accessible surface area. At time o inspection, this space was covered with a rubberized mat Page 37 of 49_ Brazos Co. To ensure a level surface area, keep the rubberized mat in the above pictured location. Church ofthe Nazarene 2122 E. Rilliani JBryan Navy, Bryan TX Parking Issue #1 Far left access aisle is 60" wide. This does not meet minimal width requirements for adjacent VAP parking. Reconunendadon: ADA guidelines state that if a van accessible parking space is 96 inches wide, the access aisle must be a minimum of 96 inches wide. It is recommended to relocate the VAP space to the far -right accessible parking space (102 wide) and use the neighboring space as an access aisle. Temporarily lay out access aisle boundary lines with traffic cones or duct tape. Move the van accessible parking sign to the new space. Sidewalk Issue #1 Ramp on sidewalk has a 10.6% slope. This is too steep. Recon:ntendadon: ADA regulations state the least possible slope should be used for any ramp. The maximum slope of a ramp is 8.33%. It is recommended block off use of this ramp because of its inaccessibility. Place a cone in this pathway. Relocate the accessible parking space to the other side of new access aisle. Relocate the accessible parking sign to mark new location. Page 38 of 49 Brazos Co. Brazos Center 3232 Briarerest Drive, Bryan TX Parkins � There are a total offourteen accessible partdngspaces in this lot (11 accessible parking 3 i!4P). Because there are so marry accessible parking accessible it would s, useful to determine which ones are closely located to voter point tivas uTaknor�n. Inspectionfocused on entrance and focres on those. At tune of inspection, the voter entrance van -accessible parking spaces. Issue #1 are not individually marked with appropriate signage. Recommendation: Accessible parking spaces cannot be solely identified by markings on the pavement because parked cars can obscure the identification. Each accessible parking space must be identified by an uptight sign that at minimum, has the bottom of the sign no lower than 60" above the ground surface. In order to meet ADA standards, it is recommended for even, accessible parking, space to have an upright sign that has the universal. symbol of accessibility. Since this inspection is focused on accessibility of polling sites, it is encouraged to start with the parking spaces that will be used for voting. Issue #2 Not all of the accessible parking spaces have a connecting accessible route to sidewalk. This does not meet compliance standards. Recommendation: Accessible routes must connect parking spaces to accessible entrances. Where possible, it is preferable that the A accessible Accessible routes mute not se connect parkedparking spacesvehiclt (aside from the individual'y own vehicle). The minimum width of the route is 36 inches. There is a vacant space between parking blocks and curb but it is not wide enough to use as an access route. It is sug,;ested to focus on using the four spaces atboth sidewalk curb cuts (admin/office and museum entrance). Issue #3 The van -accessible parking space on the left side of museum entrance (access aisle) is 92" wide. This is too narrow. Page 39 of '49_ Brazos Co. The minimal width for a van -accessible parking spaces is 96-inches. To meet minimal width requirements, g space.boundary lines will need to be repainted. In order to expand the right boundary line four inches. Parkin temporarily mark new boundary lines, outline new space with traffic cones or duct tape. Issue #4 Three out of the four VAP sirs do not meet minimal height measurements. Recommendation: The non-compliantvan-accessiblepariang sirs are 58" from the ground. Increase sign height by two inches to meet minimal 60" height requirement. - - -- First Baptist Church Bryan 3100 Cambridge Drive, Bryan 7X **This location has anpleanlounts ofaccessible parking spaces throughout the entire parking lot. During the inspection, the parking spaces oil left side of voter entrance were focused upon. Parking Issue #1 The accessible parking space onthe far -right side does not have an upright accessible parking sign. This does not Recommendation: Each accessible parking space must have an upright sign that identifies it for accessible parking. Install a sign where die bottom is 60" from the ground, ensure it has the universal symbol for accessibility on it An alternative use for this space could be to serve as the curbside voting parking spot. Issue #2 Two of the accessible parking sign range are 1-2 inches short of meeting minimal height guidelines. Recommendation: Increase sign height to meet minimal height guidelines of 60". Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church Page 40 of 49_ Brazos Co. 1228 W. bi11a Maria Road, Bryan TX Parking Issue #1 e rrecc;hle narking soaves are not located close to voter entrance Potential voter entrances Recommendadon: Accessible parking spaces should be located on the shortest accessible path to the building/voter entrance. This close proximity is an attempt to minimize the strain for a person with a disability. Due to the distance between the accessble parking spot and the original voter entrance, it is suggested to consider relocating the voter area. Please review building spaces to see if the voting area/entrance could occur in the front of building. )aces. This does not meet compliance standards. Accessible parking signs must be upright and cannot oe iiii-ed to ones that are obscured by a parked vehicle. Accessible parking spaces shall be designated as reserved by a sign showing the international symbol of , the bottom of the accessible parking sign must be 60 inches above ground surface. It accessibility. At minimum is recommended to install accessible parking sigiis at the above highlighted locations. ADA standards state that each parking lot should have at least one van -accessible parking space. The required "van accessible" designation is intended to be informative, not restrictive, in identifying those spaces that are better suited for van use. The two parking spaces to the far -left will serve as van accessible spaces. Ensure that these signs also have the van -accessible designation included. Issue #3 does not meet compliance standards. There are no designated access aisles for the accessible parking spaces. Page 41 of 49_ Brazos Co. ADA guidelines state that accessible parkin¢ spaces shoutct nave an adjacent access aisle and that access aisles shall be permitted to be placed on either side of the parking space. The purpose of an access aisle is to provide space for the driver/passenger to maneuver in and out of the car with enough space to accommodate their disability. The above featured parking spaces will serve as access aisles. Paint new boundary lines (temporarily with traffic cones/duct tape) to prevent people from parking in these spaces. Issue #4 No designated accessible routes from parking spaces to building entrance/sidewalk. This does not meet Recommendation: Accessible routes must connect parking spaces to accessible entrances. In parking facilities where the accessible route must cross vehicular traffic, marked crossings enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for people using mobility aids. The minimumwidth of this route is 36-inches. Create one; 36-inch-wide accessible route from the (new) access aisle, to covered eave (blue truck) to sidewalk that leads to voter entrance. Mark boundary lines to reflect width with traffic cones/duct tape or permanently with paint. Sidewalk (Behind main building) Issue #1 Where sidewalk meets parking lot, thereis a rise in surface level that ranges from 1318 to 1 '/ inches tall. This does not meet compliance standards. Page 42 of 49 Brazos Co. Recorun:eudation: The ADA states that for floor or ground surfaces, vertical changes in level cannot exceed 1/4-inch. It is recommended to place a rubberized mat over this rise in surface or place a small wedge/beveled ramp so that a smooth surface can be created for pedestrians. Issue #2 that is '/2 inch tall. ADA guidelines slate changes in level between'/� inch high minimum and Y inch high maximum shall be beveled with a slope. Another option maybe to fill in crack with an appropriate substance that will smooth outiprovide a level transition to each surface area. Issue #3 Reconintendadon: meets door. Page 43 of 49 Brazos Co. In order to create a level surface area, as a temporary solution it is recommended to place a rubberized mat at this area so that smooth transition can be created. As a permanent solution, fill gap in surface area with caulk or other appropriate substance or install a small wedge ramp. Voter Entrance —Not close to accessible parking spaces" Issue #1 Door has a round door knob. This does not meet compliance standards. Recommendation: Dodr hard%Nure must be usable with one hand without tight gasping, pinching, ar twisting of the wrist. Acceptable types of doorhardware are levers, pull, push bars. Asa temporary solution, prop open door during voting hours or add a retro-fitted lever knob. A permanent fix will be to replace round knob with lever door handle. College HeightsAssensbly of God 4100 Old College Road, Bryan TX Parking Accessible parking at rear of building (RB) and side of building (SB). Issue #1 (SB) ccess aisle. This does not meet ADA standards. Reconnnendadon: ADA guidelines state that accessible parking spaces should have an adjacent access aisle and that access aisles shall be pennitted to be placed on either side of the parking space. Cover the existing parking sib and use the accessible parking space to the left (pictured above) as the access aisle. Mark off boundary lines with paint or temporarily with traffic cones/duct tape. n. .nstall 60" VAP sign here. Recommendation: Accessible parking sites must be upright and cannot be limited to ones that are obscured by a parked vehicle. Page 44 of 49 Brazos Co. At minimum, the bottom of the.accessible parking sign must be 60 inches above ground surface. Install a parking sign with the universal symbol of accessibility, along with a van -accessible sign at the head of parkins space. Issue #3 (SB) Curb ramp that connects parking lot to sidewalk is 31.25" wide and has a 5/8" tall lip. This does not meet Recommendation: ADA guidelines state that ramps/passageways need to be a minimum of 3 6" wide and that ground surfaces should not have a change -in level exceeding'/4 inch. It is recommended to coverthe existing curb ramp with a ramp that meets ADA guidelines or fixing the current curb ramp so that it is accessible. Issue #4=5 idjacent access aisle. ssible ng sign ion Recommendation: Every parking space should be marked by an upright sign. Install -one accessible parking sign with the universal symbol of accessibility. The bottom of this sign should be a minimum of 60" above the ground. The accessible parking space is 121 inches wide. In order to create an access aisle parking space will need to be repainted to reflect new parking space width of 96" and a new access aisle of 60". Temporary boundary lines can be marked with traffic cones or duct tape. Issue #6 (RB) There is no designated/marked accessible route from the accessible parking space to sidewalk/building entrance. Page 45 of 49 Brazos Co. Accessible routes must connect parking spaces to accessible entrances. In parking facilities where the accessible route must cross vehicular traffic, marked crossings enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for people using mobility aids. It issecornmended to create one, 36-inch-wide access route connecting the new access aisle to the building entrancelsidewalk. Boundary lines may be temporarily marked with traffic cones or duct tape until the permanent painted boundary lines are installed. Sidewalk Issue #1 (SB) to sidewalk joint (by air conditioner) that is 1 '/" wide. This is too wide. Recommendation: A gap in surface level this ~vide could cause items to get stuck in the gap. In order to create a consistent, level surface area, fill this gap with a self -leveling sealant or other appropriate substance. Issue 42 (SB) There are various plauts/bi pathway. Traveling around protruding vegetation is not always an option for someone who relies upon the sidewalk pathway (there is a 3" curb), has a visual impairment, uses a mobility device that cannot easily go over bumps. Due to the height and width of this vegetation, there are concerns ofpeople getting hit in the face or the walkway narrowing to a non -compliant width. It is recommended to trim back any shrubs/bushes that protrude into the sidewalk/walkway. Issue 93-4 (RB) There is a 1-1.5" rise in surface where the ramp meets parking lot. The other side of this ramp has a surface level change of .75". This is not accessible. Page 46 of 49 Brazos Co. Recommendation: The ADA states that for floor or ground surfaces, vertical changes in level cannot exceed 1/4 -inch. In order to create a consistent, Level surface area, fill this gap with a self -leveling sealant or other appropriate substance or cover with a beveled ramp or other accessible ramp. Issue #5-6 (RB) Where the sidewalk meets the voter (office) entrance there is a %a" rise in surface. Although DRTx staff was unable to measure at the time of inspection, the entrance ramp seems to surpass maximum slope measurements, making the ramp inaccessible. MIX rl� ' ! fir. , Recornmend—a on: To meetboth issues of inaccessibility, it is recommended to cover the existing ramp andrise in surface area with an ADA compliant ramp (slope no greater than 8.333%). If it is not possible to replace the ramp, it is suggested to find another, more accessible entrance into the voting area. v Texas A&M College ofiLledicine 8447 Riverside Parkivay, Bryan TX DRTx staff evaluated the accessible parking found the visitor parking between the Health Science Center and the School of Medicine. No major issues were found at time of inspection. Texas A&M Memorial Student Center 275 Joe Routt Blvd, College Station TX Parking * * DR Tx staff e va lua ted parking in the Gene Stallings Garage. One must pay a fee to park in this garage. �* Issue #1 Page 47 of 49 Brazos Co. ose to voter area (northeasueast side or nunatng). Accessible parking spaces should be located on the shortest accessible path to the buildinglvoter entrance. 'I his close proximity is an attempt to minimize the strain for a person with a disability_ Due to the vast distance between the parking garage and the voter entrance/atea, it is suggested to relocate the voter entrance/area. In the interest of close proximity, it is recommended to find a space available on the west side of MSC, across the street from the Gene Stallings Garage. There appears to be a Veteran Resource Centerand a print shop on that side of the building, see if they would be willing to serve as a polling site. No other technical or ADA compliance issues found at this location. There are several general observations regarding this voting site. See below. Observation #1 — _- Due to the location of the parking garage and where election staff are working, where is curbside voting located and what system is used to alert election staff of voter presence for curbside accommodation? Observation #2 At time of inspection, it was required to pay a fee to parkin the garage. Is this something voters will have to do? If this covered by the elections office, how does that cost impact the election budget? Observation #3 If voting is kept in the location of room 2406, A LOT of directional signs will be required to inform voters of (accessible) routes to the voting area. Please note that implementing the above recommendations of temporary solutions does not guarantee the full accessibility of all polling locations. Because polling sites were not set up for elections (no voting booths or check -in tables were present) and I was not able to inspect the interiors of the buildings, some elements of accessibility were impossible to assess, and could potentially present barriers during elections. Although the county is responsible for ensuring compliance with ADA.standards at all polling locations and should work to remedy all barriers prior to Election Day, focusing on fixing major issues at polling locations with multiple accessibility issues may help decrease the chance of a voter with a disability encountering a problem at one of those locations. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring the accessibility of Brazos County's polling locations. Again, I am available to provide training on accessibility and other topics impacting voters with disabilities to county officials and staff. We also have a webinar available to train poll workers on how to interact with voters with disabilities. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Sincerely; Molly Broadway, MSW Page 48 of 49 Brazos Co. Trainin' and Technical Support Specialist for Voting Rights Disability Rights Texas Enclosure: United States Department of Justice Polling Place Accessibility Checklist cc: Secretary of State Elections Division Page 49 of 49_ Brazos Co. k TEXAS CIVIL RIGHTS PROJECT Statement to Brazos County Commissioners To County Judge Peters and Members of the Commissioners Court, Accessible elections are a cornerstone of democracy. That is why the Texas Civil Rights Project fully supports establishing a polling place at the Memorial Student Center (MSC) on the Texas A&M University campus. Part of running a fair and equitable election is identifying polling places that are accessible to voters. Texas A&M is the largest university in the country with an enrollment of over 70,000 students, and a sizable portion of the student body are eligible voters. Therefore, in order to ensure that the Texas A&M students, who are central to the community fabric of Brazos County, are able to easily cast their ballots, it's imperative that a polling place be established on the campus that so many of these voters traverse on a daily basis. On -campus polling locations allow diverse groups of young people to make their voices heard at the ballot box. Additionally, creating easy access to elections for young and first-time voters often sparks lifelong patterns of civic engagement. Establishing a polling place at the MSC would achieve all of these goals. Just last summer, Texas A&M students testified before this court advocating for the permanent return of an on -campus polling during Early Voting and Election Day. Today, they are here reminding this body that it is the responsibility of our elected officials to protect and expand access to our democracy. Thank you for your time and consideration. Texas Civil Rights Project For comments or questions, please contact Miguel Rivera(miguel(@texascivilrightsproject.or) The Texas Civil Rights Project is a 5oic(3) non prof t organization thatfights to create a fair and equitable Texas. IJ Wo"' Common Cause Texas Brazos Co. COmmissioners Court Testimony Katya Ehresman Common Cause Texas 6.28.2023 Hello, my name is Katya Ehresman and I am the voting rights program manager at Common Cause Texas where we represent over 50,000 members across the state — and I am calling on the Commissioners Court to recover and ensure the polling location at the MSC In College Station At Texas A&M University. As elected officials, and representatives of the campus community — it is imperative to remember that communities know where their centers and population hubs are, and today you have students & advocates telling you that the Memorial Student Center is a necessary location for the enfranchisement of student voters. Texas has a dangerous background with poll closures; hosting more than 2x the next state and nearly half of all poll closures across the country in the years following the Supreme Court decision Shelby County v. Holder, which was decided 10 years ago this past Sunday. On the anniversary of this decision — it is more imperative that this body listen to the advocates in front of you and ensure that students do not need to come to your court every year, for every election, and continue to make the same case that the Memorial Student Center should remain a polling place in all elections going forward. A report from the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights articulates that "Decisions to shutter or reduce voting locations are often made quietly and at the last minute, making pre -election intervention or litigation virtually impossible. Closing polling places has a cascading effect, leading to long lines at other polling places, transportation hurdles, denial of language assistance and other forms of in -person help, and mass confusion about where eligible voters may cast their ballot." We saw this clearly last November, when the County had to spend $5,000 and student organizations had to raise over $10,000 to provide equitable transportation for the students that clearly showed they WANT to vote, and should not be subjected to the arbitrary barriers to their enfranchisement. We ask the Commissioners today to be on the right side of history and listen to the students asking for your support in their freedom to vote. Brazos County Commissioners, I am asking for your consideration of 2 voting locations for the primary and general election. Last year the court voted to move the Pct 3 location at the request of the Pct 3 commissioner to the new College Station City Hall. This move made it much more difficult for students, faculty, and staff of Texas A&M to vote. The commissioner stated later that the move had been a mistake and that she would work to return it to the MSC. I propose that with our growing county it might be more effective to have both City Hall and the MSC. Our election office incorrectly advised last year that we must have equal numbers of voting locations in each precinct. This was determined to be inaccurate as we could have more in three by statute. In addition, voters on the far east side of the county are required to drive an hour each way to vote at arena hall. I am aware of many voters who are disenfranchised by this. I am also asking that Kurten be added as a regular primary voting location. I assume that the Pct 2 Commissioner will help with this request for Edge, Kurten, and all of east Brazos County. Sincerely, Russ Ford Brazos County Commissioners, Nearly a year ago, the court made the unjustifiable decision to remove Texas A&M's Memorial Student Center as an early voting location, making it significantly harder for A&M's students, faculty, and staff to vote. Not only was the decision made during the summer when few students were in College Station, but after months of community input supportive of recovering the MSC, the court refused to act. We're coming down to the wire, and there is no more time for protest, the MSC needs to be recovered. There are currently over 72,000 students enrolled at A&M, and making it increasingly difficult for them to vote early is voter suppression. On -campus polling locations allow diverse groups of young people to make their voices heard at the ballot box and beyond in a central, close location, sparking lifelong patterns of civic engagement. Voting should be easy. It is the responsibility of our local politicians and leaders to ensure greater access to the voting booth by creating conditions that favor voter education and registration. Support for recovering the MSC as an early voting location spans far and wide, with advocates representing different political ideologies, organizations, and universities. The community has spoken: we need an early voting location at A&M's Memorial Student Center. We urge you to do the right thing and recover the MSC. Sincerely, The MSC Votes Coalition For comments or questions, please contact Maggie DiSanza (maggie P tfn.org) or Kennedy Fears (kennedyfears ptfn. org)