ADA Non-Discrimination Policy 
The Mercer County Division of Culture & Heritage (MCDC&H) is committed to ensuring equal opportunity and access to all in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended (the “ADA”), and applicable state and local law. Accordingly, the MCDC&H prohibits discrimination against any employee or applicant on the basis of a physical or mental disability, perceived disability, or record of such a disability. 

The MCDC&H will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees if the reasonable accommodation would allow the individual to perform the essential functions of the position, unless doing so would create undue hardship. 

The MCDC&H strives to make its venues, public amenities, website and workplace accessible and an enjoyable experience for all. Inquiries should be directed orally or in writing to the Division Chief to process all requests for assistance. Upon request, within at least two weeks notification, exhibit or event information will be made available in alternative formats such as large print documents, sign interpretation and captioning for virtual programs. 

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Advanced Notification Policy 
If you require an accommodation or service (i.e. ASL, Open Captioning, Audio Description, etc.), please contact the Mercer County Division of Culture & Heritage (MCDC&H) at LTramo@mercercounty.org or (609) 278-2712. Please make all email subject lines read “ADA Accommodations.” Please make requests at least two weeks prior to your scheduled visit. 

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Accessibility Statement 
The Mercer County Division of Culture & Heritage (MCDC&H) is fully committed to ensuring that accessibility guidelines and requirements as set forth by the federal government and state of New Jersey are implemented in as timely and efficient a manner as possible. The MCDC&H has been consistently responsive to making events, workshops and additional public activities accessible for all people with disabilities and will continue to strive to provide the utmost accessible experience possible. We continue to reach out to and provide assistance and appropriate accommodation. 

The MCDC&H trains its staff and volunteers in order to encourage superior and effective communication and the practice of effective and sensitive techniques to serve members of the community with disabilities. The MCDC&H is also committed to exercising best practice and outreach in regard to employing persons with disabilities, both in artistic and administrative/operational areas. 

The MCDC&H regularly reviews its policies and procedures to adapt, accommodate and address any issues or problems that might arise in regard to ADA compliance and will regularly assess its progress in achieving full compliance. 

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ADA Compliance Grievance Procedure 
This procedure is meant to provide an internal mechanism for the Mercer County Division of Culture & Heritage (MCDC&H) to be used in the event of a complaint received from its public regarding accessibility. This procedure will also assure commentary in reference to the organization’s policies concerning ADA compliance. Every effort will be made to satisfy the complainant at the earliest stages of interaction, based upon the organization’s increasing capacity to provide for full physical and programmatic access. 

Information Gathering 
The Division will communicate with the complainant to determine the nature of the complaint and create an open dialogue with the complainant. Depending upon the location of the complaint, other staff may be involved in this initial process. The goal of this exchange is to address the complainant’s need as quickly and positively as possible, within the scope of the organization’s ability to meet that need, and to use that information to assess future needs determinations. The Division will document all information received. 

Complainant Unsatisfied 
Following the initial Interview, if the client is not satisfied by the initial information gathering process/interview and proposed resolution, the Division will refer the complainant to the County’s Title VI Coordinator in the Department of Personnel. The complainant will need to prepare a written description of the problem which must include: Name, Address, telephone number of complainants, detailed description of complaint, including date and time, location of access barrier, client’s recommendation for resolution, and written complaint. 

The Division will assure the complainant that the purpose of further review is to ensure that a solution is devised that will meet the needs of the client to the best of its ability. 

Reviews of Written Complaint 
Review of the complaint will take place within 30 (thirty) days after receipt of written complaint. The County’s Title VI Coordinator will consider: Is the complaint valid? Was access denied? What were the circumstances of the denied access? Is this a standard or unusual condition? Was lack of access a result of policy, and if so, is a new policy warranted? What must happen for access? Are there possible alternatives? Are there any mitigating factors that would limit resolution to the problem? What is to be done to assure success in the future? Will the solution demand funding? If so, how will it be funded and on what timeline? What follow-up should be done with complainant and by whom? 

Resolution of Complaint 
A recommended and agreed upon resolution will be implemented. Complainant must sign documentation agreeing upon the resolution.