Massachusetts law and the Americans with Disabilities Act require that meetings that are open to the public must be held in locations that provide, at the minimum, accessible parking, an accessible path of travel, an accessible entrance, and if bathrooms are provided for public use, an accessible bathroom. To assure full participation, communication needs of people with disabilities must also be heeded and accommodations, if requested, must be provided. Requirements such as making advance arrangements to attend meetings or being carried up stairs are unacceptable methods for obtaining access to such meetings.

Legal notices advertising public hearings should include the following language: "The Town of Brookline does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services or activities. Individuals who need auxiliary aids for effective communication in programs and services of the Town of Brookline are invited to make their needs known to the ADA Coordinator, Stephen Bressler, Town of Brookline, 11 Pierce Street, Brookline, MA 02445. Telephone (617) 730-2330; TDD (617) 730-2327."