ADA-CASP COMPLIANCE RESOURCES

In January, the State of California passed SB 1608 Disability Access Law Reform.  According to the California Chamber of Commerce, "The reform legislation, SB 1608 (Corbett; D-San Leandro, Chapter 549, Statutes of 2008), is designed to promote and increase compliance with laws providing equal public access in places of business to individuals with disabilities, while reducing unwarranted litigation that does not advance that goal.

Be aware, this new legislation does not change any Federal ADA compliance laws; however, it does provide businesses with some ways to minimize the impact of lawsuits brought in California State Court.

The CASp Program--In California, a new program provides property inspections through Certified Access Specialists (CASp) who are certified by the State after completing education and testing and are experts in Federal and State disability access laws.

Accessible San Diego has a 20 year history of assisting local hotels with Federal and State Access Education and Training and has provided evaluations and plan reviews for many hotels participating in the San Diego County Hotel-Motel Association.  A new program provided by Accessible San Diego is its CASp Inspection Program provided by Architect Paul Bishop, a long-time consultant to Accessible San Diego.

Accessible San Diego invites interested HMA members to contact Wes Johnson for further information on CASp inspection for your property.  We strongly suggest you review the following links to preview your hotel for possible certification.  You may contact Wes at Accessible San Diego between the hours of 10 a.m.--3:00 p.m. at 619-325-7550.

Your best defense against an accessibility lawsuit is to be prepared and educated on this topic.

ADA Links:

California Chamber of Commerce:  SB 1608 Disability Access Law Reform:  How Does it Help Business Owners

Common ADA Problems at Newly Constructed Lodging Facilities.  "An 11-page document lists a sampling of common accessibility problems at newly constructed lodging facilities that have been identified through the Department of Justice's ongoing enforcement efforts.

Five Steps to Make New Lodging Facilities Comply with the ADA.  "A 3-page document highlighting five steps that owners, operators, and franchisers can take to make sure that new lodging facilities comply with the ADA.

ADA Checklist for New Lodging Facilities

Americans with Disabilities Act Guide for Places of Lodging:  Srving Guests Who are Blind or Who Have Low Vision

State of California Accessible Parking Bulletin


SAN DIEGO TOURISM MARKETING DISTRICT ASSESSMENT

We are pleased to announce that the the San Diego Tourism Marketing District (TMD) has been approved by the San Diego Hotel Industry. The TMD assessment began on January 1, 2008. You may click here to see the letter sent to each assessed hotel outlining the process for the TMD and also a document summarizing the definitions from the enabling documents.   To view the Management Plan, click here.

The San Diego Tourism Marketing District is managed by the San Diego Tourism Promotion Corporation.  Visit their web site for more information, http://www.sdtmd.org


20 GALLON CHALLENGE

The San Diego County Hotel-Motel Association is partnering with the San Diego Water Authority on its "20 Gallon Challenge" campaign to conserve water in our region.  Below are several ways that you can increase your water-saving practices:

Providing guests with water conservation information and tips, such as re-using towels and linens for an extra day.  Complimentary in-room cards with tips for saving water are available through the Water Authority by calling 1-858-522-6713.
Offering water only on request at restaurants and functions.
Installing “smart” and water-efficient irrigation systems.
Reducing outdoor watering schedules.

For additional programs and tips for saving water at your business, click here, or visit www.20gallonchallenge.com.

MEMBER UPDATES

Welcome new members:

CAL TAX GROUP, INC., EMPRESSA MARKETING, COMMERCIAL CONNECT TELEVISION INC., EXPENSE REDUCTION ANALYSTS, AARON J. FARMER INSURANCE AGENCY INC., LE CHEF BAKERY,
HILLCREST HOUSE B & B

Welcome New General Manager:

SARAH GUNTER - THE PEARL HOTEL

DAVID HALL - SAN DIEGO PARADISE POINT RESORT