Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Dave Pine, District 1
Supervisor Ray Mueller, District 3
Subject: Adult Changing Stations in County Facilities
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution urging the installation of adult changing stations in county facilities, acknowledging state requirements for commercial places of public amusement, and encouraging cities and towns to incorporate these stations in their downtown areas.
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BACKGROUND:
Many public restrooms have baby changing tables, but many adults need assistance with self-care and bathroom usage while in public settings as well. Baby changing tables are too small and lack the strength to support many adult restroom needs. Currently, individuals are being changed or helped in unhygienic, undignified, and unsafe places such as bathroom floors or in cars. The lack of proper adult changing spaces affects individuals with disabilities and medical conditions, seniors, and caregivers.
In 2015, the State of California recognized the importance of accessibility by enacting legislation requiring that adult changing stations be installed at places of public amusement that are newly constructed after 2020, and in all such places that are renovated after 2025, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to necessary facilities while enjoying recreational and entertainment venues.
Universal changing tables exist to accommodate people of all ages, no matter height, weight, or ability. The tables provide the option of a fixed-height or adjustable-height to address different needs and the safety of caregivers. It is recommended that these changing stations be installed in locations such as shopping malls, parks, museums, libraries, schools, entertainment and amusement spaces, medical offices, and other public-serving and accessible facilities.
DISCUSSION:
The County of San Mateo is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion by reducing barriers and adopting efforts that ensure all residents can participate, prosper, and reach their full potential in San Mateo County. It has demonstrated this commitment through developing an equity framework and community vulnerability index to identify gaps in equitable resource allocation; the hiring of a Chief Equity Officer; the creation of the Office of Social and Racial Justice; Measure K investments in supportive housing, transit improvements and accessible playgrounds; and through the leadership of the Commission on the Status of Women, LGBTQIA+ Commission, Youth Commission and Commission on Disabilities.
Currently, in San Mateo County, the only known installation of an adult changing station is at San Francisco International Airport. In order to respond to the needs of residents and visitors who may live with a disability or require mobility assistance, it is recommended that the County of San Mateo leads with the installation of adult changing stations in public restrooms at County Government Center in Redwood City and in at least one County Park, with the specific park location to be determined by the San Mateo County Parks Department in consultation with the San Mateo County Parks Commission and the San Mateo County Commission on Disabilities.
EQUITY IMPACT:
This action promotes the accessibility, dignity, and inclusion of all regardless of ability, and contributes to the vision of ensuring San Mateo County is a welcoming and accessible county. Furthermore, this action will involve encouraging San Mateo County cities to consider implementation in public facilities and community spaces as well.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The fiscal impacts associated with installation of adult changing stations in county facilities will be determined by the County Executive’s Office and County Parks Department and approved by the Board in subsequent action and will be reflected in future budget development.