OADS thanks city

<p>Editor: I am writing to express appreciation for the support to people with disabilities demonstrated by the city of Petaluma and members of the City Council. Old Adobe Developmental Services has connected people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities to their communities through employment and education since 1971. </p><p>For much of that time, we have contracted with the city to provide necessary public services, like litter abatement in downtown areas and the police department and regular cleaning of the Keller Street parking garage. This arrangement provides valuable work training for nearly 30 individuals and preserves public funds by saving the city money on payroll expenses and worker's compensation insurance. The individuals we serve love their jobs and take great pride in the work they do.</p><p>Recently, OADS held an open house at our Rand Street location to celebrate the achievements of our program participants. We were very pleased to have the support of Mayor Pamela Torliatt, Vice Mayor David Glass and Councilmember Teresa Barrett, who spent time getting to know our program participants and their guests. This further demonstrated the commitment of our city to supporting people with disabilities. </p><p>I am honored to live and work in a community that provides opportunities to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to contribute and be recognized for their successes.</p>