Butte Businesswoman Overcomes ADA Barriers with Community Support

A Butte businesswoman has finally received permission from the city to build an access ramp to the front of her business. The owner of Top Deck Medical Aesthetics and Wellness, Jamie Decker, had been working tirelessly for an ADA access ramp since June 2023. Initially, her requests were denied due to right-of-way encroachment on the city-owned sidewalk and liability concerns. However, she continued to advocate for her cause, gathering support and attending City Council meetings to make her case.

At the April 17 Council of Commissioners meeting, Decker was accompanied by dozens of supporters, many of whom had disabilities themselves. Their impassioned testimonies resonated with the commissioners, ultimately leading to the approval of the access ramp permit. The display of strength and grace from the supporters left a lasting impact on many of the commissioners.

Supporters of Decker wore T-shirts bearing the message “The Future is Accessible,” underscoring the importance of accessibility for all individuals. Their pleas for the installation of the ramp highlighted the need for equal access to essential services and the positive impact it would have on the community. People with disabilities expressed frustration at being excluded due to a lack of accessibility, emphasizing