I am a parent of multiple individuals with developmental disabilities.  I am a board member with an agency that serves people with developmental and other disabilities.  I am also a former support coordinator for people with developmental disabilities. 

With all of these life experiences, I have learned that HCBS settings rule and OHR regulations exist to protect the rights of people with disabilities who are receiving waiver services.

The DD waivers are designed to allow individuals with disabilities to live in their own natural communities with integrated services.  Although there are not sufficient providers or services in most localities across the Commonwealth, that does not mean regulations should be ignored or changed.

Vanguard Landing and other disability-centered communities are certainly options for people with disabilities if that's where they choose to live.  However, this should not be the model for where waiver services can be provided.  By definition, DD waiver services should be as integrated as possible. Segreting individuals with disabilities into a facility or community is what we have been trying to move away from since Olmstead.

I do not believe that Vanguard Landing is HCBS compliant.  I appreciate the opportunity to comment.