What Rights You Have for Disability Accommodations When Dealing with Ector County Detention

Ector County's Human Resources Director serves as the ADA Coordinator, handling accommodation requests. The current contact is Dana McWilliams. Not sure where your request should go? Start here: (432) 498-4025 or dana.mcwilliams@ectorcountytx.gov.

You have the right to request an interpreter when communicating with Ector County staff - and you shouldn't be pushed to "just bring a family member." County guidance explicitly states staff should not suggest or require that you use a relative. You also won't be billed for interpreter services.

Where you send your request depends on the situation. For sign language or oral interpreters outside of law enforcement, corrections, and court settings, contact the ADA Coordinator. Same goes for CART (real-time transcription) in non-court situations. But for scheduled services at the jail, route your request through Jail Administration - and try to give at least 48 hours' notice when possible.

• ✓ Request interpreter services at least 48 hours ahead when possible.
• ✓ If the need is unscheduled (like a field encounter or booking), the typical response time is 30 minutes to one hour.
• ✓ If you asked a specific department directly, that department head is supposed to notify the ADA Coordinator immediately in writing.

Need a county document in an alternate format? Plan for some lead time. The county aims to provide alternate formats within 10 business days. Simple changes may come faster, but complex requests can take longer.

One limitation to know upfront: Ector County can't convert documents to Braille in-house. If you need Braille, expect outside coordination and additional time.

If you use TTY or need relay support due to a speech or hearing impairment, dial 7-1-1 to reach Relay Texas. Trained communications assistants relay messages between text telephone users and standard voice phone users, letting the conversation happen in real time.

If you need to file an ADA-related grievance, know that the county keeps records. Ector County policy requires retaining ADA-related documentation for at least three years - including self-evaluation reports, modification descriptions, barrier reports, and grievances with the actions taken.

1. Write down what happened and what you asked for - include dates, who you spoke with, and the accommodation you requested.
2. Submit your grievance in writing - keep a copy of what you send.
3. Follow up through the ADA Coordinator - the County’s ADA Coordinator is the Human Resources Director, and the listed contact is Dana McWilliams at (432) 498-4025 or dana.mcwilliams@ectorcountytx.gov.
4. Save your paperwork - the county is required to retain ADA-related grievances and related records for at least three years, and having your own copies helps if you need to reference the timeline later.

Not every accommodation request will be granted exactly as asked - some fall into excluded contexts or need different routing. For interpreter needs outside law enforcement, corrections, and court settings, the ADA Coordinator handles requests. Contacting that office early is usually the fastest way to get a clear answer and avoid being bounced between departments.