Language Services

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The Town is committed to supporting the right of all residents to communicate with the Town in the language in which they prefer.

We offer free translation and interpretation services for any town related need. Residents can call 919-969-5105 and follow the multi-lingual prompts to leave a message requesting a call back with an interpreter or translation of Town documents. 

The Town also owns interpretation equipment for Town and community use. Community members can borrow the equipment at no charge. 

Learn More about Translation and Interpretation Service and Borrow Interpretation Equipment

What is language access?

Town of Chapel Hill Language Access flyer.(PDF, 176KB)Language access allows community members with limited English proficiency (LEP) - defined as having limited ability to speak, understand, read, or write in English - to use and benefit from a wide range of services.

Did you know that among Chapel Hill residents, 20% of residents speak a language other than English at home and 6% of residents are identified as LEP? Advancing language access in Chapel Hill will support many of our residents.

Why does Chapel Hill need language access?

The Town serves community members in a variety of ways that are important to day-to-day life. Communications that are accessible to the whole community will help Chapel Hill be more inclusive and welcoming to all.

In recent years, the Town has become increasingly aware of the communication gap with residents who speak languages other than English. In 2018, as part of the Building Integrated Communities (BIC) Project, Chapel Hill's immigrant and refugee residents identified language access as a key strategy for the Town to advance to better serve the community.

Since then, the Town, in collaboration with community partners, developed the BIC Action Plan which includes an objective focused on advancing language access across the Town.

What is a Language Access Plan (LAP)?

Town of Chapel Hill Language Access Plan.(PDF, 2MB)

Since the Town receives funding from the Federal government, we are required by Federal law to plan for and provide LEP individuals with meaningful access to services, programs, and activities. A Language Access Plan outlines policies and procedures to ensure meaningful access. On November 13, 2019, the Chapel Hill Town Council unanimously approved a Language Access Plan for Town services and programs.

This Plan helps ensure the Town moves towards policies and procedures supporting the right of all residents to communicate with the Town in the language in which they prefer. It is being updated in 2026. 

The Language Access Plan is available in our primary languages:

What else is the Town doing to advance language access?

  • Providing interpretation services for a variety of public meetings, such as Town Council, public information, and community engagement meetings.
  • Participating in a language access for emergencies and disasters planning process.
  • Working with community partners to address language access needs.
  • Coordinating regular meetings with Manufactured Home Community residents.
  • Hosting Peoples Academy in multiple languages. 

Commonly Used Words and Definitions for Language Access

  • Interpretation: The process of adapting oral messages from one language to another. Often used for meetings.
  • Translation: The process of adapting written text from one language to another. Often used for converting text in documents.
  • Limited English Proficiency (LEP): Describes individuals with limited ability to communicate (e.g. speak, read, write, or understand) effectively in English.
  • Language Justice: The right for all people to communicate in the language they prefer.
  • Meaningful Access: Ability to use resources without significant restriction from language barriers.

To learn more about the Town's language access efforts, contact Katelyn Robalino at krobalino@townofchapelhill.org or 919-968-2733.

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