Understanding the Board/Commission System

There are no official categories for the many boards/commissions for the city. However it may be useful to point out certain distinctions. This is not a overview of all of the nuances with the Board/Commission system.

Types of Boards/Commissions

-Advisory Boards
These boards typically meet monthly or quarterly and have no authority over their respective departments. They provide feedback and policy recommendations to city leaders.

-Joint City/County Boards & Commissions
Joint Boards/Commissions are a form of intergovernmental cooperation between to different government agencies. These Boards/Commissions are typically made up of both city appointed and county appointed personnel. They do typically wield authority over their respective agencies, they insure the needs of the city as well as the county are being considered equally.

-Trusts and Foundations
The city operates several trusts and foundations. The city's public trusts are independently operated with the city being its beneficiary. Public Trusts are typically a financing unit for municipal corporations. They allow government sub-divisions (counties and municipalities ) more options in terms of government bond issuances . Foundations are non-profit corporations created by cities to use public funds for typically both economic development and charitable giving purposes. Members of both Trusts and Foundations are appointed by the city council, they provide oversight on funds, approve contracts and make operational decisions.

-Oversight Boards
The city operates several boards that hears appeals on zoning, code, merit system and city personnel violations as well as HR actions. The appointment criteria and process differ from most other boards. For zoning and code boards, the city looks for appointees with building, engineering or master-tradesmen experience. For boards regarding civil service, appointees are typically union representatives or appointed by City Departments.

Considering applying for a Board or Commission ?

It is great that your considering applying. These boards form the legislative backbone of our local institutions and play a vital role in the civic process.  Boards / Commissions a powerful tradition that allow residents to have a say in how their city is run. 

Here are some best practices to consider when applying for a board commission.

1. Research different boards
   There is no 1 size fits all when it comes to volunteering for a board or commission. Each board varies in mission and role within the government, it is important to recognize these differences and evaluate whether you would be a strong candidate for that position. The City Charter lists appointment prerequisites, most advisory boards only require appointees to be city residents. However some may have added stipulations.
   Board information 

Once you have chosen a short list of potential boards, ensure that the boards have opening and see whether you meet all applicant requirements.

2. Fill out Application
   The application is very similar to a job application. The more board relevant experience the better your chances of being selected. These applications are however public record and may be made available to the public. The application should be sent to the City Clerks office via in-person drop off,
   email or mail.
   
   

3. Strengthen your application
   There are several steps you can take to show that you are a strong candidate for your desired position. Attend the board meetings, most the board meetings are open to the public and may take public comment. Seek out recommendations from current or former board members. Seek guidance from your city councilor or mayor about the appointment process and the needs of the city.