Want A Bigger Say in What Happens in Everett? Join A Board.

If you want to actually have an impact on how the City of Everett looks, operates or responds, then you should join one of the city’s volunteer boards. Currently there are several openings on some really important boards and while the work may not be glamorous (and in fact can be a bit boring at times), the decisions made by board members often find themselves turned directly into policy by the Everett City Council. Here’s more information from Meghan Pembroke on the current openings…

The city of Everett is seeking community members to serve on a variety of volunteer boards and commissions.

“Serving on a board is a great way to get to know the city and to be a part of shaping our future,” said Deborah Wright, executive administrator for neighborhoods and community services.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and current residents of Everett. Mayor Ray Stephanson will review the applications and make a recommendation to the City Council for approval of the selected board members.

Interested volunteers can download an application from the city’s website: www.everettwa.org/DocLibrary.aspx?ID=408&LibID=19 or pick up an application at the Mayor’s office at 2930 Wetmore Ave, Suite 10-A. Completed applications should be returned to the Mayor’s office or apogson@everettwa.gov by 5 p.m. Feb. 13, 2015. For questions, please call 425-257-7115.
Current openings include:

• Cultural Arts Commission: The Cultural Arts Commission approves funding for nonprofit arts groups, presents free lectures and musical performances, is responsible for the care and maintenance of the public art collection valued at $2.5 million and has developed an outdoor sculpture exhibition that features sculptures in the downtown. This board meets the second Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m.
• Diversity Advisory Board: This board advises the Mayor and City Council on diversity issues and activities within the city. The board meets the third Monday of each month at 4 p.m.

• Human Needs Advisory Committee: This committee meets each year to review applications and award grants to nonprofit agencies that provide services to Everett residents.
• Planning Commission: The Planning Commission makes recommendations to the City Council, Mayor and other city departments on broad planning goals and policies. The commission meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 6:30 p.m.
• Transportation Advisory Committee: This committee provides direction to city staff and administration on traffic issues, traffic safety, transit service and transportation planning. The committee meets the third Thursday of each month at 8:15 a.m.
• Tree Committee: The committee’s primary responsibility is to review and make recommendations to the Parks Commission concerning the implementation of the public tree policy. The committee meets the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m.

For more information on boards and commissions, visit www.everettwa.org/default.aspx?ID=408.