With vacancies across many of its 24 volunteer boards and commissions, Jefferson City officials are accepting volunteer applications from community members.
There are two openings on the Jefferson City Animal Shelter Advisory Committee, three on the Cemetery Resources Board, two on the Environmental Quality Commission, one on the Facade Improvement Committee, one on the Historic Preservation Commission, one on the Planning & Zoning Commission, and two on the Public Transit Advisory Committee, city Administrative Assistant Jennifer Suchanek told the News Tribune.
"We are extremely appreciative of all our citizens who serve on our many boards and commissions and look forward to working with and getting to know more volunteers," Jefferson City Human Resources Department Director Gail Strope said. "We have boards and commissions that span a wide variety of interests, so there really is something for everyone.
Serving three-year terms, Animal Shelter Advisory Committee members discuss the local animal shelter's needs and development. Members must operate a licensed public veterinary office in Jefferson City, according to city code.
The Cemetery Resources Board is in charge of promoting and ensuring the preservation of city-owned sepulchers and cemeteries. Board members serve three-year terms.
Members on the Environmental Quality Commission serve three-year terms and discuss items that would better the community, not limited to environmental improvements.
The Facade Improvement Committee is tasked with making recommendations to the Jefferson City Council regarding improvements to building facades. Committee members serve two-year terms.
With members serving three-year terms, the Historic Preservation Commission is responsible for protecting and promoting the city's cultural and architectural heritage, according to the city's website.
The Planning and Zoning Commission debates zoning issues within Jefferson City. Members serve four-year terms.
The Public Transit Advisory Committee seeks funding opportunities to support the JeffTran bus system and reviews ways to improve JeffTran routes and increase ridership. Members' terms vary, according to the city's website.
Those interested can fill out a volunteer profile form at jeffersoncitymo.gov/meetings_and_agendas/citizen_boards_commissions_and_committees.php.
After filling out a volunteer form, interested volunteers will be placed on a waiting list.
While the Board of Adjustment, Library Board, Tax Increment Finance Commission, and Transportation & Traffic Commission do not have vacancies currently, the waiting list is usually minuscule, according to a city news release.