A call to the City Clerks office regarding the deadline for signing up for boards and commissions prompted one of the staff to say, "The mayor hasn't decided yet but right now the deadline is December 7th."
This leaves a reasonable amount of time to think about signing up for the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board or the Planning and Zoning Commission or perhaps the Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Board. Each of these able bodies has an influence on the acquisition, use, and care of open spaces in our area. There are others with impact on conservation land and that may suit you better so consider going to the City Clerks web page for boards and commissions and check out their pamphlet.
Why should you step forward? Because if you are reading this you have the values that our city desperately needs to be expressed in the conduct of governance. We need you. If not you, who? And a surprising discovery for most who step forward is that it feels good to contribute to our little village.
Most meetings involve a review of the agenda in advance, listening carefully to presentations and input from various interests, and deliberation with fellow members. It is not that difficult, and it is worth it. If you decide to sign up please contact us, and we will help you with the process.