Here’s how to join a city board or commission

Your guide to getting involved with local government.

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Make a local contribution.

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Table of Contents

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but how many members of the community does it take to make a city prosper? From deciding on the art on our public streets to the expansion of greenways, Ashevillians like us are integral to creating our city.

How?

On 30+ city boards and commissions focused on transportation, arts, sustainability, recreation, and more.

Who’s eligible?

Residents of the City of Asheville, plus some county-appointed seats.

How much time?

Time commitment varies, but most commissions meet monthly or bi-monthly. Generally, a term is held for three years.

How can I apply?

Submit applications online here or visit the city clerk’s office and request an application. You can specify the board or commission you’re interested in — or when vacancies occur, City Council will review the applicants on file already. Once you apply, your application will stay live for a year.

Are there any openings?

Yep, currently, there are vacancies in the following groups:

  • Asheville-Buncombe Riverfront Commission (formerly Asheville Area Riverfront Redevelopment Commission)
  • Board of Adjustment
  • Design Review Committee
  • Downtown Commission
  • Housing Authority (application deadline is Nov. 15 at 5 p.m.)
  • Human Relations Commission
  • Metropolitan Sewerage District
  • Neighborhood Advisory Committee (28801 zip code representative)
  • Noise Advisory Board (restaurant industry representative)
  • Public Art & Cultural Commission
  • Sustainability Advisory Committee
  • Transit Committee (a subcommittee of the Multimodal Transportation Commission, appointed by the Commission)
  • Urban Forestry Commission

What’s the deadline?

Applications for this round of vacancies are due Sunday, Nov. 26 at 5 p.m. Asheville City Council is scheduled to make appointments at its Tuesday, Jan. 9 meeting.

Don’t see anything that lights your fire? Keep checking. New openings are posted on a monthly basis.