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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.

Photo by @avltoday

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:

  • Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
  • African American Heritage Commission
  • Asheville Buncombe Riverfront Commission
  • Audit Committee
  • Board of Electrical Examiners
  • Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority
  • Civic Center Commission
  • Historic Resources Commission
  • Housing Authority
  • Multimodal Transportation Commission
  • Neighborhood Advisory Committee
  • Planning and Zoning Commission
  • Public Art and Culture Commission
  • Active Transportation Committee
  • Transit Committee

Note that some boards and commissions have specific application and appointment processes.

What’s the deadline?

Applications for this round of vacancies are due Sunday, April 28 at 5 p.m. Asheville City Council is scheduled to make appointments at its Tuesday, June 11 meeting.

Don’t see anything that lights your fire? Keep checking. Appointments are made four to five times per year.

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