The
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Greenway Advisory Committee
are seeking new members to fill vacancies. Those interested in joining
either board are encouraged to begin the
application process as soon as possible.
Board members make recommendations on behalf of the community to Parks
and Recreation Department staff, Mayor Kelli Linville, and the
Bellingham City Council.
“We rely on and listen closely to their advice,” James King, Parks and
Recreation Director, said. “It’s important to us.”
The
Greenway Advisory Committee makes recommendations on the expenditure
of Greenway Levy funds to acquire and develop property for parks, trails
and open spaces throughout the City. The committee meets on the first
Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Fireplace Room in the basement of
the Municipal Court Building. The public is invited to attend the open
public portion of the meetings. Executive session discussions related to
land acquisitions are closed to the public. Special meetings are
sometimes held at outdoor sites. GAC recommendations are made to the
City Administration, the Parks and Recreation Board and the City
Council.
The
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board makes recommendations on park
purchase and development, programming priorities, departmental policy
and fees. The board’s major objective is to encourage participation from
all corners of the community. Members meet on the second Wednesday of
each month at 7 a.m. in the Beach Pavilion at Bloedel Donovan Park and
the public is invited to attend the non-executive portion of the
meetings. Board members are encouraged to know and consider Bellingham’s
overall recreation environment, trends and community needs. Board
recommendations are made to the City Administration and the City
Council.
Each group is comprised of citizens of diverse backgrounds. With new
members, the boards hope to gain new perspectives and insight on their
respective issues. “They’re the eyes and ears on the ground for the
community,” King said.
Anyone who is enthusiastic about green spaces and park programming is
encouraged to apply. King hopes to see young people in the applicant
pool.
If you’re interested in applying, you must meet the following criteria:
- Current resident of the State of Washington (3+ years)
- Presently live within Bellingham city limits (2+ years)
- U.S. citizen and registered voter
