Olympia seeking residents to fill vacancies on advisory committees 

The City of Olympia is looking for residents who would like to serve on advisory bodies that help shape local policies, preserve historic resources, promote the arts, and advance social justice and equity.  

Vacancies are on the Arts Commission, Heritage Commission, Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, and Social Justice & Equity Commission. The city made the announcement about the advisory bodies on Monday, Nov. 2.

The application period runs until Monday, Dec. 14 at 5 p.m. 

Applicants selected by the Olympia City Council begin serving on April 1, 2027. Membership terms generally last two years.  

The Arts Commission has one vacancy. The commission supports local artists by providing opportunities for networking, skill development and increased public visibility.  

The Heritage Commission has three vacancies, including two designated for professionals in fields, such as architecture, historic preservation, anthropology, archeology, American studies, history or law. Applicants for the positions should demonstrate an interest in and knowledge of historic preservation.  

The commission was established to identify and encourage the preservation of Olympia’s historic resources, maintain the city’s Heritage Register of Historic Places, and review proposed changes to registered properties. It also works to increase public awareness of local history and advises the city on historic planning and preservation matters.  

The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee has one vacancy for a representative of an agency eligible to receive funding through the program. The committee establishes an annual service proposal process, reviews funding proposals, and makes recommendations to Olympia City Council as it considers budget allocations for the following year.  

Meanwhile, the Social Justice & Equity Commission has three vacancies. Its mission is to eliminate racism and uphold human rights in pursuit of a just and equitable Olympia for all people.  

The advisory bodies provide an opportunity for residents to share opinions and perspectives, study issues, develop recommendations, and provide advice from the community perspective to the council, according the announcement.  

Interested residents can find application forms and additional information about the advisory bodies, including their responsibilities and membership requirements, on the city’s website.