Olympia wants advisory committee members

Olympia is looking for community members interested in serving on its various advisory committees.

According to an Olympia press release, there are currently eleven vacancies in various advisory boards, with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) and Utility Advisory Committee (UAC) each needing four new members; and the Heritage Commission, Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC), and Social Justice & Equity Commission having one opening each.

BPAC, the city says, is responsible for encouraging Olympians to walk and cycle around the city, helping in developing plans to make Olympia easier to travel on foot or by bike, and reviewing the city’s Capital Facilities Plan.

The UAC’ advises on four public utilities: water, wastewater, storm, and surface water, and waste Resources; and coordinates with the city’s Public Works in making recommendations on issues such as service and revenue rates in the city, which are used in supporting utility operations and infrastructure.

The Social Justice and Equity Commission aims to “eliminate racism and fulfill human rights for a just and equitable Olympia for all people” and deals with complaints of discrimination, human rights violations, and other forms of inequity in the city.

PRAC makes recommendations to the City Council regarding parks and recreation plans, policies, programs, and projects; and serves as a liaison between community members and the Council on parks and recreation-related matters, explained the statement.

The city’s website explained that advisory committees are a structured way for individual community members to share their opinions and perspectives, study issues, and develop recommendations in a focused small group.

“Their primary purpose is to provide judicious advice, from a community member's perspective to the Olympia City Council,” it furthered.

The city explained that committee members’ terms are usually three years, with appointments starting on April 1 and ending on March 31.

“To reduce barriers to community member participation, the City will offer stipends of $25 per meeting attended to Advisory Committee members,” the city’s website pointed out. “Those members who certify as low income are eligible to receive stipends of $50 per meeting attended. Advisory Committee members may waive the stipend upon request.”

Olympia is the only city in Thurston County that offers compensation to its advisory committee members.

Interested community members can inquire and apply on the city website. Applications are currently ongoing and will end on Friday, December 16, at 5 p.m.