Southern Wisconsin Times

The City of Janesville is seeking volunteers to fill upcoming vacancies on its board, commission, and committee positions. Serving on one of these committees is a valuable opportunity for community-minded individuals to contribute to the city's development and decision-making processes.

According to the City of Janesville, members of boards, commissions, and committees play a crucial role in advising the City Council on various matters and making recommendations on important policy issues. Their detailed studies and advice often lead to innovative programs and improved services for the community.

There are several openings available, and applications must be received by Sunday, March 10, 2024, to be considered. The City of Janesville is currently seeking volunteers for the following boards, commissions, and committees:

- Community Development Authority (CDA) – 2 voting members

- Downtown Business Improvement District Board – 2 voting members

- Janesville Mobilizing 4 Change Board of Directors (JM4C) – Up to 6 voting members, up to 1 student representative

- Library Board of Trustees – 1 voting member

- Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee – 1 voting member

- Plan Commission – 3 voting members

- Police & Fire Commission – 2 voting members

- Sustainable Janesville Committee – 2 voting members

- Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) – 1 voting member

Each of these committees has its specific responsibilities and meeting schedules. For example, the Community Development Authority is responsible for overseeing the City's Rent Assistance Program and implementing various community development projects. Their meetings take place on the third Wednesday of each month.

The Downtown Business Improvement District Board focuses on revitalizing the downtown area, and their activities are governed by a BID Board. The board meets a minimum of two times a year, as required by the BID By-Laws.

Janesville Mobilizing 4 Change Board of Directors is a non-profit organization that aims to reduce youth alcohol and substance misuse. Up to 6 voting members, including a student representative, are needed for this board, which meets on the third Thursday of each month.

The Library Board of Trustees is responsible for setting policies for the operation of the Hedberg Public Library and preparing the library's budget for City Council approval. Their meetings occur on the third Tuesday of each month.

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is tasked with reviewing and making recommendations on matters related to planning, development, operation, maintenance, and promotion of parks and recreation programs. This committee comprises ten citizen members and one Councilmember.

The Plan Commission plays a vital role in reviewing planning, zoning, and physical development items referred from the City Council. They also prepare and adopt the City's Comprehensive Plan or Master Plan. Their meetings take place on the first and third Monday of each month.

The Police & Fire Commission is responsible for the hiring of the Police and Fire Chiefs and the approval of their subordinate appointments. They also review charges against and may discipline or dismiss the Police or Fire Chief or any subordinate. Meetings for this commission occur on an as-needed basis.

The Sustainable Janesville Committee focuses on advising the City Administration and the City Council on environmental sustainability issues. They meet monthly on the third Tuesday of the month.

Lastly, the Zoning Board of Appeals reviews requests to vary or modify standards in the zoning ordinance. Meetings for this board take place on the fourth Tuesday of each month.

To be eligible for appointment to a committee, individuals must have an interest or knowledge of the committee's subject matter and be able to attend meetings regularly. Some committees also require members to be residents of the City of Janesville. More information about committee residency requirements can be found on the City's official website.

Individuals interested in volunteering can complete an application form online at www.janesvillewi.gov/committeevolunteer or request a paper application from Assistant to the City Manager Nick Faust at faustn@janesvillewi.gov or (608) 755-3103. The deadline for submitting applications is Sunday, March 10, 2024.

After the application deadline, the Advisory Committee on Appointments will review the applications and make their recommendations to the City President or City Manager. The final appointments will then be presented to the City Council for confirmation at their regular meeting on Monday, April 22.

For any questions or further information, individuals can contact Assistant to the City Manager Nick Faust at faustn@janesvillewi.gov or (608) 755-3103.

By volunteering for a board, commission, or committee, residents of Janesville can actively contribute to the effective and efficient functioning of local government. This is a great opportunity to make a difference in the community and ensure that Janesville continues to thrive.