Minneapolis Seeks Diverse Voices For Boards And Commissions, Encourages Community Involvement

Minneapolis Seeks Diverse Voices For Boards And Commissions, Encourages Community Involvement

The City of Minneapolis is on the hunt for diverse voices to join its many boards and commissions, with an open call for applications throughout March. Candidates from varying backgrounds are sought to reflect the city's diverse population and to strengthen team efforts in public policy decision-making processes.

Current members of the city's advisory groups tout the benefits of such involvement. "Being on a committee with the city is such a great way to really impact the world around you and not just experience it, but actually be part of it and learn more about it, about projects and actually play a role in making the city better,” Aaron Shaffer, a member of the Bicycle Advisory Committee, explained in a statement obtained by the City of Minneapolis's news release. Max Singer, also from the Bicycle Advisory Committee, echoed this sentiment, noting, “It makes our city better, it eases understanding and it improves outcomes.”

The various committees serve as conduits between residents and city officials, aiming to ensure that public needs and concerns are directly communicated to those in power. Leisa Meeuwen-Ristuben of the Pedestrian Advisory Committee described this role to the City of Minneapolis, "We serve as kind of a nice bridge between what's happening out on the streets and what's happening in City Hall."

More than 500 individuals currently offer their time and expertise across over 40 boards and commissions within Minneapolis. Such roles have not just benefited the city with practical recommendations, leading to new renter and wage protections among other community investments, but they've also enriched the lives of the volunteers. Singer revealed to the City of Minneapolis how serving had led to personal growth and increased connection to the community.

Opportunities to influence city projects from conception to completion are a unique aspect of committee work. "It really is a rewarding feeling to know that a project came to you from the beginning, from 0% design, just a concept and then you were able to give your input and then you see it 2, 3, 4, years later complete and are actually able to ride your bike on something and see a little design element that you suggested staff look at,” recounted Shaffer in the City of Minneapolis's news release.

Open positions span a range of interests, from food policy to police oversight, the latter of which is taking applications until March 16th. The city ensures accessibility with translation and interpreting services so all residents can participate. Interested parties can find more information and a list of vacancies by visiting the City of Minneapolis website or by calling 612-673-2216.

SOURCE: hoodline