The City of Minneapolis is now recruiting members for boards and commissions. The City is seeking applicants with a diversity of backgrounds and experiences, representing the demographics of our communities to strengthen the work of our teams. Many boards, commissions and advisory committees play roles in the City’s decision-making process. They advise and make recommendations on public policy that affects City services and programs.  

“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,” said Aaron Shaffer, member of the Bicycle Advisory Committee. “Sometimes it's as easy as just asking project staff at a meeting if they can look into X or Y to make the project a little better.” 

“It makes our city better, it eases understanding and it improves outcomes,” said Max Singer, member of the Bicycle Advisory Committee. ““It really is a phenomenal opportunity to work together and be a resource for your city and your community and the causes or issues that you hold dear.” 

“We serve as kind of a nice bridge between what's happening out on the streets and what's happening in City Hall,” said Leisa Meeuwen-Ristuben, a member of the Pedestrian Advisory Committee “Even if you're brand new to the committee, there's always somebody that's willing to talk you through things. You don't even need to know the technical terms in order to say, hey, I want to make sure I can walk from place to place.” 

More than 500 volunteers currently serve on the City’s more than 40 boards and commissions. Many describe the experience of serving as strengthening their personal growth, their connection with community and contributing to their professional development.   

“It has been an incredibly rewarding experience, both the personal development that I've experienced from my learning of the city and processes but also as an opportunity to serve my community better,” said Singer. “Working together with the committee, you build that expertise to both help the city in their projects and help you in being engaged in your community.” 

Boards and Commissions members have brought forward recommendations that have resulted in new protections and investments in the community. A few examples include renter and wage protections, bicycle safety infrastructure, the Climate Equity Plan and ongoing work to update the Minneapolis Civil Rights Ordinance. Whether you’re young or old, a recent transplant or lifelong resident, a small business owner or CEO, all are welcome to volunteer to make Minneapolis an even better place to call home.  

“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,” Shaffer said.  

"Learning about and becoming part of the Food Council has been the highlight of my year!” said Cory Wintersteen, member of the Homegrown Minneapolis Food Council. “I was so happy to find a group of fun, like minded people to talk food, gardening, and community engagement with! I look forward to it every month and by the end of the meeting I always leave feeling jazzed up and excited for the next one!" 

Applications for boards and commissions will be accepted March 1st through March 31st. Applications to serve on the Community Commission on Police Oversight are still open and will close on March 16th.  Translation and interpreting are available so all residents can participate.  

If interested in applying, more information and a list of vacancies can be found at this link. Potential applicants may also call 612-673-2216 or email ABCAdmin@minneapolismn.gov.