City of Abilene

Boards and Commissions

HOW TO GET APPOINTED

Serving on an advisory or regulatory board or commission is an excellent way to influence decisions yet many interested citizens are often not appointed because they have not made their qualifications, abilities, experience, and interest known to the public officials who make appointments. Board and Commissions are established by local ordinance or resolution. They act in either an advisory or regulatory capacity.

For all City appointive positions:

A. Contact the City Secretary for a list of boards and commissions.

B. Target the board (commission, committee) that you are interested in.

1. Match up your experience, talents, and qualifications with the proper board. Some boards have specific occupational or organizational affiliations required for at least some of the positions.
2. Investigate how much time is involved, if personal expenses are involved, and if a special application form is necessary.

C. Make your interest known.

1. Prepare or update your vita/resume to show how your experience qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
2. Complete and submit the online application below,
or download the Word or .pdf version.
3. Send a cover letter along with the vita and any necessary applications to the City Secretary expressing your interest in the appointment.
4. Follow-up with a personal contact to any member of the City Council.
5. Ask individuals or groups for their support and endorsement.

D. Monitor the vacancy. If very much time elapses, determine if a second application is necessary.

E. Establish your identity and credibility with elected officials; monitor meetings; attend and testify at hearings; ask for and provide information on issues; offer to do volunteer work; be informed and knowledgeable on the issues; be visible.

Complete this form and select Send at the bottom of the form.