As residents settle back into their regular routines after the holidays, Commerce City has opportunities on boards or commissions that advocate for the community issues that matter to them most.
The city has openings this quarter for new members in as many as 13 different groups covering a wide variety of interests, and with everything from a Derby Review Board to a Parks & Rec Advisory Committee, there truly is something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available, and what you need to know.
What is the difference between a board and a commission/committee?
Generally speaking, a board requires specific qualifications from its members, (for example, to be on the zoning advisory board, you need to have a professional background in land development), because boards often have the authority to make the final call on their respective issues. This can lead to a higher turnover rate. In Commerce City, three boards currently have open seats available: the Citizens Public Safety Advisory Board, the Derby Review Board and the Zoning Advisory Board.
A commission or committee, on the other hand, does not have absolute authority to make final decisions. Instead, this group operates in a discussion/roundtable manner, working together to provide recommendations for the city and other government bodies.
Membership on either a board or commission has to be approved by City Council. Most only meet once a month, and it is a volunteer position. (To read about current vacancies, click here.)
How do I join?
Go to c3goiv.com/boards to fill out an application before the Friday, Jan. 17, deadline, and then clear your calendar on Saturday, Jan. 25, when staff will conduct interviews over Zoom. Keep in mind that most committees hold monthly meetings in the evening on the third Tuesday of each month.
How do I decide which board or commission is right for me?
It all depends on your interests. The Environmental Policy Advisory Committee is one of the newest committees, created in 2021 as a response to growing community concerns surrounding air quality and pollution from the neighboring Suncor oil refinery. They aim to implement changes and protections to improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and make sure everyone has access to safe and clean drinking water.
The Derby Review Board is responsible for applying the “Derby design guidelines” to guide and inform the development of the Derby sub-area, a historic railroad district in downtown Commerce City. The board meets virtually on the third Tuesday of each month to strategize how to best help their constituents.
The Veteran’s Commission requires a three-year commitment, though you do not have to be a veteran to join. They host monthly events for veterans in the community to help them connect with each other and provide mental healthcare access. The biggest job of the Veteran’s commission each year is running the city’s annual Memorial Day Parade, one of the largest in the state.
The Cultural Council runs the city’s Music in the Park summer concert series, working to select the best musical acts and more. The group’s goal is to support diversity in the city by connecting folks through music, dance and other artistic mediums. It frequently puts on residential art shows and exhibitions at the Rec Center. Unlike other committees or boards, the council is also a nonprofit organization.
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission was created to help individuals coming from traditionally marginalized communities feel accepted. The DEI Committee aims to break down barriers that hold people back from reaching their full potential.
The Parks, Recreation and Golf Advisory Committee is tasked with the responsibility of allocating annual city funds toward outdoor spaces to increase healthy opportunities for social connection for residents. The committee takes into account, and budgets accordingly, with what they are hearing from residents as well as changing age demographics. For example, pickleball is huge right now among young adults, so using funds to build more courts could be worth considering.
The Senior Commission helps the City Council stay informed about the needs of senior citizens in the community. They encourage older adults over 55 to participate to help best represent these voices. They host classes for seniors on technology, fitness and more, and most are completely free.
Being on a board or committee is less of a commitment than, say, running for City Council or school board, but it allows you to have a say on issues you care about. Find out more information on all committees and boards at c3gov.com/government/boards-commissions.
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