Be a Local Leader

There are lots of reasons to complain about being left out of decisions that affect us as a community.

We hear about “elites” who run things, insiders who know the private cellphone numbers of elected officials, campaign supporters with an inside track to getting what they want … while the rest of us get what we don’t want.

What’s the secret? Get involved. Be an insider. Make decisions and make a difference. Don’t call out “Bring it on.” Instead, make the decision to “Take it on!”

Almost every month Asheville and Buncombe County have openings for seats on important public committees. Why shouldn’t our government benefit from your knowledge, experience, and unique perspective?”

Have a voice in the City’s growth and future. Join a group of citizens who are responsible for shaping our policies, services, and education. Sign up to apply to serve on one of Asheville’s many committees. Contact the City Clerk’s Office at 259-5601 or by e-mail at [email protected] for an application form. You might not get appoint the first time you apply, but you definitely won’t if you don’t apply in the first place.

Here are vacancies that you can apply for right now! The deadline for receiving applications for these openings is Wednesday, September 7 at 5 p.m.

Affordable Housing Advisory Committee – Works in conjunction with City leadership and staff to implement the 2008 Affordable Housing Plan. It will (1) consider affordable housing policy issues and advise City leadership about those policies; (2) develop concrete action steps to implement the highest priorities of the Affordable Housing Plan, and update that Plan as appropriate over time; and (3) advise City leadership and staff regarding affordable housing priorities for the investment of City-controlled funds.

Recreation Board – Advises City Council on various matters pertaining to the operation of park facilities and recreation programs within the City of Asheville, to make policy recommendations to City Council, and to carry out duties as may be assigned to them by City Council.

Tourism Development Authority – This vacancy is for an individual who is an owner or operator of a hotel, motel, bed and breakfast, or vacation rental management company with fewer than 100 rental units. The purpose of the Authority is to further the development of travel, tourism, and conventions in the county through state, national and international advertising and promotion.