Key points from the city:
The City of Kitchener is looking for a diverse range of volunteers, particularly from those who are traditionally under-represented to lend their unique voices and perspectives to help guide the City’s decision-making by joining various committees and boards. Citizens serving on an advisory committee provide advice and feedback to City Council and standing committees on a variety of areas, including arts and culture, cycling and trails, downtown, and the environment, and boards have the autonomy to make decisions for the good of their organizations.
“Serving on a citizen committee or board is an excellent way to make a difference and give back to the Kitchener community. We know that our best work happens when the whole community is represented around these tables,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “This is a great opportunity for Kitchener citizens who are passionate about our community, want to become more involved in the City’s decision-making, and use their skills and experiences to help make Kitchener a place that everyone is proud to call home.”
For the first time, a series of demographic questions in the application will be asked to help inform the selection process. Applications are reviewed based on how well they represent the diversity of the community, the candidate’s expertise and interest in an issue or topic area, and the goals of each advisory committee’s terms of reference. Applications for citizen advisory committees will be reviewed by a nominating committee that consists of members appointed by City Council. Once this process is complete, the nominating committee will present council with a list of candidates for each committee. Each board is responsible for its own board member applications and will review applications based on the same criteria as citizen committees as well as skills and experience. Once board candidates are selected, they will also be presented to Council.
“Having a diversity of perspectives and opinions on our citizen advisory committees and boards ensures Council can make informed decisions that benefit the Kitchener community as a whole,” said Councillor Paul Singh. “Engaging with residents on a variety of areas that are most important to them positions us well to achieve our community goals.”
Applications are now open and will be accepted until Sept. 27. For more information or to apply, visit www.kitchener.ca/citizencommittees . For assistance in completing your application, contact Sarah Coutu at 519-741-2200 ext. 7592.