Volunteer for Olympia: Advisory Committee applications open until Dec. 13 

The City of Olympia seeks community members interested in serving on various committees. The application period is open and runs until Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, at 4 p.m. 

Planning Commission. This body sets Olympia's long-term plans and regulations, including the Comprehensive Plan, Shoreline Master Program, Capital Facilities Plan, and Unified Development Code. Two vacancies are open on this commission.  

• Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. The BPAC develops plans and policies to make Olympia easier to walk and bike in. Two vacancies are open for this committee.  
• Arts Commission. The commission was created to support Olympia and enrich the community through visual, performing, and literary arts. Commissioners support local artists by fostering networking, skill development, and increased visibility through various opportunities. One vacancy is open for the Arts Commission.  

• Cultural Access Program Advisory Board. It was established to guide the city council in implementing the voter-approved Cultural Access Program, ensuring public benefit and proper use of funds. It oversees processes and criteria to meet program goals. One vacancy is open for this board.  

• Heritage Commission. The commission preserves Olympia's historic resources by maintaining a Heritage Register, reviewing changes to registered properties, and raising community awareness about local history. It serves as the city's primary resource for historic planning and preservation. There are two vacancies on the Heritage Commission, one of which requires a professional with expertise in fields related to historic preservation.  

• Social Justice and Equity Commission. The commission's purpose is to eliminate racism and fulfill human rights for a just and equitable Olympia for all people. The commission works to identify, respond to, and ultimately reduce discrimination and human rights violations within the city. Two vacancies are open on the SJEC.  

• Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Advisory Committee. The committee oversees the district's parks, recreational facilities, and programs management. It advises the city and district, ensuring compliance with fund agreements. There is one vacancy open on this committee.  

• Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC). PRAC makes recommendations to the city council regarding parks and recreation plans, policies, programs and projects. The committee acts as a bridge between the community and council. Two vacancies are open on this committee.  

• Utility Advisory Committee. The UAC advises city leaders on policies for Olympia's four public utilities: water, Wastewater, Storm and Surface Water, and waste resources. It recommends utility rates, budgets, and policies to support operations and infrastructure. Two vacancies are open on this committee.  

Advisory committees allow community members to share opinions, study issues and offer recommendations to the Olympia City Council. These committees review key issues, hear public testimony, and conduct research to provide thoughtful, well-informed advice.  

Olympia offers a stipend of $25 per meeting attended by advisory committee members. Those members who certify as low income are eligible to receive stipends of $50 per meeting attended. Advisory Committee members may waive the stipend upon request. 

Olympia's Community Livability and Public Safety Committee will review applications and interview qualified candidates before making recommendations for city council appointments.  

Interested individuals may use this link to apply.