As a resident of Tompkins County, you shape the community in which you live. You can do even more by serving on a County government advisory board. Advisory boards and commissions provide recommendations to the County Legislature on matters ranging from climate adaptation to arts and culture funding and offer residents the opportunity to share a citizen’s perspective with local government leaders.
This fall, Tompkins County is seeking civic-minded volunteers who represent the cultural and geographic diversity of our community to fill vacancies on several boards. More information on the available seats can be found under the Department of Planning and Sustainability NEWS at tompkinscountyny.gov/planning.
Environmental Management Council (EMC)
The EMC has been the Legislature's official citizen advisory board on local environmental issues since 1971. Monthly meeting time and location: second Thursday, 4:00 to 5:30 pm; Transit Center, 737 Willow Avenue, Ithaca.
Planning Advisory Board (PAB)
The PAB provides the Tompkins County Legislature and the Department of Planning and Sustainability with advice and counsel on comprehensive land-use planning and matters related to regional, County, and municipal planning. Monthly meeting time and location: second Tuesday, 4:00 to 5:30pm; Human Services Building, 320 W. State/MLK Jr Street, Ithaca.
Strategic Tourism Planning Board (STPB)
The STPB provides oversight and strategic direction for tourism initiatives that promote economic development and enhance the quality of life for residents of Tompkins County. Monthly meeting time and location: third Wednesday, 3:00 to 5:00 pm; Ithaca Tompkins County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 904 East Shore Drive, Ithaca.
Water Resources Council (WRC)
The WRC is charged with identifying problems, proposing priorities, and promoting the coordination of activities in the management and protection of the County's water resources. Monthly meeting time and location: third Monday, 4:15 to 6:00 pm; Transit Center, 737 Willow Avenue, Ithaca. (Meetings that conflict with federal holidays are rescheduled.)
How to Apply
Individuals interested in applying for a seat on a County Advisory Board must fill out an application and submit it to the Clerk of the Tompkins County Legislature. Applications will be reviewed by the individual advisory board with appointment by the County Legislature.
Applications can be found at http://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/legislature/advisory-board and should be submitted by Monday, September 30, 2019.
Contact: Kristin McCarthy, Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability, 607-274-5560.