by Cathy Cooney

Conservation. Historic Preservation. Planning and Zoning. Analysis of Social Services Evaluation Team. Campus and Community. Library. Public Art. Human Relations. Veteran Affairs. These are just some examples of the boards and commissions who advise city and county government on issues, services, and programs. With over 30 boards and commissions between Ames and Story County, everyone can find a good fit for their interests. Serving in this way connects people more deeply to their communities, plays a valuable part in advising governing bodies and recommending policy, and allows citizens to give back in a meaningful way.

 At both the city and county level, board and commission members apply and are appointed as volunteers to serve. City of Ames board and commission applications must be submitted by Friday, February 3, with the term typically beginning on April 1. Story County’s recruitment for many potential members runs from July through September and applications should be submitted by September 30. However, other recruitment periods occur throughout the year (such as for Veteran Affairs, which occurs earlier). Contact Story County Board of Supervisors Office for more information on boards and commissions for Story County.

On Thursday, January 26, come to Ames Public Library for “Get on Boards!”, a panel discussion on this very topic. During the discussion, you’ll hear about our panelists’ experiences on their respective boards and commissions, what they’re excited about and have accomplished, and have the opportunity to get your questions answered. Included on our panel are Christine Laumer (Story County Conservation Board), Matthew Neubauer (Story County Board of Adjustment), Jon Christy (Ames Public Library Board of Trustees), Susan Minks (City of Ames Historic Preservation Commission), and Rachel Cramer (City of Ames Parks & Recreation Commission). Representatives from the City Clerk’s office and Story County External Operations/County Services office will also be available to answer questions. The program begins at 7 pm in Ames Public Library’s Farwell T. Brown Auditorium, and if you would prefer to attend virtually, a Zoom link is available on our online calendar (www.amespl.org/events). We hope you’ll join us to learn all about how to get on boards (and commissions)!