Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington is encouraging residents to take part in local decision-making by applying for openings on a number of city boards and commissions. Officials say these volunteer roles give community members a meaningful way to contribute to public policy discussions and help guide initiatives that shape Bloomington’s future.
A wide range of boards currently have seats available, covering topics from the arts and environmental protection to housing, public safety, and community development. One open position is available on the Bloomington Arts Commission, which promotes public appreciation and participation in the arts.
Another vacancy exists on the Bloomington/Monroe County Human Rights Commission, which enforces the city’s Human Rights Ordinance while also educating residents about civil rights protections and responsibilities.
The city is also seeking applicants for the Board of Housing Quality Appeals, which reviews decisions related to housing code enforcement, and the Board of Public Safety, the body responsible for oversight of the city’s police and fire departments.
Two seats are open on the Citizens Advisory Committee that reviews Community Development Block Grant funding and recommends how those federal dollars should support local development projects.
Several community-focused commissions are also looking for members. Vacancies exist on the Commission on Aging, the Commission on Sustainability and Resilience, the Commission on the Status of Children and Youth, and the Commission on the Status of Women.
Additional openings include positions on the Community Advisory on Public Safety Commission, Environmental Commission, Tree Commission, and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration Commission.
Most positions require applicants to live within Bloomington, although some commissions also allow residents of Monroe County or nearby communities to participate. Applicants are encouraged to attend a meeting of the board or commission they are interested in before applying in order to better understand its work.
Appointments are made by either Mayor Kerry Thomson or the Bloomington Common Council. Information about vacancies and applications is available on the city’s online boards and commissions portal.
