City Makes Final Push in Committee Recruitment

The city of Gilroy is making a final push to recruit for open seats on several committees.

Committees, often called “commissions” or “boards,” are an integral part of city governance. They are often the front line in debating issues that directly affect the city, providing valued and expert input that affects the binding decisions of the Gilroy City Council.

Those who wish to lend their expertise to the benefit of Gilroy might find themselves welcome in one of the satellite advisory groups that are crucial to efficient governing.

The deadline for applications is May 31, and the council will interview and appoint candidates on June 6. Application details are available both on the city website and at

Here is an overview of the positions available from City Clerk Shawna Freels:

One (1) Planning Commissioner with a term ending 12/31/2011

The Planning Commission is a seven (7) member body which reviews all planning applications that surpass the criteria for consideration by the Planning Division Manager. The Planning Commission conducts the public hearing process for comprehensive planning projects and acts as a recommending body to the City Council.  The Planning Commission meets the 1st Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall.

One (1) Parks and Recreation Commissioner with a term ending 12/31/2012

The Parks and Recreation Commission is a seven (7) member body responsible for advising the Recreation Department and the City Council on matters pertaining to public parks, urban forestry and recreation in the advancement of park and recreation planning and programming, and sits as a review body during public hearing processes for parks and recreation master planning and related park planning projects.  Regular meetings are held the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall.

One (1) Library Commissioner with a term ending 12/31/2013

The Library Commission is comprised of five (5) members and serves as an advisory and liaison body to the Gilroy City Council, city staff and the City Librarian on matters concerning the Gilroy Library. The Library Commission meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.

Two (2) Building Board of Appeals Members with a terms ending  12/31/2014

The Building Board of Appeals is a five (5) member Board of four (4) qualified persons with building experience and training to address matters pertaining to building and construction, with one (1) member of the public at large. The Board hears all building appeals as set forth by the City Charter and conducts all building appeal hearings. The Board meets as needed.