Serve on a City Board or Commission

One of the great ways to get involved in the City of Fairfax is to serve on one of our many boards and commissions. There's just about something for everyone. From parks and recreation to environmental issues, our boards and commissions tackle important matters and provide valuable input to the Mayor and City Council. Unless noted otherwise, all appointments are made by Mayor and Council.

Below are some of the latest volunteer openings along with information on how to apply.

• Board of Architectural Review (one vacancy for a business representative or city resident with architectural background) — Hears requests for new construction, alteration or significant landscaping in the Historic, Transition and Architectural Control districts. Also reviews signage in the Historic and Transition districts and some multi-tenant buildings and centers in the Architectural Control District.
Meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
• Board of Equalization (one vacancy for city resident who owns property in the city, effective July 2011)— Hears appeals of assessed value of real estate. Court appointed. Meets as needed.
• Commission for Women (one vacancy) — Identifies and advocates for the needs of women in the city. Promotes programs to increase awareness and provide services to the community. Open to men and women. Meets on the third Tuesday of the month.
• Community Appearance Committee (one vacancy for a city business representative, one vacancy for a city resident) — Coordinates the city’s Adopt-a-Spot program and clean-up month/day programs, in addition to commercial, residential and holiday decoration award programs. Meets on the fourth Thursday of the month.
• Health Systems Agency for Northern Virginia (one vacancy) — Plans for the health-care needs of the area and works with other regional groups on health-care issues.
• Historic Fairfax City, Inc. (one vacancy) — A non profit organization concerned with promoting interest in and preserving the city’s history. Administers the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center. Meets on the second Wednesday of the month.
• Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (one vacancy) — Studies and makes recommendations to the City Council on park and recreation facilities and programs. Meets on the second Thursday of the month.
• Planning Commission (two vacancies) — Serves in an advisory capacity to the city council and plans for the future development of the city. Prepares and reviews the Comprehensive Plan; reviews subdivision and site plan submission; and makes recommendations to city council on Capital Improvement Program, rezonings and text amendments. Meets on the second and fourth Monday of the month.

Applications will be considered at an upcoming City Council meeting following submission.

Unless otherwise noted, city residency is required (at least one year living in the city and registered to vote in the city). Submit letters of interest and résumé (if available) to City Clerk Melanie Burrell (melanie.burrell@fairfaxva.gov).

Vacancies are subject to change. Information: 703-385-7935.