Leadership on Boards & Commissions

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Lee Flinn of Conservation Voters for Idaho moderating the panel of experts speaking on how to seize leadership opportunities on Boards & Commissions:

Robin Sandy, Chair of the Idaho Board of Corrections
Maryanne Jordan, Boise City Council President
Julie Pipal, Chair of the Meridian Development Corporation, Former Mgr. Office of Budget, Policy & Intergovernmental Relations at Idaho Transportation Department

  • When you serve on a state commission or board, you are partisan, you declare your party affiliation but the membership is mixed
  • When you want to be on a state commission you should have some background in the industry or area of focus.
  • To get appointed to a statewide board or commission, be active enough in your area of focus that you have the opportunity to meet the Governor. He needs to know you exist.
  • If you are and activist for a single issue you probably won't be an asset to a state board or commission because they need to know you'll be able to address and focus on a variety of issues.
  • Maryanne Jordan running through the list of Boards & Commissions within the City of Boise To apply submit a resume and letter of interest tied to a specific board or commission to the Mayor's Office
  • At the city, they don't wait until there is an opening to reach out. If you have interest in any area submit your resume to the city ahead of time to let them know to call you when opportunity arises.
  • Think about what you see where you think 'Something needs to be done." And then point the finger back to yourself and realize that it could, and should, be you to do it.
  • Many cities have youth positions on various boards and commissions open for high school students. One year commitment and unlimited opportunity.
  • Reputation and networking are key to getting appointed to Boards & Commissions. You need to be known as thoughtful, level-headed, and not obsessed with just one single issue.
  • Other factors for success: Ability to listen, willingness to learn, understand rules of procedure ala Robert's Rules of Order, public speaking experience.

 (Most other cities and counties post the openings on the main page of their website, or under the newsroom as a news release)