Redmond mayor outlines how residents can join boards, run for council and what to expect

Redmond Mayor Angela Birney urged residents Wednesday to take part in city government by joining boards and commissions, serving on advisory committees or running for City Council, and she outlined eligibility, application timing and how commissions feed policy recommendations to the council.

Birney, speaking at Redmond City Council Chambers, said many advisory groups meet monthly or seasonally and that members advise staff and the council on topics ranging from parks and trails to human services and environmental sustainability. "By choosing to get involved with a board or commission or committee, community members have the opportunity to advise city staff on multiple topics," Birney said. She added that most commissions start new terms on April 1 and that term lengths typically run three to five years with a two-term limit.

The mayor emphasized practical steps for people who want to participate: apply online at redmond.gov/shareyourvoice, attend open meetings to learn the work of a commission, or contact listed staff liaisons for details. Birney said many commissions now offer hybrid attendance options to expand…