The Boulder Urban Renewal Authority on Dec. 18 discussed recruitment for an expanded commission and key dates for applicants. Jennifer, a city staff member, said an optional open house is scheduled for Jan. 5 and "applications are open until, January 25," with interviews planned in early February and appointments expected around March 5 by the city council.

Board members said BURA will expand to as many as 13 members and encouraged outreach to partners, including the chamber of commerce, to recruit candidates with relevant expertise. A member said BURA will seek people with backgrounds in "urban planning, urban design, economic development" and that public finance or investment experience would be valuable.

Staff clarified eligibility and conflict-of-interest rules. Jennifer said applicants do not need to be City of Boulder residents but must have a tie to Boulder — for example, working in the city or owning property there — and that ownership of property in an urban renewal area must be disclosed and may require recusal from votes where a conflict exists. A staff speaker explained that BURA is an independent entity, so city residency requirements for some city boards do not apply to BURA.

Members discussed meeting logistics and outreach methods. The board noted meetings could be scheduled monthly and need not have a standing set time; meetings can be canceled if there is no business. Staff offered to circulate an email with a shareable link and to provide a forwarded version suitable for distribution.

The authority did not take formal action on recruitment during the meeting. Interested applicants were directed to the open house and the application deadline; staff will schedule interviews in early February and forward recommended appointments to the City Council for action in March.