County Boards, Commissions and Councils
Current Board and Commission Openings
Agriculture Advisory Board
The Agricultural Advisory Board is an advisory body to the Council, Planning Commission, Hearing Examiner and county staff. The board’s continuing mandate is to support and reinforce the county’s agricultural preservation plan. The Board is made up of 11 members who meet very specific criteria (as follows), who serve 4-year terms and may not serve more than three consecutive terms. Members are appointed by the Council on recommendation of the County Executive. Contact 425-388-3141.
Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Admin Board
The AOD is required by RCW 70.96A and County Ordinance 87-061 to address issues related to alcohol and other drugs’ treatment and prevention. Board is made up of 15 members, including two from each Council District, four recovering alcohol or drug abusers, a minority representative, and no more than 4 elected or appointed county or city officials. Law enforcement, medical profession and education representatives are encouraged. Members serve 3-year terms and may not serve more than 3 consecutive terms. Contact 425-388-7233.
Animal Advisory Board
The Animal Advisory Board was established by Council in 1997. The Board is made up of nine members, of whom six are licensed Snohomish County kennel owners and three represent a broad range of interests relating to animal issues and who reside within the county. Members serve three-year terms, and are limited to three consecutive terms. Contact 425-388-3505.
Arts Commission
This commission was created by the Snohomish County Council in July 2004 to 1) advocate for the arts as a part of Snohomish County’s culture; 2) recommend an annual arts program; 3) recommend criteria for selection of any artist or art work to be funded through the arts program; 4) provide reports on recommended acquisitions of artwork; 5) recommend the public site(s) for installation or performance of public art; 6) advise on maintenance, conservation, etc.; 7)make funding recommendations for specific works of art; 8) seek private or public donations and grants for the arts program; and 9) provide an annual written report describing the commission’s activities and the arts program. It is made up of seven members, one from each Council district, and two, at-large members who may reside anywhere in the county. Each member has an alternate. After the initial appointments, members serve 4-year terms. Contact: Wendy Becker at 425-388-3186 or Wendy Becker.
Board of Equalization
The Board of Equalization is made up of five members who serve three-year terms and are limited to three consecutive full terms. No more than two board members may reside in the same Council district. Board members must have knowledge of property values, and may not be an elected official or employed by an elected official. Board members are appointed by Council on the recommendation from the Executive. Contact 425-388-3445.
Boundary Review Board
The state Boundary Review Board for Snohomish County reviews and rules on proposed annexations and incorporations for cities and /or special purpose districts (water, sewer districts, etc.). The board consists of five citizen volunteers who are appointed by the Governor (two appointments), local cities (one appointment), the county (one appointment), and local special purpose districts (one appointment).
Central Ferry (Edmonds) Advisory Committee
RCW 47.60.310 created local ferry advisory committees to provide local perspectives and recommendations to the Washington State Department of Transportation. Applicants should have an active interest in issues pertaining to ferry service; ferry commuters or people with businesses impacted by ferry terminal locations and schedules are especially valuable committee members. Each committee is made up of three persons who must be Snohomish County residents and who serve four-year terms. “Not more than two members of any terminal-area committee may be from the same political party at the time of their appointment, and in a county having more than one committee; the overall party representation shall be as nearly equal as possible.” Local committees meet quarterly within their own regions; each committee chair also serves on a state executive committee, which meets monthly with state officials. Committee members are appointed by Council on recommendation of the Executive. Contact 425-388-3879.
Charter Review Commission
In the November, 2005 General Election, the voters of Snohomish County elected a fifteen person Charter Review Commission that was tasked with reviewing the Snohomish County Charter to determine its adequacy and suitability to the needs of the County. The Charter Review Commission members served an unpaid one-year term beginning January 1, 2006 and undertook the arduous task of proposing amendments to the County's Home Rule Charter.
Children’s Commission
SSC 2.410 created the Children's Commission, "which shall serve as advisors on issues of health, safety and social services for infants, young children and youth in the community." The commission advises the Executive and Human Services department staff on matters related the administration and enhancement of children's programs. The Board is made up of 25 members, at least two of whom are youth under the age of 18. Three members shall be appointed from each council district, with the remaining 10 at-large appointments from anywhere in the county. Commissioners serve 4-year terms, except for youth commissioners, who serve 1-year terms. Commissioners may not serve more than 3 consecutive terms. The County Council may appoint an ex-officio member. Contact 425-388-7227.
Civil Service Commission
RCW 41.14 created the Civil Service Commission “to establish a merit system of employment for county deputy sheriffs and other employees of the office of county sheriff, thereby raising the standards and efficiency of such offices and law enforcement in general.” It is made up of three persons who serve six-year terms. Commissioners must have been residents of Snohomish County for at least two years, may not be county employees or public officials, and no more than two can be from the same political party. Contact 425-388-3600.
Community Services Advisory Council
The Community Services Advisory Council was established by the County Council in 1986 to advise the county “on all matters relating to the causes of poverty and to a reduction in the effects of poverty.” The Council is made up of at least 12 but no more than 24 members, including at least two from each Council district, and equal representation among the following groups: Community/Private Sector, Low-Income Representatives, and Public Elected Officials. Members serve 4-year terms and may not serve more than two consecutive terms. Council members are appointed by the County Council on recommendation of the Executive. Contact 425-388-7244.
Conservation Futures Program Advisory Board
The Board makes annual recommendations to the Council for projects to be funded as part of the Conservation Futures program, and develop strategic, long-range plans for the program. Recommendations from the board are forwarded to the County Executive for transmittal to the County Council for final action. The Board consists of the County Executive (or designee); two members of County Council; one elected official selected by all cities & towns whose population base, independently, is 10,000 or greater; one elected official selected by all cities and towns whose population base, independently, is less than 10,000; and two members representing citizens of Snohomish County. Board members serve 4-year terms. Contact 425-388-6616.
Council On Aging
SCC 2.450 authorizes the Human Services Department to administer and coordinate county programs and projects relating to human services in accordance with county, state and federal laws or regulations. The Council is made up of no more than 30 members, who serve three-year terms. Members are appointed by the County Council on recommendation of the Executive. Contact 425-388-7377.
Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board
SCC 2.400.030 authorizes the Human Services department to administer and coordinate county programs and projects relating to human services in accordance with county, state and federal laws or regulations. DSHS, through its division of developmental disabilities, has a program to provide child development services, community access services, individual supported employment, grant-supported employment, and specialized industries employment. The Board is made up of 15 members, who serve 3-year terms and may not serve more than three consecutive terms. Board members are appointed by the County Council on recommendation of the Executive. Contact 425-388-7208.
Ethics Commission
SCC 2.50 created the Ethics Commission to receive complaints of ethics violations and otherwise administer the county’s Code of Ethics. The commission is made up of five members who serve three-year terms and may not serve more than two consecutive full terms. “No member of the commission, during his or her tenure, shall: a) hold or be a candidate for elective office; b) be an officer of any political party or political committee; c) make contributions to, or permit his or her name to be used in support of, or in opposition to, any candidate for county office; d) lobby or employ or assist a lobbyist.” Members are appointed by the Council on recommendation of the County Executive. Contact 425-388-3494.
Evergreen State Fair Advisory Board
The Fair Board is composed of eleven members, five representing the Council district in which they reside, and six at-large members who may live anywhere in the county. The board meets at least monthly and represents a broad range of interests. It was created to advise, consult and assist the fair manager in the operation and maintenance of the Evergreen State Fair. Members serve four-year terms and are limited to three consecutive full terms. Contact 425-388-6704.
Historic Preservation Commission
Snohomish County values its historic buildings, sites, structures and objects. Through the Historic Preservation Commission, Snohomish County seeks to identify, preserve and protect significant historic and archaeological properties that celebrates the rich history of Snohomish County. The Historic Preservation Commission offers a number of services to support preservation efforts of these irreplaceable county assets. For more information contact Wendy Becker at 425-388-3186 or Wendy Becker.
Housing Authority Board Of Commissions
The Housing Authority Board is made up of six members, at least one of whom must be assisted by a HUD-supported housing program. Commissioners serve five-year terms and are limited to three consecutive full terms. A representative of each Council district is not specifically required. Commission members are appointed by the County Council on recommendation of the Executive. Contact 425-290-8499.
Human Rights Commission
The Snohomish County Human Rights Commission serves as an advisory body to the County Executive, County Council, Office of Human Rights and other county officers and agencies in matters concerning Human Rights. The commission consists of seven members appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council. Members of the commission shall serve without compensation. For further information about the commision's activities, please contact Andrea Pettit at (425) 388-7308, Snohomish County Human Resources Department.
Lake Stevens Park & Recreation Area Government Advisory Board
On March 12, 2002, voters in the Lake Stevens area established the Lake Stevens Park and Recreation Service Area. That area’s boundaries are the same as the Lake Stevens School District. A subsequent interlocal agreement between the city and county establishes the Lake Stevens Park and Recreation Service Area Governing Advisory Board. That board shall be made up of four members, three appointed by the county from persons living in unincorporated Snohomish County and one appointed by the City of Lake Stevens from persons living within the city limits. Board members serve two-year terms, and may not serve more than three consecutive terms. Board members are appointed by the County Council on recommendation of the Executive. Contact 425-388-6621.
Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters Disability Boards
The LEOFF Disability Board was created pursuant to RCW 41.26.110 to establish uniform methods of procedure for the conduct of the business of the Snohomish County Disability Board as established by state law. It is comprised of five members, one representing the legislative body of the county; one representing the legislative body of the cities and towns, one representing fire fighters, one representing law enforcement officers, and one member at large who is selected by the other board members. Board members serve two-year terms and are not limited to the number of terms. Contact Lynn Trowbridge at 425-388-3600.
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory committee was established to review applications for funding from lodging taxes collected by the county and to make recommendations to the County Council on those applications and related lodging tax issues. The Board is made up of 6 members. The chair is a County Council member, two members represent lodging establishments, two members represent agencies or activities eligible for lodging tax funding, and one is an ex officio (non-voting) representative of a Snohomish County city. Committee members are appointed by the Council. Contact 425-388-3494.
Marine Resources Advisory Committee
The Snohomish County Marine Resources Advisory Committee (MRC) is authorized by Chapter 2.800 SCC and is one of seven advisory committees participating in the Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Initiative. In 1997, U.S. Senator Patty Murray and U.S. Congressman Jack Metcalf recognized the need to protect the marine waters of Washington State and with that strong bipartisan alliance Congress authorized the Initiative in 1998. The purpose of the MRC is to address local marine issues and recommend remedial actions to the council, executive and, where requested by the council or executive, to other local governmental entities and tribes. When making recommendations the MRC shall be guided by sound science. The MCR is made up of no more than 11 members with balanced representation from individuals with relevant experience or scientific experience representing: a) local governments; b) affected economic interests; c) recreational, conservation or environmental interests; and d) local tribal governments. Terms shall be three years in length. The Committee will sunset on the same date as Chapter 2.800 SCC. Contact Kathleen Herrmann at 425-388-6414.
Mental Health Advisory Board
The Mental Health Advisory Board was created to “review and evaluate the mental health needs, services and facilities” and make appropriate recommendations to the Council through the Executive regarding county programs and services. Membership is made up of no less than nine nor more than 15 members, representative of the community and including consumer and minority representation. No more than four elected or appointed city officials may serve on the board at the same time. Members serve 3-year terms and may not serve more than three consecutive terms. Board members are appointed by the County Council on recommendation of the Executive. Contact 425-388-7209.
North Central (Mukilteo) Ferry Advisory Commission
RCW 47.60.310 created local ferry advisory committees to provide local perspectives and recommendations to the Washington State Department of Transportation. Applicants should have an active interest in issues pertaining to ferry service; ferry commuters or people with businesses impacted by ferry terminal locations and schedules are especially valuable committee members. Each committee is made up of three persons who must be Snohomish County residents and who serve four-year terms. “Not more than two members of any terminal-area committee may be from the same political party at the time of their appointment, and in a county having more than one committee; the overall party representation shall be as nearly equal as possible.” Local committees meet quarterly within their own regions; each committee chair also serves on a state executive committee, which meets twice yearly with state officials. Contact 425-388-3494.
Northsound Mental Health Admin Advisory Board
The state Legislature enacted SSB 5400 in 1989, which allows interested counties to form a regional support network for certain mental health services. The five counties of northwestern Washington (Island, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish and Whatcom) comprise the North Sound Mental Health Administration (formerly Regional Support Network). The NSMHA advisory board advocates for the interests of mentally ill persons and their families, and provides recommendations to the NSMHA board of directors, consisting of elected officials from the five counties. The advisory board is comprised of 21 members, eight from Snohomish County. Board members serve three-year terms and are appointed by Council on recommendation of the County Executive. Contact 425-388-7209.
Noxious Weed Control Board
The mission of the Snohomish County Noxious Weed Control Board is to serve as responsible stewards of Snohomish County by protecting and preserving the land and resources from the degrading impact of noxious weeds. RCW 17.10 and SCC 3.42 created the Noxious Weed Board to adopt rules and regulations necessary for an effective noxious weed control or eradication program. It is made up of five members, each of whom represents a specific geographic Weed Control District. Four members must be from commercial agriculture. Nominations to the board must be accompanied by signatures of 10 registered voters living within the weed control district. Nominees are recommended by the County Executive and confirmed by Council pursuant to SCC 2.03.040. Board members serve four-year terms. Contact 360-435-7830 or 425-388-7500 or E-mail sonny.gohrman@snoco.org.
Paine Field Community Council
The Paine Field Community Council was formed as a result of the County Commissioners adopting the Paine Field Mediated Role Determination in 1979. A primary purpose of the Community Council is to review, assess, and make recommendations to the Airport Director and/or affected governmental entities with regard to the Airport, especially items impacting the spirit and letter of the mediated agreement.
The Paine Field Community Council includes ten voting members comprised of four representatives of neighborhoods, two pilots affiliated with Paine Field, two representatives of fixed-based operators (FBOs) providing aviation services at Paine Field, and two off-Airport business representatives. Alternates for voting member are also appointed. In addition, ex-officio members represent agencies, jurisdictions and organizations affected by the Airport.
The Community Council meets quarterly and reviews current issues relating to the Airport and provides input to the Airport Director and Staff. Council members receive no compensation for their efforts. They are expected to provide effective liaison with their constituents. A member job description, application and Community Council by-laws are available at the Airport Office, or online at Paine Field Community Council.
Anyone interested in obtaining further information on the Paine Field Community Council should contact Bruce Goetz, Superintendent of Operations, at the Airport Office, 425-388-5110.
Parks Advisory Board
SCC 2.16.030 created the Parks Advisory Board to assist the parks department “in reviewing and recommending policies relating to parks, playgrounds or other recreational facilities.” The board is made up of 11 members, five residing within and representing their Council districts, and six at-large who may reside anywhere within the county. The Board’s composition shall be representative of a broad range of interests. Board members serve four-year terms. Board members are appointed by the County Council on recommendation of the Executive. Contact 425-388-6602.
Performance Audit Committee
The Performance Audit Committee is made up of eight members, consisting of the County Auditor and seven appointed members. Of those seven, two are appointed by the Executive and five are appointed by Council: one by each Councilmember and confirmed by Council so that each Council district is represented by at least one committee member. Committee members must be Snohomish County residents and have backgrounds that demonstrate knowledge or experience that would be beneficial in carrying out the tasks of the committee. Contact 425-388-3494.
Pilchuck Development Corporation Board Of Directors
The Pilchuck Development Corporation was chartered by Snohomish County to promote local economic development efforts by issuing non-recourse industrial revenue bonds to finance eligible manufacturing facilities within the county. Its board of directors is made up of seven members, who serve staggered six-year terms. Contact 425-388-3219.
Planning Commission
The Snohomish County Planning Commission is comprised of eleven volunteers who review proposed comprehensive plans and land use regulations on behalf of the citizens of Snohomish County.
The Planning Commission conducts public hearings concerning land use and zoning issues and makes recommendations to the County Council about how these land use issues should be resolved. Planning Commissioners are not policy makers or legislators and they do not work for the County. Their role is to represent the perspective of local citizens as a counter-balance to the technical perspective of a professional planning and engineering staff in a policy advisory capacity to the County Council. Commissioners listen to complex testimony and strive to find an appropriate balance between competing goals and values before submitting their recommendations to the County Council.
Planning Commission public hearings also give the public and property owners an opportunity to raise issues about proposed land use actions and make recommendations for how these issues should be resolved. The Planning Commission’s regularly scheduled meeting day is the fourth Tuesday of every month.
Public Facilities District Board Of Directors
The Public Facilities District was chartered by Snohomish County to oversee potential acquisition, construction, operation and financing of one or more regional centers and related parking as allowed for in RCW 36.100. The board is made up of five members appointed by Council “to reflect the interests of cities and towns in the county, as well as unincorporated areas of the county.” Board members serve four-year terms, with initial appointments staggered so that two of the initial five members served two-year terms. Contact 425-388-3862.
Salary Commission
The Snohomish County Citizens' Commission on Salaries of Elected Officials is an independent commission that meets every two years to fix the salaries of the County Council, Executive, Assessor, Auditor, Clerk, Prosecuting Attorney, Sheriff and Treasurer. In 2006, the voters of Snohomish County approved an amendment to the Snohomish County Charter that requires the recommendations of the Commission to become law without further action by the County Council or Executive subject to referendum as provided in SCC 2.105.080 and Charter section 6.120. The Commission is made up of ten members, nominated by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council. Six of the members of the Commission are selected by lot by the County Auditor from among all registered voters in Snohomish County. The remaining four members are required to have experience in the field of personnel management and come from four sectors: business, professional personnel management, legal profession and organized labor. Contact Brian Parry with the Executive's Office.