CSAC: Community Services Advisory Council

The Snohomish County Community Services Advisory Council (CSAC) is the County's Community Action Council.  It is a fifteen member citizens' advisory council appointed by the County Executive and the County Council.  The CSAC is made of citizens representing three segments in the county:  five public elected officials, five low-income representatives, and five community/private sector representatives.  Members are drawn from throughout the county.

The CSAC advises the Children, Family, and Community Services Division, the County Executive, and the County Council on matters relating to poverty and its symptoms in Snohomish County in an effort to relieve them.  Members work with the Division to address specific issues in the community.  The CSAC participates in education and advocacy on behalf of the poor.

The CSAC reviews proposals for services under the Community Services Block Grant.  After rating proposals in accordance with published criteria, CSAC determines funding recommendations for the county's consideration.

CSAC Purpose:
The Snohomish County Code recognizes "the Community Services Advisory Council's purpose is to advise the County Executive and County Council, through the Snohomish County Human Services Department, on all matters relating to the causes of poverty and to a reduction in the effects of poverty."

Council Structure:

• Twelve to twenty-four appointed individuals
• Representative of the five County Council Districts
• Equal representation of public elected officials, low-income representatives, and community/private sector
• Standing Committee: Executive Committee, includes the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and two Members At-Large
• Other committees, task forces and workgroups are developed as programs develop or issues arise.  Examples are:  Public Education/Advocacy and Status of the Safety Net.
• The expectation of each council member is to attend and to participate in the monthly council meetings and to participate yearly on at least one committee or task force of interest.

CSAC meetings are held monthly on the third Tuesday of each month from Noon to 1:30PM.   Other committee or task force meetings are scheduled as the group determines.

To be considered for membership on the CSAC, request an application by calling (425) 388-7244 or 1-800-562-4367, extension 7244.

Questions?  (425) 388-7244