Boards and Commissions Open House to go virtual

MURPHY (September 23, 2020) While many aspects of our lives have changed, the fact remains that serving on boards and commissions is one of the most effective ways citizens can become involved in municipal government.

                “Boards and commissions play a crucial role in the decision-making process for the City Council,” says City Secretary Susie Quinn.  “The volunteers who serve on boards and commissions provide incredibly important advice to Council members. Without the advisory role that these individuals play in the process, the decision-making at City Hall would be hampered.”

                The City is now accepting applications from citizens who want to be considered for an open position on one of the boards, commissions, and committee.             

                An information-sharing and question and answer session, in essence a virtual Open House, is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 1 to provide details on how the process works, the specific role of each board, commission or committee, and what it takes to be considered for appointment.

                The virtual Open House is offered to anyone wishing to participate. It will begin at 6 p.m. and is scheduled for an hour. To participate, interested individuals should point their browser to https://www.accelevents.com/e/MurphyBoardsCommissionsOpenHouse.

“The virtual Open House will allow residents who have an interest in placing their names in consideration for an appointment to learn what the various advisory bodies are all about,” she said.  “Staff members who provide support to these boards and commissions will be online during the virtual Open House session to answer questions and provide information.”

                Attending the virtual Boards and Commissions Open House is not a requirement to apply for a position.  Interested individuals may apply online from now until Saturday, Oct. 31 for consideration.   Applicants can do so by visiting https://murphytx.civicweb.net/Portal/CitizenEngagement.aspx.

A panel consisting of three City Councilmembers will conduct interviews with potential board and commission volunteers in November, and appointments will be made at a subsequent City Council meeting.

The City has eight standing boards, commissions, and committee including the Murphy Community Development Corporation; the Animal Shelter Advisory Committee; the Board of Adjustment; the Building and Fire Code Appeals Board; the Ethics Review Commission; the Municipal Development District Board; the Parks and Recreation Board; and the Planning and Zoning Commission.