The City of Janesville has several upcoming vacancies for board, commission, and committee volunteer positions.
Serving on a board, commission, or committee can be a rewarding experience for community service-minded residents. Members of boards, commissions, and committees provide an invaluable service to our City. They advise the City Council on a variety of subjects by making recommendations on important policy matters. The detailed studies and advice of boards, commissions, and committees are often catalysts for innovative programs and improved services. Making local government effective, efficient, and responsive is everybody's responsibility, so please consider applying to serve on a City of Janesville board, commission, or committee.
Applications must be received by Sunday, March 8, to be considered for these openings. The City of Janesville has vacancies on the following boards, commissions, and committees:
Advisory Committee on Appointments – 1 Opening
The committee recommends qualified residents for appointment to the City’s boards, commissions, and committees. Members review applications, evaluate qualifications, and support a fair appointment process that reflects the needs of the Janesville community.
Alcohol License Advisory Committee – 2 Openings
The committee advises the City Council on liquor and related license applications, renewals, and policy matters. Committee members review applications, assess compliance with state and local regulations, and consider public safety, neighborhood impacts, and ordinance criteria.
Board of Review – 2 Openings
The board annually holds a formal public hearing to review property owners' objections regarding property assessments. The board listens to testimony from the Assessor's Office and the property owner to determine if adjustments to property assessments are appropriate.
Community Development Authority (CDA) – 2 Openings
The CDA oversees the City’s Rental Assistance Program and guides the use of federal housing and community development funds, including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME programs. CDA members help shape housing improvement initiatives, homeownership programs, and neighborhood redevelopment efforts that support low- and moderate-income residents.
Downtown Business Improvement District Board – 1 Opening
The board provides leadership and guidance to support the revitalization and management of the downtown area within the BID boundaries.
Historic Commission – 1 Opening
The commission reviews National Register nominations, promotes awareness of historic preservation, and advises the City Council on construction, alteration, or demolition within historic districts. Commissioners help establish guidelines, develop criteria, and support projects that protect the City’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Library Board of Trustees – 1 Opening
The board sets policy for the Hedberg Public Library, prepares its budget for City Council approval, and provides oversight for the Library Director. Members help guide programs, services, and strategic planning to meet the needs of the community.
Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee – 2 Openings
The committee advises the Parks and Recreation Division on the planning, development, operation, maintenance, and promotion of the City’s parks, facilities, and programs. Committee members provide input based on community needs, volunteer at events, and help enhance the quality of life through recreation.
Plan Commission – 1 Opening
The commission reviews planning, zoning, and development matters referred by the City Council and prepares the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Commissioners help balance community needs, interpret standards and ordinances, and guide the physical development of Janesville.
Police & Fire Commission – 1 Opening
The commission is responsible for hiring the Police and Fire Chiefs, approving subordinate appointments, and reviewing disciplinary matters. Commissioners provide oversight, apply sound judgment, and ensure fairness and integrity in the City’s public safety leadership.
Sustainable Janesville Committee – 1 Opening
The committee advises the City Council and Administration on environmental sustainability issues. Members gather public input, research best practices, evaluate potential initiatives, and provide recommendations to promote sustainable policies and programs.
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) – 1 Opening
The board reviews requests to vary or modify standards in the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Members evaluate applications, consider facts and ordinance requirements, and make impartial decisions that support orderly development and the community’s long-term planning goals.
Eligibility to Serve
To be eligible for appointment to a committee, individuals must have an interest or knowledge in the committee’s subject matter and be able to meet at the committee’s usual meeting time. Some committees require members to be residents of the City of Janesville. Committee residency requirements can be found at janesvillewi.gov/residency.
How to Volunteer
Individuals interested in volunteering for a committee must complete an application form. Prospective applicants may complete an online form or request a paper application from Assistant to the City Manager Nick Faust at faustn@ci.janesville.wi.us or (608) 755-3103. Applications must be received by Sunday, March 8, to be considered for these openings.
Please contact Assistant to the City Manager Nick Faust with any questions at faustn@ci.janesville.wi.us or (608) 755-3103.
