The Clark County Council is seeking applicants for two volunteer positions on the Solid Waste Advisory Commission. One position represents north Clark County, and the other represents the county at-large.

The three-year terms begin in April. Meetings are held quarterly at 6 pm on the first Thursday of the months of February, May, August and November. Meetings are currently held virtually.

The commission advises the county council and staff on solid waste issues and planning for recycling, garbage collection, landfills, transfer stations and waste-reduction programs. In 2021, the Clark County Solid Waste Management Plan will be updated by staff in coordination with the advisory commission and then submitted for approval by the county council and the Washington State Department of Ecology.

The 20-year plan is updated every five years and is due for a major revision. The planned 2020 update was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The advisory commission plays a crucial role in providing feedback to staff during the update process and may move to monthly meetings. The meetings would be at 6 pm on the first Thursday of each month. Commission members will have an impact on the solid waste system for the next 20 years.

Residents with a passion for waste reduction, education and outreach experience, or experience with multifamily housing are encouraged to apply. As Clark County is a growing and diverse community with many languages and backgrounds, the county is also looking for people who can bring ethnic, cultural, social, and geographic diversity to the group. The commission is committed to inclusiveness and outreach to all Clark County residents to ensure the Solid Waste Advisory Commission reflects the community we serve.

Candidates with knowledge, ability and experience working with a broad range of individuals and communities with diverse racial, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds are also encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or by email at michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

The letter of interest should include:

• How you can represent the interests of Clark County at-large or north Clark County on the commission
• Your personal or professional experience
• Your vision for the future of solid waste management in Clark County

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, April 23, 2021.

Visit the Solid Waste Advisory Commission website for more information or email SWAC@clark.wa.gov.