The Clark County Council is seeking applicants for a volunteer position on the Solid Waste Advisory Commission. The position represents the agricultural community within Clark County. The applicant must own or be employed by an agricultural entity located in Clark County.

The three-year term begins once an applicant is appointed by the council. Regular meetings are held quarterly at 6 pm on the first Thursday of February, May, August, and November.

The commission is currently meeting monthly to facilitate an update to the Solid Waste Management Plan. Monthly meetings are at 6 pm on the first Thursday of each month and are expected to continue through May 2023. Meetings are currently held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and virtual options.

The Solid Waste Management Plan is a 20-year plan that is updated every five years. The advisory commission plays a crucial role in providing feedback to staff during the update process. Once the update is completed by staff, in coordination with the advisory commission, it will be submitted for approval by the county council and the Washington State Department of Ecology.

In addition to supporting the plan update, 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.

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 the agricultural community 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, Dec. 23, 2022.

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