The City of Newport is inviting civic-minded residents to apply for positions on a number of its Boards and Commission, including three newly created groups aimed at shaping the future of local governance and engaging the next generation of leaders.
Created by the City Council last month, these three new volunteer groups include:
- The Standing Charter Commission – This is a seven-member volunteer board that will take a deep dive into Newport’s municipal Charter. Members will serve staggered terms and provide recommendations to the City Council on potential updates to the City’s governing Charter to better reflect the current needs of the community. Newport last convened a Charter Review Commission in 2021. As a standing body, the new commission is intended to serve as a long-term commitment to making sure the City’s foundational document stays strong and relevant.
- The Youth Advisory Commission – Newport’s younger residents deserve a seat at the table too. The new Youth Advisory Commission will be made up of 5 students from grades 8-12, with two adult members to give a voice to the City’s next generation of leaders by helping them get engaged in local government from the ground up. Youth Commissioners will serve one-year terms and will participate in a mentoring program that pairs participants with members of the City Council.
- The Academic Integration Advisory Committee – With an eye toward academic excellence, members of the AIAC will be tasked with working across disciplines and communities to develop a plan that could serve as the basis for eventual school regionalization with Newport and Middletown. The establishment of the Committee was supported by a vote of the City Council in March and calls for representatives from Parent Teacher Organizations (PTOs), public school educators as recommended by their respective bargaining units, representatives from community-based educational support programs, members from each communities’ Learn 365 teams, and other experts in educational integration.
In addition to the new commissions, the City is also looking for volunteers to serve on several existing boards, including the Affirmative Action Commission, Planning Board, Tree and Open Space Commission, and Zoning Board of Review.
All positions are strictly volunteer, but offer a great opportunity to make a real impact. Whether you’re passionate about local government, eager to help shape policy, or just looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community, simply head over to the City’s Talent Bank at www.CityofNewport.com/TalentBank to apply online or download an application.
The deadline to apply for the Charter Commission and Youth Advisory Commission is Monday, April 21st.
For more info, please contact the Mayor’s Office at (401) 845-5437 or visit the City’s website.
