As residents of Newport, we are all deeply connected to the decisions made by our city’s municipal commissions. These commissions, though often working behind the scenes, play a powerful role in shaping our daily lives. From zoning and parks to housing and sustainability, they influence decisions that directly impact our neighborhoods, the schools our children attend, the parks where we spend our free time, the accessibility of our city for residents and visitors, and the local services we rely on. For this reason, the process of appointing commission members must be rooted in transparency and meaningful community engagement.
When residents are actively invited to participate in the selection of commission members—whether through open calls for applicants, public forums, or clear, transparent criteria—the commissions are more likely to reflect the diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives within our city. This diversity leads to better-informed decisions, builds public trust, and results in policies that more accurately address the real needs of our community, rather than assumptions made behind closed doors.
Our local government has a unique opportunity to model democratic values at the grassroots level. By prioritizing community engagement in appointing municipal commissions, our leaders can ensure these bodies are representative, effective, and trusted. A transparent and inclusive process isn’t simply good governance—it’s essential to fostering a healthy, connected community.
Several new and re-established commissions are currently seeking applicants. These include:
- The Standing Charter Commission – Members will review Newport’s municipal Charter and provide recommendations to the City Council on potential updates to ensure it better reflects the current needs of the community.
- The Youth Advisory Commission – This commission invites Newport’s younger residents to have a seat at the table. It consists of five students from grades 8–12, along with two adult overseers. The commission offers these young people the opportunity to voice concerns about how Council decisions impact them, learn to write resolutions, and participate in a mentorship program that pairs each participant with members of City Council.
- The Accessibility Advisory Commission – Members will offer advice and recommendations to the City Council on making Newport more accessible for all residents and visitors.
Additionally, the City is looking for volunteers to serve on the Newport Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (NCPAC). This committee will guide the city’s approach to land use, economic development, housing, transportation, open space and recreation, natural resources, energy, water, climate change, and other critical issues. The deadline for applications is January 23rd.
These commissions and committee represent the city’s commitment to democratic values and inclusivity and are crucial in addressing the evolving needs of our community.
For anyone enthusiastic about making a difference, I encourage you to consider applying. The opportunity to shape the future of our city is one we should not take lightly. For more information on how to apply, visit the City’s Talent Bank website at www.CityofNewport.com/TalentBank. To apply for the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, visit www.CityofNewport.com/NCPAC.
Let’s work together to ensure our local government is not only representative of our community but also actively engaged with it.
Steph Smyth
Newport City Councilor