Fort Collins Invites Residents to Boards and Commissions Open House November 17
Fort Collins will host an open house November 17 to recruit volunteers for the 22 boards and commissions that advise City Council on issues ranging from affordable housing and transportation to water conservation and energy policy.
The event runs from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at City Hall, 300 Laporte Avenue, giving residents an opportunity to explore how these volunteer bodies influence local government decisions on specific policy areas.
"Boards and commissions are an incredible way for residents to shape their community and impact their local government," said Davina Lau, public engagement specialist for Fort Collins. "They form an important bridge between Council and the community."
Nearly all Fort Collins boards and commissions will have openings in 2026, with applications accepted from December 1, 2025 through January 9, 2026.
Advisory Bodies Carry Different Decision-Making Powers
Fort Collins boards and commissions are established under the City Charter, which allows City Council to create appointive bodies by ordinance, according to the Fort Collins Charter. The legal distinction between boards and commissions determines their level of authority.
Boards typically serve in advisory capacities, providing recommendations to City Council on policy matters within their subject areas. Commissions hold decision-making powers within their areas of expertise, such as building review or historic preservation, according to the City Clerk's office.
The city maintains 22 active boards and commissions covering policy areas including affordable housing, transportation planning, water management, energy policy and environmental services.
Recent examples demonstrate the influence these bodies hold. The Affordable Housing Board's recommendations have led to updates in affordable housing incentive programs for developers. The Transportation Board's proposals have resulted in expanded bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. The Water Board has shaped water conservation initiatives and efficiency measures, while the Environmental Services Advisory Board has advanced renewable energy adoption policies.
Application Process Limits Appointees to Single Board
Community members may apply for up to three boards or commissions, submitting a separate application for each. However, applicants selected for appointment will serve on only one board or commission.
Fort Collins City Charter authorizes City Council to make final appointment decisions based on applicants' expertise, experience and ability to represent diverse community perspectives.
Eligibility requires applicants to reside within the Fort Collins Growth Management Area throughout their term. The GMA includes areas surrounding the city considered for future development and subject to specific land-use regulations.
Terms range from two to four years depending on the specific board or commission. Board members typically meet monthly or bi-monthly, with time commitments of several hours per month including meeting attendance, material review and policy guidance work.
The open house provides an opportunity for prospective volunteers to speak directly with current board and commission members about meeting schedules, responsibilities and the application process before the December 1 application period opens.
Additional information about Fort Collins boards and commissions and the recruitment process is available at fcgov.com/boards. Questions can be directed to Davina Lau at 970-416-2525 or [email protected].