Members of the public have the opportunity to make history by serving on California’s first county or city commission focused on the needs of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) community.
As of today, applications are being accepted for the newly established San Mateo County Lesbian, Gay Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBT) Commission.
The Board of Supervisors on June 3 voted unanimously to create the commission to improve the quality of life and well-being of LGBTQ County residents, further the cause of inclusiveness and advocate for policies affecting the LGBTQ community.
“San Mateo County is breaking new ground with the creation of the LGBTQ Commission,” said Supervisor Dave Pine, who sponsored the resolution creating the commission. “We are seeking energetic and dynamic individuals who are eager to take on the challenge of building and defining this important new commission.”
The Commission will consist of nine voting members appointed by the Board of Supervisors. Commissioners will meet at least six times a year, develop a yearly work plan and provide recommendations to the Board of Supervisors at least once a year.
Applicants must live in San Mateo County. The County encourages residents of all ages to apply as one seat will be set aside for a youth.
The ideal candidate will possess several of the following attributes:
Have an abiding interest in furthering the equality and well-being of LGBTQ individuals
Demonstrate knowledge of LGBTQ issues affecting under-represented communities including youth, communities of color, non-English speakers, older LGBTQ adults, immigrants, physically and mentally disabled individuals and economically disadvantaged LGBTQ residents of San Mateo County
Demonstrated ability to effectively provide outreach to underserved and at-risk LGBTQ populations with the goal of achieving equality in San Mateo County
Demonstrated experience promoting programs that foster the well-being and civic participation of LGBTQ individuals in San Mateo County
Knowledge of a broad spectrum of LGBTQ community resources and the ability to leverage community contacts
Ability and willingness to work collaboratively with other members of the Commission to achieve Commission goals
Ability and willingness to devote sufficient time and resources to carry out the responsibilities of the Commission.
The deadline to apply is August 8, 2014. Applications can be obtained from Alicia Garcia, Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, 400 County Center, Redwood City, or by calling 650-363-4634.
Applications are also available on the County website at https://bnc.smcgov.org/vacancies
For information about this Commission
Contact: Honora Miller, Director of the LGBTQ Commission, 650-363-4872, hmiller@smcgov.org
For information about this release
Contact: Alicia Garcia, Deputy Clerk of the Board, 650-363-4634