The Clark County Council is seeking applicants for four volunteer positions on the Solid Waste Advisory Commission. Applicants who are appointed by the council will serve three-year terms. 

Applications from Clark County residents are being accepted for the following positions:

• Small cities and towns: Representative shall be a member of one of the city or town councils, or a resident who lives or works in those jurisdictions (cities other than Vancouver). May be recommended by the city or town councils. Term begins immediately upon appointment.
• At-large: Representative shall provide input from the perspective of the county as a whole. Term begins Oct. 1, 2024.
• Business: Representative shall own or be employed by a local business in Clark County. Term begins Oct. 1, 2024.
• Southeast county: Representative shall reside south of 179th Street and east of state Highway 503, or the extensions thereof. Term begins Oct. 1, 2024.

The Solid Waste Advisory Commission holds quarterly meetings at 6 pm on the first Thursday of February, May, August, and November. Special meetings maybe scheduled as needed. Meetings are currently held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and virtual options.

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. The advisory commission also provides feedback to staff during the update process for the county’s Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan, which is currently underway. 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. 

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 it serves. 

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 position 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 Wednesday, July 31, 2024. 

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