To paraphrase a famous line: Now is the time to ask not what your city can do for you, but what you can do for your city.
As we reported Tuesday, Jefferson City has vacancies in many of its 24 volunteer boards and commissions, and the city is accepting applications.
Two openings exist on the Jefferson City Animal Shelter Advisory Committee, three on the Cemetery Resources Board, two on the Environmental Quality Commission, one on the Facade Improvement Committee, one on the Historic Preservation Commission, one on the Planning & Zoning Commission, and two on the Public Transit Advisory Committee.
Volunteer committees provide valuable service to government at all levels.
City boards and commissions are composed of hundreds of volunteers who provide their knowledge and experience to research issues, identify problems and recommend solutions. Residents who serve on the panels often are the ones who end up running for City Council or other elected positions.
Work done by these volunteer panels saves taxpayer money by providing services the city otherwise would have to pay for.
We urge Jefferson City residents to consider their talents and how they might fit into one of the open positions.
Your contribution of time and expertise won't just benefit the city, it also will make you more knowledgeable and in tune with city government.
More information about specific boards, commissions and committees - as well as a volunteer profile form - can be found at jeffersoncitymo.gov/meetings_and_agendas/citizen_boards_commissions_and_committees.php.
News Tribune