The City of Tacoma’s Human Services Commission has four openings for residents in Council Districts No. 5 (South and South End) and No. 3 (Central Tacoma). The terms for these positions begin immediately, with two positions completing existing terms and expiring April 30, 2010 and two terms expiring April 30, 2012.

The Human Services Commission is comprised of 15 members, and it advises the City Council on issues related to the City’s Human Services Strategic Plan by reviewing funding applications and recommending to Council the funding of human services programs using federal and City funds. The commission also investigates and reports to Council on human services issues facing the City.

The Human Services Commission meets at 6 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month in room 1444 of the Tacoma Municipal Building, 747 Market St. During even numbered years (e.g. 2010), members recommend funding allocations for human services programs. Members spend approximately 40 additional hours during both January-March and September-October of these years, reading applications, hearing oral presentations, rating applications and developing recommendations to Council.

Citizens may obtain a map of Council Districts from the City Clerk’s Office or view it at cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?nid=56. To apply, contact Cindy Leingang, Mayor’s Office, 747 Market Street, Room 1200, Tacoma, WA 98402, (253) 594-7848, or visit http://www.cityoftacoma.org/cbcapplication . To ensure consideration, applications are due no later than Jan. 8, 2010.