Citizen Boards and Commissions

Citizen boards, commissions and committees advise the Village Board of Trustees. When vacancies occur on these advisory bodies, the Citizen Involvement Commission interviews residents who have volunteered to serve by filling out application forms. The Commission then makes recommendations to the Village President, who makes the formal appointments with the consent of the Board of Trustees.

Most meetings are held at Village Hall, 123 Madison St., with the exception of the Disability Access Commission, which meets at the Main Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St. Meeting agendas and minutes are posted on the related board, commission and committee web pages.

Citizen involvement enhances and promotes Oak Park's character and values. Advisory boards, commissions and committees serve as additional resources and support to the Village Board of Trustees and Village staff.

How to Apply

We encourage all community members – especially those from historically underrepresented groups – to consider getting involved. Your lived experience, voice, and insight matter.

  1. Visit www.oak-park.us/volunteer to learn more about the various boards, commissions and committees. Identify two or three that align with your interests and values.
  2. Attend at least one meeting of each group you are considering. Reach out to the commission chair to ask questions and gain deeper insight.
  3. Complete the application and include a resume or summary that highlights your work, education, volunteerism, and life experiences – formal or informal – that you believe would contribute to civic engagement.
  4. Submit these materials either by:
    • U.S. Mail: Village Clerk Village of Oak Park 123 Madison St. Oak Park, IL 60302
    • E-mail: clerk@oak-park.us

What to Expect After Applying

  • The Village Clerk’s office will review your application and contact you.
  • You will be invited to a group conversation with the Citizen Involvement Commission (CIC), which supports inclusive and thoughtful volunteer placements.
  • The CIC will consider your application in relation to current openings, the needs of each board or commission, and the goal of ensuring representative and effective membership.
  • Based on your skills, interests, lived experience, and perspectives, the CIC may:
    • Recommend you for an appointment
    • Hold your application for a future opportunity, or
    • Let you know if a match cannot be made at this time.
  • Recommendations from the CIC are submitted to the Village President and Board of Trustees for final approval.
  • You will be informed of the date your appointment is scheduled for a Board vote. You are warmly invited to attend this public meeting, though attendance is optional.

 

If You are Appointed

  • The Clerk’s office will contact you with confirmation.
  • You will be asked to sign and return a Performance Pledge before beginning your service.

 

If Your Appointment is on Hold

  • Your application will remain active for up to 12 months.
  • After 12 months, you are welcome to and encouraged to reapply.

 

For the most current information on vacancies and volunteering, call 708.358.5670 or email clerk@oak-park.us.

Citizen Commissions:

Contact

clerk@oak-park.us
708.358.5672

Boards and Commisions Information & Members

 

Useful Links

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