Bellevue-area residents can apply for one of two openings on the King County Civil Rights Commission. Five positions are open, including District 6, represented by Councilmember Jane Hague (whose district includes Bellevue, Mercer Island, Redmond and Kirkland) and District 9 represented by Councilmember Reagan Dunn (whose district includes Bellevue, Maple Valley, Renton, Newcastle, Covington, and Kent).

Applicants should have an interest in public service and raising community awareness and involvement in civil rights issues. If selected and confirmed by the King County Council, commissioners serve three-year terms.

The Civil Rights Commission advises the County Executive and County Council on matters related to the county’s civil rights programs and on human and civil rights issues. This includes reviewing and reporting on the effectiveness and progress of the county’s affirmative action, non-discrimination enforcement, and minority/women business utilization programs, as well as educating the community about preventing and eliminating discrimination.

Commission members must reside within King County. If confirmed by the County Council, commissioners serve without pay. Residents from diverse ethnic and protected group backgrounds, including people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

All Commission members are bound by the County Code of Ethics and are required to complete a financial disclosure statement upon appointment and by April 15 of each succeeding year of service.

Potential candidates should have interests and experience related to the goals of the commission, live in the appropriate County Council district, and be able to commit 8-10 hours monthly to commission meetings and work projects. This includes attending monthly meetings on the third Wednesday of each month from 3-5 p.m., and participating in committee work, which can require additional meetings.

For more information on the commission and its activities, visit www.metrokc.gov/dias/crc or contact Paula Harris-White, Administrator for Commission at 206-296-8610 or e-mail Paula.Harris-White@metrokc.gov.