The City of Palo Alto has eight Boards and Commissions appointed by the City Council. The Boards and Commissions focus on specific areas of discussion. Members volunteer their time and expertise to review items and make recommendations before they are reviewed by the City Council. All Board and Commission terms end on March 31, per Ordinance 5529.
We continuously accept applications, regardless of current openings. Subscribe to our Board and Commissions Email Newsletter to receive recruitment updates.
Hybrid meetings for boards, commissions, and committees began March 1, 2022. In-person and virtual teleconference participation are available to the public. The Council Chambers and Community Meeting Room, located in City Hall at 250 Hamilton Ave, are the physical location for all meeting groups. (Please note: Ad Hoc Committees remain virtual-only). Learn more about hybrid meeting attendance.
Apply to interested Board/Commission through the online forms listed below. Applications are accepted continuously. Several questions on an applicant's background and Board/Commission-specific insights will be asked. We strongly encourage filling out the forms thoroughly.
For more informational resources, visit our Board Member and Commissioner Resources Webpage.
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at City.Clerk@cityofpaloalto.org for further inquiries.
The City of Palo Alto complies with the Maddy Act(PDF, 111KB) (Government Code Section 54970). As such, all scheduled vacancies on the City Boards and Commissions for the following year are listed and posted annually by December 31st.
Last updated on May 25, 2022