Volunteers For Advisory Boards, Committees Can Apply In Red Bank

RED BANK, NJ — Residents can now apply through a special form to serve on the new Red Bank government's boards and commissions - the Volunteer Interest Form.

With a new government being inaugurated on July 1, the Borough Council will need to approve appointments on various government committees at the reorganization meeting that day.

And Red Bank is encouraging more participation.

Mayor Billy Portman said a suggestion by former independent council candidate Suzanne Viscomi sparked the move.

"At the last council meeting, resident Sue Viscomi mentioned having a simple way for residents to express interest in serving on one of the borough boards or committees. Great idea!" Portman said.

Voters in Red Bank in November opted to change the borough’s form of government to a nonpartisan "Council/Manager" form, effective July 1.

The process included the May 9 election to seat a new mayor and Borough Council. Mayor Billy Portman was re-elected, as was Councilmember Kate Triggiano. Others elected to the council are Nancy Facey-Blackwood, Ben Forest, David Cassidy, Laura Jannone and Kristina Bonatakis. All were members of the Red Bank's Ready team.

And most of the borough's advisory committees, commissions and boards will need to be established under the new governing body.

"We have a new council being inaugurated July 1, as well as a new form of government. We will also be resetting our boards and committees, so now is the perfect time to volunteer," Portman said. "It's time to throw your hat in the ring!"

Viscomi said the borough has residents with a wealth of experience that can serve the town. "But people don't always know how to go about it," she said Friday.

She said she hopes applicants are chosen "for the betterment of the community."

She also suggested to the council on Wednesday that minutes from all board and commissions be submitted to the Borough Clerk.

If you are interested in serving on one of these bodies, just fill out the Volunteer Interest Form, which you can access online at Volunteer Information Form "VIF". Submit completed forms to the Borough Clerk's Office or email to VIF@redbanknj.org.

Volunteer Information forms will also be available in the Borough Clerk's office.