There are many advisory and watchdog committees whose jurisdiction includes Castro Valley, Alameda County, or the broader Bay Area. As of January 2015, the following have vacancies, and we encourage you to learn more about each of these and consider applying for a position!

Castro Valley

• The Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) has an opening, due to Matt Turner’s resignation. (Also, according to this list of MAC members, John Ryzanych’s term expired in August 2014.) All residents of Castro Valley are eligible for the MAC, as are those who have owned a business in Castro Valley for at least five years. To apply, fill out this application form for the MAC and submit to Supervisor Nate Miley‘s office. No deadline has been given.
• Alameda County Public Works is seeking applicants for the Castro Valley Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (CV BPAC). This new committee of seven will advise Alameda County Public Works on bicycle and pedestrian projects in Castro Valley. Applicants must be residents, property owners, or business owners in Castro Valley; here is the application for the CV BPAC. Applications for the CV BPAC are due on Friday, February 6, 2015.

Alameda County

• The Alameda County Transportation Commission (ACTC) is responsible for planning and funding transportation projects (including transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities) in Alameda County. The ACTC Citizens Watchdog Committee, soon to be renamed the Independent Watchdog Committee, will scrutinize Measure BB expenditures and report to the public. The members represent various cities and regions in Alameda County; there is an opening for a member to represent District 4, which includes Castro Valley. To apply, fill out this ACTC Watchdog Committee application form and contact Supervisor Nate Miley‘s office. No deadline has been given.

Bay Area

• The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) handles planning and coordination of transportation (including highways, bridges, and public transit) across the nine counties of the Bay Area. As of January 2015 they are recruiting for three vacancies on the MTC Policy Advisory Council. The council members must overall represent a variety of interests and locales; Castro Valley residents who can represent economic or environmental issues are eligible for the open At-Large seat. Here is the MTC Policy Advisory Council application; no deadline has been given.

Are you applying for any of these? What’s driving you?