From hunting regulations to climate change, volunteers provide advice to local government on a variety of issues.
The Corporation of Delta works with at least 100 volunteers across Ladner, Tsawwassen and North Delta, which make up 14 committees that provide input to municipal government. Each committee looks after a specific issue, ranging from heritage preservation to support for seniors to parks, recreation and culture.
Each year, a chair and a vice-chair for every committee will appoint volunteers that will have an advisory role, bringing their local experience and knowledge to make recommendations to Delta's mayor and council. A unique opportunity, the committees give the public a voice with which to participate in municipal decision-making.
"They're serving as a representative voice of a community," said deputy municipal clerk Sandra MacFarlane. "Input is very available."
Some volunteer positions require a certification of expertise, such as the advisory design panel, which looks after the design and construction of buildings. Most of the committees, however, look for people who are simply active and interested in specific community issues.
Committee meetings are often held on a monthly basis and are also open to the public for observation.
