There are several openings currently available on city boards and committees in St. James.

The city is seeking applicants to fill these positions, and anyone who would like to take an active role in serving the community is encouraged to apply. The volunteer positions offer residents a way to help guide decisions that affect everything from city planning to parks and library services. Anyone serving on a city board or committee must reside within St. James city limits.

To apply, go to stjamesmo.org. Under the City Council tab, click on Boards & Committees and fill out the linked application. Return it to City Clerk Linda Cochran at City Hall. The board you’ve applied to will review the application and a recommendation will be sent to the Board of Aldermen for approval.

Park Board

The Park Board (also known as the Parks and Recreation and Historical Preservation Committee) has five positions open. Four members currently serve on the board.

The board is looking for people who have a passion for improving the city’s parks, an interest in history and who can bring a positive attitude. Those who serve on the Park Board help develop the Parks and Recreation budget, oversee facilities and uses of the community’s parks and make recommendations to the Board of Aldermen to keep the parks safe.

“The board would like to have people that would like to see the betterment of the park system as a whole,” said Parks and Recreation Director Kristy Rich.

The Park Board meets at 5:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month. Members serve for a term of two years and can seek reappointment by the council when their term is up.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission has two positions open with five current members.

Members appointed to the commission advise the Board of Aldermen on zoning decisions and regulations. The commission reviews and recommends boundaries for zoning districts, as well as any proposed changes to those regulations. 

Members are responsible for staying informed on best practices in city planning and zoning to guide decisions on issues such as traffic flow, the separation of residential and commercial areas and the overall safety and convenience of the community.

The commission meets on an as-needed basis. Members serve for a term of four years and may seek reappointment by the council when their term expires.

Library Board

The Library Board has one position open and seven current members.

“We’re looking for people who represent different populations of the community and feel like they could represent the library in a positive way,” said Library Board President Linda Bland.

Board members serve the library in a variety of ways, from helping with programming, to reshelving books and working the circulation desk. Anyone with a passion for the library and its patrons is encouraged to apply.

The Library Board meets at 6 p.m. on every fourth Monday of the month. Members serve for a term of three years and can be reappointed by the council upon expiration.