Five things to know about City of Texarkana, Texas' new "Get Involved" initiative

The City of Texarkana, Texas, has revamped its boards and commissions application process to encourage community members to become actively involved in local government. 

1. A brand new web portal

A new web page provides descriptions of each board, commission, and committee along with term dates, duties, residency requirements, and meeting schedules. 

Texarkana, Texas Mayor Bob Bruggeman encourages residents to consider applying. 

2. The appointments are essential

“From the Airport Board to the University Planned Development District, the recommendations provided by many of our resident board and commissions are an essential part of the local government process,” Mayor Bruggeman said. 

“Anyone interested is invited to apply for a position on a board or commission serving the City of Texarkana, Texas,” Bruggeman added. 

3. Special, ad-hoc committees are sometimes available

The City of Texarkana has several City Council-appointed Boards, Commissions, and Committees, and sometimes the City Council may occasionally appoint ad-hoc committees for particular purposes. 

As a part of this year’s process, the city is proposing to restart Keep Texarkana Beautiful (KTB), which was organized in 2010 to promote the beautification of the Texarkana community. 

4. The growth of Texarkana is the reason the city needs local talent

Texarkana, Texas City Manager David Orr explains the reason for the new initiative. 

“The vision of the City of Texarkana, Texas is to be a thriving regional center for education, business, and culture which attracts and serves our residents and visitors,” Orr said. 

“To accomplish our vision and mission, it takes a network of selfless volunteers, who advise the city on its board and commissions,” Orr added.

5. Some positions may require special skills

Some boards, commissions, and committees have residency requirements or require special skills and knowledge, while others do not. 

Board, commission and committee members are required to attend regularly scheduled meetings. 

How to get involved

A current list of each board and commission and current appointments and openings can be found at www.ci.texarkana.tx.us/370/Boards-and-Commissions. 

The City will receive applications annually from persons interested in serving, generally during the summer months. 

An altered schedule may be necessary for the first year to begin filling these vacancies, and applications will be accepted until July 15th. 

Applicants to boards and commissions currently complete will be held for City Council consideration for the next available vacancy.