As the economic, cultural and political landscape of Moffat County continues to evolve, the need for active participation among its residents is becoming increasingly crucial.

While a common belief holds that the course of the future is often set by faraway politicians and leaders, local residents can — and often do — play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their community.

One worthwhile way to contribute is by joining one of the many local boards and groups that champion various causes, initiatives and interests and often serve as the backbone of positive change within a community.

Local boards cover a diverse range of interests, from economic development to healthcare access to environmental advocacy.

Moffat County currently has vacancies on a number of its boards, including the planning & zoning commission, tourism board, EMS council, library board, airport advisory board and the area council on aging.

The county’s planning & zoning commission has openings for a one county seat and two alternate seats (one city and one county). All commission members are appointed for a three year term.

The commission is responsible for researching applications and making recommendations to the county commissioners. Planning Department head Candace Miller described the role as being “on the front line” for the county commissioners.

The current meeting time for the planning & zoning commission is 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. Meetings are held in the County Commissioners Chambers at the Moffat County Courthouse. Miller noted that the commission’s regularly scheduled meeting time may soon change, based on commission members’ preference.

The Moffat County Tourism Board has a position available for a community member involved in the tourism/lodging industry. The board is funded by the county’s 2% lodging tax and board members serve a three year term.

The board meets every second Wednesday at 3 p.m. at 775 Yampa Ave., with subcommittees holding additional monthly meetings.

The county’s EMS Council has two available seats. The council meets the second Tuesday of every even month at the Craig Fire and Rescue station, 419 Yampa Ave.

The Moffat County Library Board is looking for fill two vacancies, for a Craig city seat and Maybell seat, respectively. Library board members serve a term of five years.

Library Director Keisha Bickford identified the board members’ main responsibility as “advocating for the library in the community.”

The library board meets the third Tuesday of every month at 4 p.m. in the Craig Library Branch Conference Room, 570 Green St.

The advisory board for the the Craig/Moffat County Airport has a single vacancy to fill for a three-year term. Miller said the board typically focuses on airport projects, and would be a great fit for anyone with flying experience or interest.

The board meets the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in the airport’s terminal building at 3005 Highway 94, approximately 4.5 miles southeast of Craig.

Moffat County’s delegation for the region’s Area Council on Aging is hoping to fill multiple board seats, as well as alternate seats. The council’s meeting location shifts around the region.

Interested community members can easily apply for any of the boards by contacting Erin Miller at the Moffat County Commissioners office. Applications can be emailed to emiller@moffatcounty.net, faxed to 970-824-9191, or mailed to 1198 W. Victory Way, Suite 104. (Attn: Erin Miller/Moffat County Commissioners).

Application materials may be brief, but should include applicant’s full name and contact information.

Additional information for any of the board vacancies can be found by contacting 970-824-5517.

Community involvement through local boards and groups not only empowers individuals, but leads to stronger, vibrant communities. It facilitates open dialogue and real solutions, and uses the pursuit of shared goals to shape a brighter future for generations to come.