Deschutes County seeks volunteer interested in serving on Budget Committee

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Deschutes County has a new volunteer opportunity available for residents who are interested in serving on the County’s Budget Committee. Applications will be accepted through Monday, Oct. 23.

Budget Committee members hear directly from department directors, staff and organizations about the county’s programs and services. The committee makes recommendations to the Board of Commissioners about how Deschutes County can best use its resources to serve the community.

Residents who have an interest in the programs and budget process of the County are encouraged to apply. Meetings are focused on the bigger picture - understanding the County's programs and services, discussing challenges and opportunities that departments are considering in their budget process and providing input on key budget decisions for the next year.

“We encourage residents of diverse backgrounds to consider applying to serve on the Budget Committee,” said Nick Lelack, County Administrator. “These are important positions that have a meaningful impact on the County’s programs and service delivery.”

The vacant position on the Budget Committee will serve a three-year term from Jan. 1, 2024 through Dec. 31, 2026.

Committee volunteers typically attend five to seven meetings between December and the end of June, including up to four days of meetings in late May. Additional meetings may be called if necessary. Members are responsible for reviewing documents in their own time to prepare for sessions, which are held during business hours. Committee members are not paid for their time.

The tentative meeting schedule for the Budget Committee to approve the 2024-2025 budget is:

Mid-Year Update: December 12, 2023 – 12 to 4 p.m.

Pre-Budget Week Meeting: To be determined (in early May)

Budget Week: Monday, May 20, 2024 – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Budget Week: Tuesday, May 21, 2024 - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Budget Week: Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Budget Week: Thursday, May 23, 2024 - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The above dates and times are subject to change.

To apply, visit www.deschutes.org/jobs.