City of Burien

Advisory boards, commissions, and committees are an essential way for local governments to engage community members in the democratic process. They study issues important to the community, take in public testimony, perform independent research, and review staff reports and recommendations. The advisory boards are then able to discuss, analyze, formulate, and forward well-developed, thoughtful recommendations to the Burien City Council.

Advisory body meetings are open to the public. Planning Commission meetings are broadcast online and on Channel 21.

Burien has four advisory boards and one ad-hoc committee:

• Business and Economic Development Partnership
• Human Services Commission
• Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Advisory Board
• Planning Commission
• Burien Airport Committee
  

Joining a Board

Community members are invited to apply to serve on advisory boards, commissions, and committees. Appointments are made by the City Council. Terms of service are four years, but they may vary depending on vacancies.

For more information, please contact the City Clerk at (206) 248-5517 or email.

Application Instructions and Guidelines

Starting in November 2026, the City of Burien will transition to an open application process.
 
Community members can apply for a position at any time using this online application form. If you prefer a hard copy or fillable PDF application, please contact the City Clerk at (206)241-4647 or via email. 

Received applications will be kept on file for 1 year (12 months) from the date of submission. Applicants whose applications have not expired or were not appointed during the annual recruitment may be eligible for review and consideration if a position becomes vacant or for the next annual recruitment. 

The City Clerk’s Office will contact applicants with “active” applications to confirm whether they are still interested when a vacancy arises or when the next annual recruitment begins. 

If you would like to withdraw your application at any point, contact the City Clerk at (206) 248-5517 or via email.

Policies and Procedures

Advisory board members are required to read and follow applicable laws and policies related to advisory boards and commissions, including:

• Orientation Handbook: Advisory Boards and Commissions
  
• City of Burien Resolution 215 a resolution of the City Council of the City of Burien Amending Resolution No. 115 Adding Section 14 Procedure for Responding to a Violation of the Code of Ethics and Section 15, Remedies
  
• Burien Municipal Code, Chapter 2.50 (Boards and Commissions)
  

Updated October 30, 2026