Want to make a difference in your community but not sure where to start? The City of Geneva is looking for dedicated volunteers to fill vacancies on its Historic Preservation and Ethics commissions.

The Historic Preservation Commission is tasked with maintaining the authentic architectural character and historic integrity of properties within the Geneva Historic District as well as individual historic landmark properties throughout the City. The seven-member body makes recommendations and determinations based on the City’s historic preservation ordinance; the U.S. Secretary of Interior’s (SOI) Standards for Rehabilitation; design guidelines for historic properties; and other policies adopted by the City Council. Typically, the Historic Preservation Commission meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month.

Upon receipt of a written complaint alleging an ethics violation, the Ethics Commission is responsible for investigating, conducting hearings and deliberations, and issuing recommendations for disciplinary actions. Meetings are held as needed.

Residents interested in serving on this advisory board should submit an application along with a letter of interest to Mayor Kevin Burns, Geneva City Hall, 22 S. First St., Geneva, IL 60134. The envelope should include a reference to either the Historic Preservation Commission or the Strategic Plan Advisory Committee. The application deadline is 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28.

Candidates must be residents living within the City's corporate boundary limits (see the City's Ward Map).

Mayor Burns will review all the applications and bring forward nominations to the City Council this spring.

Questions about the Historic Preservation Commission can be directed to Preservation Planner Michael Lambert by calling 630-938-4541 or sending him an email. For more information about the Ethics Commission, call Geneva City Hall at 630-232-7494 and ask for the City Administrator's Office.