The following is a listing of the Boards and Commissions that serve in Santa Clara County. Most of the members of these Boards and Commissions are appointed by the Board of Supervisors and serve at their discretion. All meetings are open to the public.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | 

Advisory Council to the Council on Aging
The Older Americans Act of 1965 as amended and the Older Californians Act established that the Area Agencies on Aging shall call upon citizens to advise the Board of Supervisors on issues affecting older persons. The purpose of the Council shall be to serve as a principal independent advocate on behalf of older persons within the planning and service area. The Council is composed of 36 members, five members appointed by the Board of Supervisors with a term of three years.

Meetings: First Monday 12:30 p.m. at Santa Clara Senior Center, 1303 Fremont Street.

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities
The Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities was established by the Board of Supervisors on August 9, 1965. The general purpose is to act in an advisory capacity in reviewing and evaluating the needs, services, facilities and special problems of persons with disabilities in Santa Clara County. The Commission is composed of 15 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: Third Tuesday,  6:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Advisory Commission on Consumer Affairs
The Consumer Affairs Commission was established September 10, 1974. The duties of the Commission are to assist and advise the Administration related to the interests of consumers; to consult and cooperate with various agencies to prevent duplication of efforts in the field of consumer protection; and to receive complaints and inquiries from consumers regarding deceptive or unfair trade practices in the County. The Commission is composed of 9 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: Fourth Monday, 7:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Airport Land Use Commission
The Airport Land Use Commission was established November 23, 1982. The Commission shall assist local agencies in ensuring compatible land uses in the vicinity of all airports; coordinate planning at the state, regional, and local levels so as to provide for the orderly development of air transportation; prepare and adopt an airport land use plan; and review the plans, regulations, and other actions of local agencies and airport operators. The Commission consists of seven voting members (two of whom are appointed by the Board of Supervisors) with a term of four years.

Meetings: Fourth Wednesday (odd months), 6:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Airports Commission
The Airports Commission was established on August 17, 1982. The Commission consists of seven members with a term of four years. The Commission advises on matters of policy concerning the operations, long-term financing, capital improvements and the acquisition of land or airspace for the County airport system; reviews and make recommendations on research studies; makes recommendations on cooperation with military airports and joint use arrangements; and assists in the implementation and review of the County Airports Master Plan. The commission shall consist of seven voting members. Each commissioner shall serve a term of four years.

Meetings: First Tuesday,  6:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Animal Advisory Commission
The Animal Advisory Commission was established on January 22, 1985. The purpose of the Commission is to aid in coordinating and promoting pet population control measures; to investigate and find ways of achieving an animal shelter at minimum cost; to make suggestions to strengthen the county animal control program; to serve as an information and referral source on animals; and to educate the public about animal issues. The Board consists of seven members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: Second Thursday of January, April, July and October, 6:30 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Area Development Disabilities Board VII
The Area Developmental Disabilities Board VII is one of 13 boards established by Division 4.5 of the California State Welfare and Institutions Code. It is the responsibility of this Board to encourage the development of needed services of good quality and coordinate services to prevent duplication and fragmentation of services. The Board has 17 members, three of whom are appointed by the Board of Supervisors. Half of the members are persons with developmental disabilities or their parents or guardians and the other half representatives of the general public and their term of office is three years.

Meetings: Second Tuesday (even months), 10:00 a.m. at San Andreas Regional Center, 7855 Wren Avenue, Gilroy.

Assessment Appeals Boards I,  II and III
The Assessment Appeals Boards were established by the Board of Supervisors. Members must have a minimum of five years professional experience as a CPA or public accountant, real estate broker, attorney, or property appraiser. Members shall receive a stipend for each day of attendance at an Assessment Appeal Hearing. The Boards shall have the power to equalize the valuation of the taxable property in the County for the purposes of taxation in the manner provided for in Section 16 of Article XIII of the Constitution of the State of California. Occasionally special meetings will be called. Each Board is composed of three members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: Second and Fourth Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. at the County Government Center.

Assessment Appeals Hearing Officers
The Assessment Appeals Hearing Officers are appointed by the Board of Supervisors with a term of three years and receive a stipend for each day a hearing is conducted. The hearing officers shall conduct hearings on assessment protests on behalf of the Assessment Appeals Board on the sole issue of whether a change of ownership or new construction has occurred with regard to real property in the County so as to cause a reassessment of said property for ad valorem property tax purposes. The qualifications of the hearing officers shall be a minimum of five years professional experience in this state as an attorney. No person shall be qualified to be a hearing officer who, within the three (3) years immediately preceding their appointment, has served as the legal representative for, or was employed by, the county assessor. The term of office is three years.

Meetings: Third Wednesday (odd months), 9:00 a.m. at the County Government Center.

The Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency 
The Bay Area Water Supply and conservation Agency (BAWSCA) is governed by a 26-member Board of Directors comprised of respected community leaders representing the 25 cities and water districts that are member agencies of BAWSCA, two private utilities that also have appointees to the board, Stanford University and California Water Service Company.

One member is appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years. For more information, contact the BAWSCA office at (650) 349-3000.

Meetings: Third Thursday, 7:00 p.m. at various locations.

Board of Plumbing Examiners
The Board of Plumbing Examiners shall determine the competency and knowledge of persons who are required to hold a Certificate of Competency. Persons passing such examinations are then issued Certificates through the Board of Supervisors. Examinations are held every other month. Persons passing such examinations are then issued Certificates through the Board of Supervisors. The Board is composed of seven members appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: Third Thursday (even months), 3:00 p.m. at the Office of the Sheriff, 55 West Younger Avenue, San Jose.

Certification Appeals Board
The Certification Appeals Board was established on December 12, 2000. The purpose of this body is to review the decisions of the Certification Coordinator when there is an appeal filed for a denial of certification and to review all sanction appeals for facilities and staff, with respect to Adult Drug and Alcohol Residential Facilities. The Board consists of five members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: Scheduled when appeals are filed. Meetings are held at the County Government Center.

Child Abuse Council
The Child Abuse Council was designated by the Board of Supervisors on February 24, 1987 as the local voluntary council to carry out its original charge of recommending programs for funding by the Children's Trust Fund. Members are appointed from nominations of the Child Abuse Council and shall have background in the child abuse field and shall provide new and innovative contributions to the issues for treatment of, prevention of and education about child abuse. Anyone with an interest in, and commitment to, improving child abuse services in the County may apply to be a non-voting member. The council consist of 23 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: Second Friday, 7:30 a.m. at the County Government Center.

Citizens' Advisory Commission on Elections
Established by the Board of Supervisors December 16, 2008. The Commission acts in an advisory capacity to the Board of Supervisors and the Registrar of Voters with respect to promoting the integrity, efficiency and accuracy of voter registration and election processes, encouraging the widest possible citizen participation in elections, promoting voter education and outreach, and providing information and advice to the Board of Supervisors and Registrar of Voters. The Commission consists of  7 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: First Tuesday, 6:00p.m. at the County Government Center.

Citizens' Oversight Committee for Measure A
The Citizens' Oversight Committee for Measure A was established by the Board of Supervisors on January 13, 2009. The Committee conducts annual reviews of the report issued by the chief financial officer for the County detailing the amount of bond proceeds collected under Measure A and expended during the preceding year. The Committee shall conduct an annual public meeting to discuss its findings with respect to the bond proceeds being expended for the purposes specified in Measure A. The Commission consists of 10 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: The Committee meets not less than once per year during the month of January and as often as needed thereafter.

Code Enforcement Appeals Board
The Code Enforcement Appeals Board was established June 12, 1979. It is the purpose of this body to provide an Appeals Board for any interested person dissatisfied with any decision by the Building Official or his duly authorized representative with respect to the suitability of alternate materials, alternate methods and types of construction, or interpretation of the various building and construction codes. The Board consists of 5 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings are scheduled when appeals are filed, and meetings are held at the County Government Center.

Commission on the Status of Women
The Commission on the Status of Women was established on December 26, 1973. The general purpose of the commission is to promote the Board of Supervisors' policy to take affirmative action to eliminate the practice of discrimination and prejudice on account of sex in the areas of housing, employment, education, and related fields. The Commission is composed of 15 members appointed by the Board of Supervisors with a term of three years.

Meetings: Second Monday, 6:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

CordeValle Youth Golf Foundation, Inc.
CordeValle Youth Golf Foundation, Inc. was established on December 5, 2001 by the Board of Supervisors. The Foundation is a nonprofit public benefit corporation and is organized for the private gain of any person. The specific purpose of the corporation is to engage in charitable and educational activities within the meaning of section 501c(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, that expands golf opportunities of youth of all income levels throughout Santa Clara County, including the support of specifically established high school golf programs serving underserved commmunities within close proximity to public or municipal golf courses. The Corporation has seven directors, five of which are appointed by the Board of Supervisors; Each Director shall remain in office until such time as the applicable entity reponsible for the Director's appointment as set forth in this Article V; Section 1 of these Bylaws determines to replace that director with another person.

Meetings: Three times per year.

Correctional Industries Advisory Board
The Correctional Industries Advisory Board was established on August 25, 1992. It is the policy of the County to encourage inmates in the County jail system to develop skills and work experience to enhance their ability to find employment after release. The program will seek to provide meaningful training and work experience under the supervision of the Santa Clara County Department of Correction to selected inmates who volunteer to participate, while also generating revenue and providing products and services. The Board is comprised of seven members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: Quarterly.

Council on Equal Employment Opportunities
The Council on Equal Employment Opportunities was established on May 22, 1979. The Council advises the Board of Supervisors, the County Executive, employee groups, community groups and the public at large with respect to ways to implement affirmative action to eliminate discrimination on account of race, sex, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, physical or mental disability , medical condition, political belief, organizational affiliation or association with any individual in any way of these groups, and contracting opportunities in accordance with applicable federal and state regulations. Membership consists of 17 representatives, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years. 

Meetings: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Domestic Violence Council
The Domestic Violence Council was established April 23, 1991. The purpose of the Council is to encourage coordination between agencies dealing with domestic violence; promoting effective prevention, intervention and treatment techniques; and improving the response to domestic violence and abuse to reduce incidents of violence. The council shall consist of 22 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: First Friday, 7:30 a.m. at the County Government Center.

El Camino Hospital District Hospital Facilities Authority Governing Board of Directors 
Established on March 1, 1979, the El Camino Hospital District Hospital Facilities Authority is administered by a five member board. Two members appointed by the Board of Directors of the Hospital District, one member is appointed by the Board by a majority vote of the other four members and two members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years

Meetings: Annually.

Ethics Commission 
The Ethics Commission was established on July 18, l995.  The commission has the authority to independently exercise all powers necessary to regulate, investigate, subpoena records, conduct hearings and issue orders to enforce the code of ethics. The Ethics Commission consists of seven members. Each commissioner shall be appointed by the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court from a list of three persons nominated by the board member whose term of office coincides with the term of the commissioner.

Meetings: Scheduled when an ethics complaint is filed. Meetings are held at the County Government Center.

Fairgrounds Management Corporation
The Santa Clara County Fairgrounds Management Corporation is a California Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation created in 1994. The primary purposes of the Corporation are to provide cultural, educational and recreational events for those in the County of Santa Clara vicinity through the planning, fundraising, production and management of the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds. The Corporation's Board of Directors shall consist of five persons with each County Supervisor appointing one director. Appointments are made annually.

Meetings: Third Wednesdays of January, April, July and October, 2:00 p.m. at Santa Clara County Fairgrounds Executive Director's Suite, 344 Tully Road, San Jose.

FIRST 5 Santa Clara County
FIRST 5 Santa Clara County was established on March 30, 1999. The purpose of FIRST 5 is to promote, support, and improve the early development of children from the prenatal stage to five years of age throughout the entire county, through the creation and implementation of an integrated, comprehensive and collaborative system of information and services to enhance early childhood development pursuant to the California Children and Families First Act of 1998, Health & Safety Code Section 130100. The membership consists of nine members appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of two years.

Meetings: Monthly at FIRST 5 Santa Clara County Community Room, 4000 Moorpark Avenue, San Jose.

Fish & Game Commission
The Fish and Game Commission was established April 18, 1960. The duty of the Commission is to investigate all requests for the expending of the moneys in the County Fish and Game Propagation Fund and make written recommendations regarding expenditures. Requests may be initiated by members of the Commission or by any member of the public. Each member shall be familiar with fish and game problems within the County of Santa Clara. The Commission consists of five members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: Third Monday (even months), 6:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Flood Control Zone Advisory Committees 
The Flood Control Zone Advisory Committees of the Santa Clara Valley Water District are comprised of representatives of each city in the zone and a representative and alternate from the county where the unincorporated area exceeds 25 percent of the area of the zone. The District is divided into five flood control zones that conform to the boundaries of the major watersheds affecting the Valley floor. Members bring to the District the desires of the citizens of the communities they represent and aid in coordinating governmental projects. The Board of Supervisors nominates one representative and one alternate for each of the five zones. The length of term is one year with no limit on the number of terms served.

Meetings: February, May, September and November.

Health Advisory Commission
The purpose of this commission is to act in an advisory capacity to the Board of Supervisors regarding issues which impact the health of the public. In this advisory capacity, the commission will use information to assess needs and identify priorities to make recommendations. Recommendations may include policy changes, concern service enhancement, system changes, resource allocation and infrastructure to deliver, monitor and evaluate County action. The Commission is composed of 15 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of 4 years.

Meetings: Third Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Historical Heritage Commission
The Historical Heritage Commission was established on March 20, 1973. The purpose of the Commission is to protect, preserve and promote the historical and cultural heritage of this county so that this and future generations may know and appreciate the significant historical places, people and events that have been a part of this area of our State and Nation. The Commission is composed of 11 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years. 

Meetings: Third Thursday, 6:30 p.m. at the County Government Center.

HIV Health Services Planning Council
The HIV Health Services Planning Council was established on October 3, 1995 in order to comply with federal requirements necessary for Santa Clara County to apply for and receive Ryan White Title I funds. The purpose of the Planning Council shall be to develop a comprehensive plan for the organization and delivery of health services; establish priorities for the allocation of funds within Santa Clara County; assess the efficiency of the administration mechanism in rapidly allocating funds to the areas of greatest need; participate in the development of the Statewide coordinated statement of needs; and establish methods for obtaining input on community needs and priorities. The Council consists of a minimum of 29 members, with an initial term on the Council expiring on December 31st of the year of appointment and the Planning Council may recommend to the Board of Supervisors that all subsequent terms shall be for two years.

Meetings: Second Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. at Alameda Facility on Lenzen Avenue, San Jose.

Homeless Healthcare Advisory Board
The purpose of the Homeless Healthcare Advisory Board is to advise the Board of Supervisors on matters relating to the operation of those health care clinics operated by the County of Santa Clara which are designated as federally qualified centers defined by 42 U.S.C.1395xaa(3)(Santa Clara FQHCs.) The Board consists of twelve members appointed by the Board of Supervisors for a four-year term, six of which are user members and two are homeless or former homeless members.

Meetings: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. at 2325 Enborg Lane, San Jose.

Housing Authority of the County of Santa Clara
The Santa Clara County Housing Authority was established on March 13, 1967. Its general purpose is to combat the ills created and fostered by unsanitary or unsafe dwelling accommodations and to address the shortage of safe and sanitary dwelling units. The Commission is composed of seven members appointed by the Board of Supervisors. Five of the members shall represent the public at large and two of the members shall be project tenants, one of whom must be a senior citizen over 62 years of age. The public at large members are appointed for four-year terms and the project tenant members for two years terms.

Meetings: Fourth Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. at 505 West Julian, San Jose.

Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee
In order to insure broad-based citizen involvement for the Santa Clara County Block Grant program, the Board of Supervisors established the Housing and Community Development Citizen's Advisory Committee on April 30, 1979. The Committee serves as the policy recommending body to the Housing and Community Development Council Committee. The Committee is composed of a total of 13 members with five members appointed by the County Board of Supervisors and eight members appointed at the discretion of the participating non-entitlement cities. The length of term is one year. There are no term limits, so members may be automatically renewed unless otherwise notified by the appointing body.

Meetings: October, November, January, February and March at the Alder Conference Room, 2310 North First Street, San Jose.

Hsinchu County, Taiwan, Sister-County Commission
The Sister-County Commission with Hsinchu County, Taiwan, Republic of China was established December 20, 1994. The purpose of the Commission is to foster an exchange of art, culture, education, trade and technology by and between the people and governments of the County of Santa Clara, USA, and Hsinchu County, Taiwan, Republic of China. The Commission acts in an advisory capacity in promoting, aiding and encouraging a diverse cultural, educational and technological exchange with the Hsinchu County, Taiwan, China. The Commission is composed of 15 members appointed by the Board of Supervisors with a term of three years. For more information please contact (408) 299-5115 or email sistercounties@ceo.co.santa-clara.ca.us.

Meetings: Fourth Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Human Relations Commission
The Human Relations Commission was established August 22, 1972. The general purpose of the Commission is to advise the Board of Supervisors on matters that foster mutual respect and understanding among or between people within Santa Clara County and to address incidents of prejudice and discrimination perpetrated on and by the people or groups of people within Santa Clara County because of race, religion, national origin, cultural background, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability or other factors. The commission is composed of 15 members, appointed by the Board Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Joint Community Relations for Reid-Hillview Airport 
The Reid-Hillview Airport Joint Community Relations Committee was established by the Board of Supervisors May 18, 2004. The purpose of the RHV-JCRC is to enhance the compatibility of the RHV with the surrounding community by facilitating communication among airport users, community members and County Staff and by providing policy advice to the County Board of Supervisors. The Reid-Hillview Airport Joint Community Relations Committee is composed of eleven appointed members. Two additional members shall be Board-as-a-Whole appointments, with a term of four years.

Meetings: As Needed.

Juvenile Justice Commission
The Juvenile Justice Commission was established through the provision of Sections 225 to 231 of the California State Welfare and Institution Code. The Juvenile Commission of Santa Clara County is a State mandated, court appointed authority. The general purposes of the Juvenile Justice commission are to inquire into the administrative of the Juvenile law in Santa Clara County. The commission is dedicated to promotion of an effective Juvenile Justice System operated in an environment of credibility, dignity, fairness and respect for the youth and other citizens of the County. The commission shall be composed of not fewer than seven or more than fifteen citizens. Appointment shall be for a term of four years, except for the appointment(s) of Youth Commissioner(s) between 14 and 21 years of age and which shall be for a term of two years. Youth Commissioner is eligible for reappointments as an adult member upon reaching the age of 18 years old, providing a vacancy exists at the end of his/her appointed term. The presiding Judge of the Superior Court shall appoint membership on the Commission with the concurrence of the Supervising Judge of the Juvenile Court.

Meetings: First Tuesday, 12:15 p.m. at the Crime Lab building, Guadalupe and Hedding, San Jose.

Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council
The Board of Supervisors adopted a Resolution creating the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council on November 19, l996. The tasks of the Council include assessing current resources, identifying service areas where resources may not be adequate, and developing proposals to prevent and respond effectively to juvenile crime. The JJCC will oversee this planning process, which will result in a final Local Action Plan to be submitted to the Board of Corrections by March 14, 1997. The planning process is closely integrated with efforts of the Crime Task Force and Joint Conference Committee on Children and Youth. The Council composed of 15 members, with no term limits.

Meetings: As needed at the Sheriff's Auditorium, 55 West Younger Ave, San Jose.

Juvenile Justice Systems Collaborative
The Juvenile Justice Systems Collaborative was established the Board of Supervisors on June 3, 2008. The purpose of the Juvenile Justice Systems Collaborative is to provide a channel for system partners to work together in the best interest of the minors in the juvenile delinquency system while preventing or reducing the unnecessary detention of minors; work with other juvenile justice bodies to maximize resource efficiency and avoid duplication of efforts; and address the issue of disproportionate minority representation in the juvenile justice system. Membership is composed of 26 members, with a term of 3 years. Each member may serve additional terms of service if the JJSC is extended by the Board of Supervisors beyond the initial 3 year-period of July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2011.

Meetings: Second Wednesday, 8:15 a.m. at the County Government Center.

Lake Canyon Community Services District 
The Lake Canyon Community Services District's purpose is to provide for the collection, treatment and disposal of wastewater within the Lexington Basin watershed. The petition to LAFCO was signed by 80% of the registered voters residing in the area. (Government code section 61000 et. seq.) The Board of Directors is composed of five members, appointed for unlimited terms.

Meetings: Monthly, 7:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Los Altos Hills County Fire Protection District
The Los Altos Hills County Fire Protection District was formed on October 23, l939. Seven members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors for a term of five years and members must live within the boundaries of the Fire District and be registered voters. The District is empowered to establish, equip and maintain a fire department.

Meetings: Third Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. at the Foothill College Fire Station, 12355 El Monte Road.

Mental Health Board
The Mental Health Board was established on November 14, 1966. The Board acts in an advisory capacity in reviewing and evaluating the community's mental health needs, services, facilities and special problems.The Mental Health Board of the Santa Clara County is composed of members of the community at large, clients and family members of clients of the mental health system. The purpose of the Board is to review and evaluate the community's mental health needs, facilities and special problems; advise the Board of Supervisors and the county mental health director as to any aspect of the county mental health program; and submit an annual report to the Board of Supervisors on the needs and performance of the county's mental health system. The Board is composed of 16 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: Second Monday, 12:00 p.m. at 1075 East Santa Clara Street, Second Floor; San Jose.

Moscow, Sister-County Commission
The Sister-County Commission with the Moscow City Government, Russia was established on October 25, 1994. The purpose of the commission is to foster an exchange of art, culture, education, trade and technology by and between the people and the Government of the County of Santa Clara, USA and the Moscow City Government. The Commission is composed of 15 members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years. For more information please contact (408) 299-5115 or email sistercounties@ceo.co.santa-clara.ca.us.

Meetings: First Monday, 6:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

National Guard & Veterans Affairs Commission
The Commission was established on January 12, 1988. The Commission is composed of 11 members. Seven members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a four year term. The remaining four are non-voting members of the Commission. The Commission shall act in an advisory capacity promoting, aiding and encouraging public support to and recruitment for the National Guard and veteran affairs.

Meetings: Third Thursday (odd months), 3:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Parks & Recreation Commission
The Parks and Recreation Commission was established March 14, 1955. The duties of the Commission are to promote, aid and encourage public recreation, including the development of recreation and park facilities and programs. The Commission shall act in an advisory capacity to the Board of Supervisors in the planning, maintenance, development and operation of all recreational areas and facilities owned, controlled or leased by the County. It shall study and make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on the acquisition and development of recreation areas and facilities such as playgrounds, parks, beaches, pools, campsites and other recreational facilities. The Commission is composed of seven members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: First Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Personnel Board
The Personnel Board was established on May 5, 1960. The purpose of the Board is to recommend to the Board of Supervisors merit system rules; advise the Board of Supervisors or the County Executive on matters concerning the administration of the personnel system which are outside the scope of representation with recognized employee organization; hear appeals of any person in the classified service relative to any suspension, demotion or dismissal unless an alternative hearing procedure is available to the person pursuant to an agreement between the Board of Supervisors and a recognized employee organization; and exercise such functions consistent with the Charter and as may be prescribed by ordinance. The Board is composed of five members appointed by the Board of Supervisors from the voters of the County, none of whom shall hold any salaried County office or employment, with a term of four years. No member of the Board, during membership, or for one year thereafter, shall be eligible for appointment to any salaried County office or employment. The term for each member of the Board is four years.

Meetings: Fridays as needed, 9:00 a.m. at the County Government Center.

Planning Commission
The Commission was established on November 15, 1954. The Commission works in conjunction with the Department of Planning and Development as the County planning agency. The Commission advises and makes recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on all ordinance amendments dealing with land development and subdivision matters. It may also deny zoning change applications or may recommend zoning changes to the Board of Supervisors. It has the power to grant or deny use permits and administers the County's planning laws for land use and development in unincorporated areas. It also recommends to the Board of Supervisors policies, programs, and courses of action for orderly physical development of the County. The commission is composed of seven members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: First Thursday, 1:30 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Province of Florence, Italy, Sister-County Commission
The Sister-County Commission with the Province of Florence, Italy was established by the Board of Supervisors on April 26, 1988. The Commission shall act in an advisory capacity in promoting, aiding and encouraging a diverse cultural, educational and technological exchange with the Province of Florence, Italy. Persons appointed shall have previously demonstrated their interest or participation in matters pertaining to the relationship between Italy and the United States. The Commission is composed of twenty five members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years. For more information please contact (408) 299-5115 or email sistercounties@ceo.co.santa-clara.ca.us.

Meetings: First Thursday, 7:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Public Authority for In Home Support Services
In 1992, California passed a bill that allowed counties to create Public Authorities for In Home Support Service (IHSS). The Public Advisory Committee studies, reviews, evaluates and makes recommendations to the Public Authority Governing Body and the Public Authority Executive Director relative to matters affecting persons receiving In-Home Supportive Services in the County, including but not limited to advocating on behalf of all County residents not receiving In-Home Support Services who require in-home attendant services to live independently in the community. The Commission is composed of eleven members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: Third Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. at 2115 The Alameda, San Jose.

Recycling and Waste Reduction Commission 
The Recycling and Waste Reduction Commission of Santa Clara County was established on February 11, 1992 and provides leadership for countywide planning and works to assure the success of countywide cooperative programs to reduce, reuse and recycle materials that otherwise would be disposed of in landfills. The ten member commission serves as the principal advisory body to city and town councils and the Board of Supervisors of Santa Clara County on countywide solid waste planning issues. The Commission also has state-mandated responsibilities, such as review and oversight of the Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan and Sitting Element, local Source Reduction and Recycling Elements, Household Hazardous Waste Elements and Non-disposal Facility Elements. All of these documents are required by state law.

Meetings: Fourth Monday (even months), 5:15 p.m. at 1553 Berger Ave, Building 1 Conference Room.

Roads Commission
The Roads Commission was established on April 18, 1995. The purpose of the Commission is to give advice and make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on matters generally relating to the planning, design, construction and operation of the County's expressways, highways and roads and such other matters as directed by the Board. From the Commission membership and based on interest and expertise, the Roads Commission Chairperson shall on an annual basis nominate the County representative to the Valley Transportation Authority Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (VTA BPAC) to the Board of Supervisors for appointment to the VTA BPAC. The VTA BPAC representative shall keep the Commission apprised of activities and actions of the BPAC and shall represent the County at VTA BPAC. The Commission is composed of seven members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, each representing the public at large and serving four year terms.

Meetings: Second Thursday, 4:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

San Martin Planning Advisory Committee 
The San Martin Planning Committee was created on January 12, 1981. Committee members should be from the San Martin "community." The general purpose of the Committee is to review the San Martin Water Quality Study and provide staff analysis of the planning implications; review interim land use policies established in the General Plan for San Martin; make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on the need for and scope of detailed planning for the San Martin area; act as the citizen's planning committee for the development of the detailed San Martin Plan as recommended in the General Plan. The Committee is composed of twelve members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, serving a term of four years.

Meetings: The day prior to the Planning Commission meetings, 7:00 p.m. at 425 East Middle Avenue, San Martin.

Santa Clara County Health Authority

The Santa Clara County Health Authority was established pursuant to Section 14087.38 of the California State Welfare and Institutions Code. The purposes of the Health Authority Governing Board are to meet the problems of delivery of publicly assisted medical care in Santa Clara County, to demonstrate ways of promoting quality care and cost efficiency, and to further such other purposes as are contemplated by section 14087.38 and described in the ordinance.

The governing board of the Health Authority shall consist of thirteen members appointed by the Board of Supervisors with a term of three years.

Meetings: Four times per year, Thursday, 2:30 p.m. at 210 E. Hacienda Avenue, Campbell.

Saratoga Cemetery District
The Saratoga Cemetery District was established in the late 1950s to provide burials for residents of the District as well as relatives of residents and eligible former residents. The Board of Trustees provides for the maintenance of cemetery plots and submits annual estimates of expenditures to be raised by taxation to the County. The County levies the tax upon property in the District to raise the necessary funds. The Saratoga Cemetery District Board of Trustees is composed of five members appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: Fourth Wednesday (even months), 5:00 p.m. at 14766 Oak Street, Saratoga

Senior Care Commission
The Senior Care Commission was established on September 15, 1987. The general purpose of the Commission is to assess issues, concerns and needs of persons over age sixty with restricted self-care capabilities who are in need of institutional and/or community-based long-term care, and to make recommendations regarding legislation, education and services affecting this population. The Commission is composed of sixteen members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of three years.

Meetings: Second Wednesday, 2:00 p.m. at the County Government Center.

Social Services Advisory Commission
The Commission was established on October 24, 1978. The purpose of the Social Services Advisory Commission is to assess community social service needs; to provide policy guidance to the Board of Supervisors and Department of Social Services; and to establish working relationships with the various community organizations concerned with Social Services. The commission consists of fifteen members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a three year term.

Meetings: Fourth Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. at the County Government Center.

South County Joint Planning Advisory Committee
The South County Joint Planning Advisory Committee was created by the Board of Supervisors on December 11, 1984 to provide a framework for review of County policy, concurrent with city policies, so as to jointly meet expected growth in population and employment. The Committee is composed of fourteen members representing the Cities of Gilroy, Morgan Hill and San Martin; and four members appointed by the County Board of Supervisors. The appointment is for an unlimited term.

Meetings: Second Thursday (even months), 7:00 p.m. at the Morgan Hill Civic Center

South Santa Clara County Fire District Board of Commissioners
The South Santa Clara County Fire Protection District was formed on April 14, 1980. The District is empowered to establish, equip and maintain a fire department. It may enter into contracts for the purpose of fire protection and may perform any or all activities necessary for the prevention of fires. The District provides fire protection to the unincorporated area of south Bernal Road and serves approximately 30,000 County residents. The Board has seven members, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with a term of four years.

Meetings: Second Wednesday (even months), 6:00 p.m. at 10810 No Name Uno, Gilroy

• Handbook for Advisory Boards and Commissions
• Current Vacancies on Boards and Commissions