​SCHEDULE 

Call for Nominations: March 18, 2026

Nominations Submittal Deadline: April 24, 2026 (midnight Pacific Time)

Nominating Committee Reviews Submittals: April 25 - May 15

Preliminary Notification and Confirmation of Selected Nominees: May 20

Public Notice of Board Member Selection: May 29, 2026 

Advisory Board Terms Officially Begin: June 1, 2026 

 

BACKGROUND

The Downtown Community Council (DCC) was formed in September 2024.  We are a fiscally sponsored partner of the Seattle Parks Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization. In lieu of a board of directors, we are guided by a five to seven person Advisory Board. The Advisory Board in turn elects a four person Executive Team from amongst its members.  

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​​ROLE OVERVIEW
Advisory Board members are dedicated Downtown Core residents committed to building community, amplifying resident voices, and fostering collaboration in the heart of Seattle.  They proactively listen to and work with their neighbors to champion their concerns and make our shared neighborhood a vibrant, sustainable and livable place where all can thrive.  Towards this end, they also work collaboratively with civic leaders, and community stakeholders to ensure downtown policies and initiatives reflect the lived experience of the people who call our neighborhood home.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Advisory Board members provide strategic guidance, community perspective, and leadership to the DCC.  Board members are expected to:

• Attend and actively participate in monthly Board Meetings

• Participate in at least one Working Group or Committee

• Support and advance the mission of the Downtown Community Council

• Help shape strategic priorities and evaluate organizational progres.

• Review and oversee budgets and organizational financial health

• Represent the perspectives and interests of downtown residents

• Contribute to fundraising, partnerships, and community engagement efforts

• Provide thoughtful feedback on reports, policy issues, and emerging recommendations.

QUALIFICATIONS (Required)

• Be a resident living within the DCC's geographic boundaries.  (Residents may live on the north side of the northern boundaries and the south side of the southern boundary). 

• Be at least 21 years of age.

• Board members are required to complete an annual Conflict of Interest disclosure.

 

 QUALIFICATIONS (Preferred)

Ideal candidates will demonstrate:

• Commitment to improving the livability and vitality of downtown.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

• Interest in civic engagement, public policy, or community leadership.

• Ability to work constructively with diverse perspectives and stakeholders

DESIRED EXPERIENCE 
The DCC seeks to form a diverse Board that refelcts the diversity of the community we serve and that meets the needs of the organization.  The Board could benefit from members with experience in any of the following. 

• Community leadership and civic engagement

• Public policy, urban planning, or housing

• Government relations or advocacy

• Nonprofit leadership or governance

• Finance, legal, or organizational management

• Communications, public relations, or marketing

• Fundraising or philanthropy

 

​TIME COMMITTMENT
Approximately 8 - 16 hours per month, including board meetings and communications, committee participation, preparation time, and related activities.

 

TERMS

Board members serve a two year term with a maximum of a three consecutive terms. However, for this first Board formation process, two to three members will serve a one year term followed by a maximum of two two-year terms, to achieve a staggered rotation of Board members.

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SELECTION PROCESS

All nominations will be reviewed by and board members selected by a separate Nominating Committee on which Board nominees are ineligible to participate. ​​​​