The City of Aberdeen is inviting residents to apply for openings on two advisory committees that help guide important city decisions: the Utility Rate Advisory Committee (URAC) and the City of Aberdeen Ethics Committee.
City officials say the committees provide an opportunity for community members to play a direct role in shaping local policy, transparency, and financial planning.
The Utility Rate Advisory Committee currently has vacancies for representatives from Ward 1, Ward 3, and Ward 5. The committee reviews the city’s utility rate structures and provides recommendations to the mayor and city council regarding rates for services such as water, sewer, stormwater, and EMS.
Members of the URAC review financial and operational information related to utilities and help evaluate whether proposed rates are fair, sustainable, and aligned with the long-term needs of the community. The committee may also advise the city council on rate-setting considerations based on service levels and revenue needs, while helping promote public understanding of the city’s utility and EMS programs.
The committee consists of seven members, all of whom must live within Aberdeen city limits. Members must be 18 years or older and reside in the ward they represent. Individuals employed by the City of Aberdeen are not eligible to serve.
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In addition to URAC vacancies, the city is also recruiting two community members for the City’s Ethics Committee. This committee reviews ethics complaints and helps ensure the city maintains adherence to ethical standards in government operations.
City Council President Sydney Swor said the committees are an important way for residents to participate in the decision-making process.
“This committee provides residents with a meaningful opportunity to be directly involved in one of the most important financial decisions affecting our community,” Swor said. “Utility rates fund essential infrastructure and services, and citizen input is critical to maintaining transparency and public trust.”
City Administrator Ruth Clemens also emphasized the city’s focus on increasing community engagement.
“One of the goals of the Council has been to engage the community,” Clemens said. “This year will be full of opportunities for the community to get involved because of engagements like the Aberdeen 101 Civics Academy, the town halls we plan to host in the coming months, and the inclusion of community members on advisory committees.”
Residents interested in serving on either committee are encouraged to submit a letter of interest that includes their name, address, ward (if known), and a statement of interest.
Letters can be mailed to:
Ruth Clemens, City Administrator
Aberdeen City Hall
200 E. Market Street
Aberdeen, WA 98520
Applications may also be submitted by email to
Applications will be accepted through the close of business on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Residents who are unsure which ward they live in or who want more information about the committees can contact the city by email or call (360) 537-3233.
The selected applicants will be forwarded to the Aberdeen City Council for formal approval. If no applicants come forward, the mayor may appoint individuals from any ward to fill the positions.
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