EPHRATA — The Ephrata Parks Commission, which serves as an advisory group to the Ephrata City Council, has two vacant board seats.  

"Parks commissioners help make sure our parks and programs are moving in the right direction for the community,” Ephrata Parks and Recreation Director Josh Johnson wrote in a statement from the city. “Their input helps us improve the spaces people use every day, whether that's playgrounds, trails, sports fields, or community events. At the end of the day, better parks help create a better quality of life for anyone in Ephrata." 

The Parks Commission does not have its own budget; however, it makes recommendations to the city council on capital projects and operations and maintenance needs for the city. Any recommendations will be considered for approval by the council. The commission may also hold focus groups or other public meetings to gather community input.  

The commission meets at noon on the first Monday of the month at the Ephrata Recreation Center. Board members may need to spend additional time to prepare for meetings and participate in focus groups or related activities.  

“The Parks Commission is important. We have all seen the amazing benefits of how the added amenities to Lion's Park and how much activity it is experiencing. To add those same enhancements to our other parks will help our kids stay active and outdoors. The beauty of our parks needs to be preserved and enhanced to ensure our arid desert climate has many oases for our kids to play and grow in a safe and healthy environment,” Ephrata Mayor Steve Oliver said in a statement from the city.  

To apply for the open positions, send a letter of interest to Johnson at [email protected] or drop it off at the Ephrata Recreation Center during regular business hours.  

Letters of interest will be reviewed and selected candidates will be appointed by the mayor.  

To apply:  

Email a letter of interest to [email protected] or drop it off at Ephrata Recreation Center.