Traffic circulation downtown, public art programs and operations at Redlands Municipal Airport are shaped in part by the city’s advisory commissions, which are currently seeking new members. (Photos by CFR)
REDLANDS, Calif. — The city of Redlands is seeking residents to serve on three advisory bodies that help shape local policy on traffic, arts and airport operations.
Why it matters: City commissions serve as a direct link between residents and local government, giving volunteers a chance to analyze issues, make recommendations and elevate community concerns before they reach the City Council. From traffic calming and parking strategies to public art, airport operations and long-range planning, many policy decisions begin in commission meetings. Service on a board is one of the most accessible ways for residents to influence how the city grows and invests.
Current openings
Openings are available on the Traffic and Parking Commission, the Cultural Arts Commission and the Airport Advisory Board. Members are appointed by the City Council and serve in unpaid roles. Applications are due Jan. 7, 2026.
Traffic and Parking Commission
The Traffic and Parking Commission reviews traffic issues, coordinates public education on traffic safety and recommends ways to improve traffic conditions and enforcement. The commission also advises the council on parking policies, long-term parking plans and the development of parking resources, particularly in the downtown business area. It may assist other advisory groups, including the Planning Commission.
The commission meets quarterly at 6 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of February, May, August and November.
Cultural Arts Commission
The Peloton Takes the Classic Curve by Kathleen King Steel sculpture is part of Redlands public art. (courtesy photo)
The Cultural Arts Commission promotes public interest in the arts, recommends programs and funding sources and advises on policies to encourage and support cultural development in Redlands. The commission also oversees the city’s Art in Public Places program.Recently, the cultural arts commission approved a land in Sylvan Park for the REACH Residency for local artists to bring community art to Redlands. The commission is currently working on the city's Arts and Culture Master Plan.
Meetings are held quarterly at 4 p.m. on the second Monday of March, June, September and December.
Airport Advisory Board
The Airport Advisory Board acts in an advisory capacity to the City Council on all matters related to the operation, development and maintenance of Redlands Municipal Airport.
The board meets quarterly at 6 p.m. on the third Thursday of January, April, July and October. Explore past agendas here.
Residents interested in serving may obtain an application from the City Clerk’s Office at 35 Cajon St., Suite 4, by calling (909) 798-7510, or by downloading the form from the city’s website at: www.cityofredlands.org/current-openings
Recent changes to commissions and boards
The recruitment period follows recent updates to the city’s approach to public participation. This month, the City Council voted to streamline the number of commissions and boards and to reduce the size of several advisory groups. Membership on the Airport Advisory Board, Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, Municipal Utilities and Public Works Commission, Traffic and Parking Commission, Cultural Arts Commission, Citrus Preservation Commission, Street Tree Committee and the Human Relations Commission was reduced from seven members to five.
Several commissions will also shift from bi-monthly meetings to quarterly ones, though each group may still call special meetings if urgent business arises. City staff said the changes are intended to streamline commission structures and align Redlands with best practices in similarly sized cities.
Read more about the restructuring and concerns raised by residents and local businesses.
A former local TV news producer, Stephanie launched CFR in 2023. Originally from Michigan, she’s made Redlands home with her husband and three kids. When she’s not reporting, she’s problem-solving at the climbing gym or trying new local restaurants.
Kathryne Mccann
