Applications Open for Washoe County Food Policy Council Positions

Help increase access to healthy food for all

Hungry to make a difference in our community?  Apply now for one of three vacant positions on the Washoe County Food Policy Council, a volunteer group organized to network, collaborate, promote, and support a vibrant, healthy and equitable local food system.

The Council was established by the Washoe County District Board of Health in 2011 to implement the Washoe County Food Plan and reduce barriers to healthy food. “I encourage interested citizens to apply for the Food Policy Council and help shape the future of our food system in Washoe County,” said Washoe County District Health Officer Kevin Dick. “This is a great opportunity for new members to contribute their skills, disciplines, and perspectives to pursue sustainable food policy solutions for our region.”

Potential applicants and any interested persons may attend a Council meeting.  Upcoming meetings are October 20 and December 1, 2017, from noon - 2 pm at the Washoe County Health District, 1001 E. 9^th Street, Building B, Reno. Meetings frequently feature guest speakers representing diverse aspects of the food system, and discussions on relevant food topics, special projects, research, education, legislation, and advocacy for favorable access-to-healthy-food policies. Applicants that have attended prior Council meetings will be given preference in selection the selection process.

Applications are available at http://wcfpc.org/our-work/get-involved/. Additional selection criteria include:

• Commitment to a term of at least two years requiring regular attendance and participation in meetings. (Meetings are typically held every fourth Friday of the month from noon – 2 pm);
• Active membership on at least one workgroup of the Council;
• Capacity to build collaborative relationships and bring resources to the effort; and,
• Passion for improving the food system in Washoe County. 

Recent Food Policy Council accomplishments include adding language to the Nevada Qualified Allocation Plan allowing developers to earn Low Income Housing Tax Credits if a development includes a community garden space.  The Council now is focused on the Reno Master Plan update and the opportunity to incorporate our vision for increased production of and access to healthy local foods.  The Council also regularly educates local lawmakers by making presentations and accepting healthy food access proclamations recognizing National Food Day when passed by commissioners and council members in Washoe County, the City of Reno, and the City of Sparks. 

For additional information on the Food Policy Council contact Kelli Goatley-Seals by phone or by email at (775) 328-6160 or kseals@washoecounty.us.

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