Vacancies
Volunteer Opportunities
The City of Reading has many opportunities for residents to be involved in decisions made by their local government. Four boards, authorities, and commissions (BACs) are highlighted below along with a comprehensive list of all openings on City BACs.
Are you interested in how local government works? Become a member of the Citizens Initiative Commission. This Commission will communicate between government and residents on policies and issues related to neighborhood quality of life and will assist in an advisory capacity with other community issues by recommending policy changes, legislative recommendations, and operational improvements. The Committee will then assist with educating the general public on the mechanics of City government and major issues being addressed by City government.
The Charter Board hears and decides cases alleging violations of the Reading Charter or Administrative Code. The Board also issues binding opinions, can impose penalties and administrative fines, refer cases for prosecution, and conduct investigations.
The Charter Board is also responsible for educating the public and members of City government about their rights, duties, and obligations under the Charter and Administrative Code.
The Ethics Board was approved by referendum in the General Election as part of the Home Rule Charter. The purpose of the Ethics Board is to hear and decide all cases alleging violations of the Code of Ethics. Insofar as permitted by state law the Board shall issue advisory opinions, binding opinions, impose penalties and administrative fines, refer cases for prosecution, and conduct investigations on its own initiative and on referral or complaint. The Ethics Board must also educate elected and appointed officials, employees, and the public about the Code of Ethics.
Do you live in one of the City’s historic districts? Or want to help preserve the City’s historical architecture? The Reading Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) works to protect areas, buildings and structures which reflect the cultural, social, and architectural history of the City, awaken an interest in the City’s historic past, foster civic pride in the architectural, historical, cultural and educational accomplishments of Reading, promotes the use and reuse of the historic areas, buildings and structures, which will enhance the City's attractiveness to visitors, encourage new buildings and developments that are harmonious with existing historic and architecturally important buildings, and actively participates in the National Register of Historic Places program.
Plumbing Board 2 alternate openings
Mechnical (HVAC) Board 1 opening
Zoning Hearing Board 2 alternate openings
Board of Ethics 2 openings
Bldg/Fire Code Board of Appeals 1 opening + 1 alternate opening – building and trades experience needed
Charter Board 2 openings
Code & License Appeals Board 3 alternate openings – must be a business owner, resident, or member of a community group
Equal Business Opportunity Adv Bd 3 openings – must be a minority business owner or a procurement professional
Environmental Advisory Council 2 openings
Conversion Therapy Mental Health 3 openings
Services Board
Water Authority 2 openings
Planning Commission 2 openings
Shade Tree Commission 2 openings
Human Relations Commission 3 openings
Recreation Commission 1 opening
Youth Commission (age 16 - 24) 4 openings
Citizens Initiative Committee 11 openings
All interested citizens should complete the BAC application form found on the City’s website – www.readingpa.gov – and return it to the City Clerk’s office, 815 Washington St, Reading, PA 19601. For additional information, please call the City Clerk’s office at 610-655-6204 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..