Serving on a local board or commission is a meaningful way to give back to your community. But let’s be honest — the work isn’t always easy. Appointees quickly discover that even though the role is rewarding, it comes with its share of challenges.
The good news is you’re not alone. Many appointees experience the same hurdles, and with the right mindset and tools, you can navigate them successfully. Here are some of the most common challenges board and commission members face — and practical ways to overcome them.
Information Overload
One of the first things new appointees notice is the paperwork. Meeting packets can be hundreds of pages long — especially if your board is reviewing a new mixed-use development proposal, a citywide budget, or a comprehensive community survey or assessment. These packets often include staff reports, technical data, maps, financial breakdowns, and legal opinions.
On top of that, the language can feel overwhelming. Acronyms like RFP (Request for Proposals) or CIP (Capital Improvement Plan) may be tossed around with little explanation. It’s easy to feel out of place, or even hesitant to ask what something means.
The solution: Don’t try to absorb everything at once. Focus on the agenda and the decisions your board will be asked to make. Skim for the key points that directly affect the discussion, and don’t hesitate to ask your staff liaison for plain-language summaries. Local staff want board members to feel confident and engaged — they’ll appreciate your questions. And remember: if you’re confused by jargon or acronyms, chances are others are too. Asking for clarity is part of your job, not a weakness.
Finding Your Place and Voice on the Board
Whether you’re a newcomer trying to figure out how to contribute or a veteran whose ideas haven’t gained traction, it can be frustrating to feel like your voice doesn’t carry weight. This is one of the most common challenges board members face — and it can leave you questioning your impact.
The solution: Start by listening and observing how discussions unfold, but don’t stay silent for long. Ask thoughtful questions, volunteer for subcommittees or special projects, and build relationships with other members outside of meetings. Influence often grows gradually — as your peers see your preparation, respect, and persistence, your contributions will carry more weight.
Group Dynamics and Conflicts
Boards and commissions bring together people with different experiences, perspectives, and personalities. That diversity is valuable, but it can also lead to tension. Disagreements — or even clashing styles — can make it hard to move forward.
The solution: Remember that healthy disagreement is part of the process. Listen actively, acknowledge other viewpoints, and look for areas of common ground. Sometimes, simply showing respect for others’ perspectives makes it easier to find consensus. Over time, you’ll also develop stronger working relationships that make collaboration more effective.
Time Commitment
Serving on a board isn’t just about attending meetings. You’ll need time to review materials, connect with community members, and sometimes attend events or hearings. Add that to work and family responsibilities, and it can start to feel like too much.
The solution: Set realistic boundaries from the beginning. Establish a routine for reviewing meeting packets — maybe an hour each week instead of a single cram session. Block out time on your calendar for meetings in advance. And be honest with yourself and your fellow members about what you can and can’t commit to. Sustainable participation is about managing your time, not overextending yourself.
Progress vs. Practical
Many appointees step into service with big goals and passionate ideas. But then reality sets in: progress can be slow. Shifting policies, changing minds, or building community support often takes months or even years. That gap between passion and pace can feel discouraging.
The solution: Adjust your expectations early. Understand that lasting change doesn’t happen overnight. Focus on what’s practical, celebrate small steps forward, and recognize that persistence is part of the process. Over time, those small wins build momentum and can lead to real transformation.
Staying Engaged Over Time
The excitement of being appointed can wear off after the first few meetings. Long terms, slow progress, and repeated challenges can lead to burnout or disengagement. It’s a common experience — and it’s one of the main reasons appointees struggle to stay active.
The solution: Revisit your original goals and remind yourself why you stepped up to serve in the first place and don’t isolate yourself. Seek out peers who understand what you’re going through. By joining GoLocal’s network, you’ll connect with fellow commissioners and board members across the country who are navigating the same challenges. Together, you can share advice, celebrate wins, and work toward solutions on both local and national issues.
Why This Matters
The challenges appointees face are real, but so are the opportunities. With preparation, patience, and persistence, you can navigate the bumps in the road and make a lasting impact on your community. And remember — you don’t have to do it alone.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Every community needs residents who are willing to step forward. Start by searching for a role in your city or county — it’s one of the most direct ways to get involved. If you’re already serving, know that the challenges you face are shared by many, and the solutions are within reach.
At GoLocal, we help appointees like you overcome obstacles and thrive in their roles. Explore our resources, trainings, and tools to strengthen your service, follow our newsletter to join future events and get updates when new blogs are added, and contact us to learn how we can help your community get more involved.
