The East Pierce Fire and Rescue Board of Fire Commissioners is seeking candidates to fill a vacancy following the retirement of Commissioner Rick Kuss.

The appointed commissioner will serve until the November general election, and may choose to file and run for the office.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, a registered voter and reside within the boundaries of the fire district. East Pierce provides service to Bonney Lake, Edgewood, Sumner, Milton and much of unincorporated East Pierce County.

To apply, citizens may submit a letter of interest, between March 23 and April 6, describing their interest and qualifications. Applications may be sent via email to Mhollon@eastpiercefire.org, or dropped off at the East Pierce headquarters station, at 18421 Veterans Memorial Dr. E. Bonney Lake, during normal business hours. A background check is required prior to appointment.

Commissioners typically serve six-year terms. Due to the Edgewood and Milton mergers, candidates running for commissioner will have the option of a two-year or four-year term.

The East Pierce Fire Commissioners form a seven-member board elected by the public. The board meets monthly to determine levels of service; establish goals, type and level of funding; approve budgets; establish tax levies; approve policies and operational procedures; employ key personnel and supervise the fire chief; guide strategic planning and represent the district to the public. All regular meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month. Meetings are open to the public and offer residents an opportunity for citizen input.

Additional information is available at www.eastpiercefire.org.