The City of Odessa has a number of advisory boards and commissions comprised of volunteers from the community who serve without compensation. Generally, these commissions make recommendations to the Mayor and Aldermen regarding actions and policies affecting municipal government, city departments, and the community.
SERVING ON A BOARD
Citizens who desire to serve on a city board or commission may apply by filling out the online Boards and Commissions Application. You must be 18 years or older and live within the city limits of Odessa to apply.
All meetings are open to the public.
For information about serving on a Community Focus Group go here.
Board of Adjustment
The Board of Adjustment is a five-member body appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Board of Aldermen. The Board is responsible for carrying out specific duties outlined in city code, including reviewing and deciding on matters related to zoning regulations. Members serve five-year terms, with alternates available to serve when needed. The Board operates independently and elects its own chairperson annually.
William "BJ" Begeman, Co-Chairman
Christine Fleehart
Stan Jones
Board of Appeals
The Board of Appeals is appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Board of Aldermen to hear and decide appeals related to decisions, orders, or interpretations made by the city’s code official. Individuals directly affected by a ruling may submit a written appeal within a specified timeframe. The Board reviews each case, follows established procedures, and issues written decisions. Its role is to ensure that city codes are correctly interpreted and applied, but it does not have the authority to waive or change code requirements.
Ernie Cockrum
Brandon Murry
Rick Barker
Dennis Summers
Parks & Recreation Board
The Parks and Recreation Board is a nine-member body appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Board of Aldermen. Members must be city residents for at least one year prior to appointment and serve three-year terms.
The Board is responsible for the planning, development, and maintenance of the city’s parks and recreational facilities and programs. It oversees the park system, manages park-related funds, and has authority over the care, improvement, and operation of park properties. The Board also establishes its own leadership and adopts rules to guide its work, ensuring the continued growth and quality of the community’s parks and recreation opportunities.
Jannan Bradley, PresidentVacant, Vice President
Madeline Carrigan, Secretary
John Carmody, Treasurer
Mike Duncan, Sergeant at Arms
Tracy Peter
John Elliot
Logan Seals
Alan Barner
Derick Barker
Planning & Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission is a seven-member body appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Board of Aldermen. Members are city residents who serve four-year terms without compensation, and an Alderman may be appointed annually to serve as a non-voting liaison.
The Commission is responsible for guiding the city’s growth and development through long-range planning and zoning oversight. This includes reviewing and making recommendations on land use, residential and commercial development, building and construction codes, and related policies. The Commission also develops plans for the city’s physical development and advises elected officials on planning initiatives, ordinances, and community development matters.
Matthew Modlin, Chair
Steve Nance, Secretary
Mary Bertram
VACANT
Seth Howerton
David Badgley
Bill Hunt
Finance Committee (Board of Aldermen)
The Finance Committee is a three-member committee of the Board of Aldermen, with one representative from each ward. Members are appointed annually by the Mayor and approved by the Board of Aldermen, serving one-year terms.
The Committee is responsible for overseeing the city’s financial activities, including budgeting, expenditures, and fiscal policies. It reviews claims for payment, evaluates financial proposals, and ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The Finance Committee meets regularly, maintains records of its proceedings, and provides reports and recommendations to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen to support responsible financial management.
Alderman Bruce Whitsitt, Chair
Alderwoman Karla Polson
Alderman Mike Plachte
