More than half of the Lynnwood Arts Commission members resigned their positions in December, citing a lack of support for the arts.

It turns out the problem isn’t limited to the Arts Commission.

The city is now considering a change that will allow residents who live outside the city limits to serve on commissions.

Both the Arts Commission and the Neighborhoods & Demographic Diversity Advisory Commission made the request because they’re having trouble filling vacant slots.

“Although the remaining Commissioners are dedicated to their positions, the lack of quorum precludes them from being able to fully engage in their planned activities. The Historical Commission and the Library Board are also experiencing difficulties in filling vacancies,” Parks and Rec Director Lynn Sordel wrote in a memo to the city council.

Sordel said the city’s volunteer coordinator receives inquiries from people who believe they are a part of the Lynnwood community, but they can’t serve on a board or commission because they live beyond the city boundary.

The proposed change would require a majority (four positions) of an advisory body’s positions be made up of city residents. The remaining three positions may be considered “at large” and be filled by people living in Lynnwood’s municipal urban growth area (MUGA), people who own or work at a business located in the city limits, or people with a vested interest in the community.

Another proposed change would reduce the number of positions on the Arts Commission from seven to five. Currently only two members are serving.

The city council will discuss the matter at Monday night’s meeting.

A list of open volunteer positions can be found on the city’s website.