The City of Auburn Council created the Auburn’s first honorary position of poet laureate on Monday. Nominations are being accepted to officially appoint the poet.

The idea of having a designated poet laureate for Auburn was initially proposed from a community member and readily embraced by the Arts Commission.

“By creating this honorary position,” said Arts Commissioner Linda Elliott, “we are excited to be able to celebrate literary arts and artists in this community.”

The specific criteria for the appointment of the poet laureate are based on their involvement and commitment to the community, literary excellence and continued pursuit of the craft.

During the three-year term, the poet laureate is expected to share their love of poetry with the city and create occasional poems for specific civic events.

Any organization or individual who wishes to nominate a poet for the position of Auburn’s first poet laureate may submit documents for consideration (self-nominations not accepted). Application receipt deadline is Nov. 30.

The poet laureate nomination form and overview are available on the City of Auburn Cultural Arts website or by contacting the Parks, Arts and Recreation Department, 253-931-3043, 910 Ninth St. SE.