Multiple City boards seek members, including the Board of Health, Community Preservation Committee, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Conservation Commission, Licensing Board, Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee, and the Council on Aging. See more information about the boards and how to apply in the announcement from the City of Watertown, below.
City Manager George J. Proakis is seeking Watertown residents interested in serving on the following boards and committees:
The Board of Health fulfills its duties under MGL 111, 26-33 and other sections including enforcement of the state Sanitary and Environmental Codes, reporting diseases dangerous to the public health, and enforcement of other applicable state and local laws and regulations. The Board of Health determines the health needs of the community and the health services available to the community in terms of the size and characteristics of the population, specific health problems, and environmental conditions. Candidates should have a background in public health, medical, or related field.
The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) makes recommendations for the use of Community Preservation funds for initiatives related to open space, outdoor recreation, historic resources, and community housing. The CPC has the following key responsibilities: study the community preservation needs, possibilities, and resources of Watertown; solicit input from City Boards and Commissions and hold an annual public hearing to solicit public input; prepare a Community Preservation Plan and application process for vetting project proposals; vote on a slate of project recommendations and submit them to the City Council; submit an annual budget to the City Council; and keep records regarding all CPC meetings, project applications, funding recommendations, and annual budgetary reports.
The Zoning Board of Appeals plays an important role in the implementation of the City’s land use regulations. Under the provisions of the Zoning Code (Title XV, C.155), the Board of Appeals reviews and issues decisions on appeals, variances, and certain special permits, often working in consultation with the Planning Board. Candidates should have a background in law, planning, architecture, landscape architecture, engineering, construction, or any related fields.
The Planning Board is involved in long and short-range planning as well as implementation of the City’s land use regulations. Under the provisions of the Zoning Code (Title XV, C.155), the Planning Board considers applications for site plan review and some special permits and makes recommendations to the Zoning Board of Appeals and the City Council on other zoning and land use matters. Candidates should have a background in planning, architecture, landscape architecture, engineering, law, construction, or any related fields.
The Conservation Commission administers the MA Wetlands Protection Act (MGL, c.131, s.40) and regulations (310 CMR 10.00) and the Watertown Wetlands Ordinance (City Code c. 154). In this capacity, they review plans for activities that may affect the City’s wetlands, manage open space, and address other matters relating to conservation protection and enhancement of watershed, open space, passive recreational, and natural resource areas. Candidates should have a background in or knowledge of environmental science, landscape design, horticulture, or a related field
The Licensing Board issues all licenses in the City and has jurisdiction over licenses to sell alcohol; entertainment licenses; common victualer licenses; motor vehicle repair licenses; taxicab and livery licenses; and other licensed activities in the City. Candidates should have a background in law, business, or a related field. Member requirements are defined to be in compliance with MGL c.138, s.4.
The Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee works to promote non-motorized transportation in Watertown. The primary activities of the Committee are advocacy for the interests of bicyclists and pedestrians in road construction projects; sponsorship and organization of special bicycling events; advocacy for improved bicycle parking facilities; promotion of commuting alternatives; and providing relevant materials, both online and printed, for bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists.
The Council on Aging identifies, coordinates, and helps carry out programs to meet the needs and interests of Watertown residents age 60+. The Council conducts outreach; Identifies needs, interests, concerns, and strengths of residents age 60+; educates the broader community about these needs; formulates policies; and promotes and implements services and programs, working with professional staff and volunteers who provide a variety of social, health, educational, recreational, advocacy, and support programs.
Please visit the Boards and Commissions page and learn more.