The town has a variety of volunteer opportunities that call for light, medium, or heavy time commitments and for specific skills or no particular skills at all, only an interest in the board’s work and willingness to learn.  We—the Board of Selectmen—are providing you with information that we hope will pique your interest.  This column focuses on the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).

Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA)

The Zoning Board of Appeals is a quasi-judicial board that operates under the mandates of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40A and the town’s bylaws.  The ZBA hears and decides applications for special permits, petitions for variances from the terms of the zoning bylaw, site plan approvals as mandated by the zoning bylaw, and appeals from decisions of the Zoning Enforcement Officer (Building Commissioner).

The board has five members and three associate members appointed by the Board of Selectmen for three-year terms.  Generally, five of the eight members are assigned to each case.  Currently, there are two openings for full membership.  The board generally meets twice a month, with more or fewer meetings as needed.

Why should you consider applying for a position on the ZBA?  Former member Jim Grumbach said, “I found the ZBA a great way to meet townspeople, learn about different neighborhoods, work collaboratively with other board members, and be part of the town’s decision-making.”  Maybe you will too!