Marlborough Needs Volunteers For City Boards, Commissions

MARLBOROUGH, MA — Now's your chance to make a little change in Marlborough.

Some of the city's most important boards and commissions have openings right now, and the main qualification is that you be a resident of Marlborough — and have a genuine interest in the business of the city.

Mayor Arthur Vigeant will review applications from residents and appoint the new members, with final approval from the City Council. To apply, email a resume and cover letter to Nathan Boudreau (nathan.boudreau@marlborough-ma.gov), or mail to the mayor's office at 140 Main St., 4th Floor.

Here are the boards and commission that have openings, and a brief description from the mayor's office about what each one does:

Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA): The purpose of the ZBA is to hear and decide applications for variances concerning land or structures. The ZBA will also decide appeals from decisions of administrative officials of the City made under the Zoning Ordinances.

Planning Board: The Planning Board of the City of Marlborough is a seven-member Board comprised of individuals appointed by the Mayor and the City Council. In the City of Marlborough, the Planning Board is primarily concerned with any subdivision of land. The Board is also the special permit granting authority for any "Open Space" subdivision issued under the authority of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Marlborough (Chapter 200). Additionally, the Board also reviews any requests for relief or variance from the City's Sign Ordinance and the special permit granting authority for work on any of the City's Scenic Roads.

Commission on Disabilities: The Commission on Disabilities' function is to address the needs and concerns of residents with disabilities and promote their full participation in the activities and services of Marlborough. To promote equal access to community life and events for people with disabilities, the Marlborough Commission on Disabilities serves as an advisory board to the City. The Commission is also a resource for individuals with disabilities regarding programs and services provided by state and local governments.

Council on Aging: The Council on Aging promotes healthy, successful aging to enhance the quality of life for all Marlborough's elder citizens. To that end, we strive to provide comprehensive services and programs for individuals age 60 or older.

Marlborough Cultural Council: The mission of the Cultural Council is to promote excellence, access, education, and diversity in the arts, humanities, and sciences to improve the quality of life for Marlborough residents and to contribute to the economic vitality of our community. Cultural Council grants are allocated public dollars from the state provided by the Governor and State Legislature.