Join the Somerville Zoning Board of Appeals

The City of Somerville is seeking a new member to join the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).

About the Somerville Zoning Board of Appeals

The goals of the Zoning Board of Appeals are to:

1. Decide on requests for Hardship Variances and handle appeals related to administrative decisions.
2. Review special permits or administrative permits for certain zoning areas (NR and UR districts).
3. Consider appeals made against administrative decisions or enforcement actions.
4. Manage and review requests under the Comprehensive Permit process (MGL Chapter 40B).
5. Participate in public hearings, contribute thoughtful and unbiased opinions, and engage in informed discussions.

What is the Time Commitment?

The position’s term length is February 1, 2024, through January 31, 2027. The ZBA meets every first and third Wednesday of the month, with meetings lasting between one and two hours. Additional time for review of submitted materials may be needed, for an estimated total of 5 hours per month.
 

What is the Appointment Process?

Members are appointed by the City Council after a review by the Appointments Advisory Committee.
 

How Do I Apply?

Resumes and a cover letter can be sent via email or U.S. Mail to:

• Email: planning@somervillema.gov  
• Mail: Planning, Preservation & Zoning Division, 93 Highland Ave., Somerville, MA 02143
   

For questions or more information, contact Adam Graminski at agraminski@somervillema.gov.

Persons with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e., CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to access the programs, activities, and meetings of the City of Somerville should please contact Adrienne Pomeroy in advance at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or apomeroy@somervillema.gov.  

Efforts to secure interpretation into any language will be made upon advance request (at least seven days in advance) by contacting the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs at somervillema.gov/ContactSomerViva or calling 311 at 617-666-3311.