Town Government
Boards & Commissions
What Boards & Commissions Are
Beyond the Selectboard and the School Committee, much of Gill’s governing happens on volunteer boards and commissions. They review new development, hear zoning appeals, protect the wetlands along the Connecticut River, weigh in on historic places, and advise Town Meeting on the budget. They are the rooms where an ordinary resident can have the most direct hand in a decision.
Most members are elected town-wide or appointed by the Selectboard and serve fixed terms. The meetings are public, and seats open up regularly.
Key Boards & Commissions
- Planning Board reviews subdivisions, site plans, and major development. Chaired by Mark Beaudry.
- Zoning Board of Appeals hears variances and special permits.
- Conservation Commission protects Gill’s wetlands, the riverfront, and open space. Chaired by Brian Donahue.
- Finance Committee reviews the budget and advises Town Meeting on spending.
- Board of Health oversees inspections, septic and well permits, and public health rules. Chaired by Leslie Wheeler.
- Historical Commission and the Agricultural Commission weigh in on Gill’s historic places and its working farmland.
For the full roster, current members, vacancies, and schedules, see gillmass.org.
How to Serve
- Find an opening on the town’s boards and committees page.
- Submit a letter of interest or application to the Selectboard office.
- Interview if asked, and await appointment by the Selectboard.
- Serve: attend the public meetings and help make decisions for your town.
Serving on a board is one of the most direct ways to shape Gill.