Town Government
Boards & Commissions
What Boards & Commissions Are
Beyond the Select Board and the School Committee, much of Huntington’s governing happens on volunteer boards and commissions. They review new construction, hear zoning appeals, protect the wetlands along the Westfield River, advise Town Meeting on the budget, and guide services for residents. They are the rooms where an ordinary resident can have the most direct hand in a decision, and in a town this size a single volunteer makes a real difference.
Some members are elected at the annual town election and others are appointed by the Select Board, each serving fixed terms. The meetings are public, and seats open up regularly.
Key Boards & Commissions
- Planning Board reviews subdivisions, site plans, and land use. Chair Linda Hamlin.
- Zoning Board of Appeals hears variances and special permits. Chair Karon Hathaway.
- Conservation Commission protects Huntington’s wetlands, the Westfield River, and open space. Chair Michael Vorwerk.
- Finance Committee reviews the budget and advises Town Meeting on spending.
- Board of Assessors sets property values for the tax rate. Chair Christine Stochlinski.
- Board of Health oversees inspections, septic rules, and public health. Chair George Peterson.
- Historical Commission works to preserve the town’s historic places. Chair David Norton.
For the full roster, current members, vacancies, and schedules, see huntingtonma.us.
How to Serve
- Find an opening on the town’s boards and committees page, or an elected seat on the annual town election ballot.
- Submit a letter of interest or application to the Selectboard office, or take out nomination papers from the Town Clerk.
- Interview or run, then await appointment by the Select Board or a vote at the town election.
- 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 Huntington.