Town Government
Boards & Commissions
What Boards & Commissions Are
Beyond the Select Board and the School Committee, much of Peru’s governing happens on volunteer boards and commissions. They review new development, hear zoning appeals, protect the town’s wetlands and open space on the Berkshire plateau, weigh in on historic places, and advise Town Meeting on how the money is spent. 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 interested neighbor can make a real difference.
Some members are elected town-wide and others are appointed by the Select Board; all serve fixed terms. The meetings are public, and because Peru is small, seats open up regularly.
Key Boards & Commissions
- Planning Board reviews subdivisions, site plans, and major development.
- Zoning Board of Appeals hears variances and special permits.
- Conservation Commission protects Peru’s wetlands and open space.
- Finance Committee reviews the budget and advises Town Meeting on spending.
- Board of Health oversees inspections, permits, and public health rules.
- Historical Commission works to identify and protect the town’s historic places.
For the full roster, current members, vacancies, and schedules, see townofperuma.com.
How to Serve
- Find an opening on the town’s boards and committees page.
- Submit a letter of interest or application to the Select Board office.
- Interview if asked, and await appointment by the Select Board.
- 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 Peru.