Town Government
Boards & Commissions
What Boards & Commissions Are
Beyond the Selectboard and the School Committee, much of Princeton’s governing happens on volunteer boards and commissions. They approve new development, hear zoning appeals, protect the town’s wetlands, forests, and the slopes of Wachusett Mountain, 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 appointed by the Selectboard and serve fixed terms, though a few are elected town-wide. The meetings are public, and 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 Princeton’s wetlands, streams, and open space.
- Advisory Committee reviews the budget and advises Town Meeting on spending.
- Board of Health oversees inspections, permits, and public health rules.
- Light Commissioners are elected town-wide to govern the Princeton Municipal Light Department.
For the full roster, current members, vacancies, and schedules, see princetonma.gov.
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 Princeton.