Town Government
Boards & Commissions
What Boards & Commissions Are
Beyond the Select Board and the School Committee, much of Richmond’s governing happens on volunteer boards and commissions. They review new development, hear zoning appeals, protect the town’s wetlands, farmland, and open space around Richmond Pond and the ridgelines, 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.
Most members are appointed by the Select Board 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.
- Board of Appeals hears zoning variances and special permits.
- Conservation Commission protects Richmond’s wetlands, streams, and open space.
- Finance Committee reviews the budget and advises Town Meeting on spending.
- Board of Health oversees inspections, septic and well permits, and public health rules.
- Agricultural and Historical Commissions support the town’s working farms and its historic places.
For the full roster, current members, vacancies, and schedules, see richmondma.org.
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 Richmond.