Town Government
Boards & Commissions
What Boards & Commissions Are
Beyond the Select Board and the School Committee, much of Sunderland’s governing happens on volunteer boards and commissions. They approve new development, hear zoning appeals, protect the wetlands and the Connecticut River corridor, weigh in on historic places, 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, and the Finance Committee is appointed by the Town Moderator. 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 Sunderland’s wetlands, river frontage, and open space.
- Finance Committee has nine seats, appointed by the Town Moderator, and advises Town Meeting on the budget.
- Board of Health oversees inspections, septic rules, and public health.
- Agricultural Commission supports the farms that have worked the valley soil for generations.
- Historical Commission helps protect the town’s historic buildings and places.
For the full roster, current members, vacancies, and schedules, see townofsunderland.us.
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 Sunderland.