Volunteer Opportunities - Cambridge Boards & Commissions

Member Sought to Fill Vacancy on Cambridge Housing Authority Board of Commissioners

Dec 10, 2024 – The Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) was established in 1935. It provides long-term rental housing and rental assistance. More than 10,000 low-income families, elders, and disabled individuals receive this assistance. CHA invests in Cambridge families and provides enhanced support to 10% of the city population. The CHA mission is to develop and manage safe, good quality, affordable housing for low-income individuals and families in a manner which promotes citizenship, community and self-reliance in one of the most expensive housing markets in the country. Learn more about Cambridge Housing Authority.

The Board of Commissioners is a five-member Board with each member serving five years. One member is appointed by the Governor of Massachusetts; the remaining four members are appointed by the Cambridge City Manager and confirmed by the Cambridge City Council. All Board members must be residents of Cambridge, and one member must physically reside in CHA/affiliate owned housing. Currently, the city is seeking to fill the seat held by a resident of CHA/affiliate owned housing.

The CHA Board oversees the Agency’s direction. This includes approving:

• Contract awards
• Budget decisions
• Formal submissions to state and federal funding agencies
• Planning and reporting documents
• Major policy decisions

Commissioners also serve as board members on CHA’s five non-profit affiliates. The Board appoints an Executive Director to oversee the housing authority and implement the Board’s policies.

For this vacant seat, applicants must be residents of CHA/affiliate-owned housing. Cambridge Housing Authority commissioners should believe in the mission of the Housing Authority and the urgent need for affordable housing in Cambridge. Preferred skills include:

• Computer literacy to participate in hybrid meetings
• Ability to interact with the public
• Advocacy skills

Applications to serve on the Board can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process.

The application deadline is Monday, January 27, 2025.

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Cambridge Climate Committee Vacancy

Nov 25, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking people interested in serving on the Cambridge Climate Committee.

What is the Climate Committee?
The Climate Committee is a volunteer group of community members who work together to provide feedback and ideas to the City on topics related to climate change. It was formerly known as the Climate Protection Action Committee. The Committee is made up of 15 to 20 members who are appointed by the City Manager. Five seats are currently open to applicants. Regular members generally serve a 2-year term starting in February 2025.

What is the role of the Climate Committee?
The Climate Committee has three roles that help the City reduce climate change impacts, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase equity, and serve as a partner to and example for other communities:

• Provide feedback and ideas to the City on ways to reduce and live with climate change while prioritizing the needs of the most at-risk populations.
• Share information about City climate programs with community members, listen to community concerns, and raise feedback with City staff so programs effectively serve all community members.
• Stay informed about the City’s climate goals and provide accountability and feedback on barriers and opportunities to improve effectiveness.

Who can apply to join the Climate Committee?
All Climate Committee members must live or work in Cambridge. There is no age requirement. There is no requirement for a technical background to serve on the Committee; members should be interested in and understand climate change through lived or work experience. Members will have deep connections to communities in Cambridge, especially those most impacted by climate change, so that the Committee can represent the diversity of the City.

What kind of skills and abilities do you need to effectively serve on the Climate Committee?
Members of the Climate Committee should be able to:

• Participate in a collaborative process with other Committee members;
• Consider diverse ideas and perspectives;
• Show connections to the broader community;
• Be interested in learning more about the impacts of climate change;
• Actively contribute to meetings in dialogue with City staff and other community members;
• Members do not need to have technical knowledge or knowledge of the City’s plans, but should be open to learning more about these and sharing with their communities.

How much of a time commitment is the Climate Committee?
The Climate Committee currently meets on the second Thursday of each month from 6-8pm, at the Cambridge City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway. This schedule may be changed to accommodate Committee needs and member schedules. Members are expected to attend all meetings, and should expect to spend an average of 1-2 hours each month outside of meeting time on activities such as:

• Sharing information and opportunities for engagement on City climate initiatives with their communities;
• Collecting feedback on initiatives or programs to share back with the Committee planning events reviewing programs/projects.

How can I apply?
Individuals interested in being considered should apply using the City’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply and selecting “Cambridge Climate Committee” in the list of Current Vacancies. A resume and cover letter describing why you want to join the committee, or an overview of relevant experience, can be submitted during the online application process, but is not required. For more information on the application process, please contact boards@cambridgema.gov.

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, January 13, 2025.

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Cambridge City Manager Seeks Members for New Broadway Safety Improvement Project Working Group

Nov 19, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking volunteers to serve on a Broadway Safety Improvement Project Working Group.

The City of Cambridge is installing separated bike lanes on Broadway between Quincy Street and Portland Street. This project will:

• Change the Street’s Layout. With quick-build materials, the City of Cambridge will incorporate new pavement markings, traffic signs, and flex posts. Separated bike lanes will be installed along the curb, providing a safer space for cyclists, separated from moving traffic by white flex posts or other physical barriers.
• Create Traffic Calming Measures. Street improvements will help slow down traffic, making Broadway safer for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
• Reduce Parking. This project will reduce on-street parking. We expect to maintain about 25% of the current spaces. We’ll work closely with businesses and residents to determine the best use for the remaining parking and loading areas.

These changes will help us meet the requirements of the Cambridge Cycling Safety Ordinance; support our Vision Zero goal to eliminate crashes resulting in fatalities and serious injuries; and bring us closer to realizing the Cambridge Bicycle Network Vision.

The Broadway Safety Improvement Project Working group will be responsible for advising on the design and implementation of safety improvements on Broadway, including the installation of the separated bike lanes.

Individuals who are excited about shaping the future of Broadway and want to work collaboratively to accomplish the goals above are encouraged to apply. The Working Group will include residents, business owners, institutional representatives, and a variety of people who use the corridor to live, work, walk, bike, drive, or take the bus.

The Working Group is expected to be made up of 12-15 members, representing a diverse set of interests along the Broadway corridor. It is anticipated that the group will meet 8 to 10 times over a 1.5-year period between Spring 2025 and Fall 2026, though exact meeting dates have not been yet established. Working Group meetings will be open to the public.

Applications to serve on the Working Group can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. The application deadline is Monday, December 30, 2024. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. For more information, contact Andreas Wolfe, Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department at awolfe@cambridgema.gov.

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Members Sought for Three Cambridge Neighborhood Conservation Districts - deadline extended to Mon, Jan 27, 2024

Nov 18, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking to fill vacancies for members and alternate members on the following Cambridge Neighborhood Conservation District (NCD) Commissions: Mid-Cambridge, Avon Hill, and Half Crown-Marsh.

Neighborhood Conservation Districts were established by city ordinance in 1983. Conservation district designation recognizes a distinctive physical environment that reflects the architectural, cultural, political, economic, or social history of the city. NCDs foster wider public knowledge and appreciation of such neighborhoods. Designation encourages the conservation and maintenance of these areas so that the city may be a more attractive and desirable place in which to live and work.

Each NCD commission includes seven members and three alternates. Appointments to these Commissions are made by the City Manager, with approval by the Cambridge City Council. Most members must reside in the respective district; renters, property owners and business operators are encouraged to apply. More information and maps of each NCD are available through the following links:

Avon Hill NCD, Cambridgema.gov/avonhillncd
Half Crown-Marsh NCD, Cambridgema.gov/halfcrownmarshncd
Mid-Cambridge NCD, Cambridgema.gov/midcambridgencd

The volunteer commissions meet monthly and are supported by the professional staff of the Cambridge Historical Commission. Applicants should have knowledge and concern for improvement, conservation, and enhancement of the district. The composition of each Commission shall represent the diversity of the designated neighborhood in terms of age, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and property ownership or tenancy.

Individuals interested in being considered should apply through the city’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply and select the respective commission. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. The deadline for submitting applications has been extended to Mon, Jan 27, 2024

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Members Sought for Cambridge Historical Commission - deadline extended to Mon, Jan 27, 2024

Nov 15, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking to fill vacancies for members and alternate members of the Cambridge Historical Commission.

What is the Role of the Cambridge Historical Commission?
The Cambridge Historical Commission, a citywide body of seven members and three alternates, establishes historic preservation policy for the city and administers two historic districts, the Harvard Square Conservation District, the citywide landmark and demolition ordinances, and the preservation grant program for rehabilitation assistance. View additional information, including past agendas and meeting minutes of the Cambridge Historical Commission

What Skills are Needed to serve on the Historical Commission?
Applicants should have an interest or experience in architecture and local history and be committed to protecting the historic resources and built environment of the City of Cambridge. Appointments to the Commission are made by the City Manager, and approved by the City Council. Members are supported by the professional staff of the Cambridge Historical Commission.

When does the Historical Commission Meet?
The Cambridge Historical Commission usually meets remotely via Zoom webinar on the first Thursday of the month at 6pm. Occasionally, a second meeting is scheduled if the Commission has unfinished business.

How to Apply?
Individuals interested in being considered should apply through the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. The deadline for submitting applications has been extended to Mon, Jan 27, 2024

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Members Sought for Cambridge Planning Board

Nov 14, 2024 – The City of Cambridge is seeking members to serve on the Planning Board. The Planning Board is made up of Cambridge residents who make recommendations and decisions about urban development on behalf of the City of Cambridge.

The Board has seven full members and two associate members. All members can participate in Planning Board discussions. Members are appointed by the City Manager, and then approved by the City Council.

The Planning Board meets regularly in a public forum to discuss the City’s urban planning objectives, and apply them in the following ways:

• Reviewing major urban development proposals, granting certain types of special permits when they are needed, and putting conditions on special permit approval. The Planning Board reviews about 20-25 special permit cases each year.
• Reviewing proposed amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance, which sets rules for urban development, and making recommendations to the City Council. The Planning Board reviews about 10-15 proposed zoning amendments each year.
• Making recommendations to the Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA) on some cases. The BZA is a different board that grants some special permits and variances.
• Discussing other city planning efforts.

While no specific professional background is needed to serve on the Planning Board, a big part of the Board’s role is to review building plans and designs, so it is important to have a strong interest and enthusiasm for urban design and how it shapes the community. Successful members of the Planning Board will be able to:

• Engage in a constructive discussion of urban planning topics, including urban design, transportation, housing, infrastructure planning, public space, and other topics;
• Listen to people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and consider different points of view;
• Visit and learn about different parts of Cambridge, and bring experience from other cities that members have visited, lived in, or learned about;
• Ask critical questions and make sure to get clear answers;
• Work toward constructive solutions to complex problems;
• Collaborate and build consensus with a group of people;
• Learn about and understand the laws related to planning and zoning;
• Make reasonable decisions on behalf of the city that follow those laws

People who are interested in the Planning Board should attend or watch a Planning Board meeting. Visit www.cambridgema.gov/planningboard to learn about upcoming meetings. Archived video of meetings can be found on the City’s Open Meeting Portal (scroll to “Available Archives” / “Planning Board”).

By state law, all members need to complete training in ethics and conflict-of-interest laws. The City of Cambridge Law Department also provides training and assistance to Planning Board members on legal issues.

The City of Cambridge provides training to employees on topics including Preventing Sexual Harassment and Valuing Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. These trainings will be available to Planning Board members and may be required. Staff may develop training on other topics that are relevant to the Planning Board’s work and may direct Planning Board members to training offered by outside organizations.

The Planning Board is supported by professional planning staff in the Community Development Department, with added support from the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department, the Department of Public Works, and others. Staff give written reports to Planning Board members on cases that are before them, and can talk with individual Planning Board members if they have questions.

The Planning Board usually meets 2-4 times each month on Tuesday evenings at 6:30pm. Meetings can last about 3-4 hours. Members are expected to attend most meetings. The Massachusetts Open Meeting Law usually requires meetings to be in person. However, the Planning Board has been meeting remotely under the temporary Open Meeting Law provisions established during the COVID-19 pandemic and may continue to meet remotely through March 2025. For remote meetings, Planning Board members will need to have a computer or other device with an internet connection, camera, and microphone that can support video conferencing. It is also helpful to have a private place to attend remote meetings without distractions. Members can expect to spend about 2-4 hours before each meeting reviewing materials such as plans and documents, which are sent to members about 5 days before each meeting. Some members find it helpful to visit sites that they are reviewing in person, but it is not required.

Planning Board members will get $6,000 per year as a stipend. This stipend is meant to offset the annual out-of-pocket costs that members might need to pay to make it possible to serve on the Planning Board, such as child care, transportation, and other expenses.

People interested in being considered should apply by using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply and selecting “Planning Board” in the list of Current Vacancies. You should provide a cover letter to explain why you are interested in being on the Planning Board, and a résumé or summary of applicable experience. Experience can include both professional and volunteer work.

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, December 30, 2024. For more information, contact Swaathi Joseph in the Community Development Department at 617-349-4668 or sjoseph@cambridgema.gov or visit www.cambridgema.gov/planningboard.

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Members Sought for Cambridge Public Art Commission

Nov 6, 2024 – The Cambridge Public Art Commission (PAC) helps guide the implementation of the Public Art Ordinance and the Art Gifts and Donation Policy, and advises on the overall direction of the City of Cambridge’s Public Art Program.

The Commission brings its collective expertise to bear on discussions regarding the various program areas of the public art program, such as acquisition and deaccession, project planning, maintenance, conservation, educational programming, and the exhibitions in Gallery 344. The Commission reviews every percent-for-art project from artists’ proposals to final design. PAC approval is required before a project can go into fabrication.

The PAC's responsibilities include:

• Advising on the artist selection process and community engagement process for major projects;
• Recommending qualified jurors to select artists (the Commission does not select artists);
• Reviewing public art proposals;
• Recommending potential sources for additional funding;
• Advising on outreach and education;
• Providing connection to the wider community and recommendations on community interests, resources, contacts, and neighborhood or city-wide issues;
• Contributing a broad perspective and interest in the city’s goals and values;
• Attending monthly meetings.

Public Art Commission members are volunteers appointed by the City Manager to work with Cambridge Arts Council staff in accomplishing the goals of the Cambridge Public Art Program. The Public Art Commission is composed of nine members who each serve a three-year term, renewable once. The PAC meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6-8pm, at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, 2nd Floor, in the Cambridge Arts Council Conference Room, or when permitted, virtually on Zoom.

Members are encouraged to participate in Public Art activities and Gallery 344 events, such as public art openings, artist talks, community presentations, gallery receptions, public art tours, and other related happenings. Additionally, members have the opportunity to learn about the day-to-day work of the staff, Arts Council partners, and other departments, and to offer advice and viewpoints that reflect the Commission’s purpose and role of arts advocacy within city government.

The PAC seeks to represent the socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural diversity of the city, as well as various art and design experience (such as artists, architects, landscape architects, art educators, urban planners, art historians, conservators, curators, and art administrators).

Applications to serve on the Commission can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. The application deadline is Monday, December 9, 2024. For more information about Public Art in Cambridge, visit Cambridgema.gov/publicart.

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Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang Seeks Members for Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA)

Nov 5, 2024 – The Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA), a quasi-judicial body that conducts public hearings on applications and appeals and issues decisions that shape the use and appearance of buildings, is seeking new members.

The BZA has five regular members and up to seven associate members. Members are appointed by the City Manager then approved by the City Council. Regular members serve a 5-year term. Associate members serve a 2-year term.

Under the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance, certain uses and types of development may require a variance, special permit, or comprehensive permit from the BZA.

Who can join the BZA?
All BZA members must be Cambridge residents. To serve effectively, members must:

• Collaborate well with others;
• Be able to consider diverse ideas and perspectives;
• Apply the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance and the state’s Zoning Act to the facts presented in applications and petitions;
• Demonstrate strong attentiveness and listening skills to detailed presentations and discussions.

A technical background is not required. An interest in and understanding of development, architecture, urban design, and zoning law is desirable.

How much of a time commitment is BZA?
The BZA meets twice each month on Thursday evenings for approximately 3-4 hours. Regular members are expected to attend all meetings. Associate members attend on an as needed basis. Meetings are currently hybrid, via Zoom and in person.

Members must review application and petition materials prior to each meeting they attend, which may include development plans and specifications, narrative descriptions, zoning analyses, petitions, appeals, information from City departments, written comments from the public, and other documents.

Do BZA members get compensated for their time?
BZA members receive an annual stipend of $3,500. BZA Associate Members receive an annual stipend of $2,000.

How can I apply?
Apply online at cambridgema.gov/apply. The application deadline is Monday, December 2, 2024.

The best way to learn what BZA is all about is to watch an actual meeting. Anyone interested in joining the BZA is encouraged to visit the City of Cambridge Open Meeting Portal to watch or attend an upcoming meeting or to view archived video and supporting materials prior to submitting an application.

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Members Sought to Serve on Cambridge Kiosk Advisory Committee

Oct 30, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking volunteers to serve on the Harvard Square Kiosk Advisory Committee, which will provide guidance and oversight for the operations of the Cambridge Kiosk in Harvard Square.

Embarking on a journey to reimagine the heart of Harvard Square, the City of Cambridge is partnering with CultureHouse and the Cambridge Office for Tourism to activate the historic Kiosk in Harvard Square. Through this collaboration, the recently restored landmark is set to become a vibrant cultural incubator, community gathering space, and visitor information center called the Cambridge Kiosk. The Kiosk is expected to open in early 2025.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the cultural and civic life of Cambridge and ensure the Kiosk’s operations align with the community’s vision. The application deadline is Monday, December 9, 2024.

Committee Charge
The Cambridge Kiosk Advisory Committee is tasked with advising on the operations and programming of the Cambridge Kiosk. The Committee’s recommendations will help ensure the Kiosk remains a vibrant cultural and community space, in line with the goals outlined in the Harvard Square Kiosk and Plaza Working Group Final Report.

Committee Responsibilities

• Review Operations and Programming. Review the Kiosk’s programming and operations to assess how well it reflects project goals outlined in the aforementioned report. Review community feedback on programs and operations.
• Make Recommendations to the City Manager. Based on the Committee’s findings, provide suggestions to improve the Kiosk’s operations and programming.

Committee Composition
The Cambridge Kiosk Advisory Committee will be composed of members appointed by the City Manager. The Committee will represent a diversity of expertise and backgrounds, including residents, representatives from local businesses, cultural institutions, nonprofits, and community organizations.

Committee members are typically appointed for terms of 3 years each, subject to renewal at the discretion of the City Manager, although some appointments may be 1 year or 2 years to facilitate a staggered appointment schedule. The Advisory Committee is expected to meet approximately 3 to 4 times per year, or more if needed. Meeting dates are yet to be determined.

How to Apply
To apply, submit a digital application form through the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. Please include your name, address, contact information, occupation, and relevant work and education experience. Additionally, provide a letter of interest outlining your qualifications and why you would like to serve on the Committee.

The deadline for applications is Monday, December 9, 2024.

To learn more about the Cambridge Kiosk, click here or contact Daniel Wolf at dwolf@cambridgema.gov.

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Members Sought for Cambridge’s Transit Advisory Committee

Sept 17, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking volunteers to serve on the Transit Advisory Committee, which provides advice to staff on projects related to transit and also gives advice and input on how to improve and promote public transportation. Additionally, the committee meets to discuss transit service scheduling, infrastructure modernization, expansion and long-term sustainable transit funding. Committee members also advocate for a robust public transit system in Cambridge. This includes the transit services of the MBTA, EZRide, and other shuttles in the City of Cambridge.

The recent work of the advisory committee includes:

• Writing letters of support for public transit expansion projects;
• Brainstorming ideas to change or add new bus routes;
• Reviewing street designs for city and state projects;
• Providing feedback on service reliability and improvements;
• Identifying new funding opportunities.

The Transit Advisory Committee is made up of residents and representatives of institutions and organizations with a home in Cambridge. Residents include commuters, people with disabilities, parents, seniors, youth, students, and low-income neighborhood residents. Committee members serve for a term of two years.

Committee members should have an interest in how buses, trains, and subways operate in the city, street design, and infrastructure; professional knowledge is not necessary.

The Transit Advisory Committee generally meets for 1.5 to 2 hours on the first Thursday of every month. Most meetings are hybrid and can be joined remotely or in-person at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway. Some meetings include walking tours of transit facilities in the city or site visits to areas with future or active projects. The Transit Advisory Committee has optional subcommittees that meet occasionally to discuss specific state or city projects.

Committee leadership requires some additional time each month for developing the agenda and inviting guest speakers. This may require an additional 30 to 60 minutes a month.

Interested individuals may apply for this Committee through the City of Cambridge’s online portal at Cambridgema.gov/apply. The application deadline is Tuesday, October 15, 2024. A cover letter and resume may be submitted during the online application process. Once your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. If you have questions or require more information, please contact Andrew Reker at 617-349-6959 or areker@cambridgema.gov. For more information, visit: Cambridgema.gov/transitadvisorycommittee.

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The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. All board and commission members in Cambridge must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.