First Selectman Kevin Christie is seeking registered Westport voters to serve on the town’s appointed boards, commissions and committees.
The most immediate need: the Flood & Erosion Control Board. They lack a quorum, making it difficult to act on matters affecting the community. Residents interested in flood resilience, coastal management, environmental stewardship, engineering, planning or related fields are encouraged to apply.
Members of most of Westport’s non-elected boards, commissions and committees are appointed by the first selectman.
The town welcomes volunteers from all professions, backgrounds, life experiences and political affiliations interested in contributing time and expertise to the community.
In addition to the immediate need for Flood & Erosion Control Board members, these agencies have vacancies or upcoming term expirations
- Architectural Review Board
- Affordable Housing Committee
- Building Maintenance Committee
- Fair Rent Commission
- Historic District Commission
- Parks Advisory Committee
- Parks & Recreation Commission
- Public Site & Building Commission
- Racquets Advisory Committee
- Shellfish Commission
- TEAM Westport
- Tree Board
For more information on each, click here.
A representative is also needed for the Aquarion Water Authority Representative Policy Board. With representatives from each municipality in Aquarion’s service area, it is responsible for approving water rates and overseeing key aspects of the Authority’s governance.
Board and commission opportunities may be appealing to residents with experience in architecture, construction, engineering, environmental sciences, housing, finance or public policy.
Prior board or committee experience is not required. Anyone interested in learning more about town government, participating in public service, and contributing thoughtful perspectives is encouraged to apply.
“Westport has long benefited from residents who generously volunteer their time and talents in service to the community,” Christie says.
“Whether you bring professional expertise or simply a desire to get involved, I encourage you to consider serving on one of our boards or commissions. Your voice and perspective can help shape the future of our community.”
Residents interested in serving can submit a Volunteer Interest Form and resume, or a brief biography, to volunteers@westportct.gov.
Unusual, during my time in town, for so very many boards and commissions to be wanting for membership.
Leads one to wonder whether it’s an increased lack of interest in town functions, or a lack of a welcoming reach out by the Selectmans’ office…
Let’s also not forget: DPIC & Affordable Housing Committee…
Given PRC has openings, I would recommend Rick Guinta for his institutional knowledge, Barry Machlin would be a tremendous asset to the Cribari Bridge Committee or any committee in town.
This is a town of 28,000 active enthusiastic people, respond to their emails and give all a chance to serve. I remember our former second selectperson Andrea Moore was a force to fill positions regardless of party affiliation, and simply saw the heart and passion of volunteers to execute and carry the mission of such committee.
Don’t forget the Cribari Bridge committee 😀