The City of Cambridge encourages and promotes the participation of residents in the decision-making process by participating in various boards and commissions, as well as advisory committees and temporary working groups. Being part of a board or commission can be a rewarding experience and a great way to contribute to the quality of life of the community in which you live or work. We rely heavily on the interest and involvement of volunteers who seek to play a more active role in the functioning of their local government. Additionally, the City of Cambridge aims to broaden and deepen community engagement with a focus on strengthening the diversity and inclusion of its various boards and commissions, and working and interact effectively with individuals and groups of diverse identities, cultures and origins. , and ideologies.

Selection for appointment to one of our boards and commissions is generally based on the following characteristics:

• A broad perspective and concern for the well-being and progress of the City
• Knowledge of the history, issues and objectives of the City
• Residence in town, in most cases
• A willingness to devote time and effort to the work of said council or commission
• Knowledge and understanding of City ordinances and policies
• Balanced and diverse representation on boards and committees, to the extent possible

Positions to be filled at the moment:

Cambridge Library Board of Trustees (registration deadline 12-13-21)
Library administrators are volunteer community representatives, library advocates and leaders in setting goals and policies for the Cambridge public library system. Administrators are a vital link between library staff and the community and work to ensure the quality of library services, collections and programs, and to ensure that the library reflects and is relevant to the community.

Open Data Review Commission (Registration deadline 12-13-21)
The city’s open data program makes government data readily available in useful formats and aims to increase transparency, foster resident engagement and create new opportunities for collaboration between Cambridge and the public.

Cambridge Water Board (Application deadline 12-13-21)
The Cambridge Water Board plays an advisory role to the Managing Director of the Cambridge Water Department. Members generally assist in the development, modification and approval of policies relating to land and the use of lands owned by the Ministry of Water.

Cambridge Peace Commission (Registration deadline 29/11/21)
Commission members work with staff to achieve the goals and work of the Cambridge Peace Commission. Members are to attend regular meetings and help organize Commission programs and events, including the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Holocaust commemorations, and Meet Your Neighbor in September. In addition, members are encouraged to learn about the day-to-day work and plans of staff, and to offer advice and perspectives that reflect the purpose and role of the Commission within municipal government.

Cambridge LGBTQ + Commission (Application deadline 12-6-21)
The LGBTQ + Commission advocates for a culture of respect and to monitor progress towards equality of all people with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. The Commission also promotes policies and practices which have a positive effect on the health, well-being and safety of those who live, visit or work in the city of Cambridge with regard to sexual orientation, identity and gender expression.

Three district neighborhood conservation commissions (Registration deadline 11-30-21)
Neighborhood Conservation Districts (NCDs) were established by municipal ordinance in 1983. The conservation district designation recognizes a distinctive physical environment that reflects the architectural, cultural, political, economic or social history of the city. NTMs promote wider public knowledge and appreciation of these neighborhoods. The designation encourages the conservation and maintenance of these areas to make the city a more attractive and desirable place to live and work. Vacancies for NCDs include:

Application process

Nominations to serve on any of these committees can be submitted to Executive Director Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply and the selection of the respective committee (s) of interest. A cover letter and curriculum vitae or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Hard copy applications are available from the Cambridge City Hall Office of the General Manager, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. Please note the application deadlines for the respective committees listed above.