The Planning Board is responsible for reviewing proposed subdivisions, larger development site plans, and advising the City Council and City Administration on planning and zoning proposals.  Planning Board members should be particularly sensitive to both the preservation of neighborhood character and facilitating economic development.

The Zoning Board of Appeals hears requests for special use permits and variances from zoning requirements and also considers appeals of decisions rendered by the Building Commissioner.  ZBA members should bring a thorough understanding of the intent of land-use regulations to their decision-making.

The Conservation Commission protects sensitive environmental resources in the City and reviews development proposals near or in flood plains and wetlands buffer zones to ensure compliance with local and state regulations.  Conservation Commission members should possess an interest in and understanding of the purpose and rules governing wetlands protection.

There are current vacancies on some boards and the City is interested in expanding the use of alternate members of boards to help ensure that all projects can be heard in a timely manner even if some board members are not available to attend scheduled meetings. 

Persons with experience in engineering, architecture, urban planning and design, landscape architecture, environmental science, surveying, land use and real estate law are encouraged to apply.  Minorities, women, and people of color are also particularly encouraged to apply.  All members of all three boards must be residents of the City of Lowell.

If you are interested in potentially serving the City in this capacity, please forward a letter of interest and resume to City Manager Bernard F. Lynch at 375 Merrimack Street, Lowell, MA 01852 or citymanager@lowellma.gov .