Project approval delays show too many board, commission open seats

LACONIA — While elected positions in city government are selected through elections this week, numerous appointed positions on city boards and commissions remain vacant. 

Most people know lots about city council, but many may not think much about other boards and committees — their seats filled and mandates carried out by appointed volunteers — which have, at times, a significant capacity to influence local policy.

Land use boards, comprising the zoning board of adjustment and the planning board, readily come to mind as public bodies with significant decision making. These boards, along with many others, are chronically under-staffed. At times, most recently before the city zoning board, a lack of members present at the meetings results in applications approvals or hearings being delayed.

“Serving on a land use board is one of the best ways for residents to have a meaningful impact on their community’s future,” Planning Director Rob Mora wrote when asked why it’s important for citizens to be involved. “Whether it's the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, or Conservation Commission, these volunteer positions provide residents with the opportunity to influence how our neighborhoods and city develop, how we manage our natural resources, and how we balance development with our quality of life.”

The planning board, which consists of nine members appointed by city councilors for staggered, three-year terms, is responsible for creation of the city’s master plan, a document meant to guide future development. The board has the power to approve or disapprove subdivision in accordance with state law, and the power to approve or disapprove site plans for the development, change or expansion of land use for nonresidential purposes, or for multi-family units. 

The city’s capital improvement plan also falls under the purview of the planning board. 

In addition to the nine planning board members, there’s a member designated by the city manager — that’s Vice Chair Richard MacNeill — an administrative seat appointed, which is currently Parks and Recreation Director Amy Lovisek, and a representative of city council. Right now, Ward 1 Councilor Bruce Cheney sits on the planning board, and Ward 4 Councilor Mark Haynes is the alternate. Mayor Charlie St. Clair is chair of the planning board, though he’s taken a leave of absence through the end of his term in City Hall. 

At present, there’s one vacant regular position on the planning board, and three vacant alternate positions. 

Similarly, the city’s Zoning Board of Adjustment has several vacancies. The zoning board consists of five regular members, and up to five alternates, appointed by the council to staggered, three-year terms. That body hears zoning decision appeals, and requests for special exceptions. At present, there are five vacant alternate positions. 

“Volunteering for a land use board involves more than just attending meetings; it requires taking responsibility for our community,” Mora wrote. “Board members ensure that growth aligns with the community’s goals, that projects comply with local regulations, and that every voice is heard and respected. It's an excellent opportunity to learn more about planning, zoning, and conservation or environmental issues while making a positive difference in your community.”

Numerous boards and commissions have open positions, too: on the Board of Assessors, there’s one vacant alternate position; on the Building Code Board of Appeals, one public member position and one registered architect position; on the Conservation Commission, two regular positions and two alternate positions; on the Heritage Commission, four alternate positions; on the Lakeport Tax Increment Financing District, two regular positions which must be filled by residents, property owners or representatives of a business within the district; on the Library Board of Trustees, one vacant alternate position; on the Personnel Advisory Board, two vacant positions; and on the Historic District Commission, three regular positions and two alternates. 

Those interested in stepping up to serve on one of these bodies should fill out the online application at laconianh.gov/390/Boards-Commissions. Once submitted, a representative of the city manager’s office will contact applicants.

Most boards and commissions follow a process for applicants are interviewed at City Hall by members of the council subcommittee on appointments. That subcommittee then makes recommendations to the broader council, which makes formal appointments.

A smaller number of applicants are appointed to boards and commissions by the city manager, at present Kirk Beattie, as is the case with the Board of Assessors, for example.