Three seats on Dedham town boards need filling.

The Town of Dedham posted openings on Thursday, Aug. 6, for two three-year terms on the Commission on Disability and one unexpired Planning Board seat. Applications are due by Wednesday, Aug. 12.

What the boards do

The Commission on Disability works to improve access for people with disabilities across town. Recent projects include funding accessible playground equipment at Dedham elementary schools. The commission also runs subcommittees on scholarships, summer grants, an Inclusivity Initiative and an Active Transportation Working Group, and it maintains liaisons to the Board of Health, Human Rights Commission, Dedham Police Department and DPW.

The commission can have up to nine members, appointed by the Town Manager. A majority must have a disability or a family member with one. One seat is reserved for a town official, and remaining members must share an interest in making Dedham more accessible. The commission meets once a month, and transportation to meetings is available through the Building Department.

The Planning Board oversees land use and zoning for current and future development in Dedham. Its five elected members also serve as the Standing Committee on Planning and Zoning for Representative Town Meeting, meaning the board's recommendations become the main motion on zoning matters before Town Meeting. Current members include Chair John Bethoney, Vice Chair Jessica Porter, Clerk Michael A. Podolski, James E. O'Brien IV, James F. McGrail and Associate Member Eli Bossin.

The open Planning Board seat carries an unexpired term ending at the 2027 Annual Town Election, when it would go to voters for a full five-year term. The board meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month.

How to apply

Residents can complete the town's online Volunteer Application at dedhamma.gov by Aug. 12. Applicants may also submit a resume or statement of interest to the Select Board. Materials can be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to Nancy Baker at Dedham Town Hall, 450 Washington St., Dedham, MA 02026.

Questions about the Commission on Disability can go to [email protected]. Planning Board inquiries can be sent to [email protected].

The Planning Board's next scheduled public meetings are Wednesday, Sept. 9, and Wednesday, Sept. 23.