Swampscott is seeking volunteers to serve on a variety of town boards and committees.
“These groups bring together residents with diverse backgrounds, skills and perspectives to help guide important initiatives, strengthen community engagement and support local decision-making,” the town posted to its website.
There are opportunities on:
Andrews Chapel Restoration Committee
- The committee does not appear to have met since August 12, 2025, according to meeting agendas on the town website. The group looks into repairs of the chapel, at 1060 Essex St. Designed by Charles Burgess and completed in 1923, Andrews Memorial Chapel is located within Swampscott Cemetery and is used for funeral services.
Capital Improvement Committee
- The committee reviews proposals for capital projects and improvements involving major, nonrecurring assets. The projects are meant to cost over $20,000 and have a useful life of at least three years.
Climate Action and Resilience Committee
- The committee maintains the town’s Climate Action Plan and advocates for projects that reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change.
Commission on Disability
- The commission serves as a liaison between residents with disabilities and town leadership. The group promotes barrier-free development and accessibility improvements while advocating for an inclusive, discrimination-free community.
Conservation Commission
- The commission oversees wetlands and the adjacent 100-foot buffer zones throughout Swampscott. The group works to protect the natural resources, prevent pollution, improve flood control, and safeguard the wildlife and fisheries. The Conservation Commission serves in both a regulatory and conservation capacity, protecting the resources and promoting open space.
Harbor and Waterfront Advisory Committee
- Established in 2016, the committee identifies waterfront concerns, including sea level rise, and develops short- and long-term improvement goals. The committee’s plan was approved in May 2020 by the Select Board and includes items like the installation of Protective Living Reefs (PLR) around the outer harbor to provide flooding protection to Humphrey Street.
Historic District Commission
- The commission oversees the Historic District, regulating construction and any alterations of buildings within the area.
Poet Laureate Committee
- The committee developed eligibility requirements and an application process for residents interested in serving as the town’s poet laureate. A poet laureate is expected to compose poetry for special occasions.
Recreation Commission
- The commission is responsible for the community recreation policies and programs. The commission aims to serve residents of all ages while maximizing the use of the town’s recreational facilities.
Solid Waste Advisory Committee
- The committee monitors the town’s Solid Waste Policy, which was adopted in 2023 to reduce the use of single-use containers and plastics by food establishments. The committee is currently working on a trash and recycling contract, and it also looks to advise the Select Board in other solid waste and recycling market issues.
Swampscott for All Ages Committee
- The committee works to make Swampscott a more age-friendly community by promoting walkable streets and accessible housing and transportation options. The group has initiatives it regularly works on like the Forget Me Not dementia friendly work.
Water and Sewer Infrastructure Advisory Committee
- The committee advises the Select Board on issues affecting the town’s water infrastructure, including drinking water, wastewater, stormwater and underdrain systems.The group works with the director of public works and engineering consultants to create plans, policies and procedures.
To apply, visit swampscottma.gov/1196/Boards-Committees. Applicants are asked to submit a resume and a brief narrative outlining their availability, as well as any education or experience relevant to the committee they wish to join.
Questions can be directed to Town Administrator Executive Assistant Shannon O’Leary at soleary@swampscottma.gov or 781-596-8850, ext. 1226.
