By Rich Larson, KYMN News
The deadline to apply to become a member of one of Northfield’s Boards or Commissions is fast approaching, and the City of Northfield is encouraging all interested parties to consider joining one of the many municipal advisory groups.
Members of the city boards and commissions participate in advisory, regulatory, governance and oversight activities in a wide variety of fields including civil rights, transportation and the arts. Other boards oversee specific city owned institutions like Northfield Hospital + Clinics and the Northfield Public Library. While some are purely advisory positions, others like the Planning Commission and the Heritage and Preservation Commission have quasi-judicial roles to fill from time to time in issuing building permits and certificates or ruling on a zoning appeal. A statement issued by the city said more than 145 community members annually provide valuable leadership to the City through their participation on these groups and special study committees.
Members of the boards and commissions play important roles in Northfield city governance. Boards and commissions with vacancies in 2026 include the Economic Development Authority, Environmental Quality Commission, Heritage Preservation Commission, Hospital Board, Human Rights Commission, Library Board, and Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals. More information on these specific boards and commissions can be found on the city’s website. Those with expertise in a given field, or a skill and experience are strongly encouraged to look at the list of vacancies and see if there might be an opening for one’s prowess and ability.
Candidates for the boards are appointed by Northfield Mayor Erica Zweifel with confirmation by the City Council. The mayor typically meets with candidates one-on-one as she seeks to fill the appointments.
For more information on the individual boards and commissions, as well as an electronic application visit the boards and commissions pages on the City of Northfield website. Paper applications may be obtained at the Administration Office in City Hall, or at the Northfield Public Library.
The deadline to apply is this Saturday, January 31st.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net.
