Town seeks volunteer participation

Date: 7/18/2014

WEST SPRINGFIELD – The town relies on volunteers to lend their talents to the many projects and daily activities of West Side. Multiple vacancies exist at the moment, providing an opportunity for residents to take an active role in the future of their town.
   
“The community’s strength is in its volunteers,” Mayor Edward Sullivan said. “Volunteers are really the backbone of the community. Without volunteer boards, we’d be crippled.”
   
The following committees have vacancies: Arts Council, Board of Appeals, Building & Other Facilities Planning and Construction Committee, Cable Television Committee, Capital Program Planning Committee, Commission on Disabilities, Conservation Commission, Council on Aging, Historic District Commission, and Park and Recreation Commission.
   
“Each and every one has a very, very important role to play in our community,” Sullivan said. The mayor has a long history of volunteerism with the town, which began at age 12 when he served as a coach for the Park & Recreation Department.
   
He welcomed new and familiar faces to apply for the open spots. Sullivan stressed the importance volunteers play in bringing “new ideas” to the table. He cited the Planning and Construction Committee as one example, calling its members “extremely knowledgeable.” He said there are many “incredibly talented” people in town and their assistance would be a vital asset to the community.
   
“Volunteering takes time, some [committees] more than others, but you know that going in,” Sullivan commented. He added that he “couldn’t thank the current [volunteers] enough” for their hard work and dedication.
   
To review the vacancies and to apply online, visit the www.west-springfield.ma.us/Public_Documents/WSpringfieldMA_BComm/bcapp.