Newberry Township Volunteer Info

Newberry Township Volunteer Information

Newberry Township, at various times, needs volunteers for its boards and commissions within the Township. These include the planning commission, zoning hearing board, recreation board and the municipal authority. These positions are very important to the effective operation of your township government. Volunteers are asked to complete a short application, which can be printed from the link below. Once submitted, the Township keeps these on file to use when vacancies occur.

Currently, there is a position available for the Parks and Recreation Board and The Emergency Management Agency for the Township and Lewisberry Borough. Information about these positions and volunteer applications are available below.

Volunteer Application Form

Role and Responsibilities:

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission meets the second Monday of each month at 7:00 P.M. The primary purpose of the PC is to advise the Board of Supervisors on planning and community development matters. The natural resource of land must be used reasonably, economically and equitable to benefit both the property owner’s interest as well as the general public. The Planning Commission plays a significant part in guiding use of land resources. The PC member reviews any plans submitted each month and makes themselves familiar with the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance Section(s) that pertain to the plan. At the meeting, the PC hears comments from the developer/land owner and the Township Engineer and either approves or disapproves the plan. The term of a PC member lasts for four years.

Zoning Hearing Board

The Newberry Township Zoning Hearing Board member position is a volunteer position that is appointed by the Board of Supervisors. The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 P.M. The primary purpose of the ZHB is to help assure fair and equitable application and administration of the Zoning Ordinance by hearing appeals on the Zoning Officer’s determinations and by granting relief from the literal enforcement of the Ordinance in certain hardship situations. The ZHB member reviews any application(s) submitted each month and makes themselves familiar with the Zoning Ordinance Section(s) that pertain to the application. At the Hearing, the ZHB hears the applicant’s request and makes a determination. The ZHB has a Solicitor that attends Hearings to assist with the determination. The term of a ZHB member lasts for five years.

Newberry Township Municipal Authority

The Newberry Township Municipal Authority Board member position is a volunteer position and members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors. The appointed Board member will serve a five (5) year term and should be a resident of the Township. The Newberry Township Municipal Authority meets meets once a month, usually the first Wednesday of the month, at 6:00 P.M.

Authority Board members are responsible for organizing and conducting the business of the Authority. The Authority Board members are responsible for creating and amending bylaws, policies and rules and regulations.

Newberry Township Parks and Recreation Board

Advise and Provide Recommendations to elected officials on all aspects of recreation, open space/ greenway lands, park facilities and development. Including setting policies, grant application, donation of land and fees.

Evaluate Municipal Park and Recreation Services by observing area programs and municipal facilities to identify accomplishments and future direction.

Determine Budget Needs and Monitor Finances by determining community needs and establishing priority for funds. Advise on land acquisition and park facility development as funds avail.

Develop and Maintain Cooperative Working Relationships with citizens, community organizations, businesses, elected officials, school districts and government agencies.

Serve as Liaisons by promoting the need for recreation facilities, open space and greenway connectivity to the general public and elected officials. When necessary, serves as a buffer between staff, elected officials and special interest groups.

Plan for the Future in cooperation with elected officials and through the development of a comprehensive recreation, park and open space plan. Help develop park master plans and cooperate with neighboring municipalities whenever possible.

Participate in Special Events and activities, monitoring community reaction and recommend improvements.

Attend Regular Monthly Meetings and special meetings as needed.

Length of Term 5 years

Emergency Management Agency

Various positions depending on experience and background. Please contact EMA director Jennifer Cassada at jcassada@newberrytwp.com for more information.