(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries and letters to the Editor of The Somerville Times belong solely to the authors and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville Times, its staff or publishers.)

By Joseph A. Curtatone

A monthly look at ways to get involved with your city: Don’t just live in Somerville, be Somerville!

Join a Board or Commission

Joining a City board or commission is a great way to get more involved with issues that you care deeply about and right now several have openings for new members. The Planning Board, Somerville Redevelopment Authority, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Somerville Historic Preservation Commission are currently accepting applications for new members. Each of these groups deals with important issues around construction and development – both on a large scale and on a smaller scale, like home renovations. You can learn more about what each board or commission does, what is involved in being a member, and how to apply at www.somervillema.gov/besomerville. And don’t forget to check back for future opportunities to serve on boards and commissions related to other issues.

Share Your Thoughts on Powder House Boulevard Design

As we consider options for bicycle safety features on Powder House Boulevard,  we want to hear from you. Each option involves tradeoffs and some would require the removal of some on-street parking. We’ve put up a short survey at www.somervillema.gov/powderhouseboulevard. There will be a meeting this summer to continue the discussion. A great way to stay updated on upcoming meetings is by subscribing to the City’s newsletter at www.somervillema.gov/enews.

A Quick, Easy Way to be a Part of SomerVision 2040

SomerVision 2030 – a community-developed comprehensive plan for the City – has shaped a lot of the work we’ve done since it was adopted. But a lot has changed in the past decade and we want to make sure we keep our goals updated and in sync with the needs of the community.  The ongoing SomerVision 2040 process is a chance to look at the original SomerVision plan and make updates and changes when appropriate. To make sure we hear from as many people as possible there will be many opportunities to get involved and not all of them will be meetings. Right now there is a survey up at www.somervision2040.com/participate where you can give feedback about what you love about Somerville, what you think should change in the City, and what issues you feel are priorities. It takes just a few minutes to fill out and is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Haitian Creole. While you’re there, you can also sign up for the SomerVision 2040 mailing list to get updates on the process and learn about new ways to get involved.

Remove Invasive Species and Help Spread the Word

Black swallow-wort (BSW) is an aggressive and invasive weed that can be found throughout Somerville. It poses a threat to native plants, monarch butterflies, birds, and other animals. We’re partnering with the Somerville Garden Club to raise awareness about BSW and encourage residents to remove it from their yards. There are two ways we’re asking for help: Visit www.somervillema.gov/BSW to learn more about the weed, including what it looks like, so you can remove it if you find it growing in your yard. We’re also working on distributing door hangers throughout the City with more information. If you’d like to volunteer to help, please contact Community Engagement Specialist Taylor Ko at tko@somervillema.gov or 617-625-6600 ext. 2620.

Volunteers Always Welcome

Somerville is full of creative, talented, and passionate people and we’re grateful any time residents share their skills with us. We’re always happy to work with people willing to volunteer with the City to find a good fit. If you’re interested in volunteering this summer (or anytime), please contact Community Services Manager Christopher Hosman at chosman@somervillema.gov or  617-625-6600 ext. 2406.

Catch a City Meeting or Event Online or on TV

You can watch City meetings, events, and other community shows on the City’s cable channel (channel 13 or 613 for RCN subscribers and 22 for Comcast subscribers) and on Educational Channel 15 you can watch school sports, school events, and educational programming. If you’re not a cable subscriber, you can also find City programming at www.somervillema.gov/TV and YouTube.com/SomervilleCityTV, and videos from City Council meetings at www.somervillema.gov/boa.

City Alerts

Get important City notifications for snow emergencies, construction, detours, and other public safety matters delivered to your phone (voice and text) and/or your email. Sign up for alerts at www.somervillema.gov/alerts.

City Newsletter 

For weekly updates on city cultural and civic events, City services, job openings, and more, sign up for the City e-newsletter at www.somervillema.gov/newsletter.

City Calendar

Look up city events and meetings (as well as agendas and minutes) 24/7 on the City calendar at www.somervillema.gov.