FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10/18/2025
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
City of Framingham Advertising For Volunteers For the Agricultural Advisory Committee
FRAMINGHAM - The City of Framingham is seeking applicants to fill four openings on the Agricultural Advisory Committee.
This is the third time this year the City has advertised to fill vacancies on the committee.
The City of Framingham’s policy is to conserve, protect, and encourage the maintenance and improvement of agricultural land, both for the production of food and other agricultural products, and for its natural and ecological value.
To support this mission, the Agricultural Advisory Committee serves as the City’s primary advocate for farming and agriculture.
The Committee is charged with administering the City’s Right-to-Farm Ordinance (Section 25), though it does not hold regulatory or enforcement powers.
The committee’s responsibilities include:
- Advocating for farmers, farm-related businesses, and agricultural interests
- Providing visibility for farming in Framingham
- Collaborating with other City departments, boards, and committees on agricultural issues
- Helping to resolve farm-related conflicts
- Supporting the protection of farmland and natural resources
The Agricultural Advisory Committee consists of five members appointed by the Mayor for three-year terms.
At least three members must be actively engaged in farming, forestry, or related activities.
Up to four alternates may also be appointed by the Mayor.
Current Members:
Name
| Seat
| District
| Term Expiration
|
Natasha Rausch
| Chair
| 4 | June 2026
|
Linda Kirchman
| Clerk
| 6
| June 2026
|
Diane Soulliard
| Member
| 7
| June 30, 2025
|
John Randell
| Member
| 7
| June 2027
|
Vacant
| Member
| –
| June 2027
|
Vacant
| Alternate Member
| –
| June 2026
|
Vacant
| Alternate Member
| –
| June 2025
|
The committee’s mission is supported by Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution, which guarantees the protection of the public’s right to conserve and utilize agricultural and natural resources. Additionally, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A, Section 3 ensures that local zoning laws cannot prohibit or unreasonably regulate land use for agricultural purposes.
To apply, visit the Boards and Commissions page on the City’s website and fill out the form at this link - Form Center • Boards, Committees, Commission, Officers Appli
The new deadline to apply is November 14, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.
The Mayor will review all applications submitted by the deadline and make nominations to the City Council. No resume or cover letter is required to apply for this position.
The City Council, as the legislative branch of City Government, has 30 days to approve or reject the Mayor’s nominations.
Questions about the nomination process can be directed to Framingham Citizen Participation Officer Nicole Horton-Stimpson at NHS@framinghamma.gov
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