The JPNC does its work through an Executive Committee and working committees made up of council members and community participants. Each committee reviews issues and concerns brought to it and makes recommendations to the full Council, and committees also initiate investigation of issues and concerns within their respective jurisdictions. Send us a message for more information, or contact the committee chairs directly using the email addresses listed below.
Housing & Development –
The Housing & Development Committee advocates for affordable housing in Jamaica Plain by monitoring the development and preservation of housing stock in JP, and by working to ensure that development projects are guided by public participation and an inclusive community process. Responsibilities of the committee include:
- Providing a community forum for information and discussion around issues of Jamaica Plain development projects while they are in the early planning and conceptual phases
- Working with the City of Boston to assure a forum for community input into the dispossession of public land
- Reviewing developers’ adherence to JPNC guidelines in the areas of inclusionary zoning and transportation-oriented development
Parks & Open Space –
The Parks & Open Space Committee works to promote and protect green space in Jamaica Plain, and to ensure that parks and playgrounds are properly managed and maintained. Responsibilities of the committee include:
- Fostering community around parks and green space
- Networking with other existing organizations and programs related to maintaining and protecting open space
- Advocating for parks and open spaces, and raising funds and awareness about green issues
For more information about the Parks and Open Space Committee, please send an email to posc.jpnc@gmail.com
Public Service –
The Public Service Committee is involved in the areas of judiciary/community relations, public works, transportation, and crime to ensure that Jamaica Plain remains safe and accessible. Responsibilities of the committee include:
- Reviewing requests for food service, alcohol, and entertainment licensing, and making recommendations to the appropriate licensing board or committee
- Working with utilities and city departments to address a range of public safety and public service issues – including street maintenance and repair, trash and snow removal, traffic and parking, and access to public transportation
- Partnering with the Boston Police and local crime watch groups to promote safety and tackle crime-related problems
For more information about the Public Service Committee, please send an email to psc.jpnc@gmail.com
Zoning –
The Zoning Committee hears cases and provides recommendations related to appeals made to the city’s Board of Appeal. Responsibilities of the committee include:
- Reviewing appeals to the city’s Board of Appeal concerning conditional use permits, changes of occupancy, and variances of the city’s Zoning Code
- Reviewing and monitoring the actions, decisions, and agreements entered into with the Boston Redevelopment Authority and other governmental agencies involved in building and land use matters.
- Monitoring enforcement of Zoning and Building codes
For more information about the Zoning Committee, please send an email to zoning.jpnc@gmail.com
Jackson Square Community Advisory Committee –
The JPNC’s Red Burrows is Council representative to the Jackson Square CAC. CAC members are helping to guide many elements of the Jackson Square Redevelopment Initiative, a comprehensive, multi-phase effort to create an environmentally friendly, transit-oriented redevelopment of the Jackson Square area. The initiative includes:
- Hundreds of affordable and market-rate new homes
- New office, retail, and green space
- New recreational opportunities and programs for youth and families