Conservation Commission appoints two new members

The Committee of the Whole appointed Anja Shafer and Frank Fitzgerald to the Conservation Commission at Monday’s meeting. These appointments fill the two seats that were open following the resignation of Louis Andrews in April and Philip Moser in July.

In order to be considered for a seat on any city board or commission, Waltham residents must fill out an application and include information on their areas of expertise, educational background and community involvement. The mayor makes the final decision on who is selected to be commissioners or board members. 

Anja Shafer holds a Bachelor of Arts in international relations and economics from Brigham Young University, a Master of Arts in international economic development from Columbia University as well as several professional certificates. Over her career, Shafer has experience with economic development, community development, fundraising and economic inclusion. Shafer also served as the vice president of global development partnerships at SOURCE Global, a company that specializes in renewable water infrastructure and technology. Shafer shared with the council that she is looking forward to advocating for thoughtful development on a local level.

Frank Fitzgerald is a graduate of Waltham High School’s career technical education program. He attended Northeastern University and completed specialized coursework at Harvard University. Fitzgerald has extensive expertise in environmental regulations and compliance. In his free time, Fitzgerald enjoys spending time in nature and has climbed all 48 of New Hampshire’s ‘4,000-footer’ mountains.

Both new appointees will be confirmed during next week’s city council meeting and are required to complete the training course required for all Conservation Commission members.