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SPENCER – Vivian Poplawski became Spencer’s new town planner on May 28, shortly after graduating from the University of New Hampshire with a Bachelor of Science degree in community and environmental planning.
While a student at Webster’s Bartlett High School, Poplawski had an internship with the community’s Department of Planning, Conservation and Economic Development that sparked her interest in the field and town government.
Undecided between majors in environmental science, political science, economics and related areas, Poplawski chose planning because it offers a mix of opportunities.
“It allows you to be a jack of all trades,” she said.
So far, she is enjoying her work with the Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board.
Poplawski noted that major projects she is working on include a review of the zoning bylaws and subdivision regulations as well as drafting a request for proposals (RFP) to hire a consultant for a 2023 grant-funded commercial conversion initiative.
The latter project involves working with the state to create apartments from old office spaces.
Poplawski hopes to play a role in revitalizing Spencer’s downtown as well.
“There is so much potential,” she said. “So many buildings downtown could be beautiful with improved and maintained exteriors…Bringing in developers to invest in Spencer’s town center is a goal.”
She thinks being a town planner involves encouraging that economic growth while still maintaining the community’s rural character.
Poplawski said the best part of the job so far has been meeting and speaking with Spencer residents.
“It is fun. I like getting to know people and learning more about the town is very rewarding,” she noted.
Poplawski also appreciates the support she has received from town officials, including the Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board.
As the staff support person for those committees, Poplawski said her duties include reviewing and presenting materials on zoning variances, special permits and stormwater plans. She also writes decisions on conditions of approval.
“Everyone has been very welcoming,” Poplawski said.
At UNH, Poplawski belonged to a club devoted to planning and helped organize initiatives to promote cleanup and improve accessibility.
Along with her degree work in environmental planning and earlier Webster internship, she feels prepared to tackle the challenges that come with this municipal position.
