Alternate Member Appointed to Zoning Board of Appeals

The Mansfield Board of Selectmen appointed a new alternate member of the town's Zoning Board of Appeals at Wednesday night's meeting. 

Darlene Pruitt, 44, of Pleasant Street, who has a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies from Suffolk University and a master's degree in criminal justice from Curry College, grew up in Roxbury and has live in Mansfield for about 2 1/2 years. She works at Woodward and Curran, an engineering firm in Dedham, as an administrative assistant. 

Although Pruitt does not have prior experience in zoning matters, she told selectmen that she is a fast learner and has actively volunteered during her time in Mansfield. She expressed a desire to become more involved in the community and said she would add another point of view on the board. 

Chairman Jess Aptowitz pointed out that being on the board means making difficult decisions that affect people's lives, to which Pruitt applied that she is comfortable making tough calls.

"I'm impressed that you’ve been here 2 ½ years and you're already willing to serve," said Selectmen Doug Annino. The Board voted to appoint Pruitt 4-0.