Ryan Manning

The meeting included a discussion and adoption of a revised Free Cash Policy to align with current financial practices. The board also approved a consent agenda consisting of a car wash for the Norwood High School Class of 2028, a cemetery deed, a park permit for the Coakley Middle School Drama Club, and the use of the Morse House by the Norwood Democratic Town Committee.

The Board meeting included the reorganization of the Board, electing a new Chair and Vice Chair, and appointing a new Clerk. Key agenda items included the approval of warrants, a public hearing and subsequent approval for an All Alcoholic Beverage License for DRG HQ, LLC, and a public hearing and transfer approval for a Class II Auto Dealership license. The Board received updates from Norwood Community Media regarding a funding crisis and reviewed proposed articles for the Annual Town Meeting, including housing, historical preservation, and park improvements. Additionally, the Board took positions on various articles for the upcoming Special and Annual Town Meetings, approved the water and sewer budget, accepted a resignation, and filled a Treasurer and Collector vacancy.

The meeting included the review and approval of a request for a one-day liquor permit for a family event at Hometown Arcade.

The meeting included a presentation on the Fire Department staffing study, which highlighted increased call volumes and recommendations for phased staffing increases. An update was provided on the Norwood 2035 Comprehensive Plan regarding community engagement and strategy refinement. The Board approved an extension for New Year's Eve operating hours, delegated authority to the Board Chair to approve specific permits and requests until January, reconsidered and adjusted operating hours for Gemma Kitchen & Bar, Inc., and approved updated ambulance rates. Additionally, a consent agenda item for a one-day liquor permit was addressed.

The primary discussion revolved around a Public Safety Staffing Study, which detailed significant increases in call volume for both the Fire and Police Departments. The Fire Department summary indicated an understaffing issue, particularly related to ambulance service calls, necessitating proposed shift staffing increases and facility modifications, with an estimated cost of $1,886,080. The Police Department summary highlighted an increased call volume driven by community density and complex incidents, recommending the addition of 9 officers, costing an estimated $786,000. The total levy increase request for staffing was approximately $2.1 million. Other topics included the review of FY'23, FY'24, and FY'25 audits, noting an unmodified opinion for FY'25 despite minor concerns regarding network security and the school lunch account balance. Preliminary revenue projections for FY'27 were presented, showing an increase in new growth attributed to construction projects. Committee liaison reports covered updates on the School Budget, Middle School Building project (estimating a surplus), and Capital Outlay.