TM represents its citizens

Perhaps the best example of the dynamics that evening exists in the discussion surrounding the two articles related to decisions whether or not to acquire the Pachiorkowski and Cofsky family properties off Neponset Street. Should Norwood use $6.1 million set aside in a reserve account to do this, or should that money be set aside for the inevitable “rainy day”? Should a million dollars be taken from free cash, and another $1.5 million be borrowed to complete the purchase of roughly 2 additional acres of open space? Proponents for and against the land purchase eloquently weighed in. When exactly is the right time to fulfill Town Meeting’s pledge made a decade ago to acquire open space when available in our community? At this consequential moment, as the three and a half hour financial marathon wound down, history was made in Norwood. The matter came settled when Town Meeting members concluded once again that in serving as financial steward of the town, they are bound to provide ALL Norwood residents with a mix of resources that potentially benefit ALL in our community. Ultimately, the body included that in our collective lifetimes, we would likely never again see another opportunity to achieve Norwood’s recreational space master plan. On this night, no persuasive arguments regarding cost and timing could supplant the overwhelming will of Town Meeting to acquire both parcels of land.

As a Town Meeting member, one never knows the ultimate outcome of any vote until it is taken. Nothing is preordained. In fact, just one week ago, Fin Com’s stance regarding the open space articles rejected the Paciorkowski land acquisition. But Town Meeting is like sausage-making…not very pretty, often messy, following a circuitous route to its final destination. There were many cogent arguments offered for and against the most controversial articles. There was also a single gratuitous political comment which elicited from the body the derision that the remark deserved. Indeed, sausage-making at its finest. Without question, funds committed to the two land articles will be substantial. But in its infinite wisdom, Town Meeting ultimately decided that the benefit derived from providing ALL Norwood families - not just the ones who live in million dollar homes - the greatest opportunities to explore Norwood’s vast and newly-expanded lush, verdant open spaces. The outcome wasn't even close…the vote to acquire the two parcels was overwhelmingly in the affirmative. Only the future will instruct us regarding the efficacy of these decisions. But today, as a Town Meeting member, I’m simply proud and grateful to have played a small part in reinforcing the connection between Norwood’s rich history and its bright future.

Michael J. Thornton, Jr.

TM District 1

Advertisement