The most pressing topic of the meeting was the series of tributes to Scott Sweeny and Chris O’Brien, both of whom had left lasting impacts on the Norton community. Scott Sweeny, who served in the police department for 28 years, was celebrated for his dedication to community policing and youth engagement. Chief Clark shared stories of Sweeny’s humor and deep involvement in the town, stating, “He made Norton his own community; everybody knew him in town.” The board also honored Chris O’Brien, a former baseball coach who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 52, and observed a moment of silence for both individuals.

Following the tributes, the board moved on to a series of appointments. Wendy Cockman was appointed as the new Tax Collector/Treasurer, bringing extensive experience from Berkeley. Jill Sea, formerly of Rhode Island, was introduced as the new Town Clerk. Both appointments were unanimously approved, with Cockman’s effective date being September 16, 2024, and Sea’s on September 26, 2024.

Nicholas Dyer was appointed as a permanent full-time lieutenant in the Norton Fire Department, effective September 20, 2024. Dyer has served the department for ten years and also works as an assistant mechanic and firearm technician. Jonathan D. Goodman was appointed as Deputy Chief of Police, effective November 17, 2024, in anticipation of Chief Tod Jackson’s retirement. Goodman has been with the police department for 28 years and has completed the FBI Trilogy program. Additionally, Kevin K. Scher Jr. was appointed as a full-time Civil Service Police Lieutenant, and Sean P. Mahoney was appointed as Police Sergeant, both effective November 17, 2024.

The board then conducted a public hearing for TJP Dining LLC, which is seeking a new Section 12 common victualer license to serve alcoholic beverages on Mansfield Avenue. Thomas Jan Francesco, representing TJP Dining, discussed their plans for opening a family-friendly pub-style restaurant. Although construction delays could push the opening to November, the board approved the license application contingent upon all necessary final approvals.

In other business, the board addressed compliance issues with Wingland Rodeo LLC. The inspections department had issued correction orders due to unsafe conditions of bleachers and trailers on the site. The rodeo will operate with restrictions for the final three weeks of the season, maintaining a maximum capacity of approximately 461 attendees, including event staff and riders.

The board also reviewed and approved licenses for PH Norton Inc. DBA Downtown Public House. The owner expressed eagerness to open before November to take advantage of the Halloween season, although they faced challenges with contractors. The Select Board approved the application, contingent upon all necessary permits being finalized.

Attention was then directed to the Town of Norton’s Hazard Mitigation Plan, which had been under development since the previous September. The plan, spanning 349 pages, includes strategies to mitigate risks from various natural hazards and qualifies the town for grants to support its implementation. Both FEMA and MEMA had approved the plan, with local approval being the final step. The board unanimously approved the hazard mitigation plan.

The board also discussed an amendment to the Host Community Agreement (HCA) with Lucky Green Ladies 408 LLC. After review by the Town Council and collaboration with Lucky Green Ladies’ attorney, the amended agreement was unanimously approved.

The meeting also covered a comprehensive list of articles for the annual home meeting, including capital improvement funding, drainage improvements, and a potential roof replacement for Norton Middle School. Two articles concerning the Greatwoods Overlay District were referred back to the planning board for further study.

There was also discussion about the future use of the former senior center, with various proposals from local organizations like the American Legion. The board considered subdividing the property to facilitate a sale while retaining access to necessary town facilities.

The Town Manager’s report included updates on the town’s hybrid and electric vehicle fleet, revealing significant cost savings from the use of these vehicles. The board discussed the insurance costs and the sustainability of the fleet in the future.

Health insurance was another key topic, with the town’s membership in the Southeastern Massachusetts Health Group (SMHG) helping to limit cost increases. The introduction of high deductible health plans and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) was discussed, alongside the town’s contributions to these accounts.

The board also received updates on the Fishing Game property on Mansfield Avenue and the ongoing bike trail project, with the latter expected to be completed by spring. Announcements included the town report submission deadline of October 1 and updates on building projects like the Council on Aging’s move to a new location.