Norton School Committee Advances Principal Selection, Celebrates Achievements

Overview: The Norton School Committee convened recently to address various topics, with the appointment of three finalists for the principalship at the JCS as the focal point of the meeting. These candidates, each with a robust background in education and special education programs, were introduced and discussed. The meeting also highlighted the acceptance of an $8,000 cash donation to support a student tour to Thailand and recognized the award-winning achievements of teachers Miss G and Mr. Beard.

Norton Select Board Reschedules Town Meeting and Election

Overview: In a recent Norton Select Board meeting, decisions regarding the town meeting and special election were made, with the board voting to continue the town meeting to May 28th, 2024, and to cancel the previously scheduled June 8th special election. Additionally, the board addressed various matters such as grant awards, a school committee vacancy, and infrastructure projects.

Norton Plans Sewer and Water System Overhaul

Overview: The Norton Water Sewer Commission recently held a meeting to discuss the Elm Street sewer extension and water main improvements, a project with a budgeted cost of between $7.3 and $8.4 million. The commission announced the postponement of the project’s article in the upcoming town meeting until fall due to the need for additional information regarding potential developments on Elm Street. The project, expected to start construction in November 2024 with an estimated completion in May 2026, is partially funded by a MassWorks design grant and an economic development build grant, with $3.5 million already secured. The remainder will be financed through betterment assessments on affected properties and the Title 5 Loan program, which assists homeowners with septic system repairs or new sewer connections.

Norton Planning Board Elects New Chair Amid Project Reviews

Overview: The Norton Planning Board convened on May 7th, 2024, resulting in the election of new board officers and a rigorous review of various project conditions, notably the zero Mansfield Avenue denial and Doland Ice Cream’s expansion concerns. The meeting, held at the Norton Media Center, was accessible to the public via Zoom, phone, and live stream.

Norton Conservation Commission Debates Stormwater Management for Reservoir Street Subdivision

Overview: In a recent Norton Conservation Commission meeting, one notable issue discussed was the 14-lot subdivision proposed for Reservoir Street. The Commission grappled with concerns over the project’s compliance with the town’s stormwater management criteria, especially the one-inch infiltration standard, due to challenging soil conditions and high groundwater levels. The representative for the project, Ned Corkran, alongside project engineer Cameron Campbell, addressed peer review comments and outstanding issues, including a contested waiver request for stormwater management and phosphorus removal calculations.