My name is Mark Cleveland, and I’m running for a seat on the Norwell Select Board. My wife Lilly and I moved to Norwell 13 years ago, choosing this beautiful town as the place we would eventually retire. We feel incredibly fortunate to have our children and grandchildren living nearby, and we’re committed to this community for the long haul.

Professionally, I hold a Ph.D. in Life Sciences from Columbia University and spent my career in pharmaceutical research and development—some of you may know my work through a product called Miralax. Though I’m now retired, I continue to consult in the field and work part-time at my daughter and son’s environmental testing lab, where I wear many hats: analyst, janitor, and advisor.

Since settling in Norwell, I’ve been actively involved in town governance. I served six years on the Advisory Board, gaining a deep understanding of how the town operates. Two years ago, I was elected to the Planning Board, where I’ve had the opportunity to look at our town’s future through a different lens—especially as it relates to land use, development, and state mandates.

One of the most pressing challenges Norwell faces today is the upcoming vote on a property tax override. I intend to vote “yes,” but I’m deeply sympathetic to residents—particularly those on fixed incomes—who are concerned about affordability. The truth is, the 2.5% annual tax increase allowed by Massachusetts law is no longer sufficient to cover rising fixed costs like health insurance, pensions, and contractual obligations. Article 2A, the base budget, would result in serious cuts to services, including education, which comprises half of Norwell’s budget. Article 2B, the override budget, allows us to maintain vital services while we work toward a longer-term solution.

That solution, however, requires real change. We can’t continue using the same budgeting process and expect different results. If elected, I will push to reform how we build the town budget by involving the Advisory Board earlier in the process—giving them the ability to question staffing and spending needs, as any well-run organization should.

Beyond budgeting, I’m also focused on how state mandates, like the MBTA zoning requirement, affect Norwell. These mandates often come with few resources and big consequences. As a member of the Planning Board, I worked closely with the Town Planner to develop a zoning plan for Longwater Drive that meets state requirements while minimizing impact. That plan was approved at last fall’s Special Town Meeting. But more mandates are on the horizon, and Norwell must coordinate with neighboring towns and state representatives to protect our community from one-size-fits-all policies.

I believe in facts, listening, and collaboration. I believe Norwell’s future depends on thoughtful, proactive leadership—and I’m ready to serve. Please join me in shaping that future. Attend Town Meeting on May 5. Vote on May 17. And consider casting your vote for me, Mark Cleveland, for Norwell Select Board.