Protecting Norwell from One-Size-Fits All Mandates
While budgeting is a top concern for Norwell, another equally important issue is how we respond to increasingly frequent, unfunded state mandates. A prime example is the MBTA Communities Act, which requires towns near public transit to create new zoning districts that allow for high-density housing by right. On paper, this may sound reasonable, but in practice, these mandates often come with few resources, little flexibility, and major long-term consequences for small towns like ours.
As a member of the Norwell Planning Board, I’ve seen firsthand how these mandates can put towns in a bind. The state doesn’t just suggest changes—it ties compliance to access to critical grant programs and opens the door to legal action for noncompliance. While we are told we are free to vote yes or no, we’re also told to comply or risk losing funding for roads, schools, and infrastructure—or worse, face lawsuits.
That’s why I was proud to be work with the other members of the Norwell Planning Board and with our Town Planner to develop a proactive solution. This was a zoning plan focused on the Longwater Drive and Accord Park areas, a location that could accommodate higher-density development without altering neighboring residential neighborhoods. Our goal was simple: meet the state’s requirements while minimizing the impact on Norwell’s character, infrastructure, and quality of life. That plan was presented to residents and ultimately approved at last fall’s Special Town Meeting.
But this is just the beginning. The MBTA zoning requirement won’t be the last mandate we see. State-level policymakers are exploring additional housing reforms that could expand high-density zoning requirements statewide. These kinds of changes could fundamentally reshape towns like Norwell—without regard for local input, infrastructure capacity, or long-term planning.
That’s why we need to take a stand now. Norwell must not only comply smartly where necessary—we must also collaborate with other towns and engage with our state legislators to make sure our voices are heard. We need to advocate for policies that respect local decision-making, provide the resources towns need to manage growth responsibly, and take into account the unique character of communities like ours.
This isn’t about resisting change—it’s about guiding it wisely. Growth should happen on our terms, in ways that reflect Norwell’s values, support our schools, protect our open space, and maintain the small-town feel we all cherish.
If elected to the Select Board, I will continue to be a strong advocate for thoughtful planning and local control. I’ll work to ensure Norwell is not left reacting to mandates, but instead has a seat at the table shaping the policies that affect our future. Together, we can protect what makes Norwell special—while preparing for what’s ahead.
