Election Watch: Candidate Forum Voter Discussion

With town elections almost upon us, Norwood Patch would like to hear from you, the voters. Tuesday night local candidates , and we want to hear what you think of their responses.

Follow our updates and make your own in the comments on this story, or join the discussion on Facebook and Twitter.

Candidate Forum Summary:

First up were Bill Bamber and Debbie Holmwood, both running for positions on the planning board for the town of Norwood. Bamber is a longtime member with a family history in Norwood as well, looking for a tenth term serving this particular board. Holmwood comes from a real estate background, and said she got involved in town politics through becoming a zoning board associate member and town meeting member.

Holmwood said that given the opportunity she would like to address the density issues in town, to be sure the community is getting the best value for the use of its space. Bamber stated that planning board systems are very "cut and dry" and cited years of experience and updates made to town bylaws in the last couple years.

School Committee members and incumbent candidates Mark Joseph and Bill Plasko Jr. gave statements via video recording, although both are running unopposed in this election. Plasko said that he just wanted to be "candid" with the voters, even without a challenger for his seat.

Housing authority candidates Patricia Griffin Starr, 15-year incumbent, and Joe Rich, challenger, discussed senior housing and other issues facing the current board as well as items that may come up for the authority in the next few years. Starr cited her deep roots within the community, including family members and years of accomplishments within the housing authority. She said the mission is to ensure the provision of safe and affordable housing for town residents, especially those in need of aid.

Rich asked for further transparency from the housing authority, and cited past government experience outside of Norwood as qualification for this seat. He said the authority is going to need imaginative members in the next few years to help solve the complex issues facing residents.

The three candidates running for the two available seats on the Board of Selectmen were next to speak on the show. Paul Bishop, Allan Howard and Joseph Welch all expressed a great love for and connection to the town of Norwood as reasons for seeking the seat.

The main issue discussed by all three was budgeting and fiscal responsibility in this coming year - specifically for Norwood the issue of the fire department's overspent substitution budget. A need for revitalization downtown was also expressed by the candidates, but there is hesitation to spend capital without a real need.