55 Lenox – Just Say No

To get around this, the developer is asking for a waiver and offering dubious “benefits” like a white roof and stormwater protection, plus use of public parking for his tenants. But Norwood already has a parking shortage, and those public spaces should remain for everyone.

He claims parking is “underutilized.” That’s not even a factor in our Special Permit Criteria. Waivers are meant for projects that help Norwood, not for squeezing out more profit at taxpayers expense.

In March 2024, Town Meeting — our local legislative body — overwhelmingly approved the MBTA Communities Multi-Family Overlay District. This included a clear rule: 1.1 parking spaces per unit for 1- and 2-bedroom apartments. That rule was debated and decided.

We don’t have to give in. Let’s stand by the laws we passed, protect our resources, and send a clear message: Norwood is not for sale. Just say NO.

Steve Konetchy

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District 4 Town Meeting Member