Departing Town Manager John P. Mogan Reflects on Seven Years of Service-November 10, 1978

Norwood Town Manager John P. Mogan Steps Down, Citing Pride in Local Government and Anticipating New Public Sector Challenges

NORWOOD — Marking his final official workday after nearly seven years at the helm, Norwood Town Manager John P. Mogan reflected on a tenure defined by dedication, administrative achievement, and deep personal satisfaction, even as he stepped down from his $37,000-a-year post into an uncertain future.

Surrounded by well-wishers visiting and calling his office late yesterday afternoon, the 56-year-old administrator maintained his characteristic poise. While admitting to growing frustrations over the preceding four or five months regarding administrative boundaries and board interventions, Mogan steadfastly refused to criticize his political bosses on the five-member Board of Selectmen. Citing his “tremendous pride in local government,” Mogan stated, “I will not do anything to injure it, its prestige or dignity.” He singled out the late Selectman Charles L. Rich, who died in August 1976, as an exceptionally understanding and supportive leader during his tenure.

Future Plans, Public Power, and Family Pride

Reflecting on his career—which spans four and a half years in Walpole in addition to his Norwood service—Mogan expressed absolute confidence in his professional future within the public sector. He may temporarily remain in Norwood as a paid consultant handling the town’s electric power rate and anti-trust litigation against Boston Edison, a specialized role that will relieve incoming town manager John J. Carroll of complex utility burdens.

Mogan credited his success to the unwavering support of his wife, Malvina A. Mogan, noting that the demands of a municipal manager require balancing heavy evening commitments with family life. He beamed with pride when discussing his daughter, Janice P. Mogan, a 25-year-old equestrian, expert skier, and commercial pilot who is set to graduate from Purdue University in May as a doctor of veterinary medicine.

With job offers and applications pending in public service—including a potential town administrator post in Franklin—Mogan emphasized that personal enrichment takes a backseat to professional challenge. “I’ve a real desire for challenge. What’s money?” Mogan reflected. “I’ve had a very satisfying life.”

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger