In July 1981, Norwood faced mounting financial pressures as state aid formulas, school lunch subsidies, and municipal infrastructure demands collided with Proposition 2½ cutbacks.
Norwood’s School Committee grappled with rising food service costs and the challenge of keeping lunch programs self‑supporting. Meanwhile, public safety concerns—from malfunctioning traffic lights to the need for upgraded fire and burglar alarms—highlighted the strain on municipal resources.
Norwood School Lunch Price Increases
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The Norwood School Committee voted to raise lunch prices to 85 cents for elementary students and 95 cents for junior high and high school students. Member William F. Egan warned that higher prices could reduce revenue and force layoffs. Rudith Berkowitz urged serving more appealing foods like french fries and pizza. Food Services Director Mary Nagle proposed a one‑month “soup and sandwich” trial program.
School Rentals & Insurance Contracts
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The committee approved Newbury Junior College renting classrooms at Junior High School South twice weekly. The Morrill Insurance Agency of Norwood won the student accident and sports insurance contract, charging $3.25 for school‑hour coverage and $18 for 24‑hour coverage.
Traffic Light Malfunction & Accident
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A malfunctioning traffic signal at Dean Street [Dean Street Map] and Pleasant Street [Pleasant Street Map] contributed to a collision involving Allen Bishop and Linda Shea. Patrolman Nick Destito reported the accident occurred during heavy rain, and the lights were repaired later that day.
Norwood Police Chief Appointment Delay
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Town Manager John J. Carroll stated that Arthur V. Deutcsh, a New York Police Captain, likely would not begin his role as Norwood’s police chief on schedule due to difficulties securing housing. He was appointed to succeed James F. Curran, who retired.
Municipal Alarm Installation Project
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The Permanent Building Construction Committee, chaired by William A. Ward, awarded a $137,027 contract to American Service Co. Inc. to install fire and burglar alarms in municipal buildings. The Finance Commission (FinCom) approved a reserve fund transfer to cover remaining costs. Priority installations included Norwood Senior High School, the former Aaron Guild School, and both junior high schools.
Asbestos Removal at Oldham School
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The Finance Commission approved an additional $3,600 for asbestos removal at the Oldham School [Oldham School Map]. The G.S. Maloney Co. received the contract after bids exceeded the original appropriation.
Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger
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