The Town of Norwood held its second information session on May 1, 2025, in preparation for the upcoming special and annual town meeting scheduled for May 12. Led by Assistant General Manager Michael Rosen and Town Moderator Jerry Slater, the session aimed to equip town meeting members with essential knowledge about the meeting's procedures and the articles to be discussed.

Rosen emphasized the importance of the town meeting, describing it as a critical platform where elected representatives make significant decisions affecting the community. He outlined the agenda for the session, which included an overview of town meeting procedures, the role of town officials, and the introduction of electronic voting—a system that has streamlined the voting process since its implementation last year.

Slater highlighted the unique aspects of Norwood's town meeting, including the ability for members to register in advance to speak on specific articles. This feature, he noted, ensures that all voices can be heard during discussions. The moderator also explained the importance of the warrant, which outlines the business to be addressed at the meeting, and reiterated that only items listed in the warrant can be discussed.

The session also covered the logistics of the upcoming meeting, including check-in procedures and the use of electronic voting devices. Slater reassured attendees that the voting system is secure and efficient, providing accurate counts for various motions that may require different voting thresholds.

In addition to the main topics, the meeting included discussions about the roles of the town clerk and the finance commission, both of which are vital to the functioning of the town meeting. The town clerk, Mary Lou, provided insights into the registration process for new members and the importance of keeping contact information updated.

As the town prepares for the May 12 meeting, the information session served as a crucial step in ensuring that all members are informed and ready to engage in the democratic process. The next session will focus on additional articles and the Community Preservation Act, further preparing the community for the decisions that lie ahead.