Donnelly Runs For Norwood's Board Of Selectmen

NORWOOD, MA - Bob Donnelly, a 31-year resident and Finance Commission member, recently announced his candidacy for Norwood’s Board of Selectmen.

Donnelly noted that he hopes to bring his extensive financial knowledge to the board. The election will be held on Monday, April 4.

There will be two seats up for grabs. Chair Tom Maloney is not seeking reelection. Selectman Allan Howard will be running for re-election, as well as his challenger in the recent special election, Amanda Grow.

As a Selectman, Donnelly said he will urge Norwood to develop a formal strategic plan that identifies the long-term programs, services, and projects that ensure a vibrant economy and an infrastructure that is resilient and able to react to changes in the economy and environment. He will propose establishing a capital reserve fund to help plan and pay for long-term and large-scale capital projects.

As Norwood’s infrastructure and facilities continue to age, he noted that the Town will need a financial plan that addresses capital projects, such as the needed improvements to our stormwater system.

Donnelly has extensive experience with town finances and operations. His knowledge as an elected member of the Finance Commission, where he has served since 2017, demonstrates that he can identify and promote ideas and actions that benefit the Town.

He has served as the Finance Commission's Chair, Vice Chair, and as the Commission’s School Liaison. He has also served as the Finance Commission’s representative on several committees, including the Budget Balancing, the Capital Outlay, and the Recreation Pool Feasibility committees.

In addition, he has authored reports detailing the financial performance of Norwood Airport. Based on Donnelly's recommendation, he said the Airport Commission established a new revenue source - landing fees.

Donnelly has been a proponent for the adoption of financial “best practices” to better understand Norwood’s finances. After researching and presenting on these practices from other municipalities, Norwood adopted them for use in budget planning. Donnelly has also been a strong advocate for aggressively funding Norwood’s stabilization fund reserve.

“These actions are needed for Norwood to attain the very best credit rating, one that would result in significant savings for large-scale building projects, such as the proposed new middle school,” Donnelly said.

Donnelly is a 28-year member of Town Meeting and has served on other town boards, including the Personnel Board. The Personnel Board was instrumental in establishing the Town’s first Human Resources Department.

Donnelly and his spouse, Michelle St. Pierre, have resided in Norwood for 31 years. They are the proud parents of Erin Donnelly who, like her father, is a graduate of Norwood High School.

Donnelly has been an active community volunteer. He is a volunteer on the Concerts on the Common Committee, Summerfest Committee, and the Norwood Food Pantry. He is a congregant at St. Mary’s Parish in East Walpole.

Donnelly is a retired Human Resources professional with management experience in the public sector, the consumer products industry and healthcare. He graduated with a master’s degree in Public Administration from Northeastern University.

To learn more about Bob Donnelly and his campaign, please visit his campaign web site at campaign website, send an email to bobdonnelly4norwood@gmail.com, or go to his campaign Facebook page at “Vote for Bob Donnelly for Selectmen.”