Reviewing and updating local regulations

A critical responsibility of the Board of Health is to enact local regulations about public health. Some regulations are based on state best practices (e.g., tobacco control), while others are unique to each community. As an example, Norwood has a regulation from 1957 requiring garbage disposals in every kitchen sink —a regulation that has not been reviewed in 69 years—and had an impact on the building of the new middle school. I support routine review of existing regulations to confirm applicability or any need for amendment, and proactive study of potential new regulations, including input from stakeholders and the public.

Reestablishing pre-COVID programs

Prior to the 2020 COVID pandemic, the Health Department organized a number of programs and services for the town. This included supporting eye and dental clinics in Norwood's elementary schools, where students that were in need of additional care could be referred to local providers at no or low-cost. Additionally, the sanitarians conducted annual training programs for restaurant employees, to educate them on food safety and other inspection requirements.

While the dental clinic returned last year, the other programs have not. Working to re-establish those programs would be a top goal for the next year.

Strengthening collaboration with the NC-8 coalition

Norwood is a member of the Norfolk County 8 (NC-8) coalition which also includes the towns of Canton, Dedham, Milton, Needham, Walpole, Wellesley, and Westwood. NC-8 has funding through the Massachusetts Office of Local and Regional Health's Public Health Excellence program, and can provide shared services where one town may not be able to support their own employee. With uncertain town budget projections in the near future, exploring and fully utilizing this coalition will ensure key services can be supported in the years to come.

Increasing communications with residents

Many residents may not interact with the Health Department at all, nor realize the services that can be provided. Increased promotion of existing services and programs, including elder dental clinics, blood pressure clinics, immunizations, and reduced-cost helmets would allow more residents to take advantage of these programs. 

Additionally, there can be continued work on the Department's website to provide timely information to residents, and to be a useful resource for questions regarding complaints, licensing, and other common issues.

Health Department/Board of Health representation can also be explored with other town boards and committees, including the Council on Aging, School Health Council, Impact Norwood, and other groups as needed.

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