This is the archive of previous Norfolk Notes.
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6/30 8:55pm Hi , My name is Jim and I am the owner/operator of Weatherproof Construction. I live in town and have been doing quality roofing and siding work in town for years. Someone was looking for info on shingles and had questions about tearing off the old roof or going over the existing roof. Please give us a call at 508-553-0943 or 508-294-4052. Bye - JF
6/30 4:11pm DCC: I live in Norfolk and have a pet sitting business. I have taken care of dogs from poodles to pitbulls. I've always had dogs and really enjoy being able to provide them with a fun time during the day while their parents are away. I've had a very large dog (215 pounds) who passed away 2 years ago and now have a 1/2 year old black lab who is training for agility competitions. So I can handle big, fast and busy dogs! Please call me or e-mail me to discuss your needs further. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, - RS
6/30 2:34pm We are looking for a dog walker for our 4 month old puppy. Someone to come once a day around lunch time to feed her and take her for a short walk. She is very friendly and "walks" well. Also, would love to hear from others on recommendations in services they use and/or Doggie daycare. We live on North street. Thanks, - DCC
6/30 12:45pm Regarding the town trash problem, how about the people that dump their grass and leaves on town or private property. I am amazed at the number of people I see during spring and fall carting leaves and grass off their property and dumping them across the street. I am glad that they care about their property, but would it hurt to take the stuff to the dump, or better yet, compost it? Many of these people even seem to back up to woods. Make a mess in your backyard and not on our streets, please. - SF
6/29 9:58pm I am looking for a local AC repair person. Any recommendations? Thanks! - EB
6/29 9:17pm Thanks for the replies regarding infant massage classes. I will give a call to Sturdy Memorial and the Walpole VNA. - MFZ
6/29 7:28pm Bothers me - I was wondering if they teach children what side of the road to walk and ride their bikes on in school. I was taught to walk facing traffic and ride a bike with traffic. You hear a lot of people getting hit by cars and they never say if the person or persons were facing or walking with traffic. It is not only younger people but also "so called" adults that I see do it. I know that I don't trust any driver with or without a cell phone in their hands when I am walking or driving. - RW
6/29 8:36am MFZ - I think I saw that Sturdy Memorial offers infant massage classes. You could call them or try the hospital where you delivered, many offer childcare type classes for new parents like infant massage. The VNA might know too, there is an office in Walpole and they are very helpful. Good luck - MJD
6/29 8:34am To MFZ: Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro offers infant massage classes. The main number of the hospital is 508-222-5200. - MP
6/28 11:35pm TO MFZ: Not sure of the actual name of the practitioner, but there is a flier for a massage therapist who works on infants in my chiropractor's office. I won't be going for a couple of weeks, but you can call and ask them yourself. It's Westwood Family Chiropractic, and the number is 781-769-2500. Good luck. - TC
6/28 10:24pm Go to www.rexhameshores.com for a look at a very nice well kept bed & breakfast. - ER
6/28 9:59pm In reply to NS who is looking for a location for an anniversary get away... I would recommend the Allen House in Scituate. The number there is (781) 545-8221. If Meredith is still running the place, you should be very pleased. If you can, I suggest the Harbor Garden Room - a little more expensive but worth it for the privacy. Also, it is a great location for being able to walk into the town of Scituate and is a short ride to the Cape, Boston, etc. They also have a website, www.allenhousebnb.com. If you want to go north, we have had good luck with the New England Inn in Intervale. Ask for one of the stand along cabins - all pine with fireplace and jacuzzi. Tuckerman's Tavern is a nice spot for late snack, drink and a little music. www.newenglandinn.com. Now for my question, I am a new mother with a 3-month old little boy. Does anyone know of a place that offers infant massage classes or "Mommy & Me" type classes? I know that Norfolk rec does a music appreciation class but that is not until the fall. I also tried the Franklin Y and was told they don't offer classes. Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks, - MFZ
6/28 4:17pm This has nothing to do with Norfolk, but [ ... ] we are looking for a weekend getaway for our anniversary.... Do not want to travel too far as we have young children at home... Cape, Islands, Maine, New Hampshire etc. Does anyone know of a bed and breakfast that they would HIGHLY recommend? Thanks! - NS
6/27 10:55pm This is an appeal to Norfolk - people who would like to contribute to Hillcrest Village board games for use by seniors who live at the village - parcheesi, Uno, cards in near perfect condition, checkers other games suitable for the residents - no Monoply please - it would be so appreciated. I realize this is a short notice in that a 5 o'clock meeting is planned on July 2nd. If you can bring a contribution, leave it in the comunity room in the spirit of community service; we would be so grateful. - BS
6/27 9:49pm TO WB: No it's not surprising, but a little disappointing. I agree the town let him get away with murder on this whole site, and now he gets to do what he wants v. what the town has asked for. It's complicated, I realize, but it should not be that difficult to get the town center developed in a way that suits the wishes of the town. - TC
6/27 3:00pm To TC: It shouldn't surprise anyone,... but thanks for the heads up. I didn't read yesterday's paper, I'll go dig it out of the recycling bin. I was at the Conservation Commission meeting on Wednesday and Mr. Borrelli and his engineer were there to discuss the violations on their work on Main Street. Mr. Borelli's attitude was less than polite and he was not cooperative. The matter was related to work within 10 feet of the wetlands which not only violates a Town Bylaw but requires a hearing in front of the Zoning Board for materials related to the Watershed Protection bylaw. In summary Mr. Borelli said "he wasn't going to do that." His engineer refused to provide information on an area of flooding. If you ask me, and I know that no one did, I'll blame one Town board for this situation. They let Borelli get away with a lot and he now has been empowered, even as he turns around and sticks it to the Town any way he can. - WB
6/27 12:42pm For those interested in the development of Pebble Hill, check out yesterday's Globe article, in the West section. Looks like the developers are going to use the affordable housing law to build what they want. I'd provide the link but I'm running. Just thought those interested should check out the article. - TC
6/27 9:56am Thought I'd chime in on the litter discussion. I raised the cigarette butt issue last month and I know that other litter is prevalent as well. The cigarette butt issue particularly bothers me because those who toss the butts think it's okay. I think there are levels of "offenders": - There are the 'renegades' who get away with what they can. Their issue is not about the actual cost of paying to dispose of a refrigerator directly, but more about the 'principle' of it and the sport of 'getting away with it'. They may see an additional fine as a 'dare'! All I can suggest here is that we raise our children to do the right thing because it's right, not because they might get caught or get fined. - There are those who are 'entitled' - I'll do whatever I want because this world/town owes me. Again, I don't know that we can change these people. We can, however, raise our children to know that they are lucky to have a great town like Norfolk and we must respect our environment. - Then there are the 'untouchables' who believe that the rules don't apply to them or their nasty habits. I believe the cigarette butt tossers fall into this category. There is some rationalization that perhaps their litter isn't really litter... maybe the birds will use the cotton in the cigarette butts to make nicotine infested nests... Who knew litter could get so deep! I do like the idea of the inmates cleaning up. Is there a risk that people (from the three categories above) may then say, might as well litter, we got those prisoners out there anyway cleaning up? Just a thought. If there is an Earth Day or Litter Awareness program that someone is willing to coordinate, count me in. Maybe something in the schools beyond posters for Earth Day but more about 'everyone pick up a bag of trash, swap it with a friend, now throw it in your bedroom... you don't want to? Why not??' - WS
6/26 1:15pm UMPIRES NEEDED for men's softball league on Monday and Wednesday nights in Wrentham. Pays $30 a game. For more information call 508-520-0163. - CSK
6/26 12:20pm PA, Chain gangs, huh? Actually, I wouldn't have a problem with that. The notion of having the less-than-hardcore out there working to earn their keep (outside of making the occasional license plate) is worth considering. Perhaps we should email The Gov. and see what his take on the issue is. Or would someone consider this whole notion cruel and unusual punishment? LOL... - TK [Wasn't Pondville going to be made a pre-release center? That would add a whole new depth to the phrase, "working to earn their keep." No chains needed, we'll trust them! There was a discussion about the pre-release program in late March, 2002. - Wm.]
6/26 10:56am TK: Fair enough. What about getting the inmates out on the streets cleaning up? It will get them fresh air and some exercise, and shouldn't cost the town a dime. - PA
6/26 10:50am TK - I'm inclined to believe that the issues of slobs throwing their junk out of car windows and the town waste disposal policy have little to do with one another. First of all, I'd be hard pressed to believe an illegal dumpers' scream of "poverty!" in this town. If people can afford to fill the tank up weekly on the Lincoln Navigator, then they can afford the 15 bucks it'll cost them to dispose of an old refrigerator, which they'll need to do once every 10 years at the most. Second of all, it's not like I've never seen trash along side of the road in Medfield, where I'm guessing you're from, judging from your statement of "Having lived almost 2 decades in Norfolk's northern neighbor". If the costs for disposal are built into your taxes, what's the slobs' excuse then? Again, I think the issues of disrespectful littering slobs and town policy have little to do with each other, but I will say that there are benefits to a "pay as you throw" policy. First of all, some families generate a lot more trash than others. To tack on an equal tax to everyone, or charge one large lump sum for a transfer station permit would be unfair to those who generate less trash. Second of all, it provides an incentive to keep trash volumes lower by recycling as much as possible, which of course is the more environmentally responible choice. And personally, I think I'm taxed enough already. I much prefer removing money from my pocket myself, rather than having government pickpocket me. Maybe "out of sight, out of mind" is fine for you, but I take a keen notice to the fact that government is taking almost 50% of my income. - JD
6/25 10:48pm To CD: I worked closely with homebuyers for a number of years and found the following to be useful when considering the condition of the roof and the need to secure a contractor: (1) The Institute for Business & Home Safety (www.ibhs.com) publishes an excellent booklet on roofs entitled "A Homeowner's Guide to Roofing and Hail," (2) Although some time has passed since its publication, the August 1997 issue of Consumer Reports has a detailed article on dealing with the roof, (3) In my experience (through the experience of others), damaged, lifting, or curling shingles, even if few in number (or unless there is a very specific, identifiable problem going on above or around the area of the bad shingles), it usually means the time for that dreaded roofing job is approaching. Consider the age of the roof (20 to 25 years is the lifespan for most if conventional coverings were used) and determine how many layers of shingles are up there (it used to be three layers were allowed, now, I believe only two are permitted by code). Get three professional opinions and three bids, and (4) The best roofing companies invariably have waiting lists, so even if the job is well into the future, it's practical to go for an opinion, commitment, and bid (in writing) early. Hope this helps. - TEM
6/25 4:34pm I agree with TK and would love to see the transfer station costs be billed into the tax rate. Or what about one large fee up front? Its a major hassle to keep buying those stickers. In my past post of 2/7/03 I wrote "I would suspect that if fees continue to climb and sticker prices continue to climb the transfer station would actually see a decrease in revenue. The decision would be made easier for people to jump ship. Currently it would be cheaper for me to use a trash hauler but have stuck it out with the Town." More and more people are using private trash haulers. TK- This is a losing battle. "Pay as you throw" seems to be en-vogue with Town administrators and Town Selectman. Natick starts it July 1st. I compare it to schools now charging for busing, charging for sports programs, music, etc. Stay Cool, - NS
6/25 4:33pm Hi, There a are few cracked shingles on my 17-18 year old roof. Please suggest a good contractor and also is it really worth the expense to rip off the old shingles and install the new, or I can go over it. Can anyone also suggest pros & cons of different brands / type of shingles? Kind Regards, - CD
6/25 2:34pm JD, If only life were so simple. The 15 bucks that you and I might think of as only a "lousy" 15 bucks may not play the same in many households. And the "dumping" occurs when the 15 bucks becomes an issue because it simply isn't there for some, and others are cheap. I always found that the money paid as part of the tax bill was money I didn't see. Perhaps it was the out of sight out of mind mentality. But as such, I never concerned myself with disposal of large items for a fee, or stickers for each bag of trash. Some folks don't think that way, and litter happens. And I'll never be convinced that any signs on the roadside or laws on the books are significant enough threats to stem the tide of litter. For better or worse, roadside signs other than directional signs seem to have become pretty meaningless. The fact is that the chance of being caught littering, even dropping the occasional refrigerator, are low enough as to be considered non-existent, unless one is truly dumb enough to act right in front of the authorities. (Those would be candidates for America's funniest Home Videos.) I think folks are quite aware of what consequences might be out there if they're caught littering. They know it's unlikely they'll be caught...so why worry? Think about the number of times you might have followed a car when the driver in front of you tosses a cigarette butt out the window, rather than use the built-in ash tray (doesn't want to get it dirty...). There's no concern of getting caught. And the police, quite frankly, have other concerns in today's world. Can't blame them. And litter is fairly low on the list. - TK
6/25 12:57pm TK - I don't think there would be any need to hire "litter cops". The idea is to get violators' attention. When faced with the decision of "Should I pay the lousy 15 bucks and dispose of this refrigerator properly, or should I risk dumping it illegally, being seen, paying 1000 bucks, and being publicly humiliated by being forced to pick up other people's litter?", I think the consequences of the latter decision may be enough to sway some would be violators into doing the right thing. But potential litterers need to be AWARE that there are consequences for their actions. If there already are stiff fines for litterers on the books, then I don't know about them. There needs to be signs letting the public know, and to constantly remind them. - JD
6/25 12:01pm Regarding the development of the town and if commercial or other development projects make sense, I started to think about a couple of issues. First, I was wondering why Wrentham has been battling several development project and shot down the first KP high project when they have a very (in my mind) significant commercial basis, namely the outlet mall. I was thinking that prior to the mall going in people were probably told that 'taxes would be lower if we could just bring in some commercial development'. Now I wonder if they still feel that way. It seems that the mall might even be a strain for services since quite often I see police cars down there for some reason or another. The other concern relates to the water supply. We are always having water bans not because we do not have enough water but I think I heard it as we do not have enough capacity. If this is the case and Holbrook Crossing is to use town water, will the town be able to 'properly' supply the residents of the town? Will we maintain sufficient capacity for fire services? Medway seems to be having a similar issue. (see [this article]). Finally, I can sympathize with those on fixed incomes on having to pay more taxes. I was reading somewhere that in Florida the home valuations only allowed to increase a certain percentage each year. However, when you buy a home, the buying price sets the valuation, verses our lower rate. This would seem to help those on fixed incomes that choose to stay in town. Seniors that have lived in town for many years would maintain a lower evaluation than the new family that just moved in next door. - SF
6/25 11:50am To PR - How long had the television been there? To MD - When I found the television by the Miller Street bridge, I called the Conservation Commission (not knowing who to call at Town Hall), and she in turn called Butch at the Highway Department. It was removed that very same day. You should call regarding that air conditioner on Grove Street. Freon is nasty stuff and needs to be properly disposed of. I think PA's idea about a VERY stiff fine and community service is great. We'd need to post a LOT of signs so violators know we mean business. Maybe we could place more trash receptacles in strategic locations too. It makes my bloodpressure skyrocket every time I do it, but I often do pick up litter just because I know that otherwise, it's going to continue being a blight. Also, litter out of control can negatively impact all of our property values in town. Knowing what my husband and I sacrificed financially in order to live here, the thought of disrespectful slobs possibly affecting our investment makes my blood boil! - JD
6/25 11:49am One of the cable stations was displaying the tally as of 8:15pm the night of the vote, however, this is from the Sun Chronicle. WRENTHAM -- Voters in Wrentham, Norfolk and Plainville on Monday overwhelmingly approved tax hikes for the next 28 years to fund the $49.5 million King Philip Regional High School construction project.[. . .] Wrentham this time approved the project by 651 votes. Plainville passed it by 330 votes and Norfolk by a landslide of 1,132 votes.
The supporters' decisive victory secures a 63 percent state re-imbursement rate for the project by meeting the state's June 30 deadline for getting local approvals.
- SF
6/25 11:48am PA, Nice thought, but rather impractical as the town would be faced with hiring personnel to do nothing but cruise the streets around town watching for those who dare to litter. Given the funding problems most towns have, I'd rather doubt the residents would put that high on the priority list. And it's doubtful that a vigilante litter patrol would go over well. It's both a problem with those who litter, and manpower to enforce existing laws, before we try new ones. - TK
6/25 11:45am From the Town Clerk:
- AL
Election Results for June 23rd Special Election Norfolk Wrentham Plainville YES 1500 1957 866 NO 368 1306 536 BLANK 19 5 8
6/25 11:43am According to the Sun Chronicle, Wrentham approved the project by 651 votes, Plainville passed it by 330 votes, and Norfolk by a "landslide" of 1,132 votes. Wrentham drew 48.2 percent of eligible voters, Norfolk 34 percent and Plainville 28 percent. - DAF
6/25 10:15am Does anyone know how the vote went last week? Yes or no on KP High? - DAF
[We understand it passed in all three towns, but does anyone have the town-by-town breakdown of yes vs. no? - Wm.]
[Update: see posts of 11:43am and 11:45am - Wm.]
6/25 10:12am Here's a sure fire way to stop the littering, and possibly enhance the town's fiscal situation: $1,000 fine for littering, plus 10 hours community service picking up roadside trash. Period. End of story. This'll put a quick end to these lazy miscreants. - PA
6/25 8:19am To JD, Walked over the Miller Street bridge early this morning and saw that the TV was FINALLY removed. From the bridge to Leland Rd. you should have seen how many discarded scratch tickets were in the road. What a disgrace. - PR
6/24 10:55am The bottles, pizza boxes, cans and general litter that one finds along the roadside is, indeed, depressing. And one wonders why others find reason to just "chuck it out the window". Laziness, for sure. Too lazy to take it home and dispose of it in the right fashion. But when it comes to the larger things mentioned here, refrigerators, microwaves, air conditioners, et cetera, I bet that part of the reason is the out-of-pocket cost of such disposal. At the Norfolk transfer station, there is a price to be paid for disposing of such items, and the cost can be dear when speaking of money-in-your-pocket-right-now... Having lived almost 2 decades in Norfolk's northern neighbor, I can tell you that there seems to be a different attitude toward such disposal when the legal act is simply dropping it off at the transfer station...no out-of-pocket expense...no pay-as-you-go. I believe that the simple notion that "money in my pocket stays there" when visiting the transfer station plays large in how people recycle and dispose of their waste. Up north, there is no pay-as-you-go. The cost of running the transfer station and the user costs are built into the tax rate. Everyone pays for use of the transfer station yearly in their taxes whether or not they make use of it. Perhaps a comparison of the two at the end of the year might show the totals being generally in the same ballpark. But, when faced with getting rid of a large appliance, and knowing that one needs to come up with so many $$$ right now to do it, there are folks out there who will seek an alternative, cheap (as in free unless caught), and out-of sight method of dumping in a neighboring town, or one's own town on a back road. It's not right, but it happens. And I personally believe it happens due to the cost of disposal "when you dispose". Costs borne in taxes that are collected monthly by some bank or other lending agent aren't as "visible" and might not carry the same financial sting as the pay-as-you-go system that charges a healthy fee for disposal beyond the norm... like a refrigerator. Like I said, the costs in the end are probably in the same neighborhood, but when and how one pays may make all the difference. I found it very nice to never be faced with a dumping fee for this or that item. Of course, none of this will stem the tide of trash cast out the window... just because it's there... - TK
6/24 9:05am I agree 100% on the littering issue. I walk/jog along Grove Street daily and the wooded section has more Smirnoff bottles than you can imagine. My question is, who is driving while drinking these and tossing them? There is also an air conditioner in there, and as of late, a pizza box. I have thought of picking it up daily, but I don't want to forgo my jogging because other people can't resist littering. I live on a corner lot and there is a wooded section there. I pick up trash at least a few times a month that people have tossed into my yard. It is so incredibly disrespectful and frustrating. Why is it OK to throw trash onto other people's property when they wouldn't throw it in their own front yard like that. I have in the past wondered if there were any local organizations who do an Earth Day cleanup. I would be willing to participate in an annual cleanup. But the bigger issue is why does this happen in the first place? I'd like to blame out-of-towners who may not care about our community as much, but I doubt there is much out-of-town traffic on Grove and other side streets. Any suggestions are welcome! I'd be happy to help with the cause... - MD
6/24 8:33am JD, I totally agree. Littering is so disgusting. I don't understand the mentality behind it. It's not like there aren't trash containers everywhere, fast food joints, retail stores, or just wait until you get home to dispose of this stuff. And in my book, cigarette butts are indeed litter. I would be happy to get behind any movement to help curb the littering. - JT
6/23 10:45pm According to the police department, all three towns passed the KP High School building project. - Wm.
6/23 9:53pm Is anyone else in town disgusted with all the litter strewn all over the place? I can't take a walk anywhere, whether it's a street or a wooded path, without seeing Dunkin Coolata cups, Gatorade containers, fast food wrappers, beer packaging, and of course cigarette butts. Who are the people tossing this stuff? One would think that litter wouldn't be so prevalent in such a seemingly environmentally conscious town. It sickens me that anyone could be so disrespectful to their own environment and neighbors. What is wrong with people? The other day I found an illegally dumped television by the Miller Street bridge! And last fall I called the town hall about a refrigerator (full size!) that someone had dumped near the power lines & Norfolk Arena. I guess people don't realize our town well is right there. Does anyone else think that litter and illegal dumping need to be addressed? - JD
6/23 4:40pm I noticed in the June 23rd edition of the Sun Chronicle that Norfolk Airport has been sold to 'Norfolk Airport LLC'. I wonder if this is the group which proposed the 'Norfolk AirPark' a while back. Perhaps the folks at the Norfolk Aero Club would have some info about the future of the airport. - RP
6/22 8:43pm I have been in the new gift shop twice now and I must say, there is something for everyone. Stop in and give it a look see. I bet you'll find it to your liking. Happy shopping. - JW
6/22 8:43pm PLEASE VOTE - Please vote Monday 6/23 at the H. O. Day school on Main Street. Please vote YES to support the renovation of the King Philip Regional High School. Voting hours are 7AM to 8PM. - BH
6/22 7:20pm Has anyone been into the new gift shop in Norfolk center? I was interested in hearing about it as I haven't had a chance to stop in. - NS 
6/22 1:37pm The weather forecasters had it almost right, it's been raining all day today, not yesterday. The daisies are holding up well, though, it's cheery how white they are in the gloom. - Wm.
6/21 1:11am Happy Summer Solstice! Today is the longest day of the year, with over 15 hours of daylight. Days will be getting shorter from today until Winter Solstice. Today marks the start of summer; the cumulative warmth of the many long daytime hours will cause temperatures to rise for months still. That's the theory, anyway. Reality, as forecast, is that today will be the longest rainy day of the year :-) - Wm.
6/19 1:29pm To AKS: My neighbor, Gerry Martel, is a master electrician, and lives here in Norfolk. He has done work for me, and is very reliable. His company is ADL Electrical Service, and his # is (508)-528-1726, or (508)-344-4896. - CR
6/19 11:20am PD & AB: While it's always nice to be appreciated, Mother wouldn't be pleased if I didn't give credit where credit is due. Bob Boucher, my partner in trouble making, was the first one to pick up that something was off. I hope everyone heard the Advisory Board's pleas for members. This is an enormously important board that represents the citizens of the town, making informed, participatory democracy possible. They are losing some members and need people who are interested in helping Norfolk through the very important times ahead. The Moderator, Frank Gross, makes appointments to the Board. - Rob Garrity
6/18 11:05pm We saw the replay of Town Meeting last night and we would personally like to thank Rob Garrity for his quick thinking and observations related to the financial error in the Town budget. What more can we say but - thank you. - PD & AB
6/18 11:44am Has anyone out there tried the Rainhandler (rainhandler.com) as a replacement for gutters? Do you know someone who has, and does it work? Their website looks kinda sketchy. - HPK
6/18 10:44am LS, thanks for your post. I was responding in a general way to discussions about development and taxes in town, not specifically about Holbrook Crossing. I'm not sure how I feel about that proposed development, although it does seem like it is a lot more than just age-restricted housing. I agree with your focus on balance, although I would tilt the scales toward the common health and welfare of our community and not toward the property rights of developers. There is a whole world in the gray area between a polluting widget factory and pristine open space.... - DAF
6/18 10:43am DAF: Thanks for the interesting and informative link. I agree we need to discourage certain types of development and encourage others, and debunking the myth that commercial development reduces property taxes without straining town services is important. Development must be good for the town for all the reasons you mention, not just because it may expand the tax base. Norfolk faces some interesting challenges. Clearly, there are a lot of thoughtful people paying attention to the issue. Let's hope all sides get a fair airing in an appropriate setting. - TC
6/18 10:42am Hi, I am looking for am electrician to get some repairs done. Can someone recommend one. Thanks, - AKS
6/17 8:15pm To DAF - I suspect you're commenting on the proposed development that may happen near Holbrook. Your last comment got me thinking when you say "And so it unfolds in an unplanned manner". One of the goals in the Strategic plan of the Selectman, Planning Board, Zoning Boards, etc MAY have been to approve a development of a abandoned gravel pit. We don't know. What part of the development that is proposed is such a bad thing? I'm all for protecting open space but this is private property. They can't protect it if they wanted and why would they want to? Town is facing severe budget issues and 100+ age restricted housing units would broaden our tax base yet be much less of a burden that 100+ single family home with 2.3 kids each. I'll jump on the bandwagon for protecting open space if a developer wants to construct a widget factory that is not good for the environment but this seems like a no brainer. The key to your quoted paragraph says it all, "to strike a balance". -LS
6/17 8:10pm Questions on signs... I found the Town Bylaws online and was reading them last night. (I know I should get a life). Coincidentally, I went through the drive-thru at Dunkin Donuts with my kids this morning and noticed 3 signs advertising a few of their products. They were on wood post near the spot where you order. A quick glance at the Town by-laws (Article IX: Section 6: Part G) and one would assume these were not allowed. If the Building Commissioner/Zoning Officer reads this board then go check it out. In the big scheme of things this is not a big concern to me but I thought it was ironic in that I had just read that section of the bylaws. - LS
6/17 2:26pm The discussion around development usually revolves around a Hobson's choice of one flavor or another: allow developers to do whatever wherever they want or watch the schools decline, attract more commercial activity to town or see your property taxes rise at an alarming rate, and so on. These are false choices. A great resource for helping to inform our choices is the Community Choices Report. I think TC was right when he/she brought education into the picture -- although it is more than just the schools. To quote the abovementioned report: "When planning for a town's future, property taxes are just one of many concerns. Most communities strive to create a prosperous and healthy environment in which to raise the next generation--not solely to maintain low tax rates. The challenge when evaluating future investments is to strike a balance between what improves the community, what residents can afford, and what is fair." And that is the crux of the issue, I believe. We should protect open space strategically, discourage some types of development, and encourage others. The problem is that we do not have a consensus on what we want and what we don't want in this town. And so it unfolds in an unplanned manner. - DAF
6/16 4:01pm Congratulations NorfolkNet! You're 4 years old! Surprisingly, it took 4 years before the first Internet hoax showed up in the postings. I'm referring, of course, to the post regarding the use of dishwashing soap to eliminate mosquitoes. Click here for the story behind this urban legend. Which once again proves that you can't believe everything you read on the Internet. - RP
6/16 11:47am Thanks TC, I appreciate the thoughts and the background information... I had a chance to walk around and meet some folks this weekend and discuss this plan, and you can sense the tension you mentioned. The common thread seems to be let's all decide on an area where retail would work in the town and meanwhile doing what we can to protect neighborhoods and the character of the town. It goes without saying that we hope to stay in Norfolk for the long haul. - KS
6/16 11:46am Thanks for the comments LS, ultimately the idea here is to promote discussion on the land and its future use. Personally one could argue that additional housing on a smaller scale in this area could work if it was part of a larger plan, but the retail portion of the project is another question entirely, especially so close to the existing neighborhood on Holbrook Street. - KS
6/15 11:05pm TK, KS, It is interesting to see the tension in town over the issue of development v. open space. I see it as part of a broader issue facing Norfolk, one reflected in another timely and important debate, the KP High rennovation. As a relative newcomer (seven years), I share many of the sentiments expressed on both sides of the development debate. We moved from the city and chose Norfolk precisely because of its rural character, yet we were pleased when our realtor told us there were plans underway for a relatively small retail development on what is now affectionately known as Pebble Hill. A nice small town with all the charm and a few of the amenities sounded perfect to us. We've since learned that many realtors tell many newcomers of the plans for retail development in town, when in fact there are no real plans to speak of. My initial reaction to the Holbrook project is that it sounds like every other suburban retail center/office park, and that it is not in keeping with the character of Norfolk. With Pebble Hill sitting there begging for use, and most in town in agreement on that, it seems a shame to start building around the area in ways inconsistent with the wishes of the people. What I hear time and again is that we need a nice, manageable sized downtown. The broader issue I mentioned earlier is this: Norfolk is getting a reputation as a "starter" town, a place where you can buy your first home, then leave for a "real" town, one with enough of a commercial/retail center to lend a sense of community and a better school system. The reputation of the schools up to the junior high is strong and favorable. But many people expect to have to send their kids elsewhere once they get to junior high and particularly high school, and as someone mentioned earlier, that means either private school or moving away. The residential development in Norfolk has been staggering, as are the costs of these new homes. Norfolk is going great guns building housing and attracting folks with more means, but is falling short on the community-building/education side of things. Granted, the KP project is complicated by the fact that we need three towns to agree, and I suspect the measure will pass with flying colors in Norfolk. But, at the risk of oversimplifying what I know are an extremely complex issues, Norfolk needs to decide what it wants to be and move in one direction or another. - TC
6/15 11:04pm This appeared in the Bridgewater COA May issue. Perhaps people may want to try it. I found this bit of information on the Internet. Haven't had a chance to try it out but thought I'd pass it along. The information was given at a gardening forum.- JOPut some water in a white dinner plate and add just a couple of drops of Lemon Fresh Joy dishwashing soap. Set the dish on a porch or patio. Not sure what attracts them, the lemon smell, the white color, or what, but mosquitoes flock to it, and drop dead, or fall into the water, or on the floor within about 10 feet. I'm told it works just super! So enjoy a mosquito free summer!
6/15 10:08pm To BS - There are two Toastmasters Chapters in Foxboro. Just do an Internet search for "Toastmasters Foxboro" for full info. - RP
6/15 9:06pm BS, I'm pretty sure there is a Toastmaster's chapter in Franklin. I've seen mention of them in the Gazette. - GA
6/15 9:02pm To KS - Thanks for the info. Although I disagree that this is bad for Norfolk. I think this is a great spot for it as well as bringing in some additional tax revenue but without the burden of increasing the population in the schools. Seems like a win/win. The site mentions wetlands, but if I remember correctly that is an abandoned gravel pit that has been like that for 15+ years. - LS
6/13 9:56pm For all interested in the proposed King Philip High School renovation, here is a good website which answers a lot of questions about both costs and construction plans: [King Philip Education Action Committee site] - JCE
6/13 9:55pm To JM: The King Philip High School Building Committee has a web page describing the building project at: [kingphilip.org page] - VR
6/13 9:54pm Is there a Toastmaster's International club here in Norfolk? I'd like a telephone number if there is one. - BS
6/13 4:11pm Actually TK I'm not anti-development, however when somebody plans on putting 250 parking spaces within sniffing distance I tend to get a little antsy. Yes, a gravel pit indeed, but try driving down Holbrook Street or Rte 115 some night and imagine a large shopping center instead of what is there now. If that is your preference then you are more cynical and hard-bitten than I. See you at the meeting. - KS
[6:07 Oops, had the wrong signature - Wm.]
6/13 3:44pm So, once again the anti-development folks come to the fore... I love the argument that, how did they put it... "There is also an aesthetic question to be answered, does the town of Norfolk want the gateway from the Millis line to be a large asphalt parking lot or the natural greenspace that is it known for?" It's a gravel pit!! A gravel pit!! Natural Greenspace??? No...it's a gravel pit and has been for ages. Some "gateway to Norfolk" that is. It's just about on par with the center of town, Mount Pebble. Perhaps that's just what those who oppose development seek? I find that hard to believe. - TK
6/13 3:43pm RH, thanks for the Globe article link. Is there a way to find out more about the actual renovation plans (i.e. how much more square footage, number of added classrooms, overall school improvements)? Over the past five years or so, all three towns involved have grown significantly, population-wise, due to so many new housing developments. I would estimate that a majority of these new homes were purchased by young families, who I'm sure expect a quality education for their children. While my two kids are both fairly young (under 5), this will affect their future schooling dramatically. If KP loses accreditation, I have overheard many parents with young kids suggest that they will either choose private schooling as an option or move out of the town. I agree that losing accreditation will affect our housing values. Look at Medfield for example. The school system has kept to a high standard and even the smallest house is going for top price. The Globe article suggests that many seniors would oppose the tax increase, but I think it could be more broadly based, where those individuals with no link to the school system would be opposed. But with no quality school in place, everyone will take a hit. - JM
6/13 1:58pm I posted a message here the other day regarding a proposed 51.5 acre office/retail/housing complex on RTE 115 and Holbrook Street. I was able to gather some data, plans, etc. from the Planning Board and have posted them at the following site: holbrookcrossing.com. - KS
[Thanks for the info! I've been on Holbrook recently, and I can't locate the already constructed building on the map. There is a large, official-looking structure built next to what seems like an entry off Holbrook St. Is this map the final? - Wm.]
6/13 1:58pm Re: 6/13 11:42am KP High School A good summary of the KP High School situation can be found at [6/12 Boston Globe article] It is very important that the three District towns, Norfolk, Wrentham, and Plainville, vote YES for the King Philip Regional High School renovation. There are some misguided individuals in opposition, the same ones that stopped the previous approval process in Wrentham of the school renovation, and as a consequence of the lack of that approval, the State will now contribute less, and the bill goes up for the residents of the three towns. The state contribution will take a very sharp drop next year. My two youngsters graduated years ago, but if we do not renovate the High School now, the school will lose its accreditation, and all of our homes will lose resale value. Home buyers check out the schools, and no one wants to live in a district where the high school is not accredited, since colleges look at high school status when accepting applicants. Please vote yes and support our King Philip Regional High School! - RH
6/13 11:42am I have (sadly) not been able to keep abreast of the KP Schools situation, but have begun seeing signs posted to vote for the override. I heard some rumors a few weeks back that we were waiting on Wrentham's decision to bring the override to a vote. Can someone provide a brief synopsis of the current proposed plan for the school and the details of the override vote? Or provide a link where more details can be found? Being a fairly important topic for the town, I am surprised that there have not been any postings for discussion prior to this. - JM
6/12 3:25pm To EH: Thanks for the tip on Main Street Hardware. Supporting our local shops is not only good business, but you can probably save yourself a lot of time by not having to leave town. Being the family 'Handy Man', many times I've needed a few more nails, nuts or bolts to finish a weekend project or some plumbing supplies to fix that leaky faucet. Ed and his crew have always been pleasant and helpful. - RP (a frequent visitor to Main Street Hardware).
6/12 12:36pm Is the drainage project on the path from the Kids Place on Boardman Street to the center of town and the train station ever going to be completed? Drains and pipes have been left uncovered. The path near the drainage holding area is nearly impassable with ruts, rocks, and debris. Also with all the rain we have had, there is only a very small trickle of water going into the holding area. What gives? - WLS
6/12 11:51am Many of the drivers in Norfolk may be courteous, but some of the folks who park at the MBTA lot sure aren't. As has been noted in the past, many of the drivers avoided the parking fee by parking adjacent to the access road, which denies the town a cut of the parking fees that I assume Norfolk receives from the lot operator. I have noticed that the town has ticketed the cars on an irregular basis which has cut down on this practice. Yesterday I was running late for the train and I couldn't get my $2 all the way into the slot. Returning last evening, my car had been ticketed - someone had swiped my money! - EW
6/12 9:20am Lost cat found: I live on Union Street in Norfolk and have noticed a lost cat. The cat is brown in color and appears to be domesticated and not wild. The cat is quite friendly and looks like it came from a good home. If this is your cat please contact the animal control officer at the Norfolk Police Station [508-528-3232]. Thanks, - EF
6/12 9:18am If the water quality is as bad as some posts suggest (I have my own well), then the water department should consider a mechanical cleaning of the lines. I found this link by doing a search [link]. "It cleans the pipelines by hydraulically or pneumatically propelling a series of flexible foam poly-pigs (cleaners) through them. In the case of heavy build-ups, the poly-pigs are introduced into the system in a progressive manner beginning with smaller and softer cleaning units working up to full sized cleaners with abrasive qualities. This ply-pig cleaning method has proven to be the safest, fastest and most economical way to clean most pipelines."In addition to clean water lines, the well pumps would use less energy because the friction loss would decrease after clearing the lines... Must be a local company in New England that does this type of work??-LS
6/11 11:00pm I think that multi-family yard sale should be held yesterday, cause I think it's going to rain the rest of the year. - JW
6/11 10:44pm The multi-family yard sale listed on the Bulletin Board has been postponed due to the forecasted bad weather to next Friday, 6/20. - Wm.
6/11 5:04pm Thank you to those who responded to the water dilemma. I appreciate the options that are out there, however, it concerns me that why would people of Norfolk need to purchase their own water filters when we already pay for the water and service. Since this is a particular problem that the Water Department is aware of, I feel they should address it sooner rather than later. - JH
6/11 4:16pm Iron Out and water filters can be purchased at our own hardware store in Norfolk, Main Street Hardware. - EH
6/11 11:35am I'm looking to learn more about the proposed mixed-use development at the site of the old gravel pit on RTE 115 and Holbrook Street. I'm going to view the plans at the town hall this week and attend the Placido Special Permit Hearing at the Town Hall (June 19th, 8:15 PM, Room 105C) but was curious if anybody knew anything regarding the scope of the project and past history to develop this site. As I know it, the project calls for 136 apartment units, a restaurant and office space. Thanks for your help. - KS
6/11 11:33am RE: rust, etc. in water-There is a product called Iron Out that you can buy to remove iron stains from fabric. I don't know where you can buy it, but it does work if you find the stains BEFORE you dry them. When I was a kid my mother used to buy it at the local True Value Hardware store and because we had problems on and off, she always had a box handy. Hope this helps. - MJD
6/11 9:47am RE: Iron filters for water supply. I've had mine for over 5 years and it's amazing the amount of rust and sediment it traps. I recommend the clear housing so you can see how well it works. And be sure to buy replacement filter cartridges rated at 5 microns or less. The beauty of these filters is that the dirtier they get, the more they trap. I change mine once a year and rust has never penetrated through the element. You can get the filter housing and filter elements at very low cost at Home Depot, Sears and Lowe's - all stores in this area. You install it in the main water line near where it enters your house. Installation is easy but if you're not familiar with cutting and soldering copper water pipe, call a plumber. - RP
6/10 5:26pm To JH: A filter can be purchased for your house that will remove iron and rust from your water supply so you won't be at the mercy of others. At this website [aquapure.com/homewater] there are lists of common water problems and how to fix them. The nearest supplier for this filters is J.D. Daddario in Franklin... they are less expensive than buying them online. I purchased an AP-801 and paid about $75.00 for the housing and a cartridge. These cartridges are fairly inexpensive as you will have to change them out every 6 months of so. I recommend buying the one with the clear housing so you can see if the filter is clogged. Any of the local licensed plumbers can install this filter. I also would recommend that the use of chlorine bleach be limited or avoided in clothes washing if your water is rusty. Due to the chemical reaction between chlorine and the dissolved iron, the iron will create blotches onto clothing, and also certain types of cloth will tend to disintegrate after repeated washings. This later problem is something that was learned the hard way. - AB
6/10 12:00pm PR and JW - I completely agree. The local drivers here are dangerously courteous - coming from England I can't believe how [silly] some of these gestures are. Please people, don't try to be nice, just drive safely and follow the rules of the road. I know this sounds ungrateful, but I'd rather reach my destination without incident, and I'm sure you would too. - JP
6/10 11:21am I received the notice from the Water Department and find this inexcusable that we have to wait til fall for this water to be cleaned up. It is now occurring everyday on the Walpole side of Main Street. Who wants to wash their clothes in brown water, brush their teeth, do laundry and take showers with this water. The letter from the Water Department states that this is not considered a health issue. I tend to disagree with that, never mind the brown stains that this leaves behind in the bathroom toilets if you are gone all days and that water just sits there. Is there any way of getting this matter "cleaned up" sooner than the fall? - JH
6/10 11:20am Serve New England is a food co-op; Norfolk has a chapter. It's a great way to save money on food, and reward people who are active in doing community service work. For more information, visit the link to the Norfolk Serve site, or Serve's website at: www.servenewengland.org. This month's newsletter is available at the library, and back entrance to the Federated Church. June's orders must be placed by June 16, and pick up day is Saturday, June 28th at the church. - CR
6/10 10:49am JW, could not agree with you more. I am from out of state and I noticed this difference when I first moved here. I would say the same thing, it's a safety hazard. Stopping abruptly on a road to allow someone to cross or whatever is a hazard and clogs the flow of traffic. It adds confusion due to its unwritten rule. Not everyone can be in anticipation of these events. Another thing of concern is the traffic signal situation. This is when some people allow the oncoming left-turning car to go first when the light turns green. Coming from a different perspective, there are too many driving and road hazards to name on these town roads. I have had people give me the evil eye because I took my right of way and was not so-called "courteous", but I am not one to stop on a main street and put myself in jeopardy so another can complete his shortcut across the road. - PR
6/9 1:18pm To PG, I thought one of the purposes of this web site was to ask questions and "wonder out loud." I would be delighted to add my voice to the advocacy effort. Just point me in the right direction. I also think it's fine to ask where our elected officials are on any number of issues that affect our citizens (that's why we choose them to represent us). - MJD
6/9 1:14pm I have noticed that more and more drivers are trying to be courteous to other drivers. You would think that this is a good thing, but I find more and more that it is really a very dangerous practice. Road courtesy is dangerous? Hmm, how can that be? There is a reason that the government has made laws for drivers to follow, it is called safety. I think people have forgotten the "Right of Way" rule. If everyone took their right of way, there would be fewer accidents and scary moments on the road. I was driving through Millis Friday. I stopped to make a left turn off a main road. The person coming toward me, stopped her vehicle to let me take my left. Sounds really nice of her right? Wrong. She not only endangered herself, me, and anyone else coming either way, but delayed things to boot. Suppose I had started to take the left and she changed her mind, maybe I delayed a bit or she got distracted by someone barreling down her rear-end (the person behind her did not expect someone to be stopped in the middle of a thru way) so I stayed where I was and waited for my "Right of way." Same day going up Pleasant St. toward Franklin, A car coming toward Norfolk stopped in the road to let a car back out of their driveway. Nice, right? Wrong. The person backing out of their driveway, backed out onto my side of the road making me have to brake, swerve and sweat. The one that made me write this essay was yesterday heading toward Franklin. I approached the fork in the road at Chestnut and Pleasant St. A car going up Chestnut decided to be nice and stop to let 2 cars come out from the stop sign. That driver put several other vehicles in major danger. Come on people, drive defensively. You want to be nice to someone? Next time you're in a store, let someone cut in front of you or give up your seat on a train, but for safety's sake, take your "Right of Way" on the road. More at 11. - JW
6/9 9:34am To HB: I live in Norfolk and have a pet sitting business. I'd be pleased to speak with you about taking care of your puppies. Please e-mail me at rcs@rondasnyder.com. I look forward to hearing from you. - RS
[I've added the full contact information to the Town Business Listings under R.C. Snyder Associates - Wm.]
6/8 6:47pm To MJB - Our elected officials have been working tirelessly along with members of the Council on Aging and the Selectmen's office for more than just a few years on this. The MBTA is a big, powerful department and getting them to change any of their decisions is almost impossible. I suggest that rather than wondering out loud (...where are our elected officials...) you call either the Council on Aging, the Selectmen's office, Sen. Jacques or Rep Brown to get a full and complete answer to your question. - PG
6/7 1:20pm Is there a Democratic equivalent to the Republican Town Committee here in Norfolk? - TAC
6/7 1:19pm Sorry to pass along misinformation. I looked at the MBTA web site again and the info I received about the availability of The Ride in Norfolk does appear to be incorrect. My question now is why in heavens name if it operates in Walpole and Medfield has it been difficult to get in Norfolk. Where are our elected officials on this one (Rep Brown, Sen Jacques). We have the CR so why not The Ride? Any thoughts on what we can do to geth this taken care of? - MJD
6/7 1:18pm To repeat what PG said (6/6, 1:12), "The Ride" is not available in Norfolk. Refer to: [at mbta.com] for information about The Ride, including a list of the sixty-two (62) cities and towns where it does operate. Unfortunately, Norfolk is not among them. - AN
6/6 8:19pm Tylers Restaurant - Dedham St., Norfolk - could accommodate the function for 40 to 50 people. Tylers phone number is 508-384-5122. - ER
[Updated 6/7 1:21pm]
6/6 4:54pm I am looking for a place to hold a function for 40-50 people, a luncheon on a Sunday. Would be great if it was in Norfolk, Franklin or Wrentham. Needs to be reasonably priced and have a decent atmosphere, private room etc. Any suggestions? - MJD
6/6 4:53pm Hello, Does anyone know of a good dog walker in Norfolk? My husband and I are looking at getting two puppies and would like to find someone to walk the dogs once a day. - HB
6/6 1:12pm For those who think otherwise, THE RIDE does not operate in Norfolk. There has been a long-standing effort to get it in Norfolk, but to date those efforts have been fruitless. - PG
6/6 11:46am The Federated Church of Norfolk Sunday Service will be held at 9:00 am starting on June 15 and continuing until September 14, when 10:00 am service time will resume. There will be no Sunday School Classes during the summer, but there will be childcare for children age 3 and under, whose parents are attending the service. Summer office hours will be Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. The office will be closed on Fridays. - LD
6/6 10:52am [JN -] I know that THE RIDE operates in Norfolk and if you want to see if your neighbor qualifies you can call (617) 222-5123 or (800) 533-6282. I know that seniors and those with disabilities use it closer to the city and it seems pretty reliable etc. There is info available on MBTA.com. Worth a try. - MJD
6/6 10:43am The Norfolk Republican Town Committee will be holding a meeting Tuesday, June 24th, at 7:30 in Room 124 of the Town Hall. The Committee will be electing new members and choosing officers for the coming year. Other topics to be discussed will be the End of Summer Cookout and the Fall Guest Speaker program. Also, registered Republicans interested in serving the town as a registrar of voters should contact the committee to express their interest. The Town Committee may be reached through Rob G. at 508-520-6918, or via email at NorfolkGOP@mail.com - RG
6/5 11:13am To JP - Regarding the whale watching... My husband and children took the New England Aquarium whale watch trip a few years back and had a great time. There were informational discussions on board with Aquarium personnel. They learned about the whales and what we need to do to protect their habitat. After hearing about their adventure, it almost made me want to get on a boat, but not quite! Hope this helps. - TW
6/4 3:17pm I have a neighbor that needs a ride to a Boston hospital, for a Dr's appointment. Is there any person or program that can help an elderly person (from Norfolk) get to their appointments? Thank you in advance! - JN
6/4 9:25am Re: JP's request for whale watching info: I have never used them myself before, but I hear they are pretty reputable. Capt. John Boats, Town Wharf, Plymouth, MA 800-242-AHOY. Or check them out at www.captjohn.com - HNP
