NORWELL - February 4, 2026 - The Norwell Select Board took a definitive step toward selling the historic Stetson-Ford House this week, voting 4-1 to place a “no-demolition” restriction on the property while rejecting more stringent aesthetic controls. The decision highlights a growing tension between the town’s desire to preserve its colonial heritage and the practical reality of maintaining aging infrastructure and respecting private property rights.
The Full Story
The future of the Stetson-Ford House, a colonial-era structure located on Meadow Farm Way, dominated the board’s discussion. Former Select Board member Bruce Graham, acting as a project champion, presented the board with an “Approval Not Required” (ANR) plan to carve out a 5.25-acre lot for the house, making it marketable for sale. The property, currently rented for $21,000 annually, is estimated to have a market value exceeding $1 million.
The central debate revolved around what restrictions should be attached to the deed. Select Board Chair Pete Smellie initially advocated for visual restrictions to ensure any future additions matched the home’s 18th-century character. However, Select Board member Andy Reardon voiced a staunch opposition to government overreach.
“If you’re not paying the mortgage, then stay off of my property... Let’s put [the sale proceeds] into the town coffers... and stay out of someone’s personal business.” [01:22:54] — Andy Reardon
Wendy Bawabe of the Norwell Historical Society clarified that the Stetson-Ford House is one of only two Norwell homes on the National Register of Historic Places. She warned that without a deed restriction, the National Register status provides “zero protection” against a buyer waiting out the town’s one-year demolition delay bylaw to tear the house down. Ultimately, the board compromised on a “no-demolition” clause but declined to require Historical Commission oversight for aesthetic changes, citing concerns over devaluing the property and creating an “onerous” burden for the buyer.
South Shore Tech Expansion and Pembroke Admission Earlier in the meeting, South Shore Vocational Technical High School Superintendent Tom Hickey provided an update on the district’s massive building project and a forthcoming warrant article to admit Pembroke as a member community. Hickey reported that enrollment is at an all-time high, with two applicants for every available ninth-grade seat. If approved by six of the nine member towns, Pembroke would join in Fiscal 2028, potentially providing a “10% haircut” on debt costs for existing towns like Norwell by expanding the assessment base.
Health Insurance Rates Provide Fiscal Relief In a rare piece of good news for the municipal budget, Sue Shillue, from the Hilb Group, reported that health insurance rate increases for FY27 are significantly lower than anticipated. While last year saw a 15% average increase, the upcoming average is projected at 8.3%. The board also flatly rejected a “desperate” request from the Mayflower Municipal Health Group for a commitment letter without seeing final rates, choosing instead to stay with the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA).
The Fogg Forest Access Dispute A heated discussion broke out regarding access to Fogg Forest. Since the installation of new sidewalks on Main Street, the curb cut for the forest entrance has been narrowed, making it difficult for residents to pull in and out safely. Highway Director Glenn Ferguson expressed concern that inviting more car traffic into the meadow would lead to ruts, mud, and lawsuits. Conversely, Conservation Agent Will Saunders argued that the town has an obligation to provide safe access to the land. The board directed both departments to meet and find a short-term solution for safe ingress/egress.
Why It Matters
For Norwell taxpayers, the sale of the Stetson-Ford House represents a significant one-time revenue infusion and the removal of a “poor investment” from the town’s books. However, the decision to limit protections for the house means its long-term historical integrity will rely on the stewardship of a private buyer rather than municipal oversight. Residents should also note the potential for a 10th town to join the vocational school district, which could stabilize long-term educational assessments but will reduce opportunities for Norwell students.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To direct Town Counsel to draft language for the sale of the Stetson Ford House with a restriction against future demolition.
Vote: 4-1 (Andy Reardon dissenting) (01:47:03)
Motion: To approve the amended language for the addition of Pembroke to the South Shore Vocational Technical High School regional agreement.
Vote: 5-0 (00:28:28)
Motion: To set the Town Election for May 16, 2026, with polling hours from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Vote: 5-0 (02:50:23)
Public Comment
Andrew Keeler (Meadow Farm Way): Expressed serious concerns regarding road maintenance for the private way leading to the Stetson-Ford House, noting that residents were previously told the town maintained the road.
Professor John Stilgoe (Central Street): Urged the board to prohibit all car parking in Fogg Forest to preserve the “beautiful meadow” as the donors intended.
What’s Next
Fogg Forest: Conservation and Highway departments will meet to discuss a safety solution for the Main Street entrance.
Stetson-Ford House: Town Counsel will finalize the deed language for the sale; the A&R plan will go before the Planning Board in March.
Joint Meeting: The Select Board and Planning Board will hold a joint meeting on February 25 to review warrant articles.