NORWOOD — In a somber moment during Tuesday night’s Board of Selectmen meeting, the town bid a premature professional farewell to one of its most enduring fixtures. Selectman William Plasko, a man whose name has been synonymous with Norwood town government for over half a century, has officially submitted his resignation.
The announcement, read by the Board Chair Amanda Grow during the January 13th session, cited health considerations and a desire to prioritize family time as the primary drivers behind the difficult decision.
In a letter described as having been written with “deep regret and a heavy heart,” Plasko noted that his resignation will not be effective immediately. Instead, he will serve out the next few months, officially stepping down on April 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
“Anyone who knows me knows that I do not take my commitment to this town lightly,” Plasko wrote. “However, at this time, due to health considerations, I must focus my energy on my health and prioritize the time I spend with my family… the people who have stood by me throughout every late-night meeting.”
Plasko’s tenure spans an incredible 50 years of active involvement in local government, a feat several board members noted is nearly “irreplaceable.”
The Board acted swiftly to ensure a smooth transition for the town’s governance. A motion was unanimously passed to advise the Town Clerk to place the remaining year of Plasko’s term on the upcoming April 6, 2026, town election ballot.
By timing his resignation for early April, Plasko has allowed the community to choose his successor during the regular election cycle, avoiding the need for a costly special election.
Fellow board members took turns reflecting on Plasco’s mentorship and his encyclopedic knowledge of procedural matters. Board Chair Amanda Grow highlighted Plasko’s ongoing role as Vice Chair, noting that he will continue to support the board in that capacity until his final day in April. His counterparts emphasized that while the letter marks the beginning of the end of his term, they intend to hold a formal celebration in the future to properly “embarrass” and thank him for his service.
“He makes a decision where he’s balancing the needs of the community and his needs as well,” Selectman Robert Donnelly remarked. “And as he always does, he comes to the right conclusion. Health and family always come first.”
As Norwood prepares for the April elections, the shadow of Plasko’s departure looms large as Selectman Mathew Lane announced late last year he would not be running for reelection. With two vacancies, Norwood’s town leadership may be headed for a shift in direction. Nomination papers are now available in the town clerk’s office.
Bill Plasko could not be reached for comment. -RD
