NORWOOD – After six years of service on the Norwood Board of Selectmen, Matthew Lane has announced he will not seek reelection in 2026. In a recent interview, Lane reflected on his tenure, citing the increasing demands of family life as the primary reason for his decision to step away from town governance.
“Serving on the Board of Selectman has been a rewarding experience, but it’s a significant time commitment,” Lane explained. “When I first ran, my children were younger and life was a little less busy, but now that they’re older and seem to be into everything, I feel like I’m missing things with them (and my wife) that I don’t want to miss.”
While Lane largely found the job to be what he expected, he noted that the constant public nature of the role was something he hadn’t fully anticipated.
“I don’t think I was prepared for how a quick trip to the Big Y could turn into a 45-minute discussion with a constituent about sidewalks,” he said.
Lane, whose day job is based in Boston, also noted the difficulty of maximizing his time at Town Hall, though he greatly enjoyed his committee work. “I enjoyed serving as the board’s representative on myriad committees, task forces, etc. which I believed was a great way to get into the weeds on important stuff and have an opportunity to work with many different people across municipal governance” Lane said.
Addressing the frequent criticisms and perceived disarray often discussed on social media, Lane offered a more optimistic perspective on the town’s functioning. “I would guess the demise of Norwood is greatly exaggerated online,” Lane said.
He pointed to the steady, successful execution of essential municipal services as proof of the town’s continuity. “In terms of continuity, we educate our students, people’s trash and recycling get picked up, the lights stay on, roads and sidewalks are maintained and repaired, police and fire respond to all calls, etc.” Lane said. “I feel like a town in disarray wouldn’t allow for that.”
As the town approaches its next election cycle, Lane offered strong advice for potential candidates looking to fill his seat. He suggests the candidate “strongly consider the collaborative element of the position and be a good listener who can consider differing viewpoints.” Lane adds “a grievance-fueled candidate, should they win an election, will be an ineffective board member and ultimately a disservice to the town.”
Lane’s decision opens a key seat on the Norwood Board of Selectmen, and the community will soon be looking to see which candidates step forward to embrace the collaborative and time-intensive commitment of town leadership. Nomination papers will be available in the Town Clerk’s Office after January 1, 2026 for those interested in running for an elected position. -RD
Thank You for serving on the Select Board for our Town. You did a great job. You will be missed on the Board. However, I understand your decision.