New Management at Norwood Hospital Resolves $121,000 Water Bill Dispute

Needham's Select Board has resolved a long-standing dispute regarding water bill payments from Norwood Hospital, bringing the hospital's account current after years of negotiations. The board approved a water and sewer abatement that will settle outstanding charges, totaling approximately $121,000 after accounting for a proposed abatement of $51,000.

The issue dates back to 2018 and 2019 when the hospital had been withholding payments due to disputes over water usage and billing accuracy. The situation was complicated by changes in hospital management and the installation of a faulty water meter that inaccurately recorded consumption. After extensive discussions and documentation review, the new administration at the hospital agreed to the resolution, which includes timely future payments.

Cecilia, a key figure in the negotiations, emphasized the importance of proper meter inspections to avoid similar issues in the future. The board's decision not only resolves the financial dispute but also ensures that the hospital will maintain timely payments moving forward.

The resolution marks a significant step in improving the relationship between the town and the hospital, which has faced various challenges over the years, including the impact of the pandemic. The Select Board's approval of the abatement is expected to foster better communication and cooperation in the future, ultimately benefiting the community as a whole.