Letter to the Editor

To the Editor: Regardless of the conditions found at the Swenson home in July, Norfolk building commissioner Robert Bullock has stated that alternatives to throwing them out of their home existed and he could have worked with them to remedy the situation (“De­nied,” Friday, January 29). My personal testimony is that I walked past the home, on several occasion this past summer and did not detect the odor of dead cats or anything else — and yes, the windows were open. In addition, members of my family have done the same over the past fiveyears, no odor, nothing. Nor have I head any complaints by neighbors regarding same, even those in close proximity.

The consequences of the decision were not sufficiently con­sidered. Owners of aggressive dogs, even when they have bitten neighbors, receive several warning and a hearing by the Board of Selectmen before the animal is banished from the town or con­demned.

The difference is that the Swenson’s had no power, no voice, no money and no guidance — a problem that appears to have plagued them for many years, in addition their many health issues. They just lived in their little house and did what they could do, which was very little. However, Mr. Swenson did manage to call the town for help in July when he was attacked by a skunk that chased him into his house, which is what began this apocalyptic episode for them. He reportedly fought it off with his crutches the first time but it returned. Perhaps doctor’s at the hospital where he and his wife reportedly stayed for a week, were concerned about rabies; or that they had no where else to go.

I’m sure he regrets making that phone call. Nevertheless, that is not now the issue. The focus of our community: the BOS. Mr. Bullock, Muriel St. Amand, our rep­resentatives,

and the residents that are so inclined; should be on how to quickly restore what was taken from the couple in July; a home and whatever dignity they had before this unfortunate episode occurred. This need not be a zero sum game. We can come together, do the right thing and all achieve a genuine com­munity

victory that matters in the lives of two human beings in our town, which have committed no crime. Ms. St Amand, you are Norfolk’s quarterback in this Super Bowl; please stop the suffering of this old couple and collaborate with town officials to create a workable solution to restore dignity to the Swensons, and our town.

Please get involved.

John Bermingham
Priscilla Avenue