y wife, Paula, and I came to Oxford in 2006, drawn by the beauty and serenity of this town. We came to love the friendly atmosphere, saying “Good Morning”, waving “hello” to a passing car. I was also impressed by the spirit of volunteerism. Everything in Oxford seemed to be run by citizens willing to donate their time, resources and expertise to make the various institutions of the town work. I was inspired to commit my time to serving various organizations from the Oxford Community Center to the Oxford Planning Commission to the Sea Level Rise Study Group. I felt I could make a difference, and I believe I have.
But in early 2023 the town was stunned to learn of a change in the Oxford Police Department. This event led to an explosion of emails, social media posts, town meetings, and angry statements. Much of this was aimed at the Town Manager.
In early March 2024 the first of 3 slickly produced videos began to circulate, portraying the town as corrupt, governed by dishonesty and incompetence. The videos wove an ugly story using half-truths and innuendo to paint Oxford as a place that I did not recognize.
Perhaps we should not be surprised that we have become a town of “Us” versus “Them”. Perhaps, the national trend toward divisiveness and anger has seeped into the local psyche.
Is Oxford incompetent and corrupt? My answer is a resounding “No”! While we are not perfect, our town has accomplished some amazing things over the past few years. Construction of a new $17 million sewage/wastewater treatment plant to replace the failing existing system that was polluting our waters; restoration of the historic Oxford Community Center; stabilizing the shoreline surrounding the town, including our magnificent town park; relining the water lines along Morris Street; preserving the iconic Mews Building in the “downtown” that now draws crowds to the Highland Creamery; and the creation of the Oxford dog park, among others.
I am running for town commissioner because I believe I can bring my volunteer experience in Oxford and elsewhere and my professional knowledge to that position. I have and will run a campaign based on the important issues and challenges our town faces.
I have recently learned that there are some who would cast me and my campaign as simply a front for the “old guard” or the “old powerbrokers.”
LET ME BE CLEAR – I am running to represent all the citizens of Oxford, not one “camp” or the other. Characterizing me that way continues the effort to divide the town. Whoever these folks are who wish to profit by encouraging dissension, I ask that they open their minds and hearts to truly hear my message and recognize that the town of Oxford is my focus in this campaign. I stand on my record. I stand for Oxford.
Norm Bell
Candidate for Oxford Town Commissioner
Frank Menditch says
I have known Norman Bell for many years! He is a fair and honorable person.
As a past President of Temple B’nai Israel synagogue, I have worked with Norm on several projects. Norman was Treasurer of the synagogue for many years. We raised the funding to construct a new building and executed the construction. Norm financially guided the entire project with many hours of selfless service.
And guided the operational funding for the Synagogue. All as a volunteer! Oxford would be very lucky to have Norman as a commissioner
Steve Goldman says
As a long time resident of Oxford, MD and knowing Norm as I do, he has the temperament and the ability to be objective and analytical in his approach to helping the town of Oxford remain the oasis of tranquility that its residents want and deserve. I am very supportive of him as a Commisioner of Oxford and would encourage residents of Oxford to support him as well.