Westfield public meetings in 2025

Retirement Board

The Westfield Retirement Board will discuss the annual reviews of its investment managers, including Pimco, Columbia, and IR+M, and present a monthly performance review. It will consider any recommended changes to the investment portfolio. The board will adopt the PERAC valuation and address a notice of deposit. It will also approve retirement and disability applications and related figures.

• Annual investment manager reviews (Pimco, Columbia, IR+M)
• Monthly investment performance review
• Adoption of PERAC valuation
• Notice of deposit discussion
• Approval of retirement and disability applications

The board approved the bills and warrants totaling $2,348,865.57 and ratified the November 20, 2025 meeting minutes. It accepted two retirement applications and approved retirement figures for three members. The board adopted Funding Schedule Alternative I for the 2025 PERAC valuation and decided to keep monthly Notice of Deposits. New members were added and several refunds and transfers were approved.

• Approved bills and warrants totaling $2,348,865.57 (motion by Vicki Moro, passed)
• Approved minutes of the November 20, 2025 meeting (motion by Dennis Powers, passed)
• Accepted retirement applications for Dermot Hurley and Maryann Romani (motion by Ned Murphy, passed)
• Approved retirement figures for Wendy Ballard ($31,152.60/yr), Sandra Hernandez ($16,692.96/yr), Merry Towse ($28,064.16/yr) (motion by Vicki Moro, passed)
• Adopted Funding Schedule Alternative I for the 2025 PERAC valuation (motion by Ned Murphy, passed)
• Decided to continue sending monthly Notice of Deposits (board opinion)
• Accepted new members: Nicholas Balik; Michael Kelly, Jacob Sanborn; Aaron Burke, Jewel DeJesus, Matthew Ripley; Mariah Cassaro; Taryn Conway (motion by Vicki Moro, passed)
• Approved refunds and transfers for listed individuals (motion by Vicki Moro, passed)

City Council

The council will approve a $300,000 appropriation for skate park renovations and transfer $150,000 to the ambulance overtime account. It will accept a $6,300 state grant for recycling improvements at the Twiss Street Transfer Station and consider a change to the fire chief job description. The meeting includes second readings and final passages of eminent‑domain and layout orders for Scenic Road and Pheasant Drive, and a motion to review the Litter Ordinance.

• Appropriation of $300,000 from Free Cash to the Westfield Skate Park Project Account for renovations.
• Transfer of $150,000 from the Ambulance Designated Account to the Ambulance Overtime Account.
• Acceptance of a $6,300 grant from the Massachusetts DEP for recycling upgrades at Twiss Street Transfer Station.
• Second reading and final passage of eminent‑domain and layout orders for Scenic Road and Pheasant Drive.
• Motion to review the Litter Ordinance and refer it to Legislative and Ordinance and Law.

The council suspended its rules by voice vote to act on items received at the meeting. It then approved a $300,000 appropriation from Free Cash to fund renovations of the Westfield Skate Park. The council referred a $150,000 transfer for ambulance overtime to the Finance Committee and adopted a $6,300 state grant for recycling improvements at the Twiss Street Transfer Station.

• Suspended City Council rules (all in favor, voice vote)
• Approved $300,000 appropriation to Westfield Skate Park Project Account (unanimous Yes)
• Referred $150,000 transfer from Ambulance Designated Account to Ambulance Overtime Account to Finance Committee
• Adopted $6,300 grant from Mass DEP for recycling program improvements (unanimous Yes)

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission is meeting to discuss several traffic control requests and a towing ordinance. The body will also consider the appointment of Lieutenant John Parrish as Chairman.

• Towing Ordinance
• No Left Turn on Red at Pochassic Street onto North Elm Street
• MA DOT project #612600 at Southampton Rd/Servistar Industrial Way and Barnes Airport
• No Parking request for 11 Mallard Lane
• Stop sign at Old Cabot Road at Russellville Road

The commission approved a stop sign at Old Cabot Road at Russellville Road and a No Left Turn on Red sign at Pochassic Street heading west at North Elm. It accepted proposed ordinance changes adding section 17-186a and revising sections 17-187 and 17-188. Lieutenant John Parrish was appointed as the new Traffic Commission chairman.

• Approved minutes dated June 18, 2025 (Mejias Yes, Brown Abstained, Gadbois Yes, Clark Yes)
• Approved minutes dated September 17, 2025 (All in favor)
• Approved stop sign at Old Cabot Road at Russellville Road (All in favor)
• Approved No Left Turn on Red on Pochassic Street heading west at North Elm (All in favor)
• Accepted ordinance changes to sections 17-186a, 17-187, and 17-188 (All in favor)
• Postponed 11 Mallard Lane no‑parking request (All in favor)
• Appointed Lieutenant John Parrish as new Traffic Commission chairman (All in favor)

Off-Street Parking Commission

The Off-Street Parking Commission will review maintenance and financial reports from the Community Development Director. Members will discuss a potential 'Pay by App' metering project and may vote to rename the Reader 1 and Reader 3 parking lots.

• Discussion of 'Pay by App' metering project
• Possible vote to rename Reader 1 and Reader 3 parking lots
• Financial report from Community Development Director Peter Miller
• Approval of monthly bills

Westfield Redevelopment Authority

The Westfield Redevelopment Authority will meet to review committee reports and the Executive Director's report. The body will discuss and potentially vote on funding for a specific redevelopment project area.

• Possible vote on $20,000 for a Slum & Blight Analysis for Riverfront Redevelopment Project Area

Planning Board

The Planning Board announced it will not convene on December 16, 2025, as originally scheduled. No agenda items or decisions will be considered at this time.

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The Westfield Commission for Citizens with Disabilities will review the Open Space Recreation Plan presented by the Conservation Commission. Members will discuss the election of officers for 2026, including Chair, Vice‑Chair, and Secretary positions. The agenda also includes updates on fines and forfeits, traffic signals, and the transition plan year in review.

• Review and discuss Open Space Recreation Plan (Conservation Commission update)
• General discussion of officers for election in 2026 (Chair, Vice‑Chair, Secretary)
• Fine & Forfeits – Account update
• Traffic Signal update
• Transition Plan – Year in review

The commission voted 5‑0 to approve the November 18, 2025 meeting minutes. No other actions were voted on; the meeting was then adjourned by a 5‑0 vote. The chair announced his upcoming resignation, but no formal decision was taken.

• Approved November 18, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Westfield Cultural Council

The Westfield Cultural Council's meeting scheduled for December 16, 2025 was cancelled. Consequently, no agenda items were considered or decided at this time.

Historical Commission

The Westfield Historical Commission meeting will discuss several ongoing items. Topics include candidates for the National Register, plans for the town's 250th anniversary, historic house plaque installations, and a demolition report for 12 West Silver Street. The commission will also receive updates on the Wyben Schoolhouse and officer elections for 2026.

• National Registry Candidates
• 250th Celebration planning
• Historic House Plaques installation
• Demolition Report for 12 West Silver Street
• Wyben Schoolhouse update

The Westfield Historical Commission approved the November meeting minutes. The commission voted to table the Treasurer’s report until Commissioner Ingraham arrives. They authorized sending a formal response to the city’s request to demolish 12 West Silver St. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted November minutes (motion carried)
• Tabled Treasurer’s report until Commissioner Ingraham’s arrival (motion made)
• Approved sending formal response to city’s demolition request for 12 West Silver St. (motion made)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Westfield Airport Commission

The Commission will meet to potentially vote on on-call consultant services for engineering and planning. The body will also receive updates on leases with JimBob Aviation Inc. and Air Methods LLC.

• Possible vote on Airport On-Call Consultant Services for Engineering Contract
• Possible vote on Airport On-Call Consultant Services for Planning Contract
• Update on JimBob Aviation Inc. Lease regarding Fuel Farm
• Update on Lease Agreement with Air Methods LLC
• Proposal for services through Airport Monitoring Systems

The Westfield Airport Commission approved the November 13, 2025 regular session minutes with a unanimous 3‑0 vote. The commission then voted 3‑0 to adjourn the meeting at 6:54 PM. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved November 13, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Board of Health

The Board will first review and approve the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes and sign the Health Department’s monthly bills. It will then hear public participation followed by a Substance‑Use Outreach Coordinator report covering Narcan distribution and the yearly opioid‑settlement fund report. Finally, the Health Director will provide updates on the capital‑improvement plan, staffing of a new health inspector, shared‑services training, and other health initiatives.

• Review and approve minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting
• Sign monthly bills for the Health Department and Transfer Station
• Substance‑Use Outreach Coordinator report on Narcan distribution
• Opioid Settlement Fund yearly report
• Health Director update on Capital Improvement Plan and new health inspector

The Board of Health approved the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. It reviewed and signed the monthly bills for the Health Department and the Transfer Station. The shared services/training topic was tabled due to lack of new information, and the Health Director declined to conduct another round of tobacco inspections. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Signed monthly Health Department and Transfer Station bills
• Tabled shared services/training discussion (no new info)
• Refused additional tobacco inspections (Director Mulvenna)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Westfield Board of Assessors will approve the November monthly abatement and commitment reports. It will review a Chapter 61B application for 0 Montgomery Rd (reference 48R-20-1A). An executive session will be held to discuss possible votes on abatement and exemption applications. Routine items include approval of prior minutes, bills payable, and office updates.

• Approve November monthly abatement/commitment reports
• Consider Chapter 61B application for 0 Montgomery Rd (48R-20-1A)
• Executive session to discuss possible votes on abatement and exemption applications
• Approve minutes of the November 12, 2025 meeting
• Bills payable

The Board of Assessors approved the November 12, 2025 meeting minutes. It accepted the November monthly abatement/commitment reports and approved the Chapter 61B application for 0 Montgomery Rd (48R‑20‑1A). The Board then moved into an executive session.

• Accepted November 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Accepted November monthly abatement/commitment reports
• Approved Chapter 61B application for 0 Montgomery Rd (48R‑20‑1A)
• Entered executive session

Board of Public Works

The Westfield Board of Public Works will consider a petition to approve temporary repairs on a private way at Park River Drive and Park River Circle. The meeting also includes routine items such as approving the November 12, 2025 minutes, a public participation segment, a Department of Public Works monthly report, and setting the date for the next meeting.

• Reading and vote to approve November 12, 2025 minutes
• Public participation segment
• Discussion and possible vote on temporary repairs on a private way – Petition for Park River Drive & Park River Circle
• Department of Public Works monthly report
• Discuss next meeting date (January 6, 2026)

The board waived and approved the November 12, 2025 minutes with a 3‑0 vote. It then referred the proposed temporary repairs on the private way at Park River Drive to the City Council for consideration and potential funding, also directing that any significant potholes be patched in the meantime. No budget funds are currently available for the $235,000 repair estimate. The next meeting is scheduled for January 6, 2026.

• Waived and approved November 12, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Referred Park River Drive temporary repairs to City Council (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will discuss a draft 10-year action plan for Open Space and Recreation. The body will also review a letter of support regarding climate resilience regulations and receive management updates on drinking water and riverfront work.

• Open Space & Recreation Plan Draft 10 Year Action Plan
• MACC Letter of Support on Climate Resilience 1:0 Regulations
• Preemptive site visit for 77 Service Star Industrial Way
• Investigation of DPW work on Riverfront Area (DEP# 333-829)
• Review of draft Rules and Regulations to Ordinance #1773

City Council

The City Council will hold a roll call and vote on the Fiscal Year 2026 tax rate during its December 9, 2025 meeting.

• Vote on Fiscal Year 2026 Tax Rate

After three prior motions failed, the council voted to adopt a 1.68 shift for the Fiscal Year 2026 tax rate. The motion passed with eight votes in favor, three against, and two members absent. The council also approved the corresponding residential factor of 0.8599 with twelve votes in favor and one member absent.

• Adopt 1.68 tax shift (passed, 8-3, 2 absent)
• Adopt residential factor 0.8599 (passed, 12-0, 1 absent)
• Reject 1.74 tax shift (lost, 4-7, 2 absent)
• Reject 1.65 tax shift (lost, 6-6, 2 absent)
• Reject 1.61 tax shift (lost, 1-10, 2 absent)

Westfield Housing Authority

The Westfield Housing Authority will hold its regular meeting on Dec 9, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. at the Authority office. The agenda includes a public hearing on the Annual Plan, committee reports from the treasurer and accounting, and discussion of bill payments for Section 8 and other programs. The board will consider incoming communications such as a contract for financial assistance amendment #17 and updates on modernization projects. New business items include a change order for the Master Meter at JFK and certification of substantial completion for JFK fire alarms.

• Public Hearing — Annual Plan
• Bill Payments Made — 400-1, 689, MRVP and Section 8
• Incoming Communications — Contract for Financial Assistance Amendment #17
• New Business — Change Order‑Master Meter JFK
• Certificate of Substantial Completion‑JFK Fire Alarms

The Westfield Housing Authority unanimously approved the FY ’27 Annual Plan and a $800,753.45 increase to the Contract for Financial Assistance, bringing the total contract to $13,368,573.37. Additional approvals included a $27,602.23 change order for the Master Meter project and a $21,850.00 final payment for JFK fire alarm completion. The board also set the next meeting for January 14, 2026.

• Approved FY ’27 Annual Plan (unanimous 4‑0)
• Authorized $800,753.45 increase to Contract for Financial Assistance Amendment #17, total $13,368,573.37 (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved Change Order Master Meter $27,602.23 for ceiling packing and bollards (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Substantial Completion for JFK fire alarms and final payment $21,850.00 (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved payment of all bills for Revolving Account (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved payment of all bills for Project 400‑1 (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved payment of all bills for Project 689‑C (unanimous 4‑0)
• Set next board meeting for Jan 14, 2026 at 5:30 pm (unanimous 4‑0)

Water Commission

The Board of Water Commissioners will discuss and potentially vote on an Emergency Water Supply Agreement with the Springfield Water & Sewer Commission. The board will also review specific water abatement and senior discount requests.

• Emergency Water Supply Agreement with Springfield Water & Sewer Commission
• Senior discount discussion for 362 Granville Rd Unit 208
• Water abatement for 89 Beveridge Blvd

The Water Commission approved reinstating a senior discount for Carol Aiken at 362 Granville Rd Unit 208, retroactive with a refund check. It also approved a water‑abatement refund of $222.43 to the owners of 89 Beveridge Blvd. The commission voted to support the Emergency Water Supply Agreement being negotiated with Springfield Water & Sewer Commission. Minutes from the November 10th meeting were approved and the session was adjourned.

• Senior discount for Carol Aiken reinstated, retroactive, refund by check (3-0 approved)
• Water abatement for 89 Beveridge Blvd approved, $222.43 refund by check (3-0 approved)
• Support for Emergency Water Supply Agreement with Springfield approved (3-0 approved)
• November 10th, 2025 minutes approved as amended (3-0 approved)
• Meeting adjourned at 7:19 p.m. (3-0 approved)

Fire Commission

The Westfield Fire Commission will discuss establishing a new protocol for interviewing and hiring the next Fire Chief. The body will also review updates to the Fire Chief's job description and address a grievance hearing.

• Discussion on protocol for hiring next Fire Chief
• Review and approval of updated Fire Chief job description
• Executive session for grievance hearing with Local 1111
• Acceptance of November 2025 meeting minutes
• Report on committee meeting implementing MRI review recommendations

The Westfield Fire Commission unanimously accepted the November 10, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to have Personnel Director Anne Larkham forward the updated fire chief job description to the mayor for City Council review. Commissioners also approved empowering Commissioner Jeffrey Trant to draft a letter inviting department-wide written input on the next fire chief interview process. An executive session was entered for a grievance hearing, with a motion that the commission would not return to open session afterward.

• Accepted November 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved forwarding updated fire chief job description to mayor/City Council (3-0)
• Empowered Commissioner Trant to write invitation letter for staff input on fire chief interview (3-0)
• Moved into Executive Session for grievance 2025-03, not returning to regular session (3-0)

License Commission

The Commission is reviewing and approving 2026 liquor and non-liquor licenses for numerous restaurants, stores, and clubs. The body will also vote on the 2026 seasonal population increase.

• Review of 2026 Liquor, Common Victualler, Entertainment and Coin Operated Licenses
• Review of 2026 Non-Liquor, Common Victualler, Entertainment and Coin Operated Licenses
• Review of Non-Profit Common Victualler Licenses for Westfield Little League and Greater Westfield Babe Ruth
• 2026 Seasonal Population Increase vote
• One-day liquor license for Pilgrim Candle at 36 Union Avenue for a Westfield Food Pantry fundraiser

The commission voted unanimously to approve all 2026 liquor, common victualler, entertainment and coin‑operated license applications as submitted, with a contingency noted for the liquor renewals. It also unanimously approved all 2026 non‑liquor, common victualler, entertainment and coin‑operated licenses, and all 2026 non‑profit common victualler licenses. The November 10 minutes were tabled until the next meeting, and the next commission meeting was set for January 12, 2026.

• Approved all 2026 liquor, common victualler, entertainment and coin‑operated licenses (unanimous)
• Approved all 2026 non‑liquor, common victualler, entertainment and coin‑operated licenses (unanimous)
• Approved all 2026 non‑profit common victualler licenses (unanimous)
• Tabled November 10 minutes until next meeting (unanimous)
• Scheduled next License Commission meeting for Jan 12, 2026

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting scheduled for December 8, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered. The commission will meet next on January 12, 2026.

Council On Aging

The Westfield Council on Aging will approve minutes from November 17, 2025, and discuss kitchen staffing and a PVTA contract update. The board will also review policy drafts regarding inclement weather, fitness room shoes, BINGO games, and program refunds.

• Approval of November 17, 2025 minutes
• Kitchen staffing report
• PVTA Contract Update
• Policy drafts: Inclement Weather, Fitness Room Shoe, BINGO Games, Program Refund

The board unanimously approved the amended minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting. It also adopted four policies: an Inclement Weather Policy (unanimous), a Fitness Room Shoe Policy (6‑1 vote), a BINGO Games Policy (unanimous) and a Program Refund Policy (unanimous). The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approve amended November 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopt Inclement Weather Policy (unanimous)
• Adopt Fitness Room Shoe Policy (6-1)
• Adopt BINGO Games Policy (unanimous)
• Adopt Program Refund Policy (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Police Commission

The Westfield Police Commission will approve the November 10, 2025 minutes, hold open participation, and consider new business items. New business includes appointing Fr. Jonathan Reardon as department chaplain and Kenneth Dasso as traffic control attendant, interviewing police candidates, and hearing the Chief’s and Captains’ reports. An executive session will be held to discuss Officer Jason Perron’s grievance appeal. The meeting will also announce the next meeting date of January 12, 2026.

• Approval and release of minutes: November 10, 2025
• Appointment of Fr. Jonathan Reardon as Department Chaplain
• Appointment of Kenneth Dasso as Traffic Control Attendant
• Police candidate interviews: Elyssa Ruiz, Matthew Pelletier, Michael Ruffo, Justin Marge, Kimberly Velez
• Executive session on Officer Jason Perron grievance appeal

The commission approved the November 10, 2025 minutes and appointed Fr. Jonathan Reardon as department chaplain and Kenneth Dasso as a Traffic Control Attendant. It then appointed Michael Ruffo, Justin Marge, Elyssa Ruiz, and Matthew Pelletier as police officers, establishing their seniority. The meeting was briefly moved to executive session for a grievance appeal before adjournment.

• Approved and released minutes dated Nov 10, 2025 (3-0)
• Appointed Fr. Jonathan Reardon as department chaplain (3-0)
• Appointed Kenneth Dasso as Traffic Control Attendant (3-0)
• Appointed Michael Ruffo, Justin Marge, Elyssa Ruiz, Matthew Pelletier as police officers (seniority order) (3-0)
• Moved to executive session for Officer Jason Perron grievance appeal (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will vote on the fiscal year 2026 tax rate, affecting all property owners. Two public hearings will consider eminent‑domain orders for Scenic Road and Pheasant Drive. The council will also consider several grant resolutions, including an $800,000 grant for Westfield Skate Park renovations and a $27,391 grant for police license‑plate readers.

• Vote on fiscal year 2026 tax rate
• Public hearing for Order of Taking for Scenic Road (eminent domain)
• Public hearing for Order of Taking for Pheasant Drive (eminent domain)
• Resolution to approve $800,000 grant for Westfield Skate Park renovations
• Resolution to accept $27,391 grant for five Motorola license‑plate readers for the Police Department

The City Council scheduled a special meeting for Dec 9, 2025 to vote on the FY 2026 tax rate and requested up to $3 million of free cash to lower that rate. It moved first‑reading orders for Scenic Road and Pheasant Drive to second reading and adopted several grant resolutions, including an $800,000 Land & Water Conservation Fund grant for the Westfield Skate Park. The council also approved a 20‑year lease of additional airport property with JimBob Aviation.

• Requested up to $3 M free cash to reduce FY 2026 tax rate; all in favor (voice vote)
• Scheduled special meeting for Dec 9, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. to vote on FY 2026 tax rate; all in favor (voice vote)
• Moved Scenic Road and Pheasant Drive eminent‑domain orders to second reading; all in favor (voice vote)
• Adopted resolution to accept $800,000 LWDF grant for Westfield Skate Park improvements; adopted (unanimous Yes votes, one absent)
• Adopted resolution to accept $64,950.88 NHTSA grant for Westfield Police road‑safety needs; adopted (unanimous Yes votes, one absent)
• Adopted resolution to accept $63,662 Pioneer Valley Transit Authority grant for Council on Aging transportation; adopted (unanimous Yes votes, one absent)
• Adopted funding agreement with Westfield Redevelopment Authority for riverfront pre‑development study; adopted (unanimous Yes votes, one absent)
• Approved 20‑year lease of additional 2,306 sq ft airport property and fuel tank to JimBob Aviation; all in favor (voice vote)

City Council

The Westfield City Council will hold public hearings on December 4, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 59 Court Street. The hearings will discuss two orders of taking by right of eminent domain: one for Pheasant Drive and one for Scenic Road. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the items are for public consideration.

• Order of Taking for Pheasant Drive (eminent domain)
• Order of Taking for Scenic Road (eminent domain)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting for a single public hearing. The body will discuss the determination of local tax levy percentages for real and personal property for Fiscal Year 2026.

• Public hearing on Fiscal Year 2026 local tax levy percentages for real and personal property

City Council Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and vote on several grant acceptance resolutions. Items include an $800,000 state grant for skate park renovations, a $64,950.88 safety grant, a $63,662 transit grant for seniors, a $27,391 police equipment grant, and authorizing a mayoral agreement for a riverfront pre‑development study. The committee will also approve minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting.

• Resolution to accept $800,000 grant from the LWDF for renovations and improvements to Westfield Skate Park
• Resolution to accept $64,950.88 NHTSA grant for law‑enforcement safety equipment and traffic enforcement
• Resolution to accept $63,662 grant from Pioneer Valley Transit Authority for a transportation program for older adults
• Resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter a funding agreement with the Westfield Redevelopment Authority for a pre‑development study of the Riverfront Area
• Resolution to accept $27,391 Justice Assistance Grant for five Motorola license‑plate readers for the Westfield Police Department

The committee approved the minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting. It approved an $800,000 grant from the Commonwealth to fund renovations and improvements to the Westfield Skate Park. The committee also approved three additional grants—$64,950.88 for traffic‑safety equipment, $63,662 for a senior transportation program, and $27,391 for police license‑plate readers—took item #4 out of order, and then adjourned.

• Approved November 17, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Approved $800,000 grant for Westfield Skate Park renovations (2-0)
• Approved $64,950.88 grant for traffic safety equipment and enforcement (2-0)
• Approved $63,662 grant for Council on Aging senior transportation program (2-0)
• Approved $27,391 grant for police license‑plate readers (2-0)
• Took item #4 out of order (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:50 PM (2-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Westfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings and may decide on several applications, including an appeal of an enforcement order for chickens at 44 Glenwood Dr. and a special permit and site plan for a new building with a drive‑thru at 288 Elm St. Additional items include a request for an extension on a variance for a Country Mart expansion at 397 Little River Rd. and a review of revisions to an approved site plan for an accessory dwelling unit at 255 Southampton Rd./Emerald Ave. Routine agenda items such as call to order, acceptance of new applications, and approval of previous minutes will also be addressed.

• Appeal of enforcement order for chickens at 44 Glenwood Dr. (Res. A)
• Special permit and site plan for new building with drive‑thru at 288 Elm St. (CORE)
• Extension request for variance/special permit/site plan for Country Mart expansion at 397 Little River Rd.
• Review of revisions to approved site plan for detached accessory dwelling unit at 255 Southampton Rd./Emerald Ave.
• Acceptance of new applications and scheduling of hearings

City Council Finance Committee

The City Council Finance Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2025, has been cancelled. The meeting has been rescheduled to Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 5:30 PM.

• Meeting cancelled
• Rescheduled to Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 5:30 PM

Community Development

The Westfield Community Development Committee will hold a public hearing on Dec. 3, 2025 to consider a substantial amendment to the 2025 Annual Action Plan required by the Cranston‑Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act. The amendment adds a goal to retain five full‑time equivalent jobs and reallocates $10,000 from Microenterprise Assistance to a special economic‑development activity for Santiago’s Family Restaurant at 34 Franklin Street. Residents have a 30‑day comment period ending Dec. 5, 2025.

• Substantial amendment to the 2025 Annual Action Plan under HUD requirements
• Reallocation of $10,000 from Microenterprise Assistance to a special economic‑development activity for Santiago’s Family Restaurant, 34 Franklin Street
• Goal added to retain 5 full‑time equivalent jobs
• 30‑day public comment period; comments due by Dec. 5, 2025
• Public hearing on Dec. 3, 2025 at 5:30 pm, City Hall, Room 315

Municipal Light Board

The Westfield Municipal Light Board will meet on December 3, 2025 to hear public comments, review reports from the gas and electric department, and address old and new business. An executive session will be held to discuss an update on the 2030‑2050 non‑emitting electric generational decarbonization goal. No formal decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Public participation: customer compliments and concerns from Westfield and West Springfield residents
• Sales Team End‑of‑Year presentation by Andrew Short, Christina Mobrice, and Steve Kolek
• Energy Stabilization Funds quarterly report presented by Jamie Naughton
• Fleet inventory, readiness & replacement schedule presented by Greg Freeman
• Executive session: discussion of 2030‑2050 non‑emitting electric generational decarbonization goal update

The Municipal Light Board voted 7‑0 to accept the minutes from the November 5, 2025 session. Commissioners selected three customers—Joann Welch, Tina Elmer, and Peggy Croteau—to receive $250 energy credits in the Public Power Week drawing. The meeting also honored Commissioner Kevin M. Kelleher’s 22‑year service with citations from the mayor, a state senator, and a state representative. Additional reports covered sales performance, fleet inventory, and employee survey results.

• Accepted November 5, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Awarded $250 energy credit to Joann Welch (Entry #346)
• Awarded $250 energy credit to Tina Elmer (Entry #826)
• Awarded $250 energy credit to Peggy Croteau (Entry #659)

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee will vote on a resolution to approve a lease amendment between the Westfield Airport Commission and JimBob Aviation, Inc. for a twenty‑year term. It will also consider revisions to City Ordinance Chapter 18 (Department of Public Works) and Section 9 (city departments, boards, and officers). Additionally, a motion will be discussed to update ordinances addressing electric bikes, scooters, and skateboards on city streets.

• Resolution to approve a 20‑year lease amendment between Westfield Airport Commission and JimBob Aviation, Inc.
• Revisions to City Ordinance Chapter 18 – Department of Public Works
• Revisions to City Ordinance Section 9 – city departments, boards, and officers
• Motion to discuss updating ordinances for electric/motorized bikes, scooters, and skateboards

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee approved the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. It accepted a resolution to approve a 20‑year lease amendment with JimBob Aviation, Inc. for a fuel farm at Westfield Airport. The committee removed proposed revisions to Chapter 18 of the City Ordinance without prejudice and kept a discussion on electric bike, scooter, and skateboard ordinances in committee.

• Approved November 18, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Accepted lease amendment with JimBob Aviation for airport fuel farm (3-0)
• Removed revisions to City Ordinance Chapter 18 – Public Works (3-0)
• Retained discussion on e‑bike, e‑scooter, and e‑skateboard ordinances in committee (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:11 PM (3-0)

Board of Public Works

The regularly scheduled Westfield Board of Public Works meeting on December 2, 2025 was cancelled because of weather. No new meeting date has been set yet. The department will announce a rescheduled date when possible.

Water Commission

The Water Commission’s regularly scheduled meeting for December 2, 2025 at 5:30 pm in Room 201 was cancelled. The meeting has been rescheduled for December 1, 2025 at 5:45 pm in Room 315A. The notice was submitted by Carey Marshall of the City’s Department of Public Works, Water Division.

City Council Finance Committee

The City Council Finance Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025, has been cancelled. It will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM.

Water Commission

The Westfield Water Commission's regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 5:45 p.m. in Room 315A was cancelled. No agenda items were considered. The meeting will be rescheduled at a later date. No decisions or discussions occurred at this time.

School Committee Subcommittee

The Human Resources & Policy Subcommittee of the Westfield School Committee will meet on Dec 1, 2025 at City Hall, 59 Court Street. The agenda includes a public participation item that excludes personnel matters and a review of the School Committee policy file on IKF graduation requirements.

• Public participation discussion (excluding personnel matters)
• Review of School Committee policy file: IKF Graduation Requirements

The Westfield School Committee approved a memorial plaque for Christopher Chambers and adopted several policy readings. It also approved home‑school applications, a new scholarship account, and a memorandum of agreement with the AFSCME clerical union. Multiple budget transfers were authorized, and a $250,000 Fair Share earmark for technology purchases and a special‑education audit was accepted.

• Accepted memorial plaque for Christopher Chambers; motion unanimous
• Approved home school applications #162‑172 for 2025‑2026; unanimous
• Approved first reading of policy File: IKF Graduation Requirement; unanimous
• Approved final reading of policy File: IKFE Competency Determination; unanimous
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with AFSCME Council 93, Local 346; unanimous
• Created Michael Gonzalez Scholarship account; unanimous
• Accepted $250,000 Fair Share earmark for technology and special‑education audit; unanimous
• Approved $66,200 budget transfer from District Voc Tuition Legal to Contract Services; unanimous

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review public comments on the draft Rules and Regulations to Ordinance #1773 for wetlands protection. It will also receive updates on enforcement orders for 109 & 121 Medeiros Way and 300 Union St., and consider several requests for certificates of compliance with DEP files. Additional agenda items include discussion of the Honey Pot Road Warren property, survey results for the Open Space & Recreation Plan, and departmental updates on drinking water planning and a site visit to 77 Service Star Industrial Way.

• Draft Rules and Regulations to Ordinance #1773 – public may review and comment (link provided)
• Enforcement order updates for 109 & 121 Medeiros Way (Sovereign Builders) and 300 Union St.
• Requests for certificates of compliance for DEP files: Little River Levee Maintenance, Water Recovery Facility, 234 Union St., Liberty Manor East, 505 Hillside Road
• General discussion of Honey Pot Road Warren property and Open Space & Recreation Plan survey results
• Conservation Department update: preemptive site visit for future NOI at 77 Service Star Industrial Way

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct interviews for the conservation agent position. The body may vote to appoint a candidate following these interviews.

• Interviews of Nicholas Balik and Sabrina Pooler
• Possible vote on appointment of conservation agent

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss several ongoing projects and administrative updates. The body is reviewing a demolition report for a specific property and planning for the city's 250th celebration.

• Demolition report for 12 West Silver Street
• National Registry update
• 250th Celebration planning
• Historic House Plaques and Preservation Award plaque
• Discussion of Commission Officers for January elections

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss signage for pickleball courts and address remaining concerns at Municipal Park. The body will also receive a report on a November 12 Open Space meeting.

• Discussion on pickleball court signage with Ree Migliozzi
• Follow-up discussion on Municipal Park concerns
• Report on November 12 Open Space meeting

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting. Several park‑related proposals were discussed, including signage, lighting, security cameras, tree planting, and trail maintenance, but no actions were taken on those items. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous approval)

Retirement Board

The Westfield Retirement Board will hold a conference call to review monthly investment performance, approve bills payable and warrants, and consider a third appropriation bill for fiscal year 2026.

• Monthly investment performance review
• Approval of bills payable and warrants
• FY 26 Appropriation Bill 3 of 3
• Review of disability applications
• New member approvals

The Retirement Board approved several financial items, including the FY26 appropriation bill. It also accepted retirement applications and figures for specific members, approved the previous meeting minutes, and added new members to the system. Refunds and transfers were authorized, and a posting for the PERAC website was accepted.

• Approved bills and warrants totaling $2,348,865.57 (Vote: 5-0)
• Approved minutes of the October 20, 2025 meeting (Vote: 4-0, 1 absent)
• Accepted retirement application for Merry Towse (Vote: 5-0)
• Approved retirement figures for Chee Hui, Raymond Tuttle, and Maureen Riordan (Vote: 5-0)
• Approved submission of FY26 final appropriation bill (Vote: 5-0)
• Accepted posting for the PERAC website (Vote: 5-0)
• Accepted new members in Housing, Public Works, and Schools (Vote: 5-0)
• Granted listed refunds and transfers (Vote: 5-0)

City Council

The City Council will review several grant acceptances for public safety, seniors, and recreation. The body is also considering budget transfers for public works and fire equipment, as well as a zoning petition regarding family day care.

• Resolution for $800,000 LWDF grant for Westfield Skate Park renovations
• Grant of $64,950.88 for law enforcement and traffic safety equipment
• Grant of $27,391.00 for five Motorola Solutions License Plate Readers
• Transfer of $46,250.00 for a new Fire Department ambulance vehicle
• Zoning Petition to deregulate family day care uses (Second Reading)

The City Council voted to approve four fund transfers for the Public Works, Fire Department, and Public Safety projects. It also accepted a gift to the Animal Control department and confirmed the reappointment of Personnel Director Anne M. Larkham. The License Commission’s request to convert a seasonal alcohol license to an annual license was kept in committee.

• Approved $35,375.50 transfer for Stormwater prior‑year bill (13‑yes)
• Approved $26,542.67 transfer to fulfill AFSCME contract obligations (13‑yes)
• Approved $46,250.00 transfer for new fire ambulance vehicle (13‑yes)
• Approved $68,000.00 transfer for Southwick Communications Tower project (13‑yes)
• Accepted gift donation to Westfield Animal Control (voice vote, all in favor)
• Confirmed reappointment of Personnel Director Anne M. Larkham (11‑yes, 2‑no)
• License Commission request to convert seasonal to annual alcohol license remained in committee

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee will vote on a resolution to accept a gift donation from the Estate of Joan Kennedy for the city’s Animal Shelter. The amount of the donation is not disclosed in the agenda. The committee will also approve the minutes from the October 30, 2025 meeting.

• Resolution to accept gift donation (amount undisclosed) from Estate of Joan Kennedy for the Animal Shelter
• Approval of minutes from October 30, 2025

The committee approved the minutes from the October 30, 2025 meeting by a 3-0 vote. It then voted 3-0 to accept a resolution for a gift donation, of an undisclosed amount, from the Estate of Joan Kennedy to the Animal Shelter. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous 3-0 vote.

• Approved October 30, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Accepted donation resolution from Estate of Joan Kennedy to Animal Shelter (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Planning Board

The Westfield Planning Board will hold public hearings and may decide on several development applications, including a special permit to create two residential lots from 375 Holyoke Rd., a site‑plan and stormwater permit for a warehouse at 0 Cycle St., and a special permit for an electronic sign at 1026 Southampton Rd. The agenda also includes review of the previous meeting minutes, subdivision plans that do not require approval, and other business items such as a self‑storage compliance review and an ADU conversion request. Additional items cover a covenant release request for the Nathaniel Hill Subdivision and the development of street acceptance criteria.

• Special Permit for Patrick Smith to create 2 building lots from 375 Holyoke Rd. (Res. A)
• Site Plan and Stormwater Permit for Cycle Street Redevelopment LLC warehouse at 0 Cycle St. (Industrial A)
• Special Permit for Sovereign Builders Inc. for an electronic sign at 1026 Southampton Rd. (Business B & Water Res.)
• Review of subdivision plans not requiring approval: 437 & 587 E Main St., Cleveland Ave., Cycle St., 19 Lois St.
• Other business: compliance review of 109 Medeiros Way self‑storage; ADU conversion at 409 Pochassic Rd.; covenant release for Nathaniel Hill Subdivision

The Board approved a Special Permit for lot‑size averaging at 375 Holyoke Road and a Site Plan/Stormwater Permit for a 40,000‑sq‑ft industrial warehouse at 0 Cycle Street. It also approved a special sign permit at 1026 Southampton Road with conditions that prohibit an electronic display. Additional approvals included several subdivision‑control‑law plans, a site‑plan waiver for an ADU at 409 Pochassic Road, and a covenant release for the Nathaniel Hill Subdivision.

• Approved Special Permit for lot‑size averaging at 375 Holyoke Rd (unanimous yes)
• Approved Site Plan and Stormwater Permit for 40,000‑sq‑ft warehouse at 0 Cycle St (unanimous yes)
• Approved Special Permit for off‑site sign at 1026 Southampton Rd, denying intermittent electronic display (unanimous yes)
• Approved Special Permit for access at 437 & 587 East Main St (all in favor)
• Approved ANR lot creation for Cleveland Ave & Cycle St redevelopment (all in favor)
• Approved ANR lot creation for 19 Lois St land exchange (all in favor)
• Approved site‑plan waiver for ADU conversion at 409 Pochassic Rd (all in favor)
• Approved covenant release for Nathaniel Hill Subdivision in exchange for $1,524,839 bond (all in favor)

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The Westfield Commission for Citizens with Disabilities will conduct its regular meeting, approving the October 21 minutes and providing a fine and forfeits account update. New business includes reviewing the Open Space Recreation Plan update and hearing guest speakers Ben Breger and Eric Weis on the Westfield Safe Streets for All initiative. Old business covers a traffic signal update and a review of a medium‑priority transition plan. The meeting will conclude with announcements and scheduling the next session.

• Review Open Space Recreation Plan update (Conservation Commission)
• Guest speakers Ben Breger and Eric Weis for Westfield Safe Streets for All
• Traffic Signal Update
• Transition Plan – Review of Medium Priority (C)
• Fine & Forfeits – Account Update

The commission approved the October 21, 2025 meeting minutes with a 5‑0 vote. It decided to postpone any action on the costly handicap traffic signals until the consultant’s findings are received. The meeting was then adjourned with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. No other motions were decided.

• Approved October 21, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Decided to wait on handicap traffic signal project pending consultant report
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Westfield Conservation Commission will meet remotely on November 18, 2025. After a call to order and roll call, the committee will enter an executive session under M.G.L. c.30A Section 21(a)(8) to consider and interview applicants for employment or appointment. The meeting will adjourn after the executive session.

• Call meeting to order
• Roll call
• Executive session to consider and interview employment or appointment applicants (M.G.L. c.30A Sec.21(a)(8))
• Adjourn

Westfield Cultural Council

The Westfield Cultural Council will review the meeting minutes, hear the treasurer’s financial report, receive a report on the Tree Jubilee, and vote on grant applications. These items constitute the council’s business for the November 18 meeting.

• Review and approve meeting minutes
• Treasurer’s financial report
• Tree Jubilee report
• Vote on grant allocations

City Council License Committee

The License Committee will consider a request from the Westfield License Commission to ask the City Council to submit a home‑rule petition to the state legislature to convert a seasonal liquor license into an annual license. The petition would apply to Shiva Laxmi, Inc., doing business as Pleasant Street Market, located at 54 Pleasant Street, with Jaimin Patel as president and treasurer. The committee will decide whether to forward the request to the City Council before adjourning.

• Request to convert seasonal liquor license to annual license for Shiva Laxmi, Inc. (Pleasant Street Market) at 54 Pleasant Street

School Committee Subcommittee

The Facilities/Capital Planning Subcommittee of the Westfield School Committee will meet on November 17, 2025 at 5:30 pm in City Hall, room 201. The agenda includes public participation, a proposal to name the Westfield High School swimming pool, discussion of restroom facility maintenance at Westfield Technical Academy, and a submission to the Massachusetts School Building Authority for the academy.

• Proposal to name Westfield High School swimming pool
• Discussion of restroom facility maintenance at Westfield Technical Academy
• Review of Massachusetts School Building Authority submission for Westfield Technical Academy
• Public participation item (excluding personnel)

School Committee Subcommittee

The Human Resources & Policy Subcommittee of the Westfield School Committee will meet on November 17, 2025 at City Hall, 59 Court Street. The agenda includes a public participation item that excludes personnel matters, and a review of two policy files: the IKFE Competency Determination and the IKF Graduation Requirements.

• Public participation (excluding personnel)
• Review of IKFE Competency Determination file
• Review of IKF Graduation Requirements file

The committee approved the Settlement Agreement with the Westfield Custodian Association (2025‑2028) with all members in favor. It also approved four Westfield High School field trips to Connecticut and Peru, each passing unanimously. First‑reading of the IKFE Competency Determination policy was approved, while the IKF Graduation Requirements policy was tabled. Second‑reading approvals were given for the JF School Admissions and JLCA Physical Examinations policies, and gifts/donations to the schools were accepted.

• Approved Settlement Agreement with Westfield Custodian Association (2025‑2028) – all in favor
• Approved Westfield High School basketball trip to Hartford High School, CT (Dec 7, 2025) – all in favor
• Approved Westfield High School wrestling trips to Simsbury High School, CT (Dec 7, 2025) and Southington High School, CT (Jan 31, 2026) – all in favor
• Approved Westfield High School Peru trip (Apr 17‑25, 2027) – all in favor
• Approved first reading (title only) of policy File: IKFE Competency Determination – all in favor
• Tabled policy File: IKF Graduation Requirements – all in favor
• Approved second/final reading (title only) of policy File: JF School Admissions – all in favor
• Approved second/final reading (title only) of policy File: JLCA Physical Examinations and Screenings – all in favor

Council On Aging

The Council on Aging board will approve the October 20, 2025 meeting minutes and hear public input. It will discuss a proposal to use Van Heynigen money to lower the cost of congregate dining meals for seniors affected by reduced SNAP benefits. The board will receive reports on kitchen staffing, conference activities, building maintenance, and updates on several grants and contracts. It will also review draft policies on inclement weather, fitness‑room shoes, bingo games, and program refunds.

• Consider use of Van Heynigen funds to reduce senior congregate dining costs
• Review status of Title III grant
• Review PVTA Transportation Grant
• Discuss draft Inclement Weather Policy
• Discuss draft Fitness Room Shoe Policy

The board approved the October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (6‑0‑1). It authorized the Van Heynigen Gift Fund to cut congregate dining fees by 50% for any senior receiving state benefits (7‑0) and to waive fees up to 100% in special cases (7‑0). The meeting was then adjourned (7‑0).

• Approved October 20, 2025 minutes (vote 6-0-1)
• Authorized 50% fee reduction for congregate dining for state‑benefit recipients (vote 7-0)
• Authorized up to 100% fee waiver for congregate dining in special circumstances (vote 7-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (vote 7-0)

City Council Finance Committee

The Westfield City Council Finance Committee will approve the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting and consider four fund transfers. These include a $35,375.50 transfer within the Public Works Department, $26,542.67 transfers to salary and stipend accounts for a contract with AFSCME Local 1676, a $46,250.00 transfer for a new ambulance vehicle, and a $68,000.00 transfer to cover costs of the Southwick Communications Tower project.

• $35,375.50 transfer from Public Works Stormwater Division FY26 Service Account to Public Works Land and Natural Resources Division FY25 Supplies Account.
• $26,542.67 transfers from various Reserve for Future Salary Accounts within Public Works to Full Time Salary, Longevity, and Stipend Accounts for contract obligations with AFSCME Local 1676 (July 1 2026 – June 30 2028).
• $46,250.00 transfer from Fire Department Ambulance Undesignated Account to FY26 Ambulance Equipment Vehicle Account for purchase of a replacement vehicle for a 2012 Ford Explorer.
• $68,000.00 transfer from Public Safety Communications Center Full Time Salary Account to Construction Account to cover excess costs of the Southwick Communications Tower project.

The Finance Committee approved the meeting minutes from October 14, 2025 and a series of fund transfers, including $35,375.50 for a stormwater invoice, $26,542.67 for salary obligations, $46,250 for a new fire ambulance vehicle, and $68,000 for the Southwick communications tower project. All motions passed unanimously (3-0). The meeting was adjourned at 5:18 PM.

• Approved October 14, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved $35,375.50 transfer for stormwater invoice (3-0)
• Approved $26,542.67 salary account transfers (3-0)
• Approved $46,250 purchase of new fire ambulance vehicle (3-0)
• Approved $68,000 transfer for Southwick communications tower project (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:18 PM (3-0)

Westfield Airport Commission

The Westfield Airport Commission will meet to approve outstanding meeting minutes and vote on lease renewals or amendments for two aviation companies. The agenda also includes updates on engineering, operations, noise programs, and the airport budget.

• Vote on lease renewal for Air Methods
• Vote on lease renewal for JimBob Aviation
• Airport Noise Program grant update
• Airport Marketing Program review
• Budget Review

The commission approved the October 9, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a draft five‑year lease for Air Methods, including a rent‑abatement provision of up to $35,000. It also approved a lease amendment for JimBob Aviation, subject to City Council and mayoral approval. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved October 9, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved draft Air Methods lease with up to $35,000 rent abatement (3-0)
• Approved JimBob Aviation lease amendment, pending City Council and mayoral approval (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board will approve the October monthly abatement and commitment reports. It will consider releasing a Chapter 61A lien for the rear of 0 Little River Street (parcel 29R-8). The Board will discuss a proposed ordinance change to the City Assessor title and provide updates on FY26 certification and classification hearings. An executive session will be held to discuss abatement and exemption applications.

• Approve October monthly abatement/commitment reports
• Release Chapter 61A lien for 0 Little River St (rear) 29R-8
• Ordinance change discussion: City Assessor title
• FY26 certification updates
• FY26 classification hearing updates

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will approve the October 7, 2025 minutes and review bills payable. The agenda includes a possible vote on Cultural District Signs and a stormwater review for 1111 Southampton Road.

• Vote to approve October 7, 2025 minutes
• Discuss and possible vote on Cultural District Signs
• 1111 Southampton Road stormwater review
• Review bills payable since last meeting
• Discuss next meeting date

The board voted 3‑0 to approve the installation of cultural district signage as presented by the Community Development Director. The board also voted 3‑0 to approve a stormwater permit for the redevelopment project at 1111 Southampton Road, with required modifications and an enhanced operations‑and‑maintenance plan. No other substantive actions were taken; the meeting was adjourned at 6:15 PM.

• Approved cultural district signage (3‑0)
• Approved stormwater permit for 1111 Southampton Road (3‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss litigation strategy in executive session and review enforcement orders for three properties. The body will also consider certificates of compliance for two projects and provide updates on the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Executive session regarding litigation strategy for OADR Docket No. WET-2024-012
• Enforcement order reviews for 74 Russellville Road, 109 & 121 Medeiros Way, and 300 Union St.
• Certificate of Compliance requests for 229 Union Street (gravel driveway/stump removal) and 505 Hillside Road (single-family home construction)
• Review of draft Rules and Regulations to Ordinance #1773
• Updates on the Open Space and Recreation Plan survey

Board of Health

The Westfield Board of Health meeting scheduled for Wednesday, November 12, 2025, has been cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting will occur on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

Water Commission

The Westfield Water Commission will convene to discuss a senior discount for a specific unit, a refund request for a property on 3 Morgan Ave, and grinder pump maintenance responsibilities. The agenda also includes a water abatement request and a continued discussion regarding Town of Southwick customers.

• Senior Discount Discussion for 362 Granville Rd Unit 208
• Discussion and Vote on 3 Morgan Ave Unit A Refund Request
• Discussion and Vote on Grinder Pump Maintenance Responsibilities Letter
• Water Abatement for 4 West School St
• Continued Discussion on Town of Southwick customers

The Water Commission approved a $4,094.35 refund for the owner of 3 Morgan Ave Unit A and a $1,097.20 abatement refund for 4 West School St. It also approved the Grinder Pump Maintenance Responsibilities Resolution and adopted the October 7, 2025 minutes as amended. The meeting was adjourned at 7:11 p.m.

• Approved $4,094.35 refund to 3 Morgan Ave Unit A (3-0)
• Approved $1,097.20 abatement refund to 4 West School St (3-0)
• Approved Grinder Pump Maintenance Responsibilities Resolution (3-0)
• Approved October 7, 2025 minutes as amended (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:11 p.m. (3-0)

Fire Commission

The commission will vote to accept the minutes from the 20 October 2025 meeting. Commissioners will discuss how to implement recommendations from the recent MRI review. They will also talk about filling the Fire Chief position after Chief Egloff retires and consider a vote to update the Fire Chief’s job description.

• Vote to accept minutes from the 20 October 2025 meeting
• Discussion of implementing recommendations from the MRI review
• Discussion on filling the Fire Chief position after Chief Egloff retires
• Potential vote on updating the Westfield Fire Chief job description

The commission voted 3‑0 to accept the Westfield Fire Department minutes from October 20, 2025. They also voted 3‑0 to table the proposed update to the fire chief job description until the next meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Accepted October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Tabled fire chief job description update (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

License Commission

The License Commission will conduct an informational hearing regarding five police incident reports for Gabes at 252 Elm Street. The body will also review auto dealership license renewals and a one-day liquor license request.

• Informational hearing for Gabes (252 Elm Street) regarding Police Incident Reports #25-31256, #25-32290, #25-33162, #25-35523, and #25-36172
• One-day liquor license request for Westfield State University for Club Night on November 14, 2025
• Review and approval of Class I, II, and III Auto Dealership License Renewals
• Review of auto dealership not renewing for 2026: DNKB, LLC (Indian Motorcycle of Springfield)

The License Commission unanimously approved the minutes from September 8 and October 20, 2025. It filed five police incident reports (numbers 25‑31256, 25‑32290, 25‑33162, 25‑35523, 25‑36172). The commission also unanimously approved a special one‑day liquor license for Westfield State University’s Club Night on November 14, 2025. All Class I, II, and III auto‑dealer license renewals were approved, with KBR Enterprises’ renewal approved with a contingency.

• Approved September 8 and October 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Filed police incident reports #25-31256, #25-32290, #25-33162, #25-35523, #25-36172 (unanimous)
• Approved special one‑day liquor license for Westfield State University Club Night (unanimous)
• Approved all Class I, II, III auto‑dealer license renewals as submitted (unanimous)
• Approved KBR Enterprises renewal with contingency (unanimous)

Westfield Housing Authority

The Westfield Housing Authority will discuss a management agreement and proposed amendments to 760 CMR received from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. Committee reports will present the quarterly operating statements as of September 30, 2025 and recent bill payments for several housing programs. The board will also address old business items such as modernization updates and holiday hours, and new business items including meeting scheduling, personnel matters, the chairperson position, a language‑access plan, and a low‑bid CPA roof contract.

• Review of Management Agreement and amendments to 760 CMR (incoming communications)
• Quarterly Operating Statements for 9‑30‑25 presented by Treasurer and Accounting Committee
• Bill payments discussion for programs 400‑1, 689, MRVP, and Section 8
• Old Business: modernization updates and holiday hours
• New Business: meeting time/date, personnel, chairperson position, language‑access plan, low‑bid CPA roof

The board approved routine financial items, including payment of several project bills and acceptance of reports. It appointed Commissioner Mulligan as Chairperson and Commissioner Cisek as Vice Chairperson. The board also approved a roof contract, a language‑access analysis, holiday hours, and set the next meeting date.

• Approved minutes of Oct 7, 2025 special meeting (unanimous 3‑0)
• Approved payment of bills for Revolving Account (unanimous 3‑0)
• Appointed Commissioner Mulligan as Chairperson (unanimous 3‑0)
• Appointed Commissioner Cisek as Vice Chairperson (unanimous 3‑0)
• Awarded low‑bid roof contract $41,650 to K & G General Services (unanimous 3‑0)
• Approved Language Access Four Factor Analysis (unanimous 3‑0)
• Set next board meeting for Dec 9, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. (unanimous 3‑0)
• Approved holiday hours schedule for Nov 28 and Dec 23‑24, 2025 (unanimous 3‑0)

Police Commission

The Westfield Police Commission will consider appointing Fr. Jonathan Reardon from St. Mary’s Parish as the department chaplain. Commissioners will also hear the Chief’s Report on department matters. Routine items include approval of the October 14, 2025 meeting minutes and open public participation.

• Appointment of Fr. Jonathan Reardon from St. Mary’s Parish as department chaplain
• Chief’s Report on police department activities
• Approval and release of minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting

The commission approved and released the October 14, 2025 minutes with unanimous support. The proposed appointment of Father Jonathan Reardon as department chaplain was postponed until a staff survey can be completed. The next commission meeting was set for December 8, 2025 at 5:30 pm, and the meeting was adjourned at 6:10 pm.

• Approved October 14, 2025 minutes (all three commissioners voted Yes)
• Postponed department chaplain appointment pending staff survey
• Scheduled next meeting for December 8, 2025 at 5:30 pm
• Adjourned meeting at 6:10 pm

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting scheduled for November 10, 2025, has been cancelled. It is rescheduled for November 24, 2025.

City Council

The Westfield City Council meeting includes several financial transfers, a grant acceptance, and a resolution to partner on a senior food program. The council will consider a second reading and final passage of an ordinance amendment that would double the compensation rate for alternates of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board. Additional items include a gas storage license application and eminent domain petitions for Scenic Road and Pheasant Drive.

• Accept $3,098 grant from Highland Valley Elder Services for Master Trainer certification
• Transfer $46,250 from Fire Department Ambulance Undesignated Account to purchase a new ambulance vehicle
• Transfer $68,000 to cover costs for the Southwick Communications Tower project
• Application for a gas storage license for 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive by Jimbob Aviation Inc.
• Second reading and final passage of ordinance amendment to double compensation for alternates of Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board

The council accepted a $3,098 grant for the Council on Aging and adopted a resolution to receive a donated American flag for Public Works. It approved a gas storage license for 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive, corrected a zoning map error on Ridgeway Avenue, and denied a mistaken rezoning of 265 Union Street. Public hearings on eminent‑domain for Scenic Road and Pheasant Drive were scheduled for December 4, 2025, and a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute a Brown Bag Food for Older Adults program was adopted.

• Accepted $3,098 grant for Council on Aging (all Yes)
• Adopted resolution accepting donated 5'×8' American Flag for Public Works (voice vote all in favor)
• Approved gas storage license for 20,000 gallons Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive (7 Yes, 4 No)
• Approved zoning correction for Ridgeway Ave to Residence C (voice vote all in favor)
• Denied amendment of 265 Union Street to Industrial A (1 Yes, 10 No/Abstain)
• Scheduled public hearing Dec 4 2025 for Scenic Road eminent‑domain order (voice vote all in favor)
• Scheduled public hearing Dec 4 2025 for Pheasant Drive eminent‑domain order (voice vote all in favor)
• Adopted resolution authorizing mayor to execute Brown Bag Food for Older Adults program (voice vote all in favor)

Municipal Light Board

The Westfield Municipal Light Board will hold its regular meeting on November 5, 2025, with public comments and routine reports on rates, energy supply, and finances. In a closed executive session, the board will review the 2026‑2035 strategic plan and budget booklet and the 2030‑2050 non‑emitting electric generation decarbonization goal. No other decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Public participation (max 30 minutes, 3 minutes per person)
• Quarterly Gas & Electric Rate Comparison report
• Monthly Financial Reports presentation
• Executive session: Strategic Plan and Budget Booklet 2026‑2035
• Executive session: 2030‑2050 Non‑Emitting Electric Generational Decarbonization Goal

The Municipal Light Board accepted the minutes of the October 1, 2025 regular session with a 6‑0 vote. The Board also decided to sunset the B‑Green Electronic Funds Transfer program for commercial customers, ending it with the December 2025 billing cycle. No other motions were adopted during the meeting.

• Accepted October 1, 2025 minutes (6-0 vote)
• Sunset B‑Green EFT program for commercial customers, ending Dec 2025 billing cycle (no vote recorded)

Conservation Commission

The Westfield Conservation Commission will convene a preliminary screening committee meeting to consider applicants for employment or appointment. The session will be held in executive session under state law to protect the integrity of the hiring process.

• Executive session to screen applicants for employment or appointment
• Meeting held pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, Section 21(a)(8)
• Screening committee to interview applicants in closed session

Emergency Planning Committee

The Westfield Local Emergency Planning Committee will meet to review past events, discuss upcoming city activities, and receive reports from various city departments. The meeting will also cover grant status for swift water suits and unfinished business regarding standardized event formats.

• Review of grant status for swift water suits
• Discussion of standardized format for city events
• Reports from 15 departments and businesses
• Upcoming events: Tree lighting and New Year's
• Past events: Active shooter drill and Pumpkin Fest

Board of Public Works

The regularly scheduled Board of Public Works Commission meeting for November 4, 2025, has been cancelled due to the election.

Water Commission

The Water Commission meeting scheduled for November 4, 2025, has been cancelled. It is rescheduled for November 10, 2025, at 5:45pm in Room 315A.

Conservation Commission

The Screening Committee of the Westfield Conservation Commission will meet to consider or interview applicants for employment or appointment. The entire meeting is scheduled as an executive session.

• Executive session to interview applicants for employment or appointment

School Committee Subcommittee

The Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment Subcommittee will meet to review proposed School Committee policies regarding graduation requirements and competency determination. The meeting is scheduled for November 3, 2025, at 5:00 pm in the Mayor's Conference room at City Hall.

• Review of IKF Graduation Requirements policy
• Review of IKFE Competency Determination (MASC sample) policy
• Public participation (excluding personnel) allowed

The Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment Subcommittee reviewed the MASC sample policy file on IKFE competency determination and the IKF graduation requirements policy. No votes were taken on the policies; only discussion and recommended changes were noted. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Adjourned meeting (all in favor, motion passed)

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee will consider two motions by Councilor Fanion to begin eminent domain proceedings for Scenic Road and for Pheasant Drive. It will also consider a resolution that would let the mayor sign an agreement with the Council on Aging and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts for the "Brown Bag: Food for Older Adults" program. Finally, the committee will discuss possible updates to traffic ordinances concerning electric and motorized bikes, scooters, and skateboards.

• Motion to start eminent domain process for Scenic Road
• Motion to start eminent domain process for Pheasant Drive
• Resolution authorizing the mayor to enter an agreement with the Council on Aging and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts for the "Brown Bag: Food for Older Adults" program
• Discussion of updating traffic ordinances for electric/motorized bikes, scooters, and skateboards

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee approved the September 17, 2025 minutes. It voted unanimously to send positive recommendations to the full council to start eminent domain proceedings for Scenic Road and for Pheasant Drive. The committee also approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to partner with the Council on Aging and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts for the “Brown Bag: Food for Older Adults” program and kept a discussion on electric‑bike and scooter ordinances in committee.

• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Recommended eminent domain process for Scenic Road be sent to full council (3-0)
• Recommended eminent domain process for Pheasant Drive be sent to full council (3-0)
• Approved resolution authorizing mayor to enter agreement with Council on Aging and Food Bank of Western MA for Brown Bag program (3-0)
• Voted to keep discussion on electric/motorized bike, scooter, skateboard ordinances in committee (3-0)

Hampden Charter School of Science

The Hampden Charter School of Science board will review and vote on its FY25 financial audit report. The meeting also includes a CEO report, a review of 2024‑25 MCAS data and the School Accountability Report Card, and an update to the financial disclosure form. A public comment period is provided before adjournment.

• Presentation and vote on FY25 financial audit report
• CEO report
• Review of 2024‑25 MCAS data and School Accountability Report Card
• Update of financial disclosure form
• Public comment period

City Council Zoning, Planning and Development Committee

The Zoning, Planning and Development Committee will review three petitions submitted by the Planning Board. The first petition seeks to amend and correct the zoning map at Ridgeway Avenue near Residence C. The second petition proposes to amend and affirm the map at 265 Union Street to designate it as Industrial A. The third petition requests deregulation of family day‑care uses and other text updates.

• Zoning petition to amend/correct map at Ridgeway Ave, vicinity to Residence C
• Zoning petition to amend/affirm map at 265 Union Street as Industrial A
• Zoning petition to deregulate family day‑care uses and miscellaneous text updates

The committee tabled the September 2, 2025 minutes (2‑0). It reaffirmed the Ridgeway Avenue zone as Residence C (2‑0). It issued a negative recommendation on changing 265 Union Street from Rural Residential to Industrial A (2‑0). It gave a positive recommendation to deregulate family day‑care homes and adopt several zoning text updates (2‑0).

• Tabled September 2, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Reaffirmed Ridgeway Ave zone as Residence C (2-0)
• Negative recommendation on zone change for 265 Union St (2-0)
• Positive recommendation on deregulating family day‑care homes and zoning text updates (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a septic system replacement at 5 Pontoosic Road. The body will also discuss enforcement tasks for 74 Russellville Road and a site visit for 109 & 121 Medeiros Way.

• Public hearing for septic system replacement at 5 Pontoosic Road (DEP File #333-0876)
• Discussion on Enforcement Order tasks for 74 Russellville Road
• Review of 10/22/25 site visit for 109 & 121 Medeiros Way
• Ongoing review of draft Rules and Regulations to Ordinance #1773
• Report of Spotted Lanternfly sighting in Westfield

Conservation Commission

The committee will meet to appoint a chair and secretary. The primary purpose of the meeting is to conduct an executive session to interview applicants for employment or appointment.

• Appointment of committee chair and secretary
• Executive session to interview applicants for employment or appointment

City Council License Committee

The City Council License Committee will meet to consider a gas storage license application. The request concerns the storage of Jet-A fuel at a specific airport location.

• Application from Jimbob Aviation Inc. for a gas storage license for 20,000 gallons (AST) of Jet-A Fuel at 44 Airport Drive

Health Plan Trust

The Health Insurance Trust will meet on Oct. 27, 2025 at City Hall. The agenda includes routine items such as call to order, roll call, and approval of minutes from the Oct. 17 meeting. The main decision is the renewal of retiree health insurance. The meeting also provides time for public participation before adjourning.

• Renewal of retiree insurances
• Review and approve minutes from October 17, 2025

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the October 17 meeting. After discussion of retiree premium increases and a request for $500,000 in free cash, trustees voted 3‑2 to raise the Medex 2 plan by 9.367% and adopt the other plan changes presented by HUB International. The meeting was adjourned at 3:03 PM.

• Approved October 17 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved 9.367% increase to Medex 2 plan and other HUB‑proposed changes (3‑2)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to discuss ongoing projects including the 250th Celebration and National Registry candidates. The body will review a demolition report for a specific property and hear two presentations. The meeting includes reports from the Secretary and Treasurer.

• Demolition Report for 12 West Silver Street
• National Registry Candidates
• 250th Celebration
• Historic House Plaques
• Presentations by Robert Hoogs, Albert Masciadrelli, and Fred Benda

The commission approved an amendment to the September minutes to change "Montgomery" to "Monterey." A motion to reopen discussion of the 250th Revolution anniversary was carried. The commission unanimously accepted a proclamation honoring Henry Knox and unanimously approved sending the resolution to the mayor and City Council. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Amended September minutes to correct "Montgomery" to "Monterey" (approved)
• Reopened 250th anniversary discussion (motion carried)
• Accepted Henry Knox proclamation into the record (unanimous)
• Approved sending proclamation resolution to mayor and City Council (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Off-Street Parking Commission

The Off‑Street Parking Commission will receive an update from Community Development Director Peter Miller on maintenance and the latest financial report. Commissioners will discuss a potential “Pay by App” metering project for parking. The Mayor’s Office will request use of Elm Street Plaza for the city’s tree‑lighting event on November 29. The commission will confirm the November meeting date, approve the September 17 minutes, and approve monthly bills.

• Update from Community Development Director Peter Miller on maintenance and financial report
• Discussion of potential “Pay by App” parking metering project
• Mayor’s Office request to use Elm Street Plaza for tree‑lighting event on Nov 29
• Approval of monthly bills
• Confirmation of November meeting date

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved the Mayor’s request to use Elm Street Plaza for the Tree Lighting Event on November 29, 2025. The meeting was adjourned at 7:01 PM.

• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved use of Elm Street Plaza for Mayor’s Tree Lighting Event on Nov 29, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:01 PM (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review plans for 176 Fowler Rd. and 25 Mockingbird Lane & 420 Paper Mill Rd. The meeting includes a workshop to discuss the Master Plan, zoning map updates, and accessory dwelling unit regulations.

• Plan review: 176 Fowler Rd./Kominsky
• Plan review: 25 Mockingbird Lane & 420 Paper Mill Rd/Imbriglio & Okhrimenko
• Discussion of accessory dwelling units (ADU) impacts and regulations
• Review of zoning map errors and updates
• Discussion of model solar and battery energy storage systems bylaws

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the October 7 meeting and approved three subdivision‑control plans without opposition. It decided to recommend creating a dedicated economic‑development staff member by sending a letter to the mayor, and to form an implementation working group with an introductory meeting planned for November 18. The board also directed zoning‑map corrections, a draft of local solar and battery storage regulations, and postponed finalizing subdivision rule updates until the City Engineer position is filled.

• Approved October 7 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Papermill & Mockingbird Lane/Imbriglio & Okhimenko ANR (unanimous)
• Approved 176 Fowler Rd./Kominsky lot creation (unanimous)
• Agreed to propose a letter to the Mayor recommending a dedicated economic‑development staff position
• Agreed to create an implementation working group; introductory meeting set for Nov 18
• Planner to correct zoning map errors before the next map publication
• Agreed to draft local zoning regulations for solar and battery energy storage systems
• Decided to defer finalizing subdivision rule updates until the City Engineer position is filled

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The Westfield Commission for Citizens with Disabilities will approve the minutes from its September 16, 2025 meeting. It will receive an account update on fines and forfeits. The commission will discuss the Conservation Commission's Open Space Recreation Plan and receive updates on a traffic signal and a high‑priority transition plan.

• Approval of minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting
• Fine & forfeits account update
• Review and discussion of the Open Space Recreation Plan (Conservation Commission)
• Traffic signal update
• Review of High Priority (B) transition plan

The commission voted to assign Commissioner Anne Larkham as secretary pro tempore for this meeting. It then approved the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Assigned Commissioner Anne Larkham as secretary pro tempore (5-0)
• Approved September 16, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0)

Westfield Cultural Council

The Westfield Cultural Council will review the meeting minutes and hear the treasurer’s report. Members will discuss scheduling a voting meeting on November 18 at 5:30 p.m., including arrangements for food and drink. The council will receive updates from Bill Westerlind of ArtWorks and consider participation in a Tree Jubilee. No contracts, rezoning, or fee changes are on the agenda.

• Review and approve meeting minutes
• Hear treasurer’s financial report
• Plan voting meeting for Nov 18, 5:30 p.m., including food and drink
• Receive ArtWorks information and updates from Bill Westerlind
• Discuss participation in Tree Jubilee

Fire Commission

The Westfield Fire Commission will interview two candidates for an open Firefighter Basic EMT position. The body will also discuss the implementation of MRI recommendations and the process for filling the Fire Chief position upon Chief Egloff's retirement next spring.

• Interviews and potential vote to hire Michael Kelly or Jacob Sanborn as Firefighter Basic EMT
• Potential vote to call for a Fire Chief’s exam for May 2026
• Discussion and potential vote on a plan to fill the Fire Chief position
• Discussion on forming a committee to implement MRI recommendations

The commission unanimously accepted the September 8, 2025 regular and executive session minutes. It appointed Captain Keith Supinski as the department’s Public Information Officer. Commissioners voted 3‑0 to direct Personnel Director Anne Larkham to start a certification process for the Fire Chief position with a February interview date. They also voted 3‑0 to schedule a Fire Chief’s exam for May 2026.

• Accepted September 8, 2025 regular meeting minutes (3-0)
• Accepted September 8, 2025 executive session minutes (3-0)
• Appointed Captain Keith Supinski as Public Information Officer
• Directed Anne Larkham to call for certification for Fire Chief position, interview planned for February (3-0)
• Approved scheduling of Fire Chief’s exam for May 2026 (3-0)

License Commission

The License Commission will approve the minutes from its September 8, 2025 meeting and set the next meeting for November 10, 2025. Commissioners will hold an informational hearing on Police Incident Report #25‑29301 concerning an August 20, 2025 event at Hutghi’s Corporation and will vote on a request to the City Council for a home‑rule petition to convert Shiva Laxmi, Inc.’s seasonal liquor license to an annual license for Pleasant Street Market. The agenda also includes several license changes, including ownership transfers for Friendly’s Cafe, a location change for Bonte Restaurant, applications for new Common Victualler licenses, and approvals of several Section 14 one‑day liquor licenses for local organizations.

• Vote to request City Council for a home‑rule petition to convert Shiva Laxmi’s seasonal liquor license to an annual license (Pleasant Street Market, 54 Pleasant Street)
• Ownership transfer of I & J Inc. d/b/a Friendly’s Cafe (291 East Main Street) to Om Aadi Restaurant Westfield, LLC
• Location change for Bonte Restaurant from 18 School Street to 266 Elm Street
• Applications for new Common Victualler licenses by Yas Chicken (225 East Main Street) and The Coffee Shop (16 Union Street)
• Approvals of Section 14 special one‑day liquor licenses for Westfield Athenaeum (6 Elm Street), Westfield State University (577 Western Avenue), The Beer Guy (21 Mountain View Street, South Hadley), and Westfield Woman’s Club (28 Court Street)

The commission unanimously tabled the September 8 minutes and filed police incident report #25‑29301. It sent a home‑rule petition letter to City Council for Pleasant Street Market. It approved several one‑day liquor licenses, a change of ownership for Friendly’s Cafe, and a change of location for Bonte Restaurant. Additional common victualler licenses and police reports were also filed or tabled.

• Tabled September 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Filed police incident report #25‑29301 (unanimous)
• Sent home‑rule petition letter for Pleasant Street Market to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved Westfield Woman's Club one‑day liquor license, fee waived (unanimous)
• Approved ownership change for Friendly's Cafe (unanimous)
• Approved location change for Bonte Restaurant to 266 Elm Street (unanimous)
• Approved common victualler licenses for Yas Chicken and The Coffee Shop (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor licenses for Westfield Athenaeum, Westfield State University (Hall of Fame Dinner), and The Beer Guy fundraiser (unanimous)

Retirement Board

The Westfield Retirement Board will review investment performance and any recommended changes. It will consider a cost‑of‑living adjustment (COLA) increase and evaluate a cyber‑insurance quote. An option‑selection form invalidation will be discussed, likely in executive session. The board will also approve routine items such as bills, minutes, and retirement or disability applications.

• Monthly investment performance review
• Recommended investment changes
• COLA (cost‑of‑living adjustment) increase discussion
• Cyber‑insurance quote evaluation
• Option selection form invalidation discussion (executive session)

The Retirement Board approved the recommended changes to its investment portfolio, including a $5 million commitment to the PRIT Private Equity Fund. It also approved the bills and warrants presented, totaling $2,264,256.31. Additional actions included accepting a retirement application, tabling a COLA increase vote, adding new members, granting two refunds/transfers, and adjourning the meeting.

• Adopt recommended investment portfolio changes (including $5 M PRIT fund) – passed
• Approve bills and warrants totaling $2,264,256.31 – passed
• Approve minutes of the September 23, 2025 meeting – passed
• Accept retirement application of Raymond Tuttle – passed
• Table vote on COLA increase until after municipal election – passed
• Accept listed new members for various boards – passed
• Grant refunds/transfers for Kaitlyn Creech and Marnie Fitzgerald – passed
• Adjourn meeting – passed

School Committee Subcommittee

The Facilities/Capital Planning Subcommittee will hold a public participation session. It will discuss a proposal to name the Westfield High School swimming pool. An update on the Westfield High School field project will be provided. The committee will also review restroom facility maintenance at Westfield Technical Academy.

• Public participation session (excluding personnel)
• Proposal to name Westfield High School swimming pool
• Field project update for Westfield High School
• Restroom facility maintenance at Westfield Technical Academy

The Facilities/Capital Planning Subcommittee decided that Superintendent Czaporowski will contact the Westfield High School principal to gather input from the school community and School Council about naming the high school pool after Christopher J. Chambers. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No other actions were approved or denied.

• Superintendent Czaporowski to contact Westfield High School principal for input on pool naming (decision)
• Subcommittee motion to adjourn passed unanimously

School Committee Subcommittee

The Human Resources & Policy Subcommittee will meet on Oct. 20, 2025 at City Hall. The agenda includes public participation (excluding personnel matters) and a review of four school committee policy files: JLCA Physical Examinations and Screenings of Students, JF School Admissions, IKFE Competency Determination, and IKF Graduation Requirements.

• Review of JLCA Physical Examinations and Screenings of Students (MASC sample) policy file
• Review of JF School Admissions policy file
• Review of IKFE Competency Determination (MASC sample) policy file
• Review of IKF Graduation Requirements policy file

The Human Resources & Policy Subcommittee adopted the JUCA Physical Examinations and Screenings of Students policy, amended the JF School Admissions policy, and both were forwarded as recommendations to the full committee. The subcommittee also voted to table the IKFE Competency Determination and IKF Graduation Requirements policies. All motions passed unanimously.

• Adopted JUCA Physical Examinations and Screenings of Students policy (unanimous)
• Amended JF School Admissions policy (unanimous)
• Tabled IKFE Competency Determination policy (unanimous)
• Tabled IKF Graduation Requirements policy (unanimous)

Council On Aging

The board will approve the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes and hear public participation. It will discuss a recap of the Senior Opinions event and the 10th anniversary celebration of the new senior center. Updates will be given on staffing, the MCOA conference, building maintenance, and Title III grant funding. The board will also review draft policies on conduct, independence, informational literature, and participant grievances.

• Approval of September 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Recap of Senior Opinions event
• 10th anniversary celebration of the new senior center
• Grant Title III updates
• Draft policies: Code of Conduct, Standards of Independence, Informational Literature, Participant Grievance

The Council on Aging approved the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes with a 6‑0 vote. The board also approved a slate of four policy revisions—the Code of Conduct, Standards of Independence, Informational Literature, and Participant Grievance policies—by a 6‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved September 8, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Approved Code of Conduct, Standards of Independence, Informational Literature, and Participant Grievance policies (6-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (6-0)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Commission will approve minutes from the August 11, 2025 meeting, receive public participation, and follow up on concerns raised by Municipal Park area residents. Commissioners will also discuss creating and distributing a program brochure and set the date and time for the next meeting.

• Approval of minutes from the August 11, 2025 meeting
• Public Participation
• Follow‑up discussion of concerns of Municipal Park area residents
• Discussion of creating and distributing a program brochure
• Discuss next meeting date and time

The commission approved the minutes from the August 11, 2025 meeting. It decided to resume publishing the printed program brochure, noting that funding will come from the revolving account rather than the city budget. Other park issues were discussed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved minutes from August 11, 2025 (motion passed)
• Reinstated printed program brochure (decision made)

Health Plan Trust

The Westfield Health Insurance Trust will meet to review its current balance. The board will consider renewing retiree health insurance coverage. The agenda also includes approval of the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes and a period for public participation.

• Approve minutes from September 8, 2025 meeting
• Public participation
• Review health insurance trust balance
• Renew retiree health insurance policies

The board voted 5-0 to approve the minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting. Trustees also voted 5-0 to renew the HNE retiree health plan for 2026. The meeting was adjourned by a 5-0 vote.

• Approved September 8, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Renewed HNE retiree health plan for 2026 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

City Council

The Westfield City Council will hold a continued public hearing on a zoning petition to amend the map at 265 Union Street to Industrial A. Council members will consider several financial transfers and appropriations, including a $35,375.50 transfer within the Department of Public Works and multiple Community Preservation Committee appropriations for church accessibility and restoration projects. The council will also receive a resolution authorizing the mayor to partner with the Council on Aging and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts for the "Brown Bag: Food for Older Adults" program, and will consider a gas storage license application for 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive.

• Transfer of $35,375.50 between DPW Stormwater and Land & Natural Resources accounts
• Continued public hearing on zoning petition for 265 Union Street to become Industrial A
• Appropriation of $79,000 for accessibility improvements at the Church of Atonement
• Appropriation of $45,000 for stained‑glass window restoration at Central Baptist Church
• Application for a gas storage license for 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive by Jimbob Aviation Inc.

The City Council gave first reading and moved the ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances to double pay for Planning Board and Zoning Board alternates to a second reading, effective July 1 2025. The council approved several Community Preservation Fund allocations, including $45,000 for Central Baptist Church stained‑glass restoration (with one dissenting vote) and $115,000 total for accessibility work at the Church of Atonement. The Westfield Gas and Electric Emergency Response Plan was accepted and placed on file, and a change to the Superintendent of Buildings job description was approved. Multiple fund transfers and appropriations were also approved by the Finance Committee.

• Ordinance amending pay for Planning and Zoning Board alternates given first reading and passed to second reading (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved $45,000 from Community Preservation Committee for Central Baptist Church stained‑glass restoration (Yes: 13, No: 1 – Brent Bean II)
• Approved $79,000 from Community Preservation Historic account for accessibility improvements at Church of Atonement (all councilors Yes)
• Approved $36,000 from Community Preservation Undesignated account for additional accessibility work at Church of Atonement (all councilors Yes)
• Approved $9,875.15 transfer between Public Works accounts to pay Coward Farms invoice (all councilors Yes)
• Accepted Westfield Gas and Electric Emergency Response Plan and placed on file (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved change to the job description for Superintendent of Buildings (voice vote, all in favor)
• Referred Mayor’s communication items to Finance, Legislative Ordinance, and Personnel Action committees as requested

Off-Street Parking Commission

The Off-Street Parking Commission will review a financial report and maintenance updates from the Community Development Director. Members will discuss a potential "Pay by App" metering project and a request for the Mayor's Tree Lighting Event.

• Discussion of "Pay by App" metering project
• Request for Mayor's Tree Lighting Event at Elm Street Plaza on November 29th
• Financial report and maintenance update from Director Peter Miller
• Approval of monthly bills

City Council License Committee

The City Council License Committee will meet on October 15, 2025 at 5:00 PM in Westfield City Hall, Room 201. The committee will consider an application from Jimbob Aviation Inc. for a gas storage license to store 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive. Public participation will be limited to 15 minutes, with up to three minutes per speaker.

• Consider Jimbob Aviation Inc. application for 20,000‑gallon Jet‑A fuel storage at 44 Airport Drive
• Allocate 15 minutes for public comments, 3 minutes per speaker

Conservation Commission

The Westfield Conservation Commission will consider approving two sections of the draft Wetlands Protection Ordinance #1773 for public comment. It will also review several other sections of the draft rules and discuss site‑specific items at 74 Russellville Road and 300 Union Street, as well as provide an update on the search for a Conservation Agent. The meeting includes a public participation segment for comments on non‑hearing items.

• Approve sections §4.9 Seasonal Wetlands and §4.6 Isolated Vegetated Wetlands for public comment
• Review draft rule sections §4.1 Introduction through §4.5 General Provisions
• Discuss 74 Russellville Road – Liberty Manor (materials not yet received)
• Notes on pre‑construction site visit at 300 Union St.
• Update on job search for Conservation Agent position

Police Commission

The Westfield Police Commission will hold a special meeting to approve the minutes from August 18, 2025, hear open participation, and receive reports from the Chief and a Captain, as well as conduct a Fall Recognition Ceremony. No policy decisions, contracts, or ordinance changes are on the agenda.

• Approval and release of minutes from August 18, 2025
• Open participation segment for public comments
• Fall Recognition Ceremony
• Chief’s Report
• Captain’s Report

The commission approved and released the minutes from August 18, 2025 with unanimous support. A fall recognition ceremony presented letters and commendation shields to officers and civilians. Chief Pitoniak and Captain Hall gave reports on upcoming building projects, staffing, and grant efforts. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote and the next session was set for November 10, 2025.

• Approved August 18, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will approve minutes from the June 2025 finance meetings. It will transfer $9,875.15 from the Public Works FY26 Supplies Account to the FY24 Supplies Account to pay an invoice to Coward Farms. The committee will appropriate $79,000 and $36,000 from Community Preservation Committee accounts to the Church of the Atonement for accessibility improvements, and $45,000 to Central Baptist Church for stained‑glass window repair. Councilor Figy will move to amend Ordinance 1768 to include alternates of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board among members eligible for twice the established compensation rate.

• Transfer $9,875.15 to pay Coward Farms invoice
• Appropriation $79,000 for accessibility improvements at Church of the Atonement (Historic FY26 account)
• Appropriation $36,000 for accessibility improvements at Church of the Atonement (Undesignated FY26 account)
• Appropriation $45,000 for stained‑glass window repair at Central Baptist Church
• Motion to amend Ordinance 1768 to extend double compensation to alternates of Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board

The committee approved several budget items, including a $79,000 appropriation for accessibility improvements at the Church of Atonement and a $36,000 follow‑up appropriation. It also approved a $45,000 grant for stained‑glass window restoration at Central Baptist Church, a $9,875.15 transfer for a Coward Farms invoice, and an ordinance amendment restoring alternate board member pay. All motions passed except the Central Baptist Church grant, which passed 2‑1.

• Approved Finance Budget minutes of June 16, 2025, June 17, 2025, and June 23, 2025 (3‑0)
• Approved $9,875.15 transfer from DPW FY26 Supplies Account to FY24 Supplies Account for Coward Farms invoice (3‑0)
• Approved $79,000 appropriation from CPC Historic FY26 Account to CPA Church of the Atonement for elevator improvements (3‑0)
• Approved $36,000 appropriation from CPC Undesignated FY26 Account to CPA Church of the Atonement for elevator improvements (3‑0)
• Approved $45,000 appropriation from CPC Undesignated FY26 Account to CPA Central Baptist Church for stained‑glass window restoration (2‑1)
• Approved amendment to Ordinance 1768 to restore alternate board member compensation (3‑0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (3‑0)

Police Commission

The meeting originally scheduled for October 13, 2025, has been rescheduled. It will now take place on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 5:30 pm in Council Chambers.

Westfield Airport Commission

The Westfield Airport Commission will meet to approve minutes, review operational statistics, and discuss the airport noise program and land re-use plan. The agenda includes a contract signing authorization and an update on engineering work.

• Contract Signing Authorization
• ASG Engineering Update
• Airport Noise Program: Grant Update & Pilot Program of Soundproofing Mitigation
• Land Re-Use Plan Update
• Operational Statistics – Stats, Ops News, Tenant Items

The Westfield Airport Commission approved the September 11, 2025 meeting minutes. They authorized Airport Manager Dan Shearer and Operations Manager Jeff Lovejoy as signing agents for approved funds. The commission then adjourned the meeting with a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved September 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous Yes votes)
• Authorized Dan Shearer and Jeff Lovejoy as signing authority for approved funds (unanimous Yes votes)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0 vote)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review department minutes and bills, hear appeals regarding tobacco violations at two local shops, and discuss updates to Waste Zero regulations. The meeting will also cover a new Substance Use Outreach Coordinator and landfill maintenance.

• Tobacco violation hearings for MZY Corp. (41 Franklin St.) and Shiva Laxmi (54 Pleasant St.)
• Whip City Spirits license permit suspension hearing (131 Meadow St.)
• Discussion regarding Waste Zero and updating regulations
• New Substance Use Outreach Coordinator hire
• Landfill cap repair and flare updates

The Board approved the September 10, 2025 minutes and then closed the tobacco hearing for MZY Corp. It affirmed a $5,000 fine and a 30‑day permit suspension for MZY Corp. The Board also closed the hearing for Shiva Laxmi, Inc., affirmed a $1,000 fine for that retailer, and affirmed a 14‑day suspension (with a $2,000 fine already paid) for Whip City Spirits.

• Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Closed MZY Corp. tobacco violation hearing (3-0)
• Affirmed $5,000 fine and 30‑day tobacco permit suspension for MZY Corp. (3-0)
• Closed Shiva Laxmi, Inc. tobacco violation hearing (3-0)
• Affirmed $1,000 fine for Shiva Laxmi, Inc. (3-0)
• Affirmed 14‑day suspension for Whip City Spirits (fine already paid) (3-0)

Westfield Redevelopment Authority

The Westfield Redevelopment Authority will approve the minutes from its August 20, 2025 meeting. Committee reports, including a financial summary and the Executive Director’s report, will be presented. The board will discuss next steps for the Riverfront Redevelopment Concept Plan and consider a Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) application. No other items are listed.

• Approve minutes of August 20, 2025 meeting
• Review WRA Financial Summary report
• Review Executive Director report
• Discuss next steps for Riverfront Redevelopment Concept Plan
• Consider Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) application

The Westfield Redevelopment Authority regular meeting scheduled for Oct. 7, 2025 was not held because a quorum was not present. Consequently, no actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will consider a reimbursement request for the sewer permit application at 420 Papermill Road. It will also discuss and possibly vote on a policy regarding Accessory Dwelling Units. The meeting includes routine items such as approving the September 2, 2025 minutes, a monthly report, and reviewing bills payable. The next meeting date will be discussed, noting that November 4 is Election Day.

• Reimbursement of the sewer permit application for 420 Papermill Road
• Possible vote on policy for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Reading and vote to approve September 2, 2025 minutes
• Review of bills payable since last meeting
• Discussion of next meeting date (November 4 is Election Day)

The Board waived and approved the September 2, 2025 minutes unanimously. It approved reimbursement for the sewer permit application at 420 Papermill Road. The Board also adopted the draft Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) policy with a 3‑0 vote.

• Waived and approved September 2, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved reimbursement for sewer permit application at 420 Papermill Road (3-0)
• Adopted Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) policy (3-0)

Water Commission

The Water Commission will consider a vote to ratify a state‑issued water‑conservation declaration in response to drought conditions. It will also discuss the water connection at 256 Hampden Ave and ongoing utility billing issues for Heritage Park and The Arbors. Additional topics include policies for accessory dwelling units, service matters for Southwick customers, and grinder pump maintenance responsibilities. Routine items include the monthly department report, approval of September 9, 2025 minutes, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Vote to ratify the state water‑conservation declaration (drought status)
• Discussion of 256 Hampden Ave water connection
• Continued discussion of Heritage Park and The Arbors combined utility bill
• Discussion and possible vote on policies for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Continued discussion on grinder pump maintenance responsibilities

The commission voted 3-0 to ratify the level‑2 drought water restriction. It also approved the new Accessory Dwelling Unit water service policy by a 3-0 vote. The September 9, 2025 minutes were approved as amended (3-0) and the meeting was adjourned (3-0). No other formal actions were taken.

• Ratified level‑2 drought water restriction (3-0)
• Approved ADU water service policy (3-0)
• Approved September 9, 2025 minutes as amended (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:57 p.m. (3-0)

Planning Board

The Westfield Planning Board will hold a regular meeting on October 7, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall’s Council Chambers. The agenda includes a public hearing on four zoning petitions to amend or affirm maps at Ridgeway Avenue, 265 Union Street, 2 & 0 Cycle Street, and to deregulate family day‑care uses. Two special permit applications from Little River Plaza, LLC for lots “A” and “B” on East Main Street will also be considered. Additional items are a street‑acceptance petition for Belvedere Gardens, a potential rezoning of the Abner Gibbs School site on West Silver Street, and routine business such as approval of the September 2, 2025 minutes.

• Public hearing on four zoning petitions: Ridgeway Ave (Residence C), 265 Union St (Industrial A), 2 & 0 Cycle St (Residential C & Industrial A), and deregulation of family day‑care uses
• Special permit applications by Little River Plaza, LLC for Lot “A” and Lot “B” on 437/587 E. Main St. (Business B, floodplain)
• Street Acceptance Petition for Belvedere Gardens (referred from City Council)
• Potential rezoning consideration for the Abner Gibbs School site on West Silver St.
• Review and approval of the September 2, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board voted to approve special permits for Lot A (437 East Main St.) and Lot B, allowing easement access and parking arrangements. It also adopted positive recommendations to correct the zoning map at Ridgeway Ave and to affirm 265 Union St as Industrial A, despite two dissenting votes. Additional recommendations to accept Belvedere Gardens as a public street and to rezone the former Abner Gibbs school to an expanded Commercial A district were also approved.

• Approved special permit for Lot A (437 East Main St.) – all Yes
• Approved special permit for Lot B – all Yes
• Positive recommendation to correct map at Ridgeway Ave – all Yes
• Positive recommendation to affirm 265 Union St as Industrial A – Yes (4), No (2)
• Positive recommendation to accept Belvedere Gardens as a public street – all Yes
• Positive recommendation to rezone former Abner Gibbs school to expanded Commercial A – all Yes
• Positive recommendation to deregulate family day‑care uses – all Yes
• Approved minutes from 9/2 meeting – all Yes

Westfield Housing Authority

The Westfield Housing Authority meeting on October 7, 2025 will discuss public participation, committee reports, recent bill payments, and incoming communications. It will review old business items such as modernization updates and an audit. New business includes setting future meeting times, personnel matters, releasing a contractor for CPA basement windows, and approving low‑bid contracts for Dolan fire alarms, WH window replacement, Crown Street repair, CPA roof replacement, JFK light poles, and Ely storm doors, as well as Section 8 payment standards.

• Low‑bid approval – Dolan fire alarms
• Low‑bid approval – WH window replacement
• Low‑bid approval – Crown Street repair
• Low‑bid approval – CPA roof replacement
• Low‑bid approval – JFK light poles

The board unanimously approved several low‑bid contracts for building repairs and upgrades, released a contractor from a window‑replacement contract, and increased Section 8 payment standards to 105% of current Fair Market Rents effective Dec 1 2025. It also authorized a one‑year management agreement with the Southwick Housing Authority and set the next meeting for Nov 10 2025.

• Approved low bid of $439,200 for Dolan fire alarm system replacement (4-0)
• Approved low bid of $56,516 for Washington House window exterior work (4-0)
• Approved low bid of $123,750 for Crown Street renovation (4-0)
• Approved low bid of $36,900 for CPA roof replacement (4-0)
• Approved low bid of $101,500 for JFK light pole upgrade (4-0)
• Approved low bid of $55,120 for Ely storm door replacement (4-0)
• Released Sovereign Builders from CPA basement window contract (4-0)
• Increased Section 8 payment standards to 105% of Fair Market Rent (4-0)

City Council

The Westfield City Council will vote on the final passage of an ordinance appointing the Chief Assessor. The council will also approve a $21,815.34 transfer from the Reserve for Future Salary Increases Account to fund the first year of the ratified Successor Agreement with the Westfield Municipal Employee Association. Several public hearings are scheduled, including a gas storage license for 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive and multiple zoning petitions on Ridgeway Ave, 265 Union Street, and Cycle Street. A job description change for the Superintendent of Buildings will be submitted for consideration.

• Transfer of $21,815.34 from the Reserve for Future Salary Increases Account to fund employee contracts
• Public hearing on a gas storage license for 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive (Jimbob Aviation Inc.)
• Public hearing on a zoning petition to amend the map at Ridgeway Ave near Residence C
• Public hearing on a zoning petition to amend the map at 265 Union Street to Industrial A
• Second reading and final passage of the ordinance appointing the Chief Assessor

The council approved a $21,815.34 transfer from the Reserve for Future Salary Increases Account to fund the first‑year contracts of the Successor Agreement with the Westfield Municipal Employee Association. The job description for Superintendent of Buildings was referred to the Personnel Action Committee. A gas‑storage license petition for 44 Airport Drive was closed and sent to the License Committee. A zoning map correction for Ridgeway Avenue was closed and sent to the Zoning, Planning and Development Committee.

• Approved $21,815.34 transfer from reserve account (9‑0 vote)
• Referred Superintendent of Buildings job description to Personnel Action Committee (9‑0 vote)
• Closed gas storage license hearing and referred petition to License Committee
• Closed Ridgeway Ave zoning petition and referred to Zoning, Planning and Development Committee

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on October 2, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers, 59 Court Street. The hearing will consider Jimbob Aviation, Inc.’s application to store 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive in Westfield. No decision is indicated; the agenda calls for discussion of the proposal.

• Application to store 20,000 gallons of Jet‑A fuel at 44 Airport Drive (Jimbob Aviation, Inc.)
• Public hearing scheduled for Oct 2, 2025, 7:00 PM, City Council Chambers, 59 Court Street

City Council

The City Council will consider zoning petitions from the Planning Board. These include map amendments for specific properties and a proposal to deregulate family day care uses.

• Map amendment at Ridgeway Ave. vicinity to Residence C
• Map amendment at 265 Union St. to Industrial A
• Map amendment at 2 & 0 Cycle St. (Parcel 21-32-1A) to Res. C and Ind. A
• Deregulate family day care uses and miscellaneous text updates

City Council License Committee

The City Council License Committee will meet to consider an application for an annual fortune teller license. The committee will also hear public comments before adjourning.

• Public participation: 15 minutes total
• Application for fortune teller license
• License to be exercised at 16 Union Ave, 3B

Municipal Light Board

The Westfield Municipal Light Board will meet on October 1, 2025. The agenda includes routine items such as roll call, public comments, and staff reports. The board will enter an executive session to discuss a strategic planning framework, the 2025/2026 winter process strategy, a property matter, and the IBEW collective bargaining agreement. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed.

• Executive session to discuss strategic planning framework
• Executive session to discuss 2025/2026 winter process strategy (verbal)
• Executive session to discuss property discussion (verbal)
• Executive session to discuss IBEW collective bargaining agreement
• Holiday discount discussion (verbal)

The Municipal Light Board accepted the minutes from the September 3, 2025 regular and executive sessions. The motion passed unanimously, 6‑0. A discussion was held about a possible $25 flat‑rate holiday discount for residential customers, but no motion was adopted. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Accepted September 3, 2025 minutes (6-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Westfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider special permit applications. The board will decide on requests regarding setbacks and lot usage for three specific addresses.

• Special permit for addition at 55 Gifford Ave. regarding non-conforming side yard setback
• Special permit for conversion to a 2-family home at 13 Hampden St. regarding undersized lot
• Special permit for a shed with reduced rear yard setback at 86 Montgomery St.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for a 14' × 18' addition at 55 Gifford Avenue. It also approved a conversion of a single‑family townhouse to a two‑family dwelling at 13 Hampden Street, including a parking waiver. A third permit was granted for a 12' × 22' shed with a reduced rear‑yard setback at 86 Montgomery Street. All approvals were passed by unanimous roll‑call vote.

• Approved Special Permit for 55 Gifford Ave addition (Chair Sullivan, Bitzas, Webster, Gilbert – Yes)
• Approved Special Permit for 13 Hampden St two‑family conversion and parking waiver (Chair Sullivan, Bitzas, Webster, Gilbert – Yes)
• Approved Special Permit for 86 Montgomery St shed with 2‑ft rear setback (Chair Sullivan, Bitzas, Webster, Gilbert – Yes)

Emergency Planning Committee

The Westfield Local Emergency Planning Committee will discuss the status of grant funding for swift water suits, provide updates on upcoming public events such as active shooter training, Pumpkinfest, the Great River Ride on 10/12, and Homecoming on 10/25, receive departmental reports, and consider an unfinished business item to create a standardized format for city events.

• Status of grant/funds for LEPC – Swift water suits
• Upcoming events: active shooter training, Pumpkinfest, Great River Ride (10/12), Homecoming (10/25)
• Unfinished business – creating a standardized format for city events
• Tier 2 updates
• Departmental reports from multiple city agencies (e.g., Airport, Animal Control, Health Dept.)

Conservation Commission

The Westfield Conservation Commission scheduled for September 30, 2025 was canceled because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were considered or decided at this meeting.

Community Development

The City of Westfield will hold a public hearing on the draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) covering July 1 2024 – June 30 2025. Draft copies are available Sep 4‑26, 2025 at 59 Court Street, Room 300 and online. Residents may submit written comments by 4:00 PM on Sep 26, 2025.

• Draft CAPER report (July 1 2024 – June 30 2025) available Sep 4‑26, 2025 at 59 Court Street, Room 300
• Public hearing scheduled Wed Sep 24 2025, 5:00 PM, City Hall, Room 315
• Written comments accepted until 4:00 PM Sep 26 2025 via mail or email to [email protected]
• Report details use of federal CDBG and HOME grant programs
• Draft also posted on www.cityofwestfield.org

Retirement Board

The Westfield Retirement Board will review investment performance and any recommended changes. It will approve and sign various financial documents, including bills payable and warrants. The board will consider the FY 26 Appropriation Bill #2 of 3 and renew office contracts. Additional items include retirement and disability applications, PERAC memos, and new member introductions.

• Monthly investment performance review
• FY 26 Appropriation Bill #2 of 3
• Office contract renewals
• Approval of retirement applications and figures
• Disability applications

The Retirement Board approved its September bills and warrants, accepted the minutes from the August 26 meeting, and approved retirement applications and figures for two members. It also approved sending the second FY 26 appropriation bill to the City and adopted a new three‑year contract for Executive Director Liam Browne effective September 17, 2025. New school members were accepted and listed refunds and transfers were authorized.

• Approved September bills and warrants (unanimous YES vote)
• Approved August 26 minutes (unanimous YES vote)
• Accepted retirement application for Sandra Hernandez (unanimous YES vote)
• Approved retirement figure for Russell Miller – $33,329.88/year (unanimous YES vote)
• Approved sending second FY 26 appropriation bill to the City (unanimous YES vote)
• Approved new 3‑year contract for Executive Director Liam Browne, effective 9/17/2025 (unanimous YES vote)
• Accepted listed new school members into the system (unanimous YES vote)
• Authorized listed refunds and transfers with applicable interest (unanimous YES vote)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider an enforcement order for 74 Russellville Road (Liberty Manor) for violating a local wetland permit. It will discuss the Conservation Agent position, including job description, posting, and screening committee. The commission will review and update policy deadlines for submitting applications and materials. It will also continue reviewing draft rules and regulations for Ordinance #1773, focusing on specific sections such as buffer zones and seasonal wetlands.

• Enforcement order for 74 Russellville Road – Liberty Manor (wetland permit violation)
• Discussion on Conservation Agent position: job description, posting, screening committee
• Policy review: new applications due 10 business days before meeting; materials due 4 business days before
• Review of draft rules and regulations to Ordinance #1773 (e.g., §4.10 Buffer Zone, §4.9 Seasonal Wetlands)
• Scheduled additional meetings on 9/2, 9/16, and 9/30 for Ordinance #1773 review

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to review old business and new proposals. Key items include a demolition report for a specific property and the sale of two churches.

• Demolition report for property at 12 West Silver St.
• Sale of St. Peter’s/St. Casimir’s Church
• National Registry of Historic Places status for Wyben Schoolhouse
• 250th Celebration of the American Revolution
• Tri Town History Trail

The commission approved corrected August minutes. It voted to pursue hiring an alternate consultant for the National Registry application. Commissioners unanimously nominated Cindy Gaylord and Carly Bannish for the 2025‑2026 Preservation Award. Commissioners also arranged to conduct metal detection themselves for the 12 West Silver St. demolition site.

• Approved corrected August minutes (unanimous)
• Carried motion to hire an alternate consultant for National Registry application
• Nominated Cindy Gaylord and Carly Bannish for Preservation Award (unanimous)
• Commissioners Aieta and MacMunn will perform metal detection for 12 West Silver St. demolition site
• Reserved room 201 on Oct 8 for cleaning stored commission files

City Council

The Westfield City Council announced that its regularly scheduled meeting originally set for Thursday, September 18, 2025, has been rescheduled to Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 7:00 PM. The meeting will take place in the City Council Chambers, Room 207. No other agenda items were listed.

Hampden Charter School of Science

The board will meet to review a CEO report and address trustee term renewals. The meeting also includes a period for public comment.

• Trustee Term Renewal

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee will consider three items: an ordinance to amend the Code of Ordinances for the appointment of the City Assessor; a notice of intent for the William F. Reed Family Nominee Trust to convert land on Cabot Road to residential use, invoking the city’s first right of refusal under MGL 61A Section 14; and a resolution to enter a Model Host Community Agreement with Westfield Ultra Premium, LLC for cannabis retail, cultivation, manufacturing, delivery and medical cannabis operations from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2034.

• Ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article IV, Division 3, Section 2-306 to change the appointment process for the City Assessor.
• Notice of Intent by William F. Reed and James C. Reed, Trustees of the William F. Reed Family Nominee Trust, to convert land on Cabot Road to residential use with the city’s first right of refusal per MGL 61A Sec. 14.
• Resolution to adopt a Model Host Community Agreement with Westfield Ultra Premium, LLC for cannabis retail, cultivation, manufacturing, delivery and medical cannabis, effective 10/1/2025‑9/30/2034.

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee approved the September 3 minutes (2‑0). It voted to send an ordinance amendment to rename the City Assessor position with a positive recommendation (2‑0). It voted to send a notice of intent for the William F. Reed Family Nominee Trust land conversion with a negative recommendation (2‑0). It voted to send a resolution for a Model Host Community Agreement with Westfield Ultra‑Premium, LLC for cannabis operations with a positive recommendation (2‑0). The committee then adjourned (2‑0).

• Approved September 3 minutes (2‑0)
• Sent ordinance amendment on City Assessor title with positive recommendation (2‑0)
• Sent notice of intent for Cabot Road land conversion with negative recommendation (2‑0)
• Sent resolution for Model Host Community Agreement with Westfield Ultra‑Premium, LLC (cannabis) with positive recommendation (2‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (2‑0)

Traffic Commission

The Westfield Traffic Commission will meet to discuss several proposed traffic safety measures, including new stop signs and restrictions on left turns from local schools. The body will also approve minutes from a previous meeting.

• Approval of June 18, 2025 minutes
• Stop Sign - Greylock Street @ Franklin Street
• Stop Sign - Ridgecrest Circle @ Oak Lane
• No Left Turn exiting Westfield Middle School
• No Left Turn exiting Highland Elementary

The commission voted to approve the two‑way traffic configuration for the Lockhouse Road rotary to Arch Road. It also approved No‑Left‑Turn ordinances for Westfield Middle School and Highland Elementary during school hours. Additionally, a stop sign at Ridgecrest Drive was declined, a stop sign at Pine Street was approved, and the Old Cabot Road stop‑sign request was tabled.

• Approved two‑way traffic on Lockhouse Road rotary to Arch Road (unanimous Yes)
• Declined stop sign at Ridgecrest Drive at Oak Lane (unanimous Yes)
• Approved stop sign at Pine Street at Prospect Street (unanimous Yes)
• Tabled stop sign request for Old Cabot Road at Russellville Road (unanimous Yes)
• Approved No‑Left‑Turn restriction at Westfield Middle School (7:00‑9:00 & 13:00‑15:00) (unanimous Yes)
• Approved No‑Left‑Turn restriction at Highland Elementary (8:30‑9:30 & 14:30‑15:30) (unanimous Yes)
• Motion to approve June 18, 2025 minutes failed due to lack of quorum; minutes held for next meeting

City Council

The City Council will vote on accepting an $810,200 Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness grant for infrastructure work on the Middle School parking lot and a $70,000 donation for the South Middle School parking lot. It will also consider appropriations for accessibility improvements at the Church of Atonement and stained‑glass restoration at Central Baptist Church. Additional agenda items include an ordinance amendment for the City Assessor appointment, a notice of intent to convert land on Cabot Road to residential use, and a resolution to enter a Model Host Community Agreement with Westfield Ultra Premium, LLC for cannabis operations from 2025 to 2034. A motion will be discussed on updating traffic ordinances for electric bikes, scooters, and skateboards.

• Consider $810,200 MVP grant for Middle School parking lot improvements
• Accept $70,000 donation for South Middle School parking lot infrastructure
• Appropriation of $79,000 and $36,000 for accessibility upgrades at Church of Atonement
• Ordinance amendment to change City Assessor appointment process
• Resolution to sign Model Host Community Agreement with Westfield Ultra Premium, LLC for cannabis retail and related activities (2025‑2034)

The Council accepted an $810,200 grant for Middle School parking lot improvements and a $70,000 gift donation for the same project. It adopted a resolution allowing Westfield Ultra Premium, LLC to operate a cannabis retail, cultivation, and manufacturing facility at 98 Sergeant T.M. Dion Way. Two traffic‑related ordinances – Stop Intersections and Handicapped Parking – were given second reading and passed to be ordained. The Council also suspended its rules to act on items and referred several appropriations to the Finance Committee.

• Accepted $810,200 MVP grant for Middle School parking lot (11 Yes, 2 Absent)
• Accepted $70,000 gift donation from Westfield River Watershed Association (11 Yes, 2 Absent)
• Adopted resolution for Model Host Community Agreement with Westfield Ultra Premium, LLC (8 Yes, 3 No, 2 Absent)
• Adopted Stop Intersections ordinance (11 Yes, 2 Absent)
• Adopted Handicapped Parking ordinance (11 Yes, 2 Absent)
• Suspended City Council rules to act on items (voice vote, all in favor)
• Referred appropriations for Church of Atonement and Central Baptist Church to Finance Committee (voice vote, all in favor)
• Referred petition for fortune‑teller license to License Committee and scheduled public hearing (voice vote, all in favor, one opposition)

Off-Street Parking Commission

The Off‑Street Parking Commission will confirm the date for its October meeting and approve the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting. It will receive an update from Community Development Director Peter Miller on maintenance, the snow‑plow contract, and the financial report. The commission will discuss a potential “Pay by App” metering project and approve the monthly bills received.

• Confirm October meeting date
• Approve August 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Snow plow contract update (no amount specified)
• Discussion of potential “Pay by App” parking metering project
• Approval of monthly bills

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting. Commissioners also unanimously approved the monthly bills presented by the Community Development Director. The commission discussed a potential "pay‑by‑app" metering project and scheduled the next meeting for October 15, 2025.

• Approved August 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved monthly bills (unanimous)

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The Westfield Commission for Citizens with Disabilities will review an update from the Conservation Commission on the Open Space Recreation Plan. It will also receive updates on a traffic signal project and a high‑priority transition plan. The meeting includes routine items such as approving the August 19 minutes and a fine and forfeits account update.

• Approval of minutes from Tuesday, August 19, 2025
• Fine & forfeits – account update
• Review and discuss the Open Space Recreation Plan (Conservation Commission) update
• Traffic signal update
• Transition plan – review of high priority (B)

The commission approved the August 19, 2025 meeting minutes with a 5‑0 vote. The fines and forfeits account shows a current balance of $55,035.00 after $2,500 and $3,000 commitments. The commission decided that two traffic signals will be needed for north‑ and south‑bound pedestrian crossings. The senior fair is scheduled for September 18, 2025 at the Senior Center.

• Approved August 19, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Decided two traffic signals are needed for north and south pedestrian crossings (no vote recorded)

Conservation Commission

The Commission is holding a dedicated meeting to review draft rules and regulations for Ordinance #1773. The body will discuss public comments and the merging of specific wetland protection sections.

• Discussion regarding Right of First Refusal for property on Cabot Road, Parcel ID 55R-8
• Review of merged sections for Buffer Zone and Wetland Protection Zone (§4.10)
• Review of combined sections for Seasonal Wetlands (§4.9) and Isolated Vegetated Wetlands (§4.6)

Westfield Cultural Council

The Westfield Cultural Council will meet to review treasurer reports and survey results. Members will discuss staffing for the Farmer’s Market and participation in the Tree Jubilee. The council will also determine the start time for a voting meeting scheduled for November 18.

• Review of survey results
• Farmer’s Market staffing
• Tree Jubilee participation
• Scheduling for November 18 voting meeting
• Bookmark update

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will review fund applications for two historic church projects. The body will also discuss open projects and potential future initiatives.

• Central Baptist Church stained glass windows (115 Elm St.): $63,670
• Church of the Atonement accessibility (36 Court St.): $187,058
• American Legion Building funding closeout report
• Discussion of YMCA Camp Shepard pool/bathhouse
• Discussion of Pine Hill Cemetery hazard tree removal

The Westfield Community Preservation Committee approved $45,000 for a triage of stained‑glass window repairs at Central Baptist Church and $115,000 for an elevator upgrade at the Church of the Atonement. Both motions passed unanimously. The Central Baptist project will be funded from the committee’s undesignated pool.

• Approved $45,000 for Central Baptist Church stained‑glass window triage (unanimous)
• Approved $115,000 for Church of the Atonement elevator accessibility upgrade (unanimous)
• Designated Central Baptist Church funding to the undesignated fund pool

Westfield Airport Commission

The Westfield Airport Commission will meet to approve minutes, introduce a new airport manager, and accept three grants totaling over $2.1 million for tree mitigation, aeronautical studies, and a residential sound insulation program.

• Introduction of New Airport Manager Daniel Shearer
• Acceptance of $905,730.00 Twy B Tree Mitigation grant
• Acceptance of $350,930.00 Aeronautical Study grant
• Acceptance of $853,480.00 Residential Sound Insulation Program grant
• Taxiway B Project Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Planning

The commission approved the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to accept three grant proposals: a $905,730 tree‑mitigation grant for Taxiway B, a $350,930 aeronautical study grant, and an $853,480 residential sound‑insulation grant. The meeting was adjourned at 6:47 p.m.

• Approved July 10, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Accepted Taxiway B tree mitigation grant $905,730.00 (3‑0)
• Accepted aeronautical study grant $350,930.00 (3‑0)
• Accepted residential sound insulation grant $853,480.00 (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:47 p.m. (3‑0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss a City Council referral regarding local regulations for sewer availability and septic systems. The meeting also includes updates on the landfill cap repair and transfer station overflow bags.

• Review of local regulations regarding sewer availability and septic systems
• Landfill cap repair update
• Transfer station overflow bags update
• Retail tobacco inspections report
• Shared Service Agreement update

The Board approved the August 13, 2025 meeting minutes after a unanimous vote. It then voted to table the reinstatement of the previous drinking‑water protection regulation until more data is available. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Tabled reinstatement of drinking water protection regulation (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Westfield Redevelopment Authority

The Westfield Redevelopment Authority will consider several routine items, including approval of the August 20, 2025 meeting minutes and reports from its financial committee and executive director. The board will discuss and vote to accept the final report from the BSC Group concerning the Westfield South Riverfront Area Plan. The meeting will also address next steps, new business, and old business before adjourning.

• Approve minutes of the August 20, 2025 meeting
• Review WRA Financial Summary report
• Hear report from the Executive Director
• Discussion and vote to accept the final report of the BSC Group on the Westfield South Riverfront Area Plan
• Consider next steps, new business, and old business items

The Authority voted to accept the BSC Group’s final report on the Westfield South Riverfront Area Plan. The motion, moved by Member Woodson and seconded by Member Morin, passed with all members in favor. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:37 a.m. by unanimous consent.

• Accepted BSC Group final riverfront area plan report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:37 a.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a Notice of Intent (DEP File #333-0873) to replace three culverts on Honey Pot Road within a buffer zone and adjacent wetlands. It will also address an enforcement order for 74 Russellville Road (Liberty Manor) and a request for a certificate of compliance for the Little River Levee Culvert Repair (DEP File #333-0834). Additionally, the commission will discuss new application deadlines and continue reviewing draft rules for Ordinance #1773.

• Honey Pot Road – replacement of three culverts (DEP File #333-0873)
• Enforcement order for 74 Russellville Road – Liberty Manor
• Certificate of compliance request for Little River Levee Culvert Repair (DEP File #333-0834)
• Review schedule for draft rules and regulations to Ordinance #1773
• Adoption of new policy deadlines for commission applications

The Conservation Commission closed the public hearing on the Honey Pot Road project and voted to issue an Order of Conditions approving the replacement of three culverts, pending Natural Heritage of Endangered Species Program conditions. A Certificate of Compliance was approved for the Little River Levee culvert repair. The Commission also approved a first‑warning letter to Liberty Manor for missing required documentation. Minutes from the August 12, August 26 and September 2 meetings were approved.

• Closed public hearing on Honey Pot Road project (All In Favor)
• Approved Order of Conditions for Honey Pot Road culvert replacement, contingent on NHESP conditions (All In Favor)
• Took item 5A (Little River Levee Culvert Repair) out of order (All In Favor)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for Little River Levee Culvert Repair (All In Favor)
• Approved first‑warning letter to Liberty Manor requiring missing materials by week’s end (All In Favor)
• Approved minutes of August 12, 2025 (EF‑yes, CG‑yes, KW‑yes, LD‑yes, RF‑yes, JG‑abstained)
• Approved minutes of August 26, 2025 (EF‑abstained, CG‑yes, KW‑abstained, LD‑yes, RF‑yes, JG‑yes)
• Approved minutes of September 2, 2025 (All In Favor)

Water Commission

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss service requirements for Accessory Dwelling Units and maintenance of grinder pumps. The board may vote on drought status and water restrictions. Other agenda items include rates for Heritage Park and The Arbors.

• Possible vote on Drought Status and Water Restrictions
• Rates for Heritage Park and The Arbors with Jay Jasper of Cooperative Development Institute
• Service requirements for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Grinder Pump Maintenance Responsibilities
• Town of Southwick customers discussion

The commission approved the July 1, 2025 minutes after a 3‑0 vote. It agreed to review a rate‑relief letter from the Arbor and Heritage associations at the next meeting. The commission also agreed that accessory dwelling units should have separate service lines and meters where state rules permit. Additionally, the commission accepted a draft resolution on grinder‑pump maintenance responsibilities.

• Approved July 1, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Agreed to review rate‑relief letter from Arbor and Heritage associations at next meeting
• Agreed ADUs should require separate service line and meter if allowed by state regulations
• Accepted draft resolution on grinder‑pump maintenance responsibilities
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Fire Commission

The Fire Commission will meet to discuss a plan of action for filling the Fire Chief's position following Chief Egloff's retirement next spring. The body will also consider a committee to implement MRI recommendations. An executive session is scheduled for grievance hearings involving Westfield Firefighters Local 1111.

• Discussion and potential vote on a plan to fill the Fire Chief position
• Discussion on a committee to implement MRI recommendations
• Grievance hearings for 2025-01 and 2025-02 filed by Westfield Firefighters Local 1111

The Westfield Fire Commission accepted the August 4, 2025 meeting minutes by a 2‑0 vote. They voted 2‑0 to table the discussion on the fire chief hiring process until the October meeting. They also voted 2‑0 to move into executive session to hear Grievance 2025‑01 and 2025‑02.

• Accepted August 4, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Tabled fire chief hiring discussion until October meeting (2-0)
• Moved into executive session for grievance hearings (2-0)

License Commission

The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from August 11, 2025. It then approved and supported a home‑rule petition to convert the seasonal all‑alcohol license at Pleasant Street Market to an annual license. The Commission also approved a one‑day wine and malt license for Great Awakening Brewing Company’s October 25, 2025 event, and approved two Westfield State University events. Several police incident reports were filed and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved August 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved/support home‑rule petition to convert seasonal to annual all‑alcohol license for Pleasant Street Market (unanimous)
• Approved Great Awakening Brewing Company one‑day wine/malt license for Oct 25, 2025 event (unanimous, pending AJ Stables letter)
• Approved Westfield State University karaoke bar event on Sep 26, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Westfield State University family weekend event on Sep 27, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved receipt of change‑of‑ownership notice for Eastern Vehicle Recycling, Inc. (unanimous)
• Filed police incident report #25-27785 (unanimous)
• Filed police incident report #25-28853 (unanimous)

Health Plan Trust

The board approved the April 9, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0) and accepted the resignation of Alison Frary as the Mayor representative Trustee (4‑0). Anne Larkham was then appointed to replace her (4‑0). Trustees elected Matthew Barnes as Secretary (5‑0) and Vicki Moro as Chairperson (5‑0). The meeting was adjourned at 3:12 PM (5‑0). No financial actions were decided.

• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Accepted resignation of Alison Frary as Mayor representative Trustee (4-0)
• Appointed Anne Larkham as Mayor representative Trustee (4-0)
• Elected Matthew Barnes as Secretary (5-0)
• Elected Vicki Moro as Chairperson (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:12 PM (5-0)

Council On Aging

The board approved the July 14, 2025 meeting minutes with a 7-0 vote. No new business or policy revisions were adopted. The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous 7-0 vote.

• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (7-0)

Police Commission

The Police Commission meeting scheduled for September 8, 2025, has been canceled. The next meeting is rescheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 5:30 pm in Council Chambers.

City Council

The Council unanimously accepted an $853,480 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation FAA for noise mitigation at Westfield‑Barnes Airport. It approved a special permit, site plan and stormwater permit for a truck terminal at 160 Falcon Drive, passing 11‑2, and also approved a fortune‑teller license for Sacred Ember’s Healing Arts. The Council also passed the order calling the November 4, 2025 city election, suspended its own rules to act on agenda items, and referred several petitions and licensing applications to the appropriate committees.

• Accepted $853,480 FAA grant for airport noise mitigation (13‑0)
• Approved special permit, site plan and stormwater permit for truck terminal at 160 Falcon Drive (11‑2)
• Approved annual fortune‑teller license for Sacred Ember's Healing Arts (voice vote)
• Passed city election order to be ordained (13‑0)
• Suspended City Council rules to act on agenda items (voice vote)
• Referred Belvedere Gardens eminent‑domain petition to multiple committees (voice vote)
• Referred Jimbob Aviation gas‑storage license application to Zoning, Planning and Development Committee (voice vote)
• Referred four zoning petitions (Ridgeway Ave, 265 Union St, 2 & 0 Cycle St, family day‑care deregulation) to Zoning, Planning and Development Committee (voice vote)

Municipal Light Board

The Municipal Light Board voted to accept the minutes from the July 2, 2025 regular and executive sessions, passing the motion 6‑1. A separate motion to accept the July 15, 2025 special regular session minutes also passed 6‑1. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted July 2, 2025 regular and executive session minutes (6‑1)
• Accepted July 15, 2025 special regular session minutes (6‑1)

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee will consider the order for the November 4, 2025, biennial city election. The body will also discuss several motions to begin eminent domain processes for five specific roads and review updates to city ordinances.

• Order calling the Biennial City Election for November 4, 2025
• Eminent domain motions for Scenic Road, Pheasant Drive, Michael Drive, Victoria Circle, and Woodsong Road
• Ordinance amendment regarding the Appointment of City Assessor
• Easements from Nathaniel Hill Realty, LLC and Shaker Village Condominium Association for Falley Drive subdivision
• Traffic ordinance amendments for a stop intersection at Greylock Street and Franklin Street and handicapped parking rules

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee approved the order calling the Biennial City Election for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, and accepted easements for utilities in the Nathaniel Hill subdivision. It kept a land‑conversion notice and multiple eminent‑domain proposals in committee, and adopted two traffic‑related ordinance amendments concerning a new stop sign and a temporary handicapped‑parking spot.

• Approved City Clerk Kaitlyn Bruce’s order calling the Biennial City Election for Nov 4, 2025 (2‑0)
• Approved minutes of the July 2, 2025 meeting (2‑0)
• Accepted easements and resolutions for utilities in the Nathaniel Hill subdivision off Falley Drive (3‑0)
• Kept the William F. Reed Trust land‑conversion notice in committee (3‑0)
• Left the eminent domain process for Scenic Road in committee (3‑0)
• Left the eminent domain process for Pheasant Drive in committee (3‑0)
• Adopted ordinance amendment adding a stop sign at Greylock St & Franklin St (3‑0)
• Adopted ordinance amendment adding a temporary handicapped‑parking spot condition (3‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved special permits for 17 Clark Street, 120 Old Stage Road, and an accessory dwelling unit at 197 North Road, each by a 3‑0 vote. It also approved a site‑plan for an ADU at 255 Southampton Road by a 3‑0 vote. The board granted the applicant at 40 King Street permission to withdraw his variance request without prejudice, also by unanimous consent.

• Approved Special Permit for 17 Clark Street (3‑0 vote)
• Approved Special Permit for 120 Old Stage Road (3‑0 vote)
• Approved Special Permit for ADU at 197 North Road (3‑0 vote)
• Approved Site‑Plan for ADU at 255 Southampton Road (3‑0 vote)
• Approved withdrawal without prejudice of variance request at 40 King Street (unanimous)
• Closed hearing for Matthew Hartley's garage expansion (unanimous)
• Closed hearing for 248 Birch Road special permit (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board waived and approved the July 23, 2025 minutes with a 2‑0 vote. It also approved the placement of university‑created banners on utility poles along Route 10/202 from the Turnpike to Franklin Street, also by a 2‑0 vote. Discussions on the Court House mural retaining wall and on Accessory Dwelling Unit service requirements were tabled for the October meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7:48 PM.

• Waived and approved July 23 2025 minutes (vote 2‑0)
• Approved university banners on Route 10/202 utility poles (vote 2‑0)
• Tabled Court House mural retaining wall discussion (no vote)
• Tabled ADU service requirements discussion; Director to draft policy for October (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:48 PM (motion passed)

Planning Board

The board approved the minutes from the August 19 meeting. It approved two amendment notices of restriction (ANRs) for 91‑117 Squawfield Road and 25 Cara Lane. The board voted to accept Cardinal Lane and Maplewood Avenue as public ways. It also approved a request for investigation of alleged violations at 32 Birch Road.

• Approved August 19 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Approved ANR for 91‑117 Squawfield Rd./Burke (All in favor)
• Approved ANR for 25 Cara Lane (All in favor)
• Recommended accepting Cardinal Lane as a public way (All in favor)
• Recommended accepting Maplewood Avenue as a public way (All in favor)
• Approved request for investigation of 32 Birch Rd. by Conservation Director, Police, Health Director, Ward Councilor Onyski, Councilor Mello, Zoning Enforcement Officer and Building (All in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (All in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review specific sections of the draft Wetlands Protection Ordinance #1773. The meeting is dedicated to this review, with sections covering buffer zones, wetland protection zones, and seasonal wetlands.

• Review of §4.10 Buffer Zone
• Review of §4.11 Wetland Protection Zone
• Review of §4.9 Seasonal Wetlands
• Review of §4.6 Isolated Vegetated Wetlands
• Review of §4.5 General Performance Standards

The Conservation Commission approved revisions to the draft rules for Ordinance #1773. They removed a redundant exemption line, rearranged performance standards to follow the MACC model, and incorporated the Wetland Protection Zone (WPZ) into §4.10 as a Buffer Zone Performance Standard. The final language for the WPZ will be drafted for further review at the September 9, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that passed.

• Removed redundant exemption line from draft rules (adopted)
• Rearranged performance standards according to MACC model (adopted)
• Incorporated WPZ into §4.10 as a Buffer Zone Performance Standard (adopted)
• Defined WPZ minimum 50‑foot distance, up to 100‑foot buffer (adopted)
• Set requirement for double‑area restoration/mitigation for WPZ disturbances (adopted)
• Deferred final WPZ language to September 9, 2025 meeting for further review (tabled)
• Motion to adjourn passed (AIF)

City Council Zoning, Planning and Development Committee

The Zoning, Planning and Development Committee accepted the minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting by a 2‑0 vote. The committee reviewed an application for a special permit, site plan and stormwater permit for a truck terminal at 160 Falcon Drive, discussing credit land and restriction options. Councilor Allie moved to amend the draft special permit by deleting item 3 under Conditions, and a vote was called, but the minutes do not record the result.

• Accepted June 23, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Motion to amend draft special permit presented; vote outcome not recorded

Retirement Board

The board voted to retain the incumbent managers for the Domestic Small Cap Equity Growth/Value portfolio (Loomis Small Cap Value, Loomis Small Cap Growth, Wasatch Small Cap Value). It also approved the bills and warrants totaling $2,330,673.14, accepted retirement applications and figures for several members, and admitted new members to the schools and fire categories. Refunds and transfers for two members were authorized, and the minutes of prior meetings were approved. The next meeting is tentatively set for September 25, 2025.

• Rehire incumbents Loomis Small Cap Value, Loomis Small Cap Growth, Wasatch Small Cap Value – Approved (3-0)
• Approve bills and warrants totaling $2,330,673.14 – Approved (3-0)
• Approve minutes of July 24 and August 18, 2025 meetings – Approved (3-0)
• Accept retirement application of Russell Miller – Approved (3-0)
• Approve retirement figures for Lori Bernier ($51,569.64/yr), Kurt Dahdah ($149,074.61/yr), Jill Kordana ($14,563.44/yr) – Approved (3-0)
• Accept new members: Scott Barrett, Oleksii Khodakivskyi, Michael Milanczuk (Schools); Seth Longey, George Mannix, Jayden Rodriguez (Fire) – Approved (3-0)
• Grant refund to Neal Colburn (Fire) and transfer for Brenda Lelievre (Schools) – Approved (3-0)
• Adjourn meeting – Approved (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The commission re‑issued the Order of Conditions for 587 East Main Street. It approved a Certificate of Compliance for 485 East Main Street. It adopted a motion directing the violator at Liberty Manor to verify pipe connections, propose restoration and replication plans, clean stormwater outfalls, and install signage, all to be completed by September 9, 2025. Items for Honey Pot Road and the 74 Russellville Road enforcement order were continued, and the meeting was recessed, reconvened, and adjourned.

• Re‑issued Order of Conditions for 587 East Main Street (AIF)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 485 East Main Street (AIF)
• Continued Honey Pot Road culvert replacement item until Sep 9 2025 (AIF)
• Continued 74 Russellville Road enforcement order item (AIF)
• Directed violator to verify pipe hydrologic connections and report by Sep 9 2025 (AIF)
• Directed violator to propose 25‑ft buffer restoration plan by Sep 9 2025 (AIF)
• Directed violator to propose 100‑ft buffer restoration and wetland replication plans by Sep 9 2025 (AIF)
• Directed violator to clean stormwater riprap dishes and develop maintenance plan by Sep 9 2025 (AIF)

Westfield Housing Authority

The Westfield Housing Authority unanimously approved payments for all bills and accepted multiple construction completions and low‑bid contracts, including a $7,360 roof change order and a $127,114 contract for CPA basement windows. It also set the next board meeting for October 7, 2025 at 5:30 pm. All votes were 5‑0 in favor.

• Approved Change Order #1 for roof/chimneys ($7,360.00) and final payment $30,772.19 to Cornerstone Builders (5‑0)
• Approved final retainage payment $5,487.50 to Larochelle Construction for Dolan Windows (5‑0)
• Approved low‑bid contract $127,114.00 to Sovereign Builders for CPA basement windows (5‑0)
• Approved low‑bid contract $109,700.00 to Advanced Building Components for 306 Elm Street porch enclosure (5‑0)
• Approved payment of all bills for the Revolving Account (5‑0)
• Approved payment of all bills for Project 400‑1 (5‑0)
• Approved payment of all bills for Project 689‑C (5‑0)
• Scheduled next board meeting for Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 5:30 pm (5‑0)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding the proposed demolition of 12 West Silver Street. The body will also review a presentation from the Westfield Woman’s Club concerning new windows.

• Public hearing on proposed demolition of 12 West Silver Street
• Westfield Woman’s Club presentation for new windows
• National Registry of Historic Places (Wyben Schoolhouse)
• Historical House District Application
• Community Preservation Committee alternate

The commission invoked a 180‑day demolition delay for the unsafe 12 West Silver St. building, allowing time for a survey of potential historic artifacts. It approved a $850 payment to P.S. Construction for roof slate repairs on the One Room Schoolhouse. The Women’s Club was authorized to replace its historic windows, and two commissioners were nominated to the Community Preservation Committee.

• Invoked 180‑day demolition delay for 12 West Silver St. (unanimous)
• Approved $850 payment to P.S. Construction for schoolhouse roof repair (unanimous)
• Authorized Women’s Club to replace windows on its building (unanimous)
• Nominated Commissioner Palmer as representative and Commissioner Hollister as alternate to the Community Preservation Committee (unanimous)
• Accepted June meeting minutes with two abstentions (Thielen, MacMunn; motion carried)
• Moved Women’s Club presentation to next agenda (motion carried)
• Adjoined meeting adjournment at 8:42 p.m. (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review two federal aviation grants for the Westfield-Barnes Airport and a host community agreement for Westfield Ultra Premium, LLC. The meeting includes a public hearing for a building permit at 44 Greif Way and several license applications.

• FAA grants for Westfield-Barnes Airport totaling $905,730.00 and $350,930.00
• Host Community Agreement with Westfield Ultra Premium, LLC for cannabis operations
• Public hearing for Special Permit and Site Plan Approval at 44 Greif Way
• Transfer of $50,056.51 to AFSCME 35 Clerical Unit accounts
• Ordinance amendments for a stop intersection at Greylock Street and Franklin Street

The council accepted a $905,730 FAA grant and a $350,930 FAA grant for the Westfield‑Barnes Airport, each passing with 12 yes votes and one member absent. It also voted to suspend council rules to act on agenda items and adopted two resolutions accepting FY2025 Q3 ($503) and Q4 ($2,158) gift donations for the Council on Aging. Several items were referred to the Legislative Ordinance Committee, including a Model Host Community Agreement and an ordinance amendment for the City Assessor. All votes were unanimous among members present.

• Accepted $905,730 FAA grant for Westfield‑Barnes Airport (12 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent)
• Accepted $350,930 FAA grant for airport aeronautical study (12 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent)
• Suspended council rules to act on items (12 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent)
• Adopted FY2025 Q3 gift‑donations resolution ($503) for Council on Aging (12 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent)
• Adopted FY2025 Q4 gift‑donations resolution ($2,158) for Council on Aging (12 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent)
• Referred Model Host Community Agreement to Legislative Ordinance Committee (12 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent)
• Referred ordinance amendment for City Assessor to Legislative Ordinance Committee (12 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent)
• Referred Biennial City Election order to Legislative Ordinance Committee (12 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent)

City Council

The Westfield City Council will hold a public hearing to discuss a permit application for a lumber yard. The body is reviewing requests for a Special Permit, Site Plan Approval, and Stormwater Permit.

• Special Permit, Site Plan Approval, and Stormwater Permit application for Westlake Royal Building Products, Inc.
• Proposed lumber yard located at 44 Greif Way

Westfield Redevelopment Authority

The Authority voted to approve the minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Member Woodson, seconded by Member Morin, and passed with all members in favor. No other formal actions or votes were recorded during the session.

• Approved May 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals did not conduct a meeting because the advertised link failed. No votes or actions were taken. The public hearings originally on the agenda are now scheduled for September 3 in person, with new notices to be mailed.

Off-Street Parking Commission

The commission approved the June 25 minutes and voted to request a weekly summary of Mountain View’s work. It added a discussion of the meter machines to next month’s agenda. It unanimously approved the Community Picnic, the Overdose Awareness Vigil, and the free yoga sessions to be held on Elm Street Plaza. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved June 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Requested weekly summary of Mountain View work (unanimous)
• Added meter‑machine discussion to September agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Community Picnic at Elm Street Plaza on Sep 6 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Overdose Awareness Vigil at Elm Street Plaza on Aug 28 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved free yoga sessions in Elm Street Plaza (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings for a contractor's shop and retail development and an aviation fueling station. The board will also review a zoning amendment to allow Family Day Care Homes by-right.

• Special Permit/Site Plan/Stormwater Permit for NextGen Construction Service, LLC at 0 Southampton Rd.
• Site Plan Approval/Stormwater Permit amendment for Jimbob Aviation at 44 Airport Dr.
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment to allow Family Day Care Homes by-right
• Proposed ADU addition at 255 Southampton Rd.
• Notice of Intent to Sell Chapter 61A land at Cabot Rd./Parcel 55R-8

The board unanimously approved a Special Permit for NextGen Construction's contractor shop and retail development at 0 Southampton Road. It also approved an amendment to Jimbob Aviation's site plan for a fueling station at 44 Airport Dr, a minor change to the site plan at 99 Medeiros Way, and a recommendation to acquire Chapter 61A land on Cabot Rd. The board moved forward with a zoning ordinance amendment to allow family day‑care homes by right.

• Approved Special Permit for 0 Southampton Road (NextGen Construction) – unanimous vote
• Approved amendment to site plan/stormwater permit for Jimbob Aviation fueling station at 44 Airport Dr – unanimous vote
• Approved minor change to site plan/stormwater at 99 Medeiros Way – unanimous vote
• Recommended acquisition of Chapter 61A land at Cabot Rd/Parcel 55R-8 – unanimous vote
• Advanced zoning ordinance amendment to allow family day‑care homes by right – unanimous vote

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The Commission for Citizens with Disabilities approved the July 15, 2025 meeting minutes with a 6‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous 6‑0 vote. No public comments were received during the session.

• Approved July 15, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Retirement Board

The Westfield Retirement Board is holding a special meeting to conduct a disability application hearing for Keith Lemon of the Fire Department. The hearing will likely be held in executive session due to the discussion of personal medical records.

• Disability application hearing for Keith Lemon (Fire Department)

Police Commission

The Police Commission will hold a special meeting to address unfinished business regarding a denied education benefit for Officer Patrick Lusteg. The commission will also review reports from the Chief and Captain.

• Discussion of City denial of Officer Patrick Lusteg’s education benefit
• Chief’s Report
• Captain’s Report

The Westfield Police Commission voted to approve and release the minutes from the July 14, 2025 meeting. No other motions were decided; the remaining agenda items were discussed or left pending. The commission then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous yes votes)
• Motion to adjourn approved (unanimous yes votes)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve monthly abatement reports and discuss a Chapter 61A application. The board will also discuss a title change for the City Assessor and contract authorization. An executive session is scheduled to discuss abatement and exemption applications.

• Chapter 61A Application for 0 Montgomery Rd
• Approval of June and July monthly abatement/commitment reports
• Discussion on Ordinance Change for City Assessor Title
• Contract Authorization
• Executive session regarding Abatement and Exemption Applications

The Board accepted the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting. It approved the June and July abatement/commitment reports and accepted a Chapter 61A application for 0 Montgomery Rd. The Board signed a letter to Mayor McCabe requesting a change to the City Assessor ordinance and approved a Contract Authorization form allowing Assessor Brown to sign contracts for fiscal year 2026. The Board also entered an executive session.

• Accepted April 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Accepted June & July abatement/commitment reports
• Accepted Chapter 61A application for 0 Montgomery Rd
• Signed letter to Mayor McCabe requesting ordinance change
• Approved Contract Authorization for Assessor Brown to sign FY 2026 contracts
• Entered executive session

Board of Health

The Board of Health approved the June 18, 2025 meeting minutes and unanimously appointed the Massachusetts Health Officers Association as the city’s tobacco agent. The Board also agreed to provide a letter of support for the Westfield High School concession building toilet‑variance request. Additionally, Carrie Hildreth‑Fiordalice was appointed chair for the September 10, 2025 meeting, and the annual Transfer Station permit sale dates were left unchanged.

• Approved June 18, 2025 Board of Health minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Massachusetts Health Officers Association as tobacco agent for Westfield (unanimous)
• Provided Board letter of support for Westfield High School concession building toilet variance (signed by Chair)
• Decided not to change annual Transfer Station entrance permit sale dates (no vote)
• Appointed Carrie Hildreth‑Fiordalice as chair for September 10, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:56 p.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted to extend the public comment period for the draft Ordinance No. 1773 until the second draft is completed. It also required Liberty Manor to submit a written restoration/replication proposal for the unpermitted alteration by August 26, 2025. Additional actions included appointing Vice Chairman Grobe as acting Chair and continuing the Liberty Manor item to the same August date.

• Vice Chairman Grobe appointed acting Chair (All in favor)
• Liberty Manor to provide written restoration/replication proposal by Aug 26, 2025 (All in favor)
• Item on 74 Russellville Road continued to Aug 26, 2025 (All in favor)
• Public comment period for draft Ordinance No. 1773 extended indefinitely (All in favor)
• 5‑minute recess approved (All in favor)
• Meeting reconvened at 6:57 pm approved (All in favor)

License Commission

The License Commission will consider amendments to business names and managers for local establishments. The body is also reviewing multiple requests for one-day special liquor licenses for upcoming community events and fundraisers.

• DBA change for 76 Liquors, Inc. from 76 Discount Liquors to 76 Liquors
• Manager change for City Hotel of Westfield, Inc. at 43 Elm Street
• Entertainment license amendment for St. Rocco's Mens Club to add 3 golf simulators
• One-day liquor licenses for Westfield Fair, Westfield State University football games, and Westfield Woman's Club events
• Review of the License Commission Information Policy update

The License Commission approved the minutes from the May 12 and June 9 meetings. It approved a DBA name change for 76 Liquors, Inc., a manager change for City Hotel of Westfield, and an entertainment license amendment for St. Rocco’s Men’s Club. The board also approved several one‑day special alcohol permits for nonprofit events, including three Westfield Woman’s Club functions, a Genesis Spiritual Life wine tasting, and Tin Bridge Brewing at the Westfield Fair. Police incident reports were filed for seven cited establishments.

• Approved minutes for May 12 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for June 9 2025 (unanimous, Chairman Mowatt abstained)
• Approved DBA amendment for 76 Liquors, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved manager change for City Hotel of Westfield, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved entertainment license amendment for St. Rocco’s Men’s Club to add 3 golf simulators (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day special alcohol licenses for Westfield Woman’s Club events on Sep 18, Sep 20, Oct 3 2025 (unanimous, fee waived)
• Approved one‑day special alcohol license for Genesis Spiritual Life Conference Center wine tasting on Sep 5 2025 (unanimous, fee waived)
• Approved one‑day special alcohol license for Tin Bridge Brewing at Westfield Fair Aug 15‑17 2025 (unanimous, fee waived)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the June 9, 2025 meeting. A motion to accept a purchasing contract signed by Randall Brown and Scott Hathaway was passed. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved June 9, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Accepted purchasing contract for Randall Brown and Scott Hathaway (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Fire Commission

The commission accepted the June 9, 2025 fire department minutes (3‑0). It voted to create a committee to oversee implementation of the MRI report (3‑0). Conditional employment offers were granted to Wilfred Jonathan Fernandez Cintron and Michael Alexander Young for Firefighter/Basic EMT positions, each pending required tests and certifications (3‑0 each). The Head of Department Contract Signature Authorization form was updated to add Deputy Chief Patrick Kane Jr. as a backup signer (3‑0).

• Accepted June 9, 2025 fire department minutes (3‑0)
• Established MRI oversight committee with union representation (3‑0)
• Offered conditional hire to Wilfred Jonathan Fernandez Cintron (3‑0)
• Offered conditional hire to Michael Alexander Young (3‑0)
• Updated Head of Department Contract Signature Authorization form (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (3‑0)

Retirement Board

The board entered and later exited an executive session to discuss personal medical records. It accepted recommended investment changes, reducing $2 million from the SSGA MSCI EAFE Index and adding $2 million to the SSGA Emerging Markets Index. The board approved bills and warrants, accepted retirement applications, approved retirement figures for several members, added new members, and authorized listed refunds and transfers. The meeting was adjourned at 2:52 pm.

• Entered executive session at 2:02 pm (motion passed)
• Returned from executive session at 2:31 pm (motion passed)
• Accepted recommended investment changes (motion passed)
• Approved bills and warrants as presented (motion passed)
• Accepted retirement applications for three members (motion passed)
• Approved retirement figures for multiple members (motion passed)
• Accepted new members into the system (motion passed)
• Granted listed refunds and transfers with interest where required (motion passed)

Board of Public Works

The Board voted 2:0 to approve the installation of five solar‑system walk signs on the bike trail. It also voted 2:0 to designate Francis Cain and Casey Berube as full signing authorities. A 2:0 vote approved the new opt‑in/opt‑out trash and recycling program rules and forms. The Court House mural proposal was deferred pending ownership information.

• Approved minutes for May 6 and June 3, 2025 (2:0)
• Approved installation of five solar walk signs on bike trail (2:0)
• Approved appointment of Francis Cain and Casey Berube as designated signers (2:0)
• Approved opt‑in/opt‑out trash‑recycling program rules and form process (2:0)
• Deferred Court House mural on retaining wall pending additional information (open item)

City Council

The council referred the mayor’s communication item to the Finance Committee. It accepted four State 911 grants totaling $1,395,173.09 and approved junk dealer and collector licenses for two businesses. It also passed second‑reading votes on a $45 million police‑station bond, a parcel‑transfer order, and a parking‑ordinance amendment.

• Referred mayor’s communication item to Finance Committee – 10 Yes, 3 Absent
• Accepted four State 911 grants totaling $1,395,173.09 – 10 Yes, 3 Absent
• Approved junk dealer and collector licenses for Jupe’s Vintage Things and Bomb Eclectic – 10 Yes, 3 Absent
• Second reading passed for $45,000,000 police station bond order – 10 Yes, 3 Absent
• Second reading passed for parcel‑transfer order on Casimir Street and Parkside Avenue – 10 Yes, 3 Absent
• Second reading passed for parking ordinance amendment adding crosswalk and street restrictions – 10 Yes, 3 Absent

Municipal Light Board

The Municipal Light Board voted to accept the General Manager's Section 19 conflict‑of‑interest disclosure form, with a 6‑1 vote. The motion was made by Commissioner Goyette and seconded by Commissioner Kelleher. The board then adjourned the meeting, also by a 6‑1 vote.

• Accepted Section 19 conflict‑of‑interest disclosure form (6‑1)
• Adjourned the meeting (6‑1)

Planning Board

The Board approved the June 17 minutes and then voted to send a negative recommendation to the Council for the proposed change of 44 Tannery Road from Rural Residential to Commercial A. The hearing was formally closed and the special‑permit request for 0 Southampton Rd was continued to the August 19 meeting. Additional motions to attach the minutes to the Council recommendation and to adjourn were also approved.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Negative recommendation for rezoning 44 Tannery Rd to Commercial A (5-0)
• Motion to include meeting minutes with Council recommendation (5-0)
• Motion to close the rezoning hearing (5-0)
• Motion to continue special‑permit request for 0 Southampton Rd to Aug 19 (5-0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (5-0)

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The commission voted 4‑0 to accept the June 17, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to adjourn the July 15 meeting also passed unanimously (4‑0). No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Westfield Housing Authority

The Westfield Housing Authority elected its officers, approved several outstanding bills, set the next meeting date, and approved a proprietary bidder for screen doors and a three-year legal services contract. All votes were unanimous (4‑0).

• Elected Commissioner Murphy as Chairperson (unanimous 4‑0)
• Elected Commissioner Mulligan as Vice Chairperson (unanimous 4‑0)
• Elected Commissioner Murray as Treasurer (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved payment of all Revolving Account bills (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved payment of all Project 400‑C bills (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved payment of all Project 689‑C bills (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved Hampton Door (Tiger Wire) as proprietary bidder for screen doors at Ely apartments (unanimous 4‑0)
• Approved three-year legal services contract with Powers Law Group retroactive to April 1 2025 (unanimous 4‑0)

Council On Aging

The council approved the May 12, 2025 meeting minutes with a 6‑0 vote. It then adopted an amended pet policy that permits other animals in the senior center, also by a 6‑0 vote. All other items were informational updates, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Adopted amended pet policy allowing other animals (6-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (6-0)

Police Commission

The commission unanimously approved and released the May 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved the annual city Contract Signature Authorization Form. The discussion on Officer Patrick Lusteg’s education benefit was postponed to the next meeting. The next commission meeting was tentatively moved to August 18, 2025, and the session was adjourned at 6:10 pm.

• Approved and released May 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved annual city Contract Signature Authorization Form (unanimous)
• Postponed discussion on Officer Patrick Lusteg’s education benefit to next meeting (unanimous)
• Rescheduled next meeting to August 18, 2025 (tentative)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:10 pm (unanimous)

Westfield Airport Commission

The Westfield Airport Commission approved the June 10, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved Commissioner William Gonet and Commissioner Robert Gutowski as the contract signature authorities for fiscal year 2026. Updates on the 5 Star Hangar, Gulfstream fire‑alarm installation, and Air Methods roof quotes were shared, but no actions were taken on those items. The meeting was adjourned at 6:36 p.m.

• Approved June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Approved Commissioner Gonet and Commissioner Gutowski as FY2026 contract signature authorities (3‑0)
• Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting (3‑0)

Conservation Commission

The commission voted to issue an Order of Conditions with special conditions for the proposed residential driveway at 229 Union Street. The motion passed unanimously (Robert Florek, Edward Finnie, Kathryn Weglarz, Lauren DiCarlo, Joseph Giffune all voted yes). The commission also approved the minutes from the June 24, 2025 meeting, with one abstention and the remaining members voting yes. The meeting was adjourned at 8:28 p.m.

• Issued Order of Conditions for 229 Union Street driveway project (5-0)
• Approved June 24, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-1 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:28 p.m. (5-0)

City Council

The Council accepted the reading of the June 23‑30, 2025 special meeting records. Four State 911 grant requests were referred to the Finance Committee and a planning easement item was referred to the Legislative Ordinance Committee and Law Department. A Bond Order for a $45,000,000 police station received its first reading and was moved to a second reading with 11 Yes votes and 2 absences. Two junk dealer/collector license petitions were closed and sent to the License Committee.

• Accepted reading of June 23‑30, 2025 special meeting records
• Referred four State 911 grant requests to Finance Committee
• Referred planning easement resolutions (item 5) to Legislative Ordinance Committee and Law Department
• Bond Order $45,000,000 for new police station given first reading and passed to second reading (Yes:11, Absent:2)
• Jupe's Vintage Things junk dealer/collector petition referred to License Committee
• Bomb Eclectic junk dealer/collector petition referred to License Committee

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee approved the minutes from May 14 and June 4, 2025. It voted to request a $45,000,000 bond for construction of a new police station and to send the request to the full Council with a positive recommendation. The committee also approved several other actions, including a fire‑personnel age‑limit petition, a $28,000 grant for the Open Space Plan, a land‑transfer of former St. Casimir’s Church property, and multiple ordinance amendments on parking and turn restrictions.

• Approved May 14 and June 4, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Voted to request $45,000,000 bond for new Police Station, to be sent to full Council with positive recommendation (3-0)
• Voted to submit resolution to amend fire‑personnel age limit to 39 years, to be sent to full Council with positive recommendation (3-0)
• Accepted $28,000 grant from Pioneer Valley Planning Commission for Open Space and Recreation Plan update (3-0)
• Accepted transfer of former St. Casimir's Church property at 38 Parkside Avenue to the City of Westfield (3-0)
• Accepted ordinance amendment adding parking prohibition within 20 ft of marked crosswalks (3-0)
• Sent ordinance amendment adding No Turn on Red from Western Avenue into Westfield State University lot to full Council with negative recommendation (3-0)
• Sent ordinance amendment adding parking prohibitions on Linden Avenue and Valley View Drive to full Council with positive recommendation (3-0)

Municipal Light Board

The Municipal Light Board voted to accept the minutes from the June 4, 2025 regular session. The motion passed with six ayes and one absent member. No other substantive actions were taken at this meeting.

• Accepted June 4, 2025 minutes (6-1)

City Council

The council approved the FY2026 budget as amended and moved $2,000,000 from Free Cash to the Fund Balance Reserve to reduce the tax rate. Council rules were suspended to act on agenda items, and the FY2026 Order of Appropriation for $163,835,809.27 was accepted. Several departmental appropriations—including water, sewerage, ambulance services, and gas/electric depreciation—were also approved. The meeting was adjourned at 6:25 PM.

• Approved FY2026 Budget (10-1)
• Approved $2M appropriation to reserve to lower tax rate (11-0)
• Suspended City Council rules (approval recorded)
• Accepted FY2026 Order of Appropriation $163,835,809.27 (11-0)
• Accepted Water Department appropriation $8,121,553.19 (10-1)
• Accepted Sewerage & Wastewater appropriation $6,795,499.34 (10-0)
• Accepted Ambulance Services appropriation $3,912,518.29 (11-0)
• Accepted Gas and Electric Depreciation appropriation $7,713,066.00 (11-0)

Retirement Board

The board voted to implement the recommended investment changes, reducing and adding specific fund allocations. It also approved the pending bills and warrants, accepted several retirement applications, and approved retirement payout figures. An evidentiary hearing for two disability applicants was scheduled for the July 24 meeting, and the FY 26 appropriation bill 1 was approved. New members were added to the system and listed refunds and transfers were granted.

• Approved recommended investment changes (vote passed)
• Approved bills and warrants as presented (vote passed)
• Accepted retirement applications for listed members (vote passed)
• Approved retirement payout figures for listed members (vote passed)
• Scheduled evidentiary hearing for two disability applicants at 7/24 meeting (vote passed)
• Approved FY 26 appropriation bill 1 and will submit for payment (vote passed)
• Accepted new members into the system (vote passed)
• Granted listed refunds and transfers with applicable interest (vote passed)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board accepted Matt Hartley's garage extension application and set a Zoom hearing for August 20. It also approved a special permit for an attached garage at 84 Barbara St., conditioning it on a 16‑foot side yard setback and design conformity. Both actions were approved unanimously.

• Accepted Matt Hartley's garage extension application and scheduled Zoom hearing for Aug 20 (all in favor)
• Approved special permit for 84 Barbara St. garage addition with 16' side yard setback and appearance conformity (Sullivan‑Yes, Webster‑Yes, Bitzas‑Yes)

Off-Street Parking Commission

The Off‑Street Parking Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 12, 2025 meeting, with Commissioner Gustafson abstaining. It also unanimously approved Allie Clark’s application (d/b/a The Good Dawg) for a food‑cart license at Elm Street Plaza and the Riverfront Lot, subject to a contingency. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:05 PM. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous; Gustafson abstained)
• Approved The Good Dawg food‑cart license for Elm Street Plaza and Riverfront Lot (unanimous, with contingency)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:05 PM (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The commission accepted the May meeting minutes and elected Commissioner Mike Ingraham as treasurer. Jen Theilen was approved to join the commission at the next meeting, and the commission adopted a smaller historic house sign design. Stone cleaning at the Old Burying Grounds was rescheduled to October 4, and a cemetery visit was set for August 20.

• Accepted May meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Elected Commissioner Mike Ingraham as Treasurer (motion carried)
• Approved Jen Theilen to start on the commission at the next meeting
• Rescheduled stone cleaning at Old Burying Grounds to October 4 (June 7 cancelled)
• Adopted smaller historic house sign design with rounded top
• Commissioner Palmer to meet with Athenaeum and Bruce Cortis on whip display
• Scheduled Mundale Cemetery visit for August 20 at 10 AM
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission adopted a Positive 2a Determination for the CSX Transportation right‑of‑way wetland boundaries. It issued a Negative 3 and Positive 5 Determination for the Medeiros Way gravel path project, adding four specific conditions. The Commission lifted the Enforcement Order for 300 Union Street and issued a Certificate of Compliance. It also approved an Order of Conditions for 300 Union Street that includes a $2,500 bond and a multi‑year wetland restoration and monitoring plan.

• Positive 2a Determination for CSX ROW wetland boundaries passed (unanimous)
• Negative 3 and Positive 5 Determination for Medeiros Way passed with four conditions
• Item 6B (300 Union St) taken out of order passed
• Enforcement Order for 300 Union St lifted passed (unanimous)
• Certificate of Compliance for 300 Union St issued passed (unanimous)
• Order of Conditions for 300 Union St approved with $2,500 bond and restoration schedule passed (unanimous)
• Public hearing for 300 Union St custom railings closed passed (unanimous)
• Public hearing for 222 Russellville Rd driveway closed passed (unanimous)

City Council

The council voted to cut $50,000 from the Water Maintenance Craftsman line, and the motion passed with eight Yes votes and three No votes. Three other budget cut motions – $24,000 from Highway Motor Equipment, $50,000 from Tree Climber, and $1,000,000 from Engineering Capital Outlay – were each defeated. The council also moved the FY‑2026 budget to a full‑council vote on June 30 and then adjourned.

• Cut $24,000 from Highway Motor Equipment Operator Line – motion failed (1 Yes, 9 No)
• Cut $50,000 from Tree Climber Line – motion failed (1 Yes, 9 No)
• Cut $50,000 from Water Maintenance Craftsman line – motion passed (8 Yes, 3 No)
• Cut $1,000,000 from Engineering Capital Outlay line – motion failed (4 Yes, 5 No)
• Move FY‑2026 budget to full Council vote on June 30 – motion passed (voice vote)
• Adjourn meeting – motion passed (voice vote)

City Council

The City Council approved $80,000 for the police indemnity account and $20,000 for the fire indemnity account. It adopted a resolution authorizing the city to enter into the Massachusetts Turnpike emergency responder contract amendment. Several items were referred to various committees, including a $45 million bond for a new police station and a grant for the Conservation Commission.

• Approved $80,000 police indemnity appropriation (12 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Approved $20,000 fire indemnity appropriation (12 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Adopted resolution for MassDOT emergency responder contract amendment (12 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Referred $45,000,000 police station bond order to Legislative, Ordinance, Law Dept, and Police (12 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Referred petition to amend fire personnel age restriction to Legislative, Ordinance, and Fire Chief (12 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Referred acceptance of $28,000 Pioneer Valley Planning Commission grant to Legislative, Ordinance, Conservation, and Law Dept (12 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Referred reappointment of Community Development Director to Personnel Action Committee (12 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Referred appointment of Cultural Council member to Personnel Action Committee (12 Yes, 1 Absent)

City Council

The only action taken was a motion by Councilor Harris to adjourn, which was approved. No substantive policy or budget decisions were made during this meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (motion by Councilor Harris)

City Council Zoning, Planning and Development Committee

The Zoning, Planning and Development Committee accepted the draft special permit for 81 Servistar Industrial Way and gave it a favorable referral to the City Council (3‑0). It also approved a zone change for part of 146 & 170 Main Street from Rural Residential to Residence C (3‑0). The committee adopted amendments expanding allowed uses in the Industrial A district (3‑0) and revised lot‑size and hen‑quantity limits for backyard chickens, referring the ordinance to the City Council (2‑0).

• Accepted draft special permit for 81 Servistar Industrial Way, favorable referral (3-0)
• Approved zone change of portion of 146 & 170 Main Street to Residence C, favorable referral (3-0)
• Amended Industrial A district to add medical/dental clinics, financial institutions, and small retail/services, favorable referral (3-0)
• Amended backyard chicken ordinance lot sizes and hen limits, favorable referral (2-0)

City Council Finance Committee

The committee first voted to remove a request for consideration from the table. It then approved an earmark of $35,397.01 from the FY26 Reserve for Future Salary Increases Account to fund the first‑year contract of the Successor Agreement with the Westfield Municipal Professional Employee's Association. The meeting was adjourned.

• Removed request for consideration and approval of $35,397.01 earmark from the table (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved $35,397.01 earmark from FY26 Reserve for Future Salary Increases Account (2-0, two members yes, one absent)
• Adjourned the meeting

Traffic Commission

The commission approved and released the minutes dated March 19, 2025. It rejected a 24‑hour heavy‑commercial‑vehicle exclusion on North Road. It approved installing a foldable handicap sign on Holland Avenue. It tabled the Lockhouse Road widening proposal and recommended a stop sign at Greylock Street and Franklin Street.

• Approved release of March 19, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Rejected 24‑hour truck exclusion on North Road (all in favor)
• Approved installation of foldable handicap sign on Holland Avenue (all in favor)
• Tabled Lockhouse Road widening proposal (all in favor)
• Recommended installation of stop sign at Greylock Street & Franklin Street (all in favor)

Board of Health

The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 28, 2025 meeting. It chose not to comment on the special permit request for a proposed truck terminal at 160 Falcon Drive. The Board also cancelled the scheduled July health‑program meeting. Monthly Health Department and Transfer Station bills were reviewed and signed.

• Approved May 28, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed and signed monthly Health Department and Transfer Station bills
• Declined to comment on special permit request for proposed truck terminal at 160 Falcon Drive
• Cancelled the July health‑program meeting
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved an amendment to DL Homes LLC’s special permit to allow a well instead of city water (6‑1 vote). It also approved a special permit for a family day‑care at 50 Shaker Road (7‑0 vote). The board accepted minor building changes for Popeyes on E Main Street and added 20 parking spaces at Westfield River Elementary as minor changes. Finally, the board agreed to send a positive recommendation to City Council on the truck‑terminal permit.

• Approved amendment to DL Homes Special Permit (6-1)
• Approved Special Permit for family day‑care at 50 Shaker Rd (7-0)
• Accepted Popeyes building changes as minor
• Accepted additional 20‑space parking at Westfield River Elementary as minor
• Board will send positive recommendation on truck‑terminal permit
• Approved minutes from May 20 meeting (unanimous)

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The commission approved the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting with a 4‑0 vote. A motion to add a fink to the commission information booklet also passed unanimously (4‑0). The meeting was then adjourned by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved May 20, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved addition of a fink to the commission information booklet (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

City Council Finance Committee

The committee reviewed an earmark of $35,397.01 from the FY26 Reserve to fund the first‑year contract increase with the Westfield Municipal Professional Employees Association. Councilor Bean moved to table the consideration until June 23, 2025 and Councilor Sullivan seconded the motion. The minutes do not record a vote outcome.

• Motion to table $35,397.01 earmark for FY26 salary increase (motion made, seconded; vote not recorded)

City Council Finance Committee

Councilor Bean moved to approve the Finance Committee minutes from May 27, June 9, June 10 and June 11, 2025. Councilor Sullivan seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously, 3‑0, with Councilors Figy, Sullivan and Bean voting yes. Other agenda items such as Animal Control, Police, Public Safety, and Fire budgets were discussed but no formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

• Approved Finance Committee minutes from May 27, June 9, June 10 and June 11 2025 (3‑0)

Westfield Airport Commission

The Westfield Airport Commission approved the May 8, 2025 meeting minutes. It accepted the FAA tower facility lease as amended by the city solicitor. Commissioners voted to extend Interim Airport Manager Jeff Lovejoy for an additional two months. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 8, 2025 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Accepted FAA tower lease amendment (3‑0)
• Extended Interim Airport Manager Jeff Lovejoy two months (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (3‑0)

City Council Finance Committee

The Finance Committee met on June 11, 2025 and discussed budget items, airport projects, health services, and other departmental updates. No approvals, denials, or policy changes were voted on. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that passed 3‑0.

• Motion to adjourn passed 3-0 (Bean moved, Sullivan seconded; Figy, Sullivan, Bean voted YES)

Westfield Redevelopment Authority

The Westfield Redevelopment Authority regular meeting scheduled for June 10, 2025 was not held because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were considered, and no actions or votes were recorded. Consequently, the Authority made no decisions at this time.

City Council Finance Committee

The committee examined multiple budget line items, including increases for the Facilities Director and Executive Assistants, and reductions for the Economic Development Officer and Litigation. Departments reported specific adjustments such as a $5,000 cut to the Litigation line and a decrease in the Law Department's Judgments line by $5,000. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes.

Board of Public Works

The Joint Board interviewed two candidates for Director of Public Works. A motion was made by Commissioner Pereira to appoint Randall Brown to the position. All five commissioners voted Yes, so the appointment was approved. No decision was made regarding the second candidate.

• Approved appointment of Randall Brown as Director of Public Works (5-0 vote)

Water Commission

The Water and Public Works Commissioners interviewed two candidates for the Director of Public Works position. A motion was made to appoint Randall Brown. All five commissioners present voted Yes, and the appointment was approved.

• Appointed Randall Brown as Director of Public Works (unanimous approval by all present commissioners)

Fire Commission

The Westfield Fire Commission accepted the fire department meeting minutes from April 14 and May 12, 2025. It then voted to make conditional employment offers to five candidates for four Firefighter/Basic EMT openings, with a fifth candidate as a backup. All motions passed unanimously (or with two‑yes votes on the May minutes).

• Accepted April 14, 2025 fire department minutes (3-0)
• Accepted May 12, 2025 fire department minutes (2-0, one abstain)
• Conditional offer to Aaron Seagrove for Firefighter/Basic EMT (3-0)
• Conditional offer to George Mannix for Firefighter/Basic EMT (3-0)
• Conditional offer to Jayden Rodriguez for Firefighter/Basic EMT (3-0)
• Conditional offer to Seth Longey for Firefighter/Basic EMT (3-0)
• Conditional offer to Kiele Lusignan as backup Firefighter/Basic EMT (3-0)

City Council Finance Committee

Councilor Sullivan moved to prioritize Flood Control over Engineering and the motion was seconded by Councilor Bean. The committee voted 3‑0 in favor, with Councilors Figy, Sullivan and Bean voting YES. No other formal actions were recorded in the meeting.

• Motion to move Flood Control ahead of Engineering passed 3‑0 (Figy, Sullivan, Bean YES)

City Council

The City Council voted to appropriate more than $2.5 million for health insurance benefits, snow‑and‑ice services, police equipment, fire education grants, and a $1 million airport noise‑mitigation grant. The FY 2026 budget was referred to the Finance Committee for further review. Council members also suspended the council rules to act on items received at the meeting.

• Approved $1,025,000 appropriation to Health Insurance Benefits Account (13‑0)
• Approved $1,004,232.79 appropriation to Public Works Snow and Ice Purchase Account (13‑0)
• Approved $409,917.64 appropriation to Public Works Snow and Ice Supplies Account (13‑0)
• Approved $120,818.53 appropriation for 15 new TASER 10 devices for Police (13‑0)
• Approved $4,100 grant to Fire Department for Student and Senior Fire Education (13‑0)
• Accepted $1,000,000 grant for Westfield‑Barnes Regional Airport noise mitigation (13‑0)
• Referred FY 2026 Budget to the Finance Committee (voice vote, all in favor)
• Suspended City Council rules to act on items received at the meeting (vote passed)

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the April 30, 2025 meeting. It voted to forward Councilor Beltrandi's petition for street acceptance of Big Wood Drive to the full City Council with a positive recommendation. The committee also accepted a resolution to receive a police service dog and related equipment valued at $13,325 from the Hometown Foundation, Inc. for the Westfield Police Department.

• Approved April 30, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Forwarded Big Wood Drive street‑acceptance petition to City Council with positive recommendation (3-0)
• Accepted donation of police service dog and equipment valued at $13,325 from Hometown Foundation (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board approved a variance granting a 10‑foot front‑yard setback for 0 Surrey Lane with conditions. It also approved a special permit and site‑plan for 161‑165 Meadow St, a water‑requirement variance for DL Homes on the 255 Southampton Rd. parcel, and a site‑plan for an accessory dwelling unit at 756 North Rd. A public hearing was scheduled for the garage addition at 84 Barbara St on June 25, 2025.

• Approved 10‑ft front‑yard setback variance for 0 Surrey Lane (3‑0 vote)
• Approved special permit/site‑plan for 161‑165 Meadow St (unanimous)
• Approved water‑requirement variance for DL Homes, LLC (4‑0 vote)
• Approved site‑plan for accessory dwelling unit at 756 North Rd (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for garage addition at 84 Barbara St on June 25, 2025

Municipal Light Board

The Municipal Light Board approved the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting. It voted unanimously to add one year to the General Manager’s contract, extending it to Dec 31 2029. The board then unanimously adjourned the meeting.

• Approved May 7, 2025 minutes (6‑0)
• Extended General Manager contract by one year to Dec 31 2029 (7‑0)
• Waived the August 6, 2025 board meeting (unanimous agreement)
• Adjourned the regular meeting (7‑0)

Westfield Redevelopment Authority

The Westfield Redevelopment Authority regular meeting scheduled for June 3, 2025 was not held because a quorum was not present. Consequently, no actions were approved, denied, or postponed.

Board of Public Works

The Board voted 3‑0 to approve a refund in place of a credit on the combined utility bill for 0 Middle Road. It also voted 3‑0 to appoint Matthew DeGray as the primary authorized signer and Alex Fagnand as the secondary for accounts payable and other correspondence. The Board unanimously recommended that the municipal emergency snow parking lot on Casimir Street be included in the sale of the church. Finally, the Board voted 3‑0 to cancel the regular public works meeting for August.

• Approved refund for 0 Middle Road (3-0)
• Appointed Matthew DeGray primary signer, Alex Fagnand secondary (3-0)
• Recommended including Casimir St snow lot in church sale (3-0)
• Cancelled August public works meeting (3-0)

Water Commission

The commission approved a check refund of $821.25 to the owner of 0 Middle Road. It also approved a $779.90 interest abatement for the water bill at 24 Saint Pierre’s Lane. Commissioners appointed Joseph Popielarczyk as the designee to enact water‑use restrictions between meetings. The board signed schedules for bills payable and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved $821.25 refund via check for 0 Middle Road (3-0)
• Approved $779.90 interest abatement for 24 Saint Pierre’s Lane (3-0)
• Appointed Commissioner Joseph Popielarczyk as designee for water‑use restrictions (3-0)
• All commissioners signed schedules for bills payable
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission did not adopt or reject any rules or regulations. It announced that public comments on the draft Rules and Regulations will be accepted through July 7, 2025, and the matter will be revisited at a future regular meeting. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Accepted public comments on draft Rules and Regulations until July 7 2025
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote: EF, JP, CG, KW, RF, LD, JG)

City Council Zoning, Planning and Development Committee

The committee accepted the minutes from April 14 and April 30, 2025. It voted to refer the zone change request for 0 Lockhouse Road from Industrial A to Residence C to the City Council. It also voted to refer the zone change request for 0.5 acres of 66 Holyoke Road from Residence B to Business B to the City Council. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted April 14 & April 30, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Referred Lockhouse Road zone change (Industrial A to Residence C) to City Council (2-0)
• Referred 66 Holyoke Road zone change (Residence B to Business B) to City Council (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Board of Health

The board approved the April 16 and April 23 meeting minutes and increased the Transfer Station entrance permit fee to $35 annually. It also hired a new health inspector, reassigned a public health nurse, and postponed the June meeting to June 18, 2025.

• Approved April 16 and April 23 meeting minutes (3‑yes)
• Closed public hearing on Transfer Station fee (3‑yes)
• Increased Transfer Station entrance permit fee to $35 (3‑yes)
• Hired Diana Rodriguez as Health Inspector (no vote recorded)
• Reassigned Public Health Nurse Evelyn Bristol to City Hall (no vote recorded)
• Postponed June Board of Health meeting to June 18, 2025 (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:45 p.m. (3‑yes)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved an Order of Conditions with a $3,000 bond for the contractor yard and tractor‑trailer storage project at 81 Servistar Industrial Way. The public hearing on that project was also closed by unanimous vote. Additional unanimous actions included issuing a $1,000 bond Order of Conditions for 0 Surrey Lane, issuing a Certificate of Compliance for 733 Montgomery Road contingent on erosion‑control removal, and lifting an enforcement order for 233 Union Street.

• Issued Order of Conditions with $3,000 bond for 81 Servistar Industrial Way (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 81 Servistar Industrial Way (unanimous)
• Issued Order of Conditions with $1,000 bond for 0 Surrey Lane (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance and released bond contingent on erosion‑control removal for 733 Montgomery Road (unanimous)
• Lifted Enforcement Order for 233 Union Street (unanimous)
• Continued 300 Union Street custom railing item to June 10 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued 74 Russellville Road item to June 10 2025 (unanimous)
• Amended silt‑fence removal due date to June 10 2025 for 74 Russellville Road (unanimous)

City Council Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved the May 12, 2025 meeting minutes. It authorized a $400,000 appropriation from the Community Preservation Undesignated FY25 account to fund rehabilitation of the Westfield Athenaeum. The committee accepted a $7,339,940 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration for the Westfield Gas and Electric Light Department. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (2-0 yes)
• Approved $400,000 appropriation for Athenaeum rehab (2-0 yes)
• Accepted $7,339,940 federal gas‑pipe safety grant (2-0 yes)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:53 PM (2-0 yes)

Retirement Board

The board approved awarding the Large Cap US Equity manager RFP to Columbia Threadneedle. It also approved the bills and warrants, accepted several retirement applications and a retirement figure for a fire employee, approved the 2024 annual statement, added new members, and authorized multiple refunds and transfers. All motions passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.

• Awarded Large Cap US Equity RFP to Columbia Threadneedle (5-0)
• Approved bills and warrants as presented (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Annual Statement and submitted to PERAC (5-0)
• Accepted retirement applications for four members (5-0)
• Approved retirement figure for Anthony Rix ($59,785.56/year) (5-0)
• Accepted new members Alodie Vega, Lara Marcoux, and Treasurer Linda Stone (5-0)
• Authorized listed refunds and transfers with interest after DOR review (5-0)
• Approved minutes of March 27, April 23, and executive session meetings (4-0 each, one member absent)

Water Commission

The commission voted to remove the current level one drought water‑use restrictions, leaving no restrictions in place. All three commissioners voted YES on the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 3:22 P.M. after a unanimous vote.

• Lift level one drought restrictions (Joseph Popielarczyk YES, Ronald Cole YES, John Niedzielski YES)
• Adjourn meeting at 3:22 P.M. (Joseph Popielarczyk YES, Ronald Cole YES, John Niedzielski YES)

Off-Street Parking Commission

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting. They approved a parking permit fee increase to $20 per month ($200 annually) effective July 1, 2025. They unanimously approved a food‑truck license for J.P. Macken Food Service, LLC to operate at Elm Street Plaza. The commission also approved the monthly bills and adjourned the meeting at 6:42 PM.

• Approved April 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved parking permit fee increase to $20/month effective July 1 2025
• Approved food‑truck license for J.P. Macken Food Service, LLC at Elm Street Plaza (unanimous)
• Approved monthly bills
• Adjourned meeting at 6:42 PM (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board unanimously sent positive recommendations for zoning map amendments at 146 & 170 Main St., 0 Lockhouse Rd., and 66 Holyoke Rd. It also approved a recommendation to expand uses in the Industrial A district and approved building elevations for 198 Lockhouse Rd. All motions passed with all members in favor.

• Sent positive recommendation for zoning amendment at 146 & 170 Main St. (Rural Res. & Res. B to Residence C) – approved (all in favor)
• Sent positive recommendation for zoning amendment at 0 Lockhouse Rd. (Industrial A to Residence C) – approved (all in favor)
• Sent positive recommendation for zoning amendment at 66 Holyoke Rd. (Residence B to Business B) – approved (all in favor)
• Sent positive recommendation to expand uses in Industrial A district with added qualifying language – approved (all in favor)
• Approved building elevations and phasing for 198 Lockhouse Rd. vehicle‑sales addition – approved (all in favor)
• Requested 264 Lockhouse Rd. applicant to widen berm and add eight evergreen trees – approved (all in favor)

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The commission voted to accept the April 15, 2025 meeting minutes after correcting the word “PURCHASED” to “BROUGHT,” with the motion passing 6‑0. The meeting also recorded the current fines and forfeits balance of $52,235 and noted upcoming events and updates. No other formal approvals or denials were made.

• Approved April 15, 2025 meeting minutes with word change (6-0)
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed (6-0)

Historical Commission

The commission accepted the April meeting minutes. It voted to find the Episcopal Church of the Atonement historically valuable to the City of Westfield. A $6,000 grant was awarded to continue the Canal Project’s National Historic Registry process, and stone cleaning at the Old Burying Grounds was scheduled for June 7. The meeting was adjourned.

• Accepted April meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Found Episcopal Church of the Atonement historically valuable (motion carried)
• Awarded $6,000 grant to Canal Project for National Registry work
• Scheduled stone cleaning at Old Burying Grounds on June 7
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

City Council

The council unanimously approved two appropriations totaling $98,402.23 for police cruiser computer upgrades and construction monitoring services for the new police station. They also reappointed City Clerk Kaitlyn Bruce for a term ending September 15, 2028. Several items were referred to committees, including a $7,339,940 DOT grant, a police service‑dog donation, and two council appointments, and the council suspended its rules to act on these items. The public hearing on the proposed backyard‑chicken zoning amendment was continued to the June 5 meeting.

• Approved $48,402.23 police cruiser computer replacement (13-0)
• Approved $50,000 construction monitoring services for new police station (13-0)
• Reappointed City Clerk Kaitlyn Bruce (13-0)
• Referred $7,339,940 DOT grant to Finance Committee
• Referred police service‑dog donation to Legislative Ordinance, Police, and Law Committees
• Referred two council appointments to Personnel Action Committee
• Suspended council rules to act on items (voice vote)
• Continued public hearing on backyard chicken ordinance to June 5

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The committee voted unanimously to accept a resolution allowing the mayor to execute documents for an Agricultural Preservation Restriction covering 16 acres on North Road. It also adopted state law provisions (Chapter 59, Section 5, Clauses 17F and 17E) that raise the senior citizen exemption amount and the asset limit based on the CPI, effective for fiscal years starting July 1, 2025. Additionally, the committee tabled the April 30, 2025 minutes and sent a positive recommendation to the full council to review Chapter 16 Section 16‑107.

• Tabled minutes of April 30, 2025 (3‑0)
• Accepted resolution authorizing mayor to execute Agricultural Preservation Restriction for 16 acres on North Road (3‑0)
• Sent motion to review/amend Chapter 16 Section 16‑107 to City Council with positive recommendation (3‑0)
• Adopted General Laws Chapter 59 Section 5 Clause 17F to increase senior exemption amount (3‑0)
• Adopted General Laws Chapter 59 Section 5 Clause 17E to increase senior asset limit (3‑0)

Westfield Redevelopment Authority

The Authority approved the minutes from its March 4, 2025 meeting, with all members voting in favor. No other formal actions were taken; the board discussed conceptual redevelopment plans for the riverfront district but did not adopt any proposals. The meeting also noted the city’s FY26 budget of $15,000 pending City Council approval and a possible $8,000‑$10,000 consultant for a slum and blight study.

• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes (all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved a positive determination confirming the wetland boundaries at 74 Russellville Road. Several items were postponed, with continuances set for May 27, 2025 or June 10, 2025. The Enforcement Order issued to Home Depot was retracted, and the order for 233 Union Street was amended to require removal of fill and a silt fence. All motions passed with unanimous support.

• Approved positive wetland boundary determination for 74 Russellville Road (5-0)
• Continued 300 Union Street NOI to May 27, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued 81 Servistar Industrial Way item pending law department response (5-0)
• Continued O Surrey Lane site‑visit item to May 27, 2025 (5-0)
• Retracted Enforcement Order for Home Depot (5-0)
• Amended Enforcement Order for 233 Union Street to require fill and silt‑fence removal, continued to May 27, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued 222 Russellville Road violation item to June 10, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued 240 Russellville Road violation item to June 10, 2025 (5-0)

Westfield Housing Authority

The Westfield Housing Authority board unanimously approved several financial actions, including large contracts and bill payments. It also retained the executive director for a year, appointed an alternate grievance officer, and set the next meeting date. All decisions were recorded with a 3‑to‑0 vote.

• Approved minutes of the April 17, 2025 special meeting (3-0)
• Approved payment of bills for the Revolving Account (3-0)
• Approved payment of bills for Project 400-1 (3-0)
• Approved payment of bills for Project 689-C (3-0)
• Approved contract to retain Executive Director Daniel J. Kelly for one year at $166,845 (3-0)
• Appointed Barbara Rogers as alternate Grievance Officer for three years (3-0)
• Awarded low bid $3,121,467 to M.L. Schmitt for the JFK Master Meter project (3-0)
• Authorized signing of Contract for Financial Assistance Amendment #16 for $3,303,050 (3-0)

Fire Commission

The Westfield Fire Commission approved the Civil Service Hybrid Pathway as the department's hiring process (2‑0 vote). Commissioners also elected Jeffrey Trant as the new Chair of the Commission (2‑0 vote). Acceptance of the April 14, 2025 meeting minutes was tabled for a future meeting, and the commission adjourned.

• Adopted Civil Service Hybrid Pathway for hiring (2-0)
• Appointed Jeffrey Trant as Chair of the Fire Commission (2-0)
• Tabled acceptance of April 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Adjourned the meeting (2-0)

License Commission

The commission unanimously approved several licensing actions, including a pledge amendment for Krisha Liquors, multiple amendments changing manager and ownership for Kismet Brewing Company, and a change of ownership for Laflamme’s Trucks & Equipment Sales. It also granted a series of one‑day event licenses, many with fee waivers, and filed three police incident reports. The next meeting is set for June 9, 2025.

• Approved minutes for April 14, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment pledge for Krisha Liquors Corp. d/b/a Westfield Liquors, 95 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved multiple amendments for Kismet Brewing Company, LLC, 66 South Broad Street (change manager, officers, ownership) (unanimous)
• Approved change of ownership for Laflamme’s Trucks & Equipment Sales, Inc., 82 Medeiros Way, Class 3 Auto Dealership License (unanimous, pending documents)
• Approved Section 14 one‑day license for Westfield Pride Inc., 105 Elm Street (wine & malt, fee waived) (unanimous)
• Approved Section 14 one‑day license for Bright Westfield, LLC disc golf tournament at Allen Tree Farm (malt only) (unanimous)
• Approved Section 14 one‑day license for Westfield State University Alumni Reunion, 577 Western Avenue (wine & malt, fee waived) (unanimous)
• Filed police incident reports #25-9761 (Shortstop Bar & Grill), #25-14184 (Gulf Mart), #25-15292 (Hutghi’s at the Nook) (unanimous)

Council On Aging

The board voted unanimously to elect Jim Liptak as Chair, Eric McDowell as Vice Chair, Ed Ekmalian as Treasurer, and Trudy Knowles as Secretary. The minutes from the February 10 and April 14 meetings were each approved by a 5‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned with a unanimous motion.

• Elected Jim Liptak as Chair (5-0)
• Elected Eric McDowell as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Elected Ed Ekmalian as Treasurer (5-0)
• Elected Trudy Knowles as Secretary (5-0)
• Approved February 10, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved April 14, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (5-0)

Police Commission

The commission approved the minutes from April 14, 2025. It accepted Officer Thomas Pepek's request for a leave of absence to attend the state police academy. Commissioners also scheduled the next meeting for June 9, 2025, and adjourned the session.

• Approved and released April 14, 2025 minutes (both commissioners voted Yes)
• Accepted Officer Thomas Pepek's leave of absence request (both commissioners voted Yes)
• Scheduled next meeting for Monday, June 9, 2025 at 5:30 pm (both commissioners voted Yes)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:53 pm (both commissioners voted Yes)

City Council Finance Committee

The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes from April 30, 2025. It authorized $500,000 from the Community Preservation Undesignated fund for the reconstruction of the city skate park, $2,000 for an archaeological study of the Hampden/Hampshire Canal, $6,000 for display cases for a historic whip collection, $90,000 for drainage improvements at Amelia’s Memorial Garden, and $20,222.73 for equipment for the new FM radio station. The $400,000 request for Athenaeum restoration was tabled, and a $250,000 appropriation to the OPEB account was denied.

• Approved April 30, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved $500,000 skatepark appropriation (3-0)
• Approved $2,000 canal archaeological study appropriation (3-0)
• Approved $6,000 whip collection display appropriation (3-0)
• Tabled $400,000 Athenaeum restoration appropriation (3-0)
• Approved $90,000 Amelia’s Memorial Garden drainage appropriation (3-0)
• Approved $20,222.73 transfer for FM radio station equipment (3-0)
• Denied $250,000 OPEB appropriation (3-0)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Westfield Parks and Recreation Commission voted to approve an amended permit for a June 14 event at the Mechanic Street cemetery, changing the start time to 12:30 pm and allowing a live black‑powder demonstration. The motion was seconded by Vincent Olinski and passed unanimously. The commissioners then approved a motion to adjourn the meeting.

• Approved amended Mechanic Street Cemetery permit (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Westfield Airport Commission

The Westfield Airport Commission voted to approve the April 3, 2025 regular session minutes by a unanimous 3‑0 vote. After hearing informational updates on the tower frequency, road intersection proposals, runway tree mitigation, taxiway reconstruction, and fuel facility bidding, the commission moved to adjourn. The motion to adjourn was seconded and approved 3‑0 at 6:27 p.m.

• Approved April 3, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:27 p.m. (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board voted to uphold the City’s enforcement order against A.J. Virgilio Construction’s trailer‑storage use at 0 Medeiros Way, closing the appeal. All three members present voted in favor. The Board also accepted several applications and set hearings for June 4, 2025.

• Accepted front‑yard variance application and scheduled hearing for June 4, 2025 (All in favor)
• Accepted DeGray’s Gas Station expansion application and scheduled hearing for June 4, 2025 (All in favor)
• Accepted 255 Southampton Road special‑permit application and scheduled hearing for June 4, 2025 (All in favor)
• Accepted ADU application at 756 North Road and scheduled hearing for June 4, 2025 (All in favor)
• Accepted carport addition application at 323 Buckpond Road and scheduled hearing for June 4, 2025 (All in favor)
• Upheld enforcement order for 0 Medeiros Way, closing the appeal (All in favor)

Municipal Light Board

The Municipal Light Board accepted the minutes of the April 2, 2025 regular session with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. No other motions were adopted; the remainder of the meeting was devoted to reports, acknowledgments, and financial updates.

• Accepted April 2, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Board of Public Works

The Board voted 3‑0 to wave the March 4, 2025 minutes and to accept the April 1, 2025 minutes. It approved acceptance of several streets—Plantation Circle, Michael Drive, Victoria Circle, Woodsong Road and Campanelli Drive (excluding the median). The Board also approved L & O’s recommendation to amend Ordinance 16‑107, changing the public‑road access period to 30 years and raising the petition signature requirement to 66 %.

• Wave reading of March 4, 2025 minutes (approved 3-0)
• Accept April 1, 2025 minutes (approved 3-0)
• Accept Plantation Circle, Michael Drive, Victoria Circle, Woodsong Road and Campanelli Drive (median excluded) (approved 3-0)
• Approve amendment to Ordinance 16-107: reduce public‑road access period to 30 years and increase petition signature threshold to 66% (approved 3-0)

Planning Board

The board approved the site plan and stormwater permit for an educational/childcare facility at 0 Southampton Road. It also voted to send a positive recommendation for a backyard‑chicken ordinance, approved a special permit for an electronic sign at 118 Meadow Street, and authorized the Commonwealth purchase of two lots at 202 Honey Pot Road. Finally, the board endorsed the Nathaniel Hill subdivision plan.

• Approved site plan & stormwater permit for childcare facility at 0 Southampton Rd (7-0)
• Sent positive recommendation for backyard chicken ordinance (7-0)
• Approved special permit for electronic sign at 118 Meadow St (7-0)
• Approved Commonwealth purchase of two lots at 202 Honey Pot Rd (unanimous)
• Endorsed Nathaniel Hill subdivision plan (unanimous)

City Council

The Council accepted the reading of the April 17, 2025 meeting record. Items 1 and 2 of the Mayor's communications—$500,000 for the skate park and $400,000 for the Athenaeum—were referred to the Finance Committee. The public hearing on the special permit for 81 Servistar Industrial Way was continued until the May 15, 2025 meeting.

• Accepted reading of April 17, 2025 meeting record
• Referred $500,000 skate park appropriation to Finance Committee
• Referred $400,000 Athenaeum appropriation to Finance Committee
• Continued public hearing on 81 Servistar Industrial Way permit to May 15

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting. It voted to forward an amendment to Chapter 18, Article II, Division 3, Section 18-122 on refuse and recycling fees to the City Council without a recommendation. A resolution authorizing the mayor to execute documents for a 16‑acre agricultural preservation restriction on North Road was kept in committee. Motions to adopt General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clauses 17F and 17E for senior‑citizen tax exemptions were also retained in committee.

• Approved minutes of April 16, 2025 (2-0)
• Sent ordinance amending refuse and recycling fees to City Council without recommendation (2-0)
• Resolution for 16‑acre agricultural preservation restriction remains in committee (2-0)
• Motion to adopt senior‑citizen exemption increase (Clause 17F) remains in committee (2-0)
• Motion to adopt senior‑citizen asset‑limit increase (Clause 17E) remains in committee (2-0)

City Council Zoning, Planning and Development Committee

The committee approved the minutes from April 14, 2025 (2‑0). It adopted amendments adding four specific uses to Section 3.130.2 of the Industrial A district and excluding five listed uses (2‑0). The amended petition was referred to the City Council for a public hearing (2‑0). The meeting was then adjourned (2‑0).

• Accepted April 14, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Added Retail store ≤750 sq ft to Industrial A (Section 3.130.2) (2-0)
• Added Service‑oriented stores (e.g., barbershop, beautician) to Industrial A (2-0)
• Added Retail service/custom stores (e.g., bakery, jewelry) to Industrial A (2-0)
• Added Branch bank/financial office to Industrial A (2-0)
• Added Medical or dental clinic to Industrial A (2-0)
• Excluded items 1, 6, 8, 9, and 10 from Commercial A list from being added (2-0)
• Referred amended petition to City Council for public hearing (2-0)

City Council Finance Committee

The committee approved the minutes from April 10, 2025 and took item #5 out of order. It authorized $950 for new vehicle tires, $1,072,804.83 for sidewalk upgrades, $16,768.20 for drainage at the Central Street Lot, and $15,625 for additional poll pads. The $250,000 OPEB appropriation was tabled until the next meeting, and the meeting adjourned at 5:57 PM.

• Approved minutes from April 10, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved taking item #5 out of order (3-0)
• Approved $950 vehicle tire purchase (3-0)
• Approved $1,072,804.83 sidewalk upgrades (3-0)
• Tabled $250,000 OPEB appropriation (3-0)
• Approved $16,768.20 drainage at Central Street Lot (3-0)
• Approved $15,625 purchase of poll pads (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:57 PM (3-0)

Water Commission

The Water Commission adopted the state‑mandated Level One drought restrictions effective April 28, 2025. It issued a positive recommendation for the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office to use the Granville communications tower. The Commissioners approved the April 1, 2025 meeting minutes and signed the schedules for bills payable. The meeting was adjourned at 6:33 p.m.

• Adopted Level One drought restrictions as mandated by Mass DEP (motion by Commissioner Cole)
• Provided positive recommendation for Sheriff’s use of Granville tower (no vote required)
• Approved April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Commissioner Cole)
• All Commissioners signed schedules for bills payable
• Motion to adjourn passed (motion by Commissioner Niedzielski, seconded by Commissioner Popielarczyk)

Historical Commission

The commission accepted the March meeting minutes pending a date correction. It approved funding for the CPC Whip Case Application. Several scheduled activities were postponed or rescheduled, and two commissioners announced their resignations effective in June. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted March minutes pending date correction (motion carried)
• Approved funds for CPC Whip Case Application (motion carried)
• Postponed stone cleaning at Old Burying Grounds to June 7 at 10 a.m.
• Postponed selection of a date to visit Mundale Cemetery until next meeting
• Rescheduled Ghost Talk/Tour to March 27‑28, 2026
• Commissioners assigned outreach tasks for the 250th Revolution celebration
• Noted resignations of Commissioners Bannish and Gaylord, effective June
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board approved a 3% cost‑of‑living increase on the first $13,000 of retirement pay, effective July 1, 2025. It also adopted recommended investment changes, approved bills and warrants, accepted several retirement applications and figures, and approved a Section 9 death benefit. Additional actions included hiring an office manager, adding new members, and authorizing refunds and transfers.

• Approved recommended investment updates (redeems and $3M contribution), motion passed
• Approved bills and warrants as presented, motion passed
• Approved retirement applications for six members, motion passed
• Approved retirement figures for two police members, motion passed
• Approved Section 9 death benefit for John Stec’s widow, motion passed
• Approved contract for Kristen Hall as Office Manager, motion passed
• Approved 3% COLA increase on first $13,000 of retirement pay, effective 7/1/2025, motion passed
• Accepted new members into the system, motion passed

Board of Health

The Westfield Board of Health voted to accept a proposed letter to the Energy Facilities Siting Board concerning an ESS battery energy storage facility. The motion was made by Carrie Hildreth‑Fiordalice, seconded, and both board members voted Yes, so the motion passed. The board then adjourned the meeting at 6:03 p.m.

• Accepted letter to Energy Facilities Siting Board (Strzempko Yes, Hildreth‑Fiordalice Yes)
• Adjourned meeting (Strzempko Yes, Hildreth‑Fiordalice Yes)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved a Determination for the 1515 Granville Road tree removal project and issued an Order of Conditions with a $1,500 bond for the 192 & 194 East Main Street site. It also continued several items to the May 13 meeting, released a Certificate of Compliance for 71 Tumpike Industrial Road, and adopted enforcement orders for violations at 222 Russellville Road.

• Issued Determination (Positive 5/Negative 5) for 1515 Granville Rd tree removal (unanimous)
• Continued 74 Russellville Rd wetland delineation to May 13 (unanimous)
• Issued Order of Conditions with $1,500 bond for 192 & 194 East Main St (unanimous)
• Continued 81 Servistar Industrial Way item to May 13, to seek law review and issue Enforcement Order to Home Depot (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance and released bond for 71 Tumpike Industrial Rd (unanimous)
• Continued 733 Montgomery Rd certificate review to May 13 (unanimous)
• Adopted Enforcement Order requiring NOI for driveway at 222 Russellville Rd by May 13 (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council voted to allow the mayor to move up to $10,000 between departments for a limited period. It also accepted two in‑lieu of taxes contributions from the Westfield Gas & Electric Light Department totaling $1,532,054. The Council suspended its rules to act on agenda items, approved the Airport Manager job description, and accepted a $7,713,066 depreciation appropriation for the Gas & Electric Department.

• Approved mayor’s authority to transfer up to $10,000 between departments (11‑0 vote, 2 absent)
• Accepted $532,054 in‑lieu of taxes contribution from Westfield Gas & Electric (11‑0 vote, 2 absent)
• Accepted $1,000,000 in‑lieu of taxes contribution from Westfield Gas & Electric (11‑0 vote, 2 absent)
• Suspended City Council rules to act on agenda items (voice vote)
• Approved Airport Manager job description (voice vote)
• Accepted 2025 depreciation appropriation for Gas & Electric Department – $7,713,066 (yes votes recorded)
• Referred mayoral appropriations (items 3‑7) to Finance Committee (motion passed)
• Referred reappointments of Shanna Reed and Meghan Bristol to Personnel Action Committee (motion passed)

Westfield Housing Authority

The Westfield Housing Authority approved two contracts for financial assistance, increasing the CFA by $688,309 and the CRA by $1,132,543.11. All listed bills and reports were accepted, and the next meeting was set for May 13, 2025. The meeting adjourned at 9:34 a.m. after unanimous votes on each item.

• Approved March 6 minutes (3‑0)
• Authorized payment of all Revolving Account bills (3‑0)
• Authorized payment of all Project 400‑1 bills (3‑0)
• Authorized payment of all Project 689‑C bills (3‑0)
• Accepted Treasurer’s Report (3‑0)
• Authorized Contract for Financial Assistance (5001) increasing CFA $688,309 (3‑0)
• Authorized Contract for Financial Assistance #15 increasing CRA $1,132,543.11 (3‑0)
• Set next board meeting for May 13, 2025 at 5:30 pm (3‑0)

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee approved the March‑19, April‑2 and April‑3 meeting minutes. It accepted a memorandum on proposed marijuana ordinance changes and approved a conservation restriction for 1342 East Mountain Road. The transfer of former St. Casimir's Church property was kept in committee, and a residential rental registration ordinance was removed from the agenda without action.

• Approved minutes of March 19, April 2 and April 3, 2025 (2-0)
• Accepted memorandum on proposed marijuana ordinance changes (2-0)
• Approved Conservation Restriction at 1342 East Mountain Road (2-0)
• Kept transfer of former St. Casimir's Church property in committee (2-0)
• Removed residential rental property registration ordinance from committee (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:47 PM (2-0)

Board of Health

The Board unanimously voted to have the Health Director prepare a letter opposing the proposed lithium battery storage facility. It also unanimously supported the American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative and approved the March 12 meeting minutes. The Board noted no objections to the chicken coop zoning amendment and set a special meeting for April 23 to review the opposition letter.

• Approved March 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved drafting a letter opposing lithium battery storage facility (3-0)
• Approved support for American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative (3-0)
• Approved monthly Health Department and Transfer Station bills (signed)
• Recorded no objections to chicken coop ordinance amendment (unanimous)
• Set special meeting for April 23, 2025 to review opposition letter (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:04 p.m. (unanimous)

Off-Street Parking Commission

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the February 19, 2025 meeting. It also approved a food‑truck license for Derek Robert DBA P.M.A. Provisions at Elm Street Plaza and approved the Run Westfield Block Party on May 17, 2025. Finally, the commission unanimously voted to raise the monthly parking permit fee to $20 (annual $200) starting July 1, 2025.

• Approved February 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved food‑truck license for Derek Robert DBA P.M.A. Provisions, 88 Beveridge Blvd (unanimous)
• Approved use of Elm Street Plaza for Run Westfield Block Party on May 17, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved increase of monthly parking permit fee to $20 with $200 annual rate effective July 1, 2025 (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a Special Permit, Site Plan, and Stormwater Permit for Irina & Family LLC to develop a motor vehicle sales facility at 198 Lockhouse Road. The Board set fence height requirements, required a phasing plan and signage details, and prohibited EV repairs on the site. The hearing was closed and the decision was unanimous. The Board also moved the review of a childcare facility proposal to May 6, 2025.

• Approved Special Permit/Site Plan/Stormwater Permit for Irina & Family LLC (198 Lockhouse Rd.) – all members voted Yes
• Set fence height to 8 ft along northern lot line, front 20 ft limited to 3 ft with transition
• Required applicant to submit phasing plan, architectural and signage details, and complete stormwater system in first phase
• Prohibited repair work on electric‑vehicle (EV) units at the site
• Established sign lighting off by 9:00 PM and sign illumination off at property line
• Closed the hearing on the Irina & Family LLC proposal – motion passed unanimously
• Continued review of Community Action Pioneer Valley childcare site to May 6, 2025 – all members voted Yes
• No final action on the proposed Industrial A zoning amendment; discussion referred for further study

Commission for Citizens with Disabilities

The commission approved the March 18, 2025 minutes by a 5‑0 vote. It tabled the transition plan discussion for a later date, also by 5‑0. Commissioners voted 5‑0 to create a $3,000 Assistive Services Account for ASL interpreters only. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous 5‑0 motion.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (5/0)
• Tabled transition plan review (5/0)
• Authorized $3,000 Assistive Services Account for ASL interpreters (5/0)
• Adjourned meeting (5/0)

Fire Commission

The Westfield Fire Commission accepted the March 10, 2025 fire department minutes and approved Angel Reyes’ bachelor’s degree for incentive pay. Commissioners voted 2‑0 to extend an offer to Firefighter Leon Morin for the EMS Superintendent position. The commission also noted Chief Egloff’s intent to retire in April 2026 and recorded receipt of a $19,844.15 grant for new equipment.

• Accepted March 10, 2025 fire department minutes (2-0)
• Approved Angel Reyes’ bachelor’s degree for incentive pay (2-0)
• Extended offer to Leon Morin for EMS Superintendent (2-0)
• Recorded receipt of $19,844.15 grant for equipment
• Delivered two thermal imagers and an electric vehicle emergency plug
• Delivered new apparatus to replace Engine 5 (service pending)
• Chief Egloff announced intent to retire in April 2026
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

License Commission

The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from March 10, 2025, and approved the transfer of Kismet Brewing Company's annual farmer brewery pouring permit to Jacob Golen. It also approved a Common Victualler license for Roosters Chicken to sell prepared foods, pending health inspection approval, and approved an entertainment license for Fun Z Trampoline Park. Additionally, the Commission unanimously approved multiple Section 14 one‑day liquor licenses for community events and filed police incident report #25‑3003.

• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of Kismet Brewing Company license to Jacob Golen (unanimous)
• Approved Common Victualler license for Roosters Chicken pending health inspection (unanimous)
• Approved Entertainment License for Fun Z Trampoline Park (unanimous)
• Approved Section 14 one‑day license for Westfield Woman's Club (fee waived, unanimous)
• Approved Section 14 one‑day license for Skyline Beer Company (unanimous)
• Approved Section 14 one‑day license for YMCA fundraiser (fee waived, unanimous)
• Filed police incident report #25‑3003 (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved $500,000 in funding for the skatepark project, noting that additional city and federal funds will also be needed. The commission unanimously accepted the February 10, 2025 meeting minutes. Afterward, the commission voted to adjourn the meeting.

• Approved $500,000 skatepark funding (no vote tally recorded)
• Accepted Feb 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous yes votes)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous yes votes)

City Council Zoning, Planning and Development Committee

The committee accepted the March 17 and March 31 minutes. It approved a request to the mayor to create a working committee to draft a comprehensive ordinance for battery energy storage facilities and related businesses. The committee also accepted all maps and information presented by Councilor Mello for use in the ordinance work. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted March 17 and March 31 minutes (motion by Allie, seconded by Fanion)
• Approved request to mayor to set up working committee on battery ordinance (2-0)
• Accepted maps and information presented by Councilor Mello for ordinance work (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Council On Aging

The board noted Jack Leary’s resignation and thanked him. It scheduled the annual meeting and officer appointments for May 12 2025 and set additional meetings for June 9 and July 14 2025. A motion to adjourn was carried, ending the session at 1:25 p.m.

• Scheduled annual meeting and officer appointments for May 12, 2025
• Set future meeting dates for June 9 and July 14, 2025
• Motion to adjourn carried

Police Commission

The commission approved the release of the March 10, 2025 minutes. They confirmed Anthony Tsatsos as the department’s Traffic Officer, voted to join the Civil Service Hybrid hiring pathway, and approved eliminating the cadet tuition reimbursement program. The next regular meeting was scheduled for May 12, 2025 at 5:30 p.m., and the commission adjourned.

• Approved release of March 10, 2025 minutes
• Appointed Anthony Tsatsos as Traffic Officer
• Approved participation in Civil Service Hybrid Pathway
• Approved elimination of cadet tuition reimbursement
• Scheduled next meeting for May 12, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 6:19 p.m.

Community Preservation Committee

The Westfield Community Preservation Committee approved several funding applications, including a $2,000 supplemental request for the Hampden/Hampshire Canal study, a $6,000 purchase of a protective case for historic whips, $400,000 for the Westfield Athenaeum renovation, $500,000 for a skate park modernization, and $90,000 for Amelia Park Garden rehabilitation. The committee also approved the meeting minutes from January 9, 2025, and then adjourned the meeting. All motions passed with members in favor, with the chair abstaining on the Athenaeum vote.

• Approved 1-9-25 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved $2,000 supplemental request for Hampden/Hampshire Canal study (all in favor)
• Approved $6,000 purchase of whips display case and lighting (all in favor)
• Approved $400,000 Westfield Athenaeum renovation (all in favor, Chair abstained)
• Approved $500,000 skate park modernization (all in favor)
• Approved $90,000 Amelia Park Garden rehabilitation (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

City Council Finance Committee

The committee approved an appropriation of $145,581.80 to equip the new North Side Engine 3 and a transfer of $296,915 to purchase a customized Sprinter van for mobile production. It also removed a $25,108 appropriation for health‑department fencing, approved the March 31 minutes, and postponed the FY 26 budget hearing discussion to the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 5:31 PM.

• Approved $145,581.80 fire equipment appropriation (2-0)
• Approved $296,915 PEG van purchase (2-0)
• Removed $25,108 health‑department fencing appropriation (2-0)
• Approved March 31, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Continued FY 26 budget hearing discussion to next meeting (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Health Plan Trust

The board approved the minutes from the March 31, 2025 meeting. They voted to reject both the BCBS Weight Management Program and the HNE Virta Program. The trustees then approved a 28% increase in health‑insurance rates for fiscal year 2026. The meeting was adjourned at 11:44 AM.

• Approved March 31, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Rejected BCBS Weight Management Program (5-0)
• Rejected HNE Virta Program (5-0)
• Approved 28% FY‑26 health‑insurance rate increase (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting. It also accepted the March monthly abatement and commitment reports. Afterwards the Board voted to enter an executive session.

• Accepted March 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Accepted March monthly abatement/commitment reports
• Entered Executive Session

Conservation Commission

The commission voted unanimously to issue a Positive 5 and Negative 5 Determination of Applicability for the shed project at 535 Russellville Road. It also voted to continue the 74 Russellville Road wetland delineation, the 300 Union Street restoration, and the 192 & 194 East Main Street landscaping items to future dates. A motion to close the public meeting was approved. No certificate of compliance was recommended for the 300 Union Street parking project.

• Issued Positive 5/Negative 5 Determination of Applicability for 535 Russellville Rd (unanimous)
• Continued 74 Russellville Rd wetland delineation to April 22, 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued 300 Union St restoration item to May 13, 2025 with required plans (unanimous)
• Continued 192 & 194 East Main St landscaping to April 22, 2025 for NHESP determination (unanimous)
• Motion to close public meeting passed (unanimous)
• Recess motion passed at 7:30 pm (unanimous)
• Re‑convene motion passed at 7:33 pm (unanimous)
• Did not recommend issuance of Certificate of Compliance for 300 Union St (no vote recorded)

Retirement Board

The board voted to allow Ray Depelteau to redeploy the $25 million previously withdrawn from equity markets back into the markets at his discretion. The motion passed with four members voting yes and one absent. The board also voted to adjourn the meeting at 9:32 am, which passed with the same vote tally.

• Approved Ray Depelteau's discretion to redeploy $25 million (4 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved adjournment of meeting at 9:32 am (4 yes, 1 absent)

School Committee Subcommittee

The Westfield School Committee Human Resources & Policy Subcommittee met on April 7, 2025 and reviewed a series of policy files covering non‑discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and grievance procedures. The subcommittee voted to rescind or amend each of those policies, and to adopt the AC‑R Non‑Discrimination Policy, with every motion passing unanimously. All votes were recorded as "All were in favor."

• Rescinded AC Non-Discrimination Policy Including Harassment and Retaliation (unanimous)
• Amended AC Non-Discrimination Policy Including Harassment and Retaliation (unanimous)
• Rescinded AC‑R Non-Discrimination Policy Including Harassment and Retaliation (unanimous)
• Adopted AC‑R Non-Discrimination Policy Including Harassment and Retaliation (unanimous)
• Rescinded ACA Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Sex (unanimous)
• Amended ACA Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Sex (unanimous)
• Rescinded ACAB Sexual and Sex Based Harassment and Retaliation (unanimous)
• Amended ACAB Sexual and Sex Based Harassment and Retaliation (unanimous)

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The Legislative and Ordinance Committee voted 2‑0 to accept a petition for the street named Caitlin Way. Both Councilor Onyski and Councilor Burns voted Yes. The committee also voted 2‑0 to adjourn the meeting at 6:32 PM.

• Accepted petition for Caitlin Way street (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:32 PM (2-0)

City Council

The City Council approved a $243,012 appropriation to demolish the former police station at 6 Union Street and transferred small sums to cover prior‑year bills for the Public Works Department. The council also approved a disclosure for Police employee Tracy J. Ploof to serve as a part‑time community outreach worker and suspended council rules to act on items received at the meeting. Several mayoral items were referred to the Finance, Legislative Ordinance, Law, Personnel Action, and License committees, and a special permit application for 81 Servistar Industrial Way was sent to the Zoning, Planning and Development Committee with a public hearing to be scheduled.

• Approved $243,012 demolition appropriation for former police station (unanimous)
• Approved disclosure for Police employee Tracy J. Ploof as community outreach worker (unanimous)
• Suspended council rules to act on items received at the meeting (voice vote)
• Referred mayoral items 1‑2 to Finance Committee
• Referred mayoral items 3‑5 to Legislative Ordinance Committee and Law Department
• Referred mayoral item 6 to Personnel Action Committee (reappointment of Allison McMordie)
• Referred mayoral item 7 to License Committee (license renewals)
• Referred special permit application for 81 Servistar Industrial Way to Zoning, Planning and Development Committee and scheduled public hearing

Westfield Airport Commission

The commission approved the March 6, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0). It appointed Jeff Lovejoy as Acting Airport Manager, formed a search committee, approved the permanent manager job description, and delegated interview‑question development to Anne Larkham, each unanimously. The commission also approved an Air Methods storage shed and Whip City Fiber installation in Hangar 3, and adjourned the meeting (3-0).

• Approved March 6, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved Jeff Lovejoy as Acting Airport Manager (3-0)
• Approved formation of search committee (3-0)
• Approved BAF Airport Manager job description (3-0)
• Approved delegation of interview questions to Anne Larkham (3-0)
• Approved Air Methods storage shed installation (3-0)
• Approved Whip City Fiber installation for Hangar 3 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The committee voted to keep the March 19, 2025 minutes in committee. It approved sending an amendment to Chapter 18, Article II, Division 3 of the Division of Public Services to the City Council with a negative recommendation. The memorandum on proposed changes to the marijuana ordinances was retained in committee. The meeting adjourned at 6:20 PM.

• Leave March 19 minutes in committee (3-0)
• Send public services ordinance amendment to City Council with negative recommendation (3-0)
• Marijuana ordinance memorandum remains in committee (3-0)
• Adjourn meeting (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board scheduled a public hearing for May 7, 2025. It approved a special permit to add a wood‑framed, open‑sided carport at 4 Pinehurst Street, attaching two conditions. Approval of the meeting minutes was postponed until the May 7, 2026 minutes. The board then adjourned the meeting.

• Scheduled public hearing for May 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for carport at 4 Pinehurst St. with conditions (3‑0)
• Postponed approval of minutes to May 7, 2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:34 p.m. (unanimous)

Emergency Planning Committee

The Emergency Planning Committee made and seconded a motion to accept the March 5 meeting minutes. No vote tally was recorded. The committee also discussed grant funding limits, upcoming city events, and a draft ordinance that will be forwarded to the City Council for further review.

• Motion to accept March 5 meeting minutes made and seconded

Municipal Light Board

The Westfield Municipal Light Board met on April 2, 2025 and took roll call. A motion by Commissioner Roman, seconded by Commissioner Renaudette, to accept the meeting minutes was voted on and passed 6‑0, with Commissioner Sacco absent. The board also reviewed reports on compensation, communications, gas and electric operations, and rate comparisons, but no further actions were decided.

• Accepted minutes of April 2, 2025 meeting (6-0 vote)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works voted 2‑0, with Member Matthew Degray abstaining, to accept responsibility for setting the solid waste management fee. The Board also voted to recommend raising the solid waste fee from $85 to $260 per household. No public participation was recorded for this meeting.

• Board voted 2‑0 to accept responsibility for setting the solid waste fee (Matthew Degray abstained)
• Board voted to recommend increasing the solid waste fee from $85 to $260 per unit/household

Water Commission

The commission voted 3‑0 to refund bill #918021 for 33 Elise Street in the amount of $25,380.00. All commissioners signed the schedules for bills payable. No other formal actions requiring a vote were recorded at this meeting.

• Refund bill #918021 for 33 Elise Street approved (3-0)
• All commissioners signed schedules for bills payable

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the March 18 meeting. It approved an ANR for 22 Ashley St. with a 5‑1 vote and recommended acceptance of the Plantation Circle street petition unanimously. The Board also agreed to schedule ANRs after public hearings and passed a motion to petition the City Council to correct zoning map inconsistencies.

• Approved March 18 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved ANR for 22 Ashley St. (5-1)
• Recommended acceptance of Plantation Circle street petition (unanimous)
• Board agreed to schedule ANRs after public hearings
• Board voted to petition City Council to correct zoning map errors (unanimous)
• Member Crowe volunteered as Board representative to Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee (agreement)

City Council Zoning, Planning and Development Committee

The committee voted 3‑0 to refer the battery storage ordinance comments, expert answers, and public suggestions to the City Planner and Law Department for amendment development. A separate motion was approved 2‑1 to keep the proposed battery energy storage ordinance in committee rather than advancing it to the full council. No other substantive actions were taken at this meeting.

• Refer battery storage ordinance comments to City Planner and Law Department (3-0)
• Keep proposed battery energy storage ordinance in committee (2-1)

City Council Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved the March 13, 2025 minutes and authorized a $243,012 appropriation (reduced from $253,012) for demolition of the building at 6 Union Street and hazardous‑material removal. The committee also approved seven prior‑year fund transfers totaling $8,495.67 to cover various departmental invoices. All motions passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved March 13, 2025 Finance Committee minutes (3-0)
• Approved $243,012 appropriation for demolition of 6 Union Street police station building (3-0)
• Approved $1,159 transfer to pay prior‑year sheriff’s office bill (3-0)
• Approved $1,357 transfer to pay prior‑year Northeast Overhead Services bill (3-0)
• Approved $1,430.67 transfer to pay prior‑year Gomes Construction bill (3-0)
• Approved $1,491.67 transfer to pay prior‑year Gomes Construction retainage (3-0)
• Approved $1,634 transfer to pay prior‑year Carlsen Systems hydraulic kit invoice (3-0)

Health Plan Trust

The trustees voted 5-0 to approve the minutes from the October 23, 2024 meeting. They reported that the Health Plan Trust balance was $8,366,236.08 as of February 28, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned by a 5-0 vote.

• Approved October 23, 2024 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board approved a contract to switch pension‑management software to Bay State Pension. It also voted to waive past payroll deduction errors for clothing allowance and Narcan stipends. Additional actions included updating investments, approving bills, and accepting new members and retirement applications.

• Approved entry into Executive Session to discuss legal strategy (4-0)
• Approved Attorney Kenyon to file responses to appeal and withdraw other appeals (4-0)
• Approved investment portfolio changes as recommended (4-0)
• Approved bills and warrants totaling $2,591,805.41 (4-0)
• Approved contract with Bay State Pension to switch software providers (4-0)
• Approved waiver of clothing allowance and Narcan stipend payroll errors (4-0)
• Approved acceptance of listed new members into the system (4-0)
• Approved refunds and transfers for three members with applicable interest (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Westfield Conservation Commission voted unanimously to issue a Certificate of Compliance and release the bond for the Eversource Line 1853 vegetation‑management project. The commission also postponed further action on the 300 Union Street wetland mitigation and the 192‑196 East Main Street parking improvement projects to the April 8, 2025 meeting. All votes were recorded as yes from Grobe, Weglarz, Florek, and Giffune.

• Issue Certificate of Compliance for Eversource Line 1853 and release bond (4‑0)
• Continue 300 Union Street wetland mitigation item to April 8, 2025 (4‑0)
• Continue 192‑196 East Main Street parking improvement project to April 8, 2025 (4‑0)

School Committee Subcommittee

The subcommittee decided to postpone the planned phase changes to Westfield High School and Westfield Technical Academy graduation requirements until the 2025‑2026 school year because of budget constraints. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Delayed graduation requirement phase changes to 2025‑2026 (budget constraints)
• Adjourned meeting – motion passed unanimously

Historical Commission

The commission accepted the February meeting minutes. It hired Shannon Walsh to complete the National Register application for the Wyben Schoolhouse. It added 7 Hawthorne Ave to the town’s list of historic properties. The meeting was adjourned.

• Accepted February meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved hiring Shannon Walsh for Wyben Schoolhouse National Register application (motion carried)
• Approved adding 7 Hawthorne Ave to historic properties list (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

City Council

The council adopted a $250,000 appropriation from free cash to the Health Insurance Benefit Account, with all members voting Yes. It also accepted a $250 donation from the Kiwanis Club and 2,000 pre‑filled plastic eggs from Westfield Gas + Electric for the Mayor’s Easter Egg Hunt. Council rules were suspended to act on items, the public hearing for a limo license was closed and referred to the License Commission, and a petition for Plantation Circle street acceptance was referred to several departments. The resolution to let the Superintendent submit a Statement of Interest for a new Technical Academy was rejected.

• Approved $250,000 health‑insurance appropriation (unanimous Yes)
• Adopted resolution accepting $250 donation from Kiwanis Club (voice vote all in favor)
• Adopted resolution accepting 2,000 plastic eggs from Westfield Gas + Electric (voice vote all in favor)
• Suspended City Council rules to act on items (voice vote all in favor)
• Closed limo license public hearing and referred petition to License Commission
• Referred Plantation Circle street‑acceptance petition to Law Dept, Public Works, Engineering, Planning Board, and Legislative & Ordinance Committee (voice vote all in favor)
• Placed Personnel Director’s open‑positions list on file (motion passed)
• Rejected resolution authorizing Superintendent to submit SOI for Technical Academy (vote: 7 Yes, 7 No; motion lost)

City Council Legislative and Ordinance Committee

The committee approved the March 5 minutes unanimously. It voted 2‑1 to forward the superintendent’s high school project presentation to City Council with a negative recommendation. The committee kept the proposed amendment to Chapter 16, Section 16‑107 in committee (3‑0). It also approved sending a wetlands‑protection ordinance amendment to City Council with a positive recommendation (3‑0).

• Approved March 5 minutes (3-0)
• Sent high school presentation to Council with negative recommendation (2-1)
• Kept Chapter 16‑107 amendment review in committee (3-0)
• Sent wetlands protection ordinance amendment to Council with positive recommendation (3-0)

Traffic Commission

The commission approved the minutes from January 8, 2025. It adopted new no‑parking rules for the north side of Linden Avenue and for Valley View Drive between City View and Heggie Drive. The commission also approved the concept plan for Southwick Road improvements and denied an all‑way stop at Holyoke Road and Springdale. All votes were recorded as in favor.

• Approved January 8, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Postponed PVTA bus stops codification motion (all in favor)
• Approved elimination of parking on north side of Linden Avenue for full length (all in favor)
• Approved no‑parking on both sides of Valley View Drive from City View to Heggie Drive (all in favor)
• Approved concept for Southwick Road improvements, including sidewalks, turn lane, bike lanes and beacons (all in favor)
• Denied all‑way stop at Holyoke Road and Springdale (all in favor)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (all in favor)