Westwood public meetings in 2025

Historic Preservation Commission

The Westwood Historic Preservation Commission meeting includes routine procedural items, a budget statement, and updates on ongoing historic projects. A public hearing will be held to review the nomination report to designate the Westwood Trust Building at 1 Westwood Avenue. The commission will also discuss ways to acknowledge homeowners who preserve historic structures.

• Public hearing to review nomination report to designate the Westwood Trust Building (1 Westwood Ave).
• Statement of accounts: $5,800 budget ( $1,200 Westwood Trust Building, $1,200 Veteran’s Park, $900 Social Media).
• Proposed 2026 meeting schedule dates (Jan 15, Feb 19, Mar 19, etc.).
• Ongoing designation projects: Westwood Trust Building/Old Bank of America Building, Veteran’s Memorial Park, Pascack Movie Theater, Fireman’s Park, Westwood Train Station.
• Discussion of homeowner acknowledgment for historic preservation (example: 224 3rd Ave).

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council will consider several ordinances and a series of resolutions during its December 16, 2025 meeting. Items include a $17,000 camera installation at Brookside Park, a zoning amendment for the Central Business District/Special Pedestrian Environment District, and multiple contract and salary adjustments. The most consequential item is the resolution authorizing the execution of an interlocal agreement for 911 emergency telephone services between the Borough of Paramus and the Borough of Westwood.

• Ordinance providing cameras at Brookside Park, appropriating $17,000 from the Recreation Trust Fund
• Ordinance amending Article XIV zoning districts for the Central Business District/Special Pedestrian Environment District
• Resolution authorizing execution of an interlocal agreement for 911 emergency telephone services with Paramus
• Resolution authorizing funds to Kelly Donahue Contracting, Inc. for electric conduit trenching on Center Avenue North Parking Lot
• Resolution authorizing funds to Johnston Brothers Contracting for lighting conduit and wiring on Center Avenue North

Library Board of Trustees

The Westwood Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve bills, receive a treasurer's report, and consider resolutions regarding operating reserves and capital funds. The agenda also includes updates on committee reports, policy, and personnel.

• Resolution to authorize use of operating reserves
• Resolution to restrict capital funds
• Motion to pay current bills
• Friends Holiday Party
• January Reorganization Meeting

Board of Health

The Westwood Board of Health will convene at Borough Hall to approve minutes, receive reports on school advisory updates and health department activities, and move the January 14, 2026 meeting to January 21, 2026.

• Approval of November 12, 2025 minutes
• High School Advisory update
• Health Department Manager update
• Town Council Liaison report
• Motion to reschedule January 14, 2026 meeting to January 21, 2026

The December 10, 2025 Board of Health meeting covered routine reports, a public forum, and a closed session discussing a staff resignation and replacement. Vote tallies for motions (e.g., moving the January meeting date and staff changes) were not clearly documented in the minutes. Consequently, no concrete decisions with confirmed outcomes can be reported.

Shade Tree Advisory Committee

The Shade Tree Advisory Committee will consider approval of the 2026‑2030 Community Forestry Management Plan. It will review tree work performed from October to November 2025 and update the tree inventory map. The meeting also includes board member term renewals, nomination of a secretary, and next steps for an Arbor Fest partnership with Becker Funeral Home.

• Approval of the 2026‑2030 Community Forestry Management Plan
• Arbor Fest collaboration with Becker Funeral Home (next steps)
• Board member term renewals for 2025
• Nomination of officer(s) for secretary
• Proposed 2026 Tuesday meeting dates

The committee approved the December 9, 2025 meeting minutes and the October 14, 2025 minutes. Board member terms for Beth Staples, Terence Buetel, and Michael Murtaugh were set for renewal in 2026. Dan Zambrano and Fred Rella were unanimously reappointed as Chairman and Secretary for 2026. The 2026‑2030 Community Forestry Management Plan was approved for submission to the state.

• Approved December 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Renewed terms for Beth Staples, Terence Buetel, and Michael Murtaugh for 2026 (no vote recorded)
• Reappointed Dan Zambrano as Chairman for 2026 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Fred Rella as Secretary for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved sending the 2026‑2030 Community Forestry Management Plan to the state (no vote recorded)

Parking Utility

The Westwood Parking Advisory Board will discuss the delay of employee parking passes as old business. It will also approve the minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting. Additional agenda items include committee reports from Administration, Police, and the Council Liaison, as well as a public forum.

• Delay of employee parking passes (old business)
• Approve minutes of August 26, 2025
• Committee reports – Administration (Carol Knubel), Police (Chief Michael Pontillo, Sgt. Dean McCarroll), Council Liaison (Cheryl Hodges)
• Public forum
• Notice of publication pursuant to N.J. Sunshine Laws

The Advisory Board approved the minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting. A motion to open the meeting to the public was unanimously approved, followed by a unanimous motion to close the meeting to the public. The board then unanimously approved adjournment of the meeting.

• Approved minutes of August 26, 2025 (aye: Timothy Hampton, Gary Dragona, Joseph Letizia, Christopher Owens; absent: Sandra Ewen)
• Opened the meeting to the public – unanimously approved
• Closed the meeting to the public – unanimously approved
• Adjourned the meeting – unanimously approved

Recreation Advisory Board

The Recreation Advisory Board will receive updates on various capital projects and seasonal programs. The board will also address committee assignments for youth, teen, and senior programming.

• CC gym bathroom renovation update
• McKinley Park new playground update
• Brookside Park camera installation update
• Westvale Master Plan presentation scheduled for February
• Committee assignments for Over 55, Teen Center, Youth/Pre-School, Facility Improvement, and Sponsorship

The Recreation Advisory Board tabled approval of the November meeting minutes and also tabled old business items. A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and passed with all members in favor. No other actions were taken.

• Approval of November minutes tabled (no vote recorded)
• Old business tabled (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (all in favor)

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council will consider a consent agenda of several resolutions, including authorizing a lease of a 2025 Chevy Silverado with accessories for the police department. Other resolutions address extending the temporary Grab‑and‑Go parking pilot on Center Avenue, hiring a part‑time electrical inspector, setting recreation fees for the 2026 summer playground program, and an interlocal agreement with Paramus for vehicle maintenance. The meeting also includes discussion items such as the Grab‑and‑Go parking extension, a possible dedication of Westvale Softball Field, a pump track project, and instructional‑use language.

• Lease of a 2025 Chevy Silverado with accessories for the Westwood Police Department (Resolution #25)
• Extension of the temporary “Grab‑and‑Go” parking pilot program on Center Avenue Northbound (Resolution #25)
• Hiring of a part‑time electrical inspector/subcode official (Resolution #25)
• Recreation fees for the 2026 summer playground and after‑care program (Resolution #25)
• Interlocal agreement with the Borough of Paramus for vehicle maintenance and repair (Resolution #25)

The Borough Council approved Resolution #25-304 in a closed session. In the public session, the council approved the entire consent agenda, which includes eight resolutions covering budget items, parking, hiring, police equipment, recreation fees, tax relief, and an interlocal agreement. All votes were affirmative with five members voting yes and one member absent.

• Approved Resolution #25-304 (5-0)
• Approved Resolutions #25-305‑312 (5-0)

Zoning Board

The Westwood Zoning Board will consider two resolutions granting variances and site‑plan approvals. One resolution authorizes CJA Ventures to create a mixed‑use building with four residential units on the second floor at 209‑211 Westwood Avenue. The other resolution permits CJA Ventures to add an off‑site parking lot and expand a garage at 362 Kinderkamck Road. The board will also hear pending applications for additional variances, subdivisions, and a child‑care center.

• ZB-24-0115: variance, site plan, bulk variances for mixed‑use 4‑unit building at 209‑211 Westwood Avenue
• ZB-25-0104: variance, bulk variances, site plan for off‑site parking lot and garage expansion at 362 Kinderkamck Road
• ZB-25-0110: variance, subdivision, site plan, bulk variances for 3‑family structure at 78‑84 Washington Avenue (may affect Visions Credit Union ownership)
• ZB-24-0106: variance, subdivision, site plan, bulk variances for 665 Broadway
• ZB-25-0113: D1‑use variance to permit a child‑care center at 120 Washington Avenue

The Zoning Board approved two CJA Ventures applications: a mixed‑use variance and site plan for 209‑211 Westwood Avenue, and an off‑site parking lot and garage expansion at 362 Kinderkamack Road. It also approved a bulk setback variance for a residential pool at 18 Garfield Avenue. Several other items were carried over to the January 12, 2026 meeting.

• Approved ZB-24-0115 variance, site plan and bulk variances for CJA Ventures, 209‑211 Westwood Ave (6‑0)
• Approved ZB-25-0104 variance, bulk variances and site plan for CJA Ventures LLC, 362 Kinderkamack Rd (5‑0)
• Approved ZB-25-0112 bulk setback variance for Theresa Cannon, 18 Garfield Ave (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 11/3/25 meeting (unanimous)
• Carried pending ZB-25-0110 (Washington Ave) to 1/12/26
• Carried pending ZB-24-0106 (665 Broadway) to 1/12/26
• Carried pending ZB-25-0113 (120 Washington Ave) to 1/12/26
• Carried ZB-25-0111 amended site plan request to 1/12/26

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council meeting will open with a closed‑session update on regulatory and affordable‑housing matters, then resume for public business. Council members will approve the October 21 minutes and hear reports from the mayor, council president, and various committees. The agenda includes several ordinances, such as funding cameras at Brookside Park and zoning amendments, and a series of resolutions covering contracts, hiring, budget transfers, and other municipal actions.

• Ordinance 25-28: Approve $17,000 from the Recreation Trust Fund for cameras at Brookside Park
• Ordinance 25-29: Amend Article XIV zoning districts for the Central Business District/Special Pedestrian Environment District
• Ordinance 25-26: Add regulations for bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and micromobility vehicles
• Resolution authorizing the auction of surplus property through GovDeals, Inc.
• Resolution authorizing funds to Sky General Construction LLC for DPW partial roof re‑cap

The Westwood Borough Council approved two new ordinances—one allowing bicycles, skateboards, scooters and other micromobility vehicles, and another establishing procedures for minor modifications to approved development plans—both passed on final reading by voice vote. The Council also swore in Alan Alarcan and Carlos Bazalar as new members of the Westwood Fire Department and approved several routine resolutions and agenda items.

• Approved Resolution #25-276 (closed‑session updates) – motion passed with Yes votes from Bicocchi, Collins, Dell, Hodges, Letizia (Greco absent)
• Approved Resolution #25-277 – Mayor swore in Alan Alarcan and Carlos Bazalar to the Fire Department
• Adopted Ordinance #25-26 (micromobility vehicles) – passed on final reading by voice vote, all present affirmative
• Adopted Ordinance #25-27 (minor modifications to development plans) – passed on final reading by voice vote, all present affirmative
• Introduced Ordinance #25-28 (Brookside Park cameras, $17,000) – hearing set for Dec 16, 2025
• Introduced Ordinance #25-29 (CBD/SPE zoning amendment) – hearing set for Dec 16, 2025
• Approved agenda/public forum – voice vote affirmative
• Approved October 21, 2025 meeting minutes – motion passed

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a pending subdivision request for 80 Sand Road, proposing to split a previously subdivided property into two undersized lots measuring 50 ft by 110 ft each. The agenda also includes a discussion item on restaurant and food uses, along with routine items such as opening statements, minutes, and adjournment.

• Subdivision request PB-25-0502 for 80 Sand Road – two 50’ x 110’ undersized lots
• Discussion of restaurant and food uses
• Swearing‑in of Board professionals

The Board approved the minutes from the Oct 23 meeting unanimously and carried a motion to open the session to the public. The scheduled Nov 6 meeting was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. No votes were taken on the pending subdivision application or the proposed restaurant‑use amendments, so no substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of 10/23/25 (unanimous)
• Motion to open meeting to public carried
• Meeting of 11/6/25 cancelled (no agenda items)
• Application PB-25-0502 (80 Sand Road) carried to next meeting (no decision)

Board of Health

The Westwood Board of Health will hold its regular meeting on November 12, 2025. The board will swear in Alternate Member Alexandra Lewis, approve the October 8 minutes, receive reports from the Health Officer, Health Department Manager, and Town Council Liaison, and discuss current food bank shortages and SNAP benefits. An event called “Hidden in Plain Sight” scheduled for November 18 will also be noted.

• Swearing in of Alternate Board Member Alexandra Lewis
• Approval of the minutes of the October 8, 2025 meeting
• Health Officer report and Health Department Manager update
• Discussion of current food bank shortages and SNAP benefits
• Mention of the “Hidden in Plain Sight” event on November 18

The Westwood Board of Health swore in alternate member Alexandra Lewis. The Board approved the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting, with approval votes recorded from Donna Bott, Helen Hodges, and Louise Cue. Motions to open and to close the meeting to the public were introduced, but the vote outcomes were not recorded in the minutes. The Health Department announced a November rabies clinic, lung‑screening, and a “Hidden in Plain Sight” seminar on November 18.

• Swore in alternate Board member Alexandra Lewis (no vote recorded)
• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (approved by Donna Bott, Helen Hodges, Louise Cue)
• Motion to open meeting to public introduced by Su McCloskey and Susan Weglarz (outcome not recorded)
• Motion to close meeting to public introduced by Diamantis Kyriakakis and Cheryl Pletsch (outcome not recorded)
• Rabies clinic scheduled for November (announcement)
• Lung‑screening scheduled for November (announcement)
• “Hidden in Plain Sight” seminar scheduled for November 18 at Zion (announcement)
• Babysitting class rescheduled to January 3, 2026 (announcement)

Recreation Advisory Board

The Westwood Recreation Advisory Board will hear the Director's report covering updates on several capital projects, including completed LED lighting and park improvements. Members will discuss committee assignments for over‑55 programs, teen center, youth/pre‑school programs, facility improvement, and sponsorship. An open public forum and a report from the council liaison are also on the agenda. No formal decisions are listed beyond routine approvals.

• Westvale LED lights project completed
• CC gym bathroom renovation
• Rec Dept new floor installed
• McKinely Park new playground
• Cameras installed at Brookside Park

Zoning Board

The Westwood Zoning Board will hold a public hearing to consider several use and bulk variance applications. The board will review proposals for residential units, parking expansions, and a family room addition.

• ZB-24-0115: 209-211 Westwood Avenue mixed-use project with 4 residential units
• ZB-25-0104: 362 Kinderkamck Road offsite parking lot and garage expansion
• ZB-25-0110: 78-84 Washington Avenue 3-family structure and subdivision
• ZB-24-0106: 665 Broadway use variance, subdivision, and site plan
• ZB-25-0109: 56 Lincoln Avenue 22” x 16” family room addition

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting. All listed variances, site plans, and pending applications were marked as not ready or incomplete and were carried to the December 1, 2025 meeting for further review. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved 10/6/25 minutes (unanimous)
• Resolution ZB-24-0115 (CJA Ventures) not ready; carried to 12/1/25
• Resolution ZB-25-0104 (CJA Ventures) not ready; carried to 12/1/25
• Pending ZB-25-0110 (CJA Ventures) incomplete; carried to 12/1/25
• Pending ZB-25-0109 (Martinez) incomplete; carried to 11/3/25
• Variance ZB-25-0111 (Five and Dimes Brewery) hearing adjourned; carried to 12/1/25
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)
• No other substantive actions taken

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on PB-25-0502, a proposal by Adam Nowak to subdivide the property at 80 Sand Road into two lots measuring approximately 50 ft by 110 ft each. The subdivision would create two undersized lots on a parcel that was previously subdivided. The board will discuss the proposal during the meeting.

• PB-25-0502 – subdivision of 80 Sand Road into two 50 ft × 110 ft lots (proposed by Adam Nowak)
• Discussion of restaurant and food uses

The Board approved the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. A motion to open the meeting to the public was made, seconded and carried. No substantive approvals, denials, or tabling of agenda items were recorded; discussion focused on a pending subdivision application and a review of restaurant‑use regulations.

• Approved 9/10/25 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to open meeting to public carried
• Noted cancellation of 9/25/25 meeting due to lack of agenda items
• Noted cancellation of 10/9/25 meeting due to lack of agenda items
• Discussed pending subdivision application PB-25-0502; no decision taken
• Board agreed Snieckus will review and provide updated memo on restaurant uses at next meeting
• Board asked Snieckus to present FAR language at the December Zoning Board meeting
• Chairman indicated possible cancellation of the next meeting; no decision taken

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council will hold a public meeting to approve minutes, introduce ordinances regarding micromobility and zoning modifications, and address personnel matters. The body will also consider resolutions for a new health savings account, a federal tax grace period, and the purchase of a Ford F-550 truck.

• Introduction of Ordinance 25-26 on micromobility vehicles
• Introduction of Ordinance 25-27 on zoning modification procedures
• Resolution to purchase a 2025 Ford F-550 Super Duty 4x4
• Resolution creating a health savings account for new employees
• Resolution authorizing an extended property tax grace period

The Borough Council approved Resolution #25-262 covering personnel and property matters. The council also approved the October 7, 2025 meeting minutes, with one abstention. Two ordinances—25-26 on micromobility vehicles and 25-27 on minor modification procedures—were introduced and passed on first reading. The council opened and then closed the public agenda forum by voice vote.

• Approved Resolution #25-262 (personnel and property matters) – unanimous yes
• Approved October 7, 2025 meeting minutes – 5 yes, 1 abstain
• Introduced Ordinance 25-26 (micromobility vehicles) – first reading approved unanimously
• Introduced Ordinance 25-27 (minor modification procedures) – first reading approved unanimously
• Opened Agenda/Public Forum – voice vote affirmative
• Closed Agenda/Public Forum – voice vote affirmative

Recreation Advisory Board

The board is meeting to receive updates on fall programs and the status of several capital projects. The agenda includes a review of completed and ongoing facility improvements and a recap of senior services trips.

• Completion of Westvale Led lights project
• Status of CC gym bathroom renovation and Rec Dept new floor
• Status of McKinley Park new playground and Brookside Park cameras
• Westvale Master Plan expected by Dec 1st
• Updates on Pascack Brook Park Pickleball/Tennis Courts and Pump Track

The Recreation Advisory Board approved the June 2025 minutes after a motion and second. Old business items were tabled. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that passed unanimously.

• Approved June 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Old business items tabled (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will discuss the resolution of intent to designate 1 Westwood Avenue as a historic landmark. The body is also reviewing ongoing designation projects and planning for the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding.

• Resolution of intent to designate 1 Westwood Avenue as a historic landmark
• Review of $5,800 budget including $1,200 for Westwood Trust Building and $1,200 for Veteran's Park
• Discussion of Revolution NJ Initiative/Bergen 250th anniversary commemoration
• Status updates on designation projects for Pascack Movie Theater, Westwood Train Station, and Fireman's Park
• Review of future designation sites including Conrad's Confectionery and Westwood Library (49 Park Ave)

The commission approved the September 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to open and then close the public forum. It adopted a resolution to designate 1 Westwood Avenue (Lot 9, Block 907). The commission also assigned Lou Scheideler to send a write‑up of the Bergen 250 plans to Colin Knight.

• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes – motion passed (in favor: Noeline Grefrath, Steve Lydon, Jackie Martin, Christine Scheideler, Lou Scheideler)
• Opened public forum – motion passed (in favor: Mike Bieri, Bill Haffler, Jackie Martin, Christine Scheideler, Lou Scheideler)
• Closed public forum – motion passed (in favor: Mike Bieri, Noeline Grefrath, Steve Lydon, Christine Scheideler, Lou Scheideler)
• Approved Resolution of Intent to designate 1 Westwood Avenue (Lot 9, Block 907) – motion passed (in favor: Mike Bieri, Noeline Grefrath, Jackie Martin, Christine Scheideler, Lou Scheideler)
• Assigned Lou Scheideler to communicate HPC plan to Colin Knight (no vote recorded)

Shade Tree Advisory Committee

The Westwood Shade Tree Committee will review September tree work, discuss Arbor Fest collaboration, and renew a Davey Tree Keeper subscription. The committee will also address board member terms expiring in 2025.

• Approval of September 2025 minutes
• September 2025 tree work report
• Arbor Fest collaboration with Becker Funeral Home
• Davey Tree Keeper subscription renewal
• Fall tree plantings and Goodwin Park tree donation

The committee approved the renewal of the Davey Tree Keeper subscription for Jan 1 2026–Jan 31 2027, adding $3,650 to the budget for 21 additional trees. They ordered 15 Acer ginnala Ruby Slipper maples and 6 Quercus bicolor Swamp White Oaks for delivery on 10/15/25 and planting on 10/16/25. Board members Beth Staples, Terence Buetel, and Michael Murtaugh agreed to serve another term, and Chairman Zambrano will contact a resident about a tree donation.

• Approved September 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• Renewed Davey Tree Keeper subscription (Jan 1 2026–Jan 31 2027) adding $3,650 for 21 trees
• Ordered 15 Acer ginnala Ruby Slipper maples and 6 Quercus bicolor Swamp White Oaks for fall planting
• DPW removed trees at 118 Ash St, 289 Broadway, 235 Harrington, and 139 Sand Rd
• Chairman Zambrano to contact homeowner about Goodwin Park tree donation and advise on professional moving
• Board members Beth Staples, Terence Buetel, and Michael Murtaugh agreed to serve another term
• Councilwoman Collins to check with Mayor and Council on Arbor Fest brochure wording
• Community Forestry Management Plan to be reviewed and voted on at December meeting

Board of Health

The Westwood Board of Health will hold its regular meeting on October 8, 2025. The agenda includes approving the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting, receiving reports from the Health Officer and Health Department Manager, and swearing in new Board Member Diamantis Kyriakakis. Additional items are a public forum, a Town Council liaison report, and discussion of next steps for the High School Advisory Members.

• Swearing in of Board Member Diamantis Kyriakakis to replace Andy Merlo
• Approval of minutes from the September 10, 2025 regular meeting
• Public Forum
• Health Officer report and Health Department Manager update
• High School Advisory Members: next steps, education and assignment

The Board of Health swore in alternate member Diamantis Kyriakakis as a full board member, replacing Andy Merlo. The board approved the minutes of the September 10, 2025 meeting; the vote tally is not clearly recorded in the minutes. Health Department updates included upcoming rabies and flu clinics, a community program at Zion Church, and other service notices. The meeting adjourned at 8:04 PM.

• Sworn in Diamantis Kyriakakis as full Board of Health member (replacing Andy Merlo)
• Approved minutes of the September 10, 2025 Board of Health meeting (vote tally not specified)

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council will consider two ordinances that appropriate funds: $7,000 from the Recreation Trust Fund for renovating community‑center gym bathrooms, and $31,000 from the Capital Surplus Fund for acquiring police body cameras. The council will also vote on several resolutions, including funding for a watershed improvement plan, a bid for vegetative waste removal, and hiring substitute plumbing and mechanical inspectors. All items are on the October 7, 2025 work meeting agenda.

• Ordinance to renovate gym bathrooms at the Community Center, appropriating $7,000 from the Recreation Trust Fund
• Ordinance to acquire body cameras for the Police Department, appropriating $31,000 from the Capital Surplus Fund
• Resolution authorizing funds to Boswell Engineering for the Watershed Improvement Plan Phase I
• Resolution authorizing a bid for vegetative waste removal
• Resolution authorizing hiring of substitute plumbing and mechanical inspections and plan review inspectors

The Westwood Borough Council adopted Ordinance #25-25 to equip police with body cameras, appropriating $31,000. It also adopted Ordinance #25-24 for gym bathroom renovations, appropriating $7,000. Council approved a week without parking meter enforcement from Dec 19 to Dec 26 and approved the consent‑agenda resolutions. The library expansion discussion was tabled pending the final parking study.

• Adopted Ordinance #25-25 for police body cameras, appropriating $31,000 (unanimous yes)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-24 for gym bathroom renovations, appropriating $7,000 (unanimous yes)
• Approved holiday parking meter suspension Dec 19‑26 (unanimous yes)
• Approved Consent Agenda resolutions #25-253‑#25-261 (unanimous yes)
• Tabled library expansion discussion pending final Parking Study
• Set to introduce Land Use Amendment Draft Ordinance at next meeting with $125 residential and $500 commercial fees
• Set to introduce Draft Bicycle Ordinance at next Mayor and Council Meeting
• Agreed to place drainage‑related resolution on next meeting agenda

Zoning Board

The Westwood Zoning Board will hold public hearings to consider several use and bulk variances. Key discussions include proposals for multi-family structures and mixed-use developments on Washington Avenue and Westwood Avenue.

• CJA Ventures LLC: Use variance for a 3-family structure at 78-84 Washington Avenue
• CJA Ventures: Use variance for 4 residential units on the second floor of 209-211 Westwood Avenue
• CJA Ventures LLC: Use variance for an offsite parking lot and garage expansion at 362 Kinderkamck Road
• Eagle Rock Realty Investments: Use variance and subdivision at 665 Broadway
• Martinez: Building and lot coverage variances for a family room addition at 56 Lincoln Avenue

The Zoning Board approved a minor subdivision at 96 Sand Road and two site‑plan variances for Bugging Out Brothers and Ronald Croney, each passing unanimously. The board also granted conditional approval for the 209‑211 Westwood Avenue mixed‑use project, with a 6‑1 vote meeting the five‑vote threshold. Two other applications were carried over to the November 3 meeting.

• Approved 96 Sand Road minor subdivision & certificate of non‑conformity (unanimous)
• Approved Bugging Out Brothers site‑plan for parking lot at 4 Bergen Street (unanimous)
• Approved Ronald Croney setbacks, height and lot‑coverage variances at 82 Elm Street (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved 209‑211 Westwood Avenue mixed‑use project (6‑1 vote)
• Carried ZB‑25‑0109 Martinez lot‑coverage variances to 11/3/25
• Carried ZB‑25‑0110 CJA Ventures use variance to 11/3/25

Historic Preservation Commission

The Westwood Historic Preservation Commission will approve the August 2025 meeting minutes and examine a $5,800 budget voucher that earmarks $1,200 each for the Westwood Trust Building and Veteran’s Park. The commission will also discuss ways to recognize homeowners who preserve historic structures, provide updates on the Revolution NJ Initiative for the 250th anniversary, and review ongoing and prospective historic designation projects.

• $5,800 budget voucher: $1,200 for Westwood Trust Building and $1,200 for Veteran’s Park
• Consideration of methods to acknowledge homeowners preserving historic elements (e.g., 224 3rd Ave)
• Update on Revolution NJ Initiative/Bergen 250th anniversary with speakers Marc Lorenc and Vivian Davis
• Progress on designation projects: Westwood Trust Building/Old Bank of America Building, Veteran’s Memorial Park, Pascack Movie Theater, Fireman’s Park, Westwood Train Station
• Future designation site list: Conrad’s Confectionery, Diner (1950s originals), Fireman’s Memorial Park, Westwood Library (49 Park Ave), Grace Episcopal Church, Berkeley Elementary School, Volz Hardware building

The commission approved the minutes from the August 2025 meeting. They approved an eight‑month social‑media services contract costing $900, authorizing the borough to encumber the funds. The commission also scheduled the dedication of a World War II anchor in Veteran’s Park for September 27, 2025. The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

• Approved August 2025 meeting minutes (6‑0)
• Approved 8‑month social media contract for $900 (6‑0)
• Scheduled World War II anchor dedication in Veteran’s Park (announcement)
• Motion to adjourn passed (6‑0)

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including funding for police body cameras and a gym bathroom renovation. The meeting also includes a closed‑session discussion of personnel matters, a fire cadet swearing‑in, and reports on road repaving and other municipal departments. Key resolutions cover a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 125, fire department bylaw changes, and a tax refund related to a County Tax Court judgment.

• Ordinance 25-24: Appropriates $7,000 from the Recreation Trust Fund for renovating gym bathrooms at the Community Center.
• Ordinance 25-25: Appropriates $31,000 for acquiring body cameras for the Police Department.
• Resolution authorizing a collective negotiation agreement with Teamsters Local 125 for Jan 1 2025 – Dec 31 2029.
• Resolution approving fire department bylaw amendments.
• Resolution authorizing a refund of taxes due to a County Tax Court judgment for Block 802 Lot 4.

The council approved a consent agenda that enacted resolutions on the bill list, tax refunds, a collective bargaining agreement, fire department bylaw changes, employee handbook revisions, and other items. Earlier, the council approved closed‑session Resolution #25‑242 and swore in two fire cadets via Resolution #25‑243. The September 2 minutes were also approved, and two ordinances were introduced for first reading.

• Approved Resolution #25‑242 (personnel, land lease, land use) – all present voted Yes
• Approved Resolution #25‑243 swearing in fire cadets – all present voted Yes
• Approved September 2, 2025 minutes – all present voted Yes
• Added Resolution #25‑250 authorizing a parking‑lot license agreement – all present voted Yes
• Added Resolution #25‑251 authorizing a deed of easement agreement – all present voted Yes
• Approved consent agenda covering Resolutions #25‑244 through #25‑251 (excluding #25‑245) – voice vote affirmative
• Introduced Ordinance #25‑24 (gym bathroom renovation, $7,000) – first reading
• Introduced Ordinance #25‑25 (police body cameras, $31,000) – first reading

Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees approved a resolution to apply for a New Jersey State Library grant to purchase 15 laptops and software for adult English Language Learners. The board also approved the 2026 holiday closing list and 2026 meeting dates.

• Application for Expanding Digital Literacy LSTA Grant Program to fund 15 laptops and software
• Approval of 2026 holiday closing list
• Approval of 2026 trustee meeting dates
• Treasurer's report showing total funds of $404,455,04 across checking, cash management, and capital accounts
• Discussion of a proposed building addition for review by Mayor and Council

The board accepted the corrected minutes from the August 18 meeting and approved the treasurer's financial report and current bills list. It also approved the 2026 holiday closing schedule and the trustee meeting dates for 2026. The trustees voted to apply for the Expanding Digital Literacy LSTA Grant program. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted August 18 meeting minutes (motion carried, two abstentions)
• Accepted treasurer's report (motion carried)
• Accepted current bills list (motion carried)
• Accepted 2026 holiday closing list (motion carried)
• Accepted 2026 trustee meeting dates (motion carried)
• Approved resolution to apply for Expanding Digital Literacy LSTA Grant (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Planning Board

The Westwood Planning Board will conduct its regular public meeting, covering standard items such as minutes, correspondence, resolutions, and non‑agenda public comments. The agenda includes a discussion of a CBD/SPE zone under the variances, subdivisions and site plans category, and a swearing‑in ceremony for board professionals. No specific decisions or contracts are listed.

• Opening of the meeting with Open Public Meetings Law statement
• Discussion of CBD/SPE Zone
• Swearing‑in of board professionals
• Resolutions (unspecified)
• Public hearing for non‑agenda items

The Planning Board voted to open the meeting to the public and later closed it after no public comments. The minutes from the August 27 meeting were approved unanimously. The board approved the instructional‑use amendment for the CBD/SPE zone and will forward it to the mayor and council. No other actions were taken.

• Motion to open meeting to public carried (Ann Costello motion, Keith Doell second)
• Motion to close meeting to public carried
• Minutes of 8/27/25 approved unanimously (Keith Doell motion, Ann Costello second)
• Instructional‑use amendment for CBD zone approved (Beth Staples motion, Keith Doell second; all members voted yes)

Board of Health

The Westwood Board of Health will swear in Alternate Member Diamantis Kyriakakis to replace Andy Merlo as a full board member. The board will also approve Ordinance 25-22, which adds student members to the board. Minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting will be approved, and the Health Department Manager and Health Officer will give updates.

• Swearing in of Alternate Board Member Diamantis Kyriakakis to replace Andy Merlo as full Board Member
• Approval of Ordinance 25-22 to include student members on the Board of Health
• Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of June 11, 2025
• Health Department Manager update
• Activities and Health Officer Report and Furama update

The Board of Health swore in Alternate Member Diamantis Kyriakakis as a full board member. Ordinance 25-22, adding two student members, was approved. The minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting were adopted. A closed‑session was authorized and the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM.

• Swore in Alternate Board Member Diamantis Kyriakakis as full member
• Approved Ordinance 25-22 to include two student members
• Adopted minutes of the regular meeting of June 11, 2025
• Authorized closed session
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 PM

Shade Tree Advisory Committee

The Westwood Shade Tree Committee will review August tree work, including 11 trees removed and 32 trimmed, and address resident inquiries regarding tree health and power lines.

• August: 11 trees removed, 32 trimmed
• YTD: 73 trees removed, 192 trimmed, 35 planted
• 34 St. Nicolas Ave: Arborist inspection and PSEG removal
• 349 Kinderkamack Rd: Spotted lantern fly infestation
• 229 Mill St: PSEG Forestry Service trimming approved

The Shade Tree Committee approved its meeting minutes and a CFMP proposal. The borough hired arborist Liz Stewart to develop a Community Forest Management Plan for 2026‑2030, with a draft expected in November 2025. Student volunteer Kaitlyn McKay was assigned to write a resident letter about shade‑tree planting locations. The Shade Tree Trust account balance was noted as $1,438.72.

• Approved meeting minutes
• CFMP proposal approved
• Engaged Liz Stewart to develop 2026‑2030 Community Forest Management Plan
• Tasked Kaitlyn McKay with drafting resident letter on shade‑tree planting

Recreation Advisory Board

The Recreation Advisory Board approved the June 2025 minutes after a motion and second. Old business on committee assignments was tabled. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved June 2025 minutes (motion passed, seconded)
• Tabled old business on committee assignments
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board approved the application (ZB-25-0108) for a new detached garage at 82 Elm Street, granting setback, height, and lot‑coverage variances with conditions that no heating, air‑conditioning, plumbing, or occupancy be provided. All board members voted yes. All other pending items were carried over to the October 6, 2025 meeting.

• Approved ZB-25-0108 – garage variances for 82 Elm Street (unanimous)
• Carried ZB-25-0107 – Bugging Out Termite & Pest Control site plan to 10/6/25
• Carried ZB-25-0501 – 96 Sand Road minor subdivision to 10/6/25
• Carried ZB-10-2000-24-0106 – Eagle Rock Realty use variance to 10/6/25
• Carried ZB-25-0109 – Martinez family room addition to 10/6/25
• Carried ZB-24-0115 – CJA Ventures mixed‑use variance to 10/6/25
• Carried ZB-25-0104 – CJA Ventures off‑site parking variance to 10/6/25

Borough Council

The Borough Council approved Resolutions #25-232 through #25-241, covering budget items, opioid settlement, police staffing, alcohol events, hiring, parking enforcement, planning services, bidding thresholds, and a forestry plan. It also approved the implementation of three Grab‑and‑Go loading zones starting September 15, denied a handicapped parking request at 536 Fourth Avenue, and directed further review of a tree‑preservation ordinance and a minor‑construction application process. The council adopted the 2026 holiday calendar, meeting schedule, and the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting, and approved Resolution #25-231 in closed session.

• Approved Resolutions #25-232 through #25-241 (budget, opioid settlement, police, events, hiring, parking, planning, bidding, forestry)
• Approved Grab‑and‑Go loading zones at Madison Ave, Center Ave, Fairview Ave (start Sep 15, 10‑minute limit)
• Denied handicapped parking space request at 536 Fourth Avenue
• Sent tree‑preservation ordinance proposal to Shade Tree Committee for review
• Assigned Borough Attorney to study minor‑construction modification ordinance changes
• Adopted 2026 borough holiday calendar and council meeting schedule
• Approved minutes of the August 19, 2025 meeting
• Approved Resolution #25-231 in executive closed session

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the July 23, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. A motion to open the meeting to the public was made, seconded and carried, and the meeting was subsequently closed to the public by a carried motion. No resolutions, vouchers, variances, or land‑use decisions were adopted.

• Approved July 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened meeting to public (motion carried)
• Closed meeting to public (motion carried)

Parking Utility

The Parking Advisory Board will meet to discuss the status of employee hangtag distribution. The board will also review and approve minutes from the July 29, 2025 meeting.

• Status of the distribution of Employee Hangtags

The advisory board approved the minutes from the July 29, 2025 meeting. It also approved opening and then closing the meeting to the public, and adjourned the session, all by unanimous vote. The board approved a pilot “Grab and Go” program converting three loading zones to short‑term parking through October 31. No other business was acted upon.

• Approved July 29, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved opening the meeting to the public (unanimous)
• Approved closing the meeting to the public (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)
• Approved pilot “Grab and Go” program for loading zones on Center Ave, Madison Ave, and Fairview Ave

Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission is reviewing the status of several historic designation projects and planning for the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding. The body is also discussing ways to acknowledge homeowners who preserve historic elements during construction.

• Budget accounts and vouchers totaling $5,800, including $1,200 for Westwood Trust Building and $1,200 for Veteran's Park
• Designation projects in progress for Westwood Trust Building, Veteran's Memorial Park, Pascack Movie Theater, Fireman's Park, and Westwood Train Station
• Proposed future designations including Conrad's Confectionery, Westwood Library (49 Park Ave), and Grace Episcopal Church
• Discussion of Revolution NJ Initiative/Bergen 250th anniversary commemoration
• Review of homeowner acknowledgement for historic preservation at 224 3rd Ave

The commission approved the June 2025 meeting minutes. Members were assigned to request an additional report on the Pascack Movie Theater, begin social‑media posts in September, pursue a collaboration for Berkeley Elementary School’s 100‑year anniversary, and have a sub‑committee meet with the Westwood Heritage Society on September 3 regarding the Bergen 250th initiative. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved June 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Lou Scheideler tasked to request additional report for Pascack Movie Theater
• Camille Sesena to start Instagram and Facebook posts in September
• Lou Scheideler and Mike Bieri to pursue collaboration for Berkeley Elementary School 100‑yr anniversary
• Sub‑committee (Ann Costello, Noeline Grefrath, Jackie Martin, Rachel Berkoben) to meet with Westwood Heritage Society on 9/3 for Bergen 250th update
• Motion to adjourn passed

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council adopted Ordinance #25-22 amending the Board of Health membership and Ordinance #25-23 amending Chapter 375 bus stops, each passed by voice vote with all present voting affirmatively. The council also approved a package of resolutions numbered #25-211 through #25-230, covering items such as the bill list, community development representatives, surplus property auction, capital improvement cancellations, and a temporary Grab-and-Go Parking pilot program. All approvals were recorded as voice votes with affirmative votes from the members present.

• Adopted Ordinance #25-22 amending Board of Health membership – approved (voice vote affirmative)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-23 amending Chapter 375 bus stops – approved (voice vote affirmative)
• Approved Resolution #25-211 (Bill List and Statement of Cash) – approved (voice vote affirmative)
• Approved Resolution #25-212 (2025‑2026 Community Development Representatives) – approved (voice vote affirmative)
• Approved Resolution #25-213 (Auction of surplus property via GovDeals) – approved (voice vote affirmative)
• Approved Resolution #25-214 (Cancellation of General Capital Improvement Authorization Balances) – approved (voice vote affirmative)
• Approved Resolution #25-230 (Temporary Grab‑and‑Go Parking Pilot Program) – approved (voice vote affirmative)
• Approved remaining resolutions #25-215 through #25-229 covering various finance, public works, and community items – approved (voice vote affirmative)

Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees approved a contract for a legal review of the personnel manual and accepted the May audit results. The board also scheduled early closures and a full closure on Election Day to serve as a backup voting location.

• Contracted attorney for personnel manual review at a cost of $1,900
• Accepted treasurer's report showing total funds of $420,489.24
• Approved closing early on September 13 for WestwoodFest
• Approved delayed opening on September 18 for staff AED training
• Approved closing on Election Day to serve as a backup voting location

The board accepted the corrected July 21 minutes, the treasurer’s report, the bills list, and the audit results. It also approved contracting an attorney to review the personnel manual and authorized early closure on September 13, a delayed opening on September 18, and closure on Election Day. All motions carried.

• Accepted July 21 minutes (motion carried, MV abstained)
• Accepted treasurer's report (motion carried)
• Accepted bills list (motion carried)
• Accepted audit results (motion carried)
• Contracted attorney to review personnel manual (motion carried)
• Closed library early on September 13 for WestwoodFest (motion carried)
• Delayed library opening on September 18 for staff meeting (motion carried)
• Closed library on Election Day (motion carried)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment did not approve or deny the variance, site‑plan and bulk variance requests for 209‑211 Westwood Avenue (ZB‑24‑0115) and 362 Kinderkamack Road (ZB‑25‑0104). After testimony, the Board voted to carry the matters over to the next meeting on September 8, 2025, granting a time extension. No vote tally was recorded.

• Postponed decision on ZB‑24‑0115 (209‑211 Westwood Avenue) to 9/8/25 (no vote tally)
• Postponed decision on ZB‑25‑0104 (362 Kinderkamack Road) to 9/8/25 (no vote tally)

Shade Tree Advisory Committee

The committee approved the minutes from July 8, 2025. The draft letter to M&C was approved and Beth Staples will present it on August 19, 2025. The committee decided to review the historic tree ordinance draft at the September meeting and agreed to ask the arborist about a Hazardous Tree Management Plan for the Community Forestry Plan. Councilwoman Collins will seek clarification on jurisdiction of certain borough trees, and the chairman will obtain a printout of this year’s tree‑removal permits.

• Approved July 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved draft letter to M&C (Beth Staples to present Aug 19)
• Decided to review historic tree ordinance draft at September meeting
• Agreed to ask arborist about Hazardous Tree Management Plan
• Councilwoman Collins will seek clarification on tree jurisdiction
• Chairman will obtain printout of tree removal permits issued this year

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board approved three applications: an expansion of a non‑conforming two‑family home at 430 Fairview, a use variance for 15 Harold Street in a flood zone, and a minor subdivision with variances for 96 Sand Road. All three were approved unanimously among eligible members. Two pending items were carried over to the September 8 meeting.

• Approved Thanasides 430 Fairview expansion (4‑0)
• Approved Stellar Property Group 15 Harold Street variance (5‑0)
• Approved 96 Sand Road minor subdivision and variances (6‑0)
• Carried ZB-10-2000-24-0106 (Eagle Rock Realty) to 9/8/25
• Carried ZB-25-0109 (Martinez) to 9/8/25

Parking Utility

The board approved the minutes from the May 27, 2024 meeting. They voted unanimously to open the meeting to the public, though no public attended. The board agreed to postpone the employee hangtag distribution until additional employee and business data are gathered. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. by unanimous vote.

• Approved May 27, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened meeting to public (unanimous)
• Postponed employee hangtag delivery pending data collection (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Board approved the minutes from the June 12 meeting and opened the session to the public. No resolutions, vouchers, or new business were acted upon. Members reviewed a memo on allowing limited accessory instructional uses in the CBD/SPE zone and recommended further study. The discussion was continued and will be revisited at the August 27 meeting.

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board accepted the May 19 meeting minutes, the treasurer's report, and the current bills list. It approved a $4,000 budget line to make the website ADA‑compliant and kept the personnel manual unchanged. An early library closure for Westwood Fest was proposed, with a vote scheduled for the next meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted minutes of May 19 meeting (motion by BK, seconded NG, DF & LP abstained) – carried
• Accepted treasurer's report – carried
• Accepted current bills list – carried
• Personnel manual will remain unchanged to comply with ADA – no vote recorded
• Approved $4,000 line item for website ADA‑compliance upgrade – carried
• Proposed early library closure for Westwood Fest; board will vote at next meeting
• Welcomed Superintendent Dr. McQueeney – procedural
• Adjourned meeting – carried

Borough Council

The Borough Council approved Resolution #25-192 in closed session by unanimous voice vote. It introduced two ordinances—one amending Board of Health membership (Ordinance #25-22) and another amending bus‑stop regulations (Ordinance #25-23)—both passed on first reading by voice vote. The Council also opened a public hearing on Ordinance #25-21, which appropriates $13,000 from the Capital Surplus Fund to replace the Berkley Avenue/Lockerby Lane walkway.

• Approved Resolution #25-192 (closed session) – voice vote affirmative
• Introduced Ordinance #25-22 (Board of Health membership amendment) – first reading passed by voice vote
• Introduced Ordinance #25-23 (Bus stops amendment) – first reading passed by voice vote
• Opened public hearing for Ordinance #25-21 (walkway replacement, $13,000) – voice vote affirmative
• Approved June 17, 2025 meeting minutes – roll call Yes from all members
• Approved Eagle Scout post‑office beautification project – consensus affirmative
• Opened Agenda/Public Forum – voice vote affirmative
• Closed Agenda/Public Forum – voice vote affirmative

Shade Tree Advisory Committee

The committee approved the May 13, 2025 minutes and confirmed payment of the $19,517.80 invoice to the consulting arborist for the street‑tree inventory. It agreed to present the new inventory database to the Borough Council at the September workshop. The committee decided to draft and send its opinion to the Zoning Board regarding the 4 Bergen Street parking‑lot application. The DPW will install a Kissing Tree plaque in the coming weeks.

• Approved May 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Paid $19,517.80 invoice to Liz Stewart for street‑tree inventory and training
• Agreed to present the inventory database to the Borough Council at the September workshop
• Decided to draft and send a formal opinion to the Zoning Board on the 4 Bergen Street parking‑lot proposal
• DPW will install the Kissing Tree plaque within the next few weeks

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board approved the Planker driveway expansion at 498 Kinderkamack Road, the Thanasides home conversion at 430 Fairview, and the Stellar Property Group use variance at 15 Harold Street, each with unanimous affirmative votes from eligible members. Three other applications – Eagle Rock Realty at 665 Broadway, Ronald Croney at 82 Elm Street, and CJA Ventures at 209‑211 Westwood Avenue – were carried over to the August 4 meeting for further consideration.

• Approved Planker driveway expansion and lot coverage variance, 498 Kinderkamack Rd (all eligible yes)
• Approved Thanasides expansion, bulk and setback variances, 430 Fairview (all eligible yes)
• Approved Stellar Property Group use variance and site plan, 15 Harold St (all eligible yes)
• Carried Eagle Rock Realty use, subdivision, site‑plan and bulk variances, 665 Broadway to 8/4/25
• Carried Ronald Croney setback, height and lot‑coverage variances, 82 Elm St to 8/4/25
• Carried CJA Ventures mixed‑use site plan and variances, 209‑211 Westwood Ave to 8/4/25

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission approved the May 15, 2025 meeting minutes after a motion with amendments, which passed with all members voting in favor. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:58 pm following a motion that also passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved May 15 2025 minutes (motion passed, all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:58 pm (motion passed, all in favor)
• C. Scheideler to forward approved minutes to clerk for posting

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council approved two new ordinances—one amending parking prohibitions and another updating fire‑prevention regulations—both passed with unanimous Yes votes. The Council also confirmed the appointments of full‑time Officer Silvio Piccinich and part‑time SLEO Sean Griffin, again with unanimous support. Council members endorsed a 50‑family pilot for the Westwood Composting Initiative, and they approved the June 3, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved Resolution #25-176 appointing full‑time Officer Silvio Piccinich (unanimous Yes)
• Approved Resolution #25-177 appointing part‑time SLEO Sean Griffin (unanimous Yes)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-19 amending parking prohibitions (unanimous Yes)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-20 amending fire‑prevention code (unanimous Yes)
• Approved Eagle Scout Westwood Composting Initiative 50‑family pilot (consensus Yes)
• Approved minutes from June 3, 2025 (unanimous Yes)
• Introduced Ordinance #25-21 for Berkley Ave/Lockerby Lane walkway replacement ($13,000) – first reading passed
• Opened and closed public hearings for Ordinances #25-19 and #25-20 (voice votes affirmative)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the minutes of the May 22, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. A motion to open the June 12 meeting to the public was made, seconded and carried. No resolutions, vouchers, variances, or site plans were adopted. The board discussed the Affordable Housing Fair Share Plan but took no further action.

• Approved opening of meeting to public (motion by William Martin, seconded by Ann Costello, carried)
• Approved minutes of 5/22/25 meeting unanimously

Board of Health

The Westwood Board of Health formally approved the minutes from the April 9, 2024 meeting, the regular May 14, 2025 meeting, and the closed session of May 14, 2025. No other substantive actions or policy votes were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM.

• Approved minutes of the April 9, 2024 meeting
• Approved minutes of the regular May 14, 2025 meeting
• Approved minutes of the closed session of May 14, 2025

Borough Council

The council approved Resolution #25-159 in a closed session and ratified the May 20, 2025 meeting minutes. It introduced and adopted six ordinances covering parking prohibitions, fire prevention, flood‑damage prevention, filming, land‑use zoning, and parks and recreation, each passed by unanimous voice vote or roll‑call Yes. The council also added three new resolutions to the consent agenda.

• Approved Resolution #25-159 (closed session) – all members voted Yes
• Approved minutes of May 20, 2025 – all members voted Yes
• Adopted Ordinance #25-19 (Parking Prohibitions) – voice vote affirmative
• Adopted Ordinance #25-20 (Fire Prevention) – voice vote affirmative
• Adopted Ordinance #25-15 (Flood Damage Prevention) – voice vote affirmative
• Adopted Ordinance #25-16 (Filming) – voice vote affirmative
• Adopted Ordinance #25-17 (Land Use/Zoning) – voice vote affirmative
• Adopted Ordinance #25-18 (Parks and Recreation) – voice vote affirmative

Zoning Board

The Westwood Zoning Board of Adjustment approved five residential variance requests, including a two‑family expansion on Fourth Avenue and a pool setback on Bryant Place. It also denied an appeal by Kerri Quigley, upholding the zoning official’s original decision. All approvals were passed with unanimous votes from eligible members; Eric Oakes was not eligible to vote on those items.

• Approved Morales expansion at 359 Fourth Avenue (all eligible members yes)
• Denied Kerri Quigley appeal (all eligible members yes)
• Approved Dragona pool setback at 22 Bryant Place (all eligible members yes)
• Approved Wall bulk variances at 369 Center Avenue (all eligible members yes)
• Approved amended site plan for 247 Westwood Avenue (all eligible members yes)
• Approved Planker driveway and lot coverage variance at 498 Kinderkamack Road (all members yes)

Parking Utility

The board approved the March 25, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4‑aye vote. A motion to open the meeting to the public was unanimously approved, followed by a unanimous motion to close the meeting to the public after business. The board also unanimously adjourned the meeting. New parking items were tabled pending a borough‑conducted parking study.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (4 aye, 1 absent)
• Approved motion to open meeting to public (unanimous)
• Approved motion to close meeting to public (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled new parking business pending parking study

Planning Board

The Planning Board opened the meeting to the public and approved the minutes from the March 27 meeting. It unanimously approved the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corp.'s request to hold its annual carnival in the Kmart parking lot from July 22‑26. The board entered a closed session, later returned to open session, and adjourned the meeting.

• Opened meeting to public (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of 3/27/25 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corp. carnival in Kmart Parking Lot (unanimous)
• Entered closed session (motion carried)
• Returned to open session (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Borough Council

The council voted by voice to reopen the meeting, then opened and later closed the public agenda/forum with affirmative voice votes. The swearing‑in of Cadet Daniel McDermott, Jr. was tabled because he was ill. A motion to approve the May 6 minutes was made, and three ordinances (25‑15, 25‑16, 25‑17) were introduced on first reading.

• Reopened the meeting – voice vote affirmative (all present)
• Opened Agenda/Public Forum – voice vote affirmative (all present)
• Closed Agenda/Public Forum – voice vote affirmative (all present)
• Swearing‑in of Cadet Daniel McDermott, Jr. was tabled (illness)
• Motion to approve May 6, 2025 minutes was made – outcome not recorded
• Ordinance #25‑15 (Flood Damage Prevention) introduced – first reading, no vote recorded
• Ordinance #25‑16 (Filming) introduced – first reading, no vote recorded
• Ordinance #25‑17 (Land Use and Development) introduced – first reading, no vote recorded

Library Board of Trustees

The board accepted the minutes from the April 21, 2025 meeting. It accepted the treasurer’s report showing a total of $406,290.94 and approved the listed bills totaling $12,742.58. The board approved four new goals and objectives added to the library’s strategic plan. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 p.m.

• Accepted April 21, 2025 meeting minutes (passed)
• Accepted treasurer’s report showing $406,290.94 total (passed)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $12,742.58 (passed)
• Approved four new goals and objectives for the strategic plan (passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:55 p.m. (passed)

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission approved the February 20, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a social media proposal submitted by Camille Sesena. It also approved designation proposals submitted by Tim Adriance for consideration on April 22, 2026. The meeting was adjourned at 8:02 p.m.

• Approved February 20, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved social media proposal (motion passed)
• Approved designation proposals for April 22, 2026 (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:02 p.m. (motion passed)

Board of Health

The Board did not approve the minutes from the April 9, 2024 meeting because not enough eligible members were present, so approval was deferred to the June meeting. Members discussed raising fees for conditional re‑inspections, but no vote outcome was recorded. The Board scheduled the Art in the Park wellness fair for June 7 at Veterans Park. A motion to go into executive closed session was made and the session was entered.

• Approval of April 9, 2024 minutes postponed (insufficient members)
• Fee increase for conditional re‑inspections discussed; no vote recorded
• Art in the Park wellness fair scheduled for June 7 at Veterans Park
• Executive closed session entered after motion by Maria Costello

Shade Tree Advisory Committee

The Shade Tree Committee approved the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting. They recorded April 2025 tree work statistics and completed the street inventory update. The committee submitted paperwork for a $300 Bergen County Clean Communities grant to clean up Westvale Park. Tree City USA road signs were installed on Kinderkamack Road.

• Approved April 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Submitted paperwork for $300 Bergen County Clean Communities grant for Westvale Park cleanup
• Installed Tree City USA road signs on Kinderkamack Road

Borough Council

The Council approved Ordinance #25-12, a bond ordinance authorizing $1,045,000 for public improvements and equipment, and adopted it on final reading. It also adopted Ordinance #25-11 allocating $6,000 for Westvale Field dugouts and Ordinance #25-13 allocating $30,000 for a new phone system. Council agreed to lower the speed limit on Harrington Avenue to 30 mph, declined additional fire‑department incentives, and tabled Ordinance #25-14 on outdoor dining.

• Adopted Ordinance #25-12 bond authorizing $1,045,000 (voice vote unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-11 allocating $6,000 for Westvale Field dugouts (voice vote unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #25-13 allocating $30,000 for borough phone system (voice vote unanimous)
• Approved speed limit reduction on Harrington Avenue to 30 mph (Council agreed)
• Declined additional fire department incentives (Council consensus to say no)
• Tabled Ordinance #25-14 outdoor dining regulations (no discussion)
• Tabled Loading Zones/Grab‑&‑Go Parking issue pending consultant analysis (Council agreed)
• Tabled No Parking signs on Lafayette Avenue pending resident input (Council agreed)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board approved a pool setback and lot‑coverage variance for 22 Bryant Place, a bulk variance for a home addition at 369 Center Avenue, and an amendment to add decorative roof‑top lights at 247 Westwood Avenue. It also affirmed the Zoning Officer’s decision on the Kerri Quigley hobby‑crafts store appeal. Two other applications were carried over to the June 2 meeting.

• Approved Dragona pool setback and lot‑coverage variance (all in favor)
• Approved Wall bulk variances for front‑yard setback and building coverage (all in favor)
• Approved amendment to add roof‑top decorative lights at 247 Westwood Avenue (all in favor)
• Affirmed Zoning Officer’s decision on Kerri Quigley hobby‑crafts store appeal (all in favor)
• Carried Morales expansion variance to June 2, 2025
• Carried Planker application to June 2, 2025
• Carried 96 Sand Road application to June 2, 2025

Library Board of Trustees

The board accepted the March 24 meeting minutes with a correction, approved the treasurer’s report and the current bills list, and unanimously passed resolutions to move $50,000 from the checking account to a capital account and to adjust library staff salaries for 2025. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted March 24 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted treasurer's report (motion carried)
• Accepted current bills list (motion carried)
• $50,000 transferred from checking to capital account (unanimous)
• 2025 library staff salary adjustments approved (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn carried

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council approved the final reading of three ordinances: a mobile food‑vendor ordinance, a zoning amendment, and a parking‑prohibition ordinance. The council also introduced three new ordinances on recreation, bonds, and a phone system at first reading. In closed session, Resolution #25-116 was approved, and the April 1 minutes were adopted.

• Adopted Ordinance #25-8 (mobile food vendors) – final reading, voice vote affirmative
• Adopted Ordinance #25-9 (zoning amendment) – final reading, voice vote affirmative
• Adopted Ordinance #25-10 (parking prohibitions) – final reading, voice vote affirmative
• Introduced Ordinance #25-11 (dugouts for Westvale Field, $6,000) – first reading
• Introduced Ordinance #25-12 (bond for equipment, $1,045,000) – first reading
• Introduced Ordinance #25-13 (phone system, $30,000) – first reading
• Approved Resolution #25-116 (litigation, NJ Transit, personnel matters) – voice vote affirmative
• Approved April 1, 2025 closed‑session minutes – motion passed

Board of Health

The board approved the minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting. It voted to suspend the July and August Board of Health meetings. The discussion on fines and fees was deferred to the May meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of March 12, 2025 meeting (vote tally not specified)
• Approved suspension of July and August Board of Health meetings (vote tally not specified)
• Deferred fines and fee discussion to May meeting (no vote recorded)

Shade Tree Advisory Committee

The committee approved the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided to purchase and order 25 residential trees, specifying the species to be bought. The board approved placement of new Tree City road signs on Kinderkamack Road at the borough entrance. Members also agreed to pursue a borough‑wide oldest and largest tree contest at a future meeting.

• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Ordered 25 residential trees for planting
• Forwarded 46 reported trees to DPW for inspection/removal
• Decided Tree City road signs will be placed on Kinderkamack Road at borough entrance
• Agreed to discuss a borough‑wide oldest and largest tree contest at a future meeting

Zoning Board

The Westwood Zoning Board of Adjustment approved the bulk variances requested by DeTrizio for an addition at 15 Burger Place. The motion was made by Michael O’Rourke, seconded by Gary Conkling, and all eligible members voted yes. All other pending items were carried over to the May 5, 2025 meeting. The minutes of the March 3, 2025 meeting were also approved unanimously.

• Approved bulk variances for DeTrizio, 15 Burger Place (6-0 vote)
• Approved March 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Carried ZB-10-2000-24-0106 Eagle Rock Realty variance to 5/5/25
• Carried ZB-25-0102-247 Westwood Ave. rooftop lights amendment to 5/5/25
• Carried ZB-25-0104 CJA Ventures Kinderkamack Road variance to 5/5/25
• Carried ZB-24-0107 Dragona setback and lot coverage variance to 5/5/25
• Carried ZB-24-0110 Wall bulk variances to 5/5/25
• Carried ZB-24-0115 CJA Ventures mixed‑use variance to 5/5/25

Borough Council

The Westwood Borough Council adopted the 2025 municipal budget (Resolution #25-104) by unanimous vote. It also approved Resolution #25-101 to pursue a Bergen County Trust Fund grant for new children’s playground equipment at McKinley Park. Ordinance #25-3, allowing the budget to exceed appropriation limits and establishing a cap bank, was passed on final reading. Additional resolutions on EEOC compliance (Resolution #25-102) and a self‑examination of the budget (Resolution #25-103) were also approved, and three new ordinances were introduced for first reading.

• Adopted 2025 Municipal Budget (Resolution #25-104) – unanimous approval
• Approved Resolution #25-101 to seek playground equipment grant for McKinley Park – unanimous approval
• Passed Ordinance #25-3 (budget cap and appropriation limit exceedance) – unanimous approval
• Approved Resolution #25-102 (EEOC compliance certification) – unanimous approval
• Approved Resolution #25-103 (self‑examination of municipal budget) – unanimous approval
• Introduced Ordinance #25-8 (mobile food vendors) – first reading
• Introduced Ordinance #25-9 (zoning amendments) – first reading
• Introduced Ordinance #25-10 (parking prohibitions amendment) – first reading

Planning Board

The Board approved the minutes of the March 13 meeting and a motion to open the meeting to the public. It voted unanimously to forward the memo’s recommendations on CBD/SPE zone uses, prohibitions, and awning regulations to the Mayor and Council. A site‑plan application by HDR Holdings was withdrawn by the applicant.

• Approved minutes of 3/13/25 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved motion to open meeting to public (carried)
• Approved recommendation of zoning and use changes to Mayor and Council (unanimous)
• Recorded withdrawal of HDR Holdings site‑plan application (withdrawn by applicant)
• No vouchers, resolutions, or pending new business were acted upon

Parking Utility

The Advisory Board elected Gary Dragona as Chairman, Timothy Hampton as Vice‑Chairman, and Joseph Letizia as Secretary. It approved new meeting dates through December and voted to table committee appointments. The board unanimously approved swapping two employee parking spaces with two customer spaces in front of LoaHair on Broadway. Additional routine actions included approving prior minutes, opening and then closing the meeting to the public, and adjourning.

• Elected Gary Dragona as Chairman (5‑0 aye)
• Elected Timothy Hampton as Vice Chairman (5‑0 aye)
• Elected Joseph Letizia as Secretary (5‑0 aye)
• Approved meeting dates April 22, May 27, June 3, July 29, August 26, September 30, October 28, November 19, December 23 (5‑0 aye)
• Unanimously tabled committee appointments
• Swapped two employee spaces with two customer spaces in front of LoaHair (5‑0 aye)
• Approved minutes of May 14 2024, July 23 2024, and November 12 2024 (Nov 12 approved 3‑0‑2)
• Opened meeting to the public, then closed it and adjourned (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The trustees accepted the February meeting minutes and the treasurer's financial report. They unanimously passed a resolution to use operating reserves for a payment to the Borough of Westwood. The board also approved amendments to the Unattended Children’s Policy and accepted revisions to the library addition plans. Committee chair assignments were made for budget, policy, and personnel, with the building chair to be appointed at the next meeting.

• Accepted February 24 minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted treasurer's report showing $325,161.63 total (motion carried)
• Authorized use of operating reserves for payment to the Borough (unanimous)
• Accepted current bills list (motion carried)
• Amended Unattended Children’s Policy (motion carried)
• Accepted changes and revisions to original building addition plans (motion carried)
• Appointed budget, policy, and personnel committee chairs (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:18 p.m. (motion carried)