Connect with Westwood
Staying on top of what’s going on in Westwood is easier than ever! The Town has several options on a variety of platforms for all residents to find out what is happening in Westwood.
ALERT Westwood
ALERT Westwood is what the Town uses for all emergency notifications. Once enrolled, residents have the option to receive phone calls, text messages, emails, or a combination of those three options. It is our hope that with a more advanced software, we will be able to communicate with residents quicker than before.
To enroll in ALERT Westwood, please click here.
Westwood Wire
The Westwood Wire is an e-newsletter that goes out monthly. It includes a combination of news provided by the Town as well as news provided by local groups and organizations within the community.
To subscribe to the Westwood Wire, please click here.
Community Newsletter
The Community Newsletter is a quarterly print publication that is created and distributed by the Town. It highlights events, happenings, and news within Westwood through both Town and Community submissions. The Community Newsletter is mailed to all residents of Westwood four times a year.
Social Media
Westwood has two social media accounts that are actively updated. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter.
Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Website Notifications
Residents have the option to sign up for specific email updates of their choice. These email updates include everything as wide as general news or something as specific as a certain board or committee.
To see subscription options, please click here.
Looking to volunteer?
The town often has open positions on various Boards & Committees. If you are interested in any of the posted positions on our website, we encourage you to apply!
How to Apply
Any person who would like to be considered for an appointment to an open position should submit a resume and application/statement of interest, to the Westwood Select Board at phealey@townhall.westwood.ma.us or via mail to 580 High Street, Westwood, MA 02090
For more information, click here.
 Interested? Click the above photo for more information!
Water Safety
This summer has started off with record heat at times and enjoying a day at the pool or beach is a relief. Unfortunately, there have already been several tragic water related incidents in MA this season. Please see this important information on water safety from the CDC.
Water Safety Tips
Mosquito Control
The Town of Westwood is a member of the Norfolk County Mosquito Control District which provides mosquito control activities. The District conducts monitoring to detect disease, water management to prevent breeding of mosquitoes in existing drainage swales and systems, larval control to control mosquitoes before they become flying adults, and adult control to manage mosquitoes. Aerial larval applications are conducted over wetlands for nuisance control in the spring. Adult Control (Adulticiding) is conducted from truck-mounted equipment (mosquito spraying) and is conducted on a weekly basis, weather permitting in the evenings after sunset by request only.
Visit the District’s website at www.norfolkcountymosquito.org for more information.
Ticks
Did you know that the two most common ticks in Massachusetts are Deer Ticks and Dog Ticks? Ticks can transmit Lyme Disease. They feed on the blood of their host-humans, birds, reptiles, wild and domestic animals. One of the earliest symptoms of Lyme Disease is a rash that is circular with a clear center resulting in a “bull’s eye” appearance, which can occur 3 to 30 days after exposure. Call your doctor if you or your child gets a rash or fever after getting bitten by a tick. The proper way to remove a tick is with a tweezer:
- Grab the tick near its head or mouth (the part closest to your skin).
- Gently pull the whole tick straight out. Be careful not to crush or twist the tick.
- Wash your hands and the bite with soap and water.
- Put rubbing alcohol on the bite.
- Don’t use a hot match to kill and remove a tick
Make it a habit to check everyone in your house, including pets for ticks after spending time outdoors. For more information visit Tick Borne Disease Prevention
Westwood Private Well Regulations
Please be advised that this regulation requires that a water quality test be conducted and a copy of the results forwarded to the Board of Health office prior to a change in ownership of the property on which the private well is located. This applies to both drinking water and irrigation wells. Please refer to our website for the Private Well Regulations for more information on the required tests. If you have any questions please call the Jared Orsini, Health Director (781) 320-1026.
Sharps Collection Program
The Westwood Board of Health Sharps Collection Kiosk is located at the entrance to the Municipal Building, 50 Carby St., residents can bring their sharps in the appropriate container for disposal in the kiosk. The Health Department provides the red one-liter sharps containers free of charge to residents, please do not put loose needles or any other size container in the kiosk. Containers are also available at Town Hall and the Senior Center.
Medication Collection Program
The Westwood Board of Health and the Westwood Police Department have joined forces to collect expired prescription and over the counter medications for proper disposal. The Medication Collection Box is located in the lobby of the Police Station and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for residents.
The Assessor’s Office has relocated from the lower level to the first floor of Town Hall, directly across from the Tax Collector’s Office. The staff is very happy to be working side by side with the other members of the Finance Department, to provide convenient and efficient assistance to the residents.
The Assessor's office is continuing the State-required, periodic, cyclical inspections that had been planned right before the pandemic lockdown, of all properties in town to verify and update existing property data. Inspections will begin in mid-June and continue through September. Our Assessor John Curran and subcontractor KRT Appraisals will be canvassing the neighborhoods asking for the resident's cooperation in allowing inspections of the exterior and interior of your homes. An interior inspection takes approximately 15 minutes. A resident may choose to let the Assessor’s Office representative in when he shows up on your doorstep or to call our office at 781-326-1904, to schedule an appointment instead.
Personal Real Estate Exemptions for the Elderly, Veterans, and Others
Beginning July 1st, the Assessor's Office distributes and accepts applications for annual, personal real estate exemptions. (An exemption is a release or discharge from the obligation to pay all or a portion of a local property tax. Exemptions are established by the legislature for particular categories of property or persons and are generally found in G.L. c. 59, §5.) The Assessor's Office offers multiple options to assist the elderly, veterans, and others.
 You may request an application for one or more of the above clause categories, and more information by calling the Assessor’s office at (781) 326-1904 or via email assessors@townhall.westwood.ma.us
Property Tax Deferral
This program allows seniors (65 or over) to defer the payment of property taxes until the home is sold or the owner is deceased. Deferred taxes accumulate with interest accruing at 3%. Income is subject to State-approved level, currently $58,000 or less.
Click here for an application.
Aid to the Elderly and Disabled Tax Fund
The fund was established in 1999 to provide real estate tax relief by directly paying a portion of a resident’s tax bill. This fund is available to qualifying low-income, Westwood elderly and disabled residents. Since its inception, the fund has distributed $895,000. Over the years, the fund has assisted many long-time Westwood residents who wish to remain in the Town and homes they love. This year $95,200 was distributed to 54 qualified residents.
If you have any questions, about applying or donating to the fund please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at (781) 320-1015 or click here for more information.
Senior Tax Work-Off
The Town offers a senior work off program, in which senior residents (age 60 or older) commit to work a specific number of hours for a municipal department in exchange for a credit applied to a portion of their property taxes. The current property tax reduction is $1,500
 
We are opened and our regular programs are going strong!
Meals on Wheels:
Any Westwood resident 65 or older needing a daily meal please call HESSCO at 781-784-4944. PLEASE NOTE: If you are feeling food insecure, please let us know, we can confidentially help you!
Transportation Update:
We offer rides to grocery shop on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, medical rides on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and errands on Mondays and Fridays. Our most current newsletter with all the details can be found on the Town’s website or call us and we will send you a copy.
Day Trips are back!
Day trips with Trish:
Walmart Shopping Trip
Tuesday, July 27 at 9:00 AM
$3 per person Space is limited
Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville
Wednesday, August 4 … Leave the Center at 9am and will bring you back around 1:30. Enjoy a day of gambling and lunch (on your own) at the food court.
$8 per person. Space is limited.
Day trips with Fox Tours:
Tuesday August 17
Lake Winnipesaukee Cruise
$105*- Includes cruise, buffet luncheon, transportation.
Thursday September 9
Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip
$125 *—Includes ferry, transportation and tour of island, lunch on your own.
Thursday October 7
New Hampshire Turkey Train
$105*- Includes train ride aboard the Scenic Rail Dining Car, lunch and transportation.
*NOTE: A $15 non-refundable deposit is required within 10 days of signing up. Fox Travel requires that everyone show their vaccination card before entering the bus and must wear a mask at all times while on the bus. Fliers are available at the Center or we can mail one to you.
West Suburban Veterans’ Services District
WSVD would like to welcome Westwood veterans and their families to our district! On April 1st 2021, the town of Westwood joined the West Suburban Veterans’ District (WSVD). The West Suburban Veterans District represents the towns of Needham, Wayland, Wellesley, Weston, and now Westwood.
The Veterans’ Service District's essential function is to manage and participate in the administration of various benefits available to eligible veterans and their dependents from the Massachusetts Department of Veteran Services and the U.S. Veterans Administration. The Veterans’ Service Agent assists veterans in: assessing benefits (VA Healthcare, Disability Compensation & Pension, Burial Allowance, Survivors Benefits, Annuities, Home Loans, Education, Property Tax Exemptions, Welcome Home Bonus, and more..); providing financial assistance through the Commonwealth’s Chapter 115 Program; identifying federal, state, and local programs by providing referrals for employment and training, Social Security, housing, and medical care.
Staring on Monday July 12, WSVD will be at Westwood Council on Aging every Monday from 9 am - 3 pm and can be reached at (781)320-1008. WSVD staff led by Director Sarada Kalpee (Master Sergeant, US Army) - currently deployed until August 2021; Deputy Director, Nancy Blanchard (Sergeant First Class, USAR) and Sally Rose, Finance Administrator. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call our main office at (781) 489-7509 or email at nblanchard@westsuburbanveterans.com. Thank you to our military community, both past and present, for the sacrifices you’ve made for all of us!
Westwood Rotary Club
Coming this Fall, the Rotary Club of Westwood, together with the Westwood Council on Aging, will sponsor a “Flags for Heroes” program, with American Flags displayed adjacent to the Council’s offices. Westwood residents, and others, will have the opportunity to honor one or more of their heroes from every walk of life, by donating a flag in their heroes’ name. Keep an eye out for additional information for how to purchase your sponsorship or contact a member of the Rotary Club or email Mike at mike@razzalaw.com.
Here are a few of the regular programs offered all summer long:
Wonder Workout with Stephanie
- Mondays and Wednesdays 8-9 am – (NOTE NEW TIME)
- $3 donation - No class July 26
It is time to get back in shape! This high energy exercise class will get your heart pumping and your muscles toned. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle.
Low Impact Exercise with Sara
- Mondays and Wednesdays at 1p.m.
- $3 donation
Welcome Sara! Low impact class can be done standing or sitting in a chair. If you want a workout that will help you as you age, this is the class for you. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle.
Pilates with Mary
- Thursdays at 10:30 am
- $3 donation
Pilates is done primarily on a mat and will strengthen your core and abs. Please bring a water bottle and wear comfortable clothing.
Quilting Club with Helen
- Wednesdays
- 9-11am
- July 21/ August 11 & 25
- $3 donation
Do you have a quilting project that you would like to start? Or finish? Or would you like to learn how to quilt. Then stop in and join this fun group of quilters!
Current Conversations with Susan
A news program for people who want to stay engaged and up to date
- Wednesdays
- July 14 & 28
- August 11 & 25
- 9:00-11:00 am
- $5 donation
America is back on the move. In our bi-weekly conversations, we follow the latest political developments and news headlines, but also delve into the social trends of the day. A big question: How has the pandemic changed us? As vaccines rates go up and COVID cases go on, exactly what will our new normal look like? Join us as we share information and ideas in a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
Bridge with Diane
Do you enjoy a friendly game of Bridge? Then come play Bridge with this growing group of enthusiasts.
Drawing with Brenda
- Tuesdays 10-12 am
- Fridays 10-12 am
- $40 for 8 week class
- $35 for 7 week class
- Space is limited, so you must sign up in advance
Learn how to draw! Join our fun, interactive, drawing classes. Learn all about graphite, charcoal and pastel pencils, as well as related materials, paper and supplies. Draw along, step by step, with your instructor Brenda and learn through live demonstrations. Let’s get started, all you need is some sketch paper, pencils and an eraser!
These are just a few of our daily programs so check out our newsletter or stop by to say hi!
We miss everyone and cannot wait to see you all back at the Center!
WELCOME BACK EVERYONE!!!
The temporary records for students who attended Westwood Public Schools and who graduated, or who would have graduated in the years 2009 - 2014 will be destroyed on August 31, 2021. Any students interested in receiving these records must email jkinsman@westwood.k12.ma.us to make an appointment to pick them up before this date.
Sidewalk/Intersection Improvements:
- Clapboardtree/Winter Street Intersection currently underway
- Sidewalk improvements along High Rock, Hartford Street, and Pond Street slated to begin late June
- Town wide Crosswalk Improvements, slated to begin in July
FY2022 Paving Projects (July 6th-August 30th):
- Cranston Ave.
- Hartford Street (From Route 109 to Wessex)
- High Rock Street from Dover Road to Route 109
- Old Stone Road
- Orchard Circe
- Pheasant Hill Neighborhood
- Pond from Clap to Route 109
Please Note: Trash and Recycle barrels are the property of the Town of Westwood and cannot be moved from the residence.
EVERYTHING (trash/recycle/yard waste/etc.) TO BE COLLECTED MUST BE AT CURBSIDE BY 7AM ON YOUR SHCEDULED DAY. Any missed pick-ups (that were at curbside by 7am) need to be reported to dpw@townhall.westwood.ma.us or 781-251-2587 within 24 hours of your scheduled day.
For more information and any updates, please visit:
https://www.townhall.westwood.ma.us/departments/public-works
Update: We have a new Veteran's Service Officer!
If you have any questions about Veteran's Services in the Town of Westwood, please reach out to:
Nancy Blanchard
nblanchard@westsuburbanveterans.com
 
 The following sections are submissions provided by organizations within the community. If you have questions or would like to learn how to submit to the Westwood Wire, please email westwoodwire@townhall.westwood.ma.us
Beginning July 1, Eversource customer bills will reflect a decrease in the Delivery charge. This charge adjusts annually and covers costs associated with building and maintaining a reliable electric system.
Also, on July 1, customers that receive Basic Service from Eversource will see a decrease in the annual Basic Service charge. It is important to note that customers use 40% more energy during the summer months to keep cool. And likely, this increased energy use will be reflected in higher monthly bills during the summer season even though the overall rate is decreasing. The Basic Service rate does not apply to customers on competitive supply or municipal aggregation.
In looking out to the fall, commercial and industrial customers that receive Basic Service from Eversource, can expect to see the Basic Service rate adjust again. It’s unknown at this time if that adjustment will be an increase or a decrease, but we’ll be sure to provide you with an update as more information becomes available.
Eversource continues to work every day to promote payment assistance programs and energy-saving tools and services that can help customers lower energy use and reduce their bills.
The Westwood Young Women’s Club and Westwood Recreation will present the 2021 Summer Concert Series on July 12, 19, and 26 from 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. outdoors at the Westwood Senior Center gazebo (60 Nahatan Street, Westwood).
These family friendly events are free and open to the public, and will feature musical guests Stacey Peasley, The Bubble Music Man, and Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys.
Attendees are encouraged to practice social distancing and to bring blankets and chairs. Snacks will be available for purchase.
The series is proudly sponsored by Dedham Savings, Jam Time, Tobin School Westwood, Westwood Children’s School, and Wolfpack Baseball.
Visit https://WYWC.org for more information.
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