Select Board's Office

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.

Save the Date!

Boston 25 News Zip Trip- September 3, 2021

Boston 25 Morning News will be holding a “broadcast only” Zip Trip for Westwood on Friday, September 3, 2021. The Zip Trip will be broadcasted on Boston 25 News from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Unfortunately, due to COVID, Boston 25 News will not be welcoming live onsite crowds.  Over the next few weeks, the morning team will be visiting Westwood to meet with neighbors, talk to small business owners, and speak with town staff to share what they love about Westwood. More information will be posted to the town website as we get closer to the date.

Board & Committee Member Vacancies

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.

Westwood Police Department

With summer in full swing and fall on the horizon, the WPD wants to remind all residents that wildlife is a part of our community as well. As juvenile wildlife grow and start to feed themselves, they tend to be more visible and bolder than they normally are on their quest for meals. 

Coyotes have long been in Westwood and are occasionally spotted, or heard, by residents or specific neighborhoods. The WPD has received phone calls from residents who have spotted coyotes, looking for advice or further information on them. For additional information about how residents should handle wildlife encounters, please visit the WPD's website. 

Westwood Finance & Warrant Commission

Westwood Public Library

Westwood Youth and Family Services

Westwood Fire Department

Over the summer, the Westwood Fire Department had three senior members of the Department retire. Deputy Chief Richard Cerullo, 35 years of service, Senior Firefighter Jonathan Cook had 34 years of service and Firefighter Robert Mucciarone with 32 years of service. That is over 100 years of firefighting experience and institutional knowledge that we can no longer draw on. The Department would like to thank our newly retired members for their service to the Department and the Community. We would also like to wish them a long, healthy and happy retirement!

Westwood Recreation Department

Westwood Council on Aging

We are opened and we are so happy to welcome everyone back to the Center!

Our September/October newsletter will be delivered at the end of the month (copies available at the Center),or check out the town website for all program updates and times, and remember, your first class is always free!

MEALS ON WHEELS continues to grow; 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 AT THE CENTER

We offer rides to grocery store on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, medical rides on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and errands on Mondays and Fridays. Our most current newsletter has all the details and can be found on the Town’s website or call us and we will send you a copy.   

COME JOIN US ON OUR DAY TRIPS!

DAY TRIPS WITH TRISH

SPECIAL VAN TRIPS - Sign up in advance as space is limited.

USS Constitution Museum and Ship Tour – Wednesday, September 29.  Come for a tour on the USS Constitution which is the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy.  Lunch will be pay on your own near the shipyard. $20/person

ISABELLA STEWART GARDNER MUSEUM – Thursday, October 14. The Garden museum houses significant examples of European, Asian, and American paintings, sculptures and tapestries.  Lunch at Bertucci’s in Chestnut Hill (pay on your own).

$18 per person.

DAY TRIPS WITH FOX TOURS

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  

Service members, veterans and their families honor a few events for the months of September and October. Every day in the year we focus on continuing the fight to prevent suicides within our ranks. The goal in September and October is to reach out to those affected by suicide, raise awareness and connect individuals to treatment services. We also importantly honor our Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day on September 26th. To the families who have lost a son or daughter in the military, a gold star symbolizes a family member who died in the armed forces. Finally, lest we forget, September 11, a National Day of Service and Remembrance, also known as Patriot Day, commemorates the memory of the people killed in the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001. If you or someone you know may be in emotional crisis or thinking of suicide, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.

Sarada and Nancy, your Veteran Service Officers, are also readily available to assist in your veteran care. Please contact us at skalpee@westsuburbanveterans.com or 781-850-5504. They are available every Monday from 9-4 here at the Center.

FLAGS FOR HEROES 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 SOME OF OUR REGULAR PROGRAMS (these are just a sample of our many weekly classes):

WONDER WORKOUT with Stephanie and Priscilla

• Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 8-9 am
• $3 donation
• No class 9/6, 9/13 and 10/11
• $3 donation

Welcome Priscilla who will start teaching on Fridays beginning September 3. Start your morning with this high energy exercise class that 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
• No class 8/30, 9/1, 9/6 & 9/13, 10/11
• 1 pm

Staying fit as you age is imperative and this class is great for anyone starting out in this journey.  Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle.

PILATES with Mary

• Thursdays at 10:30 am
• $3 donation
• No class 10/28

Pilates is done primarily on a mat and will strengthen your core and abs.  Please bring a water bottle and wear comfortable clothing.

MAH JONG with Cynthia

• Thursdays
• 1 -3 pm
• No games on 10/28

Come join this growing group of Mah Jong enthusiasts.  New players are welcome (but you must know how to play).

We will be hosting a welcome back reception on Thursday September 2. Hope you can join us!

CURRENT CONVERSATIONS  with Susan

A news program for people who want to stay engaged and up to date

• Wednesdays
• 9:30-11:00 am
• $5 donation
• September 8 & 22 / October 13 & 27

Congress is tackling a mountain of legislation this fall. Infrastructure,  family leave, universal kindergarten, climate change, tax reform, social justice  — it’s all on the table.  The question is - can divided country and divided nation get anything done?  Join us for some spirited and friendly conversation.

LINE DANCING with Paul

• Mondays
• 10:00 am-$3 donation
• No class 9/6,& 9/13. 10/11

This 60-minute beginner line dancing is great fun while you improve memory skills, strengthen bones, develop better balance, relieve stress, and put a smile on your face. Each dance is broken down first, demonstrated and then danced to contemporary music that you will enjoy! NO need to have a partner, it is something for everyone and no experience is necessary!    

YOGA With Bonnie

• Tuesdays and
• Thursdays
• Floor Yoga 8am
• Chair Yoga 9:30 am
• $3 donation
• No class 9/2, 10/26 & 10/28

Bonnie writes:

Bonnie is back and very much looking forward to getting back to the old “usual” routine.  She states “I think the sense of isolation has been as bad as the physical worry that COVID brought”.  Here’s to stretching our bodies and calming our minds. See you back at the center in September.

Tai Chi with Scotty

• Tuesdays at 1pm
• $3 Donation
• No class 10/26

Many studies have shown T'ai Chi and QiGong to be two of the most effective exercises for preventing falls. They both emphasize breath control, balance, muscle memory development, meditation and will improve muscular strength, flexibility and stamina as well. 

MEDITATION with Soni

• Tuesdays
• 11:00am – 11:30am
• Sept. 14& 28, Oct. 12

Explore a way to have peace of mind in your life with Meditation. Understand what triggers stress and anxiety in our lives and learn how to harness your inner powers to maintain a stable and unshakable mind in any situation or relationship. The session will be done while seated. All are welcome!

HERE ARE SOME OF OUR SPECIAL PROGRAMS IN SEPTEMBER:

BWH CANCER SCREENING VAN

At the Center Thursday September 16

9– 1pm BY APPOINTMENT

Brigham and Women’s Health Care Center at Westwood will be taking its Dermatologists on the road! We are pleased to host the Brigham and Women’s / Dana Farber skin cancer screening van in the COA parking lot from 9AM till 1PM on September 16.   Please call the Center to sign up for a half hour appointment in advance.

SHREDDING DAY

Sponsored by District Attorney

Michael Morrissey

Tuesday September 14  - 10am– 1pm

No cost for this program but please bring your material in easy to lift (not too heavy) paper bags.

You are invited to quickly and safely dispose of sensitive and personal documents to further protect yourself from identity theft and fraud.  Shred tax, financial, legal and other confidential documents for free and on site. Please remove 3 ring binders and large binder clips.  It is not necessary to remove paper clips, staples and/or elastics.

SEPTEMBER COOKING CLASS AT POWISSET FARM

Come join the fun at beautiful Powisset Farm in Dover and learn some new cooking techniques. We meet at Powisset Farm at 11am. $20 per class which includes lunch. (Note: No take home food will be allowed).  You must sign up in advance as space is limited

September 15—Pizza on the Farm—In this hands-on class, Chef Thi demonstrates the process of making pizza from start to finish. She'll show you how she makes her dough and cooks it perfectly using the outdoor oven. You'll make dough, sauce and prepare vegetables from Powisset Farm to be incorporated as toppings. At the end of the class, participants will gather together to enjoy the pizza they created.  Delicious!

Lunch and Learns in September

Noontime - $4 donation

You must sign up in advance as space is limited

Monday September 27 - COVID 19—What comes next?  with BIG Y pharmacist Eddie Martucci.  Come hear an  overview of the pandemic to date, talk about vaccine rates, variants, boosters and seasonal flu vaccinations.  Bring your questions and concerns. A light lunch will be offered.

SPECIAL LECTURES IN SEPTEMBER - $3 Donation

You must sign up in advance as space is limited

Tuesday September 28  - 1pm—Fraud Prevention with Needham Bank Representatives from Needham Bank will share a presentation that provides details on how scams work, how to protect yourself from falling victim, and what to do if your information has been compromised.

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!!!

Westwood School Department

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.

Westwood Department of Public Works

Sidewalk/Intersection Improvements:

• Clapboardtree/Winter Street Intersection currently underway
• Sidewalk improvements - Pond Street
• Town wide Crosswalk Improvements ongoing

FY2022 Paving Projects (July 6th-August 30th):

• Cranston Ave - August 12th
• Hartford Street (From Route 109 to Wessex) – Beginning August 16^th
• High Rock Street from Dover Road to Route 109 – Beginning August 16^th
• Old Stone Road – August 18^th
• Orchard Circe – August 18^th
• Pheasant Hill Neighborhood - DONE
• Pond from Clap to Route 109 – August 16^th

Save the Date:

• 1-Day Delay for Trash and Recycle collections the week of September 5, 2021 in honor of the Labor Day holiday (Monday, 9/6/21)
• September 18, 2021 (Saturday) is Westwood Household Hazardous Waste Day
• The week of September 20^th is Yard Waste collection week
• The week of October 11^th is Bulk Collection Event
• October 16, 2021 (Saturday) is Westwood Recycle Day

For more information, visit https://www.townhall.westwood.ma.us/departments/public-works/recycling-waste-management

Trash and Recycle barrels are the Town of Westwood property and cannot be moved from the residence (it is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain and clean).

EVERYTHING (trash/recycle/yard waste/bulk, 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

Yard Waste to be collected must be at curbside by 7am on your scheduled 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.

Yard Waste Collection Weeks for 2021: 

• September 20 - 24
• October 4-8
• November 1-5 (every week in November)
• November 8-12
• November 15-19
• November 22-27 (1-day delay due to Thanksgiving holiday, Th - Sat)
• 29-December 3  

Yard Waste Collection Requirements:

• Leaves must be placed in paper leaf recycling bags or loosely in barrels that are clearly marked "leaves." Do not put yard waste in your Westwood Recycling or Trash barrel for disposal.
• Each barrel and/or bag shall not exceed 45 pounds. Anything in excess of 45 pounds will not be collected.
• No plastic bags can be collected with yard waste, as they will cause the entire truck load to be rejected at the composting site.
• Place barrels and bags curbside by 7:00 AM on your trash pickup day and Waste Management has until 6:00 PM to pickup
• DO's:  grass clippings, leaves, weeds, small twigs
• DONT's:  rocks, stones, gravel, sand, dirt, wood, plastic, bags exceeding 45 pounds

• Missed Pickup:  If your leaf bags were out by 7:00 AM on your regular trash day and were not picked up by 6:00 PM please contact the DPW office via email or (781) 251-2587 within 24 hours and we will schedule a pickup with Waste Management. We cannot schedule yard waste pickups after the scheduled collection week has ended. Thanks for your help!

The Town does not pick up brush, branches, and limbs unless they fall from a public tree. Please call the Westwood Fire Department at (781) 326-3885 for more information on private burn permits.

Paving Update

On Monday, August 16^th, paving construction will begin on roadways that were included in the Crosswalk and Intersection Project.  Work hours will be 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.  The roads that are going to be included in this work are:  High Rock Street, Hartford Street (from Route 109 to Wessex), Pond Street (from Circuit to Route 109 by the Sheehan School end) and Clapboardtree Street (from Pond Street to Abbey Road).  Roads will be milled in the previously mentioned order, castings will then be adjusted and final paving will be the last piece of work.  Work on High Rock Street will require road closures and detours for all three pieces of this work due to the narrowness of the roadway.  The remaining roads will also have detours and limited road closures during this work.  Please plan for additional time traveling through these locations.  Police details will be present to assist with traffic control. 

On Friday, September 3^rd, final paving to the Clapboardtree Street and Winter Street Intersection Project will be completed.  This work should only take half a day and will begin at 7:00 a.m.  Paving will require road closures and detours will be set up to avoid this intersection during the work.  Police details will be present to assist in traffic control.

Residents on any of these roadways will have access to their driveways, however will experience delays if paving is occurring near your property.

If you have any questions or concerns,

please contact the Department of Public Works at 781-326-8661.

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  

Westwood Girl Scouts

Town of Westwood

www.townhall.westwood.ma.us

Enjoy these monthly updates? Please share them with family & friends and encourage them to sign up on our website.