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

Westwood uses ALERT Westwood for all non-emergency and emergency notifications. Once enrolled, residents have the option to receive notifications via 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. 

For past copies of the Community Newsletter, please click here

Social Media

Westwood has two social media accounts that are actively updated. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter.

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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.

Select Board seeking volunteers for Boards and Committees

Are you interested in serving your community?  The Town of Westwood is looking for residents to volunteer to serve on many of its local Boards, Committees or Commissions.  You can choose your area of expertise from Finance to Environmental to better serve your community.  Resident participation results in a stronger and more responsive local government. Please see here for the Boards and Committees currently seeking members. 

John J. Cronin Public Service Award

The John J. Cronin Public Service Award is named for the late John J. Cronin, Town Treasurer, who for many years selflessly gave his time for the betterment of the community, both as an elected official and in numerous volunteer activities within and outside the community. Nominations are now being accepted for the 2022 John J. Cronin Public Service Award until March 7, 2022. The award will be presented at the 2022 Annual Town Meeting, scheduled for May 2, 2022. 

Nominees should possess leadership; exceptional service to the community; years of dedication; strong work ethic; diversity of service; volunteerism; and dedication to the Westwood community. 

Please contact the Select Board Office at selectboard@townhall.westwood.ma.us or at 781.326.4172 with any questions. Nomination forms can be mailed to the Select Board Office at 580 High Street, Westwood MA or submitted via email. 

John J. Cronin Public Service Award Nomination Form

Westwood Health Department

On February 27, 2022, the Board of Health’s face covering mandate in municipal buildings expired.  The decision to allow the face covering mandate to expire was based largely on our declining case count and lower test percent positivity.  The mandate has been replaced by an advisory that unvaccinated and immunocompromised continue to wear a face covering in all indoor public spaces.  The Board of Health encourages all residents to continue to wear a face covering indoors if they are more comfortable doing so. The MA Department of Public Health (MADPH) issued an updated face mask advisory on February 15, 2022.  To read the full text of the advisory please visit ;  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-mask-requirements. The Westwood Board of Health and Council on Aging have purchased at home COVID-19 test kits to be distributed to those in need of a test. Seniors, if you find yourself in need of an at home COVID-19 test, please call the Council on Aging at 781-329-8799.  For all others, please call the Board of Health’s COVID-19 hotline at 781-320-1085 and leave a message.  Please include your name, address, phone number, and the number of people in your household.  These tests will be distributed on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. Please know that demand for test kits is still very high and we have only been able to purchase a limited number of tests to distribute.  The Board of Health has also worked with our IT Department to create a positive at home COVID-19 test result report form for anyone who tests positive using our test kit or any other at home kit.  Please visit www.westwoodma.gov and click on the link at the top that reads "Click Here to Submit a Positive COVID-19 Home Test".

Westwood Town Clerk

NEWS FROM THE TOWN CLERKS OFFICE

• Dog licensing began January 1, 2022, and will continue through March 31, 2022
• You may license your dog online, in person, or, by mail, provided you include a copy of a current rabies certificate.
• If you are licensing your dog for the first time, proof of spay or neutering is also required.
• Licenses will be valid from January 1, 2022, until December 31, 2022.
• You must license your dog on an annual basis.

• If you own more than four (4) dogs, this is considered a “Personal Kennel” per MGL c. 140 §136A. You must go through a special permit application process through the Zoning Board of Appeals to license a kennel.   
• Failure to license your dog on or before March 31, 2022, may result in a fine of $25.00, per town bylaws 184-10, C. (1).
• Please contact the Town Clerks office if you no longer have a dog(s) so we may update our records.

• Dogs not Neutered or Spayed: $15.00
• Dogs Neutered or Spayed:     $10.00
• Residents ages 70 or older the fee is waived for one dog per household
• Postage (if licensing by mail): $1.00
• Kennel fees-please contact the Town Clerk’s office

Please be sure to include the correct licensing fee.  If you are unsure, please contact the Town Clerks office.

2022 Annual Town Census (Annual Street Listing)

What is the purpose of the annual town census/street list?

Massachusetts General Laws require that cities and towns conduct an annual census of its residents as of January 1st of each year. The local census data is used to maintain voting and jury lists as well as aid in school enrollment projections, public safety, senior citizens’ needs, veterans’ benefits and proof of residency.

A census form was recently mailed to each household. If you do not receive one, please contact the Town Clerks office or click here to download a form.

It is extremely important that you fill out the census form and return it within 10 days of its receipt.  You may also scan and email your completed and signed form to census @townhall.westwood.ma.us.

 Failure to return the Annual Town Census may cause a voter to be designated as inactive on the voting list (M.G.L, Ch.51, § 4).

It is important to note that you may not register to vote or change parties via a census form.

For information on Registering to vote or changing political parties please click here.

Early voting by mail and in person was only permitted in local elections through December 15, 2021, however if you qualify, you may vote by absentee ballot for elections occurring in 2022.  You must file a new application annually, which is good for a calendar year.  

To qualify for an absentee ballot, you must:

• Be away from your city/town on Election Day; or
• Have a disability that keeps you from voting at your polling place; or
• Have a religious belief that prevents you from voting at your polling place on Election Day

 Annual Town Election

• The Annual Town Election will be held on Tuesday, April 26, 2022
• Nomination papers are currently available  for those registered Westwood voters who wish to run for town elected positions.
• Last day to obtain nomination papers will be on Friday, March 4, 2022. The Town Clerks office will be open until 5:00pm.

The following elected offices will appear on 2022 Annual Town Election Ballot:

• Board of Assessors - 1 Seat - 3 Year Term
• Collector of Taxes-1 Seat-1 Year Term (to fill a vacancy)
• Library Trustee - 2 Seats - 3 Year Terms
• Moderator - 1 Seat - 1 Year Term
• Planning Board - 1 Seat - 1 Year Term (to fill a vacancy)
• Planning Board-2 Seats-3 Year Terms
• School Committee - 2 Seats -3 Year Terms
• Select Board - 1 Seat - 3 Year Term
• Sewer Commission - 1 Seat - 3 Year Term

Due to the increase in Westwood’s population over the last decade, we have had to make some adjustments to our precinct lines.   Each registered voter will receive information in early April 2022 regarding any changes that will be made to their polling location.

Westwood Islington Branch Library

The Islington Branch Library located at 273 Washington Street (Wentworth Hall) is now OPEN! Islington Branch Library hours are as follows: Mondays:       10:00 am to 6:00 pm Tuesdays:      10:00 am to 6:00 pm Wednesdays: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Thursdays:     10:00 am to 6:00 pm We look forward to seeing you at the new space!

Westwood Public Library

Westwood Council on Aging

UPDATES FROM THE COA Please join us for any of our exciting programs! And remember your first class is always free!  Check our most current newsletter for a complete list of our activities and transportation details.  It can be found on the Town’s website or call us and we will send you a copy.   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 stores on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, medical appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and errands on Mondays and Fridays.   FREE MASKS AND TEST KITS NOW AVAILABLE AT THE CENTER We have partnered with the WFD and BOH to offer two free N95 masks and one COVID test kit (each box has two tests) per household.  You must be a Westwood resident over 60 to receive these supplies and you must sign a register so we can keep track of any household who accepts these supplies. Stop by the Center and ask the receptionists for your two free masks and COVID test kit. SPECIAL PROGRAMS AT THE SENIOR CENTER   HOME SAFETY – COA Partnership with the WFD The Westwood Fire Department is running a Fire Safety and Fall Prevention program and is offering free home safety inspections to seniors in town.  The program was developed by the National Fire Prevention Association in order to help seniors live safely at home for as long as possible.   Westwood Firefighters (adhering to all proper COVID precautions) will do a quick safety check of your home and provide you with tips to keep you safe.  They will assist you in replacing old smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors or batteries.  Detectors and batteries are paid for through charitable donations and are free of charge to you.  To take advantage of this great opportunity, please call the Council on Aging at 781-329-8799 to sign up for your free home safety inspection.  Someone from the Fire Department will then contact you to schedule your appointment.   DAY TRIPS - We are back on the road!  Please sign up soon as these trips fill up fast.   June 21 - Casablanca by the Sea - Maine - Transportation, Island/Seal Harbor tour, lunch and shopping at the Old Port in Portland Maine - $115.00 pp. $15 non-refundable deposit at sign up. July 21 - Nantucket Fast Ferry - Transportation and ferry ride to Nantucket - $125.00 pp—$15 non– refundable deposit at sign up.   More are being planned so stop by and pick up flyers! Hope you will join us!   Special Day Trips with Our Senior Center Van Wednesday, March 30 - Plainridge Casino - $10 per person - Van leaves Center at 9 am Thursday, April 21 - Concord Museum - $18 pp - The Concord Museum is the one place where all of Concord’s remarkable past is brought to life through an inspiring collection of historical, literary, and decorative art treasures. Lunch at the Colonial Inn.  Leave Center at 9:00—trip includes transportation and tickets to the Museum (lunch on your own).   LEGAL CLINIC for Westwood Residents only with Attorney Ochea - MetroWest Legal Services 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY March 23, 2022 This private 20 min. free legal consultation to seniors on housing, public benefits and social security matters, durable power of attorney.   WESTWOOD WOMAN’S CLUB with Margaret Thursdays at 1:30 March 17 & April 28 Sign up in advance   In March, the club will celebrate St. Patty’s Day with great catered food and music! In April, Sean from the Audubon Society will present a lecture of spring bird watching.  Please sign up in advance so we know how many to expect.   HESSCO NUTRITIONIST AT THE COA Come meet with Nutritionist, Kelsey, for her monthly office hours at the Center. Tuesdays March 8 and April 12 1:30-3:30 by appointment only No cost to this program. Open to discuss the following topics: overall healthy eating and recipes; diabetes education; heart disease education and anything else you would like to discuss! And any other nutrition topics you would like to discuss.    HERE ARE SOME OF OUR REGULAR PROGRAMS (just a sample of our many weekly classes – check out our newsletter for further information):   WONDER WORKOUT with Stephanie and Priscilla Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 8-9 am $3 donation 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. PILATES with Mary Tuesdays at 10/ Thursdays at 10:30 $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.   MAH JONGG with Cynthia Thursdays 1 -3 pm Come join this growing group of Mah Jongg enthusiasts.  New players are welcome (but you must know how to play). Hope you can join us!   LOW IMPACT EXERCISE With Alex Mondays & Wednesdays 1 pm $3 donation Alex will get your muscles toned and body ready for summer  with this low impact exercise class.   QUILTING CLUB with Helen Wednesdays March 9 & 23 9-11am $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!   CURRENT CONVERSATIONS with Susan A news program for people who want to stay engaged and up to date Wednesdays  March 9 & 23 9:30-11:00 am $5 donation   What’s ahead in 2022? Will we finally manage COVID? Tackle Climate Change? And there are the midterm elections coming this fall. Can Republicans flip Congress?  If you are looking for a friendly group to make sense of the all the world events – or just catch up on the news – then come join us!   Hiking Club with Maria and Angie Tuesdays at 9:15am You must sign up in advance Angie and Maria will get in touch with you Senior hikes will continue to be offered in the spring every Tuesday at 9:30 am. Participants will need to have insulated and waterproof boots, microspikes or similar traction devices, and poles. Leaders will send the information about the next hike to the distribution list the week before.  If you are interested in joining the group, please contact the Center. Angie or Maria will then contact you. Our hikes take place in Westwood and surrounding towns and are from 2 to 3.5 miles in length. So come join us! We are warm and welcoming and would love to meet you!

Westwood Department of Public Works

December 1^st to March 31^st: Overnight Parking Ban/Restrictions       

Starting December 1^st to March 31^st, there is a Town wide overnight parking ban.  In order to ensure snow plows can efficiently clear roads and emergency vehicles can quickly reach their destinations, it is imperative that you do not park on the street.  The Public Works Assistant Director or the Chief of Police, for the purpose of removing or plowing snow, or removing ice, from any way, may remove or cause to be removed any vehicle interfering with such work.  If you violate this ban you are subject to ticketing and towing.  Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Snow Removal Information and What You Can Do to Help

Snow Clearing and Clearing of Hydrants:

Please do not lay, throw, place any snow or ice on any town street, sidewalk or on top of Hydrants as this can create a hazardous condition of public safety concern.

 355-5 Placement of snow or ice; penalty.

1. No person other than an employee in the service of the Town of Westwood or an employee in the service of an independent contractor acting for the Town of Westwood shall pile, push, plow, or blow snow or ice onto or across a public way which is plowed and/or sanded by the Town or deposit snow in such a way as to obstruct the operation of any fire hydrant. Violations of this section shall be subject to a written warning for the first offense; a fine of $50 for the second offense; and $100 for third and each subsequent offense.

Storm Drain Cleaning:

There are over 2200 catch basins (storm drains) in the town, making it almost impossible to clear snow and debris from all.  It would be much appreciated if you could keep the drain in front of your property clean as to not cause street puddling or ice hazards.

Town Layout:

Nothing damaged by the Town that is constructed, built or placed on the Town layout will be repaired or replaced, i.e.: mailboxes, fences, stonewalls, etc.

Please remove all basketball hoops, sports nets, etc. from the roadway

During inclement weather check the Recycle Coach App or Website for trash & recycle collection delays and updates

No longer miss any collections of events (yard waste, recycle, trash, household/curbside bulk, delays, Recycling Day and Hazardous Waste Day)!

Download the free Recycle Coach App for all calendar schedules, reminders, events, do’s & don’ts and what goes where at your fingertips.

Westwood Recreation Department

Westwood Youth and Family Services

For more information, please visit our website:

https://www.townhall.westwood.ma.us/departments/youth-family-services 

Westwood Conservation Department

Oh Snap! A snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) was scooped up on December 29, 2021, while Solitude Lake Management was hydro-raking Perry Crouse Pond (located off of Westview Terrace).  The turtle is estimated to be 3 feet long from its head to the end of its tail. The turtle was not harmed and was safely placed back in the pond after his discovery.

Westwood School Department

Public Notice The temporary special education records for students who graduated, or turned 22 without graduating in the 2014-2015 school year, will be destroyed on March 1, 2022. Any students interested in receiving their special education records must call (781) 326-7500, x1345 to make an appointment to pick them up before this date.  Records can be picked up from the Westwood Public Schools Administration Building at 220 Nahatan Street once a mutually agreed upon time is scheduled and the records are retrieved.

Westwood High School’s Youth Climate Action Chapter is hosting a tree planting event in partnership with Tree Plenish. In order to offset our paper consumption, the Westwood High School's Youth Climate Action Chapter needs to plant 240 trees! To support the chapter and order a tree sapling, visit treeplenish. Volunteers will come to your house to plant the saplings of your choice; a Flowering Dogwood, Eastern RedBud, or Sugar Maple. Last chance to buy a tree sapling is March 30, 2022. Help beautify the community and help the environment by ordering a sapling today!"

Westwood Community Chest

Westwood Community Chest invites the community to its annual fun-filled fundraiser, the Gala of Giving, on its new date and time of Sunday, April 3, 2022 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Chiara Bistro in Westwood.  Tickets are now available. This event has been rescheduled to April 3rd from an earlier announced date of March 6th.

The Gala of Giving includes Roche Bros. inspired wine pairings to match food tastings by Chef LaCount at Chiara Bistro. There will be a silent auction with getaways, entertainment, food, lifestyle and wellness offerings.  It's a night of fun and socializing while taking advantage of a chance to join neighbors helping neighbors.

Funds raised will support grants that WCC awards to Westwood residents who are in need of short-term financial and other assistance. Tickets are $125 per person and can be purchased now on the WCC website.

If you have questions or would like to learn how to submit to the Westwood Wire, please email westwoodwire@townhall.westwood.ma.us  

Town of Westwood

www.townhall.westwood.ma.us

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