Connect with Westwood
Staying on top of what's going on around Westwood is easier than ever! The town has several options - on a variety of platforms - for all residents to stay on top of public safety information, school, and town business. Residents can visit the town website, and click on "stay connected" on the main page.
ALERT Westwood
Westwood uses ALERT Westwood for all emergency and non-emergency notifications. Once enrolled, residents have the option to receive notifications via phone, text message, email, or a combination of the three. It is our hope that with more advanced software, we will be able to communicate with residents more quickly than ever before.
To enroll in ALERT Westwood, please click here.
Westwood Wire
The Westwood Wire is a monthly e-newsletter that includes news provided by the Town and information from local groups and organizations within the community.
To subscribe to the Westwood Wire, please click here.
Westwood Word
The Westwood Word is the town's new and improved print publication distributed three times per year, April (Spring/Summer), September (Fall), and January (Winter). Westwood Word highlights events, happenings, and news within Westwood through town and community submissions. The Westwood Word is mailed to all residential homes.
To see the latest Westwood Word, 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 to stay up-to-date on all town news or just specific information from a particular town board or committee.
To see subscription options, please click here.
  
For the next several months leading up to Annual Town Meeting, The WIRE will feature an article on the elements of Open Town Meeting. This month "What is a warrant?"
The legislative practice of Open Town Meeting is one of the purest forms of democratic governance. In use for over 300 years, Open Town Meeting gives Massachusetts registered voters a chance to voice their opinions and directly effect change in the community. "Citizen's Guide to Town Meetings" was published by the Office of the Secretary of State which provides a broad overview of town meeting basics, outlining the forms and procedures used in the state.
What’s a warrant?
The foundation stone of every town meeting is the warrant. Every town meeting, whether annual or special is called pursuant to a warrant. The warrant must state the time and place of holding the meeting(s) and the subjects to be acted upon, and no action at a town meeting is valid unless the subject matter is contained in the warrant. This requirement does not mean that the warrant must contain verbatim language of the votes to be taken but the warrant must contain a sufficient description of what is proposed so as to constitute an adequate warning to all the inhabitants of the town. Every action taken at the meeting must be pursuant to some article in the warrant, and must be within the scope of such article.
When is the warrant available?
Every Town Meeting shall be called by a warrant, directed by the Select Board to a constable or other duly appointed person, which shall be served by posting attested copies thereof online and in five public places equally distributed among the five precincts, and at least seven days before the time stated in the warrant for holding an Annual Town Meeting or at least 14 days before the time stated in the warrant for holding a Special Town Meeting.
Who creates and issues the warrant?
The Select Board.
What are articles?
Articles are items on the warrant. Appropriations for each town function or department may be in separate articles. One article on the warrant may propose appropriations for all necessary town expenses.
If you have questions about Town Meeting, you can contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 781-329-3964. More information about Town Meeting is available in the Town’s Charter and General Bylaws.
Next month's WIRE... "Citizens Guide to How Town Meetings Operate"
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The following Boards and Committees are actively seeking Members:
- Housing Partnership Fair Housing Committee
- Westwood Cultural Council
- Westwood Commission on Disability
- Cemetery Commission
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Committee
Please click here for more information. Check back often, as we will continue to update vacancies as needed.
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Did you know...
...that February is Black History Month?
The Town of Westwood values and seeks to recognize the diversity of our community. Please reach out to westwoodwire@townhall.westwood.ma.us with any suggestions for these monthly highlights.
The Westwood Select Board is accepting applications for nominations for the John J. Cronin Public Service Award for 2023. This award is named for the late John J. Cronin, Town Treasurer, who for many years selflessly gave of his time for the betterment of the community, both as an elected official and in numerous volunteer activities within and outside the community. The 2022 public service award was most recently granted to Ned Richardson.
Please consider the following criteria that the nominee should possess and use as a guideline in the nomination: leadership; execeptional service to the community; years of dedication; strong work ethic; integrity; cooperation; diversity of service; volunteerism; impact on the town; and dedication to the Westwood Community.
All nominations should be submitted to the Select Board Office at Westwood Town Hall. The award will be presented at the upcoming 2023 Annual Town Meeting in the spring. Please contact the Select Board Office at selectboard@townhall.westwood.ma.us or 781.326.4172 with any questions or to make a nomination. Nominations are due by March 3, 2023.
WESTWOOD RECREATION 2023 - SUMMER CAMP
JOB OPENINGS
Below are a few part-time job openings currently available in the Town of Westwood. To learn more about these positions and to view other part-time, full-time and seasonal job openings, visit www.townhall.westwood.ma.us and click on “Jobs”.
On-Call Substitute Library Assistant: Provides coverage for the Circulation Department at both the Main Library and Islington Branch Library. Registers and processes library cards; assists with returns and checkouts; shelves items; assists with reserving museum passes, among other duties. Cheerful, energetic candidates with experienced computer skills are encouraged to apply. Hours may vary from week to week and shifts may include mornings, afternoons, evenings, and/or weekends.
Pool Supervisor (Part-Time): Early morning shifts and night/weekend shifts are available for an experienced and conscientious individual to serve as Pool Supervisor. The position oversees the well-being of pool participants and ensures a safe, hazard-free aquatics environment. Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid certification required. Excellent communications skills and ability to react quickly in various situations are essential
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2023 Dog Licensing
- Dog licensing has begun and continues through March 31, 2023
- You may license your dog online, in person, or by mail, provided you include a copy of a current rabies certificate and proof of spaying or neutering.
- Licenses are valid from January 1st, through December 31, 2023.
- You must license your dog on an annual basis.
- Failure to license your dog on or before March 31, 2023, may result in a fine of $25.00, per town bylaws 184-10, C. (1).
- If you own more than four (4) dogs, this is considered a “Personal Kennel” per MGL c. 140 §136A. You must file a special permit application through the Zoning Board of Appeals to obtain a license for a kennel.
- Please contact the Town Clerk’s office if you no longer have a dog(s) so we can update our records.
Licensing Fees are as Follows:
- $15.00 - Dogs not Neutered or Spayed
- $10.00 - Dogs Neutered or Spayed
- $ 1.00 - Postage Fee (if licensing by mail)
- For residents ages 70 or older the licensing Fee is waived for one dog, per household.
- 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 Clerk’s office.
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Boston Post Cane Ceremony 2023
2023 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 their 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 mailed to every household in early January. If your household has not received the 2023 Annual Town Census, please click here to download a blank 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.
2023 Annual Town Election
- The Annual Town Election will be held on Tuesday, April 25, 2023
- The Annual Town Meeting will be held on Monday, May 1, 2023
- Nomination papers are available now in the Town Clerk’s office for registered Westwood voters who wish to run for Town elected positions.
- The last day to obtain nomination papers is Friday, March 3, 2023 by 5:00 PM.
- For residents who are not registered voters, the last day to register to vote to participate in the Annual Town Election and the Annual Town Meeting is Friday, April 14, 2023.
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Early voting in person will take place in the Jaillet Meeting Room, Westwood Police station, 588 High Street on Friday, April 14, 2023 from 1:00PM-5:00PM and Saturday, April 15, 2023 from 9:00AM-5:00PM
- To vote by mail, apply with the Town Clerk on or before 5:00 PM, Tuesday, April 18, 2023.
The following elected offices will appear on the 2023 Annual Town Election Ballot:
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Board of Assessors - 1 Seat, 3 Year Term
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Collector of Taxes- 1 Seat, 3 Year Term (term subject to change, pending possible charter change)
- Housing Authority - 1 Seat, 5 Year Term
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Library Trustee - 2 Seats, 3 Year Term
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Moderator - 1 Seat, 1 Year Term
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Planning Board - 1 Seat, 3 Year Term
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School Committee - 2 Seats, 3 Year Term
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Select Board - 1 Seat, 3 Year Term
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Sewer Commission - 1 Seat, 3 Year Term
Political Sign Placement - For Your Information
Political signs are permitted in all districts and do not require a permit from the Building Commissioner.*
- Political signs may only be installed with the permission of the property owner.
- No sign shall be installed such that the highest point of said sign is more than three (3) feet above ground level.
- No sign shall be installed such that it exceeds twenty (20) square feet.
- There shall be no more than two (2) temporary signs installed on any premise at any one time.
- Signs must be removed within 48 hours after the election.
- Signs shall not be attached to utility poles, fences, walls, trees, or other vegetation, nor shall they be installed upon a sidewalk or public way..
- Signs are not permitted to be placed on any Town-owned property.
*Westwood Zoning Bylaws, Sec. 6.2.11, Temporary Signs
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VOTING BY MAIL
Click here to download an Application
In 2022 a new election law was passed to allow every registered voter in Massachusetts the opportunity to vote by mail, without needing an excuse to do so. To vote by mail, you must submit a new request annually, which applies to all elections being held during that calendar year.
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The Accessible Vote by Mail (AVBM) system allows you to receive, complete, and return your ballot electronically using a secure web portal if you are unable to mark a paper ballot because of a disability.
You may also choose to print your completed AVBM ballot and return it by mail, secure ballot drop box, or in person to the Town Clerk’s office.
The AVBM system is available only to voters who are blind or have vision impairments, mobility/dexterity disabilities, or other disabilities that make it difficult or impossible to effectively access a paper Vote by Mail ballot, because of the inability to independently read, write, hold, or physically manipulate standard print materials.
Westwood residents have a new assignment. Help name the new elementary school!
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Construction is well underway at the new state-of-the-art elementary school that will replace the Hanlon and Deerfield Schools. To bring the two schools together as one, the new school needs a name, and the School Committee is asking for the community’s help with brainstorming ideas.
From Friday, February 10th to Wednesday, March 1st, you can submit your suggested name for the new school using this Google form. A working group established by the School Committee will then review all submitted suggestions and compile a list of finalists, which will be posted on the School Committee’s website on Monday, March 6th. The School Committee, at its March 9th meeting, will review the final suggestions and vote on the final name.
When proposing a new name for the school, we ask that you follow these guidelines:
- The purpose of the new name may be to recognize, honor or memorialize persons, organizations, historical Town sites, historical Town events, or the history of Westwood itself.
- The new name may also recognize an outstanding contribution to education, humanity or the community at the local, state, national or international level.
- Names will not be considered if they tend to undermine or interfere with the educational mission of the Westwood Public Schools or if they compromise the safety of students and/or faculty.
- Names of persons currently employed by the Town of Westwood will not be considered.
Be sure to check the School Committee’s website on March 6th to see the finalists and tune in to the School Committee meeting on March 9th to learn the name of the new school. We look forward to seeing your suggestions!
Change in Enrollment Practice
Enrollment in the Westwood Integrated Preschool takes place via an annual lottery of interested families. Starting with the enrollment process for the 2023-2024 school year, the
District is changing how the lottery is conducted. Specifically, new families who are enrolling in the Preschool for the fall of 2023 will no longer be guaranteed future slots for siblings. (Families who previously enrolled students in the Preschool with the expectation that siblings will be guaranteed a slot will be “grandfathered.”) This change in practice reflects feedback we have received from the community and our desire to create more equitable access for all residents we serve. We understand that decisions about preschool involve many factors and want to make sure that families have this information now to assist with future planning.
Please see WIP Enrollment and Tuition Guide for more information about the Westwood
Integrated Preschool.
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March is National Hemophilia Month
Hemophilia is an inherited disorder, resulting in bleeding that is difficult to stop-particularly after surgery or trauma. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates hemophilia affects one in every 5,000 male births. The two most common types are Hemophilia A (Classic) and Hemophilia B (Christmas). Symptoms include nosebleeds that are hard to stop, bleeding after vaccinations, and bleeding into the joints and muscles. Treatment involves regularly replacing missing clotting factors via infusions. Ultimately, the goal is for every child to remain active and healthy. If you would like additional information on hemophilia or would like to provide local support, please visit The New England Hemophilia Association (NEHA) website at www.nehemophilia.org. NEHA will host their annual walk this year on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at Prowse Farm in Canton. Please consider supporting this worthy cause!
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Permits for Public Food Events
The Board of Health protects the general public by promoting safe food handling for public events. Any event where food is sold or given away to the general public requires a temporary food permit from the Board of Health.
Non-profit organizations often use food sales as a way to raise funds for their organization; several factors are evaluated to determine the food safety of these events. No foods for a public event or fundraiser should be made in a home kitchen (except baked goods such as cookies, brownies, or cakes -potluck is exempt from this requirement) A bake sale is the only public event that does not require a temporary food permit.
Food trucks have become popular for one-day social events and they also are required to obtain a Temporary Mobile Food Truck permit. The Health Department is here to answer any questions and assist you with information to clarify when a food permit is needed, please contact us at health@townhall.westwood.ma.us
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 before 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 Jared Orsini, Health Director at (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 sharps (needles, lancets, syringes) in an appropriate container for disposal into the kiosk; there is no other kiosk location, larger containers can be brought to the Health Department office during business hours. Please do not put loose needles or any other size container into the kiosk. The Health Department provides red, one-liter sharps containers free of charge to residents. Sharps containers are also available at Town Hall and the Senior Center. This program is for residents only, not for business use.
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Medication Collection Program
The Westwood Board of Health and the Westwood Police Department have joined forces to collect and dispose of expired prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. 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.
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The Stretch Energy Code - Energy Efficiency Provisions of the State Building Code
As part of the Green Communities Act of 2008, Massachusetts is required to update its building code every three years to be consistent with the most recent version of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). This ensures that new buildings are designed and constructed with energy efficiency in mind. In 2009, Massachusetts became the first state to adopt an above-code appendix to the "base" building energy code-the "Stretch Code". The Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code (aka Stretch Code), was adopted by the Town of Westwood on May 7, 2012, at Town Meeting. The Stretch Code, which emphasizes energy performance, is designed to result in cost-effective construction that is more energy efficient than that built to the "base" energy code.
Under the Green Communities Act, Westwood, which is designated as a Green Community, is mandated to adopt Stretch Code in lieu of the Base Energy Code. This legislation was signed into law in 2008. The Stretch Code has been updated and added to approximately every three years since its inception. Previous changes have been to those sections that affected new residential construction and commercial buildings. The most recent changes impact remodeling and addition projects.
The Climate Act of 2021 moved the authority for the Stretch Code promulgation to the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and at the same time required the development of a new Municipal Opt-in Specialized energy code (Specialized Code). The statute requires that the Specialized Code is formulated to ensure new construction that is consistent with Massachusetts greenhouse gas limits and sub-limits set every five years from 2025 to 2050. The updated Stretch Code is divided into two chapters, following the format of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and appears as new regulations in 225 CMR 22.00 and 225 CMR 23.00. The effective dates for each new regulation are January 1, 2023, and July 1, 2023, respectively.
- CMR 22.00 covers Residential low-rise construction
R502.1.1 Large Additions: Additions to a dwelling unit exceeding 1,000 sq. ft. or exceeding 100% of the existing conditioned floor area, shall require the dwelling unit to comply with the maximum HERS ratings for alterations, additions, or change of use.
- CMR 23.00 covers Commercial and all other construction (including most multi-family)
R503.1.5 Level 3 Alterations or Change of Use: Alterations that meet the IEBC definition for Level 3 Alteration, exceeding 1,000 sq. ft. or exceeding 100% of the existing conditioned floor area, shall require the dwelling unit to comply with the maximum HERS ratings for alterations, additions or change of use.
For example:
- If you build a 1,000 sq. ft. addition on your home (an addition is considered any increase in conditioned space including finishing a basement, attic, room over a garage, or a physical addition to the structure) the entire house will need to comply with the newest Stretch Code.
- If you remodel 50% of your existing home or double the size of the home, even if the original house is less than 1,000 sq. ft., you will need to engage the services of a Home Energy Rating System Rater (HERS) to evaluate your entire home and provide guidance as to what changes to the existing building will be required to meet the new Stretch Code.
Information for this document was excerpted from information provided by Westwood Building Commissioner, Joseph F. Doyle, Jr. and the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, Energy Efficiency Division, and Green Communities Division.
For more information, please visit the Westwood Building Division’s webpage.
Spring has sprung and like spring, we have 18 “perennial” programs along with monthly special events …so check out our March/April newsletter.
MEALS ON WHEELS
Any Westwood resident 65 or older needing a daily meal, please call HESSCO at 781-784-4944. If you are feeling food insecure, please let us know, we will confidentially help you!
TRANSPORTATION
Rides are offered to the grocery stores on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, medical appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, and errands on Mondays and Fridays. All rides must be scheduled at least 48 business hours in advance.
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WESTWOOD COA IS ON FACEBOOK AND WE WOULD LOVE YOU TO FOLLOW US!!!
Sign up at https://www.facebook.com/WestwoodCOA and LIKE and FOLLOW us! We are still learning the best way to keep you all up to date, so any ideas, just let us know. Join us as we grow and keep in touch with everyone! And no worries, we will continue to send you our bi-monthly newsletter!
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Regular Programs at the Council on Aging
WONDER WORKOUT with Stephanie and Priscilla
Need some inspiration to get back in shape? This high-energy class is exactly what you need. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle. 2023 is the year to get back in shape.
- Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
- 8:00 - 9:00 a.m.
- $3 donation
LOW IMPACT EXERCISE with Alex
This low impact class will strengthen your muscles and help you stay flexible as you age. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle. No time like the present to get strength back into your body!
- Mondays & Wednesdays
- 1 p.m.
- $3 donation
PILATES with Mary
Pilates is done primarily on a mat and will strengthen your core and abs. Please bring a water bottle, and floor mat and wear comfortable clothing.
- Mondays 10:30 a.m.
- Thursdays 11:00 a.m.
- $3 donation
T'AI CHI with Scotty
The purpose of Qi Gong & T'ai Chi is to add practices to people’s everyday lives that promote health, mental well-being, and an increase in self-awareness. It has evolved over the centuries to focus less on self-defense and more on healing.
- Tuesdays 1:00 p.m.
- $3 donation
Westwood’s Veteran's Service Officer (VSO) TJ Tedeschi
Hello my fellow veterans and their families. My name is TJ Tedeschi and I was recently hired as the Veteran Service Officer (VSO) for the five communities of the West Suburban Veterans District (WSVD). Retiring from the Marine Corps with 21-years of active-duty service has given me a unique perspective, and one I am eager to share with the WSVD. With that, I am looking forward to assisting with the gathering of essential paperwork to support legitimate claims, filing such claims and, if necessary, appeal any denied claims.
- Mondays 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- For an appointment call 781-489-7509
WESTWOOD WOMAN’S CLUB with Margaret
All are welcome to this growing and fun group of women (men are also welcome) ...each month they host a different speaker. In March, Barbara Berber will discuss Woman and Children during the American Revolutionary War and the important roles they played. In April, Jodi from Oasis will come and discuss “Busting myths and getting savvy about senior living options.”
- Thursdays 1 p.m. in the Dining Room
- March 23 & April 20
- $3 donation
- All are welcome but you must sign up in advance so we know how many to expect.
Special Programs at the Council on Aging
AARP TAX HELP - FEBRUARY 27 THROUGH APRIL 10
AARP Tax Aides will be on hand to assist with tax preparation for low or moderate-income seniors who will need help preparing 2022 Federal and Mass income tax forms.
APPOINTMENTS FILL UP FAST - please call the Center and schedule your appointment soon. Please bring your 2020 and 2021 taxes, Social Security card, and all other necessary information with you.
An Intake/Interview sheet must be completed prior to your appointment.
Drop by the Center and pick one up or we can mail one to you if time permits.
- Mondays
- 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m., by appointment
- Free
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HESSCO Nutritionist at the COA - Nutritionist Kelsey
Open to discussion on healthy eating, recipes, diabetes, heart disease, and other nutritional subjects. Please call the Center to sign up for an appointment.
- Thursdays
- March 2nd & April 6th
- 1:30-3:30 p.m. by appointment
- Free
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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT - With Chris Coleman, Town Administrator, Stephanie McManus, Finance Director and Molly Kean, Human Resources Director
Come join us as Town Administrator, Chris Coleman, Finance Director Stephanie McManus and Human Resources Director, Molly Fitzpatrick Kean give general updates on what is happening in Town. This is a unique opportunity to understand Town business. Bring questions and concerns. Light refreshments will be available.
- Thursday March 16
- 1pm at the Center
MAKE YOUR OWN SPRING GARDEN - with David from Therapy Gardens
Learn how to grow herbs and flowers inside and outside. Topics include growing and drying herbs — herbs for medicinal and cooking flavors — as well as fun flowers to grow. Discussion will center around how to preserve your herbs and flowers at the end of each season. Each participant will leave with a seasonally available herb/flower plant or seed for their own personal herb garden. So welcome spring with learning new ways to create and enjoy your garden!
- Friday, March 17th
- 10 a.m.
- $25 per person (This includes lecture and cost of supplies)
- You must sign up in advance as space is limited.
COA DAY TRIP TO CHINATOWN - with Roberta
Come experience Boston’s Chinatown and learn its history and explore its many secrets.
- Tuesday, April 18th
- 9:45 a.m. departure, return at approximately 3:00 p.m.
- $30 (includes lunch and tour)
- You must sign up in advance (phone only) and only if you have not joined us in the past.
- Sign up begins March 6th
“CHOICES” A Consumer Guide to Cemetery & Funeral Services – with Thomas Daly, CCE of Cemetery Helpful Solutions
This educational program will present a general overview & understanding of the options and decisions facing you and your family before or at the time of the loss of a loved one. We will discuss MA General Laws that govern funeral & cemetery services, explain the different burial dispositions, the rights of heirs, veterans’ options, regulations, and the importance of planning. The number of decisions may seem endless; however, this presentation will provide an opportunity to ask questions, and learn about the many options you have. Tom has over 50 years of experience in the death care profession.
- Wednesday, March 29th
- 9:30 a.m.
- $2 Donation
- You must sign up in advance
Dinner Club for Seniors
ENJOY GREAT FOOD & MAKE NEW FRIENDS at Neroli Mercato & Deli
Dinner includes choice of Pasta Fagioli or Caesar Salad, Choice of Burrata Ravioli in Neroli Pomodoro Sauce, Herbed Crusted Cod served with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Grilled Asparagus, Chicken Parmigiana with Penne Pasta and Neroli Pomodoro Sauce or Eggplant Parmigiana with Penne Pasta and Neroli Sauce. Choice of dessert is mini cannoli or gelato. Space is limited so YOU MUST SIGN UP IN ADVANCE (with payment) no later than March 31. So, grab your spouse, a friend or just come alone with the intention of meeting new and interesting seniors!
- Wednesday, April 19th
- 5 p.m.
- 274 Washington St., Westwood
- $60 per person includes meal, tax and gratuity
WE ARE BACK ON THE ROAD WITH TOURS OF DISTINCTION
Flyers with all the details available at the Center
YOU MUST SIGN UP IN ADVANCE
5 Day Trip to Quebec - July 17-21 - $1537pp double/$2187 pp single. Includes all bus transportation, guided tours,3 dinners, I box lunch and 1 breakfast, whale watch, 4 nights accommodations, travel insurance… deposit of $150 (non- refundable) at time of reservation.
Long Island Lighthouse Cruise - May 31 - $141pp - Roundtrip motor coach, narrated lighthouse cruise, lunch at Andiamo Restaurant, free time in Mystic Village—$15 non-refundable deposit at sign up.
Tanglewood - August 13 –Yo-Yo Ma Cello Matinee Concert with lunch – Details coming soon!
Cape Cod Cranberry Bog - September 7 - $166pp - Transportation, tour of cranberry bog, lunch at Alberto’s Restaurant, Hy-Line Cruise of Cape Cod Canal - $15 non-refundable deposit at sign up.
Informational Presentation on PFAS
The Dedham-Westwood Water District attended a meeting of the Westwood Select Board on Monday, February 13 and gave a presentation on Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Regulations.
- The District discussed what and where PFAS are found, PFAS testing results, current regulatory requirements, future treatment plans to mitigate PFAS from our water supply, anticipated associated costs with implementing treatment, and funding mechanisms.
- The District's PFAS levels currently comply with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Agency's (MassDEP) regulatory standard (below 20 parts per trillion quarterly).
- It is anticipated by January 2024, that the United States Environmental Protection Agency will be promulgating new PFAS regulatory requirements much lower than MassDEP's current standards. The District will be required to comply with these new standards.
For more information about PFAS or to watch the presentation, please visit: www.DWWD.org/PFAS
Be SMARRT
New Name, Same Incredible Impact!
Westwood Youth & Family Services’ program Bullying Prevention Theater received a new name this year, Be SMARRT, which stands for Students Modeling and Advocating for Respectful Relationships at Thurston. The program’s primary goal remains the same: to educate and support the sixth-grade students of Westwood in navigating the social challenges that arise in middle school in a creative and approachable manner.
The program kicked off another year in October 2022, with ten high school mentors rehearsing weekly for the performances which took place at Westwood High School in January. Mentors captivated their wonderfully attentive sixth-grade audience with four skits, followed by thoughtful classroom discussions and related activities. The sixth-graders were presented with real-life scenarios about bullying, cyberbullying, exclusion and teasing based on differences, among other topics. Mentors acted out various ways in which individuals can advocate for themselves and others, and resolve conflicts.
The success of the program would not have been possible without support from the faculty and staff at both Thurston Middle School and Westwood High School. Most of all, Westwood Youth & Family Services wants to thank the high school mentors for their dedication to rehearsals and the performances, despite their very busy schedules! The 2022-2023 Be SMARRT Mentors were: Wesley Li, Benjamin Methot, Gabriella Hennessey, Olivia Li, Maeve Gavin, Karen Li, Ryan Li, Andie Sullivan, Caroline Tassone, and Nicola Midiri. Thank you all for your hard work and efforts to bring another successful year of the program to life!
For more information, please visit our website:
https://www.townhall.westwood.ma.us/departments/youth-family-services
Westwood Community Choice Electricity (CCE for short) is a program offered by the Town of Westwood and designed to offer residents and businesses more renewable energy and more electricity supply choices. The program will launch in March 2023 with the following options. Eversource’s Basic Service (the current town default option) is shown here for comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) about Westwood Community Choice Electricity
Westwood Community Choice Electricity (CCE for short) is a program offered by the Town of Westwood to residents and businesses with more renewable energy and more electricity supply choices. The program will launch in March 2023 with the following options. Eversource’s Basic Service (the current town default option) is shown here for comparison.
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What are the main benefits of this program?
The main benefit of the Westwood Community Choice Electricity Program (CCE) is stable and competitive electricity rates and options to incorporate more local renewable electricity sources into our supply. More than 175 towns and cities in Massachusetts are already part of a program like this one, and it’s exciting that Westwood is able to have its own Community Electricity Choice program.
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This sounds great. What do I need to do to be a part of this program?
If you have Eversource as your supplier, you will automatically be enrolled at the Westwood Standard level (0.1671 c/kWh) which includes 10% more additional renewable electricity than required by law.
To opt up to Westwood Plus with 100% renewable electricity, which costs only about 1 penny more per kWh (17.85 c/kWh), you can go to westwoodcce.com or call the number for the supplier Direct Energy (866) 968-8065. If you want to opt down to Westwood Basic (16.31 c/kWh), use the same contact.
If Eversource is NOT your current supplier, you can still participate. Call your current supplier to review your options regarding your contract. When you’re ready to join, just go to westwoodcce.com or call the number for the supplier Direct Energy (866) 968-8065.
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What part of my electricity bill will be affected? Will delivery charges increase?
Only the Supply portion of your bill will be affected. Eversource will continue to deliver your electricity, repair all outrages, and send you a single bill. The Delivery charges will not change based on whether or not you are in the program.
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I feel like we’re being pushed into this program. Why is the CCE an opt-out program?
The voters of Westwood approved a warrant article at Town Meeting in 2019, asking the Select Board and town administrator to help the town enter a community electricity program, where we can buy electricity “at bulk” and have options for more renewable electricity content.
Community electricity programs like Westwood CCE are regulated by Massachusetts state law, and the law requires that these programs be opt-out. Each municipality’s aggregation plan is reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Utilities.
The Westwood CCE program is very flexible. You may opt-out at any time. You may also switch between the levels at any time (Standard with 10% renewable, Plus with 100% renewable, and Basic), by calling the number for the supplier Direct Energy (866) 968-8065 or going to westwoodcce.com. The change will take effect on your next meter read.
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I receive a net metering credit for my solar panels. Will joining the program affect this discount?
No, joining this program does not affect any net metering credit you usually receive.
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I receive a discount rate through Massachusetts Eversource. Will joining the program affect this discount?
No, the discount applies to the delivery costs of your electricity only, not the supply costs, so it will not be affected by joining the program.
For more information visit www.westwoodcce.com To view a short video on the CCE visit the Town of Westwood website.
 FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please visit WestwoodCCE.com, or call (833) 937-3222.
To view a short informational video, click the link.https://youtu.be/GNzeTMz8KSY
Free Music and Poetry Events
Wednesday, March 1 - Live! at Hale: Poetry Night featuring Sarah Audsley
Hale Education hosts an open mic and featured poet every month. Audsley’s work has been featured in New England Review, The Cortland Review, Four Ways Review, The Massachusetts Review, Tupelo Quarterly, and Pleiades; her book, “Landlock X,” is due out this year. Poetry nights are ideal for ages 16+ and light refreshments are included. This free event is part of a monthly series made possible by the Margaret Stewart Lindsay Foundation.
6:30–8 PM, Westwood. Learn more and register at hale1918.org/events.
Thursday, March 9 - Live! at Hale: Music in the Barn
Hale Education hosts live music every month this spring. March’s event will feature pop/R & B quartet Whaling Museum, Andrew O’Keeffe from Boston-based Americana band The Old North, and singer-songwriter Sophia Jane. Music in the Barn is ideal for ages 21+. This free event is made possible by the Margaret Stewart Lindsay Foundation.
7-9 PM, Westwood. Learn more and register at hale1918.org/events.
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