The council discussed and confirmed the installation of an all-way stop sign at the intersection of 7th Avenue and Clifton Street, a decision made in response to resident requests. This followed a review by the public safety transportation and parking committee and a traffic warrant analysis that justified the new stop sign. To ensure compliance and increase awareness, message boards and an increased police presence have been established in the area, especially with the new school year approaching.

On the business front, the council announced that Sweetgreen would be opening a location in Downtown Westfield. This new establishment, known for its fresh, plant-forward food, will replace the former Farmhouse store. The announcement has generated excitement among residents and is expected to attract customers from outside the town. Additionally, two ribbon-cutting ceremonies were conducted for new businesses: Apex One, which features advanced racing simulators in the former CVS location on South Avenue, and Rush Bowls, located on South Broad Street, offering health-conscious food options such as acai bowls and smoothies. The mayor highlighted the positive shift in the local business landscape, noting the quick turnover of new establishments and reduced long-term vacancies compared to previous years.

The council also discussed the lease for the One Westfield Place preview center, which is set to conclude with Street Works vacating the space. The center had served to inform the public about One Westfield Place, which is now advancing to the next phase of site plan readiness. There is significant interest from potential tenants.

Several upcoming community events were mentioned, including the rescheduling of National Night Out and a family fun night at Memorial Pool. Additionally, the fifth annual March to Yorktown Day commemoration in Mindowaskin Park will celebrate Westfield’s historical significance during the American Revolutionary War with military drills and educational activities, and special recognition of local military service members.

The council’s agenda was unusually busy for August, with nine ordinances slated for introduction. Among these, a ordinance involved the potential purchase of the former Jiffy Lube property on South Avenue West, a long-standing eyesore. The purchase is dependent on securing a grant from the Economic Development Authority, which would cover 80% of the property’s appraised value. If approved, the town’s contribution would not exceed $250,000. Plans for the property include pedestrian safety enhancements and streetscape improvements aimed at creating a welcoming entrance to Westfield. The council anticipates hearing back about the grant in September.

The finance policy committee presented resolutions, including a contract award for upgrades to the council chambers and conference room, involving the installation of acoustic panels and large monitors to assist with court and municipal functions. Additionally, a resolution was proposed to fix the hinges and replace doors on the Memorial Park bathrooms. Significant grants were approved to offset the costs of municipal programs, including a $168,400 grant from the NJACCH infrastructure program.

An emergency appropriation was discussed to address the replacement of a rooftop HVAC unit at Town Hall, necessitating immediate legislative action for funding authorization. Further resolutions included a bond ordinance for the purchase and refurbishment of fire engine pumpers and another for replacing pool filtration systems, both of which had been anticipated in the upcoming capital budget.

The code review and town property committee introduced several ordinances, including one for a temporary access easement agreement related to Verizon cell antennas on North Avenue. The discussion also included amendments to the town’s filming ordinance to align with the state’s film-ready program.

Another notable ordinance addressed the distribution of unsolicited printed materials, specifically targeting unsolicited advertising such as circulars and newspapers typically left at residents’ driveways. This ordinance allows residents to opt out of these deliveries and imposes fines on entities that continue to deliver materials without consent. This ordinance aligns with a new state law adopted in January 2024, which also allows licensed craft alcoholic beverage manufacturers to collaborate with food vendors, including food trucks. The council recommended amending current regulations to allow food trucks to operate in the central business district of Westfield, albeit limited to once per month and only in conjunction with craft breweries, starting with Lion’s Roar Brewery.

The meeting concluded with various administrative matters, including approving the minutes from previous meetings and addressing bills and claims. The council approved claims amounting to $1,485 and moved forward with a package of 21 resolutions related to financial matters, including authorizing the Chief Financial Officer to draw warrants for dog licenses, recreation department refunds, Board of Adjustment escrow monies, Police Department fees, and street opening cash bonds. The council also acknowledged resignations from the Downtown Westfield Corporation Board and appointed new members to fill unexpired terms.