I hope everyone is enjoying the great summer weather we’ve been having and getting lots of fresh air. Speaking of which, it’s great to see our new gazebo up and open to the public. From all the use it has been getting lately I think it’s a big hit with residents. Throughout the summer, there will be “Open Mic” nights on the green every Tuesday starting at 6 pm at the gazebo. I’m looking forward to seeing all the creative ways our new landmark be put to good use. A city is a lot more than buildings and roads, it’s the creativity of the people that breathe life into it. And so a huge thanks is in order to all the wonderful volunteers behind Westfield on Weekends and the new upstart group, ArtWorks, which are doing so much to deliver a cultural Renaissance here in Westfield.
It’s also great to see businesses expanding and thriving in Westfield. Last week I popped into an open house for Roots Learning Center which has opened a second location at Hampton Ponds Plaza to serve the overwhelming demand they have received for day care services. The classrooms were very clean and vibrant and should provide a stimulating environment for kids.
On display at the open house were ambitious new plans for a new $7 million sports complex on Roots Road which will be opened this fall by owners Kari and Frank DeMarinis. This facility will attract visitors from around the region into Westfield, opening up further economic opportunities for our community.
Best of luck to the DeMarinis!
Now that the budget is behind us, I will be focusing my attention toward economic development here in Westfield. Currently, Westfield received only 27% of its revenue from commercial and industrial properties which lags well behind our peers. The best way to keep property taxes in check is to attract and keep businesses here in Westfield.
Along with President Brent Bean, I will be establishing an economic development advisory committee to the city council. Ultimately, economic development must be tackled by the entire community. My goal is to get business, community, and government interests to agree on a path forward and work hard to achieve a common vision with regard to economic development. I’m very much looking forward to the challenge of helping create a thriving economy here in Westfield. It is my top priority.
That’s all for now. I’ll keep this update short and sweet so you can get out there and spend more time enjoying all the wonderful events and activities happening in Westfield. Enjoy!
