Historic Preservation Commission

Mission Statement

Recognizing the cultural significance of Westfield’s rich historic and architectural heritage, the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) was established by municipal ordinance in December 1984. The HPC is charged with preserving historical sites and structures while fostering an appreciation for these landmarks as an essential element of the town’s unique character. 

The Commission considers potential sites for historic designation, reviews proposed work on designated historic properties, advises homeowners in planning and designing their construction projects, and submits recommendations to the Planning Board. Additionally, the Harry Devlin Awards program recognizes homeowners for commendable preservation efforts. By preserving Westfield’s legacy, the Historic Preservation Commission strives to protect Westfield's original neighborhoods and provides a valuable link for generations to come.

Overview

To designate and regulate historic sites and historic districts within the Town consistent with and pursuant to authority granted under the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL), N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq.

Highly Valued Qualities

Westfield is a compact suburban town with many highly valued qualities - a vibrant pedestrian-oriented downtown, a centrally located train station, tree-lined neighborhoods with handsome houses spaced close enough to be neighborly yet far enough part to provide private yards, dynamic cultural institutions, and public parks and playgrounds. These qualities make Westfield a desirable place to live. It is perhaps less widely understood that many of these valuable features are also historic resources - the product of three centuries of creating home and community in Westfield.

The Town of Westfield has recognized that there is a public interest in preserving the town's historic resources. The Westfield Historic Preservation Commission is established by municipal ordinance, and have designated a number of historic sites and districts.

Design Guidelines

Design guidelines were written and adopted to assist the Historic Preservation Commission in its review of proposed work on designated history properties and to guide property owners in planning and designing their construction projects. The guidelines are intended to help protect the community's historic buildings and places, to expedite and ensure consistency in local decision-making, and to benefit property owners by clarifying community expectations.

Designated history sites and districts in Westfield comprise only a small portion of the town's historic buildings and environments. Owners of these residential and commercial properties in Westfield are encouraged to apply these guidelines, as appropriate, when planning repairs, additions, or new construction.

Meetings

• 7:30 pm
• Fourth Monday of every month
• Municipal Building
  425 E Broad Street
  Council Chambers
  Westfield, NJ 07090

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes

Pending Certificate of Appropriateness Applications

Pending Certificate of Appropriateness applications before the Historic Preservation Commission can be found through the following link: Historic Preservation Commission - Pending Applications The Department of Planning and Zoning maintains all pending applications before the Commission and makes digital copies (when available) of pending applications available through the Town website. 

Pending and past Certificate of Appropriateness Applications from the years of 2020 to the present for the Historic Preservation Commission are also available for public inspection in the Department of Planning and Zoning at 959 North Avenue West. 

Members

• Carol Tener, Class A, Historian
  Term Expires: December 31, 2023 
• Greg Blasi, Class A
  Term Expires: December 31, 2023
• Kelly Kessler, Class B
  Term Expires: December 31, 2023
• Maria Boyes, Class B
  Term Expires: December 31, 2024
• Maryellen McVeigh, Alt. #2
  Term Expires: December 31, 2024
• Jennifer Jaruzelski, Class C
  Term Expires: December 31, 2024
• Katie Spikes, Class C
  Term Expires: December 31, 2025
• Mark LoGrippo, Council Liaison
  Term Expires: December 31, 2023
• Jacqueline Brevard, Class C
  Term Expires: December 31, 2025
• Mary Anne Healy-Rodriguez, Class C
  Term Expires: December 31, 2023 (unexpired term)
• Kathryn Reed, Alternate #1
  Term Expires: December 31, 2023
• Ann Freedman, Planning Board Rep., Class C   Term Expires: December 31, 2023

Additional Member Information

• Mayor appointment/Council consent
• 9 members and 2 alternates
• 4-year term - members; 2-year term - alternates

Contact

Email the Historic Preservation Commission with any comments or questions.

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