After eight years of service to the Town of Westfield as your Mayor and members of the Town Council, we have each independently decided not to seek a third term. We have achieved our goal of leaving Westfield better than when we started, and we have been aided in all our efforts by the incomparable ...

There is a Westfield School Budget vote on April 15. I am planning to vote yes to support our great schools and great teachers. This year, there are three questions on the ballot. The first one is for next year and the other two are for major capital improvements for our schools as well as for addit...

I want to add some perspective and awareness about the proposed 2025 municipal budget, which the Township Council has scheduled for a public hearing and adoption on April 15.This year’s $34.6-million operating budget reflects our commitment to responsible fiscal management while continuing to invest...

It was disheartening to read recently that, according to a study by WalletHub, New Jersey continues to have the highest property taxes in the country. We ranked last — 51st, including the District of Columbia — when it comes to heaviest property-tax burdens, with Garden State property owners paying ...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism ProgramWith unlimited styles, pieces and products from around the globe just one click away, consumers can enjoy unparalleled convenience while shopping online. However, this service is met with a significant drawback: high return rates due t...

The Big Tree Man and His Mentee: Part IILet’s celebrate unexpected friendships in this time of uneasiness and global unrest. Unexpected friendships can elevate us away from political divisions and into a sphere of mutual regard and affection.Last time, you met Joe and Joli, the tree devotees who ide...

In March, as we continue working through budget season, Garwood Council will continue to ensure that Garwood remains the best value in Union County for its residents. As costs continue to rise, our Finance Committee is looking for ways to maintain our steady low tax impact and is reviewing efficienc...

In a recent letter, Michelle Capobianco, a Republican candidate defeated in her 2023 run for the Garwood Council, criticized Councilman Sean Foley and Mayor Jen Blumenstock for perceived slights against her and her husband (who was not reappointed to the Planning Board). Her husband previously serve...

A collaboration with the Westfield High School Journalism Program

I was incredulous reading Garwood Councilman’s alleged clinical analysis of Garwood’s mindset that the residents are full of “hostility” and “intimidation.” Being here only for 2 ½ years, he impetuously concludes. With my 25+ years of being involved with Garwood, attending around 99 percent of counc...