Frequently Asked Questions

Please note: This FAQ is an evolving document and will be updated as new information becomes available and/or new questions as submitted.   

Please submit your questions to FS1committee@westwoodma.gov.  

  • The current concept from designers KBA would see the FS1 facility in the northwestern corner of the parcel, preserving the existing Deerfield building and minimizing loss of field space (approx. reduction from 3.3 acres today to ≈2.8 with FS1). This is an early design and will be refined and adjusted publicly throughout summer and fall.

  • Yes, and it can do so with a significantly smaller building than the 2025 proposal. The site’s large size and flat layout will also make drive-thru / back-to-back fire apparatus bays possible, dropping the proposed program from 5 bays to only 4. This will help reduce the building size and construction cost while maximizing the operational use of each space for the Fire Department.

  • Deerfield is an existing, developed municipal site with a large, relatively flat area that provides several advantages for construction. 

    The site avoids some of the most significant challenges associated with other locations, including: 

    • Significant clearing of undeveloped land;  

    • Large changes in site elevation;  

    • Complex site and lot size constraints;  

    • Possible land takings or easement acquisitions; 

    • Extensive temporary operational planning and spending during construction. 

    These factors contributed to Deerfield having the lowest estimated range of possible project cost when compared to the existing site and other sites that were studied. 

  • The Deerfield site will allow the new FS1 to comply with Westwood’s zoning to a significantly improved degree compared to a station on the existing site.

    Dimension/Required/Proposed

    • Minimum Lot Area (sqft): 40,000, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Minimum Lot Frontage (ft): 125, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Minimum Lot Width (sqft): 125, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Minimum Non-Wetland Area (sqft): 30,000, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Minimum Front Setback (ft): 40, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Minimum Side Yard Setback (ft): 20, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Minimum Rear Yard Setback (ft): 30, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Maximum Building Coverage (%): 25, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Maximum Impervious Surface (%): 50, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

    • Maximum Average Height (ft): 35’*, Proposed Sites Meets Requirement

  • Yes. Wetland resource areas were identified and mapped by qualified wetland scientists as part of the pre-feasibility assessment. 

    The existing Deerfield site was largely designed and constructed prior to modern stormwater control standards. The new FS1 project must comply with those new and improved standards. 

    The project development represents an approximate 10% increase in impervious area and is 43,000 sqft under the 50% maximum zoning regulations. The site’s drainage improvements include:

    • 5,500 cy imported gravel base for field drainage

    • 3,400 linear feet of 4” per drain in fields

    • 7 new subsurface infiltration/detention systems

    • 5 water quality structures

    Impervious Area/Required/Existing/Proposed

    • Lot Area (sqft): 40,000, 372,122, 372,122

    • Impervious Area (sqft): 186,061 max, 104,257, 142,195

    • Maximum Impervious Surface (%): 50%, 28%, 38%

    • Maximum Average Height (ft): 35’*, NA, 35’

    Additional public review and permitting, including wetland, stormwater and any applicable environmental review, will occur as design progresses. 

  • Preserving recreation opportunities at Deerfield is a priority. 

    The current concept evaluates a reduction in total field area from approximately 3.3 acres today to approximately 2.8 acres while creating opportunities for improved field conditions through: 

    • Better drainage and grading;  

    • Improved playability;  

    • More intentional field design.  

    Based on community feedback, the current concept maintains two softball fields (but upsizes them to regulation size), a multiuse field, and a walking path. However, the actual best use for the field space is not set in stone and the Town through the Select Board is interested in hearing from the community on recreational preferences as we develop this vision. The Town will continue working with the Recreation Department, youth sports organizations, and neighbors to understand community priorities for future field layouts and programming.

    On September 9, the Select Board directed the Recreation Commission to create the FS1 Recreation Fields Advisory Subgroup. The subgroup's purpose is to engage residents, user groups, neighbors, and community stakeholders in a discussion regarding the future use and design of current recreation fields/green space. These plans will continue to be refined through January 2027.

  • While a portion of the existing field area would be occupied by the fire station and associated improvements, other areas of the site would be reconfigured to recover much of that space.

    Based on the current preliminary design:

    • Field area used for the station and parking: approximately 49,201 square feet (1.13 acres).

    • New field area created through reconfiguration: approximately 26,839 square feet (0.62 acres).

    • Net reduction: approximately 0.5 acres.

    This would reduce field space from approximately 3.3 acres today to approximately 2.8 acres.

    The design remains preliminary, and the Town intends to engage recreation users, athletic organizations, and residents in discussions about the most appropriate final field layout and programming for the site.

  • Yes.

    The Select Board has directed that a public process be established to gather feedback from recreation users, athletic organizations, and other stakeholders.

    The purpose of that process is to evaluate how the remaining recreational space can best serve the community, including consideration of:

    • Number of fields.

    • Field types and dimensions.

    • Parking needs.

    • Multi-use opportunities.

    • Accessibility improvements.

    The goal is to ensure the final site design balances public safety needs with recreation and community priorities.

  • The current concept does not anticipate demolishing the former school facility or eliminating the flexible use of programs inside the facility (Westwood Recreation, IT Department). 

    The modular trailers currently used by Westwood Media Center may need to be removed as part of the site plan. Town officials are evaluating options to relocate the organization into available, unused classroom space within the existing building, within the project budget.  

    The Town is committed to coordinating with Westwood Media Center, the Recreation Department, and other community users to maintain important indoor and outdoor community uses at the site. 

  • Multiple access options are being evaluated. The current concept would primarily utilize the existing Police Department access road for dispatching fire apparatus to High Street. The curb cut to High Street would be enhanced and pre-emption signals added for the safety of motorists.  

    Dead-ending Deerfield Avenue is not required for the FS1 project. Early concepts included a potential dead-ending of Deerfield Ave based on preliminary neighborhood feedback. Appreciating neighborhood and community concerns about impact on traffic, that concept is no longer carried in the site plan. 

    The Fire Chief has committed that Fire and EMS would only use Deerfield Ave to respond to calls if there was an emergency on Deerfield Ave or in the immediately adjacent area. 

    Additional traffic and access considerations will be reviewed by project engineers and the Fire Department and shared with the public as the new FS1 advances through design. 

  • The Fire Department has carefully evaluated and tested response routes from the proposed Deerfield location. Apparatus would exit the site using the existing Police Station access road to High Street. Based on the Department's analysis and field testing, the difference in response time compared to the current High Street location is negligible. The overall impact on townwide emergency response is expected to be minimal. The Fire Department is confident the proposed site can continue to provide effective emergency response coverage to residents and businesses throughout Westwood.

  • The size and location of the Deerfield property provide multiple opportunities for parking solutions, including consideration of nearby publicly owned parking resources. The current concept also includes restoration of the existing walking path, currently a crushed gravel path. 

  • The current site design remains preliminary.

    Several publicly owned parking areas exist near the Deerfield site, including:

    • Existing parking areas on the Deerfield property.

    • The former Legion property.

    • The Westwood Public Library.

    The Town is continuing discussions with project stakeholders to determine whether parking enhancements or shared-use arrangements could improve parking availability while supporting recreation and municipal uses.

  • The proposed design seeks to preserve flexibility for future municipal uses while meeting the Fire Department's operational needs.

    The project prioritizes:

    • Outdoor recreation opportunities

    • Recreation Department programming currently housed in the former Deerfield School

    • Future municipal planning options

    • Continued use of surrounding municipal facilities

    The station is proposed in the northwestern portion of the site to minimize impacts on existing uses and future opportunities.

    Long-term planning discussions involving the former Legion building, Town Hall space needs, recreation programming, Council on Aging needs, and other municipal facilities will continue regardless of the Fire Station 1 project.

Deerfield

Feasibility, Design, and Project Development

  • The 2023 feasibility study focused primarily on rebuilding Fire Station 1 at its existing location. 

    While several other sites received limited review, the former Deerfield School property was not evaluated as part of that study. Additional feasibility analysis was necessary to ensure all viable alternatives received a fair and comprehensive review. 

    Now that Deerfield has been selected as the preferred site, additional feasibility work and schematic design are underway. This work includes engineering, environmental review, utility analysis, traffic evaluation, site planning, and detailed cost estimating that were not completed as part of the 2023 study. 

    The purpose of this work is to develop a site-specific design and cost estimate that can be presented to voters this fall. 

  • The pre-feasibility study, which was conducted during the spring and summer of 2026, evaluated whether the potential FS1 sites under consideration warranted further investigation. 

    The assessment concluded that both the Deerfield School property and Town-owned Parcel 14-131 appeared capable of accommodating a modern fire station based on preliminary engineering, zoning, environmental, and access reviews. 

    The purpose of the study was not to select a site, but rather to determine which locations warranted further evaluation. Following additional analysis, public input, and Steering Committee review, the Deerfield School property was ultimately selected as the preferred site. 

  • No. 

    Any plans, renderings, or layouts prepared to date are conceptual and were developed to determine whether a fire station could reasonably fit on the site. 

    The Town is currently developing a schematic design for the Deerfield site. Final design work will occur only after voter approval and will continue through subsequent design phases. 

  • Now that the Deerfield School property has been selected as the preferred site, the project team is focused on completing the feasibility and schematic design work necessary to provide voters with a well-developed proposal. 

    Between August and the October Town Meeting and November election, the Town's consultants are completing: 

    • Site engineering and layout design 

    • Traffic analysis 

    • Utility investigations 

    • Environmental review 

    • Wetland and permitting evaluations 

    • Building design and floor plan development 

    • Construction cost estimating 

    • Financial analysis and tax impact modeling 

    • Public outreach and community engagement 

    This work will allow the Town to create a site-specific design, refine a project budget, and develop an estimated impact on taxes prior to voters making a decision. 

  • Architectural and engineering services are provided by Kaestle Boos Associates (KBA), working in coordination with the Town, the Fire Department, and the Owner's Project Manager (OPM), PMA Consultants. 

  • The OPM, PMA Consultants, represents the Town's interests throughout the project and assists with:  

    • Budget management  

    • Schedule management  

    • Project coordination  

    • Procurement oversight  

    • Quality control  

    • Risk management  

    The OPM serves as an independent advisor to help ensure the project remains aligned with Town goals. 

  • No decision has been made regarding the future use of the existing Fire Station 1 property at 637 High Street. 

    The Town will evaluate future municipal needs, facility requirements, zoning considerations, and potential redevelopment opportunities. 

    Any sale of Town-owned property would require approval by Town Meeting. Any future zoning changes would also require approval through the Town's public process. 

    The future use of the property will be considered as part of the Town's broader long-range facilities and capital planning efforts. 

  • A modern fire station must accommodate:  

    • Apparatus bays sized for current and future vehicles  

    • Living quarters for 24-hour staffing  

    • Decontamination facilities  

    • Administrative offices  

    • Training space  

    • Equipment storage  

    • Support and maintenance functions  

    These needs reflect modern fire service standards and firefighter health and safety requirements. Click here to read the committee’s Documentation of FS1’s Programmatic Needs.

  • Yes.  

    The program has been developed using industry standards, fire service best practices, operational analysis, and input from Fire Department leadership and professional consultants. You can find documentation of the programmatic needs here.

  • Yes.  

    Response data, call volume, and service demand patterns have been key factors in evaluating potential station locations. 

  • Training is a critical component of fire and EMS operations and is required by numerous state and federal regulations. 

    The proposed training room would be used for: 

    • Department-wide fire and rescue training 

    • EMS continuing education 

    • Tabletop emergency management exercises 

    • Incident command training 

    • Critical incident stress debriefings 

    • Meetings involving multiple shifts and personnel 

    • Many firefighter and paramedic certifications that require continuing education and recurring training throughout the year. 

  • Today, the Department often relies on borrowed space, including the Main Library meeting room, for larger training sessions as the existing training space at Fire Station 1 is not sufficient. 

    While these external facilities are helpful, they were not designed for fire department operations and can present scheduling, logistical, and operational challenges. 

    Dedicated training space within the station would improve training efficiency while ensuring personnel and apparatus remain readily available for emergency response. 

  • The primary driver of the increased size is not an expansion of staffing or services. Rather, it is that the existing station is significantly undersized and no longer meets modern fire service standards. 

    The current station was designed decades ago for a smaller department with smaller apparatus and different operational requirements. Today's fire service requires: 

    • Apparatus bays to accommodate larger vehicles 

    • Decontamination facilities 

    • Dedicated training space 

    • Modern firefighter health and safety features 

    • Adequate storage for equipment 

    • Appropriate living quarters for 24-hour staffing 

    • Accessible and code-compliant facilities 

    Even after reducing the building program by approximately 20% from the 2025 proposal, the new facility will still be larger than the existing station because it lacks many of the spaces required for modern fire department operations. 

  • Firefighters perform physically demanding work that can require carrying heavy equipment, climbing stairs, forcing entry into buildings, and rescuing victims under emergency conditions. Maintaining physical fitness is an important component of firefighter health, safety, and readiness.

    Modern fire stations typically include dedicated fitness space so personnel can train during their shifts while remaining available to respond immediately to emergency calls. The proposed fitness area is designed to support firefighter wellness and operational readiness, not recreational use.

  • The Police Station fitness area was designed to support police operations and does not provide sufficient space or capacity for fire department staffing and training needs.

    In addition, firefighters assigned to Fire Station 1 must remain in their response area and be able to quickly access apparatus and equipment when a call is received. Requiring firefighters to travel to another facility for exercise would reduce operational efficiency and could delay emergency response readiness.

  • Cancer is one of the leading occupational health risks facing firefighters. Studies have shown firefighters experience higher rates of cancer diagnoses and cancer-related deaths than the general population.

    Modern fire station design seeks to reduce firefighters' exposure to carcinogens and other contaminants brought back from emergency scenes. The proposed Fire Station 1 incorporates a "clean station" design that separates contaminated equipment and personnel from living and administrative areas.

    • Hot Zone

      • The apparatus bay and gear storage areas are considered the "hot zone." Contaminated gear, equipment, and vehicles are kept here to contain contaminants at their source.

    • Warm Zone

      • The warm zone serves as a transition area where firefighters can shower, wash gear, and decontaminate equipment before entering living spaces.

    • Cold Zone

      • The cold zone includes living quarters, offices, kitchens, meeting rooms, and sleeping areas. These spaces are designed to remain clean and free from contaminants, providing healthier working and living conditions for firefighters.

    This separation of spaces is considered a best practice in modern fire station design and is recommended by national fire service organizations.

Fire Station Need and Operations

Maintenance Bay

  • The maintenance bay provides a cost-effective way to maintain the Fire Department's apparatus fleet and maximize vehicle availability for emergency response. 

    Maintaining apparatus is a core operational requirement of any fire department. The Town must either perform this work in-house or pay private vendors to perform repairs. 

    In-house maintenance generally: 

    • Reduces repair costs 

    • Reduces apparatus downtime 

    • Improves emergency readiness 

    • Protects the Town's investment in expensive emergency vehicles 

    The Fire Department currently performs maintenance in-house and intends to continue doing so. 

  • The proposed maintenance bay within the fire station project is estimated to cost approximately $2.1 million. 

    Constructing a separate stand-alone maintenance facility would be substantially more expensive and is estimated to cost approximately $7 million. 

    In addition, no Town-owned site has been identified that can accommodate a stand-alone apparatus maintenance facility without significant cost, permitting, or operational challenges. 

    The Police Department garage, DPW facilities, and other Town-owned properties do not have the size or structural capacity necessary to service fire apparatus. 

  • Maintaining fire apparatus and emergency vehicles is critical to ensuring reliable emergency response. While major repairs will continue to be performed by specialized vendors, having appropriate on-site maintenance space allows Fire Department staff to perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, equipment installations, and minor repairs more efficiently.

    When vehicles must be sent out of town for service, costs can be significant and apparatus may be unavailable for extended periods. Recent examples include:

    • September 2024 – Engine 5 Repairs: Labor rate of $213 per hour; vehicle out of service for approximately 5 weeks.

    • May 2024 – Engine 2 Repairs: Labor rate of $213 per hour; vehicle out of service for approximately 4 weeks.

    • January 2024 – Ambulance Repairs: Labor rate of $179 per hour; vehicle out of service for approximately 6 weeks.

    Providing functional maintenance space within the station helps reduce reliance on outside vendors for minor work, improves efficiency, and can minimize the amount of time emergency vehicles are unavailable for service.

  • No. 

    Given the shape and geography of the Town, Fire Station 2 is an essential component of Westwood's emergency response system and provides critical coverage to the Islington area and surrounding neighborhoods. 

    Fire Station 2 does not have sufficient capacity to permanently absorb the apparatus, personnel, administrative functions, training functions, and support services currently offered at Fire Station 1. 

    The two stations are designed to operate together as a coordinated emergency response system. 

  • Fire Station 2 is typically staffed with three firefighters: 

    • One Lieutenant 

    • Two Firefighters 

    This staffing level allows the department to respond to calls using all of the apparatus at FS2.  

  • Fire Station 2 contains three apparatus bays and currently houses: 

    • Engine 2 

    • Ladder 2 

    • Squad Truck 

    • Fire Alarm Truck 

    The station's apparatus bay space is fully utilized. 

  • The Fire Department has long identified the ability to regularly staff an ambulance from Fire Station 2 as a future operational goal. Two firefighters/paramedics are needed to staff an ambulance. The Town has recently added firefighter/paramedic positions and continues to evaluate opportunities to strengthen EMS coverage throughout the community. 

    The station currently has sufficient dormitory space to accommodate additional personnel. However, there is not currently enough apparatus bay space to house an ambulance unless other apparatus are relocated. 

  • Fire Station 2 was designed as a substation rather than a headquarters facility. 

    A substation provides emergency response coverage in a specific geographic area but does not contain all the administrative, training, support, and operational functions of a department headquarters. 

    For example, Fire Station 2 does not contain dedicated administrative offices, training facilities, maintenance facilities, or other functions currently located at Fire Station 1. 

  • No.

    Fire Station 2 was designed as a substation rather than a headquarters facility and does not contain a dedicated conference room or training room where large groups of firefighters can gather for meetings, training, or department-wide activities.

    The station does include a training staircase that is used for certain hands-on and operational training exercises. However, it does not provide the classroom, meeting, or multi-purpose training space needed to support larger training programs, department meetings, or other functions typically accommodated in a headquarters fire station.

     

Fire Station 2

Financing and Tax Impact

  • The total project budget is approximately $39.98 million. The Town proposes to apply approximately $5.18 million from existing funding sources and borrow the remaining $34.8 million through a debt exclusion. 

  • Town Meeting will be asked to approve a total project budget of approximately $39.98 million and authorize the proposed funding plan. This includes the use of available Town funds and borrowing authority of up to $34.8 million. The borrowing authorization is contingent upon voter approval of the debt exclusion at the November 3 election. 

  • Applying available funds reduces the amount that must be borrowed, lowers annual debt payments, and decreases the estimated tax impact on residents. The proposed plan balances taxpayer relief with the need to maintain healthy reserves and financial flexibility for future capital projects.  

    Total FS1 Project Scope and Budget: $39,981,157

    • Free Cash: $2,527,585

    • Sale of Real Estate: $1,153,572

    • Meals and Hotel Tax: $1,000,000

    • Recreation Revolving (Field): $500,000

    • Subtotal Non-Excluded Funding: $5,181,157

    • Remaining for Debt Excluded Bond: $34,800,000

    • 2025 Project Proposed Debt Excluded Bond (for reference): $38,100,000

  • Approximately 13% of the project cost would be funded from existing Town resources, with approximately 87% financed through borrowing. 

  • The Town must balance reducing today's tax impact with preserving resources for emergencies, unforeseen expenses, and future capital needs. The Town’s full capital plan for May Annual Town Meeting is still being developed. Retaining some available funds helps avoid deferring necessary work or borrowing for other projects later. The proposed plan uses a portion of available funds while maintaining reserve levels that are consistent with the Town's financial policies and AAA bond rating. 

  • Yes. The Town recommends this funding plan because it reduces borrowing and the estimated tax impact while preserving reserves consistent with the Town’s financial policies. Using these resources leaves less funding available for other projects, so the Town will continue to prioritize capital needs carefully through its annual budget process. While it reduces flexibility somewhat, it represents a reasonable investment in a facility expected to serve the community for decades. 

  • The project includes improvements to recreation fields and green space at the Deerfield site. The proposed recreation funding would be used specifically for field-related improvements, restoration work, and associated drainage infrastructure. 

  • Construction costs have increased significantly since the previous proposal was developed. In addition, many project costs—such as site work, permitting, utility connections, professional services, technology systems, and project oversight—do not decrease proportionally with building size. As a result, a 20% reduction in square footage does not translate into a 20% reduction in total project cost. 

  • No. The current total project budget is approximately $39.98 million, compared to approximately $41.6 million for the previous proposal. The proposed borrowing is also lower—approximately $34.8 million compared to $38.1 million previously. 

  • The estimate was prepared by the Town's municipal financial advisor using assumptions about the borrowing amount, interest rates and repayment schedule. The calculation uses current assessed values and assumes no growth in assessed value or change in the residential tax shift over the life of the bonds. Actual tax impacts may differ as borrowing terms and property assessments change. 

  • Under the current financing plan, the additional Fire Station 1 tax impact is expected to begin in FY29. The timing could change depending on the project schedule and when the Town borrows. 

  • No. Those figures are examples based on current median and average single-family home assessments. The actual impact on an individual property depends on its assessed value and future tax rates. 

  • Yes. Changes in interest rates, assessed values, borrowing schedules, and other economic factors could affect the final tax impact. The current figures are planning estimates, not guarantees. 

  • No. The Fire Station 1 estimate is based solely on the proposed $34.8 million borrowing authorization. The proposed Capital and Tax Impact Stabilization Fund is intended to help address future capital projects and future tax impacts. 

  • Residents have asked how the Town plans to address future facility and infrastructure needs. The fund would provide a tool to set aside resources for future capital projects, reduce reliance on debt exclusions where possible, and help mitigate future tax impacts. This is a separate Town Meeting article. No money from this fund is being used in the proposed Fire Station 1 financing plan.  

  • The project team includes professional owners project managers, architects, estimators, financial advisors, and Town staff. The budget has been independently reviewed and will be reconciled again during design development and again before construction bidding. Any spending beyond the amount approved by Town Meeting would require additional Town Meeting authorization. 

  • Construction projects involve risks such as unforeseen site conditions, market fluctuations, material price changes, and design refinements. The contingency provides flexibility to address these issues without immediately requiring additional funding authorization. 

  • The project budget includes contingency funding and multiple opportunities for cost review before bidding. If costs exceed the total amount authorized by Town Meeting, additional funding authorization would be required before those costs could be incurred. 

  • No. The authorization establishes a maximum borrowing amount. The Town would issue debt as needed based on the project's construction schedule and actual funding requirements. 

  • The borrowing authorization is a ceiling, not a requirement. The Town would borrow only what is needed to complete the project. 

  • A AAA rating is the highest credit rating available. It generally allows the Town to borrow at lower interest rates than communities with weaker credit ratings, reducing overall borrowing costs. 

  • Once the debt is fully repaid, the associated debt exclusion ends. The additional levy authority created for those debt payments does not become a permanent part of the Town's operating levy limit. 

  • Potentially. The Town would work with its financial advisors and bond counsel to determine whether refinancing could save taxpayers money after accounting for the costs involved. Refinancing would depend on market conditions, the terms of the original bonds, and state and federal requirements. 

  • Yes. The Town continually monitors state and federal funding opportunities and works closely with its legislative delegation. Unlike school projects, however, Massachusetts currently does not have a statewide reimbursement program for fire station construction similar to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). If future grant opportunities become available, the Town would pursue them. 

  • Fire Station 1 is one of several major capital needs facing the Town. The financing plan seeks to balance the need for a new fire station with maintaining reserves, protecting the Town's financial stability, and preparing for future investments in schools, public buildings, recreation facilities, and infrastructure. 

Project Schedule and Voting

  • The Select Board is considering a Town Meeting vote on October 26 and debt exclusion vote at the State Election on November 3.   

  • Massachusetts law requires two separate votes for projects financed through a debt exclusion under Proposition 2½. 

    Vote 1 – Town Meeting 

    • Town Meeting is Westwood's legislative body and is responsible for appropriating funds for municipal projects. This vote requires a 2/3 majority at Town Meeting. 

    • At Town Meeting, voters will receive detailed information regarding the project scope, project budget, funding plan, and estimated residential tax impact before voting on the article. 

    • A Town Meeting booklet containing information about the project will be mailed to all registered voters in advance of the meeting. 

    Vote 2 – Debt Exclusion Ballot 

    • A second vote is required at the ballot box to authorize the Town to raise the funds necessary to repay the project debt outside the limits of Proposition 2½. This vote requires a majority. 

    • Voters may participate through early voting, vote-by-mail, absentee voting, or in-person voting on Election Day. 

    • An informational booklet explaining the ballot question will be mailed to all registered voters before the election. 

  • The two-vote process ensures that: 

    • Town Meeting reviews and approves the project and borrowing authorization. 

    • All registered voters can approve or reject the associated tax impact. 

    Both approvals are required. If either vote fails, the project cannot proceed as proposed. 

    Massachusetts law does not currently allow these votes to be combined into a single vote. 

  • Yes. 

    As part of the Town Meeting process, the Finance & Warrant Commission will conduct public hearings and review the proposed project budget, funding sources, and estimated residential tax impact. 

    The reconciled project scope & budget (PS&B) for the Fire Station 1 project is $39,981,158, which was adopted by the Select Board on September 28. You can read the Fire Station 1 Project Financing Recommendation memo to the Select Board here.

  • November 2026 – Summer 2027: Design development, permitting, and procurement of a building construction contract.

    Fall/Winter 2027: Construction begins.

    Mid-to-Late 2029: Construction is completed and Fire Station 1 personnel move into the new station. The schedule will continue to be refined as the project advances.

  • In order to place a Proposition 2 ½ question (i.e. FS1 Debt Exclusion) on the state election ballot (“Midterm” on November 3rd), G.L. c.59, §21C(i) requires that notice be provided to the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office first Wednesday in August preceding the state election, or, in this case, by August 5th. As such, the Board must vote to approve the form of the question and authorize it to appear on the state election ballot, that vote must be certified, and that certified vote and notice must be provided to the Secretary’ office no later than 5:00 p.m. on August 5th. Based upon this timing, the vote to place the question on the ballot must occur prior to the selection of the preferred site for the FS1 project. 

    The language for a Proposition 2 ½ debt exclusion question is highly regulated by law and would be the same regardless of the FS1 site recommended. The ballot language, shown below, is consistent with state law and the Town’s most recent ballot language for FS1: 

    Shall the Town of Westwood be allowed to exempt from the provisions of proposition two and one-half, so called, the amounts required to pay for the bonds issued in order to pay costs of designing, constructing, equipping and furnishing a new fire station, including the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto? 

  • To maximize voter participation in this essential community decision. The decision to advance FS1 is one of the most consequential decisions facing Westwood, and the Select Board wants as many residents as possible to participate in voting on the FS1 debt exclusion. Reliable data shows that voter turnout in midterm elections is much higher than voter turnout in local elections which are deciding only state or local contests (the two FS1 ballots in 2025 drew 18-34% voter turnout; 2018 and 2022 midterms had 73 and 64% turnout, respectively). While history cannot guarantee future outcomes, this data suggests the question of FS1 will receive far broader participation as part of a midterm ballot than a municipal one. 

    For this reason, since there will already be midterm election in November, the Board decided to present the debt exclusion question to residents as part of that election. 

  • It is reasonable to ask how the Town can establish a project budget before every architectural and engineering detail has been completed. The answer is that the schematic design phase is specifically intended to define the project's scope, location, size, operational requirements, and budget framework before investing additional resources in final construction documents.

    At this stage, the project has already undergone extensive planning and review, including site evaluations, emergency response analyses, program validation, environmental assessments, traffic review, geotechnical investigations, schematic building design, multiple site layout revisions, and independent cost estimating. The proposed budget is based on detailed project information rather than a conceptual estimate.

    Approval at the schematic design phase is a common practice for major public building projects in Massachusetts, including projects funded through the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). It allows a community to establish a project scope and budget ceiling before proceeding into the more detailed and costly phases of design and permitting.

    If approved, the project will continue through design development, permitting, and construction document preparation. During those phases, the design team will refine the details of the project while remaining within the budget authorized by Town Meeting. The project budget will also be reviewed and reconciled at multiple milestones to ensure that the design remains aligned with the approved funding.

    The Town is not asking voters to approve an unfinished concept. The Town is asking voters to approve a defined project scope, a preferred site, and a professionally developed budget that will guide the final design and construction of a new Fire Station 1.

Previous Design, Project Comparisons, and Long-Range Planning

  • Potentially, but additional design work is necessary.  

    The Town must evaluate operational requirements, site constraints, and community feedback before determining what revisions may be appropriate.   

    During the July 13th Fire Station 1 Steering Committee meeting, the committee supported a new program for the station that is a 19% overall reduction in the total net area. The former Deerfield Elementary School site was since named as the preferred location of Fire Station 1. With this location, the layout of a fire station on the property can vary greatly, as this site has the ability to accommodate drive-through apparatus bays, which decreases the number of bays necessary compared to an apparatus bay with only one means of access.  

  • The Town carefully evaluated renovation and addition options during the feasibility study process.

    The existing Fire Station 1 was originally constructed in 1948, with a bay addition added in 1975. The building has significant operational, accessibility, and site constraints that make modernization difficult and costly.

    Key challenges include:

    • Limited site size and configuration

    • Inability to provide modern drive-through apparatus bays

    • Difficulty creating proper separation between contaminated and clean spaces

    • Accessibility limitations

    • Aging building systems and infrastructure

    • Operational disruptions during construction

    The feasibility study concluded that constructing a new station on a suitable site would better address the Fire Department's long-term operational needs while providing greater value over the life of the facility.

  • Each fire station is designed to meet the unique needs of the community it serves.  

    Factors affecting station size and layout include:  

    • Staffing levels  

    • Call volume  

    • Apparatus requirements  

    • Site conditions  

    • Administrative functions  

    • Modern building code requirements  

    • Firefighter health and safety standards  

    Direct comparisons between communities often fail to account for these differences. 

  • Previous estimates indicated that the project was generally consistent with comparable public safety facilities constructed in the region.  

    However, direct comparisons should be viewed cautiously because site conditions, project scope, inflation, and local requirements vary significantly from community to community. The Massachusetts School Building Authority has shared this information (slide 10) regarding public construction cost inflation data.

  • The revised project reflects lessons learned from the previous proposal, additional public feedback, and the opportunities provided by the Deerfield site.

    The most significant change is the use of a flatter site that allows for drive-through apparatus bays. This improved layout reduced the number of apparatus bays from five to four while maintaining operational needs.

    Other changes include:

    • Reduction in overall building size

    • Fewer dormitory rooms

    • Fewer bathrooms

    • More efficient internal layouts

    • Simplified site circulation

    • Preservation of significant recreation space

    These modifications helped reduce the overall project size and cost while still meeting the Fire Department's operational requirements.

  • The project is informed not only by the fire station feasibility study and public feedback, but also by broader community planning efforts.

    The proposed Deerfield location advances several priorities identified in Westwood's 2020 Comprehensive Plan, including:

    • Efficient use of existing municipal property.

    • Strategic investment in public infrastructure.

    • Co-location of municipal services.

    • Preservation of community assets and open space.

    • Long-term planning for future municipal needs.

    The project is also being considered alongside the Town's ongoing Long Range Financial Planning and Master Facilities Planning efforts to ensure today's decisions support future community needs.

Temporary Operations and Station Closure

  • The station was closed on February 26, 2026, after structural concerns were identified within the apparatus bay floor.  

    Following an emergency structural evaluation, engineers determined that bays two and three were no longer suitable to house large fire apparatus. All staffed apparatus and personnel were temporarily relocated to Fire Station 2, and operations resumed at Fire Station 1 in June following the installation of a temporary structure outside of the station. 

  • The Westwood Fire Department’s presence, including overnight coverage, was restored to Fire Station 1 on June 1, 2026. After the closure, the Select Board approved plans to install a temporary structure outside of Fire Station 1, which allowed operations to resume at the station.   

  • The closure has increased the urgency of finding a permanent solution, but it did not eliminate the need for careful planning, engineering, public engagement, and financial analysis. 

  • No.  

    The temporary apparatus structure was installed to help maintain emergency response capabilities while the Town evaluates permanent solutions. It does not provide the full operational, administrative, training, health and safety, and support functions required of a modern fire station and is not intended to serve as a long-term replacement. 

    The temporary structure has also introduced additional challenges for the fire department. Water pools and could freeze in colder temperatures. The apparatus doors of the structure are close to the road, and firefighters stop traffic in front of the station to allow the apparatus to exit and return to the station. However, this can present safety concerns as some drivers block the box or drive around the apparatus as they attempt to pull out.  

  • The Town has maintained the building over time, but it is a 78-year-old facility that has been in constant, heavy use 24 hours a day 365 days a year since it was built.

    A fire station experiences very different wear than a typical house or building—the weight of fire apparatus, exposure to water, diesel exhaust, and the demands of a modern, 24/7 operation all take a significant toll.

    Over time, those conditions have brought the building to the end of its useful life.

    Recent structural issues, particularly with the apparatus bay floor, made that reality more immediate.

    At this point, continued repairs do not solve the underlying problem—they only extend a facility that no longer meets today’s standards.

    Even were it maintained to mint condition from the day it opened generations ago – it would be an antique, not an appropriate fire station for today’s needs, building codes, and accessibility standards. 

Information, Communications, and Public Input

  • Project updates, reports, meeting materials, presentations, and announcements are available on the Town's Fire Station 1 project webpage.  

    Residents may also follow the Town through its social media channels and subscribe to the Westwood Wire newsletter. 

  • Residents are encouraged to:  

    • Attend public meetings  

    • Participate in public forums  

    • Review project materials posted online  

    Community input remains an important part of the decision-making process. 

  • Abutters have been and will continue to be notified through public meeting notices, project website updates, and direct outreach when appropriate. If you would like to meet with members of the FS1 Steering Committee, please email FS1committee@westwoodma.gov. 

    Additional public engagement will occur as site evaluations advance. 

  • Following nearly a year of site evaluation, engineering analysis, public input, and FS1 Steering Committee review, the Deerfield School property was selected as the preferred location for a new Fire Station 1. 

    The site was selected because it best balances the Town's operational, financial, and long-term planning goals. Key factors included: 

    • Ability to support emergency response objectives and maintain response times. 

    • Sufficient site size to accommodate a modern fire station and future operational needs. 

    • Ability to provide drive-through apparatus bays and improved vehicle circulation. 

    • Opportunity to maintain uninterrupted fire operations at the existing station during construction. 

    • Fewer site constraints than other locations evaluated. 

    • Strong overall performance in the Committee's evaluation criteria. 

    Selection of a preferred site does not authorize construction. This decision allows the Town to focus design efforts on a single location, refine project costs, complete detailed engineering and environmental review, and prepare a final proposal for consideration by voters. 

  • Town staff identified and evaluated a range of potential sites across the community based on criteria such as location, parcel size, accessibility, response coverage, and development potential.  

    The FS1 Steering Committee then evaluated eight of those sites in greater detail. These sites included the existing Fire Station 1 property, other municipally owned parcels, and privately-owned properties that could potentially accommodate a modern fire station. 

  • The sites were selected based on factors including:  

    • Geographic location relative to emergency calls  

    • Ability to support emergency response times  

    • Parcel size and configuration  

    • Access to major roadways  

    • Zoning considerations  

    • Environmental constraints  

    • Development feasibility 

  • The three sites selected for additional evaluation were:  

    • The Town-owned parcel 14-131 behind 736–738 High Street  

    • The Deerfield School property at 72 Deerfield Avenue  

    • The existing Fire Station 1 site at 637 High Street 

  • The FS1 Steering Committee identified these sites as the most viable options based on:  

    • Ability to support emergency response goals  

    • Adequate site size and configuration  

    • Potential for efficient apparatus access  

    • Fewer development constraints than other locations evaluated  

    • Ability to accommodate a modern fire station program 

    • All are Town-owned parcels

  • Any site requiring new access to High Street would require additional engineering, traffic, legal, and permitting analysis. Potential solutions could include easements, frontage acquisition, or construction of new access roads.  

    These issues WERE evaluated as part of feasibility and schematic design. 

  • The remaining sites were eliminated for one or more of the following reasons:  

    • Insufficient site size  

    • Operational impacts on other Town functions  

    • Inability to support emergency response objectives  

    • Significant development challenges  

    • Environmental constraints  

    • Excessive project costs 

  • Yes. The Town conducted a broader review of potential locations and engaged with property owners where appropriate.  

    The eight sites selected for evaluation were those that best met the initial screening criteria. The Committee was open to new information but focused on the most viable options identified through the review process. 

  • The location of a fire station directly affects emergency response times, which are critical to protecting life and property.  

    National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards emphasize the importance of rapid response. A well-located station helps ensure equitable emergency coverage throughout the community. 

  • Yes.  

    The Committee has discussed co-location and shared facility concepts. However, fire stations have unique operational requirements, including apparatus circulation, emergency access, specialized support spaces, and 24-hour operations.  

    Broader discussions regarding multi-use facilities and long-term capital planning fall within the responsibilities of the Town's Long Range Financial Planning Committee and elected officials. 

  • There is not sufficient space to do so. The existing police department lobby is very small and is more accurately a vestibule before getting into the one public meeting room and police operations.

Site Selection

  • The Town continues to work with environmental consultants and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to understand the full scope of PFAS contamination identified at 637 High Street. 

    Additional testing is underway to determine the extent of contamination and evaluate potential remediation requirements. 

    Once the necessary data has been collected and analyzed, the Town will present the findings to MassDEP. MassDEP will ultimately determine what remediation measures, if any, are required. 

  • No. 

    Regardless of whether Fire Station 1 remains at 637 High Street, the Town remains responsible for investigating and addressing environmental conditions at the property in accordance with MassDEP requirements. 

    The selection of Deerfield as the preferred site changes the future use of the property but does not eliminate the Town's environmental obligations. 

PFAS and the Existing Fire Station Site

  • 637 High Street

    • Lot Size: 1.02 acres

    • Benefits:

      • Direct access to High Street

      • No property purchase required

      • Minimal disruption to pedestrian and vehicle traffic

      • Minimal impact on town fields and recreation/open spaces

      • Access to existing utilities (water, electric, etc.) in place

      • Location is familiar to the Town and residents as a Fire Station

    • Challenges:

      • Requires temporary fire operations during construction

      • Lot size inadequate to accommodate drive-through bays

      • Less conducive to housing maintenance bay, front line apparatus, and training space

      • Less desirable lot topography

      • Site limits potential expansion in the future if needed

    Lot 14-131

    • Lot Size: 5 acres

    • Benefits:

      • Highly accommodating to front line apparatus, training spaces, maintenance bay, and drive-through bays

      • Does not require off-site temporary fire operations

      • Minimal impact on town fields

      • Minimal lot restrictions

    • Challenges:

      • Access road from property to High Street needs to be evaluated

      • Could require Town Meeting approval for purchase of property to access High Street

      • Reduces access to nearby recreation areas and trails

      • Single road access to High Street

Previously Answered Questions