The Town of Westwood announces that the second ballot vote on the proposed Fire Station 1 project, held September 9, did not pass. The final count was Yes – 1,860 and No – 2,348. 

As a result, the project will not move forward as proposed, and the locked-in construction bid—extended until September 15, 2025—will expire. This leaves the Town in the position of needing to act immediately to address safety risks and living conditions for members of the Westwood Fire Department. 

Work has already begun on identifying both short- and long-term solutions. Immediate steps will include addressing the structural stability of the apparatus floor, the unsafe decontamination space, and the inadequate living facilities.  In parallel, the Town will begin developing new proposals to be considered by the community.  

“The current station requires immediate attention to meet safety standards,” said Fire Chief Steve Lund. 

Whatever form a long-term solution ultimately takes, future requests will be required to fund both the design and construction of a new facility, as well as short-term temporary fixes. 

“The Town will forge ahead, planning for near and longer-term solutions,” said Select Board Chair Rob Gotti. “Discussion of those steps will occur at Select Board and other public meetings in the weeks ahead.” 

Special Town Election on September 9, 2025

Unofficial results of the September 9, 2025 Special Town Election