City of Westfield Newsletter Spring 2025 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

A PLACE FOR PEOPLE WHO LOVE SPORTS.

The Grand Park District Master Plan was unveiled at the January 13 City Council meeting. It’s a new vision to expand and enhance the Grand Park Sports Campus. The plan introduces three key destinations and new amenities designed to connect Grand Park with the surrounding community, creating a dynamic space for sports, recreation, business, and entertainment.

Mayor Willis shared that Grand Park, which now attracts over 5 million visits annually, will grow into a place where people want to stay longer and explore. “We’re focused on creating an area where residents and visitors feel a deeper connection to the park,” he said.

Key Features of the Plan:

• The Grand Park Events Center (GPEC) will remain the hub for events

• A new 10,000-seat Championship Stadium will be built at 186th Street & Grand Park Boulevard

• A flexible south end anchor will feature either a foursheet ice facility or a sports headquarters

Additionally, Champions Way, a linear park, will connect GPEC to a newly redesigned Grand Park Lake, featuring sports fields, splash pads, and a high-profile attraction, along with water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The development will also include new parking garages, canal walks, and improved accessibility.

The first phase of the plan includes a parking garage, hotel, mixed-use development, and expansion of Indy Eleven’s headquarters.

The Master Plan was funded by Hamilton County Tourism and will shape Grand Park into a lively, connected destination for both locals and visitors.

MAYOR’S COLUMN

Westfield Residents,

We kicked off the new year with a heavy snowfall that kept our street crews busy for nearly 36 hours - they salted, shoveled, and plowed to guarantee our streets and walkways were safe and clear. As a Westfield resident, I’m grateful for their dedication to ensuring our city continues to function safely. I’d also like to thank our first responders for braving the cold to provide timely assistance to neighbors in need.

It has been quite a few years since we have seen this amount of snow in a single storm and it taught us important lessons that we are integrating in new procedures moving forward, which hopefully will not be necessary any time soon!

The new year got off to a fast start and it hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down! Since January, we’ve unveiled the exciting Grand Park Master Plan, continued progress on the Advancing Westfield 2045 comprehensive plan, and will soon commence the special US Census to assess the explosive growth of our city over the past few years.

This rapid growth rate, however, requires updated infrastructure to support it. Spring is known as construction season in Indiana, and Westfield will certainly have its fair share of roadwork in the coming months. I appreciate your patience as we not only meet our community’s current needs but also anticipate what needs will be coming down the line. For the most up-to-date road closure information, be sure to subscribe to our mailing list and follow the city’s social media pages.

Thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of being your Mayor. Let us work hand in hand to build a Westfield that we can all be proud of.

In service,

Mayor Scott Willis

HELLO, NEW RESIDENTS!

Welcome to Westfield! We’re thrilled that you’ve chosen to join the growing number of people who call Westfield home. Although Westfield is one of the fastest growing cities in the state and nation, we want to ensure each new resident feels welcomed and appreciated in their new hometown.

That’s why we’ve created a new resident packet with everything you’ll need to get settled in your new surroundings, including important contact information, a trails map, utility set-up instructions, and more.

To receive a new resident packet and a welcome gift, please visit: westfieldin.gov/newresidents.

WESTFIELD’S CITY COUNCIL | HERE FOR YOU!

LETTER FROM PATRICK TAMM | COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Dear Residents,

It’s hard to believe that Spring is just around the corner and that your city councilors now have a full year - and a little more - under their belts. The first quarter for the Westfield City Council has been busy, and the pace doesn’t appear to be slowing down. In January and February, we hosted four golf cart listening tours, encouraging community members to share their thoughts on expanding the use of golf carts within the city.

Additionally, we’ve welcomed new police officers and firefighters to our team, reinforcing our commitment to safety, and we had the honor of recognizing two residents with Lifesaving Citizen Awards for their bravery and quick thinking. This collaborative effort is just one example of how we continue to work alongside residents to address the needs of the community.

As we look ahead to the warmer months, we’re excited to continue our efforts to create a thriving community. Be sure to mark your calendars and bring the whole family out to one of Westfield Welcome’s many fantastic events at Grand Junction Plaza. From outdoor concerts to the weekly farmers market, there’s always something fun happening in our vibrant city. There’s so much to look forward to as we continue working together to make Westfield a great place to live, work, and play.

Sincerely,

Patrick Tamm | Council President

Jon Dartt

District 1

jdartt@westfield.in.gov

Victor McCarty

District 2 vmccarty@westfield.in.gov

Joe Duepner

District 3 jduepner@westfield.in.gov

Patrick Tamm

District 4 ptamm@westfield.in.gov

Noah Herron

District 5 nherron@westfield.in.gov

Chad Huff

At-Large chuff@westfield.in.gov

Kurt Wanninger

At-Large kwanninger@westfield.in.gov

MAY 10 & OCTOBER 11, 2025

8 A.M. - 12 P.M. | 2728 E. 171ST STREET

This event gives Westfield residents the opportunity to dispose of items not included in regular trash or recycling services. Participation is free, unless otherwise noted, but please bring your City of Westfield stormwater bill as proof of residency.

BULK TRASH DAY FAQs:

When and where does Bulk Trash Day happen?

Bulk Trash Day will take place on May 10 and October 11 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Westfield City Services parking lot located at 2728 E. 171st Street.

Is there a fee?

There are nominal fees on specific items. Scan the QR code below to view more details.

Do you provide plastic wrap for the mattresses and box springs?

No. You must have them plastic-wrapped before you arrive.

Can I bring any hazardous materials like paint, oil, or propane?

No. You can dispose of those at the Hamilton County Household Hazardous Waste Center in Noblesville.

If I rent my home and do not have a stormwater bill, do you accept any other form of residency?

Yes. We will accept a driver’s license with a Westfield address.

Can I still bring items if I’m outside of city limits?

Anyone who resides in the City of Westfield or Westfield Washington Township is eligible to participate in Bulk Trash Day.

Visit westfieldin.gov/bulktrash or scan the QR code to learn more.

ADVANCING WESTFIELD 2045 UPDATE

The City of Westfield continues to work with Rundell Ernstberger Associates, Inc. (REA) on the Advancing Westfield 2045 Comprehensive Plan. Phases 1 and 2 have been completed and receiving valuable community input is the next step. We hope you can join us!

PHASE 3 (VISION & VALUES IDENTIFICATION):

3 Months (January 2025 – March 2025)

COMMUNITY INPUT OPPORTUNITY

Westfield Winter Market | March 22

COMMUNITY INPUT WEEK (2 Sessions)

Westfield Washington Public Library

April 14 | 5 - 7 p.m.

April 17 | 6 - 8 p.m.

PHASE 4 (DRAFT PLAN DEVELOPMENT):

7 Months (March 2025 – September 2025)

PHASE 5 (FINAL PLAN DEVELOPMENT):

1 Month (October 2025)

PHASE 6 (PREPARATION FOR ADOPTION):

3 Months (November 2025 – January 2026)

PHASE 7 (FINAL DELIVERABLES):

1 Month (February 2026)

*dates are subject to change

For more information, visit: westfieldin.gov/dora or scan the QR code.

For more information, visit westfieldin.gov/2045 or scan the QR code.

The Downtown Westfield DORA will kick off this Spring! Here are some quick tips to sip smart:

• The DORA is active Monday through Thursday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

• DORA beverages may only be purchased at participating businesses.

• Only DORA-designated cups are permitted for DORA beverages.

• Keep an eye out for “Welcome Here” or “Not Permitted” signs on businesses.

• Safety and nuisance laws are strictly enforced.

WESTFIELD CELEBRATES FATHER-SON DUO AS LIFESAVING HEROES

Mayor Scott Willis, the Westfield City Council, and the Westfield Fire Department honored David Fisher and his son, Felix, with the Lifesaving Citizen Award at the January 27 City Council meeting for their courageous rescue on December 14, 2024. The Fishers saved a young man and a dog who had fallen into icy waters.

Felix heard a man yelling for help and alerted his father. The two quickly pulled the man and the dog to safety using jump ropes, then took them into their home to warm up while waiting for first responders.

“I’ve always known that Westfield is filled with brave, kind-hearted people, but what David and Felix did is absolutely remarkable,” said Mayor Willis. “Their courageous actions are the definition of what it looks like to care for your neighbor. We are proud to honor them with this well-deserved award.”

“Stories like these don’t always have a positive outcome,” said Westfield Fire Chief Rob Gaylor. “My department and I are extremely grateful to David and Felix for their quick-thinking and selfless actions.”

PRESS PLAY ON THE MAYOR’S YEAR IN REVIEW

Relive the highlights of 2024 by watching the State of the City address! Mayor Willis recapped the year’s key accomplishments for Westfield Chamber luncheon attendees in November and again at Westfield High School on January 15.

Visit westfieldin.gov/yearinreview or scan the QR code to watch the full update and see what has been achieved in 2024.

The Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities (WMCD) mission is to make a positive impact in the lives of people with disabilities in Westfield by promoting lifecycle planning, inclusion, and access. The WMCD will address current challenges people with disabilities in Westfield are facing and will uncover quality solutions to break down barriers.

The WMCD has launched the Workforce Development Partner program to recognize businesses that hire and support individuals with disabilities. Participating businesses must employ individuals with disabilities, complete inclusive practices training, and register with the WMCD. Benefits include a window decal, website recognition, and event discounts. The program was introduced on January 18 and now includes West Fork Whiskey Co., Carter’s Play Place, Culver’s, and Goodwill of Central Indiana as the first participants.

The WMCD, in partnership with the City of Westfield and sponsored by Colt Moving, has launched the Community Art Exhibition program. This initiative offers individuals with disabilities in Westfield and Westfield Washington Township an opportunity to showcase their art. The submitted pieces were first displayed publicly at the Westfield Sensory Day event on March 1 at the Westfield Washington Public Library. Art is accepted any time of year and is reviewed monthly before being displayed year-round at local businesses and organizations.

WESTFIELD POLICE & THEIR NEW LOOK

Mayor Willis recently unveiled renderings for the new Westfield Police Department Headquarters, set to be located near Grand Park and John Dippel Boulevards. The city plans to break ground in mid-2025, with the facility expected to open in 2027. The new headquarters is designed to support the department’s growth and future expansion.

WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK!

The Westfield Police Department is developing its 5-year strategic plan and is seeking resident feedback and input. Please scan the QR code or visit westfieldin.gov/pdquestions to participate.

“WORKING K9 TO 5...”

Sgt. Dewey Abney began training with the new K9, “RB”, at the end of January. RB is a dual-purpose K9 assigned to the patrol division. AES Restaurant Foundation made a significant donation to the Westfield Police Department, and RB’s name is a nod to them!

MORE WPD UPDATES

• 2025 New Hires: Ethan Brewer, Cody Klettheimer, Ezekiel McCarthy, Davin Nichols, Mark Shaffer, Marlon De Souza, and Daniel Stevens

• Ryan Ward was hired in 2024 and is attending the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy

• Detective LeeAnn Carter was recognized with the First Responders Award of Distinction at the recent 41st Annual Westfield Chamber Lantern Awards

SPRING INTO SAFETY WITH THE WESTFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT

CHANGING CLOCKS & BATTERIES

As you spring forward, don’t forget to check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. If they’re over 10 years old, it’s time to replace them. Older models can be less reliable in an emergency.

SMOKE ALARM TIPS

Twist the alarm off the bracket and, if your home was built after the 1980s, unplug any attached wires. Check the manufacturer’s date—if it’s over 10 years old or yellowed, it’s time to replace it. Use the product code to order a new one online or visit a hardware store for a match.

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR TIPS

Check the date on your carbon monoxide detector—replace it if it’s over 10 years old (some recommend replacement after 7 years). Change the battery yearly or when it starts beeping, and be sure to test it monthly by pressing the test button. Install detectors near sleeping areas and on every level of your home to ensure quick detection.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Hardwired alarms may still have a battery backup in case of power loss.

• If no battery compartment is visible, the unit likely has a sealed 10-year battery and it should be replaced every decade.

NEED HELP? CONTACT US!

Mark Fuller | Deputy Fire Marshal 317-316-2557

NO PAIN FOR YOUR BRAIN

March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month, and our Westfield firefighters want to remind the community that preventing head injuries is simple—just wear your helmet.

Whether you ride bicycles, motorcycles, or skateboards, wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of brain injury by up to 88%.

This means you are less likely to have long-term injuries when accidents happen.

Too often, we see kids with their helmets on, riding bikes with their parents, who do not have a helmet on. Firefighters encourage parents and grandparents to lead by example by wearing a helmet.

You only have one brain. Use it, don’t lose it!

WFD’S NEW RECRUITS

Recruits: Tyler Barnett, Sam Buck, Ross Cripe, Cole Jackson, Travis McIntyre, Kayla Moebs, Cody Rudy, and Jared Simoneaux

Lateral Firefighters: Adrian Carrillo and Chase Freeman

Paramedics: Tori Glass, Dayna Kalaba, Elizabeth Moore, and Brent Olsen

WESTFIELD’S VISION TAKES SHAPE: SIMON MOON UPDATE

Phase 1 of the Simon Moon Park expansion project is now complete. Park improvements in this phase of the project include:

• Trail work including two new boardwalks and a bridge

• Landscaping

• Expanded parking lot

• Sledding hill

• Pond construction

Phase 2 of the expansion project is due to begin in late spring of 2025 and will include an outdoor learning classroom, a sledding pavilion, and a complete replacement of the playground. The new playground will feature a swing set, seesaws, a log net, slides, an inclusive carousel, and a climbing wall. It is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2025.

TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT: ESSENTIAL TO OUR GROWTH

The Westfield Washington Schools Transportation Department ensures student safety, operating 115 vehicles and covering over 1 million miles annually. A new Transportation Center opening in fall 2025 will support district growth with parking for 250 buses, expanded training space, mechanic bays, and a driver break room.

JOIN OUR TEAM!

“We provide free CDL training, competitive pay, and benefits, along with the chance to make a real impact on the community,” says Larry Johnson, Director of Transportation. As the largest employer in Westfield, we’re looking for drivers, bus aides, and mechanics to join our team.

READY TO APPLY?

Visit wws.k12.in.us/departments/human-resources/employment-opportunities or scan the QR code. Help drive the future of Westfield—one mile at a time!

The Westfield Education Foundation (WEF) is a vital force in supporting students and teachers within the Westfield Washington Schools (WWS) district. Through scholarships, teacher grants, and community initiatives, WEF enhances educational opportunities and fosters student success.

MAKING AN IMPACT

WEF awards scholarships to graduating seniors, with over $114,000 distributed in 2024. This year, seven new scholarships were added in areas like architecture, interior design, and construction studies. WEF also awarded over $43,000 in grants to teachers for innovative projects and professional development, while programs like the Shamrock Supply Hub address student needs for supplies and clothing.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Events like Rock The Block, Rocks Giving, Holiday Giving, The Supply Hub, Bourbon & Bling, and the Top Golf Fundraiser bring the community together to support education while enjoying fun activities.

GET INVOLVED

WEF’s impact relies on donors, sponsors, and volunteers. To donate, start a scholarship, or learn about upcoming events, visit wwswef.org.

Together, we can build a brighter future for Westfield—one student and one teacher at a time!

THE SHAMROCK HUB: SUPPORTING WWS STAFF & STUDENTS

The Shamrock Supply Hub is a new 2024-2025 school year initiative designed to provide Westfield Washington Schools (WWS) staff with easy access to essential school supplies. Fully funded by community donations, the Hub allows staff to request supplies at no cost, ensuring they have the resources they need to support student learning.

Since opening in September, the Hub has delivered hundreds of items, significantly impacting the district. A big Shamrock Shout Out to Pulte Homes, Office Depot, Walmart, and BJ’s Wholesale Club for their generous contributions, which have helped make this valuable resource possible.

Looking ahead, we invite the community to join us this summer for our annual “Stuff the Bus” event. Together, we can ensure that every student has the essential supplies they need to succeed in the coming school year!

Questions?

Ashley Knott | knotta@wws.k12.in.us

NEW PROGRAM CONNECTS & EMPOWERS YOUNG ADULTS

Sandy O’Neill and Taylor Woolsey proudly represent Westfield Washington Schools in the Shamrock Connections program, a vital transition program that supports exceptional learners (ages 18-22) in developing life skills like independent living, social interaction, and employability.

Guided by job coaches Courtney Powell, Anna Bolton, and Lee Starr, interns receive personalized support and vocational experience. Shamrock Connections partners with 19 local businesses, offering real-world opportunities for interns to apply and refine their skills in various work environments.

“It’s been inspiring to witness not only the personal growth of our interns but also the positive impact they’ve had on the businesses they work with.”

Sandy O’Neill | Shamrock Connections

“Shamrock Connections allows our interns to gain confidence, build professional relationships, and contribute meaningfully to the community. We are proud to see them thrive in real-world settings.”

Taylor Woolsey | Shamrock Connections

If you are a local business interested in joining this incredible initiative and making a difference in the lives of these young adults, contact Sandy O’Neill at oneills@wws.k12.in.us or Taylor Woolsey at woolseyt@wws.k12.in.us.

Together, we can help our interns build a brighter future while strengthening our community.

TIME WELL SPENT: EMPLOYEE MILESTONES WHY WESTFIELD?

30 YEARS

James J. Lilly, Jr. Police

25 YEARS

Steven Miller Fire

20 YEARS

Joseph Hopkins Police

Kevin M. Todd Community Development

Patricia Leuteritz Public Works

Robert J. Gaylor Fire

Jason M. Gibbons Fire

Song T. Kang Police

15 YEARS

Micha P. Farrar Clerk Treasurer’s Office

Susie “Nicole” Hartman Fire

Samuel N. Rivard Information Technology

Kyle E. Howe Fire

Jason C. Maners Fire

Scott A. Wolfe Fire

Eric R. Grimes Police

10 YEARS

Nancy R. Woerner Community Development

Brandon M. Oliver Community Development

Dewey A. Abney Police

Brandon T. Gehlhausen Police

John B. Rankin Public Works

Brandon S. Taylor Fire

Shaun P. Barnett Fire

The City of Westfield’s social media pages are a great place to share why you chose to call Westfield home. Whether it’s your favorite schools, close-knit neighborhoods, or a strong sense of community, these “Why Westfield” posts offer a glimpse into the heart of our city. Along with important city news and community spotlights, the pages highlight achievements and events within Westfield. You can get involved by submitting your own photo and a quote about why you chose to live in Westfield by visiting westfieldin.gov/whywestfield. Your story may inspire others to connect with our community!

NEIGHBORHOOD VIBRANCY GRANT

The City of Westfield is launching the Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant (NVG) program to fund innovative projects that enhance our community’s vibrancy and quality of life. The program offers a 2-to-1 matching grant, providing up to $10,000 per project. Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and neighborhood groups within city limits are encouraged to apply.

The NVG supports projects like environmental enhancements, recreational improvements, and neighborhood connectivity. Ideas include transforming lawns into native plant areas, installing rain gardens, improving trails and parks within neighborhoods, and adding solar lighting.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To learn more and apply, visit westfieldin.gov/neighborhoodgrant.

22nd Annual Chamber Golf Outing

Get ready to tee off on May 12 at The Bridgewater Club for the Westfield Chamber of Commerce’s 22nd Annual Golf Outing! Presented by Abbott, Bondry Consulting, the City of Westfield, Community First Bank of Indiana, and Community Health Network, we are looking forward to an outstanding day full of networking and friendly competition.

This event is open to all community members and organizations in Hamilton County, with a special discounted rate for Westfield Chamber Partners. The golf outing is much more than just a round on the course but an opportunity to network and discover what makes Westfield thrive in Central Indiana.

Not a golfer? There are plenty of sponsorship opportunities available for you to gain exposure at our most anticipated event of the year! Player spots will go quickly, so please check out our website for all registration options!

Young Professionals Leadership Summit

Join us on April 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., for a unique professional and personal development conference for young professionals (40 & under) living or working in Westfield. Enjoy leadership training, lunch, snacks, and a post-conference networking happy hour—all included in the registration fee. Register now on the Chamber website and share this event with your colleagues who are young in their professional journey and eager to learn!

About the Chamber

The Westfield Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Westfield Association (DWA) proudly serve the businesses and community of Westfield, helping them to engage and connect with one another. If you are new to the city or interested in hosting a ribbon-cutting or groundbreaking ceremony for your business, please reach out and visit our website to learn how to get involved!