The Westfield Fire Department Station 84, strategically situated at 191st Street and Chad Hittle Drive, is set to become a pivotal asset to the community when it opens its doors in October 2025. This state-of-the-art facility will span 20,000 square feet across two stories, housing three fully equipped apparatus bays along with modern living areas and sleeping quarters for the staff.
In addition to its core functions, the station will feature a public museum, offering visitors an engaging glimpse into firefighting history and technology. The new firehouse is also expected to enhance emergency response times, reducing them by over two minutes while improving the station’s overall service efficiency.
FIFA has announced the initial list of Team Base Camp sites for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the City of Westfield and Grand Park Sports Campus selected as potential team locations. Teams will select a hub that will provide lodging, training facilities, and resources throughout the group stage. Westfield is one of nine cities chosen in addition to the Host Cities. Teams will choose their final location after the Final Draw for the event in late 2025.
WESTFIELD KICKS IT UP A NOTCH WITH FIFA CAMP CONSIDERATION
MAYOR’S COLUMN
Westfield Residents,
Summer is winding down, and the kids are returning to school. It’s hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner.
For the City of Westfield, that means it is budget season. My staff has been diligently planning for 2025, and we will bring a budget to the council this month. We are taking a different approach to budgeting than in years past. I have tasked each of my directors with implementing zero-based budgeting rather than just adjusting based on the previous year’s spend. Zero-based budgeting is a strategic approach requiring a fresh evaluation of all expenses incurred during the budget cycle. This is to align the strategic objectives outlined in my Advancing Westfield vision to yield the highest value for our residents and community.
The goal of the 2025 budget is to ensure that every tax dollar is used effectively and has a clear purpose. We plan to achieve this while keeping the city tax rate flat.
My priorities for 2025 include building and staffing the new Westfield Fire Station 84 and providing mental health assistance for all public safety personnel. These initiatives are not just about infrastructure and services, but about ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. These men and women put their lives at risk every day for each resident and visitor who comes to our community, and it’s imperative that we support them. I want to continue to strengthen our communication channels by continuing initiatives such as this printed newsletter that hits your mailbox.
We must also look at quality growth and livability in Westfield; that means ensuring we have funding in place for our Capital Improvement Plan, which includes upgrading our infrastructure, such as widening 191st Street, a tunnel on the Monon at 161st Street, and our State Road 32 enhancement project. These projects are crucial as we look toward attracting commercial businesses to the city. As I talked about on the campaign trail, we must work to balance our residential versus commercial tax base.
Please save the date for my next town hall on September 12 at 7 P.M. at Westfield Washington Public Library; this event is open to all residents.
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
WESTFIELD’S SPECIAL CENSUS
In the Summer of 2025, the City of Westfield will conduct a special census to gather updated information about its population and demographics. This special census aims to provide a more accurate count of residents, which is crucial for effective planning and resource allocation.
By participating in this census, residents help ensure that the city can address current needs, plan for future growth, and make informed decisions on public services, infrastructure, and community programs. The process will involve door-to-door surveys and possibly online forms, making it easy for everyone to contribute.
More information will be released as it becomes available. Your participation is vital for shaping the future of Westfield!
MEET YOUR COUNCIL MEMBERS
LETTER FROM PATRICK TAMM, COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Dear Residents,
It’s been a busy first half of the year, and we’re not slowing down. We’ve been strengthening our partnerships with city staff and the administration. In July, city councilors fired up the grill for a summer cookout at Quaker Park, giving everyone a chance to unwind, connect, and celebrate the year’s progress. We’re making great strides in economic development and land acquisition. We’ve also approved a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) for downtown. If the state approves, it’ll boost local businesses and help regulate alcohol consumption in Grand Junction Plaza, where it’s already allowed. Westfield is likely to grace the international stage in 2026 with the announcement of being named a home base site for the FIFA World Cup. You can read more about that on the cover of this newsletter.
With our kids back in school, let’s all remember to follow speed limits in school zones and respect bus stop arms. Keeping our children safe is a shared responsibility.
As we move into the second half of the year, we’re eager to share more updates and keep working on your behalf. Thanks for your ongoing support! Feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions.
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
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.
4 COUNCIL PLANS
WHAT ARE ALL OF THESE PUDs AND WHAT DO THEY DO?
A Planned Unit Development (PUD) is a zoning tool that is used for real estate development where land is planned and developed in a comprehensive way to create a well-organized community or development project. Instead of developing land under traditional land use categories (such as residential, commercial, industrial, or recreational) and uniform land development regulations, a PUD takes a different approach.
PUDs allow for the flexibility of mixing different land uses together into a single, unified development, while also providing more specific design standards (such as building architecture and landscaping requirements) for each unique project.
PUDs might include a variety of housing types, such as single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, all within the same area. Some PUDs allow for commercial (shops and offices) or industrial (manufacturing, assembly, or warehousing) uses. Larger PUDs will integrate these different uses and types of housing in a way that maximizes efficiency and enhances quality of life.
By planning everything together, PUDs aim to create more cohesive, functional, and attractive communities. Some notable PUDs in Westfield are the neighborhoods of Harmony, Viking Meadows, Northpoint, and Chatham Hills.
Scan here for more information.
Notice: The City of Westfield no longer accepts cash as a form of payment.
WHERE’S WILLIS UPCOMING EVENTS
THE MAYOR’S GRAND GALA
OCTOBER 5 | 6 - 10 P.M.
Grand Park Sports Campus
MAYOR WILLIS TOWN HALL
SEPTEMBER 12 | 7 P.M.
Westfield Washington Public Library
NOVEMBER 14 | 7 P.M.
The Bridgewater Club
VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
NOVEMBER 11 | 7:45 A.M.
The Bridgewater Club
STATE OF THE CITY LUNCHEON
NOVEMBER 21 | 11 A.M. - 1 P.M.
The Bridgewater Club
GLOBALLY DIVERSE DISTRICT
Westfield is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation and that is reflected in the global diversity of Westfield Washington Schools. There are more than 70 languages spoken in the homes of our students and Westfield High School puts that on display with flags from the home countries of its students. This colorful showcase is a daily reminder of the worldwide reach of our students that enriches the school and the community.
Shamrock Springs Elementary School recently held a Heritage Night where students exhibited traditional clothing, cuisine, and cultural artifacts of their ancestral homelands. Events like these not only foster pride among students but also educate and engage the entire community in a celebration of global cultures.
Furthering our commitment to inclusion and shaping Life Ready Rocks, Westfield High School offers robust exchange student programs. Recently, we hosted 40 Japanese exchange students, providing them with a firsthand experience of American culture and education. This summer, 25 Westfield High School students traveled to Japan and immersed themselves in Japanese culture, language, and traditions. These invaluable experiences broaden students’ horizons, foster cross-cultural friendships, and prepare them for an interconnected world.
Please consider opening your homes and hearts to exchange students to further our cultural exchange while creating lasting bonds and enriching our community in ways you might not have imagined. This helps create a dynamic environment that prepares our Rocks for a global workforce by providing them with rich experiences.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Homecoming Parade October 3
Scan to learn more about the exchange program.
Homecoming Game October 4
Avon High School | 7 P.M.
Fall Break (no school) October 21-25
Extended Learning Day November 7-8 (students not in session)
Rock-a-Thon September 20
Rocksgiving November 25
SHAMROCK BLAST
Did you know Westfield Washington Schools sends out a weekly newsletter filled with student accomplishments, athletic updates, performing arts events, community connections, and much more?
Scan the following QR code to sign up.
DESTINATION WESTFIELD
We would like to thank our community for your confidence in Destination Westfield, our plan that allows us to continue providing nationally recognized academic and extracurricular experiences while rapidly expanding. Our district is currently in great shape and we are preparing for an even brighter future. The Carey Ridge Elementary School expansion and new tennis complex have been completed and are currently being used.
For the most up-to-date pictures and information on all of our ongoing projects, scan the QR code to visit our website.
future schools, transportation center, and the former library building will look like.
SHAMROCK STATION (FORMER LIBRARY BUILDING)
TRANSPORTATION CENTER
SCHEDULED COMPLETION: JUNE 2025
VIRGINIA F. WOOD EARLY LEARNING CENTER EXPANSION
SCHEDULED COMPLETION: AUGUST 2025
SHAMROCK SPRINGS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
SCHEDULED COMPLETION: AUGUST 2026
SCHEDULED COMPLETION: JUNE 2025
MIDLAND CROSSING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
SCHEDULED COMPLETION: AUGUST 2026
WESTFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL WEST
SCHEDULED COMPLETION: AUGUST 2027
UPDATES ON THE SIMON MOON PARK PROJECT
Exciting updates are underway for our community project! The front parking lot and trail have been freshly paved, and the 171st Street perimeter trail is open. In mid-August, the final grading of the pond was finished, allowing it to start filling up once more. Progress on the northeast boardwalk is moving smoothly. The bridge supports were poured, and the bridge will arrive soon. Plantings around the pond are planned to begin in early September. Overall, everything is on schedule for project completion by the end of November.
MEAT YOUR NEW FAVORITE SPOT: H STEAKHOUSE COMING TO WESTFIELD
Westfield Steakhouse is set to become a prominent new dining destination in downtown Westfield, located near the intersection of Mill and Jersey Streets. With an investment of $6.4 million, the restaurant will be owned by local restaurateur Henri Najem and will occupy a spacious 9,500-square-foot area. Designed to accommodate over 200 guests, the venue will feature an elegant ambiance and a year-round patio for outdoor dining. The restaurant will be operated by Najem’s sons, Nick and Alec, and will offer a diverse menu that includes handmade pasta, fresh seafood, free-range chicken, and USDA prime-aged beef. Westfield Steakhouse is slated to open in 2025, coinciding with the launch of the Union Square parking garage, promising a new culinary hotspot for the community.
ICAC INVESTIGATOR OF THE YEAR
The Westfield Police Department is proud to announce that Detective Tyler Mitchell has been awarded the 2023 ICAC Investigator of the Year award by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Detective Mitchell’s exceptional work within the Hamilton County Metro Child Exploitation Task Force (HCMCETF) has significantly contributed to protecting children and apprehending offenders. The Indiana ICAC Task Force is dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and preventing internet crimes against children across the state.
PATRICK HUTCHISON APPOINTED
Governor Eric Holcomb has appointed Patrick Hutchison, EMS Division Chief of the Westfield Fire Department, to the Indiana Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Commission. Chief Hutchison will represent municipal fire services on the commission until September 30, 2026. He brings extensive experience, proven leadership, and a dedication to emergency medical services. His role will involve overseeing and implementing policies to ensure high standards of emergency medical care in Indiana. Chief Hutchison has been with WFD since 2019 and has been an EMS provider since 1983.
For more information about the Indiana EMS Commission, please visit: in.gov/dhs/ems/#EMS_Commission
WPD ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP APPOINTMENTS
Westfield Police Chief Shawn Keen has appointed two leaders to pivotal roles within the City of Westfield Police Department. These appointments will further advance the department’s strategic goals and operational excellence. Eric Grimes has been appointed the new Assistant Chief of Operations, while Scott Jordan will continue as Assistant Chief of Administration.
Additionally, Chief Keen has announced organizational restructuring resulting in four command-level positions, including: Mike Siara: Patrol Captain Rob Dine: Investigations Captain Billy Adams: Support Services Captain Jeffrey Swiatkowski: Special Services Captain
PARK & POPLAR WILL BE POPULAR
CIRDA has chosen the City of Westfield’s Park & Poplar Project for a $4 million grant from Indiana Economic Development Corporation READI 2.0 funding.
This mixed-use redevelopment project, estimated at $164 million between public and private investment, aims to revitalize downtown Westfield with a boutique hotel, office spaces, retail, and multifamily residences. The project will also include a public parking facility and will integrate with the Midland Trace Trail, contributing to the area’s walkability and appeal. Mayor Scott Willis emphasized the project’s potential to meet community needs and enhance downtown Westfield’s vibrancy.
THE “GREEN BUILDING” MAKES A MOVE
102 S. Union Street, also known as “The Green Building,” moved to the parcel directly to the east of its previous site. The building will eventually move to its permanent location on North Union Street, directly west of Westfield City Hall and south of Westfield Basile Playhouse.
Scan the QR code to see the building in action! A special thank you to the Westfield Washington Historical Society & Museum for providing the photo.
BOB FUNDERBURGH & A CLERK PICTURED
“GREEN BUILDING” WAS ONCE A GROCERY STORE
UNDERSTAND THE 2025 COMP PLAN
Rundell Ernstberger Associates (REA) has been approved to lead the development of a new Comprehensive Plan, Economic Impact Study, and Infrastructure Plan for the City of Westfield. The team includes national firms specializing in land use scenario planning, economic development, fiscal impact, and civil and transportation engineering, as well as project branding.
This includes:
• Orion Planning and Design from Missoula, Montana, specializing in land use scenario planning
• Urban 3 from Asheville, North Carolina, specializing in economic development and fiscal impact
• Lochmueller Group from Indianapolis, specializing in civil and transportation engineering
• Shannon Z. Creative from Indianapolis, leading the project branding
The update will focus on key areas such as land use and zoning, transportation and infrastructure, economic development, sustainability and environment, and community engagement. The process will involve public meetings, workshops, and surveys to gather input from residents, business owners, and stakeholders.
The City of Westfield anticipates that the comprehensive plan update will begin in early Fall and will take up to 18 months to complete, with opportunities for public involvement throughout the process.
COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK: BUILDING FOR BETTER CARE
In June, Community Health Network announced they are building a new 425,000-square-foot healthcare campus in Westfield, located near 196th Street and US 31. The facility will include an ambulatory surgery center, medical office building, emergency department, and six-story patient tower, offering a range of services. The project involves renovating two existing buildings and constructing a 100-bed inpatient tower.
Expected completion dates are the first quarter of 2025 for the medical office building and mid2026 for the surgery center, hospital service building, and hospital tower. The project represents a $335 million investment.
Searching for a new bank? Restaurant? Contractor?
The second annual Showcase & Taste of Westfield is on October 3rd from 4 - 6:30 p.m. at Grand Park! At our largest public event of the year, exhibitors put their businesses on display to connect with residents and consumers in our area.
Discover the best that Westfield has to offer in one place! Exhibitors include food and beverage establishments, healthcare and service providers, legal professionals, entertainment venues, contractors, and more! Food and beverage establishments including restaurants, caterers, wineries, and breweries are encouraged to provide menu tastings and samples.
This public event is the answer to solving your household and business needs. We look forward to showcasing a taste of who comprises our thriving community!
Tickets are now on sale at westfieldchamberindy.com
Mayor’s Council on Disabilities
The Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities works tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of those with a disability in the Westfield community through education, advocacy, and partnerships with local non-profits, businesses, the school district, support groups, and other disability resources. The Westfield Chamber of Commerce is a proud partner of this initiative to support accessibility for all in our community.
About the Chamber
The Westfield Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Westfield Association 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 learn how to get involved on our website!
