I joined the Westfield Recreation Commission shortly after my now two-year-old son was born, hoping to help improve Westfield’s parks and fields for families with young children like mine. I quickly learned that Jenn Gilman, Chair of the Commission since 2021, has the right vision for Westfield’s young families and the dedication and ability necessary to achieve that vision.

Jenn understands the importance of safe, modern, and accessible spaces, as well as engaging and inclusive programming. Under her leadership, upgrades at Memorial Pool were completed this year, including new splash-pad features (I can attest, a hit with the town’s two-year-olds) and an upgraded filtration system. The Memorial Park playground also underwent a complete renovation. Most recently, the Town Council voted unanimously in favor of the Commission’s proposed improvements to Houlihan/ Sid Fay Fields, which include a new 119-space parking lot and a pavilion with bathrooms and storage.

These accomplishments are a testament to Jenn’s leadership. She consistently seeks to collaborate with stakeholders, for example, working closely with the Westfield Soccer Association and Westfield Lacrosse Club on the Houlihan/Sid Fay proposal. Jenn is also open and inclusive; Rec Commission meetings often end late because Jenn wants to make sure each Commissioner, as well as members of the public, have an opportunity to be heard.

I know that Jenn will bring this same vision, dedication, and ability to the Town Council. I have the utmost confidence that my family, and other young families in Westfield, will be in great hands under Jenn’s leadership.

Andrew Braunstein
Westfield Resident and Recreation Commission Member

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