FS1 Steering Committee - 08/07/26

The Westwood FS1 Steering Committee held a joint meeting with the Select Board on August 7, 2026, to evaluate and recommend a preferred site for the new Fire Station 1. The committee reviewed three potential town-owned sites: the existing fire station at 637 High Street, the former Deerfield Elementary School site, and a parcel behind Starbucks. After extensive public engagement, technical studies, and feasibility analyses, the committee voted to remove the Starbucks site from consideration due to significant community opposition, acquisition challenges, environmental remediation costs, and higher estimated project costs. The committee then adopted a revised site evaluation matrix incorporating community feedback and cost considerations. Ultimately, the committee recommended the Deerfield site as the preferred location, citing better functionality, construction feasibility, expansion potential, and community support. The Select Board acknowledged the recommendation and discussed next steps, including schematic design and financing plans. The meeting also addressed temporary operational arrangements, zoning and variance issues, environmental concerns, and potential reuse of the existing fire station site. Motions to approve meeting minutes and adjourn were passed unanimously.