Message from the Mayor of Westfield
As we approach the end of 2020, I’d like to take the opportunity to thank the members of the Westfield community for your perseverance in what has been a year like no other. This pandemic has required all of us to change our way of life and put others before ourselves in order to protect our public health. I remain exceedingly grateful every day to the many residents who take this shared responsibility seriously.
Sadly, COVID-19 cases continue to surge throughout the country, a trend we also see reflected here in New Jersey and more locally in Westfield. In addition, statewide and regionally, COVID-related hospitalizations, ICU admissions, ventilator usage, and even deaths continue to rise. The health and safety of every resident is my top priority, and it is my hope that we can take steps now to avoid a worsening trend.
Public health is everyone’s responsibility, and I know that our community-minded residents care deeply about their neighbors, and about the survival of our local businesses. I am asking you to do all that you can to prevent this virus from spreading further, which means taking significant additional precautions during this holiday season. What is normally a time for gatherings with loved ones near and far will simply have to look different this year. Please keep your celebrations outdoors whenever possible, and only with small groups indoors (ten people or less) in well-ventilated spaces with proper distancing and hand washing measures.
It’s not easy to make these changes, especially with colder weather upon us, but it’s incredibly important — not only in terms of health, but also economic vitality. Remember that our local businesses depend very heavily on this holiday season, and any additional closures in this timeframe would be devastating to them. Please commit to shopping local this season, and when you do, please be sure to wear a mask! If you are sick, please do your part and give your full cooperation to contact tracers, who are working tirelessly in our best interest to assess the level of the virus’ community spread.
As a reminder, you can receive my regular COVID-19 updates by enrolling at westfieldnj.gov/townupdates, or by visiting my Facebook page.
I know we all share the common goal of returning to normalcy, and with encouraging news about vaccines, those days are just around the corner. Let’s all do our part for just a bit longer to ensure the safety and good health of our community.
I wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season, and best wishes for a brighter new year ahead.
Mayor Shelley Brindle
