Halt Construction of a Re-Entry Facility near Westfield Schools

The Issue

The proposed construction of a re-entry facility near Westfield schools has become a source of significant concern for local residents, parents, and school authorities. The facility, intended to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals into society, poses potential risks to the safety and security of school-going children and the surrounding community. We, the undersigned residents of Westfield, Massachusetts, respectfully request that city and state officials immediately halt or relocate the proposed re-entry facility planned near Southampton Road and within close proximity to local schools. This project moved forward without meaningful public input, despite its location near elementary schools and residential neighborhoods. Residents deserve transparency, safety assurances, and an opportunity to participate in decisions that affect our community and our children. 
We request: 1. Immediate suspension of the project 2. A full public review process 3 Consideration of alternative locations away from schools and residential neighborhoods. 
We ask our city and state leaders to prioritize the safety and voice of the Westfield community. 
We urge local government officials and stakeholders to reconsider the site selection for this development. Alternatives exist, such as placing the facility in a more industrial or commercially zoned area, away from schools and residential neighborhoods, where it can operate effectively without raising safety concerns. 
It's crucial for the community's voice to be heard on matters that affect the safety and well-being of our children and the integrity of our educational spaces. By signing this petition, you advocate for a decision that prioritizes the safety, educational stability, and community welfare of Westfield. Let us work together to find a more suitable location for the re-entry facility that respects the needs and concerns of all community members.

1,995

The Issue

The proposed construction of a re-entry facility near Westfield schools has become a source of significant concern for local residents, parents, and school authorities. The facility, intended to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals into society, poses potential risks to the safety and security of school-going children and the surrounding community. We, the undersigned residents of Westfield, Massachusetts, respectfully request that city and state officials immediately halt or relocate the proposed re-entry facility planned near Southampton Road and within close proximity to local schools. This project moved forward without meaningful public input, despite its location near elementary schools and residential neighborhoods. Residents deserve transparency, safety assurances, and an opportunity to participate in decisions that affect our community and our children. 
We request: 1. Immediate suspension of the project 2. A full public review process 3 Consideration of alternative locations away from schools and residential neighborhoods. 
We ask our city and state leaders to prioritize the safety and voice of the Westfield community. 
We urge local government officials and stakeholders to reconsider the site selection for this development. Alternatives exist, such as placing the facility in a more industrial or commercially zoned area, away from schools and residential neighborhoods, where it can operate effectively without raising safety concerns. 
It's crucial for the community's voice to be heard on matters that affect the safety and well-being of our children and the integrity of our educational spaces. By signing this petition, you advocate for a decision that prioritizes the safety, educational stability, and community welfare of Westfield. Let us work together to find a more suitable location for the re-entry facility that respects the needs and concerns of all community members.

The Decision Makers

Westfield City Council
8 Members
1 Responded
Kristen Mello
Westfield City Council - At Large
Placing a re-entry facility at 182-184 Southampton Road is a disservice to both the community and clients involved. This location does not currently have the water or sewer/septic facilities to support a 24/7 residential facility for 40 adults. The Dover Amendment doesn't eliminate water, sanitation, fire safety, or Title V requirements. The fixes require construction projects that may be prohibitively expensive and time consuming. Meaningful community engagement would have raised these issues much sooner. I strongly believe that re-entry support can help formerly incarcerated people successfully reintegrate into communities after release, AND that their location matters. The lack of transparency and honest communication about this project has created fear for the safety of our nearby school children and families when the site isn't even fit for the proposed use. When things don't add up, you're not seeing all the math. This is wrong from every angle. Sincerely, Kristen
Daniel Knapik
Westfield City Council - At Large
Cindy Harris
Westfield City Council - At Large
Michael McCabe
Westfield City Mayor

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates