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Westwood HPC reviews multiple designation projects, approves member training
Summary
The commission reviewed several ongoing designation projects — including the Westwood Trust Building and Veteran’s Memorial Park — confirmed encumbered funds of $1,200 each for the Trust Building and Veteran’s Park, swore in two members, and approved a member’s attendance at a preservation training course ($150).
The Borough of Westwood Historic Preservation Commission reviewed multiple designation projects and administrative items at its Jan. 15 meeting.
Commissioners discussed designation work underway on the Westwood Trust Building (the former Bank of America building at Westwood Avenue and Broadway; Lot 9, Block 907) and reported that a designation process is in progress. Additional projects in process include Veteran’s Memorial Park and its bandstand (with a report by T. Adriance in progress), the Pascack Movie Theater, Fireman’s Park and the Westwood Train Station. The commission also compiled a list of future designation candidates such as Conrad’s Confectionery, the Diner (current site of 1950s Originals), Westwood Library (49 Park Ave), Grace Episcopal Church (Kinderkamack Road), Berkeley Elementary School, Volz Hardware building, and 19/25 Boulevard (Bogert Built Furniture/office building).
The minutes list encumbered funds from the 2025 budget that remain allocated for preservation work: $1,200 for the Westwood Trust Building and $1,200 for Veteran’s Park; an amount reserved for a Bergen 250 trolley celebration was listed as to be confirmed. The commission noted the 2026 budget is pending.
Christine Scheideler, the commission secretary, was recorded as submitting the December 2025 minutes for approval; Ann Costello moved to accept the minutes and Mike Bieri seconded the motion. The motion passed (votes recorded in favor: R. Berkoben, N. Grefrath, J. Martin, C. Scheideler, L. Scheideler). Scheideler was instructed to forward the approved minutes to the clerk for posting on the borough website.
The commission also approved a motion allowing Rachel Berkoben to attend "The 5 Pillars of Preventative Conservation Course" (cost $150; course dates 4/14/26–5/12/26). The motion to approve Berkoben’s attendance was moved by N. Grefrath and seconded by A. Costello; the vote was recorded in favor (R. Berkoben, M. Bieri, J. Martin, C. Scheideler, L. Scheideler).
Separately, the minutes record the swearing in of Noeline Grefrath and Lou Scheideler to new terms. The meeting adjourned at 7:51 p.m.; the next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 19, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in Westwood Borough Hall.
