Democratic Candidate For Westfield Mayor Lays Out Objectives Ahead Of November

WESTFIELD, NJ — Small business owner Jeremy Berman (D) has laid out his vision for the Town of Westfield as he continues to campaign for the mayor's office in November.

Berman is facing off against current Ward 3 Councilman Mike Domogala (R) in the general election after Mayor Shelley Brindle announced earlier this year that she will not seek a third term. She will exit after holding the position since 2017.

Berman is the first U.S. franchisee for a virtual reality gaming company, which he now owns and operates in both Paramus and Woodbridge, and has never held a position in public office. He says his approach to taking on this potential four-year term includes "drawing on our past successes, addressing our challenges, and ensuring our community continues to thrive."

His plan, announced by him and his team in September, will be centered on preventing overdevelopment, promoting community engagement, and safety. Highlights from the full priorities and plan guide include:

Communication and Community

Berman pledges to ensure Westfield's AAA bond rating and continue with 0 percent increases in municipal budget taxes.

Development

Westfield would have no new redevelopment areas or zoning changes for multi-family projects, other than what's already approved or required with state laws. This includes not encroaching on single-family zoned communities.

Berman says he will enter into an agreement to provide some development PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) funding to Westfield Public Schools, and grow the Historic Preservation Commission in order to save dwindling structures in the area.

Safety and Security

A new Westfield Fire Department headquarters that is "modern and fully equipped" will be built. Town government will also be aided by an increase in cybersecurity resources.

Berman pledges to install pedestrian-led lights and create separated bike lanes along roadways. He says he will also improve sidewalks, curbs and bring strong safety measures to guard against dangerous usage of e-bikes and motorized bikes by underage users.

"Since launching my campaign for mayor, I have had the privilege of meeting with and listening to residents across Westfield," Berman adds. "These conversations and my 15 years living in town continue to reinforce my belief that our community is strong and Westfield is an undeniably great place to live."

Berman is a graduate of Columbia Business School with a background in finance. He and his wife Erica have lived in Westfield for nearly 15 years, raising his 14-year-old son Zach and 11-year-old son Charlie. As a youth sports coach in Westfield for more than 10 years, Berman says he's looking to further spotlight the role recreation and community play in making the town special.

Patch will be bringing you more on Berman and all of the other candidates and races ahead of voting in November. Check back for in-depth profiles and coverage of the issues that matter most in your area.

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