One Westfield Place Challengers File New Appeal

WESTFIELD, NJ — Another legal appeal was filed to try and stop the construction of One Westfield Place.

The Westfield Advocates' latest claim was again targeting the center's amended redevelopment plan that provides the Town with financial protections and a reduction in the amount of bond money needed. Additional specifics of the appeal were not immediately available.

Mayor Shelley Brindle told the floor at the latest Town Council meeting that they learned of this new claim during the week of Oct. 19.

"Many have asked why the Advocates are pursuing yet another appeal, and the answer, I think, is very clear," Brindle said. "It has always been to cause delays."

The court has ruled in the Town's favor in each of the four times that the advocates have challenged the construction of the downtown district.

In September, the Westfield Advocates said they "will continue to monitor the development of this project and others, as well as the overall NJ development process and statutes - to advocate for the long-term interests of Westfield residents to maintain and prioritize the convenient commuter access and suburban town charm we currently enjoy."

Signage will soon appear on properties and leasing efforts that are underway, Brindle said on Oct. 28. "Unfortunately, the legal action by the Advocates does nothing but waste valuable Town resources," she added.

Officials have still not announced a date for breaking ground on the project, one that Brindle says will infuse $375 million into the downtown economy and another $42 million in infrastructure and streetscape improvements. Continuing, she highlights the "$165MM in PILOT revenue will diversify and stabilize our tax base, benefiting all taxpayers."

Patch reached out to the Westfield Advocates for Responsible Development who said they have no comment on the new developments.

RELATED COVERAGE:

• Lawsuit Appeal Dismissed, One Westfield Place 'Moving Forward With Renewed Momentum'
• One Westfield Place Moves Closer To Becoming A Reality
• Split Down Party Lines: Council Approves One Westfield Place Changes