Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: Police Chief, Town Fire Back At Lawsuit Filed By Former Westfield Cop

Also, don't miss Meadowbrook Day Camp to Host Open House on January 11, 2026 on the Westfield Patch calendar

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Hello again Westfield! We’re bringing you the latest town highlights. Don’t miss out, keep going! ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Westfield pushes back against ex-officer’s retaliation lawsuit
  • New Westfield mayor outlines vision for safety, parks, and downtown
  • New Art Cafe blends kids’ creativity with coffee on South Avenue

Also on today's calendar: Meadowbrook Day Camp to Host Open House on January 11, 2026 and 9 more events.

Find out what's happening in Westfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: After dinner, my parents asked if I could clear the table. 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Westfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Thursday: Times of clouds and sun, with a high of 50 and low of 34 degrees.
  • Friday: A little afternoon rain, temps: high: 52, low: 45.
  • Saturday: Rain and drizzle, with a high of 51 and low of 44 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Police Chief, Town Fire Back At Lawsuit Filed By Former Westfield Cop (patch.com) — Westfield residents are learning more about the town’s official response to a lawsuit filed by former police officer Matthew O’Holla, who claims he was forced out after reporting sexual harassment. Town officials and Police Chief Christopher Battiloro deny retaliation, instead citing alleged misconduct during a welfare check and misuse of work time, and are asking a court to dismiss the case and award them costs.
   

2. Berman Takes Over As Mayor Of Westfield (patch.com) — Westfield has officially sworn in Jeremy Berman as its new mayor, along with four Democratic councilmembers, marking a fresh chapter in town leadership. In his first address, Berman highlighted Westfield’s strong finances, record police and fire staffing, upcoming park and field renovations, and plans to improve safety, downtown vitality, and quality of life for residents.
   

3. Westfield Moms Bringing New 'Art Cafe' For Children, Families To Town (patch.com) — Westfield parents now have a new creative option for their kids as two local moms open Art Cafe on South Avenue, offering sensory-based art experiences for ages 2 to 10. The Westfield location will feature weekly classes, walk-in studio time, a coffee bar with local vendors, and an art gallery showcasing works by area artists.
   

4. Second Fridays Shabbat Service & Dinner (tapinto.net) — A community Shabbat service and dinner is happening this Friday, Jan. 9, at the Union County Torah Center-Chabad, 111 Laurel Place in Westfield. Residents are invited to enjoy a warm, welcoming service followed by a full community meal, but RSVPs are required so organizers can plan appropriately.
   

5. Smok scores 3 as No. 12 Westfield blanks West Essex - Boys ice hockey recap (nj.com subscription) — Westfield High’s boys ice hockey team dominated West Essex 8-0 at Warinanco Ice Center, powered by a hat trick from Chris Smok and 17 saves from goalie Troy Conover. The Blue Devils, now 8-1, have impressively scored eight goals in each of their three shutouts this season.
   

📸 Around Westfield

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Westfield Service League Members Bring Heart, Style and Service to the Community —Linda Paul Read on Patch
  • Singer-Songwriter Naomi Less to Perform at Congregation Beth Israel —Laura Queller Read on Patch
  • Looking for recommendations for a reliable dog sitter in this area.
    Our dog was boarded recently and she got kennel cough which developed into pneumonia. So we are reluctant to board her in the future. She is a 6… (Nextdoor Westfield)
  • Allied Universal posted a job opening for Security Officer - Government Lobby Patrol in Scotch Plains. Apply here.
  • TJX Companies, Inc. posted a job opening for Merchandise Associate in Clark. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Westfield here.

Ok Westfield! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I needed a running start, but I made it!
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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