Westfield Ward 3 General Election 2025: Jennifer Gilman

NEW JERSEY - The general election season is in full swing in the Garden State and Patch has asked local candidates to share their thoughts before Nov. 4.

Editor's Note: Patch sent out emails to all candidates to the email addresses listed for their campaign provided to the office of the clerk. The responses received will be published between now and the general election. Contact edward.callahan@patch.com with any questions regarding coverage.

Name: Jennifer Gilman

Age: 45

Town of residence: Westfield, NJ

Position sought: 3rd Ward Council Member

Party affiliation: Democrat

Family: Married to Keith, daughters Hannah (15) and Lila (13)

Education: Magna cum laude graduate of Boston College, double major in Elementary Education and Human Development

Occupation: Educator, child sleep consultant

Previous or current elected or appointed office: Chairwoman, Westfield Recreation Commission; Board of Trustees member, Temple Emanu-El

Why are you seeking office?

I’m running for Town Council because I love Westfield. My husband Keith and I chose this town to raise our daughters, and over the past nine years, it has become more than just where we live — it’s our community, our home.

I want to give back to the town that’s given us so much by ensuring it remains safe, welcoming, and vibrant for all residents. I’ve spent years serving Westfield through schools, nonprofits, and town commissions, and I’m ready to bring that hands-on experience to the Town Council.

What's your reaction when you see businesses, etc. vacate downtown? What do you look for in new tenants?

It’s always disheartening to see businesses leave our downtown. Each vacancy represents a loss not just economically, but also in terms of vibrancy and community identity.

In seeking new tenants, I look for businesses that meet the needs of residents, align with our community values, and add to the unique charm of downtown Westfield. We should continue working to attract a mix of retail, dining, service, and cultural spaces that serve both residents and visitors, while supporting our existing small businesses to help them thrive.

What's your approach to overdevelopment concerns in Westfield?

The effects of previous administrations’ development approvals will be felt for years to come. We need to assess those impacts — especially on traffic, infrastructure, and schools — before considering any new projects.

I will advocate for smart, deliberate growth that protects Westfield’s suburban character, includes input from residents, and delivers tangible benefits, such as traffic mitigation and public space investment.

In Ward 3, traffic concerns are particularly acute, and I will work to address these with modern traffic technology and strong enforcement of safety laws.

Talk to me about public safety, whether it's your idea on how to help prevent vehicles being broken into around Westfield, or some other concern, where do you see an opportunity to improve?

Keeping Westfield safe is my top priority. Our state-accredited Police Department does excellent work, and I will continue to support investments in tools and staffing — such as license plate readers — that have already helped reduce crime.

To further prevent incidents like car break-ins, we need continued public awareness campaigns encouraging residents to lock their vehicles and remove valuables. I will also prioritize strong partnerships with law enforcement and ensure our officers have the resources they need for ongoing success.

An opportunity to improve public safety is in Westfield’s mobility challenges. That includes traffic congestion, pedestrian and cycling safety, investing in modern traffic light infrastructure, sidewalk improvements, and traffic enforcement.

What do you believe is the most important concern to address when implementing a project such as the multi-million dollar proposed improvements to Houlihan-Sid Fay Fields?

The entire Houlihan-Sid Fay project is rooted in safety, which is always the most important area to focus on. The slated improvements will address longstanding safety concerns around entering/exiting the parking lot, visibility, and space to park safely.

A new, separate entrance will improve traffic flow within the parking lot and allow for the existing entrance/exit to be solely for exiting the parking lot. The lighting that will be added to the parking lot will increase visibility.

The increase in parking capacity from 45 spaces to 119 spaces will allow more people to park off of highly-trafficked Lamberts Mill Rd.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I bring a hands-on, service-driven approach to leadership. I’m not a political insider — I’m a mom, an educator, a small business owner, and a long-time volunteer who’s been deeply involved in our schools, parks, and public safety efforts.

I’ve led as PTO President at Jefferson and Edison Schools, Girl Scout troop leader, and Chairwoman of the Recreation Commission. I’ve organized the largest PTO fundraiser for Jefferson–the Jefferson Jubilee–three times.

I’ve helped deliver inclusive playgrounds, expanded recreation events like Tour de Westfield, and advocated for safe, accessible public spaces. My experience working collaboratively with residents and local departments shows that I know how to listen, lead, and get things done.

What's a motto you live your life by?

A motto close to my heart is “Men and Women for Others,” the motto of Boston College, my alma mater. It speaks to a life of service, empathy, and community engagement — values that have guided me both personally and professionally.

What does it mean to you to represent Westfield?

To represent Westfield means listening to residents, advocating for what matters most to them, and working every day with integrity and transparency. It means preserving what makes this town so special while addressing challenges head-on — from traffic safety to responsible budgeting.

It’s about being accessible, collaborative, and focused on making Westfield a better place for all who live here. For me, it’s personal — I’m invested in this community and committed to serving it with everything I have.

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