Westfield Planning Board Finds Removal of Historic Designation From Home Inconsistent With Master Plan

The Westfield Planning Board voted unanimously that a proposed ordinance to remove the local historic landmark designation from a home at 18 Stoneleigh Park is inconsistent with the town's Master Plan. The advisory ruling was delivered to the Westfield Town Council ahead of a final vote on General Ordinance No. 2026-15, which seeks to de-designate the residential property and update the local zoning map.

The Stoneleigh Park residence was originally designated as a local historic landmark in May 2023 with the voluntary consent of the property owners. Union County Life confirmed that owner Donald R. Furrer subsequently petitioned the mayor and council to remove the historic designation, prompting municipal leaders to draft relief language based on property owner rights and specific life circumstances.

During public testimony, Westfield Historic Preservation Commission representative Jennifer Jaruzelski reported that the preservation commission also voted unanimously against removing the landmark status. Opponents emphasized that Stoneleigh Park is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places as Westfield's only nationally recognized historic neighborhood, warning that de-designation risks undermining local preservation standards and setting a troubling precedent for future buyers or developers.

Council members acknowledged the tension between preserving historic architecture and respecting private property rights. Town leaders noted that because local historic landmark status is voluntary, the proposed ordinance attempts to accommodate unique owner circumstances while maintaining safeguards against routine tear-downs by outside builders.

Westfield residents seeking planning board meeting minutes, historic preservation guidelines, or pending municipal land use ordinances can contact the Westfield Planning and Zoning Department at nine zero eight seven eigh nine four zero zero zero or visit westfieldnj.gov.

FAQ

Q: Why did the Westfield Planning Board vote against removing the historic designation from 18 Stoneleigh Park? A: The board determined that stripping the local historic landmark status contradicts the town Master Plan's commitment to historic preservation.

Q: Is Stoneleigh Park a recognized historic district in Westfield? A: Yes, Stoneleigh Park is listed on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places as a historically significant neighborhood.

Q: Can the Westfield Town Council still vote on the de-designation ordinance despite the Planning Board's vote? A: Yes, under New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law, the council can vote on the ordinance after reviewing the Planning Board's advisory master plan consistency report.