Johnson characterized Westfield as a bedroom community, where most of the businesses, including grocery stores and restaurants, serve primarily the local population. To attract businesses that serve residents and outsiders, the town has started working on the Westfield Economic Development Initiative, Johnston said. Town and county officials, local business leaders and school officials are meeting to determine how to market the town to outside businesses. Bringing in new businesses will not only create more jobs, it will also increase the tax base which will lower residential property taxes and create a strong local economy, he said. To accommodate the growth, noted Johnston, it's imperative to upgrade fire, police and other town services.
Schools figure into the picture, as well.
Westfield Washington schools officials have made some pro-active decisions. The town is also considering building a fire station on the outskirts to replace the downtown station. A single developer will add 75 acres to Westfield's 22.15 acres of park land. The 1,079-lot Countryside subdivision on the town's west side will include 75 acres of public parks and trails, increasing park acreage to 102.35 acres by 2007.