Welcoming Bill Webster as the New Board President of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy
A Lifelong Appreciation for Preservation and Community
Bill and his partner, Jeff Dugan, moved to Chestnut Hill in 2018, drawn by its rich history, stunning architecture, and strong sense of community. “Chestnut Hill is unique in that it’s a walkable, engaging neighborhood where people genuinely connect,” Bill shares. “Germantown Avenue, with its historic charm and vibrant energy, really captures what makes this place special.”
Bill’s passion for preservation and conservation was shaped early in life. Growing up near Washington, D.C., he witnessed firsthand how urban renewal could either erase a community’s character or strengthen it through collective action. “I saw the stark contrast between areas like Southwest Washington, where everything was torn down in the name of progress, and neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Georgetown, where engaged residents came together to protect their architectural and cultural heritage,” he explains. “That experience taught me two things: how vulnerable a community can be if it’s taken for granted—and how powerful it can be when people work together to protect it.”
This perspective aligns deeply with the Conservancy’s mission. “Chestnut Hill and the surrounding communities are extraordinary places, but they’re not immune to the pressures of change,” Bill notes. “The key is ensuring that people understand their role in shaping what happens next.”
Professional Background and Alignment with the Conservancy
As SEPTA’s Chief Communications Officer, Bill leads public engagement efforts for one of the nation’s largest transit systems. His career has centered on communications, public relations, and education.
“Public transportation is about connecting people and communities—just as the Conservancy connects people to history, conservation, and preservation,” Bill explains. “Both also play a role in sustaining our community and environment.”
Bill’s previous work with the Montrose Park Historic District Association in New Jersey further cemented his dedication to preservation. His leadership was instrumental in securing State and National Historic District designations and advocating for local preservation policies.
Building on a Strong Foundation
As he steps into the role of Board President, Bill is keenly aware of the incredible work of his predecessors, particularly Eileen Javers, who served as President for the past eight years. Under her leadership, the Conservancy expanded its impact, strengthened its programs, and deepened its commitment to both preservation and conservation.
“Eileen has laid an incredible foundation for the Conservancy, and I’m grateful for her continued guidance as she remains on the board and serves on the Executive Committee,” Bill shares. “Her leadership has helped shape this organization into what it is today, and I’m honored to build on that legacy.”
Bill is also enthusiastic about working with the entire Board, whose dedication and expertise are vital to the Conservancy’s success. In addition to the Board, Bill is eager to collaborate with the Conservancy’s staff and new Executive Director, David Gest. “David brings tremendous expertise and vision to the Conservancy at an important moment,” he says. “I’m looking forward to working with him and the staff to ensure we continue to be a strong, dynamic organization that serves the Wissahickon watershed.”
Balancing Preservation, Conservation, and Responsible Growth
One of the greatest challenges and opportunities in a community like Chestnut Hill is finding harmony between preservation and conservation. Bill acknowledges that, at times, these efforts may seem at odds—balancing the protection of historic structures with environmental sustainability can be a delicate task. “We don’t prioritize one over the other,” he notes. “Instead, our goal is to strike a thoughtful balance, ensuring that our built and natural environments remain protected for future generations.”
This approach extends to development, where the Conservancy seeks to work collaboratively with stakeholders to promote sensitive growth. “We’re not against development,” Bill clarifies. “What we advocate for is responsible development—one that respects the character of Chestnut Hill and ensures that what makes this community special isn’t lost in the process.”
Education as a Key to Advocacy
One of Bill’s top priorities as Board President is expanding education—potentially including programs on easements and preservation tools and the broader landscape of local decision-making. “Many people care deeply about preservation and conservation, but they don’t always understand the mechanisms that shape what happens in their neighborhood,” he says.
This includes understanding zoning laws, variances, and by-right development, which dictate what can and cannot be built without requiring special approvals. “There’s often frustration when people feel blindsided by new development, but the reality is that some projects move forward because they fit within existing regulations,” he explains. “An informed community is a more empowered community—one that knows when and how to engage to affect a meaningful impact.”
Bill envisions the Conservancy serving as a resource for residents who want to understand these issues better and become more engaged in shaping the future of Chestnut Hill and the surrounding watershed. “Our role isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about helping the community advocate for a future that honors what makes this place special.”
Looking Ahead
As Bill steps into his role as Board President, he is excited about the Conservancy’s future and the opportunities ahead. He looks forward to strengthening partnerships within the Wissahickon watershed and beyond, ensuring that the organization continues to thrive as a steward of history, conservation, and community engagement.
“Our hope is to engage an even broader part of the community in these conversations,” Bill shares. “The Conservancy should be seen as a welcoming place—somewhere people can turn to for information, support, and inspiration.”
With Bill’s leadership, the Conservancy is poised to expand its impact, ensuring that the historic and natural treasures of Chestnut Hill and the surrounding communities in the Wissahickon watershed remain protected, celebrated, and accessible for generations to come.
