Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Delivers State of the City Address January 10, 2023
Mayor Nicholson took office in 2020 after a Special Election right in the middle of Covid and won his first regular term in 2021. He presided over a successful vaccine rollout which was touted as a model for the rest of the State of MA. During his tenure thus far, the City of Gardner has had success in the key areas of bringing in new businesses, addressing the need to renovate properties, finding the best uses for City property, and focusing on improving Gardner’s Educational system.
In his speech, the Mayor opened with a reflection that Gardner was right in the middle of Covid two years ago, “When I stood here to deliver this speech for my first time, there were only ten people in the room…I concluded those remarks by stating that despite the uncertainty of the time I was optimistic about the next years for our City…”
Progress and Success
The Mayor stated, “I’m proud to stand here today and say that we’ve stayed on that path and have set ourselves on a trajectory for continued success as we enter the next century in our city’s history…” Mayor Nicholson detailed the improvements in Gardner’s financial standing, the concerted efforts to return blighted and underutilized properties to the tax rolls, investing in the schools, investments in the City’s infrastructure including paving and water pipes, the success of economic development efforts as “our commercial base continues to grow”, increased recreational opportunities, and various plans for the future including various groundbreaking to occur in 2023 including the Rear Main Street Project.
Future Vision
Mayor Nicholson stated his vision, “Gardner needs to be, and thrives as a well oiled machine when we all work together for the same goal. As we move into this new year and the next chapter in our in our city’s history, I look forward to us continuing to work together and setting the example for others to follow.” Entire Speech on pdf. CLICK HERE.
Listen here on any device. Click Play