Gardner MA Public Safety Committee Meets on March 6, 2023
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The Committee heard from Deputy Police Chief Maroni who stated that the Gardner PD was still in the hiring process for 6 officers. 1 is graduating from the Police Academy on March 24th, another who is academy trained starts on March 13th, 2 will go to the Holyoke Academy, 1 will go to the Wilson Academy at the end of April, and 2 are in the process of getting the background work done so they can go to the next academy. The K-9 has finished Drug School and is back on the street now. And, the Gardner PD is using scheduling software now instead of paper. The DARE program started last week in the schools.
Gardner Fire Chief Lagoy spoke about Fire Department staffing challenges. Of 3 new recruits, one was fully trained and began work. Of 2 others, they both withdrew from the Springfield Training Academy with one due to return after an injury. Due to vacancies, the Fire Department is still experiencing high overtime expenditures. An upcoming expense is $300,000 for Fire Department radios to replace antiquated 14 year old models – cost is high due to requirements to withstand fire conditions. The Chief is hoping a grant will be found to cover the expense.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke on the job posting of the Building Commissioner and the work with an interim commissioner. The Mayor was to interview another possible interim commissioner on March 6, 2023 after this meeting.
Councillor Paul Tassone found agreement from his fellow Committee members to try making Regan Street 1 way for a 60 day trial period. The measure will be brought back to the City Council after a couple of months. Prior to that beginning, signs will be posted at least a couple of days ahead of time to let citizens know.
Mayor Nicholson brought up the need for a Food Truck ordinance and the measure was recommended to the full City Council.