Finance Committee 7 3 23
Finance Committee July 3, 2023

Paul DeMeo strongly rebuked by Gardner MA Councilor Dernalowicz

At a Finance Committee Meeting of July 3, 2023, an Open Meeting Law complaint by Paul DeMeo was taken up. It is unclear yet whether the complaint will simply be considered frivolous by the AG’s office, as even unapproved meeting minutes are available from the City Clerk and meetings are available on YouTube in a day or so after the meeting. Councilor Dernalowicz stated, “…to imply that there’s something nefarious occurring or something being hidden by this committee or any other body in the city of Gardner, I think is disingenuous and misleading on this person’s behalf.” Council President Kazinskas stated, “ I do appreciate that we have everything online, and I think that speaks to transparency we try to do in this city.” We checked with the City Clerk’s office and as far they know, there are no current restrictions on DeMeo’s ability to visit that office.

In a response voted to be sent by the Gardner City Council in its later meeting of July 3, 2023, it will be stated that there was no OML violation. We have contacted Paul DeMeo but have not heard back.