Councilor Brad Heglin Provides Report on Waterford Community Center
During the City Council meeting of October 6, 2025, Gardner City Councilor Brad Heglin provided a report on the Waterford Community Center. Listen to the report and further comments by Councilors Kazinskas, Mack, and Heath on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Councilor Heglin stated that some of the information being spread online has caused confusion. Heglin spoke about a recent information session. “So it was a long and thorough presentation that was given. It covered the product history, the federal, state, and nonprofit investment made, and some idea of what the space could look like when finished. We ended with a Q&A session that lasted well over half an hour with the residents.
“Some of us even lingered further to talk more. There were great questions asked, very good suggestions made from our seniors, which was really exciting to hear directly from them about the things that they’re most looking forward to enjoying about the new space. And we took a lot of good notes, and we’ll definitely consider that feedback and where we can apply those suggestions as the project moves forward. So because that meeting was so successful, we then decided to take a focus group of Senior Center employees and volunteers to tour the space for even more feedback. The three who were with us who had not yet seen the space were very excited about the move and the potential that the new location holds for the Senior Center.”
Councilor Heglin stated the building is safe despite the rumors and rhetoric that’s out there: “It’s not an understatement to say that this is a big project. A lot of work is being done and is being done correctly and with safety of all in mind. That’s the reason for my appointment by the Council President and the Mayor to help increase the communication, awareness and transparency about this project because it is such a big initiative and change for us here in the city of Gardner. Between the numerous contractors, local, state and federal departments that have thoroughly worked in, inspected and tested the building when appropriate, and that will continue. So again, despite the rumors and rhetoric that’s out there, work is being done properly. Our building is safe because the end goal is clear to be responsible stewards of our municipal buildings and put the Waterford Street School back into public service as the first community center in our city’s history.”
Councilor Kazinskas commented: “think it’s really important to that the oversight of the Council is able to be reported at a meeting where, again, it’s good, correct, and updated information. So I appreciate that.”
Councilor Mack commented: “…Rumors or incorrect information is just counterproductive to this process, and I appreciate Councilor Heglin for his involvement in keeping everybody up to date and holding meetings. And if anybody has questions, that they should reach out to Councilor Heglin or to the Mayor’s office and get the truth.“
Councilor Health commented about the Growing Places space: “It doesn’t even look the same in that building. It looks, it’s beautiful. It’s very clean. …You can eat off the floors in that place. It’s that clean inside of there.”