The proposed Housing Ordinance would change Zoning in the City of Gardner to help alleviate the housing crisis. The presentation and discussion occurs in the first 40 minutes of the meeting.
Proposed Housing Ordinance Discussed at Public Welfare Committee Meeting
City Councilor Karen Hardern and Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson were on hand at the Public Welfare Committee Meeting of October 16, 2025 to discuss a proposed Zoning ordinance change designed to promote housing growth and production in the City of Gardner. Councilor Hardern provided an explanation as to what observations in her own ward got her interested in the issue. Gardner Mayor Nicholson said he was happy to support Councilor Hardern’s proposal. The Mayor walked through each section of the ordinance. 10 Tiny homes would be allowed per acre. Also covered are Accessory Dwelling Units, expedited permitting of no longer than 90 days, a 60 day permitting period for Veterans Housing, starter homes, multi-family housing by right in areas which have been multi-family, and parking requirements.
Councilors Dana Heath, David Thibeault Munoz and Judy Mack expressed enthusiastic support of the proposed Housing ordinance. This is all in the first 40 minutes of the meeting. Listen to the presentation by Hardern and Nicholson and the discussion with the Committee on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Also on the agenda: Department Updates from the Golf Course Commission, Historical Commission, and Veterans Department.