Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Variety of Matters Focus of Gardner City Council Meeting
The council approved several licensing applications for local businesses, including a bowling alley and multiple secondhand article dealers. Significant debate occurred regarding personnel ordinances, specifically the creation of a Chief of Staff position and adjustments to the youth center’s compensation schedule. Additionally, the Mayor and councilors addressed accessibility concerns due to a broken elevator at City Hall, outlining temporary accommodations for the public. The session concluded with celebratory remarks regarding local high school achievements, the completion of a new emergency operations kitchen, and the announcement of the upcoming summer budget schedule.
The Council debated a measure to replace the current “Executive Aide” position in the Mayor’s office with a “Chief of Staff.”
- Proposed Changes: The role includes a title change, expanded responsibilities, and a modest pay increase.
- Fiscal Contingency: Councilor Heglin emphasized that support for this position is contingent upon identifying offsetting cuts within the Mayor’s budget to ensure the change produces overall savings.
- Status: The question was postponed until the June 15 regular meeting to allow for further evaluation alongside the final budget.
Upcoming Budget Schedule of the City Council
- June 8: First special budget meeting.
- June 15: Regular City Council meeting.
- June 17: Deadline for Councilors to submit budget amendments to the Clerk’s office.
- June 22: Second special budget meeting to discuss compiled amendments.
- June 29: Reserved date for a potential budget veto override vote.
Click on either infographic for a larger view: City Council 6-1-26 and Beyond the Gavel, 5 Surprising Lessons
