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Gardner Board of Health Addresses Hazardous Trees and Discusses Updates on Infrastructure
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The Gardner Board of Health met on August 31, 2026, to address a hazardous tree complaint involving a local resident at 199 Water Street. While the homeowner requested financial assistance due to the high cost of removal, the board focused on public safety and voted to suspend potential fines while exploring municipal grants or resources.
The Health Department also provided updates on infrastructure, noting that the landfill and transfer station are nearing full safety compliance. Significant policy changes were discussed regarding solid waste management, including a proposal to strictly enforce the use of official city trash bags for overflow rather than providing extra bins. Additionally, the department announced upcoming public flu clinics and a new maternal and child health initiative aimed at improving local healthcare access.
The Case of Hazardous Trees: A housing complaint was initiated in May 2026 by the Gardner Housing Authority. Following an inspection, the Health Department cited the property under City Code 500-3, which mandates that properties remain free of dead or hazardous vegetation.
- Hazard Assessment: Photos and video evidence confirmed several dead trees posing an immediate fall risk. One large tree has already fallen into the neighboring Gardner Housing Authority yard.
- Ownership Resolution: A property survey conducted by Stock Surveying in August 2026 confirmed that the trees are located within the property lines of 199 Water Street, not the Housing Authority’s land.
- Resident Testimony: The homeowner, Janice Flanigan, testified that the Department of Public Works (DPW) had previously partially cleared a fallen tree years ago and allegedly promised to return to complete the work. She cited significant financial hardship, noting her reliance on Social Security income and the high cost of professional tree removal (estimated between $2,000 and $4,000).
Board Deliberation and Resolution: The Board expressed concern for the safety of nearby residents while acknowledging the homeowner’s financial constraints.
- Stay of Fines: The Board voted to suspend any fines for 30 days.
- Resource Research: The Health Department will coordinate with Community Development and the DPW to identify potential grants or senior assistance programs.
- Next Steps: The homeowner is required to provide at least one written estimate for the removal. The Board will revisit the matter at the September 28 meeting to determine if city assistance is available before “restarting the clock” on enforcement.
Upcoming Flu Clinics
The Gardner Board of Health announced several public flu clinics for the fall season:
| Date | Time | Location | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 23 | 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Gardner Senior Center | Public |
| Oct 7 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | PACC | Public |
| Oct 19 | (TBD) | Binnall House | Private (Residents only) |
| Oct 26 | 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM | City Hall | Public |