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Templeton Select Board 8-24-26 (8/25/2026)

Templeton 2 Hour Select Board Meeting – Challenges and Transitions

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Templeton Select Board 8-24-26

The Templeton Select Board meeting of August 24, 2026 addressed critical municipal transitions and fiscal challenges. The session begins with a memorial for Irene Murray before moving into a public hearing regarding a restaurant license transfer for Long Long Noodle.. Substantial discussion follows concerning a proposed tax override, where residents and officials discuss the potential impact on property values and public safety services. The board also reviews the status of animal control officer training, updates on the Main Street Bridge project, and the retirement of the Emergency Management Director. Finally, the board explores strategies for indirect billing of enterprise funds and the pursuit of professional grant writing services to improve the town’s long-term financial health.

At the end of the meeting, Select Board Chair Bennett praised Gardner Mayor Nicholson who has reached out regarding grants. Here’s what Bennett said. CLICK PLAY.

Bennett re Nicholson 8-24-26
Templeton MA – 8-24-26 (8/24/2026)

Please watch this short video prepared by Gardner Magazine which illustrates the importance of this override and avoiding catastrophic Public Safety cuts.

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady explain and discuss the issue in this podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Templeton MA Budget Crisis and Override Vote

Templeton Town Administrator James Ryan Explains Upcoming Override Vote

At the Templeton Select Board meeting of August 20, the specific override language was approved. This Press Release explains everything in detail:

On Monday, September 28, 2026, Templeton voters will be asked to decide whether the Town may levy an additional $1,388,534 in property tax revenue through a Proposition 2.5 operational override. If approved by voters and appropriated at Fall Town Meeting, the override will help balance the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and prevent further reductions to key municipal services.

The proposed FY27 budget totals $24,762,222, including Templeton’s assessment for the Narragansett Regional School District (NRSD). The NRSD budget approved at the August 3rd district-wide meeting increased Templeton’s required contribution to $9,829,831. That action created a $1,160,186 shortfall in the Town’s municipal budget, requiring either additional revenue or significant service reductions.

Town officials have already taken extensive steps to reduce spending while preserving core services. Earlier in the budget process, reductions totaling $1,118,700 were ultimately approved by the Select Board. These reductions followed months of public meetings, department reviews, and budget deliberations.

Initial FY27 budget cuts have already resulted in layoffs and service reductions, including the loss of positions in Building and Grounds, Highway, and the Police Department. The proposed override would restore the Police Department’s 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. shift, commonly referred to as the midnight shift, which was eliminated when the fiscal year began on July 1, 2026.

If the override is not approved, or if approved funds are not appropriated at Fall Town Meeting, the Town will need to reduce municipal services by $1,160,186. These reductions would affect non-school services and substantially reduce services in multiple town departments. Cuts to the general fund budget include six police officers, four firefighters, seven DPS employees, loss of hours at the Senior Center, and more.

Residents are encouraged to review the Town’s override information materials, attend public meetings, and participate in the September 28th vote. Additional information, including specific departmental reductions, can be viewed on the Town’s website at: https://www.templetonma.gov/1625/Proposition-25-Override-Info
Boudreau Interview 8-24-26 (8/24/2026)

CLICK on one of the infographics below for a larger image.

Nathan Boudreau Interview – A Campaign for 150 Write-in Votes

Listen to the entire interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Nathan Boudreau Interview 8-24-26

Candidate Nathan Boudreau is campaigning for a write-in vote in the Republican primary for the Second Worcester District state representative seat. Primary is September 1, 2026. Boudreau emphasizes his fifteen years of municipal experience, specifically highlighting his background as a town administrator and city councilor. Boudreau argues that the current state funding formulas for education and infrastructure unfairly disadvantage rural communities compared to urban centers. His platform focuses on increasing government transparency, ensuring affordability for taxpayers, and addressing the specific needs of Gardner, Templeton, Ashburnham, and Winchendon. Ultimately, he presents himself as a prepared leader capable of challenging the status quo on Beacon Hill to secure better resources for his constituents.
George Tyros 8-20-26 (8/20/2026)
Information from the Beehive – GeorgeTyros

Gardner City Council President George Tyros is making it convenient for anyone to sign up for his monthly newsletter and other updates. To sign up for the newsletter go to:https://from-the-presidents-desk-newsletter.beehiiv.com/

The August 20, 2026 report from the Gardner City Council President outlines a strategic shift toward enhanced fiscal transparency, rigorous project oversight, and streamlined administrative procedures. Central to this update are three key ordinances (11862, 11870, and 11884) designed to eliminate “budget surprises,” mandate documented justification for municipal travel, and enforce public and council review of major capital projects. Additionally, the Council has implemented a new meeting management structure to improve record-keeping and debate focus, while successfully finalizing several intermunicipal and personnel agreements during the July session. More detail in the infographics below.

The Tyros Protocol: To improve the efficiency of City Council proceedings, a new management protocol was established between the Council President and the City Clerk. The transition aims to clarify roles and ensure adherence to parliamentary rules:
- Role of the Clerk: The City Clerk is now responsible for reading agenda items, a change intended to facilitate better organization and more accurate record-keeping.
- Role of the President: The Council President focuses exclusively on managing the debate and ensuring following of the rules of order.
- Implementation: These changes were successfully piloted during the July session, marking a shift toward more disciplined legislative management.
Templeton PD Chief 8-17-26 (8/18/2026)

A special election is scheduled for September 22, 2026 in the Town of Templeton MA, the first step in approving the $1.38 million in funding to avoid disaster in Templeton.

Templeton Police Chief gets Overwhelming Applause at Meeting, but AUDIO of applause mysteriously muted in VIDEO

Listen to the exchange at the Templeton Select Board meeting of August 17, 2026 at which Templeton Police Chief Bennett explained how devastating immediate cuts to the Police and other Departments would be. We have left in the silence for accuracy. CLICK PLAY.

Templeton Select Board – Chief of PD exchange 8-17-26

When Chief Bennett concluded, the room burst into applause. For some reason, the techs recording the meeting muted that AUDIO. Proof of this action is shown in our graphic of the meeting AUDIO at left – why they did it, who knows. But to be accurate, residents at the meeting overwhelmingly did not want the Board to make immediate cuts and supported the Chief of PD. Selectman May indicated he was influenced by the public in the room and voted YES to the motion to make cuts only in October if an override on the issue fails. Vote was 3 to 2. To be clear: The failure of an override would wipe out vital Public Safety positions and would be devastating to the Town of Templeton.

The Proposed Override Details: Later in the meeting, a motion to go for a $1.38 million override was approved which would also restore the midnight shift for the Templeton PD – right now the only coverage overnight is the State Police. Our infographics show that the decision is about $438 for the average Templeton taxpayer, a little more than 1 dollar per day to avoid a public safety disaster in the community. Special election is scheduled for September 22^nd. Details in the infographics below. Click image for larger view.

Templeton 8-17-26 (8/17/2026)

Failure of the Override would lead to a disaster of Public Safety cuts as outlined above. CLICK IMAGE for larger view. Gardner Magazine will follow up to this article with the exact date and time once it is posted along with the exact language of the warrant.

Templeton Gets a Short-Term Stay on Disaster Pending Outcome of Override Vote

The Templeton Select Board on August 17, 2027 voted 3-2 to avoid immediate cuts after an impassioned speech by the Police Chief who warned that if officers are laid off now it would be hard to undue the damage. So with cuts off the table for now, the Select Board motion to proceed with an override occurred almost 2 hours into the meeting. Here’s just that 10 minute segment. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Override Motion – 8-17-26 Templeton Select Board

Members of the Templeton Select Board met to discuss and ultimately approve a $1.38 million tax override motion to address significant budgetary deficits. During the debate, some officials expressed concerns that the requested amount is a temporary fix that fails to cover long-term school funding demands, potentially leading to another fiscal crisis next year. Some members suggested that a larger override could have acted as a financial reserve to prevent repeated tax hikes, though others worried about the burden on taxpayers. The board also reviewed a grim list of service cuts that would take effect if the override fails, including the loss of police officers, firefighters, and highway department staff. Despite some reservations that the funding might be insufficient, the board voted unanimously to move the measure forward to prevent the collapse of essential municipal services.

The board reviewed a detailed list of cuts that will be implemented if the $1.38 million override is not approved by voters.

The proposed reductions would effectively dismantle several municipal departments. Public Safety Reductions:

Department	Specific Cuts	Remaining Staffing/Status
Police	2 resigned positions not backfilled; 4 additional officers eliminated.	Only the Chief and one officer would remain.
Fire	2 firefighters/paramedics cut; part-time administrative assistant eliminated.	Reduced emergency response capacity.
Dispatch	1 dispatch position eliminated (via retirement).	Reduced coverage.

Public Works and Infrastructure: The Department of Public Services (DPS) would face the most significant workforce reduction in terms of volume:

Staffing: Six employees across the Highway and Buildings & Grounds divisions would be eliminated.
Administration: The DPS administrative assistant position would be gone.
Seasonal Labor: All seasonal workers for Buildings & Grounds would be cut.
Outcome: The board noted that the town “wouldn’t have much of a department” left for highway or grounds maintenance.

Community and Library Services

Senior Center: The Community Services Director and the Senior Center Manager would see reduced hours. The part-time kitchen staff and two van dispatchers would be eliminated.
Library: Two library assistants would have their schedules reduced by one day per week.

Public Benefits for Non-Citizens (8/17/2026)
- Lawfully Present Immigrants: Includes three sub-types:
  
  Qualified Non-Citizens: Asylum seekers, refugees, Cuban/Haitian entrants, and Green Card holders (I-551) who have held their status for more than five years.
  
  Non-Qualified Individuals Lawfully Present: Holders of valid non-immigrant visas (e.g., B1/B2, J1, F1) or employment authorization (I-766).
  
  Qualified Non-Citizen Barred: Lawfully present individuals who may face specific federal restrictions on certain benefits.
- Non-Qualified PRUCOL: Individuals residing in the U.S. “under color of law” with the knowledge and consent of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or those who have applied for a valid status.
- Other Non-Citizens: Individuals who do not fall into the above categories, typically including undocumented immigrants.
Just What Are the Immigrant Rights in Massachusetts? Gardner Magazine Reports

Public Benefits Eligibility Varies Considerably Depending on Immigration Status.

Listen to this Deep Dive podcast explaining it all, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Immigrant Benefits in MA

DEBATE – Paradox of MA Immigrant Benefits

The infographic immediately below details Public Benefits for Massachusetts Residents. The 3 at the bottom focus specifically on non-citizens.

The landscape of public benefits for non-citizens in the United States is notoriously complex, often clouded by shifting federal regulations and widespread misinformation. For many of our neighbors in Massachusetts, this complexity creates a “chilled effect”—a phenomenon where families avoid essential services like healthcare or food assistance out of a deep-seated fear that seeking help might jeopardize their future immigration status.

In the Commonwealth, however, state-level protections and specific eligibility rules offer a more robust safety net than many realize.
Non-citizens residing in Massachusetts navigate a complex landscape of public benefit eligibility determined by their specific immigration status. While undocumented immigrants are legally excluded from most federal and state welfare programs—including SNAP, TAFDC, and standard MassHealth—they maintain access to critical state-level provisions such as emergency healthcare, K-12 education, and driver’s licenses. Conversely, “Lawfully Present Immigrants” and those with “PRUCOL” (Permanently Residing Under Color of Law) status have broader access to comprehensive health coverage and financial assistance.

A significant regulatory shift is scheduled for October 1, 2026, when new federal law will transition approximately 7,300 lawfully present immigrants from comprehensive Medicaid to more restricted coverage types. Crucially, as of March 2021, the use of most health and food benefits—excluding long-term institutional care and cash assistance—does not negatively impact “Public Charge” determinations for immigration status. CLICK any infographic image below for larger view.
Phillipston Chooses Kazinskas (8/15/2026)

Gardner City Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas to start administrative role in Phillipston

Beginning Monday August 24, 2026, Elizabeth Kazinskas will begin her job as Administrative Assistant to the Phillipston Select Board. For the past 6 years, Kazinskas has been working for State Representative Kimberly Ferguson, most recently as District Director. Ferguson had announced she was not seeking reelection this time around, so the Councilor has been looking for work.

It can be assumed that the Select Board of Hubbardston regrets its decision to pass on Kazinskas because the person offered the job ended up seeking employment elsewhere. Why Hubbardston did not choose Kazinskas remains a mystery.

Kazinskas has some municipal experience, having served as Acting Mayor of Gardner for 4 months in 2020 during the Covid pandemic and receiving statewide praise for her handling of City matters during the time. The incoming Phillipston Executive has served multiple terms as a Gardner City Councilor and Council President from 2021 to 2024.

Elizabeth Kazinskas will earn $1440 per week based on $40 per hour and a 36 hour week. Kazinskas has confirmed that she will remain serving on the Gardner City Council.
Nicholson Interview 8-14-26 (8/14/2026)

Various infographics are provided to further illustrate and expand upon the themes discussed during this August 14, 2026 interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Gardner’s “Success Architect” is running for State Representative of the 2nd Worcester District.

Municipal Leadership and Regional Strategy Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Gardner Magazine had the distinct privilege of speaking with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on August 14, 2026 for this interview showcasing key insights, policy positions, and municipal achievements. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson 8-14-26 – Municipal Leadership and Regional Strategy

In this interview, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson discusses his record of municipal leadership and his vision for the 2nd Worcester District as he runs for state representative. He highlights his administration’s success in securing state grants and managing complex infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a new elementary school and various downtown revitalization efforts. Addressing regional challenges, Nicholson emphasizes the impact of systemic rising costs on municipal budgets and the importance of professional grant writing to boost local revenue. He also clarifies local controversies regarding property redevelopment and environmental safety, specifically addressing the remediation of historical sites. Throughout the conversation, Nicholson maintains that his technical experience in city management will allow him to better advocate for the district’s communities in the state legislature. He concludes by reiterating his commitment to maintaining essential services while pursuing long-term economic growth through collaborative regional planning.

Gardner Magazine has frequently characterized the City of Gardner as the “Model City for America.” Under Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson’s tenure with the cooperation of the Gardner City Council, it is our position that the “Model City for America moniker has been earned. These infographics illustrate various aspects of the Mayor’s positions, policies, achievements, and models for success.

Gardner Model – Strategic Playbook

Strategic Policy Recommendation

City Budget Blueprint

Municipal Leadership and Regional Strategy

Grass Seed Paradox

Journal of Municipal Transformation

Gardner Magazine Video: The Discretionary Illusion. This video explains how difficult it is for municipalities to make ends meet when money is short as such a high percentage of the monthly expenses are mandatory. While there can always be some waste, a large amount of waste is almost mathematically impossible.
Water and Sewer Bill Update (8/11/2026)

For City of Gardner contact information, please visit this page, CLICK HERE.

City of Gardner Working to Address Water – Sewer Billing Concerns

The City of Gardner MA released an update on August 11, 2026 regarding water and sewer utility bills:

“Water & Sewer Billing Update

The Water Department would like to address concerns that have recently been raised regarding water and sewer utility bills.

Over the past several weeks, our office has identified billing calculation errors affecting some customer accounts. We understand that receiving an unexpected or inaccurate bill can be frustrating, and we appreciate the patience and understanding of residents who have contacted us while we work to resolve these issues.

After reviewing our billing processes, it became clear that certain billing calculations and account adjustments were not consistently completed in accordance with City procedures. As a result, some accounts may have been billed incorrectly. We are addressing these issues as they are brought to our attention and are working to correct affected accounts and issue revised invoices when necessary.

Since these issues were identified, the City has taken immediate steps to strengthen the billing process. These measures include implementing additional review procedures, verifying account calculations before bills are issued, and conducting a thorough review of affected accounts to ensure billing accuracy moving forward.

There has also been a staffing change within the billing office. The City is working to strengthen oversight and accountability within the department. We have conducted interviews for a candidate to lead the billing department and anticipate filling the position within the next week.

If an error is identified on an account, we will work diligently with the customer to review the account, explain the billing, and make any necessary corrections. If our review determines that a customer has been overcharged, the appropriate credit or adjustment will be applied to the account. Likewise, if we identify a discrepancy that requires clarification, we will work directly with the affected customer to explain the account and answer any questions.

We take these concerns seriously and are committed to ensuring that residents receive accurate bills and responsive customer service. The City is committed to increasing accountability, strengthening internal review procedures, and providing accurate, transparent, and dependable service to our residents.

We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we work to correct these issues and improve our billing processes”
School Budget 8-3-26 (8/4/2026)

Templeton – Phillipston MA School Budget Approval

The Narragansett Regional School District Budget was approved by a margin of just 10 votes (277-267) at a special meeting on August 3, 2026. Now, Templeton leaders are faced with additional cuts to the rest of the municipal budget which will impact some essential services.

The Templeton Select Board recently wrote: “additional $1,100,484 in cuts that would be needed would affect Police, Fire, the Senior Center, the Library, DPW, Building & Grounds, Development Services, and Town Hall. More cuts mean fewer resources to keep Templeton safe, clean, and thriving.” Now that the School Budget has passed, the Select Board will need to discuss next steps.

Gardner Magazine will keep you informed as this issue progresses.
City Council 8-3-26 (8/3/2026)
Publisher’s Note: The big topic at the beginning of this City Council meeting revolved around meeting minutes and how difficult it was to keep up with them. Gardner Magazine used one of its subscription tools and rendered official meeting minutes within about an hour of the meeting. We have sent them to the City Council President and the City Clerk. Here’s a copy for you, our readers on PDF, CLICK HERE. While the output of a tool would need to be reviewed for accuracy, meeting minutes can easily be rendered and provided to the public within minutes of a meeting.

The two infographics below provide additional details on the particulars of this Gardner City Council meeting of August 3, 2026.
Lengthy Gardner City Council Meeting Approves a Number of Items

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner City Council 8-3-26

The Gardner City Council meeting on August 3, 2026, focused heavily on administrative corrections, financial transparency reforms, and the reallocation of funds for critical infrastructure safety. A primary focus was the remediation of a significant backlog in meeting minutes, with over 50 sets of records reviewed and corrected. The Council also advanced ordinances aimed at increasing oversight of professional development spending and long-term financial planning. Significant updates were provided regarding the asbestos abatement at the Waterford Street Community Center and the progress of major economic development projects, including the Southside/Rear Main Street and the Greenwood Memorial Pavilion.

Significant focus was placed on safety and renovation at the Waterford Community Center.
- Asbestos Abatement: The Council approved the reappropriation of bond proceeds for asbestos abatement in the two-story wing and the senior center area.
- Infrastructure Improvements: A new water line will be installed to support a future fire sprinkler system.
- Oversight: The Council approved funding for an Owners Project Manager (OPM) to provide an independent appraisal of the project.
- Safety Assurance: The Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) conducted a walkthrough and confirmed the building remains safe for current occupants during the planning phase.
Key Quotes

“The best practice is to take up minutes in order at the next sitting of the body… and to have the minutes approved and posted within 30 days of the meeting taking place. We need to hold to the standard and we will hold to the standard going forward.” — Council President George Tyros

“I don’t think it’s a great outcome when an issue like this has to remain unresolved long enough to require formal council action before it’s been corrected… we have a job as city councilors and we do provide oversight.” — Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas regarding city code compliance

“We need to start treating the operation of city hall much more like the 85 plus million a year business it is… which means implementing more processes like this ordinance which will force more planning and forward thinking.” — Councilor Brad Heglin regarding financial transparency

“Hope is not a strategy. We have to have a plan. Leaders have to have a plan.” — Councilor Paul Tassone regarding departmental leadership
Building Permit Flow (8/1/2026)

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Responds to City Council Request for Information on Building Permit Process Flow

At a June Gardner City Council meeting, the Council voted to ask the Mayor for more information on a Building Permit workflow issue which temporarily took the Assessors Office out of the loop. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson issued this response to the Council, CLICK HERE.

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the issue. CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – How Software Settings Overrode Law

Max and Maxine Rogers debate the issue. CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – the Flow Debaucle

An internal review revealed that the building permit workflow was improperly modified in early 2026 to bypass mandated financial vetting processes. While these changes were intended to expedite permit issuance, they violated the City Code requirement that all permit applicants be in “good standing” regarding local taxes and fees.

The City has since identified the specific points of failure—including unauthorized manual workflow changes and software glitches within the OpenGov system—and is currently implementing a comprehensive correction plan. This plan involves manual updates to individual permit workflows, specialized staff training, and a reinstatement of the “Certificate of Good Standing” as a non-negotiable step in the permitting process.
Templeton – Phillipston (7/29/2026)

GRAPHIC SOURCE – Templeton Select Board Facebook post

Special District-Wide Meeting August 3^rd in Templeton

The Narragansett Regional School District is holding a special district-wide meeting on Monday August 3^rd at 6pm to be held at the Narragansett Middle School Safka Auditorium at 460 Baldwinville Road in Baldwinville. The doors will open 1 hour earlier at 5pm for voter check-in.

Up for consideration is the nearly 27 million dollar NRSD Budget. The Templeton Select Board put out this graphic communication stating that if the higher dollar amount requested by the School District passes, more cuts will be needed. The Select Board states that the additional $1,100,484 in cuts that would be needed would affect Police, Fire, the Senior Center, the Library, DPW, Building & Grounds, Development Services, and Town Hall. “More cuts mean fewer resources to keep Templeton safe, clean, and thriving.” The Templeton Select Board wrote that the information reflects the Town’s current budget projections.
Westminster – August 2026 (7/29/2026)

Westminster MA Releases South Street Sentinel for August 2026

The month of August 2026 in Westminster is defined by significant community-led initiatives, municipal legislative challenges, and high-profile public events. The primary focus is the 39th Annual Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN) Town Benefit Day on August 9, which serves as the town’s largest non-profit fundraiser. A central highlight of this event is the inauguration of the Nancy Green Award for Outstanding Citizenship, to be presented to long-time volunteer Dan McCarthy. View the entire South Street Sentinel Newsletter, CLICK HERE.

Concurrently, the town faces a critical legislative juncture with a Special Town Meeting on August 4, triggered by a citizen’s petition regarding the Crocker Pond Recreation Area. This petition faces unanimous opposition from several key municipal boards. Administratively, the town continues to manage infrastructure projects—notably the Theodore Drive warehouse—and fiscal responsibilities, with first-quarter tax bills due early in the month.
Weekly Briefing 7-26-26 (7/26/2026)
JUMP TO SECTION: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week

Gardner Magazine Weekly Briefing for July 26, 2026

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady go over the week in this podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Weekly Briefing 7-26-26

The final week of July 2026 represents a period of significant volatility and transformative policy shifts across local, state, national, and international scales.

In Greater Gardner and North Central Massachusetts, the region is grappling with a dual-edged healthcare landscape marked by massive layoffs at UMass Memorial Health alongside innovative childcare support for frontline workers. Simultaneously, the city of Gardner faces critical infrastructure and environmental challenges, including regional water quality questions and asbestos discovery at the Waterford Community Center. More from North Central MA This Week, CLICK HERE.

At the state level, Massachusetts is advancing radical legislative reforms, most notably a move by the Senate to effectively end traditional single-family zoning to combat the housing crisis. This occurs as the administration seeks to protect patients by decoupling medical debt from credit reporting, even as health insurance premiums continue to rise. More from the MA News Roundup this week CLICK HERE.

Nationally and globally, the period is defined by escalating military hostilities and economic protectionism. The United States has engaged in a sustained kinetic campaign against Iranian assets, contributing to global oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel. Domestically, the U.S. has implemented a new, aggressive multi-tiered tariff structure targeting 60 nations. These geopolitical tensions are mirrored by environmental and biological crises, including a record-breaking heat dome in the U.S. and a major Ebola surge in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. More in the complete National News This Week Report, CLICK HERE. —- More in the World News This Week Report, CLICK HERE.

Some of the Top Local Issues This Week included: (Scroll down our home page for detailed stories on these and other stories and articles)
- Gardner Water Quality: Residents reported widespread odor and taste issues in the water supply. Officials cited high temperatures and drought affecting open reservoirs. Mitigation includes treatment additives and supplementing the system with 1 million gallons daily from the Snake Pond Well.
- Asbestos Abatement: Asbestos was identified in the floor and ceiling tiles of the Waterford Community Center. Mayor Michael Nicholson has requested funds from an existing $8 million municipal bond for immediate abatement.
- Environmental Risks: A Level 2 Significant Drought has increased fire risks, exemplified by deep-ground flare-ups near Lake Wampanoag. In Ashburnham, the Whitney Pond Dam was successfully removed to restore natural water flow and ecological health.
For more detail, Gardner Magazine has 4 separate additional sections covering North Central MA News, a Massachusetts News Roundup, U.S. National News, and World News, all updated on July 26, 2026. JUMP TO SECTION: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week
Town Crier Episode 30 (7/20/2026)

Westminster Community Events and Details on Upcoming Special Town Meeting

Listen to the Town Crier Podcast Episode 30 with Westminster Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Westminster MA – Town Crier Episode 30

The Special Town Meeting of August 4, 2026 (6:30pm at the Westminster Elementary School) was triggered by a citizens petition. The petition seeks to transfer approximately 10 acres of the Crocker Pond Recreation Area back to private ownership for $1, citing an unfulfilled 20-year-old agreement regarding an access road. However, municipal leadership—including the Select Board, the Advisory Board, and the Crocker Pond Recreation Committee—has voiced unanimous opposition to the proposal. Their stance is based on the lack of legal obligation to return the land, the significant public investment made in the property, and the high value of the parcel as a contiguous public recreational resource.

While most of the podcast addresses the Special Town Meeting and the history behind the land in question, Stephanie Lahtinen also covers various community events. including the Neighbors Helping Neighbors benefit, a town takeover at a WooSox game, and the return of the “singing trooper.” More details are provided in the infographics below. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.
Hotline Radio 7-18-26 (7/18/2026)

Updates, Scams, Citizens’ Petitions, and Election Integrity Topics on WGAW Hotline Radio

Listen to the July 18, 2026 complete broadcast of the WGAW Hotline Radio show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

WGAW Hotline Radio 7-18-26

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about the Junior Police Academy, the Farmer’s Market, updates regarding the Waterford Community Center, a weather delay of the Monument Park Concert to Sunday, citizens serving on local Boards and Committees, jobs available with the City of Gardner, and the 115th anniversary of Stasukelis Appliance.

Werner Poegel provided an extensive commentary on various scams and how to avoid them.

In Town Crier Episode 30, Westminster Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen covered various administrative updates and explained the reason for an upcoming special town meeting on August 4th.

Hotline Radio played the entire July 16th speech of President Donald Trump.
Election Integrity – Trump – Mullin (7/17/2026)

President Donald Trump Speech to Nation on 7-16-26

DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin

President Donald Trump Gives Speech on Election Integrity – DHS Director Follows Up

On July 16, 2026, President Donald Trump gave a speech from the White House in which he identified substantial issues with U.S. elections and urged the Justice Department to prosecute any individuals responsible for illegal activity and called for Congress to pass the Save America Act. Listen to the speech on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Presidential Address – Donald Trump 7-16-26

The Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin followed up July 17,2027 with a briefing on election security. Listen to the briefing on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Mullin – Election Security – 7-17-26

President Donald Trump highlighted a period of unprecedented national prosperity, citing record-breaking economic growth, plummeting crime rates, and a restored global reputation. Despite these reported successes, the speech shifts to a dire warning regarding the vulnerability of American elections to foreign interference and internal corruption. President Trump announces the declassification of intelligence alleging that China compromised millions of voter files while “deep state” actors suppressed this information. To address these threats, the administration presents evidence of digital voting machine flaws and instances of local voter fraud as justification for immediate reform. The address concludes by urging the passage of the Save America Act, which mandates photo identification and proof of citizenship to ensure future electoral integrity. Additional infographic below.

Secretary of Homeland Security Mullin outlines a rigorous federal initiative to secure American elections by addressing alleged vulnerabilities in voter rolls and machinery. Mullin highlights the SAVE program, a collaborative effort with states to identify and remove ineligible voters, including noncitizens and deceased individuals. The Secretary expresses frustration with non-participating states and judicial pushback, warning that federal election funding will be withheld from those that refuse to implement these security enhancements. Beyond voter registration, the briefing addresses foreign interference from adversaries like Iran and criticizes prior administrations for allegedly withholding intelligence from the public. To ensure transparency, the Department plans to release a public infrastructure plan while pursuing criminal prosecution for those who attempt to vote illegally. Additional infographics below.
Changing Views in Gardner (7/10/2026)

Changing Views in Gardner – July 2026

The Rear Main Street Project is progressing with the parking lot to be paved in the near future, adding an extensive amount of parking for Downtown Gardner. Mount Wachusett Community College installed new emergency call boxes on campus. The Gardner Golf Course is green after recent irrigation efforts have paid off. The Levi Heywood Memorial Library had visitors from Plainview Farm which delighted area kids. An Ice Cream and Coffee Shop opened on Connors Street. – Coffee and Cream. A clothing, fashion, and gift shop opened on Main Street – Ropa Accessorios y Mas.

A couple is shown enjoying the seating and view of Crystal Lake

A view of the Majestic campus of Mount Wachusett Community College.
George Tyros – June Update (7/10/2026)

Gardner City Council President George Tyros Releases Update Covering End of Fiscal Year

On July 10, 2026, Gardner City Council President George Tyros released his end of June 2026 update. Below is the text of the update:

Third Time’s the Charm: FY2027 Budget is Set
This month, the City Council successfully passed the final budget orders for Fiscal Year 2027, navigating one of the toughest financial cycles Gardner has faced in years. Facing steep economic pressures and rising inflation, the Council worked tirelessly across multiple sessions, introducing a brand-new, transparent process that required counselors to submit budget amendment proposals well ahead of the final hearing.

The Council stood united behind maintaining critical services, and a proposed $1 million reduction to the school budget was ultimately voted down after much discussion. The body agreed that cutting school funding to manage temporary revenue projections posed too steep a risk to the school system, particularly because a shortfall could drop funding below required net school spending limits.

The legislative oversight paid off across multiple categories. The new budget process allowed the Mayor to adjust his budget after receiving feedback in the Committee of the Whole reviews and the Council held an organized and focused debate on submitted amendments. This resulted in successfully trimmed underutilized funding, including excess office supplies and Mass Municipal Association dues, allowing for reallocating resources into more critical municipal services. In total, Council feedback reduced spending by more than $2 million from the beginning of the process.

Good Projects Deserve Good Process: Building Confidence, Not Just Buildings
In a unanimous vote, the Council approved an appropriation to fund extensive enhancements to the Gardner High School C-Wing. Though the initial project approved last year was scoped strictly as a $2 million locker room replacement, it evolved during the design phase into a massive renovation encompassing upgraded team rooms, office spaces, public restrooms, and a reconfigured gym wing designed to extend the high school’s structural life for decades.

While the project itself is a vital investment for Gardner’s students and athletes, the lack of timely transparency from the executive office left the Council on an incredibly tight decision window, with very little time to evaluate the expansion.

Moving forward, the Council made it clear that “engineered timelines” that force votes at the eleventh hour must stop, demanding a holistic, collaborative approach to capital improvement planning between the administration, the City Council, and the School Committee.

June Wrapped Up

Holding Accountability: The Council officially launched a formal investigation under Section 25 of the City Charter following a sophisticated cyber fraud incident where an external scammer successfully diverted $40,000 in public funds. While the treasury acted swiftly to ensure the city will likely be made whole, a counselor will formally review cross-departmental vendor onboarding processes to eliminate internal vulnerabilities. Additionally, the Council invoked Section 25 to audit the Building Department following a recent discovery by the City Auditor that mandatory financial checks and assessor reviews were being bypassed on building permits.

Swearing in the New Clerk: Following a transparent and comprehensive search process that brought in 49 applicants, the Special Search Committee unanimously nominated Atty. Jennifer Pelavin to the office of City Clerk. In a unanimous 9-0 roll call vote, the Council officially elected and swore in Atty. Pelavin to a three-year term beginning July 6, 2026, ensuring a smooth transition for City Hall’s primary administrative artery.

Closing Out Fiscal Year Accounts: To ensure a clean slate before the June 30th deadline, the Council voted to approve essential end-of-year transfers. This included fully funding the snow and ice deficit with $573,186 from free cash, allocating $285,820 to police department overtime, and utilizing salary vacancies to clear $100,000 for emergency leachate pump repairs at the city’s closed solid waste landfill.

See you all next month!

George

Gardner’s Cheerleader (7/10/2026)

Analysis: Gardner’s Architect of Community Spirit – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Gardner’s Architect of Community Spirit: A Synthesis of Civic Engagement and Economic Growth

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

This is an analysis of the current state of community spirit and civic leadership in Gardner, Massachusetts, primarily through the lens of Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Since taking office in July 2020, Mayor Nicholson has adopted a “hands-on” executive approach, positioning himself as the city’s “biggest cheerleader.” An unprecedented six-year period of success characterized by aggressive economic revitalization, high visibility at community events, and a dedicated focus on saluting community leaders and organizations. This period of growth is rooted in a personal philosophy of “community spirit of caring” with a “people are policy” approach and a work ethic that extends well beyond standard expectations. The examples we use here are from the Mayor’s Facebook page in the last several months.

The Executive Leadership Model

The leadership style of Mayor Michael Nicholson is defined by high visibility and active participation across all sectors of city life. The Mayor’s approach is characterized by several key behavioral pillars:

Ubiquity and Presence: The Mayor is noted for attending a vast range of events, including business ribbon cuttings, non-profit occasions, and community celebrations.
Work Ethic: The Mayor is known to work long hours, described as “well beyond what would be expected” for the role.
Engagement Strategy: Mayor Michael Nicholson utilizes social media to highlight local businesses and community leaders, actively promoting the city as a “Model City for America.”

Economic Revitalization and Business Development

Gardner has experienced a significant influx of new business activity and infrastructure improvements. Recent highlights include:

New Business Openings and Milestones

Business/Entity	Description/Location
Coffee and Cream	Ice Cream and Coffee Shop; located on Connors Street at the former PYCA shop site.
Joy Market and Bakery	Opened in Union Square at the former Taylor Rental site.
Gardner Outlet Furniture	Recent ribbon cutting ceremony.
Airmid Vibrations	New business located at 33 Pleasant Street.
Gardner Municipal Golf Course	Recognized for its 90th Anniversary.

Infrastructure and Economic Engagement

Heywood Healthcare: Officially opened a new life-flight helipad, enhancing regional medical capabilities.
State-Level Collaboration: Massachusetts Secretary of Economic Development Eric Paley visited Gardner to highlight the local business community.
Gardner Farmers Market: Established as a successful monthly event at the site of the Waterford Community Center.

Community Events and Cultural Programming

The Mayor Highlights numerous events designed to foster community spirit, ranging from patriotic displays to cultural festivals.

Civic and Patriotic Events:
- Reading of the Declaration of Independence in Templeton.
- Illumination of City Hall in red, white, and blue for July 4th.
- Patriotic Sing-Along Concert at the Senior Center.
- Memorial Day Exercises and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Ride.
Arts and Culture:
- 241st Birthday celebration of the City of Gardner.
- Summer Concerts at Monument Park and Gardner Community Choir concerts.
- Promotion of local arts, such as The Addams Family play and the District-wide Student Art Show.
- Saint Mary and Saint Thomas Coptic Orthodox Festival.
Education and Youth:
- Summer Reading Kickoff at Levi Heywood Memorial Library.
- Gardner High School Reality Fair and the “last day of school” celebrations.
- Graduation ceremonies for Gardner High School, Gardner Academy and Monty Tech.

Public Service and Civic Recognition

A central theme in the administration’s strategy is the public recognition of community leaders, civil servants, and specific demographic groups.

Saluting Community Pillars

Public Safety: Welcoming new officers to the Gardner Police Department and saluting International Firefighters Day.
Seniors: Hosting the St. Patrick’s Day lunch at the Senior Center and recognizing residents at Heywood Wakefield Commons.
Education Professionals: Saluting the retirement of long-time music teacher Kathy MacKay.
Memorials: Honoring the memory of the late Gardner City Councilor Ronald F. Cormier.

Specialized Community Outreach

The Mayor has made efforts to recognize the diversity of the city, including salutes to Gardner’s Buddhist community and support for the “Light the Town Purple” event. His involvement extends to regional athletic events, such as participating in the Boston Marathon (26.2 miles) on a bicycle.

Origins of Leadership Philosophy

Traced to his own family: the Mayor’s “community spirit of caring” to his youth and familial influences. A significant symbolic touchstone is a “United We Stand” plaque created by his grandfather. This plaque was originally presented to the Mayor of Gardner during the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, representing a historical link between the current executive’s family and the city’s tradition of resilience and unity.

Conclusion

The evidence indicates that Gardner is currently in a state of high civic engagement driven by an executive who prioritizes visibility and the celebration of local achievements. By integrating business promotion, community events, and public service recognition, Mayor Michael Nicholson has fostered an environment which can only be described as an “unprecedented period of success” since the Mayor’s inauguration in 2020.

Board of Assessors 7-8-26 (7/9/2026)

Article and Commentary: Lessons in Precision from a Three Minute Board Meeting

Listen to the exciting Board of Assessors Meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Board of Assessors 7-8-26

While public attention is often captured by the high-drama debates of city councils or state legislatures, the foundational work of a municipality happens in much quieter, leaner settings. On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, the Gardner Board of Assessors convened at 11:00 a.m. for a meeting that lasted under three minutes. In a room occupied by only two people—a stark reminder of the lean efficiency often required in local administration—the board moved through a series of actions that underscored the meticulous nature of municipal finance and law.

This session was not merely a formality; it was a masterclass in how administrative precision ensures the city’s legal and financial machinery remains in perfect alignment.

The “Double-Check” Standard: Why Multiple Reports Matter

The meeting opened with the swift approval of the minutes from April 27, 2026, before transitioning into a review of the June 2026 motor vehicle abatements. To the uninitiated, signing off on tax abatements might seem like a clerical footnote. However, the board’s workflow reveals a sophisticated commitment to data integrity through redundancy.

The board reviewed multiple reports to ensure that the total abatement figures were consistent across all datasets. This process is not just for internal peace of mind; it is a critical intersection between the Assessors and the City Auditor. The board specifically noted that while multiple reports are run for verification, not every copy requires a signature—only the primary report destined for the Auditor’s office. This ensures a clean paper trail for the city’s financial oversight while maintaining a secondary “check” system to prevent clerical errors before they reach the general ledger.

“What’s great about having multiple reports you can run more than one and make sure your numbers [match].”

The Seasonal Pivot: Why ‘Involved’ Exemption Work Demands More Than Routine Scrutiny

Municipal governance is a cyclical endeavor, and this July meeting marked a clear transition point in the fiscal calendar. As the board finalized the routine motor vehicle abatements from the previous month, they prepared for the shift toward more complex territory: statutory exemptions.

While motor vehicle abatements are often high-volume and standardized, the upcoming focus on exemptions represents a more “involved” phase of work. For the board, this means a shift from data verification to the nuanced evaluation of individual applications. This seasonal pivot requires a higher level of scrutiny, as exemptions directly impact the city’s tax base and require strict adherence to eligibility criteria. The transition from the “routine” to the “involved” is where the expertise of the board is most tested, moving from broad oversight to the detailed vetting of personal and financial qualifications.

Behind Closed Doors: The Legal Weight of “Chapter Land”

As the clock neared 11:04 a.m., the board moved into an executive session, a transition that highlights the delicate balance between government transparency and the privacy of individual property data. Invoking the motion as stated—under Mass General Law Chapter 3A, section 21A7—the board shifted focus to a specific discussion regarding “Chapter land on Smith Street.”

From an analyst’s perspective, the mention of “Chapter land” refers to properties classified under MGL Chapters 61, 61A, or 61B. These laws provide tax incentives for land used for forestry, agriculture, or recreation. Because discussions regarding these classifications often involve sensitive financial data, usage commitments, and personal property details, the law mandates a move from open session to a private, legally protected session. By adjourning the open meeting to address the Smith Street property in executive session, the board demonstrated a disciplined adherence to the legal protocols that protect both the taxpayer’s privacy and the city’s statutory obligations.

The Efficiency of Oversight

The transition from the public review of abatements to the private scrutiny of land use was handled with the same brisk efficiency that defined the start of the meeting. By 11:04 a.m., the Gardner Board of Assessors had approved past minutes, verified the Auditor’s abatement reports, and moved into a legally mandated session for sensitive land classification.

This brevity is not a sign of a lack of depth; rather, it is the byproduct of prepared oversight. When the data is verified and the legal authorities are clearly understood, the machinery of government can move with surgical speed. It prompts a vital question for the modern citizen: How often do we consider the administrative precision and the quiet, three-minute increments of labor required to keep our own cities running smoothly? The most critical work of a municipality is often finalized not in the heat of a public forum, but in the focused silence of a room where the numbers must always match. Kudos to Assessor Christine Kumar and member Paulette Burns for their diligent work.
Town Crier – Episode 28 (7/1/2026)

Update on Municipal Affairs and Community Events in Westminster MA – Town Crier Episode 28

Listen to the episode on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Westminster Town Crier Episode 28

This episode of the Westminster Town Crier podcast, hosted by Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen, offers a comprehensive update on municipal affairs and community events in Westminster. The program features an interview with Select Board Chair Mike Cooley, focusing on “municipal myth-busting“ to clarify how local government functions under state and local laws. They discuss the separation of powers between various boards, the significance of town meetings, and ongoing local projects like the Adams Street 40B hearing.

In addition to governance, the podcast highlights numerous summer activities, including the opening of Crocker Pond, free outdoor yoga, and the weekly farmers market on Academy Hill. Public safety updates are provided regarding a commemorative police patch for the nation’s 250th anniversary and progress on a new public safety building. Finally, the host announces the upcoming launch of a dedicated Westminster mobile app designed to streamline communication and deliver tailored notifications to residents.
Weekly Briefing 6-28-26 (6/28/2026)

For a complete June 2026 Briefing on all 19 communities in the extended Greater Gardner MA area, CLICK for this SPECIAL June 2026 Briefing page.

Gardner Magazine Weekly Briefing for June 28, 2026

This week we have a total of 5 podcasts for the Weekly Briefing of June 28, 2026. The Weekly Briefing includes a podcast featuring all 19 Greater Gardner MA towns covered by Gardner Magazine, a podcast focusing on North Central Massachusetts including Gardner, Fitchburg, and Leominster, a briefing on Massachusetts News, a briefing on U.S. National News, and a briefing on World News. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE -19 Communities 6-28-26

DEEP DIVE – North Central MA 6-28-26

DEEP DIVE – Massachusetts News 6-28-26

DEEP DIVE – U.S. National News 6-28-26

DEEP DIVE – World News 6-28-26

Gardner Magazine has 4 separate additional sections covering North Central MA News, a Massachusetts News Roundup, U.S. National News, and World News, all updated on June 28, 2026, this week with some additional infographics

JUMP TO SECTION: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week
WGAW Hotline 6-27-26 (6/27/2026)

In one of the most impactful shows of the year, WGAW Hotline Radio covers local happenings and regional issues

On Saturday June 27, 2026, listeners to WGAW Hotline Radio were treated to a fast-paced program of consequential segments. Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

WGAW Hotline Radio 6-27-26

WGAW’s Hotline Radio provides a comprehensive update on municipal governance and community life in Gardner, Massachusetts. In an interview with Mayor Mike Nicholson, the program covers critical local issues including the passage of a balanced city budget, repairs to the Greenwood Pool, and construction updates for the Waterford Street School. The dialogue addresses broader regional challenges as well, such as the inflationary pressures impacting municipal services and the controversial cancellation of July 4th festivities in nearby Rutland. Further segments highlight upcoming public events like National Night Out and the food truck festival, emphasizing active civic engagement. Commentary is also provided on state-level politics, specifically regarding Haitian immigration status and the legal blocking of a proposed income tax reduction.

Segments on the WGAW Hotline Radio Show of June 27th included: Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, Steve Wendell Commentary on the blocking of the Income Tax Ballot Initiative, Werner Poegel’s Commentary on Facebook Fools and a Rogue Facebook Group, Mike Urban on Rutland canceling July 4th Fireworks, Interview with Gardner Prevention Coordinator Veronica Patty on the 13th Annual National Night Out taking place August 6th, commentary on the “temporary” protected status decision on Haitians by the U.S. Supreme Court, and M.L. Altobelli of the Good Earth Farm and Garden Center on Trees including lilacs and more… – View infographics below for even more details…
Zlotnik Interview 6-24-26 (6/24/2026)
Gardner Magazine spoke with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik on June 24, 2026. We discussed Zlotnik’s Legislative Legacy and his Future as he had announced back in April that he would not be seeking another term. During the interview, Zlotnik officially endorsed Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson for State Representative.

Complete Report on PDF, Jonathan Zlotnik’s Legislative Legacy and Transition, CLICK HERE.

Here is a Press Release from Governor Healey announcing the signing of the legislation discussed during this interview. CLICK FOR PDF.

Legislative Legacy and Future – Interview with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik

Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel interviewed State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik at our Route 101.3 Studios which yielded the pristine AUDIO. Listen to the interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Interview – Jonathan Zlotnik 6-24-26

Massachusetts State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik is retiring from his legislative role after fourteen years and will become the director of a graduate program at Clark University in a few short months. During his tenure, he prioritized the revitalization of his district by securing state infrastructure funding and establishing public-private partnerships to stimulate economic growth in less affluent areas.

Zlotnik has been instrumental in passing legislation related to Chapter 90 road funding and utilizing revenue from the “millionaire’s tax” to support universal school meals and local youth centers. Zlotnik also advocates for the repurposing of historic municipal buildings, such as the Waterford Community Center, rather than allowing them to fall into disrepair.

While he is transitioning to academia, he remains open to a future return to public service and has officially endorsed Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson as his successor. Ultimately, Zlotnik credits the recent progress in his region to a collaborative team effort among local leaders who prioritize community needs over personal recognition.

State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik is concluding a 14-year tenure in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, opting not to seek re-election after seven terms. Representing a district that encompasses Gardner, Templeton, Ashburnham, and Winchendon, Zlotnik’s career has been defined by a focus on “closing the gap” between local market realities and the cost of regional development through state-level intervention.

The primary takeaways of his legislative career include:
- Infrastructure and Economic Support: Securing tens of millions in state funding for essential local infrastructure (sewer, water, and roads) that these communities could not afford independently.
- Legislative Compromise: Negotiating a critical shift in the Chapter 90 funding formula to favor road miles over population density, significantly increasing aid for rural and less affluent districts.
- Adaptive Reuse: Championing the preservation and repurposing of historic “overbuilt” municipal buildings rather than costly demolition.
- Fiscal Responsibility: Overseeing local efforts to aggressively pay down unfunded pension liabilities ahead of state mandates.
Zlotnik will transition into academia as the Director of the Senior Leadership Program (MPA) at Clark University. He has formally endorsed Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson as his successor.

The following infographics further illustrate the various items from the interview.

Legislative Impact Report – Jonathan Zlotnik

5 Surprising Lessons from 14 Years in the Legislature

Legislative Advocacy and Transition – Jonathan Zlotnik

State Budget Items in the Recently Signed Bill
Building Commissioner Resigns (6/18/2026)

Building Commissioner Out – Position Posted

Gardner Building Commissioner Melissa McDonald has resigned effective June 26, 2026.

McDonald was criticized at the June 15th Gardner City Council meeting for a breakdown in process flow, but it is unknown whether this revelation by City Council President George Tyros or the discussion of the matter in an interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson were factors in McDonald’s decision to resign.

Nicholson did praise McDonald in the interview for her efforts in making the department more efficient.

The City of Gardner is now seeking a Building Commissioner. For details and to apply for the position, CLICK HERE.

If you are interested and qualified, please submit a letter of interest and resume to Amanda Morse, Human Resources Director, City of Gardner, 95 Pleasant Street, Rm. 226, Gardner, MA 01440 or via email to amorse@gardner-ma.gov. The City of Gardner is an AA/EEO employer and seeks diversity in its workforce.

Here’s some of what the Building Commissioner does:

Perform administrative and technical work connected with the interpretation, processing and enforcement of the Building Code and the Zoning Laws. —- Act on any question relative to the mode or manner of construction and materials to be used in the construction, alteration, repair, demolition, removal and maintenance of all buildings and structures within the City. —-Receive applications, review plans and specifications for construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, addition and demolition projects within the City to determine compliance with Massachusetts and City Codes, by ordinance and regulations relating to building, zoning, signs and architectural access; and in the issuance of building permits; calculate and collect fees, and the maintenance of associated records. — Perform field inspections of premises to verify that all work is being performed in accordance with the plans and all applicable codes and laws. —- Inspect buildings and alterations to buildings under construction and upon completion for conformance with structural requirements and approved plans. — Issue Certificates of Occupancy when required. —- Investigate complaints of alleged code violations and take appropriate action and issue necessary notices or orders to correct illegal or unsafe conditions, to require the necessary safeguards during constructions, to require adequate egress facilities in new construction and existing buildings and structures, and to insure compliance with all code requirements for the safety, health and general welfare of the public. —- Perform annual inspections of restaurants, liquor establishments, nursery schools, private schools, places of assembly and other facilities as required in conformance with statute, code and local ordinance. —- Oversee maintenance of City Hall buildings, which includes but is not limited to repairs, cleaning, opening and closing of facility, outdoor maintenance (i.e., lawn care, snow & ice removal) and order necessary equipment and supplies for said maintenance. —- Prepare department weekly payroll and provide record of employee attendance to Personnel Department. —- Employ and supervise, from time to time, such full-time or part-time assistance as may be required to accomplish the above duties, subject, however, to proper appropriations being made therefore. —- Supervise the Local Inspector, Electrical Inspector, Plumbing & Gas Inspector, clerical and building maintenance staff. —- Prepare and oversee department budget and any other necessary financial or department reports (i.e., Annual Report). —- Make recommendations to Mayor and/or City Council for license and permit fees. — Shall perform additional miscellaneous duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Mayor.
City of Gardner Jobs 6-15-26 (6/15/2026)

Here’s Another Chance to Work for the City of Gardner MA

Gardner Magazine is highlighting 2 job openings with the City of Gardner MA. Different skill sets. Different positions. Both excellent jobs. Details below.

Facilities Maintenance Manager- Coucil on Aging

The City of Gardner is seeking a skilled and experienced Facilities Maintenance Manager to join the Council on Aging team. This position is responsible for maintaining the safety, functionality, and appearance of the Council on Aging facility, with additional responsibilities supporting operations at Greenwood Pool. More details and to apply CLICK HERE.

Assistant Director Community Development and Planning

The City of Gardner is seeking an experienced and motivated professional to join the Department of Community Development and Planning. This position assists the Director in administering departmental programs and operations, with primary responsibility for managing the City’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Mini-Entitlement Program. More details and to apply, CLICK HERE

If you are interested and qualified, please submit a letter of interest and resume to Amanda Morse, Director of Human Resources, City of Gardner, 95 Pleasant Street, Rm. 226, Gardner, MA 01440 or via email to amorse@gardner-ma.gov The City of Gardner is an AA/EEO employer and seeks diversity in its workforce.
City Council 6-8-26 (6/9/2026)
Gardner City Council Meets Regarding Budget in Special Meeting

The Gardner MA City Council met on June 8, 2026 to consider the FY27 Budget. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 6-8-26 SPECIAL BUDGET MEETING

Gardner Magazine has prepared 2 additional infographics to illustrate the topics under consideration. Find them below. CLICK IMAGE for a larger view.

The primary takeaway is that while Gardner is currently in a “manageable” fiscal position, it faces significant regional pressure as neighboring municipalities hit “financial walls” characterized by multi-million dollar shortfalls and failed overrides. The proposed FY2027 budget is balanced based on conservative revenue projections, including a 2.5% property tax increase and a “96% rule” for local receipts to ensure a budgetary buffer.

Key points of discussion included the consolidation of professional development and travel funds into the Mayor’s unclassified account to improve tracking, the discovery of transposition errors in the original budget orders, and a debate over the chronic under-funding of the “snow and ice” account. The City Council remains under strict Massachusetts legal mandates, possessing the power to reduce or reject line items but lacking the authority to increase funding or salaries independently.

Council President George Tyros opened the meeting by clarifying the specific legal constraints placed on the City Council under Massachusetts law during the budget review process:
- Review Timeline: The Council has 45 days to review the Mayor’s proposal and must pass a final budget by June 30.
- The “Eraser” Power: The Council holds the legal authority to approve figures, reduce them, or reject line items entirely to protect tax dollars.
- Prohibitions: The Council cannot add money to the budget, create new projects, or raise salaries independently. If the Council believes a department requires more funding, it must formally vote to ask the Mayor to send down an increase.
- Committees of Oversight: Prior to the special meeting, standing committees (Public Safety, Public Service, and Finance) held preliminary hearings to drill down into specific department numbers.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson characterized the city’s financial status as “manageable” but warned against overconfidence. The administration’s goal is to avoid the “devastating cuts” being seen elsewhere in Central Massachusetts. Revenue Calculation Methodology – To maintain a “healthy zone” and live within means, the city utilizes the following projections:
- Property Taxes: A 2.5% increase in both real and personal property taxes.
- Motor Vehicle Excise: Projected as flat or with a minimal increase due to current economic conditions.
- Local Receipts: Calculated at 96% of the average of the previous four fiscal years. For example, while meals tax brought in approximately $525,000 last year, the budget uses a lower estimate (closer to high $400,000s) to create a buffer.
The Gardner City Council discussed the disparity between the $300,000 budgeted for “snow and ice” and the actual costs, which have exceeded $1 million in recent years.
- Legal Constraint: Under Massachusetts law, if a municipality increases the snow and ice budget line, it cannot be decreased in subsequent years.
- Current Strategy: The city utilizes “deficit spending” for snow and ice, which is permitted by general law, often covering the gap with free cash or supplemental reimbursements from the state.
Update: June 11, 2026 to Include Gardner Finance Committee Meeting of 6-9-26. That meeting occurred before the City Council meeting. Listen to the Meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 6-9-26

Local officials evaluated several long-term municipal strategies, including the Hazard Mitigation and Housing Production Plans, and the, surplus property study.

These initiatives, largely supported by state and federal grants, aim to strengthen the city’s infrastructure against natural disasters and address the regional housing crisis by identifying buildable city-owned lots – 7 were specifically identified. The committee also deliberated on intermunicipal agreements for animal control and the creation of a specialized safety coordinator role at the transfer station. Significant discussion focused on budgetary management, specifically regarding the transfer of funds to cover departmental deficits, vehicle maintenance, and the modernization of water meter systems. Furthermore, the members addressed salary adjustments for non-union employees and debated the appropriate compensation for a golf administrative assistant position.
George Tyros – Presidents Desk – 5-31-26 (5/31/2026)
This update from Gardner City Council President George Tyros focuses on the Water Enterprise Account, the School Budget, Reappropriation of unexpended bond proceeds, annual Downtown Flower Pot Program, City Clerk search, and well wishes for Councilor Karen Hardern who is suffering from a back issue.

May 2026 Update from Gardner City Council President George Tyros

Gardner City Council President George Tyros released the May 2026 “From the President’s Desk” on May 31, 2026. CLICK FOR PDF.

Finding a Better Flow: A Reasonable Rate
This month, the City Council tackled a difficult but necessary challenge: addressing a structural shortfall in our Water Enterprise Account. For many years, the city has used a staggered system, adjusting sewer rates for a five-year block and then switching to adjust water rates for the following five years. Because our water rates haven’t been adjusted since 2021, the fund has not kept pace with contractual changes, inflation, and essential maintenance, leaving the account projected to fall into a deficit during Fiscal Year 2027.

While the administration initially proposed a 20% increase starting July 1st, followed by an additional 40% over the next three years, the Council’s Finance Committee pushed for a more measured, yet still proactive alternative. The Council voted to approve a first printing of a counter-proposal, setting a 15% rate increase capped strictly for Fiscal Year 2027 alone to keep the enterprise fund in the black, while keeping the impact to residents to a minimum.

“Whether we’re talking about the ratepayers or the taxpayers, those are two pockets but part of the same pair of pants.” — Councillor Heglin

By limiting this adjustment to a single year rather than locking in a long-term annual hike, we are holding our municipal operations accountable. This temporary step avoids severe “sticker shock” for residents while preventing a deficit that would otherwise force painful cuts to our general fund services like police, fire, and public works.

Over the coming months, we will be working closely with Public Works Director Arnold to develop a clearer, long-term policy that ensures better ratepayer predictability and fiscal stability moving forward.

What’s the Number? Setting the School Budget Straight
On May 12th, the City Council held an informal meeting with Superintendent Dr. Pellegrino and School Business Manager Hawke to review the Fiscal Year 2027 school budget. While Gardner Public Schools have achieved remarkable educational outcomes in recent years—with Gardner High School significantly outperforming peer districts statewide in managing a high-needs student population—the end of federal pandemic relief funds (ESSER) and skyrocketing costs (including health insurance) have created a significant structural gap.

To meet this challenge, the school department implemented a major reorganization totaling $1.5 million in cuts, which includes shutting down Gardner Academy.

However, there is a remaining gap that highlights a broader conversation about how we plan as a city. While our local school funding has increased faster than any other sector of municipal government over the last five years, relying on one-time fixes or waiting until April to address budget shortfalls puts immense pressure on our systems. Going forward, the Council is advocating for structural, joint sessions between the City Council and the School Committee much earlier in the fiscal year.

By analyzing trends and fixed costs collaboratively in the fall, we can replace short-term scrambling with a sustainable, multi-year strategy.

Keeping Our Capital Working: Over $1 Million Reappropriated
In a unanimous vote, the Council approved the reappropriation of just over $1 million in unexpended bond proceeds to fund critical infrastructure and municipal adjustments. Because these funds are heavily restricted and tied directly to capital projects, this legislative move allows us to maximize existing city resources without adding any new burden to our taxpayers.

The funding package directly targets three key community areas:
- Gardner Middle School: Covering a significant bid variance to ensure the essential roof replacement stays on schedule.
- City Hall Entrance: Fixing it the right way, with structural upgrades to fill the bays underneath the main steps. This will prevent the previous long-standing water collection and prevent future foundation damage.
- Waterford Community Center: Funding the construction of concrete accessibility ramps and entryway sidewalks to make the facility fully navigable, for everyone.
Gardner in Bloom: Volunteers Step Up to Beautify Downtown
As we transition into the warmer months, May offered an incredible reminder of what makes Gardner a truly special place to live: our community volunteers.

We owe a massive thank you to the hundreds of residents and over a dozen organizations who rolled up their sleeves for the City Keep Gardner Beautiful cleanup event. A special shout-out goes to Diane LeBlanc, who has dedicated years to coordinating these cleanup efforts and keeping our neighborhoods beautiful.

Our community pride doesn’t stop there. The annual Downtown Flower Pot Program is officially underway. Volunteers will be gathered to plant 65 pots and seven large planters across our business district. Thank you to Councillor Mack for all of her efforts ensuring the success of this beautiful program!

May Wrapped Up

Clerk Search Underway: Following the announcement of our City Clerk’s upcoming departure in July, a Special Search Committee consisting of myself, Councillor Kazinskas, and Councillor Mack has officially formed. The Council has approved the updated job descriptions for both the City Clerk and Assistant City Clerk roles, and we are moving forward swiftly to ensure a smooth transition for this vital City Hall artery.

Wishing the Dean Well: Our longest-serving member, Dean of the Council, Councillor Hardern, is temporarily stepping back from her subcommittee assignments until September 1st to receive medical attention for a severe back issue. True to her 16-plus years of dedicated public service, she is actively keeping up with all municipal business from home. Please join the rest of the Council in wishing her a speedy and full recovery!

See you all next month!

from City Council President George Tyros 5-31-26

Mayor’s Update 5-29-26 (5/29/2026)

This end of May Update from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson covers various milestones, community growth, and a list of events which we are showing in a table below and also in the infographic. For more information at any time about the City of Gardner visit the official website at Gardner-MA.gov

Milestones – Community Growth – Community Events – Focus of an end of May Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update 5-29-26

The May 29, 2026, update from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson highlights a period of significant transition and high community activity. The report focuses on three primary pillars: the conclusion of the academic year through numerous graduation ceremonies, a burgeoning local economy characterized by culinary diversification and retail expansion, and a robust schedule of summer community events.

Key takeaways include:

Educational Milestones: A wide range of graduations, from elementary programs like DARE to higher education institutions, are being celebrated across the city.
Economic Growth: The city is seeing a shift toward a more diverse business landscape with the opening of international markets and the expansion of local furniture retail.
Community Engagement: A dense calendar of events—including the Relay for Life, farmers markets, and youth academies—aims to foster community connection and support local veterans and nonprofits.
Administrative Notices: Essential service updates include yard waste collection schedules and City Hall closures for the Juneteenth holiday.

Academic Milestones and Graduations

The city is currently in a “jam-packed” season of celebrating student achievements across various levels of education. Mayor Nicholson expressed gratitude to faculty, administration, and Gardner Educational Television (GET) for documenting these events for those unable to attend in person.

Recognized Institutions and Programs

Elementary: Fifth-grade students recently completed the DARE program, conducted by Officer Spain and Lieutenant Chisnowski of the community policing department.
Secondary and Vocational: Gardner High School, Gardner Academy, Monty Tech, and Holy Family Academy.
Higher Education and Early College: Fitchburg State University, Mount Wachusett Community College, and the Gateway and Pathway Early College Programs.

Economic Development and Business Openings

Gardner is experiencing a notable trend in diversifying its local cuisine and revitalizing vacant commercial spaces.

New and Expanding Businesses

Joy Market and Bakery: Located at the former Taylor Rental site on Union Square (near Pearson Boulevard), this Guatemalan market and restaurant officially opened on Memorial Day.
- Hours: 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday (Closed Sundays).
- Services: Full-service menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a small grocery market and baked goods.
Gardner Outlet Furniture: Held a grand reopening at Timpany Plaza in the former Big Lots site. The move has reportedly resulted in “skyrocketing” sales due to improved visibility and parking.
Future Prospects: The city is in conversations regarding a Brazilian market expected to open within the next 18 months, and Bria Coffee, which will feature Nicaraguan cuisine, is slated to open later this year.

Community Events and Summer Programming

The city has scheduled an extensive array of events to promote health, local agriculture, and veteran appreciation. Event Schedule and Details:

Event	Date(s)	Time	Location	Notes
Yoga in the Park	Mondays (June 1–Aug 31)	6:00 PM – 7:00 PM	Park Street Park	Donation-based; benefits local nonprofits. Bring own mat.
Kids Safety Day	Saturday, June 6	11:00 AM – 12:30 PM	Gardner Lodge of Elks	Free food and bicycle door prize.
Firefighters Memorial	Sunday, June 7	9:00 AM	N/A	Assembly for current/retired firefighters at 8:30 AM.
Relay for Life	June 12 – June 13	Starts 6:00 PM (Fri)	MWCC Track	One of the largest relays in the country.
Farmers Market	Saturday, June 20	9:30 AM – 1:00 PM	Waterford Community Center	Theme: “Berries and Bloom.”
Bandstand Concert	Saturday, June 20	6:00 PM – 8:00 PM	Monument Park	Featuring “True Diamond.” Bring chairs/blankets.
Library Reading Kickoff	Wednesday, June 24	4:00 PM	Levi Heywood Memorial Library	Summer reading program launch on front lawn.
Food Truck Festival	Saturday, July 11	12:00 PM – 8:00 PM	To be announced	Preliminary save-the-date.
Junior Police Academy	July 13 – July 18	Multi-day	Gardner Police Station	For ages 14–17; includes physical fitness and mock trials.
All-American Day	Sunday, July 19	11:00 AM – 4:00 PM	Fish and Gun Club	Free event for veterans and their families.

Youth Opportunities: Junior Police Academy

This free, interactive program for teenagers (ages 14–17) provides insight into local law enforcement. Curriculum highlights include:

Physical fitness training.
Mock traffic stops and investigative techniques.
Defensive tactics. Applications are available at the Gardner Police Station or via the department’s Facebook page. Space is limited.

Public Works and Administrative Notices

Yard Waste Collection: Pickup is scheduled for June 2 through June 5. Residents should put out yard waste on their regular trash day.
Juneteenth Observance: City Hall will be closed on Friday, June 19, in observance of the federal holiday.
Greenwood Pool: The facility is scheduled to open on the final day of the Gardner Public Schools academic year.
Municipal Budgeting: The Mayor and City Council are currently engaged in budget meetings to finalize the city’s financial planning.

Greater Gardner Relay for Life Contact Information

For information regarding the Greater Gardner Relay for Life, residents may contact regional organizer Gina Betetti at 267-817-7292 or via email at gina.betetti@cancer.org. General inquiries regarding city updates can be directed to the Mayor’s Office.

Greenwood Pavilion Electric Bids (5/28/2026)

Electric Bids Opened for Greenwood Pavilion Project – Vary Widely

On May 28, 2026, the City of Gardner held the formal bid opening for the electrical work on the Greenwood Pavilion construction project. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Greenwood Bids 5-28-26

The meeting specifically focused on reviewing electrical subcontracting proposals submitted by two different firms. Dagel Electric presented a significantly lower offer of $77,777, while Hub Electric Incorporated submitted a much higher bid of $196,000. Both companies formally acknowledged the project’s addendum, though one Hub Electric included a specific restriction against working with a particular general contractor.
Roadway Striping – Markers (5/27/2026)

Exciting Public Bid Opening for Roadway Striping and Pavement Markers.

The public bid opening lasted only 2 minutes with Gardner Purchasing Agent Joshua Cormier.. Listen on any device.

Bid Opening 5-27-26

The Public Bidding Session was held on May 27th by the City of Gardner, , regarding roadway striping and pavement markers. Three separate companies submitted formal proposals for the contract. The participants included Pro Finish Lines, Markings Incorporated, and K5 Corporation, with their respective bids ranging from roughly $41,000 to $46,000. All candidates provided the necessary legal documentation and financial bonds required for consideration by the local government. The session concluded with the assurance that a comparison of these figures would be published on the official city website for public review.
Templeton 5-18-26 Results (5/19/2026)
The High Price of “No” – Overrides Defeated in Templeton, Now the Pain Begins

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the results in this podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Templeton MA Results

On May 18, 2026 Templeton reached a fiscal crossroads that will redefine the community for years to come. Facing a staggering $3.5 million deficit, town officials presented residents with a stark choice: approve a tax override or dismantle the current standard of municipal service. The electorate delivered a stinging rebuke, effectively choosing the latter.

This result captures the quintessential tension of modern municipal governance—the “unstoppable force” of rising operational costs meeting the “immovable object” of voter resistance. While the residents have made their preference for lower taxes clear, the reality of a $0 solution to a multi-million dollar problem is about to set in. The town now enters a period of managed decline where every “No” vote has a concrete, service-level consequence.

The 23% Mandate: Who Decided the Town’s Future?

The most striking aspect of this fiscal pivot was the lack of participation. Despite the massive stakes of the Annual Town Election, only 1,518 out of 6,485 registered voters cast a ballot. This represents a turnout of just 23.41%, a remarkably low figure for a decision with such high-impact gravity.

It is a counter-intuitive reality of local democracy: a decision that will impact 100% of residents was determined by less than a quarter of the population. The margin of defeat suggests that voters weren’t just being frugal; they were sending a message of total non-intervention. This was particularly evident in the failure of the larger $4 million request, which faced even steeper opposition than the smaller measure.

Unofficial Vote Counts:
- Question 1A ($2 Million Override): 416 Yes | 1,094 No
- Question 1B ($4 Million Override): 284 Yes | 1,214 No
The Half-Capacity Safety Net: Fire and Police Cuts

Public safety is the core promise of municipal government, yet it is no longer shielded from Templeton’s fiscal contraction. The Fire and Police departments are facing immediate, severe operational restrictions that go beyond simple belt-tightening. These aren’t just budget lines; from a policy perspective, they represent a significant “deferred liability” for the town.

The Fire Department is being forced to slash maintenance and training funds by 50%. Cutting truck maintenance in half does not actually save money in the long run; rather, it increases the risk of catastrophic equipment failure during an emergency. Furthermore, the loss of police personnel and training funds signals a fundamental shift toward a reactive, rather than proactive, public safety model.

Specific Public Safety Losses:
- Police Personnel: Immediate elimination of two full-time personnel positions.
- Fire Department Maintenance: 50% reduction in funds for emergency vehicle upkeep.
- Operational Readiness: 50% cut to overtime coverage and fire academy training funds.
- Departmental Stagnation: A total hiring freeze on all new staff or personnel for Fiscal Year 2027.
The Hidden Price Tag: When “No” Means 65% Higher Fees

Voters often view a “No” vote as a way to protect their wallets, but in Templeton, this has triggered an immediate “user-end penalty.” To keep essential services operational without tax revenue, the Parks and Recreation department must implement a staggering 65% increase in program fees. This is essentially a “stealth tax” on families who utilize town services.

The quality of life in Templeton will also take a visible hit through a choice of “diminished capacity.” The town must now choose between eliminating the part-time administrative assistant who runs the Parks department or the seasonal grass cutter who maintains the fields. Regardless of the choice, the appearance and utility of public spaces will decline as the Highway and Building and Grounds departments lose four total employees.

Even civic transparency is on the chopping block. The Cable department will be restricted to only recording and posting town meetings, a significant blow to the “civic transparency” necessary for a healthy local democracy. When tax revenue is denied, the cost of participation spikes, and the visibility of government operations fades.

A Multi-Million Dollar Mathematical Gap

The math facing Templeton is unforgiving and absolute. The town required $3,537,803 to maintain its current trajectory; following the election, it was granted exactly $0. This gap is now being bridged through deep cuts that disproportionately impact the town’s youngest residents.

Of the total cuts, approximately $1,518,121 will be stripped from town operations, while $2,019,682 will be gutted from the school budget. This “future-at-risk” scenario means the school district must operate with two million dollars less than what is required for standard operations. The fact that the $4 million override failed by a wider margin than the $2 million measure proves that voters rejected even the idea of a “bridge-gap” compromise.

The Road Ahead for Templeton

As Templeton enters Fiscal Year 2027, it does so with a significantly reduced capacity to provide the basic services residents expect. From reduced police patrols and hazardous equipment maintenance to unmaintained parks and soaring recreation fees, the “price of no” will be felt in the daily lives of every citizen. This is no longer a theoretical debate about tax rates; it is a live experiment in municipal austerity.

Publisher’s Editorial Note: The outcome of this election leaves us with a difficult question: What is the true balance between tax sensitivity and the essential nature of municipal services? The “Templeton Deficit” serves as a stark signal for other small towns facing similar crossroads. It proves that when a budget gap remains unbridged, the resulting cuts are not just numbers on a ledger—they are a fundamental rollback of the community’s quality of life.

Election Results: Municipal Boards and Commissions
- Select Board: April Cover (958 votes) and Timothy Toth (795 votes) were elected to the two available seats.
- Board of Assessors: George Barnes, Jr. (1,148 votes).
- Board of Health: Cynthia Cadoret (1,102 votes).
- Cemetery Commission: Matthew McDonald (1,123 votes).
- Community Preservation Committee: John Henshaw (1,166 votes).
- Light & Water Commission: Dana Blais (1,137 votes).
- Sewer Commission: Mark Moschetti (1,001 votes).
- Housing Authority: Louise Chaffee (1,081 votes).
- Planning Board: Michael Caruso was elected to a 4-year unexpired term (1,032 votes).
- Moderator: John Graves (1,078 votes).
Election Results: Narragansett Regional School District (NRSD)
- NRSD-Templeton: Shawn Case (965 votes) and Yasmine Khdeer (778 votes) were elected to the two available seats.
- NRSD-Phillipston: Several unexpired terms and a full term saw no formal candidates, with votes distributed among write-ins and blanks.
Hubbardston Select Board Votes on Administrator (5/16/2026)
Listen to the meeting of May 15, 2026 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Hubbardston Select Board 5-15-26

If you wish to listen to the interviews with all 3 candidates, here is the meeting of May 11, 2026, ,CLICK PLAY.

Hubbardston Select Board 5-11-26
Hubbardston Select Board Chooses Alex MaGee for Town Administrator

At the Hubbardston Select Board meeting of May 15, 2026, The Board voted 3-1 to offer the position to Alex MaGee, (pictured) subject to contract negotiations and a comprehensive background check.

The Board rejected a prior motion for Gardner City Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas (1-3) who was one of the three final candidates from an original field of over 70 applicants.

Regarding Alex McGee, The Board highlighted his Master of Public Administration, his experience as a Finance Director (Hamilton), and his roles in larger municipalities like Andover, Arlington, and Lowell as positive factors in making the choice.

Negotiation Strategy:
- a conditional offer was sent via email immediately following the vote offering the position of Town Administrator to Alex McGee.
- The Board will use historical TA contracts as a template for negotiations.
- The Board rejected a proposal to have a subcommittee negotiate, opting instead for a full Board executive session to ensure transparency and consensus on salary (advertised range: $130,000–$150,000) and benefits.
Planning 5-12-26 (5/14/2026)
Master Plan Adopted by Planning Board After a Year of Work

The Gardner Planning Board officially voted to adopt a new Master Plan at the May 12, 2026 meeting, replacing the previous document dated from 1974/1975. The plan was facilitated by the Barrett Planning Group and funded by a grant from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. Development of the plan began in April 2025. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Planning Board 5-12-26

The Master Plan was developed utilizing staff – board – and committee interviews, community surveys, public workshops, drop- in events, and public comments. The Master Plan is centered on a 20-year vision for the City of Gardner emphasizing a sense of community in maintaining the existing social fabric, natural resources -protecting open spaces and recreation areas, affordable housing in addressing the need for diverse housing options, and balancing growth with preservation such as revitalizing the Downtown Gardner area and encouraging new business while protecting Gardner’s historical architecture and “sense of place.”

The Master Plan identifies several challenges and opportunities that transcend specific departments:
- Economic Transition: Acknowledging the loss of the industrial core and the need to replace “missing pieces of previous employment opportunities.”
- Demographic Shifts: Addressing an aging population and a decrease in new families moving to the area.
- Sustainability and Resilience: Integrating modern environmental standards into city planning.
- Outside Funding: A continued reliance on state and federal grants for project implementation.
Other meeting topics and actions: Officials approved a site plan for a new convenience store and gas station at 677 Timpany Boulevard, (Walmart) contingent upon specific environmental and drainage requirements. . Additionally, the board appointed a representative to a regional transportation committee and announced the upcoming review of a five-year housing production plan.
Westminster Update 5-9-26 (5/9/2026)

More details on the Town Crier Episodes 23, 24, and 25 plus the Westminster Town Meeting of May 2, 2026 are provided in the infographics below. CLICK on either image for a larger view.

Westminster Update: Town Meeting Results, Town Crier Episodes 23, 24, and 25.

Listen to the episodes starting with the latest episode 25 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Town Crier Episodes 25, 25, and 23

Westminster Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen covers Strategic Preparations, Governance, fiscal stewardship, municipal outcomes and summer operations during 3 episodes of the podcast “Town Crier”

On May 2, 2026, Westminster residents convened for the Annual and Special Town Meetings to chart a definitive fiscal and operational trajectory for the community. With the approval of a budget exceeding $30 million, the meeting served as more than a routine administrative gathering; it provided a roadmap for how the town will balance its deep-rooted local traditions with the pressing demands of modern infrastructure. These votes represent a calculated investment in the town’s future, prioritizing both human capital and technological modernization to sustain Westminster’s high quality of life.
Public Service 5-7-26 (5/7/2026)

Budget Discussions Dominate Public Service Committee Meeting

The Gardner Public Service Committee met on May 7, 2026 and spent a considerable amount of time discussing DPW and infrastructure. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Public Service 5-7-26

The focus was on preliminary FY2027 department budgets and infrastructure updates. Committee members discussed a proposed 20% water rate increase intended to fund emergency repairs and address long-deferred maintenance for the city’s aging water system. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson outlined his budgetary process, explaining the distinction between departmental “wish lists,” realistic operating needs, and mandated reduction scenarios. Significant dialogue centered on the Department of Public Works, specifically regarding the high costs of maintaining an aging vehicle fleet and the legal complexities of budgeting for snow and ice removal. Additionally, City Engineer Rob Oliva provided updates on federal environmental mandates related to storm water and the ongoing efforts to sell surplus municipal land to boost local tax revenue.
Upcoming Winchendon Town Meeting 2026 (5/5/2026)

A Discussion and Review of the Upcoming Winchendon Town Meeting May 18th

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the upcoming Winchendon Town Meeting to be held on May 18, 2026. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Discussion re Winchendon Upcoming Town Meeting

The Town of Winchendon’s Annual Town Meeting, scheduled for May 18, 2026, encompasses 29 articles addressing the fiscal year 2027 (FY27) budget, significant capital infrastructure projects, and administrative authorizations.

The primary financial highlights include a General Government operating budget of $20,770,350 and a School Department budget of $18,667,547. A critical focus of this warrant is the proposed replacement of roofs at three major educational facilities—Murdock Middle/High School, Memorial Elementary, and Toy Town Elementary—with a combined estimated cost exceeding $27.8 million, largely funded through debt exclusion and potential Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) grants which may pay for about 70 percent of the cost.

Other significant items include a $500,000 appropriation for a new ambulance, the utilization of Free Cash to address FY26 deficits (specifically $400,000 for snow and ice), and two citizen petitions aimed at tax reduction and stricter property-based code enforcement.
Model City – Global (5/4/2026)

Gardner’s Model City Distinction Going Global

It was only a matter of time when search engines across the globe would pick up on the City of Gardner’s “Model City for America” status. Gardner Magazine has previously outlined via the Fiscal6.com Project, CLICK HERE, the various strategic initiatives put forth by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and his team to excel in so many different areas to cumulatively achieve this distinction. We provide as evidence PDFs of searches on google, bing, and yahoo to show the national recognition of Gardner as the “Model City for America.” Going further we know that even the Russians recognize the achievement as demonstrated by the Yandex search attached. The only holdout right now is Baidu-China with over 1 billion people still in the dark about Gardner MA and its status.

The Evidence on PDF “What City is Recognized as the “Model City for America” in MA?

Google Search — Bing Search — Yahoo Search — Yandex Search (Russia) — Baidu Search (China)

Gardner Magazine’s congratulates the various Gardner teams which have contributed to this high honor (and we apologize in advance if we’ve left out anyone) The Mayor of Gardner Michael Nicholson for his outstanding leadership, the Gardner City Council for its insistence on transparency and excellence in Government, the Gardner DPW for being at the top of its game regarding water, sewer, and other infrastructure under its purview, Economic Development for its attention to buildings and land whether it be public or private, the Gardner Police Department which has helped to reduce crime by almost half through various initiatives smartly executed, and the Gardner Fire Department for proactively focusing on safety, and the Gardner Public Schools under the leadership of Dr. Mark Pellegrino for lifting each student up to their highest level of possible achievement through individual efforts like the Gardner Academy, English as a 2^nd language efforts for non-native speakers, and providing college opportunities for higher achievers. All the efforts of these municipal heroes have combined to create the scenario resulting in Gardner’s recognition globally as the “Model City for America.”
Weekly Briefing 5-3-26 (5/3/2026)

A Weekly Briefing from Gardner Magazine – May 3, 2026

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the news of the week including Greater Gardner MA, North Central MA, the State of Massachusetts, National News, and World News. They tie it all together in a great podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Weekly Briefing – The Chair Man and the Chair Lady 5-3-26

Gardner Magazine has 4 separate additional sections covering North Central MA News, a Massachusetts News Roundup, U.S. National News, and World News.

JUMP TO SECTION: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week

The 5 Most Surprising Shifts Shaping Our World: A Week in Review (May 3, 2026)

1. Introduction: The Complexity of Now

The global news cycle of early May 2026 has reached a state of dizzying fragmentation, yet beneath the surface, a singular narrative of institutional erosion and systemic volatility is beginning to coalesce. This week, the public consciousness was asked to bridge the impossible gap between the mundane and the existential: from Gardner’s localized “Pothole Patrols” to the high-stakes geopolitical brinkmanship of the War Powers Resolution in Washington and Tehran. While these events appear disconnected—a municipal budget deficit here, a historic horse race there, a grounded airline everywhere—they are, in fact, the jagged edges of a rapidly reconfiguring reality. To look closely at this week is to see a world where the 20th-century social contract is being rewritten in real-time, signaling a shift from a society of mass accessibility to one defined by an “operational cliff.”

2. The War That “Ended” (But Didn’t)

We are currently witnessing a profound legal fiction intended to mask a kinetic reality. President Trump has officially declared that hostilities with Iran have “terminated,” a calculated maneuver timed precisely to coincide with the 60-day deadline of the War Powers Resolution. This declaration seeks to bypass the necessity for formal Congressional authorization, even as the administration pushes for a multibillion-dollar Pentagon funding infusion.

The friction between this “terminated” status and the ground truth is stark. While the White House signals an end to the war period, the Senate remains paralyzed, recently rejecting a resolution to remove U.S. forces. The global ripple effects are already devastating: Qatari liquefied natural gas (LNG) production has been suspended following drone attacks, and the U.S. has greenlit $8.6 billion in emergency arms sales to Middle Eastern allies. Perhaps most telling of the fracturing Western alliance is the President’s suggestion to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany and potentially pull forces from Spain and Italy as punishment for their vocal criticism of the conflict. Amidst the administration’s claims of peace, the sentiment from Tehran remains chillingly pragmatic; as one senior Iranian officer noted, “Renewed fighting is likely.”

3. The Sudden Grounding of the “Ultra-Low-Cost” Dream

The era of cheap, accessible air travel—an anomaly of the 2010s and early 2020s—effectively died this week with the total cessation of operations by Spirit Airlines. The collapse followed a failed $500 million White House bailout, leaving travelers at Logan International and regional hubs in a state of logistical paralysis.

Spirit’s demise is a direct casualty of a global energy crisis that has pushed Massachusetts gas prices to a staggering $4.15 per gallon. This “global supply crunch,” exacerbated by the ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, has rendered the low-cost carrier model a relic of a bygone era. This is not merely a corporate failure; it is the re-stratification of class mobility. We are returning to a “pre-jet-set” era where travel is once again a marker of elite status rather than a middle-class expectation. The dream of the ultra-low-cost flight has been grounded by the hard reality of 2026’s energy economics.

4. A Landmark Verdict for the Digital Generation

In a decision that likely signals the twilight of tech platform immunity, a jury has awarded $6 million in damages against Meta and YouTube. This landmark verdict was not about content moderation, but about the fundamental architecture of the digital world. The case, brought by a 20-year-old plaintiff, successfully argued that “social-media addiction” among adolescents is the result of deliberate design choices rather than accidental byproducts.

By focusing on the “product” itself, the court has signaled that the era of Section 230 serving as a total shield for Silicon Valley is ending. This ruling suggests that tech giants will now be held to the same safety standards as manufacturers of physical goods. The “signal” here is clear: the digital frontier is being forcibly tamed, and the cost of doing business in the attention economy is about to skyrocket.

5. The History-Maker at the 152nd Kentucky Derby

The sports world provided a rare moment of historic progress this weekend, though it was framed by the shadows of a restless labor force. Golden Tempo’s 23-1 longshot victory at the Kentucky Derby was a masterclass in performance, but the true story was in the winner’s circle: Cherie DeVaux became the first woman in history to train a Derby winner.

However, this cultural milestone stands in jarring contrast to the “May Day Strong” protests rippling through the nation. As DeVaux celebrated, thousands of workers took to the streets to protest the increasing use of AI algorithms to dictate unstable schedules for hourly employees—a technological grievance that is becoming the new front line of labor rights. This juxtaposition reveals the duality of 2026: pockets of historic individual achievement occurring against a backdrop of widespread institutional instability and a workforce increasingly at odds with the very technology supposed to optimize their lives.

6. The Invisible Crisis: The Healthcare “Operational Cliff”

While the headlines are dominated by drone strikes and airline collapses, the most impactful shift for the average citizen is the quiet transition of healthcare from a service to a luxury. In Gardner, Massachusetts, the school system is navigating a $1.5 million deficit—a crisis driven almost entirely by a 12.5% spike in health insurance costs. To balance the books, the city is now forced to consider significant staff reductions, a move that sacrifices the future of education to pay for the present costs of survival.

This local struggle mirrors a national “operational cliff” where insurance costs have doubled for those without subsidies, leading to a 26% drop in enrollment among those in their 50s and early 60s. There is a bitter irony in the math: while towns like Templeton face a $4 million override to keep their libraries and senior centers from shuttering, the nation approves $8.6 billion for emergency arms sales. The economic oxygen is being sucked out of our local infrastructure to fuel global kinetic energy, leaving communities to decide between fixing a pothole or funding a teacher’s health plan.

7. Conclusion: The View from the 2,000th Day

Recently, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson marked his 2,000th day in office, a milestone Gardner Magazine has used to champion the “Model City” status of his administration. Yet, just a few miles away, the “operational cliff” remains a literal threat to the survival of municipal services. The contrast is sharp: we are creating islands of stability within a sea of crumbling infrastructure.

As we look at the world through the lens of May 2026, we must ask if the “Model City” is a sustainable future or merely a temporary fortress. The events of this week—the legal maneuvers to extend war, the grounding of mass travel, and the prioritization of arms over insurance—suggest we are not in a temporary crisis. Instead, we are witnessing a permanent restructuring of society. The “new normal” is not coming; it is already here, and it is defined by a world where the 20th-century luxuries of mobility and security are being repossessed by the realities of a volatile new age.

Werner Poegel, Publisher

Struggles and Solutions: Templeton and Winchendon (5/1/2026)

Templeton and Winchendon fiscal year 2027

The Tale of Two Overrides – The Challenges of Templeton MA and Winchendon MA – Complete Analysis

Residents in Templeton and Winchendon are currently navigating critical financial decisions to sustain municipal operations and infrastructure. Max and Maxine Rogers debate the options. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE: Templeton – Winchendon FY27 Options

Templeton voters are facing a multi-million dollar override proposal to bridge a significant budget deficit and prevent the closure of essential public facilities like the library and senior center. Failure to approve this funding would result in extensive layoffs and deep cuts to both public safety and local education.

Winchendon is seeking public approval for debt exclusions specifically designed to finance major school building repairs, with a substantial portion of the costs covered by state aid. These fiscal measures reflect a broader regional challenge of balancing tax increases against the preservation of vital community services.

A Tale of Two Fiscal Paths: Comparative Analysis of Proposition 2½ Strategies in Templeton and Winchendon, MA

In the increasingly constrained fiscal environment of North Central Massachusetts, municipal leaders are no longer viewing Proposition 2½ ballot measures as discretionary options for growth; rather, they have become essential mechanisms for stabilizing the levy base and ensuring municipal survival. For towns like Templeton and Winchendon, these measures represent the thin line between operational continuity and the total cessation of non-mandated services. Entering Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27), these two neighboring communities find themselves at divergent stages of the municipal fiscal lifecycle. While one town is embroiled in an acute struggle to mitigate a structural deficit and maintain essential personnel, the other has leveraged past stabilization to pivot toward long-term capital asset management.

This “tale of two overrides” illustrates a fundamental shift in strategy: Templeton is currently fighting an immediate operational crisis to prevent a systemic collapse of town departments, while Winchendon has transitioned toward infrastructure investment. To understand the strategic logic behind these two paths, one must first analyze the immediate operational emergency unfolding in Templeton.

Templeton’s FY27 Strategy: Maintaining Essential Services

Templeton’s FY27 Operational Crisis: Maintaining Essential Services: Templeton’s proposed $4 million operational override represents a critical juncture for the town’s operational integrity. Unlike a debt exclusion, this override constitutes a permanent increase in the tax levy, reflecting a necessary but significant adjustment to the town’s baseline funding. Faced with the rising costs of municipal management—which have contributed to a total budget spike of over $5.2 million compared to the previous year—the town is at a point where it can no longer fund its basic organizational structure within existing constraints.

Analysis of the Deficit and Proposed Solutions: The town’s financial requirements for FY27 are defined by a substantial gap between projected revenues and the cost of maintaining current service levels. It is critical to note that the proposed $26,665,898 budget already incorporates the assumed success of the $4 million override; without it, the town has no legal path to fund this spending level.

The Precise Deficit: Templeton faces a deficit of $3,537,803 required to balance the proposed $26.6 million FY27 budget.
The Primary Strategy ($4 Million): This proposal is designed to close the $3.53 million gap entirely, providing a necessary buffer to preserve current service levels and keep departments functional amidst rising inflation and management costs.
The Contingency Option ($2 Million): A smaller override is being considered as a secondary measure. However, from a strategic standpoint, this is a half-measure that would only partially mitigate the deficit, still requiring substantial reductions in force and service delivery.

Consequences of a Failed Override: The Operational Cliff: A failed vote on May 18, 2026, would trigger an immediate transition to an austerity budget. The town has projected specific, devastating repercussions for the community’s quality of life and public safety:

Workforce Reduction: The override is required to preserve the jobs of over a dozen town employees, including two full-time police officers and two full-time firefighters.
Shuttering of Community Hubs: The town library and the senior center would be closed entirely, representing a total cessation of non-mandated community services.
Departmental Austerity: Major budget cuts would be mandated across every town department, hampering the town’s basic administrative functionality.

Impact on the Regional School District: The school system remains a primary casualty in a failed override scenario. Templeton would be forced to implement a $1.3 million cut to the Templeton Narragansett Regional School District budget. Such a reduction would likely lead to increased class sizes and the elimination of programs, threatening the long-term educational standards and property values of the community.

Winchendon’s FY27 Strategy: From Operational Survival to Infrastructure Investment

Winchendon enters FY27 in a markedly more stable strategic position. Having navigated its own “fiscal cliff” in the previous cycle, the town has transitioned from day-to-day survival to the proactive management of its physical assets.

Review the FY26 Precedent: The flexibility currently enjoyed by Winchendon is a direct result of the nearly 2 million operational override (1.9 million) approved by voters on May 19, 2025. This contentious but successful vote was a necessary prerequisite for current stability; it protected the library, the senior center, and the Parks Department from closure while stabilizing school staffing. Having already adjusted its levy base to meet operational realities, Winchendon is now positioned to focus on capital needs.

Analysis of the Debt Exclusion Proposals: For FY27, Winchendon is utilizing debt exclusions rather than an operational override. Technically, these are temporary tax increases that expire once the specific project debt is retired, making them a more targeted fiscal tool for capital repair.

Category	Details
Project Need	Essential infrastructure repairs for the town’s three school buildings.
State Funding Share	Over 77% of total project costs expected from state aid.
Long-term Tax Impact	Approximately 3.77% property tax increase for a 20-year duration.

Assessing the Strategic Advantage: The strategic imperative behind these debt exclusions is the concept of capturing value. By securing a 77% state reimbursement rate, Winchendon is leveraging external funding to address long-term structural needs at a fraction of the cost to local taxpayers. This is a classic exercise in intergenerational equity: by repairing schools now with a high state match, the town prevents the astronomical costs that would arise if the buildings were allowed to fail, which would likely require 100% local funding in the future.

Comparative Analysis: Operational Overrides vs. Debt Exclusions: The differing paths taken by Templeton and Winchendon represent two distinct stages of municipal fiscal evolution under the constraints of Proposition 2½.

Differentiating the Objectives between Templeton and Winchendon

Category	Templeton (FY27)	Winchendon (FY27)
Primary Fiscal Tool	Operational Override (Permanent)	Debt Exclusions (Temporary)
Core Objective	Operational Survival	Capital/Infrastructure Repair
Immediate Personnel Impact	High Risk (Over a dozen jobs at stake)	Low Risk (Staffing stabilized in FY26)
Long-term Infrastructure Focus	Delayed due to immediate deficit	Active (20-year school facility updates)

Strategic Synthesis: The “So What?” Layer: The divergent experiences of these towns are rooted in timing. Templeton is facing a challenging year because it is currently absorbing a massive $5.2 million budget increase—driven by the rising costs of modern municipal management—all at once. Winchendon, having already passed its $1.9 million operational override in 2025, has already “right-sized” its budget. This historical context allows Winchendon to utilize debt exclusions for 20-year infrastructure projects, while Templeton must still secure the permanent funds just to keep the library doors open and the fire department staffed.

Critical Decision Points for FY27: The upcoming May 2026 votes represent a defining moment for the fiscal health of both communities. Winchendon is moving to mitigate long-term liability by capitalizing on state funding for schools, while Templeton is fighting for the fundamental ability to provide basic municipal services.

Templeton:

Annual Town Meeting: Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
Annual Town Election: Monday, May 18, 2026.

Winchendon:
- Strategy Status: Infrastructure focus and debt exclusion strategy finalized as of April 30, 2026.

Ultimately, these two communities illustrate the diverse ways Massachusetts towns navigate Proposition 2½. One town is successfully building for the future, while the other is in a high-stakes battle to preserve the essential services of the present. Both paths emphasize that in the current economic climate, proactive fiscal management is the only defense against municipal decline.

Council President Update 4-30-26 (4/30/2026)

From the President’s Desk – April 2026 with Gardner City Council President George Tyros.

In an April 2026 update, CLICK HERE FOR PDF, Gardner City Council President George Tyros outlines several legislative measures aimed at improving city operations and local governance. A major highlight includes the establishment of a standardized pay scale for non-union department heads to ensure pay equity and professional transparency.

The Council also simplified business signage regulations by moving them out of zoning laws to foster a more entrepreneurial environment. To promote civic inclusion, physical renovations are being made to the Council Chambers to improve disability access and community participation.

Additionally, the update notes the confirmation of new volunteers to local boards and the commencement of budget preparations for the upcoming fiscal year. These collective efforts reflect a focus on administrative efficiency and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
Michael Nicholson 4-22-26 Interview (4/22/2026)
INTERVIEW: Candidate for State Representative Michael Nicholson

Listen to the entire interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson is a candidate for the State Representative seat in the 2nd Worcester district, aiming to succeed the long-serving Jon Zlotnik.
- Motivation for Candidacy: Nicholson cites a record number of communities facing Proposition 2 ½ overrides and making “bone-deep” budget cuts rather than just “cutting fat.” He argues that Beacon Hill requires voices with direct local municipal experience to hit the ground running.
- Endorsement and Succession: Outgoing Representative Jonathan Zlotnik has endorsed Nicholson. The two share a long history; Nicholson previously interned for Zlotnik’s office ten years ago and spoke at Zlotnik’s 2020 campaign launch.
- District Focus: While currently Mayor of Gardner, Nicholson emphasizes his past role as Town Administrator in Rutland as evidence that he understands the unique challenges of smaller, rural communities within the Second Worcester District.
Michael Nicholson defines his approach to governance through the lens of human impact rather than abstract data.
- Human-Centric Legislation: Nicholson asserts that behind every dollar sign and decimal point in a bill is a person waiting for a better quality of life. He argues that housing, infrastructure, and economic development must be viewed as tools to help families decide to stay in the region.
- Regional Collaboration: He rejects the idea that communities exist in a vacuum. Under his philosophy, a new business in Templeton or a playground upgrade in Winchendon provides a “rising tide” that helps the entire North Central Massachusetts region by drawing in residents and boosting the collective economy.
- Boots-on-the-Ground Perspective: He intends to maintain active engagement with the district by attending selectmen and school committee meetings in all constituent communities to ensure state support aligns with local needs
The infographic below provides further details on key policy initiatives such as infrastructure, transportation, education, healthcare, housing, and economic development. Gardner Mayor Nicholson presents a background characterized by high academic achievement and diverse municipal experience.
City Council 4-21-26 (4/22/2026)

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 4-21-26

Personnel, Fiscal Responsibility, and Accessibility Among Topics of City Council

The Gardner City Council met on April 21, 2026 and confirmed various appointments. The council authorized a five year contract for a police policy delivery system and approved salary step designations for specific non-union department heads to improve pay consistency, an action which received positive comment by Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas.

The Council reviewed a communication from Mayor Michael Nicholson regarding his request to personally approve any expenses above $1,000 with the exception of Public Safety related items.

The ordinance regarding signage went to first printing. Council President George Tyros spoke on making the council chambers more accessible to the public, noting recent changes made by the Disability Commission.

Councilor Thibeault-Munoz urged participation in the Keep Gardner Beautiful event on Saturday, April 25th. Councilor Kazinskas urged people to attend the library book sale.

The Council voted to send a letter of appreciation to State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik who has announced his intention to leave his position at the end of this term.
Zlotnik 4-16-26 (4/16/2026)

State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik’s tenure has been notable for his work in supporting various initiatives including education, job training, veteran’s housing, and bringing home funding for various projects including the Rear Main Street Project and the Waterford Community Center. Zlotnik also secured helpful funding for Heywood Hospital during their financial crisis. The 2nd Worcester District includes: Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and precincts 2 and 3 in Winchendon.

“Z Man” Not Seeking Reelection

When he got the job over a decade ago, State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik was barely old enough to drink a beer. Now 14 years later, with a number of notable achievements under his belt, State Representative Zlotnik has announced that he will not be seeking another term. Zlotnik first was elected at age 21 to serve the 2nd Worcester District. Now at age 35, Zlotnik is old enough to be President of the United States. Zlotnik told Gardner Magazine that he’ll be able to provide information in a few weeks on what he’s doing next.

This is the statement from Jon Zlotnik: “Usually this is the time of year when I let everyone know that I have completed the paperwork to appear on the ballot in November. However, I’ve decided not to seek another term as our Representative to the House and will leave office at the end of this term. Over the last 14 years we have accomplished a great deal together and have much to be proud of in this district. Our community is resilient, and full of potential. I ran for this seat because I felt then, and still feel now, that to best harness that opportunity we need to bring state resources and local cooperation to bear. It has been an honor to serve this district and now it is time to pass the torch.

To all my supporters, thank you. You’ve stood in all sorts of New England weather holding my signs. You’ve funded my campaigns, put my sign on your lawn, and encouraged me along the way. You’ve convinced your friends, family, and neighbors to keep voting for me. You took a chance many years ago on a 21 year old kid, fresh out of college, with little on his resume, and gave him a shot. I hope I have earned that trust you placed in me, and lived up to the chance you took.“
Finance 4-14-26 (4/15/2026)

The infographic below provides further detail on the meeting of the Finance Committee, April 14, 2026.

Finance Committee Reviews the Numbers and Discusses Proposed NEW Chief of Staff position

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Finance Committee 4-14-26

The committee recommended that the full City Council approve a 5 year contract for the police department’s reporting and policy system. Mayor Nicholson proposed a new Chief of Staff position, intended to centralize municipal facilities management, oversight of the Waterford Community Center and City-wide communications. Also reviewed: a Four year schedule for water rate increases necessitated by infrastructure loan repayments and rising operational costs. Additionally, the Mayor provided a detailed update on the City’s health insurance trust fund, outlining various options to address a projected $1.4 million budget increase. Discussions also focused on non-essential spending freezes, department head salary steps, and administrative budget transfers.
Westminster – Issues and Answers (4/12/2026)

“Town Meeting 101” Guide incorporated in the Westminster Town Crier Episode 23

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Westminster Town Crier – Episode 23

Westminster Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen provides a comprehensive municipal update regarding upcoming community events and local governance. The discussion highlights springtime activities such as the farmers market, town cleanup day, and recent holiday celebrations organized by the parks committee. A significant portion of the episode serves as a “Town Meeting 101” guide, explaining the 23 warrant articles and the $30 million budget proposal set for voter approval in May. Lahtinen also addresses administrative requirements, including the deadline for dog license renewals and the status of a new 40B housing development on Adam Street.

Gardner Magazine also has Town Crier Episode 22 which focuses on municipal affairs and community life and features an interview with ML Altobelli who discusses the town’s agriculture heritage and the benefits of being a right-to-farm community. Discussion highlights the upcoming Westminster Farmers Market and provides practical advice for residents interested in backyard gardening. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Town Crier Episode 22

The episode also focused on the impact of a fatal car accident involving an Oakmont student, the town has extended condolences and deployed support resources. Support Presence: School resource officers have maintained a significant presence to assist students and staff. Resource Availability: Residents are encouraged to utilize support through local schools, the public safety department, and community networks.
Budget – Elections – Meetings – Decisions (4/9/2026)

Communities throughout North Central Massachusetts and the Greater Gardner MA area are facing budget challenges for their upcoming Fiscal 2027 budgets.

Social media is loaded with posts from residents of various communities expressing concerns about any tax increases so any proposed overrides which might be brought to voters are expected to face uphill battles.

Spring is Decision Time in Greater Gardner MA

In the City of Gardner, the budget process for the following year starts almost after the current year budget is approved. Mayor Michael Nicholson will submit the budget to the City Council for approval. With the fiscal year beginning July 1st, City Council sub-committees will meet with various Department heads and ask pertinent questions. Note that while the Mayor submits a budget, the City Council can’t add to it, it can only make cuts. The 6 Standing committees include Finance, Public Service, Public Safety, Public Welfare, Appointments, and Economic & Community Development, Current meeting schedules and agendas can be viewed here on the City of Gardner website.

Area communities

Athol: Margins in the recent defeat of the proposed override suggest voters were fundamentally opposed to the proposed expansions of the tax levy. Question 1A asking for $1.8 million was defeated 1,437 to 427. (77% opposed) Question 1B asking for $2.9 million was defeated 1,624 to 222. (88% opposed) Consequently, Town Manager Shaun Suhoski cautioned that the community should expect significant reductions in public services, specifically affecting the fire, police, and public works departments. Orange: Has its annual town meeting on May 11th.

Ashburnham: Town election is April 28th and the Town Meeting is early May Hubbardston: Town election is June 9th, town meeting is later. Phillipston: Town Meeting is May 6th and the town election is May 16th. Templeton: Town Meeting is May 14th and the Town election is May 19th. Westminster: Town Election is April 28th and the Town Meeting is May 2nd. Winchendon: Town Election is May 4th and the Town Meeting is May 18th. Petersham: Annual Town election was April 6th while the annual town meeting is June 1st.
City Council 4-6-26 (4/7/2026)

Gardner City Council Gets Visit from State Representative Zlotnik

Featured at the Gardner City Council meeting of April 6, 2026 was a comprehensive district update from State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. Zlotnik details critical shifts in state funding formulas, noting a significant increase in road maintenance aid and the final implementation phase of the Student Opportunity Act for local schools. He warns of a tightening state budget caused by expiring federal pandemic aid and implemented tax cuts, which may necessitate more disciplined local spending. The Zlotnik update is at the beginning of the meeting. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 4-6-26

The council also addresses internal governance issues, including concerns over union negotiations for department heads and the interpretation of the city charter regarding mayoral authority. Additionally, the session includes administrative actions such as accepting donations, approving budget transfers, and receiving updates on urban revitalization projects like the Rear Main Street development. Throughout the session, officials emphasize the importance of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and strategic grant management to sustain community services.
2000 Days – Nicholson (3/30/2026)

Photo shows Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson holding a canvas presented to the City by Gardner Magazine on occasion of the Mayor’s 2000 Days in Office and in recognition of the strategic initiatives that have led to Gardner MA being labeled a “Model City for America.”

2000 Days Towards the “Model City for America” – Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

This interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson marks the mayor’s 2000th day in office, detailing the strategic initiatives that have led to Gardner MA being labeled a “Model City for America”. Listen to the entire interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

2000 Days Towards the “Model City for America” – Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson 3-30-26

The discussion with Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel highlights the City’s aggressive use of grant writing to fund multimillion dollar infrastructure projects, including water system overhauls and underground electrical wiring without straining the local budget. Mayor Michael Nicholson explains how investments in community policing, vocational education, and public safety prevention have successfully lowered crime rates and fostered local pride. The dialogue also covers the revitalization of vacant municipal buildings into housing and community centers to address the regional housing crisis. Throughout the conversation, the Mayor emphasizes a philosophy of continuous adaptation and proactive planning to ensure the City remains resilient and forward-thinking. Targeted local governance and resource management has transformed Gardner’s trajectory.

The infographic below provides some more details about the Mayor’s 2000 Days in office.
Update 3-27-26 (3/27/2026)

March Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson outlines a variety of upcoming community events and municipal initiatives as the city transitions into spring. Residents are encouraged to participate in local traditions like the Downtown flower pot sponsorship, the farmers market, and an annual litter cleanup. The address also highlights significant administrative reminders, such as the deadline for dog licensing (March 31st) and the introduction of the city’s first comprehensive master plan. Additionally, the Mayor provides a transparent look at the city’s fiscal challenges, noting that rising costs in healthcare and transportation will necessitate tightened budgets and difficult financial decisions. Infrastructure projects are also discussed, including necessary structural repairs to City Hall and the relocation of a veterans’ ceremony due to construction.

Gardner Safety Action Plan (3/25/2026)

Safety Action Plan Announced in Gardner MA

The City of Gardner has announced the creation of a comprehensive Safety Action Plan aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries on local roads. Complete Press Release, CLICK HERE.

Supported by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, this initiative utilizes a Safe System Approach that prioritizes human safety through improved roadway design. Local officials intend to use data analysis and public feedback to identify high-risk locations and develop effective infrastructure solutions. By establishing this formal strategy, the city will become eligible for further government funding to implement physical safety improvements. Ultimately, the project represents a commitment to protecting all commuters by acknowledging human error and engineering a more forgiving transportation network.

Printable version 8 1/2 x11, CLICK HERE.

Gardner is the “Model City for America.”

Strategic Initiative: The Gardner Safety Action Plan : jThe City of Gardner has initiated the Gardner Safety Action Plan, a data-driven strategy designed to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries. Funded by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (U.S. DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, the initiative adopts a “Safe System Approach.” This methodology focuses on roadway designs that account for human error to prevent loss of life. The plan serves as a foundational requirement for the city to pursue future federal and state implementation grants aimed at infrastructure improvements.

Program Foundations and Funding: The initiative is rooted in national and regional safety frameworks:

Federal Alignment: The plan supports the U.S. DOT National Roadway Safety Strategy, which seeks to reach a goal of zero roadway deaths. Grant Funding: Development is made possible through the SS4A program, a federal initiative helping communities create comprehensive safety plans. Regional Integration: The Gardner Safety Action Plan builds upon the existing Regional Safety Action Plan established by the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission.

The Safe System Approach: A central pillar of the Gardner Safety Action Plan is the Safe System Approach. This methodology differs from traditional traffic safety by: Acknowledging Human Error: Recognizing that roadway users will inevitably make mistakes. Prioritizing Safety in Design: Focusing on engineering and roadway configurations that reduce the physical impact of crashes, thereby minimizing the likelihood of severe injury or death. Multi-Level Prioritization: Ensuring safety is the primary consideration at every level of the transportation system.

Strategic Objectives and Implementation Over the coming months, the City of Gardner will execute a multi-phase process to develop the plan:

Objective	Action Items
Community Engagement	Utilizing public meetings and interactive tools to collect input on safety priorities from residents.
Data Analysis	Analyzing local traffic data to identify high-risk areas and determine the most effective safety solutions.
Collaboration	Partnering with local organizations, agencies, and stakeholders to draft an equitable Vision Zero Plan.
Project Identification	Determining priority safety needs and creating a list of implementation-ready projects.

Leadership Perspectives: Mayor Michael J. Nicholson emphasized the human element of the initiative, stating: “Every serious crash on our streets represents a family, a neighbor, or a friend whose life has been forever changed. Gardner deserves streets where everyone can travel safely, and this plan is a major step toward achieving that goal.”

Future Outlook The completion of the Safety Action Plan is a strategic prerequisite for the city’s long-term infrastructure goals. Once finalized, Gardner will be eligible to pursue SS4A implementation grants and other state and federal funding sources to transition identified safety projects from the planning phase to active construction. Public Information Portal: CLICK HERE.

Winchendon – March 2026 (3/20/2026)

Winchendon MA News, Community Happenings, and Shopping for March 2026

Listen to a “Deep Dive” podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Winchendon MA – March 2026

Gardner Magazine focuses on Winchendon’s local governance and community life. The week of March 23rd (detailed in the infographic below) will be a busy one for municipal meetings including the Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee, Library Trustees, Board of Assessors, Economic Development Task Force and the Winchendon Youth Commission.

Winchendon has community activities for all ages including children’s storytime at the Beal’s Memorial Library, senior activities at The Hub, and outdoor opportunities at Lake Dennison. We’ve also highlighted Winchendon’s “Buy Local” initiative and highlighted the unique dining and culinary offerings and the “farm to table” resources in Winchendon.
Templeton – March 2026 (3/20/2026)

Highlighting Goings-on in Templeton MA for March 2026

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady speak of it all in this podcast which you can listen to on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Templeton MA – March 2026

Various events and deadlines are coming up in Templeton, MA. Nomination papers for the town election are due March 26th. Dogs should be licensed by the end of March. Statutory exemption applications and unpaid excise tax bill demands are due April 1st. And, there’s only about a month left for the open burning season which ends on May 1st.

In a recent update, officials focused on the draft of the fiscal 2027 budget, managing payroll, and processing property tax assessment. Our infographic below details public services and infrastructure, parks and recreation, public safety and health, land use, and community services.
Hubbardston – March 2026 (3/20/2026)

An Overview of Upcoming Events in Hubbardston MA for March 2026

Listen to a “Deep Dive” going over all the details on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE -Hubbardston MA – March 2026

Our infographic provides details for Hubbardston Massachusetts with various municipal updates and community services. This year, Hubbardston saw the appointment of an interim Town Administrator and the opening of several employment opportunities within local government. Key public notices include upcoming town elections, scholarship applications for students, and workshops regarding local land use. We also mention once again the HubbConnect digital platform and updated accessibility plans to comply with the ADA. Keep Hubbardston Beautiful Day is April 19th, the 10th Annual Hubbardston Fair is June 6th, the annual town election is June 9th, and of course, Rietta Flea Market opens for the season Sunday, April 5th. Excise taxes were due March 16th – Pay now to avoid the headache of a penalty letter in the mail
Ashburnham March 2026 (3/18/2026)
Spotlight on Ashburnham MA – March 2026

The Town of Ashburnham is currently navigating a period characterized by significant environmental challenges, cybersecurity threats, and upcoming legislative adjustments. As of early 2026, the primary concerns for the municipality include a Level 3 – Critical Drought affecting Millers Basin and a rise in fraudulent phishing activities targeting residents.

Key administrative priorities focus on governance and public participation, specifically through a public hearing regarding zoning bylaw amendments and the urgent need to fill various town board vacancies. Community engagement remains a pillar of town operations, evidenced by the upcoming Annual Egg Hunt and the continued promotion of digital notification systems to keep the populace informed.

Upcoming Event: Annual Egg Hunt on Sunday, March 29, 2026 taking place from 11am to 12:30pm at Winchester Park
Phillipston March 2026 (3/18/2026)

Phillipston MA Happenings March 2026

The Town of Phillipston put out a comprehensive guide to local civic engagement and upcoming Spring festivities. CLICK HERE. The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss it all. Listen on any device.

DEEP DIVE – Phillipston MA March 2026

The Phillipston Newsletter details critical municipal deadlines, such as obtaining nomination papers for the annual town election and registering for the town meeting in May. Residents can also find schedules for the public library, Historical Society, and Lions Club, along with information on available youth scholarships. Religious reflections from the Congregational Church are included, alongside invitations to a large-scale Easter egg hunt at Red Apple Farm. Our detailed infographic profiles all the happenings.

In other Phillipston MA News, Chief Administrative Officer Adam Lamontagne submitted his resignation which the Board of Selectmen accepted at their March 4, 2026 meeting. View resignation letter, CLICK HERE. Adam Lamontagne has entered into a contract with the Acushnet Board of Selectmen with a start date of April 1, 2026. At the March 4, 2026 meeting, the Board also appointed Jenn Basso as Assistant to the Board of Selectmen. She has began working full-time at Town Hall and she can be reached by phone at (978) 249-1737 or email at jbasso@phillipston-ma.gov. Lamontagne will stay the month of March for the transition of duties. Lamontagne stated “The Town of Phillipston will always have a special place in my heart and I thank the Board as well as the community for the opportunity to have served.”
City Council 3-16-26 (3/16/2026)

The Gardner City Council authorized the Council President to seek legal clarification regarding its ability to participate in contract talks when individuals who report to the City Council are involved. While George Tyros’ remarks are included in the meeting AUDIO, we highlight them here.

Council President Tyros 3-16-26

Despite Absence of 3 Councilors – City Council was filled with Life on March 16^th

Literally throughout the meeting you can hear the sound of a very happy baby who was obviously watching the meeting to get an early Civics education. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 3-16-26

The Gardner City Council Meeting on March 16, 2026 focused on municipal governance, specifically regarding personnel appointments and labor negotiations. The Council addressed a jurisdictional dispute with the Teamsters Union, voting to seek clarification on whether the legislative branch can participate in contract talks for City-appointed positions like the Treasurer.

A significant portion of the session involved confirming Mayoral appointees for roles in the conservation and historical commissions, as well as several local police officers.

Financial matters included the acceptance of the 2027 Capital Improvement Plan and the approval of funding for infrastructure repairs to the James Street Pump Station.

The meeting concluded with a commitment by Council President George Tyros to increased financial oversight as the Council prepares for the upcoming budget season. The infographic below provides more detail on the meeting and the matters discussed.
This Week 3-13-26 (3/13/2026)

Weekly News Magazine – This Week in the Chair City – March 13, 2026

This Week in the Chair City has a new musical theme and a new style. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

This Week 3-13-26

This edition of our weekly news magazine provides a comprehensive overview of various stories Gardner Magazine has covered in the past week. It’s a comprehensive update on municipal affairs and community developments in Gardner including infrastructure challenges such as budget overruns for Downtown projects and ongoing concerns regarding accessibility and drought conditions. Various local boards address specific administrative needs ranging from cannabis permit modifications to discussing the Sludge Landfill. Community history is a topic with the Historical Commission in focus and its efforts towards centralizing public assets for better efficiency. It’s a detailed report on the City’s fiscal, social, and legislative progress as Gardner navigates the transition into the Spring season.
Winchendon BOS 3-9-26 (3/11/2026)

FULL COVERAGE: Winchendon Board of Selectmen March 9, 2026.

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Winchendon BOS 3-9-26

During the over 2 1/2 Hour meeting of the Winchendon Board of Selectmen on March 9, 2026, the focus was on local governance and infrastructure updates. A significant portion of the session involved a public hearing regarding utility pole installations by National Grid to support a new substation and increase regional power capacity.

The Board officially approved several volunteer appointments to the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Cultural Council, while also honoring a local Eagle Scout. Building Commissioner Rick Germano presented plans to modernize the town’s permitting process through new digital software and discussed proposed fee increases.

Extensive deliberations were held to revise municipal policies concerning sexual harassment, protected class discrimination, and vacation accrual for future employees. The Board established the May 2026 dates for the annual town meeting and election, including the placement of school-related debt exclusion questions on the ballot.

Election: May 4, 2026. Town Meeting: May 18, 2026. The Town Meeting warrant is open until April 21st at noon. Our infographic below provides more detail on the meeting.
Bellyaching – Editorial (3/7/2026)

Local Bellyaching – Commentary by Werner Poegel

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Bellyaching Commentary 3-7-26

You all know the type, the bellyacher. On the national level, the bellyaching politicians drive everybody crazy. My commentary focuses on suggestions for a more positive local approach. I also give some positive examples such as Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who has a “People are Policy” philosophy and honors the dignity of each individual. And, Department Head Dane Arnold of DPW who is well-liked by staff. And I use as the one of the best examples, Dr. Mark Pellegrino, the Superintendent of Schools who I think has a magic formula for social emotional learning and high achievement in Gardner Public Schools, mostly by treating each student as an individual and finding ways for each person to succeed.

In contrast, I use as a negative example the style of Council President George Tyros who made a “Federal case” out of the recent DPW donation incident. That’s where kind-hearted DPW employees went out of their way to collect scrap metal and had a goal of giving more than ever before to the Gardner CAC and they did reach a remarkable tally of over $10,000. Sure, permission should have been obtained from the City Council because the scrap metal was collected by City employees on City time. And sure, the Mayor could have immediately stopped the check from being cashed. But the City Council did not consider that there probably wouldn’t have been so much scrap metal collected if the goal of helping the CAC wasn’t fueling the Herculean effort. Rather than being praised, DPW was lambasted in public and I find that shockingly wrong.

In my opinion, there’s no smiles lately from City Councilors at City Council meetings because the joy has been sucked out of the room, and that should change. Constructive oversight is good, but lately there’s just too much bellyaching about process issues when Gardner’s success as the “Model City for America” should be celebrated with joy.
Zlotnik Map (3/5/2026)

Intern Theo Anderson Creates the Zlotnik Map of Wow

Sometimes it takes a new set of eyes to discover the reality of success. Thus was the result of a project by Jonathan Zlotnik’s intern Theo Anderson who put a map together which graphically showcases the sheer enormity of many of the various projects and programs Zlotnik’s office has worked to deliver state funding to support. As Jonathan Zlotnik states: “ Every pin on this map is the result of hard work and collaboration with local officials, non-profits, or businesses to support important work going on throughout my district for our community.”

Gardner Magazine is calling it the “Map of WOW”.

Look at the entire list below. The sheer enormity of the list of success made our eyes bug out.

Fortunately, Gardner Magazine is a digital publication. Otherwise the cost of typesetting the list would have been a staggering sum indeed.

Here’s the complete Zlotnik list of successes: Rear Main Phase I ($1.2 Million) — Garbose Metal Factory Project ($2 Million) — Boosting Attendance and Achievement at AWRSD ($5,000) — Boosting Attendance and Achievement at CAPS ($3,000) — Boosting Attendance and Achievement at Gardner Public Schools ($125,000) — Climate Event Preparedness ($34,000) — Making AWRSD Safer ($59,604) — Making Gardner Public Schools Safer ($60,000) — Making Winchendon Public Schools Safer ($58,615) –Virtual Learning at Monty Tech ($348,258) — Creating a Greener Ashburnham ($20,254) — Creating a Greener Winchendon ($189,673) – – Recycling in Gardner ($14,300) — Advanced Manufacturing in Gardner Schools ($30,000) — EVs in Timpany Plaza ($50,000) — EVs at MWCC ($37,500) — Keeping Ashburnham SAFE ($13,363) — Keeping Winchendon SAFE ($21,703) — Keeping Elderly SAFE in Winchendon ($11,669) — Historic Downtown Ashburnham ($333,832) — Cultural Education at Elm St School ($5,000) — Moving Winchendon Upstream ($649,547) — FEMA Helping our Fire Depts ($2,824) — Keeping Our Fire Departments Healthy ($21,857) — ECE at MWCC ($200,000) –Scholarships at MWCC ($28,000) — Rehabilitating Mt. Watatic ($38,650) — Outdoor Dining in Gardner ($47,999) — Climate Event Preparedness ($22,000) — Tweens and Teens in the Library ($17,100) — Remote Instruction in Gardner Public Schools ($116,500) — Recycling in Westminster ($750) — Drive Safe Ashburnham ($66,728) — Edward J Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Program ($39,867) — Innovation in Gardner Schools ($100,000) — Eat Up Monty Tech ($323,160) –Training for the Future at Monty Tech ($125,000) — Keeping our Kids Safe and Responsible ($825,000) — Railroad St Development ($715,510) — GAAMHA Buses (6 Buses) — Driving Gardner Forward (15 Vehicles) — Digital Literacy in Gardner ($4,200) — Rock on Winchendon ($50) — Wilder Brook Culvert Upgrade ($123,400) — Making Downtown Ashburnham Great ($29,849) — Reconnecting Gardner to Nature ($100,000) — Keeping our Lifesavers Safe ($43,627.27) — Keeping our Students Sharp ($75,000) — Dental Hygiene at MWCC ($250,000) — Restoring Public Parks for the Future ($380,000) — Keep Recycling Gardner ($75,900) — Reducing Waste in Winchendon ($17,750) — Reducing Waste in Westminster ($750) — Rear Main Phase II ($4.1 Million) — New Housing for Gardner ($900,000) — Upgrading Municipal Efficiency ($1,400) — Cloud-Based Phones in Ashburnham ($10,800) — Infrastructure Upgrades in Gardner ($10,000) — Helping Gardner Take Off ($110,000) — Holiday Lights Ashburnham ($1,500) — Firefighter Safety in Westminster ($15,356) — Improving Fuel Efficiency in Winchendon ($43,934) — Improving Fuel Efficiency in Winchendon ($175,904) — Supporting Student Mental Health ($150,000) — Keeping Ashburnham Cyber Safe (52 Employees) — Stay SAFE Gardner ($25,516) — Stay SAFE Westminster ($4,575) — Helping Seniors Stay Protected from Fires ($12,679) — Helping Seniors Stay Protected from Fires ($2,855) –Keeping Templeton Cyber Safe (90 Employees) — Healthy Meals for Gardner Schools ($6,419) –Blazing Pathways Forward ($30,000) — Family Fun in Winchendon ($45,700) — Blazing Trails into Nature ($200,000) — Improving Monty Tech’s Equipment ($30,000) — Pathways to the Rink ($400,000) — Responding to Market Demand at Monty Tech HVAC ($399,546) — MWCC at the Cutting Edge of the Nursing Industry ($500,000) — Safe Roads in Westminster ($15,020) — Improving Payment Efficiency ($42,500) — Keeping Gardner’s Water Clean ($50,000) — Paving the Way Forward ($1 Million) — Community Planning in Ashburnham ($75,000) — Startup Strong with WBI ($17,500)Dine Outside in Gardner ($30,000) — Reviving Gardner’s Historic Downtown ($40,000)Wheels Up Gardner ($403,500) — Ensuring Fast Emergency Response ($205,145) — Planning for the Future ($75,000) — Improving Career Options for Nurses ($525,000) — Providing Jobs for Greater Gardner ($300,000) — Bouncing Back Strong in our Schools ($6,100) — Keeping our Schools Cyber Safe (185 User Lisences) — Keeping Gardner Cyber Safe (170 User Lisences) — Keeping Winchendon Cyber Safe (100 User Lisences) — Promoting the Arts in Winchendon ($2,500) — Boosting Local Cultural Opportunities ($2,500) — Jamming Out in Winchendon ($2,500) — Promoting the Winchendon Winds ($2,500) — Protecting our Water Infrastructure ($9.56 Million) — Advancing Manufacturing in Central MA ($100,000) — Blazing Pathways in Early Childhood Education ($515,055) — A New Dawn for the Arts ($107,000) — Keeping City Government Connected ($200,000) — Keeping Winchendon Town Government Connected ($189,350) — Accelerating Students Forward ($19,475) — Helping Our Youngest Learners ($500,000) — Investigating History in Gardner ($14,500) — Investigating History in Winchendon ($118,559) — Boosting Community Development ($1.65 Million) — Boosting Community Development ($1.35 Million) –Blazing Innovation Pathways ($50,000) — Improved Recycling Efficiency in Gardner ($16,500)Find Your Way to Downtown Ashburnham ($50,000) — Growing Gardner’s Downtown ($900,000)Reusing Old Buildings for Housing ($750,000) — One Stop for Community Development ($90,000)Safe Travels Gardner! ($91,275) — Lights, Camera, Action ($90,000) — Helping Small Businesses is Beautiful ($46,000) — On the Menu: Helping Small Businesses ($69,000) — Helping Students Plan for the Future ($5,500) — Let’s Learn About MART! ($35,000) — Addressing Transportation Needs for the Elderly ($80,000) — Unifying Community Development Under One Plan ($90,000) — Addressing the Housing Shortage in Downtown Gardner ($500,000) — Ensuring High Quality Education ($123,900) — Firefighter Safety in Gardner ($69,756.82) — Keeping Our Lifesavers Safe ($41,089)Stay SAFE Templeton ($4,500) — Keeping Our Lifesavers Safe ($35,280) — Keeping Templeton Seniors SAFE ($2,200) — Improving Community Fitness in Winchendon ($321,400)Serving the Area’s Nurses ($439,121) — Body Cameras for Ashburnham PD ($71,575)Body Cameras for Winchendon PD ($59,440) — Safe Connections in Winchendon ($209,385)Targeted Support for Gardner Schools ($50,000) — Targeted Support for Winchendon Schools ($100,000) — Protecting Institutions from Violence ($74,657) — Weatherizing Winchendon Public Buildings ($208,429) — Keeping Ashburnham Flood Proof ($377,652) — Improving Our Roadway Infrastructure ($290,000) — Helping Revive Downtown Gardner ($3.5 Million)Supporting Public Health ($300,000) — Giving Veterans the Support they Need ($16,600,000)– Stopping Domestic Violence ($11,230) — Keeping the Lights On Safely ($3,050)Ensuring the Highest Quality Instruction in our Schools ($18,000) — Keeping Our Infrastructure Working ($384,400) — Giving Old Items New Life ($6,000) — Giving our Students the Gift of Creativity ($5,000) –Inspiring Creativity Through Dining ($2,500) — Keeping Our Lifesavers Safe ($75,658) — Improving WiFi Access for Olde English Village ($181,674) — Zoning Updates ($92,700)Improving Senior Mobility ($50,000) — Improving Permitting Efficiency ($21,500) — Better Financial Tech for Winchendon ($83,151) — Keeping Ashburnham Seniors SAFE ($6,748) — Building Bridges for Winchendon ($100,000) — HVAC Update for Ashburnham Fire Dept ($25,000) — MWCC COVID Response ($138,853) — Drive Safe Westminster ($12,000) — Helping Students Post COVID ($20,000) — Cycling Through Winchendon ($399,831) — Stay Healthy with CHNA-9 ($75,000)Healthy Meals for Narragansett ($8,478) — Orpheum Park ($50,000) — Maki Block ($500,000)Ryan Block Apartments ($900,000) — Rome Block ($640,000) — Let’s Swim Gardner! ($1.1 Million)Saving Our Old School Buildings ($750,000) — Stay Healthy with the Winchendon Fire Department ($175,904) — Ensuring the Highest Quality Instruction in Our Schools ($12,500) — Building Bridges for Community Fitness ($300,000) — GAAMHA Facility Improvement ($450,000) — Funding Local Heritage ($100,000) — Restoring Perry Auditorium ($325,000) — Expanding Housing for Female Veterans ($1,075,000) — Handicap Bathrooms for the Winchendon Senior Center ($50,000) –Establishing the Wachusett Business Incubator ($225,000) — Service Learning at the Brewer Center ($1,050,000) — Expanding STEM at MWCC ($200,000) — Improving the Bresnahan Scouting Center ($120,000) — Playgrounds in Gardner ($40,000) — Supporting Working Families ($100,000)Training Equipment for Westminster Fire Dept ($25,000) — Heating Upgrades at Narragansett ($150,000) — Improving the CAC ($200,000) — GAAMHA Facility Improvements ($25,000)Moving the CAC ($225,000) — Creating a Teen Center for Gardner ($100,000) — Gardner Community Center ($500,000) — On-Site Academy (1,500,000) — Gardner is Growing Places ($450,000) –MWCC COVID Recovery ($261,888)
City Council 3-2-26 (3/3/2026)

Council President George Tyros utilized closing remarks to address what he described as a pattern of financial mismanagement within the City Administration over the last six months. Gardner Magazine reached out to Mayor Michael Nicholson for his reaction and/or response and we have updated this article with the Mayor’s response below:

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Council President George Tyros describes a pattern of “financial mismanagement” within the City Administration Over the last 6 months

Update: Mayor Nicholson’s response is below: CLICK HERE.

At the Gardner City Council meeting of March 2, 2026, Council President George Tyros utilized closing remarks to address what he described as a pattern of financial mismanagement within the City Administration over the last six months. Key concerns cited include: Operational failures with utility bills for city services going unpaid resulting in shut-off notices on several occasions, procedural lapses such as donations needing retroactive approval months after the fact, transparency issues such as information regarding new revolving account submitted with incomplete details, misappropriation such as funds for the salt shed appropriation allegedly spent on unauthorized items, budgetary caps, and the library director reporting a total lack of communication regarding the fiscal year 2027 budget. Listen to the Council President’s remarks on any device, CLICK PLAY.

George Tyros 3-2-26

Listen to the entire City Council meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 3-2-26

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson’s response: “I’ve said throughout my time in office that our job as public officials is to make sure our residents know what we are doing in City Hall every day on their behalf. This is why increased transparency has been such a such a big priority of my administration. I think there are a lot of places where improvements can be made in internal operations to make things more efficient and effective. We’ve made improvements in this area, as we saw with the Community Development Department over the last year, and I look forward to continuing that process working with other departments to ensure our residents receive the best possible outcomes from City Hall. Training staff on the correct policies and procedures that need to be followed is something that we have made an increased effort in doing. As we move into the FY27 Budget season, I look forward to working with the City Council to get the best results for our residents as possible.”

In other matters: The City Council recognized the 65th anniversary of the Peace Corps, having proclaimed March 1st National Peace Corps Day, updated sign regulations, updated the non-union salary item, struck an accidental “password” from the meeting minutes, and referred the GCAT item to the City’s law department to get clarification on legal standing to use City accounts.
Workin’ for the Town (2/28/2026)

Publisher’s Note: Working for a city or town in Massachusetts offers a unique combination of strong statutory benefits, long-term job stability, and the opportunity to directly impact local quality of life. After a certain number of years of service, you can receive a guaranteed pension for life. Most communities offer robust health plans. All have a significant number of paid holidays. You can see the tangible results of your work within your own community or area.

Interested in working for a City or Town? – Here’s some Municipal Jobs Available in Area Communities

Area communities have a variety of open positions on February 28, 2026. The Town or City Name links to the jobs page on that community’s website.

Ashburnham: Full-time Patrol officer, Highway Department Equipment Operator, Municipal Light Plant Line worker, and part-time public safety dispatcher.

Athol: Assistant Health Agent, DPW Employees, and a part-time parking ambassador (up to 10 hours per week issuing parking citations.

Barre: Fire Department Administrative Assistant, Assessor Clerk, DPW Truck Driver – Skilled Laborer, and Seasonal Laborer.

Gardner: Full Time: Facilities Maintenance Manager, DPW Laborer, Director of Public Health, Assistant Director of Veteran’s Services. Part-time: Administrative Coordinator, Board of Health, Transfer Station Monitor.

Hubbardston: Town Accountant, Executive Assistant

Phillipston: On-call firefighters

Royalston: Part-time patrol officer positions for patrols and details.

Templeton: Full Time: Highway Foreman. Part-time: Police Officer, Cable Media Assistant.

Westminster: Part-time: Police Patrolman, Alternate Plumbing and Gas Inspector.

Winchendon: No current jobs posted, but here is their jobs page.
Hotline Radio 2-28-26 (2/28/2026)

Lots of Information on Special Hotline Radio Show of 2-28-26: CITY GOVERNMENT EDITION

Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

WGAW Hotline Radio 2-28-26

First up on WGAW Hotline Radio: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson: Discussion of being ready for the snow this weekend and the snow budget . “Plenty of places to put it, we’re ready for it”. Already have spent about $815,000 this season. — Discussion of grants applied for by the City including $875,000 in Federal block grants. Gardner is considered a mini-entitlement community which means Federal funds pass through the State. — ADA compliance in the City — Upgrades to City parks including Ovila Case, Bickford, and more The Mayor noted that 1/3 of the City is protected open space. “There is a lot to offer here in Gardner.” —

The Mayor continued: City Summer Recreation program has been successful. — Tiny Homes in the City of Gardner and development interest, including a proposal for a 36 unit tiny home project on Whitney Street. — Projects in the City are just waiting for Spring to arrive. — “We have to wait for the snow to be gone.” — A Discussion of infrastructure and projects. — Please register for Code Red if you haven’t already. One of the biggest reasons calls don’t get through is Spam Call Blocking. The City of Gardner is looking at other alternatives with all options on the table.

Frank Bushey of Athol on Frankfoot insoles

Council President George Tyros was interviewed by host Steve Wendell. Subjects included: Non -union Municipal salaries and the new more equitable system. More employees were added to the Step system in the past month. Boosts retention and helps in attracting new employees when positions are advertised. — Hiring of new City Auditor who was elected by City Council – The auditor is “an independent set of eyes on the City books.” — Discussion of the over $10,000 donation by DPW to CAC – all donations, outgoing and incoming must be approved by City Council — Salt Shed Issue – Councilor Mack discovered issue of some leftover funds used to purchase other equipment not authorized by Council — Money for salt shed needs to be paid back to stabilization fund. Appointments.

Notification Commentary with Werner Poegel – Poegel suggests officials should notify the media about storms and other matters.

February Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. The AUDIO of his monthly update.
Meeting Triple Play (2/27/2026)

We’re calling it a “Triple Play” of Meetings as all three meetings relate to the finances involved in various municipal and private projects in the City of Gardner Massachusetts.

Actively engaged in all of this are Mayor Michael Nicholson, City Councilors, the Economic Development Department, the Engineering Department, and even Public Safety such as the Fire Department. All play a part in reviewing these important plans affecting Gardner’s future.

There’s so much material here we have 3 infographics below. To view them adequately, just click on an image of your choice for a larger view.

Meeting Triple Play: Three Different Meetings Illustrate Financial and Project Environment in Gardner MA.

Finance Committee February 24, 2026 focused on the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 Capital Improvement Plan and various municipal funding requests. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson explained that while the capital plan serves as a necessary legal guide for grant eligibility and loan applications, it does not guarantee immediate funding for all municipal projects. Other items: Pedestrian safety improvements near West Broadway, the bridge design project funded by state grants, allocation of enterprise funds fore repairing James Street pump station, the snow removal budget, and the formal acceptance of some private donations. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 2-24-26

The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee meeting of February 25th focused on grant allocations and municipal facility upgrades. Detailed were recommendations for $875,000 in federal block grants to fund social services, street improvements, and local community programs. A status report was given on the Waterford Community Center, focusing on tenant progress and infrastructure repairs. Mayor Nicholson updated the group on ADA compliance, electrical upgrades,, and a future solar panel installation project for the center’s roof. Also discussed, the zoning ordinance amendment to simplify business signage and updates on public park renovations and upcoming community development goals. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Economic and Community Development 2-25-26

The Development Review Committee met on February 27th. Discussed was a proposed 36-unit tiny home project on Whitney Street. This conceptual plan, presented on behalf of a local developer, represents the first application of its kind following the city’s newly adopted zoning regulations. Key discussions focus on infrastructure requirements, including the use of private wells and a common septic system rather than public utilities. Officials and engineers also address regulatory compliance concerning road width, parking availability, and potential impacts on nearby wetlands. The meeting serves as a preliminary dialogue to ensure the project aligns with building codes and environmental standards before moving to formal boards. Ultimately, the committee aims to clarify how these modern housing solutions fit within existing municipal frameworks.

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Development Review 2-27-26

We have three detailed infographics for you. To view the larger view, just click on the image of interest.
Westminster – March 2026 (2/27/2026)

Insights and Highlights from the Westminster MA South Street Sentinel, March 2026 Edition

Listen to a discussion of the newsletter contents on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Westminster MA – March 2026

The Westminster South Street Sentinel highlights the dedicated efforts of the Department of Public Works and Public Safety teams in managing severe weather while providing practical advice on road salt effectiveness and sidewalk clearing. Also detailed: Essential civic deadlines for taxes, water bills, and upcoming local elections. Community engagement is a central theme, featuring youth activities such as summer camp employment, local sledding recommendations, and school band events. New municipal staff is introduced and there’s plenty of local news for the community.

As of March 2026, the Town of Westminster has navigated a season characterized by relentless winter storms and extreme freezing temperatures. These conditions have placed significant operational demands on the Department of Public Works (DPW) and Public Safety professionals. Critical insights from this period include the technical challenges of road treatment in sub-zero temperatures—specifically the delayed activation of salt—and the logistical burdens created by private plowing interference with public sidewalks.

Administratively, the town is entering a high-activity phase with several critical deadlines. Residents must address upcoming tax payments, water bills, and dog licensing throughout March. Furthermore, the town is preparing for its civic cycle, with the Citizens’ Caucus and the Annual Town Election scheduled for late April. Community support remains a priority, evidenced by the activation of various fuel assistance programs and the reintroduction of the “Backyard Growing Series.” Despite winter challenges, community engagement remains robust through local fundraisers, library programming, and recognition of excellence within the regional school district.
Update 2-27-26 (2/26/2026)

City of Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson February 2026 Update

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson highlights a critical transition period in his February 2026 update as the City moves from winter operations into spring planning. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Mayor’s Update – February 27, 2026

Mayor Nicholson advised that several technical barriers have been discovered which are preventing residents from receiving critical alerts. Residents who may not have received a call this season are urged to reregister via the City website or by calling the Mayor’s office. Barriers identified include residents ignoring calls because the phone number is not from a 978 area code, mobile devices getting caught by a spam blockers which requires callers to Press 1 to proceed, and devices set on airplane mode which diverts calls directly to voicemail.

The Mayor reminded residents of several deadlines and events which are shown in the infographic below and stated that projects will resume once the snow is gone.
State of the Union 2026 (2/24/2026)

President Donald Trump Delivers State of the Union Address

In a nearly 2 hour address, the President spoke to the nation and honored its heroes. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY:

State of the Union – President Donald Trump – 2-24-26

President Donald Trump spoke about economic revitalization and fiscal policy, border security and public safety, healthcare and social policy, and foreign policy and national defense.

The President highlighted policy successes including a reduction in taxes in several areas, flow of fentanyl reduced by more than half, decline in crime, drug discounts, ending regional conflicts, foreign policy success, and more. Many of the topics discussed are in the colorful infographic presented below.

Printable HD png file of infographic, CLICK HERE.
Infrastructure Interview (2/18/2026)

Gardner Magazine has more! – The complete interview page includes 5 separate related reports and infographics and a VIDEO. Here is the page, CLICK HERE.

Gardner MA Infrastructure: Interview with Gardner Mayor Nicholson

On February 18, 2026, Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about Infrastructure in Gardner. We covered all the bases. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

INFRASTRUCTURE – Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on February 18, 2026

The Interview covered the extensive infrastructure projects and economic strategies in Gardner, Massachusetts. The discussion highlights significant utility upgrades, including underground electrical work in South Gardner and the installation of a new transformer to revitalize downtown buildings. Mayor Nicholson details the city’s approach to housing development by repurposing former school sites and utilizing state grants to attract diverse new businesses. The overview also covers educational advancements, such as the “multi-tiered system of support” and early college programs that allow students to earn degrees before high school graduation.

Additionally, the Mayor addresses facility improvements at City Hall and the police station, while navigating complex challenges like the sludge landfill capacity and potential fire station renovations. Overall, the dialogue emphasizes a proactive vision for the “Chair City” of Gardner through strategic investments in infrastructure and the efficient use of municipal property

Jump to various reports on our complete page: Gardner Infrastructure: Mayor Nicholson’s 2026 Vision —–2026 Gardner Municipal Infrastructure Progress Report: Strategic Modernization & Operational Resilience —– Gardner Open for Business: A Strategic Framework for Sustainable Growth and Investment —– The Pulse of the Chair City: A Citizen’s Guide to Gardner’s Infrastructure —- Gardner’s Blueprint: A Citizen’s Glossary of Municipal Process —- Go to complete page, CLICK HERE.
City Council 2-17-26 (2/18/2026)

At the Gardner City Council meeting, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about discontinuing the Sludge Landfill Expansion. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Nicholson re Sludge Landfill 2-17-26

Council President George Tyros commented on the visit by 2 members of the U.S. Congress to Gardner and congratulated Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas on her recent engagement. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Tyros Comments 2-17-26

Sludge Landfill Expansion Plan Discontinued – New City Auditor Elected and Sworn In – Financial Oversight Debated

The Gardner MA City Council met on February 17, 2026. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 2-17-26

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson announced that he is discontinuing the expansion of the City’s Sludge Landfill, city environmental and fiscal concerns following state regulatory reviews.

Karen Butler was formally elected and sworn in as the new City Auditor. Various Mayoral appointments to local commissions were confirmed.

Significant debate occurred regarding financial oversight, specifically a retroactive approval of a DPW donation exceeding $10,000 to the Gardner CAC from scrap metal proceeds and discrepancies in the repayment of a stabilization fund loan used for the new salt shed.

Approved: Capital expenditures for emergency services equipment, municipal contract for waste management, and municipal contract for website hosting.
Town Crier Episode 19 (2/15/2026)

Westminster MA Update with Town Crier Episode 19

Listen to the entire podcast from Stephanie Lahtinen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Westminster MA Town Crier Episode 19

Town Crier Episode 19 provides a comprehensive update on municipal affairs in Westminster, Massachusetts, for February 2026. Hosted by Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen, the episode features an introductory interview with Police Chief Matt Lamay, who discusses his transition from a long career in Fitchburg to leading Westminster’s department. The Chief addresses critical modern law enforcement issues, including recruitment hurdles, the loss of part-time officers due to state reforms, and his new bi-weekly public information bulletin.

Additionally, the podcast introduces a Select Board meeting recap segment, covering the formation of a committee for a new municipal complex and ongoing FY2027 budget reviews. Episode 19 also details upcoming February vacation activities for families and information regarding the Citizens Caucus for local elections. To encourage civic participation, Lahtinen concludes by inviting residents to a new volunteer appreciation breakfast aimed at fostering collaboration among town committees.
Prison Mitigation – Zlotnik (2/13/2026)

State Representative Zlotnik Urging Restoration of Prison Mitigation Funds.

Press Release February 13, 2026

GARDNER, MA – Representative Jonathan Zlotnik (D-Gardner) joined colleagues in the House of Representatives and State Senate to urge the Department of Public Health to use state funding for a competitive grant for communities impacted by the loss of prison mitigation funds.

Prison mitigation funds are funds allocated in the annual state budget for municipalities that host Department of Correction facilities. The funding helps these host municipalities cover the additional costs incurred by hosting a correctional facility and allows for the continuation of providing essential services to the residents of the community.

In recent years, prison mitigation funding provided to the City of Gardner has fluctuated. In FY2013, the City received $111,210.26 in prison mitigation funding from the Commonwealth. By FY2020, prison mitigation funding to the City increased to $171,457.67. However, prison mitigation funding has decreased in recent years. In FY2024, the City received $143,694.00 and this amount increased to $149,502.32 in FY2025.

“While the state pays the City for direct costs like water and sewer, and there is coverage through insurance for certain other things, that is not the whole story. These funds were agreed to many years ago to both cover the costs of lost revenue as the state doesn’t pay local property taxes, and also for overall compensation for hosting a facility that most communities wouldn’t welcome,” stated Representative Zlotnik. “Prior to my time in office this fund had been cut. A lot of work went into restoring it, and it’s clearly time to renew that effort for future budgets. What Senator Cronin is proposing is a reasonable and responsible stopgap in the meantime.”

In FY2026, the line item funding the prison mitigation program was not included in the final budget signed by Governor Healey. In response to this potential funding gap, Representative Zlotnik joined a group of legislators from DOC facility host communities to sign onto a letter spearheaded by Senator John Cronin (D-Fitchburg) urging the Department of Public Health to utilize a one-time $5 million fund to help backfill the losses to communities that have relied on these prison mitigation funds in years past. The group of legislators is also committed to working together to restore the prison mitigation funding line item in the upcoming FY2027 state budget process.
This Week 2-13-26 (2/13/2026)

This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” covering Gardner for Friday, February 13, 2026

Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

In this week’s edition: Gardner PD Hires, Wachusett Business Incubator, Magnus Carlberg Interview, Apprenticeships in Public Construction, Automated External Defibrillators, History of American Art, Success of Gardner Public Schools, School Committee, Report: MA Tops in Education, Mystery Man Behind the Laptop, Environmental Issues, Interview: Dr. Katherine Fitzgerald on Addiction, Presidents’ Day, Washington’s Birthday, MA Historic Landmarks, Report: Foods from 50 States, Library, Cable, Senior Center, Auditor Search, Healthcare Breakthroughs, U.S. Infrastructure Evolution, Upcoming Meetings.

Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
Economic Development 2-13-26 (2/13/2026)

Infrastructure, Regulatory Updates, Grant-Funded Projects Among Topics at Lengthy Economic Development Committee Meeting.

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Development 2-13-26

Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met on Friday, February 13, 2026 and focused on municipal infrastructure and regulatory updates. Officials discussed several state and federally funded projects, including utility upgrades in South Gardner, the construction of the Greenwood Memorial Pavilion, and ongoing developments at Maki Park. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the City of Gardner Master Plan and various grant applications aimed at improving downtown mobility and pedestrian safety. Additionally, the committee considered a proposal to move signage regulations from zoning to general ordinances to reduce “red tape” for local businesses. The session emphasizes the city’s strategic efforts to utilize outside funding for community growth while streamlining administrative processes for developers.
Zlotnik 2-11-26 (2/11/2026)

Billls pass Massachusetts House regarding the Apprenticeships in Public Construction and Heart Health at Sporting Events , both on a 154-1 vote. Now on to the MA Senate.

State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik Announces the House Passage of Bills Regarding Apprenticeships in Public Construction and Heart Health at Sporting Events

Press Release:

BOSTON, MA – Representative Jonathan Zlotnik (D-Gardner) joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing bills regarding apprenticeships in public construction and requiring automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at facilities that host sporting events.

Looking to sustain the future of the state’s trades workforce, H.4994-An Act relative to preparing apprentices in the Commonwealth, was passed by the House of Representatives in a 154-1 vote. The bill requires that public construction projects that cost at least $10 million to use apprentices. It would also implement a scaled increase in percentage of all hours worked on these public construction projects to be performed by apprentices, culminating in 15% of all hours after four years. Further, the bill would require apprentices in the Commonwealth to be registered in programs approved by the Division of Apprentice Standards and employed in compliance with any ratios implemented by the Division.

In addition to the apprenticeship bill, the House of Representatives also passed H.4993-An Act requiring automated external defibrillators at sporting events in a 154-1 vote. The bill requires public stadiums, sporting centers, gymnasiums, and other facilities that play host to athletic events to have at least one AED device on site during any events. While there have been regulations requiring AED devices in public schools, there was previously no requirement for AED devices at facilities hosting sporting events in the Commonwealth. The bill not only promotes heart health for spectators at these sporting events, but also represents a way to combat incidents of sudden cardiac arrest.

Following their passage in the House of Representatives, H.4994 and H.4993 will now advance to the State Senate for debate and passage.
Finance 2-10-26 (2/11/2026)

Finance Committee: Fiscal Transparency, Non-Union Compensation, Salt Shed Repayment Meeting Focus

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

The Gardner City Council Finance Committee meeting on February 10, 2026, centered on fiscal transparency, the rectification of non-union compensation schedules, and the ongoing management of the Salt Shed project repayment. The most critical development involved a thorough debate regarding the repayment of the $625,000 appropriation from the city’s stabilization account for the Salt Shed project. Committee members expressed concerns over the transparency of the process, specifically the use of project funds for unrelated vehicle chassis and the slow pace of repayment relative to interest losses. The committee ultimately moved forward with a resolution to codify the council’s expectation that any free cash deposits to stabilization exceeding 5% be credited toward the Salt Shed repayment.

Additional key outcomes included recommendations for five-year service contracts for waste collection and website hosting, the approval of free cash appropriations for Fire and Police department equipment, and updates to the non-union compensation schedule to ensure parity for temporary employees and specific department heads.
Westminster – Town Crier Episode 18 (2/10/2026)

Westminster Releases Town Crier Episode 18

Westminster Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen speaks about the January Storm, has some winter safety suggestions, and speaks about the upcoming budget process in the latest edition of the town’s podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Westminster Town Crier – Episode 18

Lahtinen recaps the last major winter storm, reporting that Westminster got 24 inches of snow. The Fiscal Year 2027 Budget process has begun. The Select Board will maintain a bi-monthly meeting cadence, which is expected to increase to three meetings per month during March and April to finalize the Annual Town Meeting warrant and the budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

To increase transparency, the Town Crier podcast will debut a “Select Board Meeting Recap” segment in its next episode. This segment aims to provide context on appointments, payroll authorizations, and ongoing policy issues for residents unable to attend meetings .
City Auditor Recommendation (2/8/2026)

Here’s the actual vote: Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Butler explained her auditing approach emphasizing “professional skepticism” and independence. Butler advocates for transparency and “no surprises”, citing instances where she reported internal policy bypasses (e.g. shipping items without production orders.)

City Auditor Search Committee to Make Recommendation to Gardner City Council

At its next meeting of February 17th (meeting Tuesday due to the President’s Day holiday) the Gardner City Council will vote on the recommendation of the City Auditor Search Committee. Three interviews were held at meetings on February 4th and 5th. Karen Butler received the unanimous recommendation of Councilors Heglin, Kazinskas, Dernalowicz, Mack, and Heath. Gardner Magazine is providing the combined AUDIO of both meetings which has all the interviews. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Auditor Search Committee Meetings with Interviews on February 4, 2026 and February 5, 2026

Candidate Analysis: Karen Butler – 20 years of experience in budget management and auditing, primarily in the private sector with a focus on technical data analysis. Has managed budgets up to $50 million and overseen staff sizes up to 23 employees. Demonstrated a history of identifying operational inefficiencies such as implementing a $1500 heat-sealing solution at a previous employer that saved $100,000 in packing tape expenses. Described as a “technical” auditor who uses SQL to dive into data, identify duplicate payments, and assess risks. Expert-level Excel user. Demonstrated specific knowledge of Massachusetts General Laws on financial statements, procurement, and capital expenditures.
Infrastructure (2/6/2026)

Complete page many reports, infographics, video, and podcasts relating to American Infrastructure. View the complete page, CLICK HERE.

An Ambitious Gardner Magazine Report Project: Infrastructure Evolution of the U.S.

Gardner Magazine has prepared a page with many reports from different perspectives and topics relating to American Infrastructure. View the complete page, CLICK HERE.

You may also go directly to a specific report on the page: Status and Future Requirements of United States Infrastructure —–Beyond the Pothole: Why America’s 20th-Century Infrastructure is Failing a 21st-Century Reality —— A National Imperative: A Categorical Analysis of America’s Infrastructure Deficit ——Educational Primer: The Great Infrastructure Evolution —— Comparative Performance Review: U.S. Infrastructure in the Global Arena —— Strategic Impact Assessment: Socioeconomic Equity and the Future of American Infrastructure —— Revitalizing American Competitiveness: A Strategic Analysis of Infrastructure Financing Models —— The U.S. Infrastructure Evolution: A Strategic Timeline of Development, Decay, and Reimagination
Airport 2-4-26 (2/5/2026)

Lengthy Airport Commission Meeting Reveals Much of 2026 Agenda

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Airport Commission 2-4-26

The Gardner Airport Commission meeting on February 4, 2026, addressed critical infrastructure projects, budgetary oversight, and operational challenges. Key takeaways include:

• Infrastructure & Environment: Progress is being made on a comprehensive fencing plan required for an environmental assessment. This plan includes adjustments to protect Indigenous archaeological sites and accommodate glider operations. Additionally, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has offered to fund 100% of a new Vegetation Management Plan (VMP).

• Operational Integration: The Commission is evaluating a proposal from a Radio Control (RC) group seeking regular airport access. Significant concerns remain regarding liability, insurance, and potential scheduling conflicts with existing Department of Defense (DoD) drone research conducted by MIT and Lincoln Labs.

• Maintenance & Logistics: A new volunteer-based snowplow team has successfully managed recent heavy snowfall, though a policy debate persists regarding the airport’s responsibility for clearing private hangar entrances versus tenant obligations under low-cost leases.

• Governance Crisis: The Commission reached a 2-2 deadlock during a vote for the chairmanship. This leadership dispute reflects internal friction regarding term limits and the consistency of airport management.
Paying My Excise – original song (2/5/2026)

Gardner Magazine Releases “Paying My Excise” – original song to celebrate paying Excise Tax

Every year we get that excise tax bill. If we don’t pay it, they tack on interest and fees and it just gets ugly. For a little fun, we created the original song “Paying My Excise.” It’s silly, it’s goofy, it’s fun. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

POP-FUNK – Paying My Excise

In the City of Gardner, motor vehicle excise tax bills are due on Friday, March 6, 2026. By the way, if they don’t know your address, you’re still on the hook. So if you don’t get an Excise Tax Bill, call the Tax Collector’s office at (978) 630-4008 and tell them you need a bill and they will help you. They probably won’t sing the above song.

The City of Gardner posted: “Motor Vehicle Excise tax bills are due on Friday, March 6, 2026. According to MGL Chapter 60A, Section 2 “Failure to receive notice shall not affect the validity of the excise.” This means that even if you don’t receive the bill, you are still liable for paying the excise plus any accrued interest and fees. Bills are sent to addresses on file, at the Registry of Motor Vehicles, for vehicles that are registered or garaged in Gardner as of December 31, 2025. Please note, during the last few years a number of undeliverable bills were to residents in multi-family properties. This is a delivery issue with the U.S. Postal Service but residents should be aware that it could be a problem again this year. If you do not receive your bill, contact the Tax Collector’s office at 978-630-4008.“
Report: Inflation (2/1/2026)

For the complete page of reports on the History of Inflation in the United States, CLICK HERE.

Gardner Magazine Reports – The History of Inflation in the U.S.

In this comprehensive group of reports, Gardner Magazine reports on the complex history of inflation in the United States from the 23.7% spike right after World War I, the 1970s, and the 9.1% spike during the last administration. For the complete page of reports, CLICK HERE.

Listen to a “Deep Dive” on the issue with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – History of Inflation in the United States

Listen to a “DEBATE” regarding inflation on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Inflation in the United States

On the complete page of reports, we also have a video detailing the history of inflation in the United States, various reports, and some rather complex, but informative infographics.

Have a topic in mind which Gardner Magazine should cover in future reports? Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com or call our voicemail line at (978) 632-6324 and we’ll do our best to fulfill your request.

U.S. inflation history is characterized by periods of severe, war-driven volatility (1910s, 1940s), the “Great Inflation” of the 1970s, and a long era of low, stable prices from the 1980s until the post-pandemic surge in 2021–2022. Driven by monetary policy, supply chain shocks, and demand, inflation reached highs over 15% in 1980 and peaks near 9% in 2022. Key Eras in U.S. Inflation History: Early 20th Century & WWI (1913–1920): Rapid, sustained inflation followed the creation of the Federal Reserve and entry into WWI, with prices rising over 80% between 1916 and 1920.Deflation and WWII (1921–1940s): The economy experienced severe deflation during the Great Depression (e.g., -10.3% in 1932). WWII then sparked another wave of inflation.The Great Inflation (1965–1982): Caused by loose monetary policy, inflation began rising in the mid-60s, peaking at over 14% in 1980.The Great Moderation (1983–2019): After aggressive Fed interest rate hikes in the early 1980s, inflation stabilized at low levels, occasionally dropping due to recessions (e.g., 2008).Post-COVID Surge (2021–Present): Inflation hit a 41-year high of 9.1% in June 2022 due to supply chain disruptions, high demand, and fiscal stimulus. It has since eased, with core CPI at 2.6% in December 2025.
Finance 1-28-26 (1/31/2026)

Finance Committee Discusses Spending for Essential City Services.

The Gardner Finance Committee met on January 28, 2026. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 1-28-26

Reviewed was a request from the Gardner Fire Department for $35,200 to match a Federal grant of $330,000 for badly needed radios.

Also on the agenda: A direct replacement for a marked interceptor for the Gardner PD, an unmarked Hyundai to replace an aging 2012 Ford Taurus used for administrative and investigative purposes, and a pickup truck to serve as a mobile command vehicle, allowing officers to transport equipment like radar trailers and secure emergency scenes with cones and signs.

Also reviewed: Curbside Waste and Recycling contract with E.L. Harvey providing the most reasonable option out of 4 responses received and Website Hosting with Civic Plus, the current vendor, the only one responding.

Noted: City is already projecting a deficit of $175,000 to $185,000 in its snow and ice removal budget. The Mayor provided an update on the boiler issues at Gardner City Hall, revealing that City Hall had lacked adequate carbon monoxide detector and had no smoke detectors (only heat detectors) and is taking immediate steps to install what’s needed.

Also addressed: Internet outages: The committee discussed a problem where internet service was shut off at four city locations: two at City Hall, one at the DPW, and one at the Youth Center. The cause was identified as a failure to pay bills over a period of time. To prevent future service disruptions that halt city business, the Mayor announced a plan to implement a new system for tracking and managing bills. A concrete example of this approach is consolidating the city’s 40 separate cell phone bills into a single, streamlined account, making payments easier to manage and harder to miss.
Capital Improvements – January (1/31/2026)

This article covers the meeting of January 21st in which the focus was on the immediate year ahead. Gardner Magazine previously published an article focusing on the 5 year Plan. It includes an infographic featuring $88 million in projected needs and a “Deep Dive”. Here’s a link to that article, CLICK HERE.

Capital Improvements Committee Meets and Discusses “The Big List”

The Gardner Capital Improvements Committee met on January 21st and the meeting video was just made available so we are covering it now. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Capital Improvement Committee 1-21-26

The infographic below is a helpful summary of the critical needs, mandates, and strategic investments amidst deferred maintenance.

Some key takeaways: A new fire truck costs a million dollars and takes an average of 2 to 4 years to arrive. It’s not just about finding the money, it’s also about managing incredibly long lead times and planning ahead. And an interesting example of how to build a “new” ambulance for half the price by mounting the existing patient compartment which is still in solid condition on top of a brand new truck chassis, saving $250,000. While the elevator in Gardner City Hall is on the list to be replaced, repairs on it have been difficult as replacement parts have had to be custom-manufactured from scratch due to the elevator’s age. The Keyes Road culvert is in poor condition and requires a full replacement at a cost of $2 million – otherwise 60 families could be stranded. And rather than leaping forward on building a new fire station, Fire Chief Gregory Lagoy is requesting a study so the City gets the right building. Bottom line overall: $20 million in needs versus a $4 million spending target. That’s why the City of Gardner pursues every single grant possible.
Senior Moments (1/30/2026)

Gardner Mayor Nicholson and Executive Aide Ryan Egan Appear on Senior Moments with Mike Ellis

Senior Center Director Mike Ellis has a cable show which runs on Cable Channel 8 and reaches those who have cable service in Gardner. Gardner Magazine is making the AUDIO of the interview available to our readers. (The show is not uploaded to YouTube like other City items) Appearing on the show: Mayor Michael Nicholson and Executive Aide Ryan Egan. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Senior Moments with Mike Ellis, Michael Nicholson, and Ryan Egan

Host Mike Ellis sat down with Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson and Executive Aide Ryan Egan to discuss the complexities of the municipal budget process. The conversation highlights the administration’s focus on transparency, explaining how tax dollars are strategically allocated to essential services like education, infrastructure, and public safety. Mayor Nicholson describes the city’s Master Plan, which aims to revitalize the community through innovative housing solutions, such as tiny homes and accessory units, and the repurposing of abandoned school buildings. The guests also explore how regional partnerships and creative problem-solving are overcoming challenges in transportation and water system maintenance. The discussion also emphasizes valuable resources for seniors, including the tax work-off program and free tax preparation services.
Presidents Desk 1-29-26 (1/30/2026)

This explainer video summarizes the key takeaways in about 5 minutes. Watch right out of the page.

Council President George Tyros Issues First Monthly Review – FULL COVERAGE

Gardner City Council President George Tyros issued his first monthly review at the end of January 2026. Complete text on PDF, CLICK HERE. The Chair Man and the Chair Lady have a “Deep Dive” talking about it. (and we have to teach them how to say “Ovila Case” Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Council President George Tyros January Review discussion

This article goes over the key activities and strategic priorities of the Gardner City Council for January 2026, as outlined in the Council President’s monthly update.

The central theme of the new session is a reinforced commitment to transparency and accountability. Key developments include the unanimous re-election of the Council President, strategic reorganization of council committees with new leadership appointments, and the passage of a significant procedural rule change aimed at increasing scrutiny of agenda items.

The Council also formally concluded its involvement in the Maki Park Project, securing confirmation from the Nicholson Administration that the project is complete and will require no further funds. Concurrently, new funding was secured through state grants for improvements to Ovila Case Playground.

At the first meeting of the new session on January 5th, the Council voted unanimously to re-elect the incumbent Council President for another term. A primary task for the President was the organization of the Council’s committees, described as the “workrooms” where substantive work is conducted before items reach a full vote.

The appointments were designed to incorporate a mix of new and experienced members. Notably, new Chairs were appointed to lead the Public Welfare, Public Service, and Public Safety committees to foster greater cross-departmental knowledge within the Council.

President’s Rules Proposal: The Council President’s proposal for this session centered on two main objectives: 1. Strengthening the Economic Development Committee to facilitate more robust discussions on local economic growth. 2. Improving Agenda Preparation by providing the Clerk’s Office with additional lead time, ensuring meeting agendas are accurate, professional, and clear for the public. Heglin Amendment for Increased Deliberation Councilor Brad Heglin introduced an amendment to the rules designed to provide more time for review and due diligence. • The Rule: The amendment requires that Committees must meet twice on any given item before it can be brought to the full Council for a formal vote. • Rationale: Councilor Heglin argued the rule would give Councilors more time to review items, ask pertinent questions, and identify potential mistakes.• Support and Passage: Councilor Paul Tassone endorsed the proposal, calling it “Common Sense.” The amendment was subsequently adopted by a decisive 10-1 vote of the Council.

The Gardner City Council meets on the first and third Monday of the month at 7:30pm in the City Council Chamber. Meetings are broadcast live on Comcast cable channel 8, are available for livestreaming, are uploaded to YouTube, and the AUDIO is published on Gardner Magazine.
Update 1-30-26 (1/29/2026)

End of January Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Listen to the Update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke at length about the storm which blanketed the Chair City with snow.

The Update contains timely and essential information about city operations, public safety, and upcoming events. Here is information about the key happenings in Gardner.

Spotlight on Public Works: Understanding Gardner’s Snow Removal Operations: DPW crews worked a continuous 42-hour shift, from 9:00 a.m. Sunday to 3:00 a.m. Tuesday, to manage the storm. A team of 30 DPW plow drivers was deployed, each assigned to a specific, pre-planned route. Crews are responsible for plowing and maintaining all 100 miles of city roads. It takes an average of three hours for a plow to complete its assigned route one time..

Thanks to the new salt shed, the city currently has 1,500 tons of salt on hand. Unlike several surrounding communities that issued advisories after running out of salt, Gardner’s new shed ensures a consistent supply, keeping our roads safer. A single, city-wide salt application requires approximately 100 tons of salt.

Based on feedback from the plow drivers, here are two critical ways you can help ensure safety for everyone during snow removal operations: • Do Not Pass the Plows: Driving behind a plow means the road ahead has not yet been cleared and is not safe for travel. Passing is dangerous for you and for our drivers, who are focused on the difficult task of clearing the road. • Do Not Throw Items at Plows: We understand the frustration of having a freshly shoveled driveway blocked by a passing plow. However, throwing shovels or other objects at the trucks is extremely hazardous and puts drivers at risk.

On January 29th, the Gardner Fire Department demonstrated its professionalism and skill during a two-alarm fire at the 123 Grow Daycare on West Broadway. Thanks to their prompt and effective response, the situation was handled as safely as possible. While the building was unfortunately a loss, we are profoundly grateful that no one was injured. This positive outcome is a direct result of the dedication and expertise of our Gardner firefighters.

Deadlines: Excise tax bills will be mailed to residents during the month of February. Per Massachusetts state law, you are responsible for paying the bill even if you do not receive it due to a change of address. I Dog licenses for 2026 are now available and must be registered by March 31st to avoid fines.

Community Calendar & Engagement Opportunities: “Love to Empower” Gift Card Drive ◦ Date: February 1 – 14 Help reduce financial barriers for domestic violence survivors. The Gardner Police Department, Gardner Community Action Team, and partners are collecting gift cards of $10 or more. ◦ Drop-off Locations: Gardner Police Department, City Hall Health Department, Sculpt Studio. —-• Holy Family Academy “Super Bowl” Soup Contest ◦ Date: Sunday, February 1 | 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ◦ Location: Lower Church Hall of Holy Rosary Church ◦ Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for students. ◦ Description: Sample a variety of soups and vote for the winner in this fun community contest.• School Vacation Week Activities ◦ Date: Week of February 16 A wide range of activities will be available for students, including programming at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library, free skate times at the Gardner Veterans Skating Arena, and outdoor opportunities at The Lodge at Dunn Pond. The Gardner Community Youth Center will also offer extended hours (12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.) for youth in grades 7-12. ————- • Peace Corps Through the Decades Presentation ◦ Date: Tuesday, February 25 | 6:00 p.m. at Levi Heywood Memorial Library Local resident Arthur Young, one of the first Peace Corp volunteers, will share his experiences in honor of the organization’s 65th anniversary.• Theatre at the Mount: “Young Frankenstein” ◦ Dates: February 27-28 & March 6-8 Gardner Museum Season Reopening ◦ Date: Wednesday, March 4 | 1:00 p.m. ◦ 2026 Flower Pot Sponsorship Program ◦ Deadline: Sponsorships are $150 until March 1, after which the price increases to $200. Contact: For more information, please contact Iris in the Community Development department at imesser@gardner-ma.gov or 978-991-5840.

An Update on the Recent City Hall Closure: The Mayor addressed the recent unexpected closure of City Hall following last week’s snowstorm. This decision was made to ensure the safety of all city employees and the public. Following the storm, a carbon monoxide detector was found to be going off inside the building. The Gardner Fire Department and the City Building Commissioner were immediately called to investigate. Their investigation revealed a significant safety hazard: a natural gas leak caused by a crack in one of the building’s boilers and a separate issue with a second boiler .To protect employees and the public, the decision was made to keep the building closed until all necessary repairs were completed by the city’s contractor. The building remained closed until it was fully vented and had passed all necessary safety checks to confirm there were no further gas leaks.
Boiler Smiling (1/29/2026)

Gardner City Hall Open for Business Again

Gardner City Hall is open again after being closed due to a boiler issue. The boiler is smiling once again.

Yes, Gardner City Hall is open once again on Thursday, January 29, 2026 after being closed all week so far, first due to the storm and then due to the boiler issue. Does anyone know what the name of the boiler is? Gardner Magazine will let you know when we find out.
Boiler Issue Continues (1/27/2026)

Boiler Issue Keeps City Hall Closed Another Day – Tractors Deployed – Workers Thanked

From the City of Gardner: “Due to maintenance issues with the boiler at City Hall, City Hall will be closed on Wednesday, January 28th, 2026. All other City buildings will be open as normal.”

Gardner Mayor Nicholson also posted: “The DPW will be sending out 5 sidewalk tractors this evening to work to clear the sidewalks within a mile and a half around the schools in the City. Once these sidewalks are done, plans will be made for the other sidewalks around the city and the snow around the downtown and South Gardner Center at a later date.” Relating to the storm in the City, the Mayor stated, “Thank you to all of our DPW Workers, public safety personnel, National Grid crews, and everyone who worked to keep everyone safe during the storm. Our DPW crews were called in at 9am on Sunday and finally got to go home at 3am this morning- 42 hours later, with some staying until noon to check on all of the equipment. Gardner is blessed to have such a dedicated crew with such a strong work ethic and commitment to the City and its residents.”
Human Trafficking (1/26/2026)

Gardner Magazine Reports: Human Trafficking

The U.S. Justice Department has released a report on the decade between 2013 and 2023 showing an increase in prosecutions for crimes relating to commercial sex acts and involuntary servitude. Here is the official report from the U.S. Department of Justice on PDF, CLICK HERE.

Gardner Magazine has prepared a complete page on the issue, covering it from various aspects. For the complete page, CLICK HERE.

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady have a “Deep Dive” explaining it all. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Human Trafficking

Max and Maxine Rogers argue over whether the numbers represent a genuine escalating crisis. Max takes the position that the numbers represent a genuine escalating crisis. Maxine Rogers takes the position that we need a correction in how we count with her opinion based on legislation from 2015. They also discuss the open border during the Biden Administration. Max argues the open border is responsible, Maxine argues data doesn’t prove that. It is an interesting debate. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Human Trafficking
Statement 1-25-26 9pm (1/25/2026)

Statement from Michael Nicholson 9:07pm January 25, 2026 – The Mayor speaks about the storm . Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Statement 1-25-26 (1/25/2026)

Statement from Michael Nicholson 4:30pm January 25, 2026 – The Mayor speaks about the storm and about a power outage on a Gardner street. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson 1-25-26
The Audit Dispute (1/24/2026)

Gardner Magazine has a complete page on the Massachusetts Audit dispute with various narratives, infographics, a “Deep Dive”, and a “Debate”. For the complete report and page, CLICK HERE.

Gardner Magazine Report, “Deep Dive” and “Debate” – The Audit – A Massachusetts Standoff

Gardner Magazine has a complete page on the Massachusetts Audit dispute with various narratives, infographics, a “Deep Dive”, and a “Debate”. For the complete report and page, CLICK HERE.

Listen to a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady explaining it all on any device. CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Massachusetts Audit

Listen to a “DEBATE” between Maxine Rogers and Max Rogers. Maxine argues that transparency is the absolute bedrock of democracy and the will of the voters should be honored. Max argues that the will of the voters doesn’t automatically override the constitution and that the resistance to the Audit is legally sound. An interesting discussion on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Massachusetts Audit – Max and Maxine Rogers

Publisher’s Note: WGAW Hotline Radio Host Steve Wendell interviewed the Massachusetts State Auditor on the program Saturday, January 24, 2026. For the article and AUDIO of the show so you can hear that interview, CLICK HERE.
Westminster – South St. Sentinel February 2026 (1/23/2026)

Westminster MA – February 2026

The Westminster South Street Sentinel, 25^th Edition, covers current and future happenings in the Town of Westminster. For the complete document on PDF, CLICK HERE.

Deep Dive with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady explaining what’s covered in the 25^th edition of the Westminster South Street Sentinel. Listen on any device.

DEEP DIVE – Westminster South Street Sentinel – February 2026

Debate with Max and Maxine Rogers: Can vibrant community spirit compensate for aging infrastructure? A Model of Modern Resilience and Growth or is it celebrating on a fragile foundation? So who wins the argument? A very interesting discussion. Listen on any device.

DEBATE – Westminster South Street Sentinel – February 2026
This Week 1-23-26 (1/23/2026)

This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” covering Gardner for Friday, January 23, 2026

Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.

This Week in the Chair City 1-23-26

In this week’s edition: Zoning Board of Appeals, City Council Auditor Search, Greater Gardner Relay for Life, Cold and Snow in upcoming storm, Gardner MA Municipal Telephone Guide, Gardner PD Mission Statement, Commodore as Monty Tech Representative, Gardner City Council, Major Drug Bust, MA Property Tax Bills, Open Burning Season, HUGE Gardner Magazine History Project, Original Song – Waiting for the Storm, Upcoming Meetings

Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
Joint Convention 1-20-26 (1/21/2026)

Joint Convention Chooses Commodore as Monty Tech Representative

The Gardner City Council and Gardner School Committee met together on January 20, 2026 for the purpose of selecting a local resident to represent the City of Gardner on the Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School District. The primary objective of the meeting was to select a local resident to represent the city on the Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School District Committee. Listen to the short meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Joint Convention 1-20-26

Following a formal roll call and the reading of legal notices, Eric Commodore was the sole individual nominated for the four-year position. The legislative body conducted a unanimous vote, resulting in thirteen members choosing Commodore to fill the vacancy. Upon his selection, the appointee was immediately administered the oath of office to begin his service to the vocational school district.
Council 1-20-26 (1/21/2026)

Procedures – Appointments – Committees Topics of Gardner City Council Meeting.

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

The Gardner City Council met on January 20, 2026. The most significant actions involved a comprehensive overhaul of the council’s internal operating rules, a contentious debate regarding the term length for the City Solicitor, the rejection of a mayoral proposal to declare a municipal lot as surplus, and the formal acceptance of a state grant for park renovations.

Procedural Reform: The Council adopted a significant amendment to its rules, establishing a new “two-meeting” requirement for items before standing committees. This measure is intended to prevent rushed decisions, ensure materials are complete and accurate before reaching the full council, and allow for greater public and councilor review.

Mayoral Appointment Scrutiny: The Mayor’s appointment of a City Solicitor for a three-year term drew criticism from councilors who argued the term should be limited to one year to align with mayoral terms. A motion to amend the city ordinance to this effect is planned for a future meeting.

Preservation of City Assets: The Council followed the Finance Committee’s recommendation to take no action on declaring a municipal parking lot on West Lynde Street as surplus property. The committee cited the lot’s strategic value for downtown development as a primary reason for its preservation.

Community Development Funding: The Council unanimously passed a resolution to accept a $252,000 state grant from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. These funds are designated for the reconstruction of playground equipment at Ovila Case Playground.

Administrative Deadline Changes: A change to Rule 14 was approved, requiring that all committee reports be submitted to the City Clerk by noon on the Wednesday preceding a regular meeting. This is intended to provide the clerk’s office with an adequate “buffer” to prepare agendas.

Adoption of the “Two-Meeting” Rule Amendment: The most significant change was an amendment proposed by Councilor Heglin to add a new rule (designated as Rule X), which states: “no standing committee or subcommittee of a standing committee or the committee of the council as a whole shall vote to refer any item to the council which has not already appeared on the agenda of that committee at a previous meeting.”

Councilor Heglin’s Arguments: The councilor provided three primary reasons for the amendment:

1. Completeness and Accuracy: To combat a trend of “far too many items that were incomplete, had errors, or had missing information,” establishing a best practice for diligence.

2. Increased Review Time: To provide councilors and the public more time to review materials, given that council positions are not full-time roles, and to encourage city departments to submit items with more lead time.

3. Enhanced Contemplation: To create a “standard stop gap” allowing for more thoughtful deliberation and preventing situations where items are referred back from a full council meeting for further review.

Supporting Councilors: Councilor Kazinskus supported the rule, noting it reinforces the principle that items should be fully vetted in subcommittee first and prevents items from being rushed through in a single committee meeting. He stated, “this makes it known that if you’re going to submit something to a subcommittee it’s going to be on there for at least one agenda before that item is considered.” ◦ Councilor Mack agreed it was a necessary “stop gap measure,” observing that “in the last year there has been an increasing amount of items brought before standing committee meetings and the council that are incomplete, have multiple errors, and have been rushed through.” ◦ Councilor Tassone called the amendment a “common sense best practice” and a “no-brainer.” • Councilor Brooks noted the irony of being asked to vote on the amendment just ten minutes after receiving it. Councilor Kazinskas countered that this is standard procedure for amendments and that the item’s scope—an internal rule—was fundamentally different from a complex city ordinance.

The appointment of Vincent Pusateri to the position of City Solicitor was for a term expiring January 5, 2029. This represents a change from what was described as a historical one-year appointment to a three-year term. Councilor Brooks raised a strong objection to the three-year term, arguing it is “not good in that it will overlap terms of mayors.” Brooks stressed the importance of allowing each new mayor to select their own City Solicitor, citing historical precedents. Councilor Brooks announced his intention to “put forth an amendment to the ordinances to put it back to a one-year appointment” at the next meeting. Councilor Tassone echoed these concerns, stating, “I do agree that the mayor should have the ability to appoint the city solicitor for the term that the mayor is in office.” Tassone found it “odd that we’re you know we’re going a year past the elected term for the mayor.” Mayor Nicholson was called upon to explain the reasoning for the three-year term. He cited Section 3-2 of the ordinance code, which states, “unless otherwise stated the appointment term shall be 3 years.” The Mayor explained that an interpretation of this rule led to the three-year term, as the ordinance for the City Solicitor does not specify a different term length. Mayor Nicholson contrasted this with the Assistant City Solicitor position, for which the ordinance explicitly states the appointment shall be “for no more than one year.”
Tax Bills FY 26 (1/20/2026)

Gardner Magazine also has a “Deep Dive” on Property taxes in the area and a discussion of MA property tax extremes. Listen on any device.

DEEP DIVE – Fiscal Year 2026 Property Taxes

The “DEBATE” on area property taxes with Max and Maxine Rogers is very interesting. Listen on any device, CLICK HERE.

DEBATE – Fiscal Year 2026 Property Taxes

For data from the State of Massachusetts, CLICK HERE. For Massachusetts Law about property taxes, CLICK HERE.

A Gardner Magazine Report: Average Property Tax Bills by Community in Massachusetts

For Fiscal Year 2026: In the State of Massachusetts, the lowest average single family property tax bills are in Hancock MA at $835. 2^nd lowest is Hancock MA at $1661. 3^rd lowest is Florida at $2006. 4^th lowest is nearby Erving at $2772. For the complete list sorted from lowest to highest, CLICK HERE for pdf (Data from State of MA) A few towns including Royalston did not have data listed. Most area communities use a single tax rate, meaning the same rate per thousand for all classifications including residential, commercial, industrial, and personal property. The reason: A single tax rate is more welcoming to business and industry.

In the area: Athol is the lowest at $3,924. Gardner comes in at $5,052, slightly lower than the nearby City of Fitchburg and considerably lower than the nearby City of Leominster. Some examples are listed below: Keep in mind that a tax rate by itself does not give you enough information as you must take the combination of the rate per thousand the the average assessed property valuation to arrive at the actual figure. For example, if you had a tax rate of 1 dollar per thousand but each home was worth a trillion dollars, you’d still have a whopper of a tax bill.

In the region: Here are some average Single Family Property Tax Bills sorted lowest to highest: Athol – $3,924, Springfield – $4,254, Templeton – $4,490, Winchendon – $4,720, Phillipston – $4.724, Warwick – $4,795, Hardwick – 4,852, Oakham – $4,888, Orange – $4,910, Hubbardston – $4,947, New Salem – $4.951, Leicester – $5,026, Gardner – $5,052, Barre – $5,053, Fitchburg – $5, 189, Worcester – $5,446, Westminster – $5,992, Clinton – $6,038, Greenfield – $6,063, Ashby – $6,225, Ashburnham – $6,246, Leominster – $6,489, Lunenburg – $7,444, Sterling – $7,535, Boston – $7,627, and of course many higher including the top of the list with Brookline at $26,237 and Weston at $26,313.
The History Project (1/19/2026)

Announcing the Gardner Magazine “History Project”

Gardner Magazine has launched the “History Project” , creating rich HISTORY pages for each of the communities on this website. Each page l contains vast Textual information, Numerous and Informative Infographics, and a “Deep Dive” podcast which explains the history of that particular community.

There’s straight history. There’s lots of facts. There’s interesting stories. It makes history fun. The pages are completed with all 19 towns done as of January 20, 2026. Completed pages include: Ashburnham — Ashby — Athol —, Barre — Gardner —, Hardwick — Hubbardston — New Salem — Oakham — Orange — Petersham — Phillipston — Princeton —- – Rutland — Royalston — Templeton — Warwick — Westminster — Winchendon

Did we miss something? Or should we add something to any of the pages? Let us know. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324.
Westminster – Town Crier 17 (1/15/2026)

Town of Westminster Releases Town Crier Episode 17

In this podcast episode, Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen launches the 2026 season of The Town Crier by reflecting on the program’s inaugural year and outlining future municipal goals for Westminster, Massachusetts. The podcast has been utilized to provide information on local government operations for residents, while previewing critical upcoming milestones such as the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Planning and the Annual Town Meeting. Significant updates include a reduction in the property tax rate and the formation of a Strategic Staffinc Committee and ongoing renovations at the Old Town Hall. Lahtinen also invites community participation through photo submissions and listener feedback for the Town Crier to guide future topics. Listen to Episode 17 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Town Crier Episode 17 – Westminster MA

While there have been a total of 2000 downloads to the episodes through the town website, there have been tens of thousands of downloads through Gardner Magazine and thousands of LIVE listeners each episode through WGAW’s Hotline Radio Show and 1000 to 3000 additional listeners per episode by those who listen to the Hotline livestream after the program airs.
Finance 1-13-26 (1/15/2026)

Operational Concerns, Internet Outages, Council Rules Topics of Finance Meeting

The Gardner Finance Committee met on January 14, 2026. Gardner Mayor Nicholson and Councilors Alek Dernalowicz and Council President George Tyros addressed several municipal fiscal and operational concerns.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the repayment plan for the City’s Salt Shed regarding the Mayor’s plan to reimburse the stabilization fund for principal and lost interest.

Mayor Michael Nicholson also provided an in-depth explanation regarding recurring internet outages, attributing the issues to administrative billing errors and a lack of redundant service providers.

The Committee reviewed and approved updates to the City Council rules aimed at streamlining legislative deadlines and subcommittee jurisdictions. The members debated the potential disposition of municipal land on West Lynde Street with Councilor Brad Heglin expressing hesitation over losing public parking.

Finally, the meeting touched upon the future of City Facilities management and the formal confirmation of a significant monetary gift of over $10,000 from the Department of Public Works to the Community Action Committee. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 1-14-26
History of MA (1/14/2026)

Gardner Magazine Resource Page – History of Massachusetts

This page contains a number of resource reports and analyses, infographics, and AUDIO podcasts. Visit the page or go directly to a specific section using one of the links below.

Resource Reports: Historical Briefing — Boundary Disputes, — Beyond the Tea Party, 5 Surprising Truths That Redefine Massachusetts History,—The Architects of Massachusetts: A Profile of Key Historical Figures, — From Colony to Commonwealth – The Story of Revolutionary Massachusetts

Infographics: Historical Briefing — Boundary Disputes, — Beyond the Tea Party, 5 Surprising Truths That Redefine Massachusetts History,—The Architects of Massachusetts: A Profile of Key Historical Figures, — From Colony to Commonwealth – The Story of Revolutionary Massachusetts

For the Massachusetts History Resource page, CLICK HERE.
Z-Man Commentary (1/14/2026)

The Z-Man – A Commentary on the Works of Jonathan Zlotnik

Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel recently did an interview with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik entitled: “The Year Ahead” – CLICK HERE for article. Today’s commentary focuses on a man who some call the “Z-Man”, a sort of local Super Hero who does much behind the scenes for his local communities. The commentary is about Jonathan Zlotnik’s “magic” and some of what he has gotten done. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Z-Man Commentary by Werner Poegel

In the commentary: The $100,000 Hyphen in which the merger of the Gardner and Winchendon District Courts is saving $100,000 per year, the focus on the Student Opportunity Act to better fund the local schools, the advocacy for greater road funding, supporting facilities for our youth, and some huge housing projects. The Z-Man Superhero moniker may be a little over-the-top, but praise for Zlotnik’s work in his District is right on… Learn more in our interview entitled: “The Year Ahead” – CLICK HERE for article.
Hubbardston Interim (1/12/2026)

For more information about the Town of Hubbardston, please visit the website,, CLICK HERE

Hubbardston Chooses Interim Town Administrator

The Select Board vote is in and so is Sean Fitzgerald as the Interim Town Administrator for the Town of Hubbardston. At its first January meeting, the board voted unanimously to approve Fitzgerald’s appointment. Fitzgerald had previously served as the Town Administrator in Swampscott for 8 years, leaving there at end of 2024 his contract ended early. Fitzgerald’s first day was Tuesday, January 6^th.. Fitzgerald will hold the post until a permanent Town Administrator is hired, or until June 30^th unless his current agreement is extended. Pay rate is $70 per hour for 20-30 hours per week.

Selection Process: According to a Press Release by the Town of Hubbardston, the appointment followed a competitive recruitment process in which nine applicants submitted materials for consideration. After an initial review, four candidates were selected for interviews conducted by two Select Board members and two senior staff members. Based on those interviews, the panel recommended one finalist to the full Select Board. The Select Board expressed confidence that Mr. Fitzgerald’s experience and leadership will provide continuity and stability for town operations during the interim period.

Next Steps: As part of the permanent Town Administrator search process, applications for the Town Administrator Search Committee are due January 15th. Appointments to the committee are expected to be reviewed and voted on at the Select Board meeting scheduled for January 19th.
Inauguration 2026 (1/9/2026)

Overall, the Gardner Inauguration Ceremony on January 8, 2026 projected a vision of a city focused on pragmatic problem-solving, strategic investment, and regional leadership. Speakers consistently praised Gardner’s momentum, attributing its success to a results-oriented approach that prioritizes progress over political division.

FULL COVERAGE: – Gardner MA 2026 Inauguration

Gardner Massachusetts held its 2026 Ceremonial Inauguration on January 8, 2026. Many local, state, and even international leaders were in attendance. Listen to the complete event AUDIO here on any device. CLICK PLAY. (Nicholson speech and Tyros speech by themselves below.)

Inauguration 1-8-26

MC was Massachusetts Director of Rural Affairs Anne Gobi and State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik and Council President George Tyros also spoke. Gardner Mayor Nicholson, the entire City Council, and the 3 newly elected members of the School Committee were sworn in to office.

During his inaugural address, CLICK HERE Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson reviewed several key milestones such as educational advancements, housing reforms, significant infrastructure improvements, and more. The ceremony itself included musical performances by local choirs, a presentation of colors, and religious invocations from local clergy members. Throughout the proceedings, the common theme emphasized by officials was a commitment to fiscal discipline, transparency, and collaborative governance to ensure the community’s continued growth. The event concluded with a call for unity and a shared vision for Gardner’s future as the City navigates new economic challenges.

Copy of Mayor Nicholson’s entire speech on PDF, CLICK HERE

Nicholson speech 1-8-26

A Robust Portfolio of Accomplishments from the past 5 years were detailed in Nicholson’s Inaugural Address.

Mayor Nicholson gave a Five-Year Retrospective of Accomplishments: • Education:     ◦ Curriculum: Made civics and financial literacy graduation requirements.     ◦ Inclusivity: Conducted library audits to ensure diverse representation in school books.     ◦ Vocational Training: Created the Montachusett Vocational Partnership Academy with Monty Tech, a first-of-its-kind state program allowing students to graduate with both a high school diploma and trade credentials.     ◦ Facilities: Renovated Landry Auditorium, Lachance Gymnasium, Watkins Field athletic complex, and several varsity fields. • Housing and Development:    ◦ HOME Act: Passed a zoning ordinance to combat the housing crisis by allowing tiny homes, increasing accessory dwelling unit sizes, lowering parking requirements, and zoning over 25% of residential properties for multi-family development by right.     ◦ Blight Remediation: Remediated and sold several former factory sites including those at Rock, Stuart, West, and Leamy Streets and is finalizing sales of the former School Street and Helen Mae Sauter School sites for housing development. • Public Safety:     ◦ Police: Created specialty translator positions to assist in Spanish, Portuguese, and other languages.     ◦ Fire: Purchased two new fire engines, a heavy rescue truck, and two new ambulances, with a new ladder truck and another ambulance forthcoming. Provided every firefighter with a second set of turnout gear and EMS protective jackets. • Resident Services and Recreation:     ◦ Social Services: Reinstated the domestic violence advocate position as a full-time role and invested $150,000 in local food pantries.     ◦ Library: Increased hours at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library to 50 per week, including nights and year-round Saturdays.   ◦ Parks: Made substantial investments in every city neighborhood, including new equipment and a walking path at Ovila Case, new pickleball courts and a playground for young children at Bailey Brook Park, refurbished tennis courts, and upgrades to the Pulaski Dog Park.     ◦ Bike Trail: Extended the North Central Pathway around Crystal Lake. • Fiscal and Operational Management:     ◦ Grant Funding: Retained Keller Partners company, leading to the acquisition of over $52 million in grant funds.    ◦ Budgeting: The new Gardner Elementary School project was completed over $10 million under budget.

Mayor Nicholson spoke of Future Initiatives:

• Infrastructure: The South Gardner Infrastructure Improvement Project will break ground this year to move overhead wires underground and install new sidewalks and Victorian lighting. • Environmental Sustainability: Projects are planned to install solar panels on all city buildings and new EV fast chargers in public parking lots and parks. • Economic Growth:     ◦ Propose new ordinance amendments to ease restrictions on senior/student housing, commercial signs, and general business operations.     ◦ Create a “Pull Up a Chair Manual,” a step-by-step guide for entrepreneurs looking to open a business in Gardner. • Capital Investment: The surplus from the elementary school project is being reinvested into repairs at City Hall, a new community center, high school athletic locker rooms, and a new roof for the Gardner Middle School. The Mayor concluded with a call for continued collaboration, stating, “When others go to social media sites, we go to work. When others try to sew division, we break ground on progress. While others make noise, we make a difference.”

Council President Tyros spoke about rigorous financial oversight

George Tyros Speech 1-8-26

City Council President George C. Tyros underscored the Council’s commitment to rigorous fiscal oversight, particularly in anticipation of “significant fiscal headwinds” from shifting state and federal funding. He celebrated the unprecedented re-election of all 11 incumbent counselors as a public endorsement of their work, which has included reforms in economic development, housing, and city policy. Tyros noted that for the first time in at least 20 years, the fact that all 11 incumbent counselors won re-election is a mandate they “do not take for granted.” President Tyros affirmed the Council’s role as a “check and balance” dedicated to operational excellence and earning the trust of the electorate.Tyros highlighted several policy achievements from the past term: ◦ Reforming the economic development department for cost savings and better performance.     ◦ Leading on compensation modernization to retain long-serving employees.   ◦ Modernizing housing codes to support smart growth.     ◦ Updating the city’s sexual harassment policy, which had not been revised in decades. Council President Tyros paid tribute to the late Ron Cormier, the longest-serving counselor in the city’s history, whose passing left a void of institutional memory. Tyros stated, “We honor his legacy tonight by recommitting ourselves to the steady and honorable leadership he exemplified for 38 years.”
Year Ahead – Zlotnik 2026 (1/8/2026)

The Year Ahead –2026 – A Comprehensive Interview with Jonathan Zlotnik

Gardner Magazine spoke with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik on January 8, 2026. We review 2025 and we speak about the year ahead, 2026. Listen to the entire interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel and Jonathan Zlotnik took a look back at 2025 with some key achievements being a savings of $100,000 annually simply by effectuating the merger of the Winchendon and Gardner District Courts into the Winchendon-Gardner District Court, securing $10 million in infrastructure funding, and being involved in an important Veterans Housing project in Winchendon. 2026 Top priorities include education, the housing crisis, and infrastructure as is detailed more fully below and in a detailed infographic.

Gardner Magazine has prepared a briefing document with key themes and priorities from State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. CLICK HERE for PDF and a Report entitled: “the $100,000 Hyphen: 5 Lessons from Local Government, CLICK HERE for PDF — or — CLICK HERE to view the text in a separate page.

In 2025, significant achievements included securing over $10 million for water and sewer infrastructure in the district, championing a revised road funding formula that benefits rural communities, and advancing major youth service initiatives like “The Hub” in Winchendon and the Gardner Community Youth Center. A cornerstone project, the redevelopment of two Winchendon schools into 44 units of veterans’ housing, moved forward with approximately 90% state funding.

Looking ahead to 2026, Representative Zlotnik’s top priorities are twofold: ensuring the full and continued funding of the Student Opportunity Act to provide stable support for K-12 education, and aggressively addressing the regional housing crisis through state investment in redevelopment projects. Supporting priorities include ensuring the financial sustainability of Heywood Healthcare, continuing investment in youth services and infrastructure, and strengthening local food security systems. Throughout, Zlotnik contrasts the Massachusetts legislature’s track record of consensus-building with federal-level gridlock, underscoring a pragmatic approach to governance.
City Council 1-5-26 (1/6/2026)

Gardner City Council Organizes for New Year and Closes Out Maki Park Project

The Gardner City Council met on January 5, 2026 and unanimously reelected George Tyros as Council President. A significant portion of the session focused on a detailed report and presentation by Director of Community Development and Planning Jason Stevens on the Maki Park Project where Stevens apologized for past transparency failures and ADA Compliance issues, even though none were his fault as they occurred before he was Director. Officials confirmed that while the park now meets accessibility standards, final completion awaits minor welding delayed by winter weather. The financial history of the project was discussed. Council President George Tyros noted that he would have voted against the project if the final cost of over a half million dollars was disclosed at the inception of the process. Costs went far beyond the initial appropriation of $180,000. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 1-5-26

Praise for George Tyros: At the beginning of the meeting, Council Brad Heglin praised Councilor George Tyros for his performance in the role during the previous term, noting that he led with grace and impartiality and brought more oversight and accountability.

Absolute Clarity: To provide absolute clarity for both the City Council and the public, Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas asked Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson 3 questions. Here are the questions and the Mayor’s responses: 1. Is Maki Park now ADA complaint? – answer – Yes. 2. Once the final welding is done, is the project complete? – answer – Yes. 3. Will the Council be asked for any more money for the project? – answer – No. —– The infographic below highlights key issues of the Maki Park Project.
American Milestone (1/5/2026)

Throughout the year, Gardner Magazine will cover all of the celebration and events related to the 250th Birthday of the United States. We present an Extended Deep Dive and Debate on this page. Our full page has so much more. View the special page, CLICK HERE.

An American Milestone – Complete Coverage of Key Events in American History

Gardner Magazine has complete coverage of the upcoming American Milestone, the 250th birthday of the United States of America on July 4, 1776. We have created a special page with History reports, Deep Dives, Debates, an embedded explainer video, a complete Analysis of Enduring Events in American History, an original song called “An American Milestone”, and detailed historical infographics. The goal: Make History as interesting as possible while celebrating our nation’s birthday. View the special page, CLICK HERE.

An Extended Deep Dive on Events in American History with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady

DEEP DIVE – Events in American History

A Debate on American Events with Max and Maxine Rogers.

DEBATE – Events in American History

The complete page has History reports, Deep Dives, Debates, an embedded explainer video, a complete Analysis of Enduring Events in American History, an original song called “An American Milestone”, and detailed historical infographics. View the special page, CLICK HERE.
Debate – City Council Rules (1/1/2026)

City Council Rules – a Debate on the Balance Between Rigorous Deliberation and Instant Response

This Gardner Magazine debate with Max and Maxine Rogers concerns the official procedural framework governing the Gardner City Council. The rules establish administrative protocols for the legislative body including the scheduling of regular and special meetings, the special order of business and the duties of the Council President. Detailed regulations address the legislative process such as how ordinances are introduced, debated, and enacted, while also defining the scope of several standing committees. Also included, voting requirements, preservation of public records by the City Clerk and the conditions under which rules may be suspended or amended. Robert’s Rules of Order is designated as the ultimate authority for conduct, assuring a structured and transparent governance process for the City of Gardner. Here’s a copy of the Gardner City Council Rules updated as of February of 2025 (last year) and here’s the debate AUDIO which you can listen to on any device. CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – City Council Rules

We also have a “Deep Dive” on City Council rules which we first published in March of last year. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – City Council Rules
Capital Projects 2026 (1/1/2026)

A “Deep Dive” into the Gardner MA 5 Year Capital Improvement Plan FY 2027 to FY 2031

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the Gardner 5 Year Capital Improvement Plan. The various items will be discussed at an upcoming meeting of the Capital Improvement Committee on January 7th. Listen to the “Deep Dive” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Capital Improvement Plan

The 5 Year Plan documents over $88 million of needs on the list prioritized as Emergency, High, or Low. Gardner always attempts to cover expenditures with grant funds when possible. When funds are not available in a given year, the items simply wait. View the agenda for the upcoming meeting for all the details which are up for discussion, debate, and review. CLICK HERE for 5 Year Capital Improvement Plan PDF.

Below is a detailed infographic outlining the various topics under consideration.
The Year Ahead – 2026 – Nicholson (12/30/2025)

In this “Year Ahead 2026” Interview, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson outlines an ambitious agenda for building on a big year of progress in 2025. The interview itself and the infographic below demonstrate the specifics.

A Forward- Looking Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – The Year Ahead 2026

Listen to the entire interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

INTERVIEW – The Year Ahead 2026 with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

In an interview looking toward 2026, Mayor Michael Nicholson outlines an ambitious agenda for Gardner, Massachusetts, focused on infrastructure and community revitalizing. The city is prioritizing the South Gardner Village Center and Rear Main Street projects, which include modernizing electrical systems despite national supply chain delays. Nicholson highlights majorhousing reforms intended to encourage growth by reducing red tape and allowing for diverse options like tiny homes. The discussion also emphasizes the successful expansion of recreational spaces, such as the popular disc golf course at Bailey Brook Park, and the upcoming 250th anniversary of the nation. To fund these initiatives, the city relies on a high-performing grant-writing strategy that has secured millions for local improvements. The Mayor also speaks about education at Gardner Public Schools which is ahead of the national curve and provides both college and trade opportunities for high school students. Overall, the mayor aims to maintain the city’s economic momentum while preserving its unique character as a “City with a town’s heart.”
Hotline 12-27-25 (12/27/2025)

WGAW Hotline Radio Year-End Show Features Updates, Segments on Politics, and a Year in a Review

Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY

City of Gardner Update, Report, and Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Gardner Mayor Nicholson thanked everyone who participated in the Caroling with the Mayor video, the AUDIO of which was played Christmas Day morning on WGAW. The Mayor noted that some of the groups had practiced since August when the weather was hot. — A discussion ensued about snow removal, the 3 hour routes, that sidewalks within 1 ½ miles of a school are cleaned up by the City, that Businesses are responsible for the sidewalks in front of their locations, and Mayor Nicholson explained how the budget is planned for snow and ice removal — The status of codeRED was discussed — Nicholson gave a run down on the Trash Removal & Holiday Schedule — As far as the upcoming inauguration of City officials: Official Swearing in is on January 5^that 10am at City Hall with the Ceremonial Inauguration Thursday Jan. 8^th— City Council meets Monday, January 5^th, School Committee meets Tuesday January 6^th, — WGAW will be broadcasting the ceremonial Thursday Inauguration LIVE, The Levi-Heywood Memorial Library will be having a New Year’s Eve celebration. The Mayor wished everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Hotline featured a segment with Mike Urban on Massachusetts Politics. Urban notes that the Democrats have drifted far into Progressive territory and are living in an echo chamber so far from where they actually stand on the issues. — Steve Wendell speaks about the misuse of SNAP benefits and questioned why the legislature is blocking an audit. 15 percent of the Massachusetts population gets SNAP benefits,but the poverty rate in MA is only 10 percent. Wendell speaks about the illegal pot coming in to Massachusetts from farms in Maine owned by the Chinese. Wendell states that a lot of corruption is going on in Massachusetts. Wendell reminds everyone to feed the birds.

A Mayor’s December Update with Michael Nicholson recapping various schedules, issues, and events.

A special Year in Review presentation and REPORT with Werner Poegel of Gardner Magazine going over the news which impacted the City of Gardner in the past year.
Boudreau out (12/27/2025)

Nathan Boudreau Out – Hubbardston Seeking Interim Town Administrator

The Hubbardston Select Board held a meeting on December 22, 2025, to address critical personnel transitions and municipal management issues. Following the negotiated resignation of the Town Administrator to be effective December 26, 2025, the board discussed hiring an interim replacement and established a formal search committee to find a permanent successor. To maintain daily operations during the holidays, they appointed an existing staff member as a temporary administrator and updated several job descriptions to include accounting and billing responsibilities. Beyond staffing, members reviewed an electricity aggregation program aimed at lowering resident utility rates and addressed a tax billing oversight regarding a previously approved fire truck purchase. The meeting concluded with plans for professional accounting consultations to rectify discrepancies in the town’s financial records.

Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Nathan Boudreau’s contract ended early by agreement on 12-26-25. Boudreau had been on Administrative Leave for reasons which were not stated to the public. The board will be seeking an Interim Town Administrator for 3-6 months with an estimated work load of 20 hours per week.
Poedm.net Update (12/26/2025)

Poedm.net provides AUDIO commentary, podcasts, DEEP DIVES, and DEBATES which cuts through partisanship, presents solutions with simple common sense, and preserves the dignity of all people.

Our National Podcast Site, Poedm.net Gets an Upgrade

Poedm.net was launched in 2024. Recently, the site was upgraded to include podcasts, Deep Dives, and even debates about the subject matter on the site. There are infographics on every page. POEDM.net provides Audio Commentary and Infographics for common sense solutions and dignity to all people.

The site features a wide array of AUDIO on dozens of pages to include Historical speeches and Historical AUDIO,

People issues covers the well-being of the community on such topics as addiction, religion, education, the drug epidemic and enforcement, health, recreation, public safety, domestic violence, and childcare.

The Planet: We speak about and cover the planet including the environment, climate change, tourism, pollution, and clean air & water.

The Government section focuses on the scales of justice, cooperation, Energy in America, the power of Government, transportation infrastructure, and states’ rights.

Policy: We discuss policy including border security, immigration, public assembly, freedom of speech, taxes, and foreign policy.

Behavior: The behavior section focuses on human interactions and society including crime, choices, civil rights, respect and generations, events and festivals, and violence.

Economics covers budget and finances, the trade deficit & imports/exports, inflation, homelessness, the aging population, and affordable housing.

Our Oversight area covers some powerful topics such as Time Travel, Building Standards, Policing, Information & Data Security, Space Exploration, and Extraterrestrials.

There’s hours and hours of podcasts. Listen on the site or download for later. While Gardner Magazine focuses on the Greater Gardner area, Poedm.net is about the Nation picture. Visit the website: Poedm.net
Boudreau on Leave (12/18/2025)

Hubbardston Town Administrator on Administrative Leave

Gardner Magazine has learned that Hubbardston Town Administrator Nathan Boudreau is on Administrative Leave. Gardner Magazine has reached out to Boudreau and offered to publish his statement on the matter. We will update this article should we get further information.

A total of 6 Hubbardston employees have recently left the town. We will report on this more as we have accurate information. Facts are important and we will not report speculation.

Update: Statement from Nathan Boudreau on December 19, 2025: “I can confirm that I am currently on paid administrative leave. Out of respect for the process, and the Town of Hubbardston, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time. I remain grateful for the opportunity to have served the community and to have worked alongside dedicated staff and elected officials, particularly on operational modernization efforts and the transition to the new municipal space at 48 Gardner Road. Any future professional work I may consider would be separate from municipal operations obligations and conducted in full compliance with all ethical and legal obligations.” – Nathan Boudreau
Development 12-12-25 (12/16/2025)

The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met on December 12th and focused on updates for numerous municipal projects. Those projects are seen in the infographic below.

Many Project Updates at Development Committee Rounds out Busy 2025

Listen to the lengthy meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Development 12-12-25

The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met on December 12th and focused on updates for numerous municipal projects. The Rear Main Street infrastructure project is at a stage which involves moving utility lines underground. There was a lengthy discussion on the Maki Park Project focusing on ADA compliance concerns and project financials. Director Stephens acknowledged that while the Maki Park solutions are not perfect, the park is ADA compliant subject to railings to be installed in Spring 2026 and the Building Commissioner’s approval of the stone dust currently being used.
The committee also reviews several Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) initiatives, such as the downtown phase 5 upgrades and the Greenwood Memorial Pavilion construction, while also addressing ongoing planning efforts like the Master Plan update and the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The director’s report emphasizes the city’s success in securing and efficiently utilizing numerous state and federal grants for these projects, specifically noting that taxpayer funds are minimized. View our infographic below. Click Image for a larger view.
Assessors Dec 2025 (12/15/2025)

Assessor Christine Kumar (Left) and Member Paulette Burns (right)

Another Super Exciting Board of Assessors Meeting in Gardner MA

Always exciting, the Gardner Board of Assessors met on Thursday, December 11th. The business-like 2 minute meeting focused on procedural matters including the acceptance of meeting minutes, the denial of a motor vehicle excise abatement due to timing issues relating to registration and cancellation. The meeting ends by going in to Executive Session because various abatement applications are not discussed in public. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Board of Assessors 12-11-25

About the Issue of Motor Vehicle Excise Abatements: Abatements are commonly granted for reasons such as selling, trading, or losing the vehicle, moving out of state, or if the assessment is incorrect. You are not eligible for an abatement if you cancel your registration but keep the vehicle, or if you move to a different Massachusetts town during the tax year. In that situation, you owe the excise to the town where you lived on January 1st.