UPDATE 11-16-24: Bruce Chester did not turn in papers by 5pm deadline yesterday. Therefore according to Mayor Michael Nicholson who appeared on WGAW’s Hotline Radio on Saturday November 16th, there will be no recount. Again, papers not turned in. There will be no recount.
Note: According to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, even if a District-wide was requested, the City of Gardner would still have to bear the total local cost. Facebook posts stating otherwise are not correct.
Recount of Zlotnik-Chester Race in Gardner to cost Taxpayers $45,000
The Gardner City Council Meeting Agenda and packet for Monday November 18, 2024 was amended to include a request from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson for $45,000 from FREE CASH to cover the costs of a hand recount of all 5 Gardner precincts. Recount is taking place at the request of candidate Bruce Chester who lost the race for State Representative for the 2nd Worcester District to Jonathan Zlotnik who has held the office for over a decade.
Mayor Michael Nicholson wrote, “The City has been made aware that Mr. Bruce Chester, who was a candidate for Representative to the General Court for the 2nd Worcester District in the November 5, 2024 election will be turning in petitions for a recount of the election for each Ward in the City.” Elections Division advised all costs to be born by the City. Mayor’s appropriation request covers the cost of having to recall all of the poll workers to do a hand recount of the ballots cast. View entire agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.
Original Unofficial Results from all Gardner Precincts
