Periodic Updates with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
- Update 8-2-25 (8/2/2025)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updates the City of Gardner in a 25 minute update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 8-2-25 Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with an Extensive Monthly Update following July 2025
Our graphic is intended to depict the many topics covered by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson in his monthly update. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 8-2-25 Topics covered in this month’s update: Streamflow measurements led to non-essential water ban in the City of Gardner —- Greenwood Pool will be open first two Sundays in August (July Sunday attendance was 70-80 people) — August Yard Waste Pickup August 5th through August 8th — City Hall closed for Labor Day on September 1, School starts September 2nd. — 12th Annual Greater Gardner Night Out is Thursday, August 7th from 5:30 to 8pm at Gardner High School — Weekend Concerts at Monument Park continue — Farmers Market Saturday August 16th at Gardner Community Center —- Theatre at the Mount announces performances of Grease — Gardner Senior Center Social Security 90th Birthday Party on Wednesday August 13th from 2-3pm — Gardner Elks Charity Ride is Saturday August 30th — Information on parking garage construction near 30 Pine — Thanks to those advocating for, and performing work at Gardner Dog Park — New Fire Trucks have fully arrived — Helen Mae Sauter School to be sold through RFP Process, City still will own Big Chair —– A walk through of paving projects —- Information on Rear Main Street Project — a thank you to departing Executive Aide Katie Jablonski.
- Nicholson 6-27-25 (6/27/2025)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson Updates the City
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updated the City of Gardner on June 27, 2025. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Topics Covered: Heat and cooling centers – Greenwood Pool – Movie filming in Gardner – Yard Waste Pickup – July 4th Hours – Food Truck Festival July 12th – Monument Park Concerts – Farmers Market – Ribbon Cuttings – National Night Out – Projects in the City – TriCity Takeover Day at WooSox.
- History 2020 – 2025 (5/29/2025)
2020 vs. 2025 
CLICK for Master Plan Article 5 Years Ago Til Now – A Look Back, Then to Now
It was a different time, over 5 years ago when the Gardner City Council met on May 4, 2020. Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas was serving as the Acting Mayor as well as the Council President. Current Council President George Tyros had a full beard and a head of hair. Alan Agnelli was the City Clerk. Gardner and the nation was dealing with the first 6 weeks of the Covid pandemic. The meeting was conducted via ZOOM. Let’s take you back to the challenges 5 years ago. Listen to the AUDIO on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Gardner City Council 5-4-2020 City Council – Fast forward 5 years: Some of the issues handled with difficulty then are handled more easily now with refined procedures. City Council rules and procedures have been updated and oversight has been increased.
The Mayor: On June 30, 2020 Michael Nicholson was elected Mayor of Gardner with over 69% of the vote to 29% of the vote for Scott Joseph Graves. (25.07% of registered voters cast a ballot) On November 2, 2021, Mayor Nicholson was reelected with 2255 votes to 576 votes for Peter T. Sargent. (22.41% of registered voters cast a ballot) On November 7, 2023, Mayor Nicholson was reelected with 2,459 votes to 1,189 votes for Kimberly Blake. (26.54% of registered voters cast a ballot) Nicholson is running for reelection in 2025. Mayor Nicholson gave his first update to the City on July 24 2020 after taking office on July 13th. It was about 5 minutes long. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Nicholson Introduction July 24 2020 A City Transformed in 5 Years
Fast forward almost 5 years to May 2025: The City of Gardner emerged post-pandemic fiscally stronger and more transparent to its citizens through the publication of meeting videos, agendas, and comprehensive packets of material. Dozens of new businesses came in to the City and a much higher percentage of storefronts are occupied. City leaders have spearheaded improved stewardship of City buildings and welcomed private investors who began a renovation renaissance in Downtown Gardner. Added parks such as Orpheum, Maki, and Park Street have contributed to appeal. A much higher percentage of roads have been paved annually in the last 5 years than in the decades before. Current Mayor Nicholson spearheaded updates to the City Charter and City ordinances. And now, the City of Gardner is working on its first Master Plan. SEE PREVIOUS ARTICLE.
- Nicholson Update 4-25-25 (4/25/2025)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson Delivers Monthly Address and Update to the Chair City
Listen to the entire update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Nicholson Monthly Update 4-25-25 Covered in the Update: A run down of Weekend Events for the last weekend in April —Future Events taking place in May and June — Yard Waste Pickup — Volunteers at the Animal Shelter — novel by Timothy Crellin — City-wide Yard Sale – Outdoor Pool Facelift and Pool Opening Date — Parking Meters Active —- Rome building demo and road closures — Bids on Greenwood Bldg. Demo — Congrats to new Pres. Of Fitchburg State — Gardner’s Small Business Saturday and Sidewalk Sale — MVP Program Ribbon Cutting — Gateway Fiber Internet Ribbon Cutting — GMS Moveup Night — National Day of Prayer Service — May Young Artists Contest — Central Mass Dental Ribbon Cutting — Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting — GES Concerts – Special Olympics – Motorcycle Ride “Edward’s Memorial” — Gardner Music Boosters — GMS Band Concert — Memorial Day Concert —- Vietnam Veterans Memorial Ride – Memorial Day Parade — Various graduation ceremonies. Contrary to the update, the Food Truck Festival is taking place on Saturday July 12th. – Website
- Update 3-29-25 (3/29/2025)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson Gives Monthly Address and Update
Gardner Mayor Nicholson Gave an update to the City of Gardner at the end of March 2025. A Nice recap. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Monthly Address March 2025 Flower Pot Sponsorships — Gardner Monthly Farmer’s Market — Dog Licenses — Purple Paws Event —- Gardner Health and Wellness Fair — Veterans — Various Events —- Drought —- Yard Waste Pickup — Businesses — Gardner Museum — Programs at the Library — Williams Rockwell Grants —
- City 2025 (1/15/2025)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson Delivers State of the City Address
The Mayor’s speech was preceded by remarks by Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll who spoke of Gardner and its penchant for success and spent the afternoon with the Mayor “bringing developers together as part of a roundtable to understand what the opportunities are here.”. Gardner Mayor Nicholson detailed Gardner’s progress and also looked ahead to the future. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
State of the City 1-14-25 View a pdf of the entire speech, CLICK HERE. The Mayor spoke of updates to the City Code, an increase in students staying in Gardner, grant funding and projects, Downtown Gardner, the Waterford Community Center, expanding transportation, moving the City forward, future funding from under budget Elementary School, a focus on housing, and interdepartmental communication Here are some of the speech highlights:
Updates to Administrative portion of the City Code: “Over the past year, we’ve brought projects to fruition, we’ve advanced others and embarked on new endeavors spanning across the entire city. Just over a year ago, when I delivered my inaugural address for this term, I said that we would be reviewing our ordinances, policies, and procedures to make sure they met the needs of a modern, growing community. Many of the ordinances in our city code hadn’t been reviewed in decades, and in many cases caused unnecessary red tape that stunted growth and stalled development. We lived up to this promise to work to update our administrative portion of the city code.” The Mayor also noted that the changes to the City Charter are now in force after the amendment was signed by Governor Healey last Friday, January 10th.
More and more students staying in Gardner Schools: “In 2018, Gardner Public Schools set the goal to decrease the number of students leaving Gardner. At the time, 300 Gardner students were leaving our district to attend schools in other places. Since that time, we’ve cut that number in half, and we’ve increased the number of students coming into Gardner Public Schools by 70%. This brings in new revenue for the district and substantially reduces the money that we pay out for Gardner students attending schools elsewhere.” The Mayor also spoke of the many academic achievements, advances, and initiatives in the Gardner Public Schools.
Success with grant funding of projects: “To pursue these efforts in the two previous years, we’ve increased our grant writing capacity and brought in an outside firm for professional grant writing. This allows us to pursue more grant opportunities with increased flexibility at a fraction of the cost and, most importantly, frees up our own staff time to focus on the execution of those projects that receive funding. As a result of this new partnership, since we first hired grant writers for the city, we’ve taken in over $52 million in grant funding for various projects. This is equivalent to 65% of our annual operating budget and double what we were able to take in before we had this service at our grasp.” The Mayor also detailed various projects in the City.
Maxed out the Grid: “Put quite simply, we’ve developed the Downtown to a point where we’ve maxed out the electrical grid in the area and are waiting for National Grid to deliver seven new transformers for the Downtown work to continue. In March of 2023, we created two vacant storefront revitalization districts in our downtown and on the Timpany Boulevard corridor, focusing our attention on bringing in new businesses into these areas. When these districts were first approved in March of 2023, we had 34 vacant locations in the downtown and 10 in the South Gardner-Timpany Boulevard district. Today, we’re down to 11 in the downtown and two in South Gardner.”
Waterford Community Center: “We’ve seen what happens when we let buildings sit with no plan. They sit and they sit until the wrecking ball is our only option. As a city, we need to commit to having a plan in these instances. This is exactly what we’re doing with the former Waterford Street School facility, taking this building and creating a new non-profit community center where our partners in the non-profit sector can better collaborate and cooperate with each other and grow their services to better serve the residents of our region. This year, we worked with a group to create a new farmer’s market at the center. Over the summer, this brought in thousands of residents and visitors to the location, pumped thousands of dollars into local agriculture, and provided access to locally grown produce, crafts, and other goods. In fact, this market was so successful that it was recognized by the Commonwealth as an example for other communities to follow…. We’ve also entered into lease agreements for the community center with the Gardner Community Action Committee and Growing Places, both of whom are currently working to build out their spaces. At this location, the CAC is going to be expanding their food pantry and community outreach program.…
Our senior center will be the next to move, and we’re currently finalizing the plan to build out their space.”Expanded Transportation: “To fill transportation gaps in the city, we’ve partnered with Woods Ambulance to create a new locally owned rideshare service called SwiftRide. This initiative offers low-cost transportation opportunities for our residents looking to get around the city on an on-call basis. We’ve also expanded this service in partnership with MART, where SwiftRide provides regular public transportation around the city from 5 p.m. to midnight when the buses would stop running, opening a door that was closed before. Additionally, Gardner, MART, and Woods have also partnered together to provide shuttle services to the Wachusett Commuter Rail Station to create an alternative method for those looking to get to Boston without traveling down Route 2.”
Moving the City Forward is a Marathon: “Simply put, moving a city forward is a marathon, not a sprint. As one project gets underway, the other begins its planning phase, and still another, its conceptual ideas. But while things take time, a lot of behind-the-scenes work is happening to make it so that that next step can happen. But that’s exactly what we do. We work each and every day to build a community in which people can be proud to call their home. As a result of the continued investment in our residents, our infrastructure, our outreach, and our programming, as a result of this city being willing to adapt and change to the changing landscape around us and to break away from the that’s-how-we’ve-always-done-it mentality, and as a result of our commitment to keep moving Gardner forward, the state of our city is strong.”
Elementary School came in Under Budget – Will Fund Projects: “Thanks to the diligent work of our school building committee, as well as additional funding received from the Commonwealth, the new Gardner Elementary School project came in $8 million under budget. In working with our bond council, independent auditors, and our financial department, I’ll be submitting a full plan to the city council in the coming weeks to reallocate this funding to various 30-year capital improvement projects in our city and around the city and in our schools. Many of these projects have been deferred for years and simply just cannot be delayed any longer.”
Focus on Housing: “We also have to be cognizant of the fact that there are several challenges that we need to overcome and correct if we want to continue moving forward as a stronger community. Gardner is no stranger to the housing crisis facing the Commonwealth. In the last 15 years, Gardner has seen a population growth of approximately 5%. At the same time, the number of houses annually on the market in Gardner has decreased by 21%. And both the average sale price of a single-family home and the average rent on an apartment have increased by over 100%…. Last month, we contracted with the Barrett Planning Group to draft the city’s first-ever master plan. As a part of this process, I’ve directed our staff and the Barrett Group to include a housing production plan for the city to create a path to new housing opportunities and alleviate these market pressures. At the same time, I’ve instructed the team to review and draft proposals to address the current and long-term issues of unnecessary red tape that hinders development, particularly with our multifamily properties, accessory dwellings, and tiny homes, addresses issues of housing insecurity and homelessness, identifies areas for future growth, and notes the specific types of housing that we are currently lacking based on the demographics of our population and their needs and the long-term vision of those needs.”
Interdepartmental Communications and Oversight: “Over the course of the coming weeks, I’ll be providing the City Council with a series of reforms and updates to the way that all of our departments interact with each other, reporting is conducted, and formalizing the structure of the committees and groups overseeing these projects through to completion. Additionally, and specifically, there will be more changes to the Community Development and Planning Department with the goal of utilizing the department and its resources to its fullest ability.”
- Update 1-10-25 (1/11/2025)
Highlights of this Weekly Update:
Registration for Summer Recreation begins February 1st – details available on that date. Gardner Fire Department has advice on ways to prevent freezing pipes during the cold winter weather. Christmas Lights can be put in the regular trash. On Sunday, January 19th at 1pm the Gardner Elks will host “Bingo for a Cause. Police Department reminds everyone that January is National Stalking Awareness Month Levi Heywood Memorial Library to have a series of Saturdays beginning January 11th on decluttering. Library has a Hot Cocoa Party on Saturday February 1st at 11am for ages 3 to 7 Congratulations to new City Council President George Tyros and School Committee Vice Chair Rachael Cormier. Parking meters set to go live on January 13th. Meters will take change. Credit card users will need a cell phone app called Park Mobile. Weekly Updates to end in favor of monthly updates. UPDATE: 1-11-25: Mayor Nicholson was asked about this on WGAW’s Hotline Saturday January 11th. Host Steve Wendell informed the Mayor that WGAW airs the update every Saturday morning. The Mayor then left the door open to bringing back a Weekly Update. Here’s the exchange. Listen on any device.
Nicholson re updates 1-11-25 Gardner Mayor to END Weekly Updates – Plans Monthly Video Instead
In a move which will surprise Gardner Magazine readers, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has announced a transition to less frequent updates. Weekly Updates have been CANCELED in favor of monthly updates. Listen to this week’s update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 1-10-25 The Mayor stated, “We’ll have this one that goes out for this week, and then we’ll have one the last week of January, and then you can expect it the last week of every month from here on out for the rest of 2025. If we find that there’s something that comes up that requires a special edition update, and there’s something that we want to get information out to the public, that’s certainly on the table and something that we’ll have going forward, particularly around the budget season. That’s probably when we’ll have those special edition updates that we already know are coming. But at least from now until those special circumstances arise, we’re going to transition to those monthly updates.”
As for why the decision was made the Mayor stated, “Based off of a significant amount of feedback that we’ve received from some of the viewers of these weekly updates, we’ve decided in 2025 to transition these from weekly updates to monthly updates. The reason being for that is a lot of the feedback we were getting is that it’s a lot of the same information week after week.”
Our Opinion – a Bad Decision
Publisher’s Note: We are not sure where the Mayor is getting his data, but there simply have been very few viewers each week with generally much less than 100 views per week on YouTube and most likely a small number on cable. However, the updates draw thousands of listeners on Gardner Magazine. The Mayor’s Update of December 6th drew 4,636 listeners, December 13th 2,873, and the Mayor’s November 22nd update still drew 1,720 listeners in December in addition to November listenership. While at times the updates have been repetitive with respect to local events, that is in fact a recent development with the majority of the updates previously having more to do with Gardner issues in general. In our opinion, the Mayor should revert back to the original content model rather than abandoning what has become a weekly message both eagerly anticipated by the public and great PR for the City in general. This is, in our opinion, a decision based on erroneous data and/or assumptions, likely fueled by a very small group. After all, the 99% who are loyal listeners and like the weekly updates aren’t likely to express their opinion.
- Caroling 2024 (12/23/2024)
Gardner Releases Caroling with the Mayor Video
Gardner has released the 2024 Caroling with the Mayor Video. You’ll hear Mayor Nicholson singing and various participants from throughout Gardner including Bands and Choirs from the Schools, Churches, and area organizations. Mayor Nicholson even plays the trumpet at the end of the program in a song tribute. The video is worth watching and we’ve have embedded it here, but there’s also AUDIO for any device. CLICK PLAY.
Caroling with the Mayor 2024
- Update 12-20-24 (12/20/2024)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson in last weekly update of 2024
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 12-20-24 Thanks: Library Staff and Gardner PD for coordinating Santa at the Library —- Staff at City Hall who participated Spirit Week and decorations —- E.L. Harvey, the trash collection company, for donating 20 bikes, half went to Gardner CAC and the other half to Alyssa’s Place.
Reminder: People who have live trees – make sure they stay watered. Dry trees are a fire hazard.
Non-Profits highlighted: Growing Places which is in the Waterford Community Center (See article on lease signing) and the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center. (See separate article, CLICK HERE)
- Update 12-13-24 (12/13/2024)
Decorations at Gardner City Hall A Holiday Season Update with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
Listen to the December 13, 2024 update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 12-13-24 EVENTS – Saturday December 14th: Good Earth Farm and Garden Center on West Broadway hosts Santa Claus from 10am to 2pm. —- Sun. December 15th: Winter Carnival with Elsa and Anna at the Black Dove Art Studio from 3pm to 5pm. — Tues. Dec. 17th is Senior Center Christmas Caroling Sing Along from 1:30 to 3pm. —- Weds. December 18th: Library has Pajama Story Time with Santa Claus at 6pm —- Weds. December 18th: Gardner High School Winter Concert being held at the gym at 7pm. —- December 19th: Annual Christmas Lights Tour on horse-drawn carriage from 4pm to 6pm, ride is FREE and leaves from Gardner City Hall.
Food/Clothing/Toy Drive in Gardner City Hall Rotunda going on now to benefit the Gardner CAC. Please bring in donations by December 23rd.
Looking Ahead: House of Peace and Education hosts a night of games on Friday, January 3rd from 6:30 to 8:30pm.
- Update 12-6-24 (12/6/2024)
Holiday Season Underway in Gardner and the Mayor has plenty to say in Update to City
Gardner Mayor Nicholson provided an uplifting look at Holiday themes and events in Gardner during the update of December 6, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 12-6-24 Invitation to view decorations: As he did his update from the Gardner City Hall Rotunda, the Mayor invited all to stop by and check it out at City Hall, the Rotunda, and Perry Auditorium. The Gardner Domestic Violence Task Force has been setting up white and purple Christmas Trees to raise awareness of resources. Another tree in the Rotunda is dedicated to all veterans stationed at various places around the globe.
View the numerous events mentioned in the update in the list below.
Numerous Events: Gardner Square Two 23rd Annual Memorial Lights campaign continues and helps pay for the Christmas lights decorating the various trees at Monument Park, Lafayette Square, and even the wreaths put on the Victorian light posts. —- The Mayor thanked those who participated in the recent Tree Lighting —- The Sound of Music is currently running at the Mount — Final day of the Gardner Museum Festival of Trees is December 7th. —- The Senior Center Christmas Party and Christmas Concert will take place on Monday, December 9th from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. —-Escort for the Wreaths Across America on their stop here in Gardner on their way to Arlington Cemetery. 5:30pm, Monday December 9th at MWCC. —- The Gardner Middle School Band Concert is going to be taking place on Tuesday, December 10th at 6 p.m. —- The Gardner Middle School Chorus Concert is going to take place on Thursday, December 12th at 6 p.m. —- Gardner Elementary School PTO a showing of the Polar Express at Gardner Cinemas. Tuesday, December 17th at 6 p.m. —- Gardner High School Winter Concert Wednesday, December 18th at 7 p.m. —-Library is doing a Pajama Storytime with Santa Claus Wednesday, December 18th from 6 to 6 45 p.m. —- Gardner CAC accepting donations of unwrapped Christmas gifts for children, non-perishable food donations, and clothing items with a special need for winter coats.
- Update 11-22-24 (11/22/2024)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson with a Holiday-Themed Update
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updated the Chair City on November 22, 2024. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Update 11-22-24 UPDATE: in the Mayor’s Update, the wrong date is given for the wrapping station at the library. The correct date is Saturday December 21st from 10am to noon.
Mayor Nicholson opened the update congratulating Gardnerites who are marching in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this coming week.
The Mayor spoke about a letter which went out to offer guidance to people who might have lead in their private pipes. Mayor Nicholson stated “there is no lead in Gardner’s water” Report available on the City of Gardner website.
Square Two 23rd Annual Fund Drive for our Memorial Lights is underway. A wonderful opportunity to make a contribution to honor family members and friends, or show your holiday spirit and community pride. The forms for this are at Gardner City Hall, John’s Sport Shop, and The Velvet Goose.
19th Annual Festival of Trees is taking place at the Gardner Museum until Saturday, December 7th. Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4, Fridays 1 to 7, Saturdays and Sundays 10 to 4 p.m.
Date Event Description Saturday 11-23-24 Special Thanksgiving Farmers Market 10am to 1pm at Perry Auditorium – rear of Gardner City Hall – Everything from vegetables, produce, turkeys, knick-knacks, little crafts… Saturday 11-23-24 First annual Fill a Cruiser food drive event this year in support of the Gardner CAC. Gardner Police Department at 200 Main Street on Saturday, November 23rd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday Hours
City Hall is going to be closing at noon Wednesday November 27th. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Friday November 29th.Saturday 11-30-24 Small Business Saturday, nationally recognized on Saturday, November 30th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
12-1-24Holiday Stroll and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on December 1st, from 4 p.m. to about 6 p.m. Meeting first at the front steps of Gardner City Hall, where the Gardner High School Wildcat Marching Band will be playing some selections. Saturday
12-21-24Saturday, December 21st, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., there’s a wrapping station at the Gardner Library for all ages, co-sponsored by the Gardner High School Leo Club.
- Nicholson Interview 11-20-24 (11/20/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Road Ahead
A Discussion with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on the Road Ahead in Gardner. We discuss various topics including the recent recount issue, various City projects, and the Road Ahead with all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Road Ahead – Nicholson Interview 11-20-24 Re the potential recount: Even though Bruce Chester requested an incorrect form, City Clerk Titi Siriphan reached out to the State and then to Bruce Chester to make sure he got the correct form. Clerk’s office was staffed until 5:15pm on day of deadline to give Chester every chance. However, he did not turn in the forms. Interview contains complete explanation from the Mayor.
Re Paul DeMeo: Interview addresses some of the nonsense perpetrated against the City and some very good people.
Project Updates: We go over many of the projects as to status, speak about grants, and talk about possible uses for the roughly unspent $8million from the new Elementary School loan and the inherent restrictions. Note that Director Trevor Beauregard is leaving the City in December.
The Road Ahead – And literally at the end of the interview, Mayor Nicholson was on the road to meet with an investor interested in Gardner. Gardner Magazine will update you if there’s more good news to share down the road.
- Update 11-8-24 (11/8/2024)
MORE DETAILS: Farmers Market at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. Saturday November 23, 2024 10am to 1pm
Erica Bosse advises that about 30 vendors will have more than 40 tables. Jordans Turkey Farm and Wildwood Farm both have pre order Turkey options for pick up at the market and buying limited amount available at the market. Will have produce and veggies including Rock Harvest Farm, My County Mushrooms, Guys Bees, Plant Matter Microgreens, and Growing Places and more. Will have HIP and SNAP vendors there. Also Brew Biscuits, Plainview Alpaca Farm, and lotions and salves. Also a wonderful baker and food line up with Deercreek Bagels, Victoria Coffee, and lots more including pies. The Gardner CAC will be doing a drive. There will be Live Music. It’s a mix of returning vendors and new vendors from our North central MA region.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson With a weekly update and FIRE ADVISORY
Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 11-8-24 This Weekend: Annual Veterans Day ceremony Monday, November 11th at 11 a.m. in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. The Mayor stated, “I highly suggest you get there around 10:45, 10:30, just to make sure that you’re in your place because once 11 o’clock hits, that’s when people start marching in.:”
Events: On November 13th, the ever-popular Festival of Trees is coming back to the City of Gardner over at the Garden Museum for its 19th year in a row. —- Turkey raffle to benefit the Gardner CAC on November 15th at 7 p.m. at the Acadian Social Club. The mayor stated, “The CAC is one of our strongest partner organizations that we have here in the city. —- The Gardner 2024 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day will be on November 16th from 9 a.m. to noon at the Gardner Transfer Station —- Yard waste will be picked up again this month in the week of November 19th to 22nd, again on your normal trash day. — Special Thanksgiving edition of the Gardner Farmers Market in Perry Auditorium is Saturday, November 23rd from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. —- Annual tree lighting ceremony and holiday stroll December 1st from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., starting at Gardner City Hall, going up Main Street and Central Street over to Monument Park. FREE horse-run carriage rides again this year. Memorial Lights forms available at City Hall, Velvet Goose, and John’s Sport Shop.
Advisory: Effective immediately due to extreme weather conditions, any and all types of outdoor open fires are prohibited in the city of Gardner. All forms of open flame, including for the purposes of cooking, recreational, or ornamental fires are banned until further notice. This includes fires associated with fire pits, chimneys, and outdoor fireplaces. Also the burning of brush and other yard debris is prohibited at this time. All residents are also asked to use extreme caution when disposing of smoking materials, ensure that they are fully extinguished prior to disposing of them, and only use non-combustible containers to dispose of those smoking materials.
- Update 11-1-24 (11/1/2024)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson with first update of November 2024 and last before Election
Gardner Mayor Nicholson opened with a description of various project announcements which we cover in separate articles on this page. The Mayor also went over polling locations in detail for the election on November 5th. Polls open 7am to 8pm. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 11-1-24 MART announced a new partnership with Woods Ambulance and their Swift Ride Woods Plus program to extend bus services in Gardner from where it right now ends at 6 p.m. all the way to midnight. You can take a evening bus ride for a cost of $10. You can get anywhere in the city up until midnight. (978) 400-9338. MART bus rides continue to be free for at least the next year.
Daylight Savings Time ends this weekend. Set your clocks back Saturday night.
“Gardner Square 2 is pleased to announce its 23rd round of the annual Memorial Lights Drive. Donation is $10 per light.That helps cover the cost of all of the different Christmas lights in the different parks, Monument Park, Lafayette Square…”
- Update 10-11-24 (10/11/2024)
Upcoming next week: Thursday October 17, 2024 at 3:30pm is Groundbreaking for the Rear Main Street Project Phase 2. That broadcast will be the Mayor’s Update next week. Public may attend.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on 10-11-24
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 10-11-24 GAAMHA received $225,000 funding through efforts of Lori Trahan and Jonathan Zlotnik. It is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. EEE was found in a Mosquito in Gardner. The Winter Coat Drive of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office has begun. There was a Flag Raising Ceremony at Care Central VNA. The Gardner Museum will have a presentation, an Evening of Chair Caning. And Mayor Nicholson wished the best of luck to the Gardner Wildcats who are playing Saturday.
- Update 10-4-24 (10/4/2024)
New Christmas Tree replacing the former tree also damaged in a windstorm. Christmas Tree Lighting will be Sunday December 1st either in Lafayette Square or Monument Park. Video is embedded here if you’d like to see Santa Claus.
Gardner Mayor Gets Visit from Santa Claus during Weekly Update
Gardner Mayor Nicholson recorded this week’s Mayor’s Update at the site of the City’s new Christmas Tree which was donated by Candor Realty. Surprise guest, Santa Claus, the Toymaker, joined the Mayor at the end of the Update. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 10-4-24 Thanks: To “everyone who made our National Night Out such a big success in Gardner this past week.”, to “everyone who attended and helped put together last weekend’s fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest.”
Events coming up: Annual Domestic Violence Vigil Monday October 7th at 6:30pm outside of Gardner City Hall —- Special edition Gardner Farmers Market Saturday November 23rd from 10am to 1pm in Perry Auditorium.
Special Art Exhibit: City Purchasing Agent Joshua Cormier has a special art exhibit at Levi-Heywood Memorial Library.
Fire Station Roof: Brand new metal roof being put on the building now. Covered completely by insurance, damage had been caused last winter by a 60 mile per hour gust of wind.
Demolition 73 Stuart Street: Work will take about a week or two to complete to demolish the building also damaged in same windstorm. Demolition will take place soon at the corner of Main and Willow as the former Rome building will be taken down soon.
- Update 9-20-24 (9/20/2024)
The Last Mayor’s Update of Summer 2024 in Gardner MA
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson reviewed various events and Chair City Happenings. Listen on any device.
Mayor’s Update 9-20-24 Work on the final coat of pavement on the Uptown Rotary starts Monday September 23, 2024 and will continue during the week until complete. Various detours are possible.
Gardner Farmers Market is Saturday September 21st at the Waterford Community Center from 9:30am to 1pm.
- Update 9-13-24 (9/13/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with Weekly Update
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 9-13-24 Recognition: Adult Day Care Week
Events: Monday September 16th: Project Redemption Photography Exhibit with a speaking portion at 6:30pm —- September 17 from 6pm to 7:30pm: Gardner High School Open House —- September 19th from 6pm to 7:30pm Gardner Middle School Open House —- September 20th at 7pm at Winchendon American Legion – benefit for Dakota Wood. —Saturday September 21st: Farmers Market at Waterford Community Center —– September 27th and 28th: Library Book Sale at Levi Heywood Memorial Library —- September 27th at 7pm Band Night at Watkins Field before the football game —- September 28th: Fall Festival and Oktoberfest in Downtown Gardner —-Tuesday, October 1st from 5:30pm to 7pm is 11th Annual National Night out in Perry Auditorium —- Greater Gardner Community Domestic Violence Vigil will be held on Monday October 7th at 6:30pm on the front steps of Gardner City Hall.
Official Ribbon Cutting: Diamond Hearts Art Studio September 20th
- Update 9-6-24 (9/6/2024)
Properties: Requests for Proposal open until September 17th for 94 Pleasant Street. —- Demolition of old Nadeau Street factory to occur soon in conjunction with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Provides September 6, 2024 Update of various events
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 9-6-24 This coming Sunday September 8th, PACC is having its Polish Drive Thru from 11am to 2pm. $15 and cash only.
Events: The Mayor started and ended the update asking for volunteers to help plant Mums in the Downtown area on September 13th or 14th. If you want to help, call the Mayor’s office at (978) 630-1490 or email Kjablonski@gardner-ma.gov. —- Gardner Museum Wildlife Photography Exhibit is underway —– September 11th memorial ceremony on 9-11 at 8:30am Gardner City Hall. —- Farmers Market, weekly taking place Thursdays at Park Street Park and next monthly taking place Saturday September 21st at Waterford Community Center. — Gardner Fall Festival and Oktoberfest is September 28th— Library Book Sale is Friday September 27th and Saturday September 28th — 11th Annual National Night Out rescheduled to October 1st from 5:30pm to 7pm at Perry Auditorium – –Gardner Domestic Violence Task Force Monday, October 7th at 6:30pm at Gardner City Hall main entrance — Theater at the Mount has various upcoming shows.
- Update 8-30-24 (8/30/2024)
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 8-30-24 Why Mums in the Graphic?
Volunteers are needed to plant mums in the City’s flower pots for a few hours on September 13th and 14th. contact kjablonski@gardner-ma.gov
In Pre-Labor Day Update, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Informs the City
Welcome: Teachers who had their first week back in school.
Thank You, “I just want to say a special thank you to everyone who was involved in the planning and execution of this past week’s International Overdose Awareness Night of Hope that we had here in Gardner. From the vigil that was done over at Monument Park to the Luminaria service that was done here at City Hall, it was really a beautiful night to remember and showed that together as a city, we really do come together to support each other and be there for each other during the highest of highs and the lowest of lows for anyone in this community.”
Events: Saturday is the Elks Riders 1426 Charity Motorcycle Race and Ride. More info, CLICK HERE. —- Labor Day is Monday and City offices are closed. —- School starting Tuesday, September 3rd for Gardner Public Schools. Primary election Day is also Tuesday, September 4th. —- City Council will meet Wednesday, September 5th. —- Yard Waste Collection will be September 3-6 —- Volunteers are needed to plant mums in the City’s flower pots for a few hours on September 13th and 14th. contact kjablonski@gardner-ma.gov —- National Night Out is Tuesday October 1st in Perry Auditorium from 5:30 to 7pm
Projects: Paving will continue. See previous article with list, CLICK HERE. —- Demo of former Rome Showroom at corner of Main and Willow Streets to take place within the first couple weeks of October with a series of detours for traffic — Uptown Rotary Project is progressing, “We expect the construction crew to be out for just another two weeks. If you’ve noticed, they’ve already started to loam and seed the islands in the area and they should be done with that next week and then they’re going to come back and put the final coat of pavement on“
- Update 8-23-24 (8/23/2024)
The Gardner City Clerk’s office is having a special Saturday voter registration session August 24th from 9am to 5pm in Perry Auditorium. Last day to register to vote for the upcoming September 3rd State Primary (other offices – Presidential Primary held earlier this year.)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City
On August 23, 2024, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson provided an update for residents of the Chair City. Listen on any device., CLICK PLAY.
Openings: Jersey Mike’s Sub Shop opened 15 minutes early and closed late due to the number of people waiting. Remaining storefronts at Timpany Crossroads will be filled by a dentist and a swimming pool company. According to Mayor Nicholson, “We’re almost at 40 businesses in 2024 alone.” In Downtown Gardner, Diamond Hearts Studios is having an opening on September 20th at noon.
Insurance: The Mayor reiterated that insurance was fully covering Fire Department roof damaged by a storm last February and fully covering damaged playground equipment at Ovila Case.
Longest Land Court Case: 94 Pleasant Street, Gardner is available for purchase after being declared surplus recently by the Gardner City Council. It took Gardner 30 years to take the property after a land court case was filed in 1992. Contact the City’s Purchasing Department if interested in the RFP process for the property.
Rear Main Street Project: Bids being opened on Wednesday August 28th. “The project for this includes the parking lot, the public park area, the food truck plaza, the water feature…. Phase two will be the residential part of it which will be you know some type of housing unit and parking for the people who live there...”
Events: International Overdose Day and Night of Hope is Wednesday August 28th. Saturday August 31st is the Elks Riders Lodge 1426 Charity Ride.
- Update 8-16-24 (8/16/2024)
Listen to the detailed update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 8-17-24 Detailed Mayor’s Update Highlights Projects, Events, and Openings
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updated the Chair City on August 16, 2024 in a detailed update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 8-17-24 Happening in Gardner: National Night Out canceled due to weather for the 2nd time – a small resource fair will be held at City Hall in October —- The DPW is removing weeds from Downtown sidewalks using a white vinegar and dish soap mixture and sweeping the streets —- Band camp is fully underway and teachers are starting up in classrooms next week. —– Crews will be working on the Uptown Rotary on Monday. —- Salt Shed approved and construction will start soon at DPW.
This weekend: Saturday August 17, 2024 is the Farmers Market at Waterford from 9:30am to 1pm. —- Funeral services for Reverend David Cote on Saturday at Perry Auditorium. —- Concert at Monument Park is Saturday from 5-7pm.
Opening Next Week: Jersey Mike’s opens August 21, 2024. Get a free sub with a $3 donation to the Gardner High School Wildcat Band.
Replacement Tree: Temporary fix will be first with a permanent tree this Fall to replace the tree by the Spanish-American War Monument.
- Update 8-9-24 (8/9/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on August 9, 2024
It’s Tax Free Weekend this Saturday August 10th and Sunday August 11th and National Night out is postponed until August 15th. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update August 9, 2024 Events: Concert at Monument Park, 4EverFab will run from 6pm to 8pm. The earlier time will begin the following week. ===== Monthly Farmer’s Market at the Waterford Community Center will be held on Saturday, August 17th from 9:30am to 1pm ==== International Overdose Day and the Annual Night of Hope is Wednesday August 26th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Monument Park ====
Changes: MART Route changes take place on September 3rd
- Update 8-2-24 (8/2/2024)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson’s Update from Maki Park in Downtown Gardner
On August 2, 2024, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Weekly Update was from Maki Park in Downtown Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Weekly Update 8-2-24 Backpacks Available through Gardner CAC Backpack program – preregister at CAC website, CLICK HERE —- Also, on Saturday August 17th between 9am and 12 noon, families can grab free school supplies and backpacks at the Family Resource Center, 205 School Street, Gardner Suite 302 —
Events: Greater Gardner National Night out is August 8th from 5:30 to 8pm at Gardner High School. — The Gardner Museum has released a list of Summer and Fall events. SEE SEPARATE ARTICLE. — Gardner Public Schools start on September 3rd and the new calendar is available —- Library Book Sale is September 26-28 —-
Mayor Nicholson mentioned the CDBG Press Conference. We previously published a separate article with AUDIO, CLICK HERE.
- Update 7-26-24 (7/26/2024)
From Events to Road Work Mayor Nicholson Updates the Chair City of Gardner MA
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updated Gardner MA on Friday, July 26, 2024. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 7-26-24 Events: Intertribal Spirit of the Wolf Powwow will take place on July 27th and 28th from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is free admission to this event
and it is still going to take place at Camp Collier. —- International Overdose Awareness Day and Night of Hope is August 28th — Library Book Sale September 26-28 —- Farmers Market at Park Street Park Thursdays from 8:30am to noon. Larger market the third Saturday of the month at Waterford Community Center. —-Gas Line work taking place in the area near CVS. The Mayor stated, “Unitil is installing a new gas line in that area, so the road has been blocked for a couple days this week and may be impacted sometimes in the future, so we want to make sure that you are aware of that as traffic may be impeded from that for the next two or three weeks.”
Road Work: “Century Way will have their sidewalks completed on July 26th. Washington Street and Logan Street will be milled, which means the pavement will be ground down, on July 31st and August 1st, with the structures adjusted on August 5th through 7th, with the paving date of July 31st and August 1st. Additionally, work is going to be done over on Suffolk Lane in the Suffolk Industrial Park, beginning on Thursday, July 25th, going all the way through August 8th is when we think the last coat of pavement will be put on over at Suffolk Lane in the Industrial Park.”
- Update 7-19-24 (7/19/2024)
U.S. Senator Ed Markey closed the update stating, “I’m Senator Ed Markey. I’m here with Mayor Nicholson, all the leaders of the City of Gardner. This city has a beat in its step. It’s receiving a disproportionate amount of federal funding than other communities. It’s size in our country, and it’s for transportation. It’s for small business. It’s to create a vision of Gardner for the 21st century that’s even better than any of the preceding centuries. And that’s what I feel walking around, just a community that has come together to really just transform this community and to make everyone proud but prosperous at the same time.”
Downtown Gardner MA and Markey Visit Highlight Mayor’s Update of July 19, 2024
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson speaks of U.S. Senator Ed Markey’s visit to Downtown Gardner on July 18th and also talks about various Gardner events. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update July 19, 2024 Mayor Nicholson stated, “Senator Markey came to tour the downtown, visited with the owners of Bria Coffee and toured their future site over at 25 Main Street. Construction is starting to move along there, too. They’ll be getting their demolition of the interior soon and start their build out of the inside. The Senator then joined us through a walk of the downtown to talk about some of the different projects that are planned through the downtown area that we’ve received Federal funding for….”
The Mayor spoke of the vinyl wraps going around the trash cans in the Downtown. Some of the vinyl is backordered so the rest will be covered by the end of the summer when received. — The front nine of the new Disc Golf Course at Bailey Brook Park has been completed. —
Events: Farmer’s Market July 20th 9:30am to1pm at Waterford. Household Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday, July 20th — Patriot Riders America Day in the Park Sunday July 21st. — Wildcat 5k is Sunday July 21st. —- National Night Out is Thursday, August 8th at Gardner High School. —- Night of Hope is August 28th.
- Update 7-12-24 (7/12/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Maps Out Update on July 12, 2024
Mayor Nicholson Focused on Upcoming Events and MART in Weekly Update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 7-12-24 Upcoming Events: Food Truck Festival – Saturday, July 13 2024 noon to 7pm in front of Gardner City Hall The Mayor stated, “This year’s event promises to be bigger than ever, with 22 participating food trucks. Also new this year is an addition of carnival games. Bay State Amusements will be offering games this year in addition to the food trucks. There will also be vendors, artists, beer and wine, live entertainment brought to you by Dave Malouin, who plays a variety of country, oldies, and rock music,” —- Hazardous Waste Day, Saturday July 20th at Transfer Stat5ion on West Street, Gardner —- Farmer’s Market July 20th at Waterford 9:30am to 1:30pm —- American Day in the Park Sunday July 21st 11am to 4pm at Gardner Fish and Gun Club —- Wildcat 5k Sunday July 21st beginning at 9am. — 11th Annual Greater Gardner Night Out Thursday August 8th from 5:30 to 8:30pm —
MART Routes: Gardner Mayor Nicholson explained that proposed changes will reduce travel time “What MART is proposing is to take route one and two, which currently run in the same location, just one clockwise and one counterclockwise, and cut them in half so we have a north loop and a south loop on top of the loop three. What this will do is take the average loop time, so from a bus to get from Haywood Hospital back to Haywood Hospital right now, from an hour and 10 minutes down to 40 minutes.” He explains much more in the update. Here is the complete proposed Route information from MART, CLICK HERE.
- Update 7-5-24 (7/5/2024)
Gardner Magazine Updates the Chair City
The Gardner Magazine AUDIO news magazine covers what happened in the City of Gardner this week and and info on some future events. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Gardner Magazine This Week July 5, 2024
- Update 6-28-24 (6/28/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the City on June 28, 2024
In this week’s update, the Mayor goes over various events and concludes with a statement on the Racetrack which we have also included separately in another article. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update June 28, 2024 Gardner – Fitchburg – Leominster WooSox TriCity Takeover Day at Polar Park – Tickets are now on sale for the Saturday, July 6th event. Tickets are discounted for the event. A Gardner resident will be singing the National Anthem. 3 Mayors will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the same time.
Events: Saturday June 29th – Fireworks at Kendall Pond, – events at PACC and Lithuanian Club and Mr, Strickland plays Classic Rock at Monument Park. Fireworks rain date is June 30th. July 13th – Food Truck Festival noon to 7pm in Gardner near City Hall. July 13th from 7am to 3:30pm – Mental Health First Aid Training Seminar at the Gardner Senior Center.
- Update 6-14-24 (6/14/2024)
Gardner MA Michael Nicholson Covers June Events in Weekly Update
Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Saturday June 15th: Farmers Market at Waterford 9:30am to 1pm (20+ vendors) and Kayak Rat Race 1pm at West End Beagle Club
Saturday June 22nd: Small Business Saturday, Downtown Gardner 10am to 4pm COMPLETE article, CLICK HERE.
Saturday June 29th: PACC Fireworks and More, Complete Article, CLICK HERE.
Dogs must be licensed by end of the month to avoid a $50 fine.
- Mayor’s Update 6-7-24 (6/7/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update June 7, 2024 Introductions: New Executive Aide Katherine Jablonski and new intern Julia.
Confusion re Farmers Markets: Mayor Nicholson stated, “We’d also like to take an opportunity to clear up some confusion that’s been happening in the past couple weeks regarding our farmers’ markets. That is correct. There are two farmers’ markets, if you heard that S on the end of that. We have our traditional Thursday morning farmers’ market that is taking place at the Waterford Street Community Center every Thursday morning from 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Additionally, our new farmers’ market is scheduled to have their grand opening on Saturday, June 15th at Waterford Street Community Center from 9.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. This second market will feature 20 vendors at the Rain or Shine event featuring family-friendly activities and will be held on the third Saturday of every month.”
Events: Relay for Life June 7th and June 8th at MWCC —- Firefighters Memorial Sunday June 9th —- June 13th – Gardner Museum Hosts stone wall builder Kevin Gardner —- Theater at the Mount Broadway Feud Saturday June 15h —-West End Beagle Club Kayak Rat Race Saturday, June 15th —- June 22nd is Small Business Saturday, “This year’s Small Business Saturday Celebration and Happy Birthday Gardner Festival is taking place on Saturday, June 22nd from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The downtown shops, restaurants, local nonprofits, food trucks, crafters, and other vendors will display their merchandise in the streets. The roads are open to pedestrian traffic only that day, so make sure you do plan for that if you’re planning on traveling through the area. There’ll be a variety of performances and demonstrations as well. The event is free and family-friendly, and we look forward to seeing you there. The deadline for vendors to apply is June 12th, and you can visit GardnerSquare2.com for the application and the details on how to register for that event. And then after that is done, you can enjoy our first concert in the park for the Summer Series, Holden Back, and that will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on that same Saturday, and again, that’s Saturday, June 22nd.” —- Summer Reading Program at Levi Heywood Memorial Library, “This year’s theme is Read, Renew, Repeat. The program runs from June 26th to August 16th, and Wednesday, June 26th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., there will be a special kickoff party on the front lawn of the Gardner Library. Come and join us for fun, games, free books, and so much more. It’s going to be a great time.”
Dog Licensing: Renew or obtain by June 30th to avoid additional $50 penalty.
Community Alert —- “The Gardner Police Department has seen an increase in the number of cases regarding theft of delivered packages on citizens’ doorsteps recently. In most cases, there are expensive items such as cell phones that have been delivered and stolen within minutes. Suspects often wear Amazon vests and approach the house carrying a box and then swap it out for the actual package that was originally delivered. So the Police Department is urging the public to keep an eye out, be observant, and if possible, note any identifying information of suspicious persons or vehicles, license plates, vehicle make, model, etc., if it’s safe to do so. Please contact the Gardner Police Department with any suspicious, similar activities as well.”
Remembering D-Day – The Mayor closed the update with a reflection on D-Day which was June 6, 1944. “a moment of remembrance for all of those who participated in that event 80 years ago.”
- Update 5-31-24 (5/31/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the City of Gardner
In his update of May 31, 2024 Gardner Mayor Nicholson covered various grand openings and ribbon cuttings, construction, improvements, and events. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The Mayor spoke of various ribbon cuttings coming up. He also stated of Timpany Crossroads, “It’s great to see that plaza completely fill up now.” At Timpany Plaza, “You can actually see the new Chipotle’s building already framed out, and Five Below already has their new facade put up.” In Downtown re Maki Park, “that will be a three-tiered park over there with outdoor seating options, cornhole facilities and an outdoor stage with full electrical capabilities for outdoor performances.” Goal is to have it done by the Oktoberfest and Chair Luge this Fall.
Congratulations: Gardner Middle School 5th Grade Class had DARE graduation. Gardner High School graduation is June 1st. This week over $500,000 in scholarships were awarded
Events: June 1st: Gardner High School and Gardner Academy Graduation —- Gardner Citywide Yard Sale Saturday June 1st, Website —- June 3rd: Holy Family Academy graduation —- Yoga in the Park runs June 3 through August 26th — Tuesday, June 4th: Higher Ground Ministries 40th Anniversary —- Yard Waste Collection is June 4th through June 7th —- Thursday, June 6th: Joint Operations Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting —- Gardner Relay for Life June 7th and 8th at MWCC —- Sunday June 9th: Gardner Firefighters Memorial Ceremony at 9am —- Thursday June 13th: Maki Building Centers 75th Anniversary Celebration at 5pm, Linus Allain Avenue right off Betty Spring Road —- Gardner Farmer’s Market Grand Opening June 15th Website —— June 22nd from 10am to 4pm: Small Business Saturday in Downtown Gardner —-
- Update 5-24-24 (5/24/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with a 24 Minute Memorial Day Weekend Update on the 24th
Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Update 5-24-24 Mayors Convention – Nicholson attended “All of the mayors from around the Commonwealth get together for a couple of days just to go over some best practices, looking into the years ahead, some issues facing different cities and towns as we move forward… it’s great to see all the mayors get together just to be able to share ideas with each other and see how we can make our communities better.”
Congratulations: MWCC graduates from last week and Gardner High School coming up. —- New monks at Buddhist community in Gardner. —- Grand openings and ribbon cuttings. —– Gardner Elementary Band students win Gold —- 45th annual Student Government at Holy Family Academy — 4th Graders had annual lunch with the Mayor — Proclamation for National EMS Week “It’s a time to show our gratitude toward EMTs and paramedics who provide life-saving care...”
Events: Junior Police Academy July 15-20th for teenagers 14-17- applications online or at Gardner PD. —- Gardner Firefighter Memorial Sunday June 9th with assembly at 8:30am and ceremony at 9am at Gardner Fire Department. —- Library Summer Reading Kickoff is June 26th at 5pm —- Yoga in the Park Monday nights June 3rd to August 26th. 6-7pm at the shores of Crystal Lake in the new Park Street Park — Small Business Saturday is June 22nd. —- Sunday May 26th is the 20th Memorial Ride of the Patriot Riders of America Chapter 3 —- Dunn Park has passed water test and it is open for swimming.
Memorial Day Parade: “It will begin at the American Legion Post 129 at the intersection of Elm Street, Pearl Street, and Central Street at the Uptown Rotary. No construction is taking place on Memorial Day. Therefore, the parade can still start at the American Legion and go around the new rotary that is partially constructed. They’re going a lot quicker than we expected them to. And then that will go down Central Street and end at Monument Park.”
Paving Update and Flooding: “Paving work is going to be continuing throughout the city. We know that Century Way and Leo Drive should have been started this past week. We are continuing to work over on Lower Parker Street, as well as Fredette Street and Wilkins Road. As we move forward with different streets this year, we’ll be sure to announce those as they come up. But Century Way and Leo Drive will be the first ones paved, and we’ve already begun working on Lower Parker, Fredette, and Wilkins as well. So expect to see some crews in that area. There was some flooding that temporarily caused a portion of Pearl Street to be closed this past week over at the Uptown Rotary Project. There are special silt fabrics that are put over the catch basins to make sure that debris from the construction site doesn’t fall into the catch basins, but those fabrics are only rated for a certain amount of water per minute, and when we had as much rain as we had up front, as we did with the torrential downpours that we had a couple days ago, it just was too much for those silts to be able to let through at the time, but the water has since subsided. MassDOT was called in and fixed the problem, so that shouldn’t be something that happens again. But I want to thank our city engineer, Rob Oliva, and everyone from MassDOT who got out and fixed that problem as quickly as they could.”
- Update 5-10-24 (5/10/2024)
Bonanza of Community Events and Project Progress Highlight of Weekly Gardner MA Update
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updated the Chair City on May 10, 2024. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 5-10-24 Community Events: Annie Fields at Gardner Museum on Thursday May 16th —- Gardner Area League of Artists Art and Music Festival May 17th to 19th — AED Foundation Recovery Comedy Night is May 17th at Perry Auditorium —- Saturday, May 18th is First Responder Day at Levi Heywood Memorial Library —- Sunday, May 19th is a Journey of Life Concert at Bethany Baptist Church —- Popular Cruise Nights and Concerts at PACC set to begin on May 24th — Relay for Life June 7th and 8th at MWCC —- High School Graduation is Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 10am at Watkins Field at Gardner High School. —- Greenwood Outdoor Pool scheduled to open June 19th —- Library Summer Reading kickoff is June 26th at 4:30pm. —- First Concert at Monument Park is June 22nd —- Visit our Events page, CLICK HERE
Project Progress: Construction of 3 tier Maki Park has begun and will consists of outdoor seating, picnic tables, cornhole boards, and a complete outdoor stage area with electricity. —-
Road paving: Work has begun on completing Fredette Street, Wilkins Road, and Lower Parker Street. Pothole Week: All 4 DPW crews, not just the highway department will do nothing but potholes next week. Paving schedule will be released ahead of time in weekly updates.
New Businesses in 2024: Mayor Nicholson recapped the businesses which have opened and/or have had ribbon cuttings so far this year.
- Update 5-3-24 (5/3/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Informs the Chair City in his Weekly Update
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson presented his update from the GETV studios this week. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Weekly Update 5-3-24 May 7-10 is May Yard Waste Pickup (Mailer had a typo)
Events: Keep Gardner Beautiful Nip Hunt and Litter Cleanup is Saturday May 4th —- First Responder Day Saturday May 18th from 9am to 11am at Levi Heywood Memorial Library. —– 20th Annual Vietnam Veterans Memorial Ride Sunday May 26th —- Citywide Yard Sale is June 1st —- Gardner Relay for Life is June 7th and 8th.
FREE WI-fi is coming to Monument Park – goal is to have it up and running by Memorial Day.
There’s so much information in this week’s update it is best to listen to the entire update to get all the details.
- Update 4-26-24 (4/26/2024)
With May fast approaching Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City of Gardner
Mayor Nicholson spoke of amenities, construction, reminders, and events. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Gardner’s Outdoor Amenities: Mayor Nicholson spoke of the Bike Trail, Dunn Park, different parks and playgrounds, and walking trails. He announced that the disc golf at Bailey Brook Park has a couple pins in. The Mayor let everyone know that an insurance claim was filed after a tree fell on $75,000 worth of new playground equipment at Ovila Case. “It is something that’s on our radar to try to fix as quickly as those claims go through…”
Construction Begins: Beginning Monday April 29th construction resumes at Uptown Rotary. “Right now, it looks like traffic will be diverted down Cherry Street from Pearl Street into Central Street.“
Reminders: Downtown Banner and flower pot sponsorships still available. —- National Small Business Week is April 28th through May 4th, “Please be sure to support your local businesses.” — Registrations are now open for the Summer Recreation Program. —- Gardner Municipal Golf Course is now open. “Daily rates for weekdays for nine holes is $20, and 18 holes $37. Weekend rates for nine holes are $24, and 18 holes $42. Rates are for walking, and carts require an additional charge on top of that. Memberships are also open at this time for applications.”
Events: May 2nd at noon is the National Day of Prayer event over at Higher Ground Ministries —Keep Gardner Beautiful Saturday May 4th. —- Introduction to Beekeeping at Levi Heywood Memorial Library on May 4th —-AED Foundation Recovery Comedy Night May 16th at 7pm at Perry Auditorium, Gardner City Hall —- Greater Gardner Community Choir Spring Concert Sunday May 19th at 3pm at Bethany Baptist Church —- Greater Gardner Relay for Life June 7th and June 8th. —- Light the Town Purple Event is May 6th at 6:30pm
- Update 4-19-24 (4/19/2024)
Events: Book Sale at library is Friday and Saturday —- Keep Gardner Beautiful Cleanup event is May 4th — AED Comedy Night is May 18th at Perry Auditorium —-Kindergarten registration has started for Fall 2024
Mayor Speaks of Gardner PD Fraud Alert in Weekly Update
Due to an increase in reported scam activity, the Gardner Police Department has issued a fraud alert. Mayor Nicholson speaks about it along with his usual update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The Mayor spoke of available Flower Pot and Banner sponsorships. Flower pots are actually being handled by City Councilor Judy Mack and a crew this year. The Mayor stated, “We are using a different vendor this year, so I know some people had concerns with the size of the flowers that were in the pots last year“. —- The Monument Park Concert Series has been announced (Gardner Magazine will publish the list once we have confirmed accuracy) first concert is on June 22nd —- Uptown Rotary construction starting soon with paving to be completed sometime in November and streets ancillary will be paved next year. —- Mayor Nicholson gave a special thank you to City Dispatches and Animal Control officers. —- The Mayor spoke of the recent survey regarding transportation to the Wachusett train station. There were 257 responses and the Mayor detailed some facts and figures.
from the Gardner PD: ***FRAUD ALERT***
“The Gardner Police Department wants to inform everyone that we have seen an increase in reported scam activity. As technology grows, so must our knowledge of how scammers operate. Here are four signs of a scam and ways to avoid it. For more information and resources see the FBI and Federal Trade Commission listed below:” From the FBI CLICK HERE. From the Federal Trade Commission, CLICK HERE.
- Update 4-12-24 (4/12/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City with Congratulations and Event Reminders
Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 4-12-24 Congratulations and thanks: Levi Heywood Memorial Library Eclipse viewing party had over 400 people show up. Holy Family Academy had annual Wisdom, Strength, and Grace Gala and formed new charitable fund named after the late Ronald Cormier. Local Elks Lodge had kids Safety Day and honored the Mayor as their Citizen of the Year.
Event Reminders: City Hall closed Monday April 15th for Patriots Day. — Health and Wellness Fair April 17th from 5 to 7pm. It is FREE with now over 70 vendors and resource tables. COMPLETE ARTICLE CLICK HERE. —- Book Sale at Levi Heywood Memorial Library April 19th and 20th with preview sale on April 18th. —- Keep Gardner Beautiful Nip Hunt and Litter Clean Up Saturday May 4th —- AED Foundation Comedy Night at Gardner City Hall May 18th. —-
- Update 4-5-24 (4/5/2024)
Gardner’s Decades-old tree was damaged during the storm. Mayor Nicholson stated, “If anyone has seen any of these updates in the past four years, you all know Christmas is my favorite holiday, so I’m sure we’re going to have something in place there too. It is sad to see that giant Christmas tree fall as a result of the wind that we had during the storm and the ice, but we’ll come up with some type of plan to move forward with that.”
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City After April Storm
In his April 5, 2024 Update, Mayor Nicholson stated, “We definitely had a quite exciting week this past week with the late April snowstorm that we had but that’s what you get when you live in New England.” Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 4-5-24 Nicholson thanked the DPW crews for work in clearing the streets and for work on water main breaks. “The DPW crew that we have in Gardner has always been very dedicated and gets the job done in a very effective manner.” —–
Events: Chamber of Commerce Annual Economic Forecast Breakfast Friday April 12th, 7:30am at Great Wolf Lodge. —– Wachusett Business Incubator Open House Thursday, April 18th at 5pm —- Book Sale at Levi-Heywood Memorial Library Friday April 19th and Saturday April 20th. —-Councilor David Thibeault-Munoz Ward 1 Discussion Group Monday April 29th , 5:30pm at the Gardner Museum.
On Aldi Opening, “Aldi had their ribbon-cutting this past week despite the snowstorm. It was a very successful event. Over 300 people showed up before the doors opened and the line was down by Dollar Tree in the movie theater. So I want to thank everyone who braved the storm to come out for that event and thank Aldi for investing in the city.”
- Update (3/29/2024)
In the Update of Updates, Gardner Mayor Nicholson Showcases a Crazy Amount of Work
In his Weekly Update of March 29, 2024, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson speaks first of events, but then gives a heads up on some things going before the Gardner City Council on April 1, 2024. And no, it’s not an April Fool’s joke, it’s really 467 pages. See Agenda and packet. CLICK HERE
The only joke: There’s no 2nd clone: It’s the real Mayor Nicholson who has been working lots and lots of hours on behalf of the City.
Listen to his update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 3-29-24 Community Events: Yard Waste Pickup is April 2nd through April 5th. SEE SEPARATE ARTICLE CLICK HERE . —- Gardner Museum Survival in Knife Safety Classes on Thursday, April 4th Museum 2024 Event Flyer click here. — National Library Week is April 7th through April 13th – Visit Levi Heywood Memorial Library —- Health and Wellness Fair is April 17th from 5pm to 7pm in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall, over 50 vendors and FREE raffles every 30 minutes . —- April 27th is Purple Paw Walk at the Dog Park —- National Small Business Week is April 28th through May 4th. —- Transportation Survey is going on, SEE SEPARATE ARTICLE with link to survey.
Reminder: Anyone 50 and older can go to the Senior Center in Gardner. Check out the variety of services for any age.
Items Going Before the Council: For the 4th year in a row, the City has had a perfect State and Federal AUDIT. —- Feedback regarding parking meters has been overwhelmingly in favor of replacing the parking meters themselves and not kiosks. —– Appropriation requests for new police vehicles and to fund the tree removal account “so we can go through and lower the backlog of trees that have been tagged from previous tree hearings that have been held.” —- Matched funding for the water transmission project. (City is getting $1 million grant, bid came in $65,000 higher) —- Removing Police Department from Civil service can be done by rescinding original vote —- Proposals to get money for the City by leasing out various roof areas for solar panels. —- And there’s more. View the complete City Council Agenda for 4-1-24, CLICK HERE.
- Update 3-22-24 (3/22/2024)
Mayor Nicholson Addresses the Chair City with a “Jam-Packed” Update
Listen to the Update on any device, CLICK PLAY
Correction: Mayor Nicholson accidentally gave out incorrect yard waste info last week. Here’s the correct information – Yard Waste collection takes place the first full week of the month from April through October and the 1st and 3rd weeks of the month in November only.
Business News – Blue Spire Property Management had their ribbon cutting at Central Park Building —- Tanguay Jewelers had grand reopening —- Hometown Barbers grand reopening is March 30th — Aldi is opening on April 4th at Timpany Plaza —- Joint Operations opens April 20th at Timpany Crossroads —- In the works: Chipotle, Five Below, and Jersey Mike’s. Brilla Coffee will open at 25 Main Street in late Summer or early Fall.
Reminders – Fire Hazard: Gardner Fire Department reminds people that extra fire hazards happen when we have windy conditions like this . —- Gardner Police Department is accepting applications for the annual Citizens Police Academy, it’ll be held Wednesdays from 6pm to 8pm from May 1st through June 19th. Cost is FREE. —- K-9s Rocky or Sully may be able to make it to your event. Just ask PD or Fire Chief —- One week left to get your dog license which is due April 1st. —- Permit is needed for a yard sale. However it is FREE. —- Johnny Appleseed Trail Association Books available at City Hall.
DPW News – A new planter was built by DPW at Monument Park twice this week as a car hit the first one.
Events: Friday, March 29th is Vietnam Veterans Memorial Day to be celebrated on the front steps of City Hall at 10am. —- Holy Family Academy is having their annual gala on April 6th
Personnel: Human Resources Director Debra Pond has decided to leave her job of 20+ years. On December 4, 2023, Pond’s re-appointment was confirmed on a 9 to 2 vote by the Gardner City Council. The Appointments Committee had recommended against her re-appointment. Listen to both meetings and view the article, CLICK HERE.
- Update 3-15-24 (3/15/2024)
Flyer Links: AED Foundation – Purple Paws – Health & Wellness Mayor Nicholson spoke of various City events and also had a big announcement: The City has been awarded a $920,000 grant by the Federal government to replace the James Street pump station. “that gets the water from the storage tanks on top of James Street and Reservoir Hill out into the north section of the City.” Last year, the City was awarded a $1 million grant to replace the City’s main water transmission line.
Publisher’s note: The plural of flyer is either “fliers” or “flyers”
With Event Fliers on Display and Sporting St. Patrick’s Day Attire, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City
In his March 15, 2024 Update, Mayor Nicholson spoke of various events, provided some reminders, updates, and announcements. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update March 15, 2024 The Fliers: AED Foundation- website – First Annual Everyone Wins Tournament Taking Place on March 23rd at Golf RX, 109 Main Street. $75 per person or $300 per team FLYER, CLICK HERE Purple Paws – 2nd Annual Event takes place on Saturday April 27th from 9:30am to noon at Pulaski Park – FLYER, CLICK HERE. Health and Wellness Fair– April 17th 5pm to 7pm at Gardner City Hall Perry Auditorium. FLYER, CLICK HERE. FREE MART transportation available at City Hall is a bus stop.
Reminders: Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony March 29th at 10am in front of Gardner City Hall —Keep America Beautiful Cleanup taking place on Saturday, May 4th. More Info —- During the first week of April, April 2nd through the 5th, the annual yard waste collection cycle starts. —- Pick up your dog waste, Mayor’s been getting calls about you. —- Gardner Food Truck Festival is Saturday July 13, 2024 from noon to 7pm. ARTICLE CLICK HERE —- VIPS Program is accepting applications – Gardner residents can work hours at City Hall and get a discount on property taxes. More info from city of Gardner, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Municipal Golf Course has its artificial grass driving range open. The Golf Course was discussed at a recent Public Welfare Committee Meeting, CLICK HERE.
For previous updates, please visit the Mayor’s Update AUDIO page. We list every update from 2022, 2023, and 2024 with a link to the individual article and the ability to play any update you choose. For the page, CLICK HERE.
- Update 3-8-24 (3/8/2024)
Proclamation pictured is for Sudden Unexplained Death in Children Awareness Month. Here is information at sudc.org, CLICK HERE.
Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on March 8, 2024
The Mayor reminded listeners about various events. Daily Savings Time starts on Sunday, March 10th and the Fire Department recommends checking your smoke detectors as well. —- Vietnam Veterans Day taking place March 29th at 10am on front lawn of Gardner City Hall. —- Deadline to get Dog License is Monday, April 1st because March 31st is a Sunday. —- Various events are going on at the Gardner Museum including a display by landscape artist Mark Lore. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 3-31-24 Mayor Nicholson spoke about paving in the Chair City and that the City’s asphalt contractor opens their plant on May 1st. He also went over a major water break on Leo Drive which will mean some paving will need to be redone. Repair of Gardner roof will cost about 1.2 Million with all but a deductive of $5,000 being covered by insurance.
The Mayor concluded by asking for citizen input regarding parking meters in Downtown. Currently most of the meters don’t work, but there still is a 2 hour parking limit. Some options are no meters, new meters, or a kiosk. What do you want? Call the Mayor’s office at (978) 630-1490 or email Mayor@gardner-ma.gov.
- Update 3-1-24 (3/1/2024)
Tuesday, March 5, 2024 is Election Day. Complete information from the City of Gardner, CLICK HERE
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with his First Update of March 2024
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updated the City of Gardner on March 1, 2024. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update March 1, 2024 The Mayor gives a detailed account of the roof damage at the Gardner Fire Station as a result of wind. A temporary emergency repair has been made to keep the roof stable and a more permanent solution is being considered. The Mayor stated, “I do want to stress that no firefighters were injured as a result of this, nor was any equipment damaged as a result of this. It’s just one of those fluke incidents that happens just because the wind blew the right way at the right time and hit the right spot of the roof.”
The Mayor thanked DPW for work on a water main break which occurred on Leo Drive.
Mayor Nicholson has been sworn in as a member of the Governor’s Transportation Task Force. SEE ARTICLE on this.
Brad Heglin will be sworn in as a Councilor-at-Large at the next City Council meeting. The Mayor spoke of various appointments he has before the Council and that several dozen ordinance changes will be addressed in April.
Events: Thursday, March 28th is a Status of Women Public Hearing at MWCC from 5:30pm to 7:30pm —Dog license applications are due by April 1st to avoid a fine or penalty. Keep Gardner Beautiful is Saturday May, 4, 2024. — Gardner Food Truck Festival is Saturday July 13, 2024 from noon to 7pm on the front lawn of Gardner City Hall. —
- Update 2-23-24 (2/23/2024)
An Update on the City of Gardner – February 23, 2024 with Publisher Werner Poegel
The Gardner Emergency Housing Mission — Presidential Primary —- Various projects and results of meetings. Upcoming meetings for the week of February 26th. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Update – Gardner – Werner Poegel 2-23-24 Actions of the Gardner City Council, Zoning Board, Planning Board. Public Safety matters.
The City of Gardner did not release an update this week .
- Update 2-16-24 (2/16/2024)
Listen to the February 16, 2024 Mayor’s Update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 2-16-24 Gardner Mayor Nicholson Updates the Chair City on February 16, 2024
The Mayor addressed the number of calls his office has received regarding the apartments at 42-52 Parker Street – They are market rate units. They are not being used for migrant housing.
Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Events: Friday Fish Fry During Lent at Holy Spirit, corner of Lovewell and Metcalf in South Gardner. 5 to 7pm or until food runs out Separate Article, CLICK HERE —- City Hall closed Monday, February 16th for Presidents’ Day, City Council meeting will be on Tuesday. — It will be February vacation week next week in Gardner and Levi Heywood Memorial Library has plenty of programming options, and museum passes are available too. —- Music Man at MWCC starting February 23rd. —- Vigil for Breanna Pennington to be held Wednesday February 21st at 6pm. —- Presidential Primaries March 5, 2024.
News: Gardner Fire Department Awarded Safety Grant of $19,000. Separate Article, CLICK HERE. MART now offering Sunday services in Gardner. —- Assistant City Solicitor Attorney Charland passed away this week. — The Mayor explains a new resource available for grandparents who are raising grandkids.
- Update 2-2-24 (2/2/2024)
Reminders: MART is Fare-FREE until July 1st — Excise taxes are due March 4th, contact tax collector’s office if you haven’t received a bill — Dog licenses need to be renewed by April 1st
In Weekly Update – Remembering and Reflecting on City Councilor Ronald F. Cormier
While he did cover some reminders and events, (see below), in his Weekly Update of February 2, 2024, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson devoted much of the time to remembering and reflecting on the public service of Councilor Ronald F. Cormier who passed away on January 28th. The Councilor had 4 decades of public service. Complete Article on Councilor Cormier, CLICK HERE. Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 2-2-24 Events: Health and Wellness Fair is April 17th — Gardner is setting up a brand-new Farmer’s Market at Waterford Street School, more information on this Facebook page, CLICK HERE. — Various ribbon cuttings are taking place in February.
- Update 1-26-24 (1/26/2024)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Does Update Outside of Dilapidated DPW Salt Shed
Mayor Nicholson’s Update on January 26, 2024 included him pointing right at the DPW’s Salt Shed which is almost falling down. The Mayor explained, “We have a lot of issues with this building. Not only can you see that the walls are quite literally being propped up and are still falling apart, what you can’t see is the several holes that are also in the roof. And when it rains outside, as you can imagine, water and salt don’t mix well with each other, and we actually sometimes have to take equipment to break the salt up because it hardens together after it rains.” A proposal for a new salt shed will be going before the City Council. Projected cost is $625k. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The Dam: The Mayor spoke about work on the Dam and held up a flyer. The Wayside Dam Replacement Project will have a public comment period before the dam is repaired in conjunction with the Army Corps of Engineers. Mayor Nicholson stated, “Rob Oliva, our city engineer, will be happy to talk to you about any of the aspects of why this dam needs to be repaired, what this dam controls,…”
Trahan Visit: Mayor Nicholson spoke about Congresswoman Trahan’s visit to Gardner this week during which she saw the Community Health Center facility, the automotive campus of MWCC located on Linus Allain Avenue, and the Gardner Municipal Airport. A ribbon was cut at the airport to celebrate the completion of the runway and taxiway, and the administration building.
Voting: The Mayor spoke about early voting and voting by mail and outlined some dates which are on the City of Gardner website.
Gardner MA Events: Music Man at MWCC on February 23 and 24th, March 1st and 2nd at 7:30pm and March 3rd at 2pm. —– Sunday, February 18th, the PACC is hosting a full Polish meal from 11am to 2pm, price is $15. — Gardner Fire Department is holding a fundraiser for Henry, a child undergoing chemo treatments. (See separate article). —- Vigil for Brianna Pennington, murder victim, to take place on Wednesday February 21st at 6pm in Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall — Sunday, January 28th, Mass for City and local elected officials, at Holy Spirit Church of Annunciation Parish in South Gardner at 4pm
UPDATE: Due to the snow on January 28th, the Mass scheduled for City and local elected officials has been rescheduled for Sunday, February 4th, 2024 at 4pm at Holy Spirit Chapel at 50 Metcalf St in South Gardner.
- Update 1-19-24 (1/19/2024)
Reminders: 3rd quarter real estate tax bills due February 1st. —- Dog licenses need to be renewed by March 1st. —- Route 3 new MART bus route begins and will cut loop time in half. —Tuesday, Jan. 23rd, Congresswoman Lori Trahan will tour automotive facilities at MWCC. — Also, Tuesday, Jan. 23rd, ribbon cutting at noon at Gardner Municipal Airport
Mayor wants to know: What are you looking for in the downtown? What are your concerns in terms of parking with the development we’re seeing here too? Are you interested in seeing some type of parking garage facility in Gardner? Do you want parking meters? Should we move to kiosks? Email Mayor@Gardner-MA.gov or call (978) 630-1490
Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson Delivers Update from Downtown Gardner Successful Project
Mayor Nicholson recorded his update in the kitchen of one of the apartments at 42-52 Parker Street. Only 8 of 29 units are still available with an occupancy date of February 1st. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update January 19, 2024 The Mayor spoke of attending the Governor’s State of the Commonwealth Address with others from the City. He spoke of some funding programs which will affect the City in a positive way. One item mentioned was Mass Reconnect which provides free community college to those over 25 and has resulted in a marked increase in MWCC enrollment. He also stated, “That’s how last year over 50 students at Gardner High School graduated with both an Associate’s Degree and a High School diploma at the same graduation.”
The Mayor had some thanks “I want to thank, as part of that, the members of the Massachusetts Municipal Association for electing me to their board of directors, the members of the Massachusetts Mayor’s Association for electing me as one of the officers of the Mayor’s Association, and to Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Governor Maura Healey for appointing me to the local government advisory committee that advises the administration in Boston on different ways to really have the state help us out on a local level to make sure we’re getting the, you know, the biggest impact we can for the people who put us into office“.
Get info from the source, “Getting the information right here from the source is always the best way to go rather than finding the information somewhere on social media after a game of telephone with several different people. But if you have any questions on anything going on in the city at all, you can feel free to contact our office at any time and we’ll be answering those questions for you.”
- Update 1-12-24 (1/12/2024)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with Thanks and Updates
Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update 1-12-24 Mayor Nicholson thanked all involved with the recent Inauguration Ceremonies.
New Businesses: In coming weeks, Aldi, Chipotle, Five Below, Diamond Heart Studio, and Jersey Mike’s.
Events and Dates: Catholic Mass for the City, Sunday, January 28th at 4pm at Annunciation Parishes. Dog licenses now available, get those in by March 1st. Quarterly property taxes due February 1st. City Hall closed Monday for Martin Luther King Day. Official ribbon cutting at Gardner Municipal Airport is Tuesday January 23rd at 12 noon.
Plowing News; City has hired 4 outside contractors to help with storms. Some slots still available.
City Council Agenda: “Looks like a very long agenda when you see it, but I can tell you a lot of it’s just simple referrals that’ll be going out….There’s about 30 or so appointments.” Joint meeting of City Council and School Committee on Tuesday will select representative to Monty Tech. Another joint meeting is with Planning Board regarding the 2 zoning proposals. “And this is a public hearing on increasing the cap on marijuana facilities that are allowed in the city and putting sports betting into the city’s zoning table of uses.”
- Update 1-7-24 (1/7/2024)
First snowfall of 2024 still delivering the White Stuff
UPDATE: As of 6:30pm on January 7, 2024, the National Weather Service reported various snowfall totals for the Greater Gardner Area.
Lunenburg: 413pm – 17.1 inches, Leominster 531pm – 15.9 inches, Princeton: 122pm: 15 inches, Rutland noon: 12 inches, Gardner: 3:01pm – 11.5 inches, and Baldwinville 130pm: 10 inches, See National Weather Service data for the State, CLICK HERE
As of 6:3pm there should be no customers in the Greater Gardner area without power according to this map, CLICK HERE, but there were 325 active outages and over 15,000 customers without power statewide.
- Update 1-5-24 (1/5/2024)
Inauguration Ceremony Held in Gardner MA – Complete Coverage
With pomp and circumstance, Gardner held its Inauguration at Perry Auditorium beginning at 6:30pm on January 4, 2024. Listen to the entire event on any device. CLICK PLAY
Complete Inauguration Ceremony 1-4-24 Dr. Stephanie Marchetti, the Executive Director of the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center did the welcoming remarks, Reverend Pastor David Trolongo of Chair City Church did the invocation, and the Reverend Father Thiago Rodrigues Ibiapina of Annunciation Parish did the Benediction.
City Clerk Titi Siriphan was there for the Certificate of Election and roll call of officials.
Musical performances are included by the Gardner Middle School Bobcat Select Chorus, the Greater Gardner Community Choir, and Surround Sound.
Speakers included City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas, Mayor Michael Nicholson, and State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. Speeches are contained in AUDIO of entire event and are also available separately below.
Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about the successes of the Chair City during the past couple of years and expressed a positive vision for the future. Listen to his speech on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Nicholson Speech
The Mayor thanked Judge Goldstein for his role in helping to bring the Veterans Treatment Specialty Court to Gardner, Dr. Marchetti for work at the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center, various individuals, and City employees for their “top quality service to our residents.” The Mayor spoke about challenges, opportunities, and how “our efforts are bearing fruit.” He spoke about the various successes in the City including various projects and improvements. “We paved 20 miles of road, nearly a quarter of our entire City, in just the last 3 years.” The Mayor detailed the educational opportunities offered to Gardner students. He spoke about the over 50 businesses which have either newly opened or expanded and almost 20 buildings in Downtown under renovation. He spoke about transportation improvements in Gardner. The Mayor talked about improving City operations: “we made sure to break away from the that’s-how-we’ve-always-done-it mentality and see if there were updates that we could make to improve our operations. Regarding projects: “The most significant construction project we have ongoing for the new year is our continuing work renovating the former Waterford Street School location to house our new non-profit community center.” He also announced a name we didn’t know until now – Jersey Mike’s, a sub shop, will be opening in Timpany Crossroads Plaza this year.
City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas also spoke. The Council President spoke about cooperation among City Government and the achievements made as a result of that collaboration. Listen to her speech on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Kazinskas Speech
Kazinskas 1-4-24 Kazinskas stated “Mayor Nicholson, thank you for working alongside the city council and our city government. This is how it is supposed to work, and we have proven it in Gardner that it does work. We don’t have to agree all the time, but it is okay if we agree some of the time. We don’t have to respect each other, but we choose to do so. We can have different roles that serve different purposes in our city government and still share a common goal. Your strong commitment to transparency is appreciated, and I look forward to all that we as a City Council will accomplish together with you as our city’s mayor and our respective roles over the next two years.”
State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik delivered remarks. He stated of Mayor Nicholson. “If I can highlight one thing, it is Mike’s willingness to work with others, to put in the effort to take in other opinions. That really produces results, especially in the long term.” Listen to his remarks on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Zlotnik Remarks
Zlotnik Remarks 1-4-24 City Councilors and School Committee were there. Carolyn Kamuda was absent as she had resigned abruptly for personal reasons. Next highest vote getter Calvin Brooks was there. Per the City Charter, he’ll officially be a City Councilor at Large when elected at the next City Council meeting.
- Update 12-29-23 (12/29/2023)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Ends Year with Update from City Council Chamber
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update 12-29-23 School Committee and City Council organizational meetings will take place on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. A School Committee Vice-Chair & financial officers and City Council President will be elected.
Fire Department will be fully staffed in January. Police Department is also progressing in hiring goals. Contractor rate for plowing has been increased to $95 per hour and slots are available. MART is doing fare -FREE rides for the next 6 months.
Update next week will be the Inauguration Ceremony in which Mayor Nicholson will give his update in his Inaugural Address, Thursday January 4, 2024 at 6:30pm (official swearing in takes place earlier on New Year’s Day at 10am- at City Hall per charter) At the Thursday event, the Gardner Middle School Chorus and the Greater Gardner Community Choir will be performing.
Christmas Tree pickup will be on regular trash day between January 2nd and January 5th.
- Update 12-22-23 (12/22/2023)
STOCKING STUFFER OPPORTUNITY – Centennial Ball Tickets still available at City Hall Mayor’s Office and at the Velvet Goose. $30 each. Ball is Saturday, December 30, 2023
Gardner Mayor Nicholson with a Christmas Wish and an Update for the Chair City
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update December 22, 2023 The Mayor explained that a mechanical issue has prevented the flag from being raised completely in front of City Hall – pulleys inside the pole snapped.
The Mayor spoke about his White House visit, “There was about 20 or 30 different state and local officials and tribal leaders from around the United States who met as a part of this to talk about different things from grant funding to the infrastructure programs, what’s working, what’s not. And then it concluded with a private reception in which President Biden himself was in attendance.” 5 of the group was from Massachusetts.
Events: Winter Centennial Ball Saturday December 30, 2023 at Perry Auditorium at City Hall. 120 out of 300 tickets have been sold. They are $30 each and still available. Great Stocking Stuffer! Available at Mayor’s office, Velvet Goose Downtown. City’s Inauguration Thursday, January 4, 2024 in Perry Auditorium —- Interfaith Prayer service January 11, 2024 at Higher Ground Ministries for City and newly sworn in elected officials. And a Catholic Mass for City at Holy Spirit Chapel, 50 Metcalf Street Gardner, January 28, 2024 at 4pm.
We want to remind people that City Hall is going to open at noon Tuesday, December 26th.
- Update 12-15-23 (12/15/2023)
About HOTLINE RADIO
Airs Saturdays 12:10 to 2pm on WGAW – heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streamed 24/7, CLICK HERE.
Gardner MA Mayor Flies to D.C. for Private Meeting with the President
In a WGAW Hotline Radio segment serving also as the Mayor’s Weekly Update for December 15, 2023, Gardner Mayor Nicholson speaks of getting a last minute invitation to fly to Washington to meet privately with the President at the White House last week. Update: The private meeting also included 20-30 officials from around the U.S. to discuss local issues. We’ll provide details of this meeting as they become available. Nicholson did say “An invitation from the President himself, that’s very cool…I’m proud of what Gardner has accomplished and to get that attention.” The Mayor was asked a number of questions by Hotline Host Steve Wendell.
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Nicholson spoke of the Horse Drawn Carriage Rides in Downtown coming up on December 21st with a 2 seater and a 12 seat carriage available. Rides are FREE.
The Mayor did speak about the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget and how he wants to submit it with more detail, modeled after how Amesbury does it. The Mayor has also asked Department Heads to give him another figure which takes off 3% from non-salary items, goal being perhaps to find funds to increase salaries to make Gardner more marketable. A salary study is still underway.
- Update 12-1-23 (12/1/2023)
In closing this week’s update, Executive Aide Colin Smith stated, “Hello, everyone, and thank you for that wonderful introduction, Mike. As most of you know, my name is Colin Smith, and for the last three years I’ve had the honor of serving as Mike’s executive aide. However, today will be my last appearance in these updates as I am taking a new position at Boston Children’s Hospital. I’d like to thank Mike, as well as all my colleagues here in City Hall, for making these past years memorable, educational, and often a lot of fun. In addition, I’d like to thank all of you for welcoming me here into the community in Gardner. While Gardner will no longer be the place I come to work, it will always be a second home to me. Thank you for making that possible.
.
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson with first update of December 2023
The update was unusual in that the Mayor opened it and did the update, and Colin Smith closed the update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 12-1-23 Thanks: To Gardner Square 2 for continuing to put on the Memorial Lights campaign (still going on $10 donation), Triple T Family Farm for providing the horse-drawn carriage rides at the Tree Lighting, to everyone for patience while ambulance chase was underway, and the various departments involved
Events: On Thursday, December 21st from 6pm to 7:30pm, Triple T will be back with two horse-drawn carriages for a Christmas light tour of Downtown Gardner beginning at Gardner City Hall – both a two seater and a 12 seater are planned and rides are FREE —
Info: Deadline to submit videos of performances for this year’s annual caroling video is December 15th. Send to RRoberts@Gardner-MA.gov. Remember that November’s electric bill still reflects higher rate from October, next bill reflects lower rate from November. .—- Levi Heywood Memorial Library Winter Social is December 6th from 5pm to 8pm in the Greenwood Meeting Room and is geared ages 10 to adult. — Uptown Rotary construction paused until snow leaves us. —- Centennial Winter Ball is December 30th with a limit of 300 tickets at $30 each. —- Small Business Main Event is December 14th in the evening.
- Update 11-24-23 (11/24/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson explains the tax classification process and the single rate approved by the City Council as well as how the tax rate is calculated. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update November 24, 2023 City Council Approvals: Mayor Nicholson explained that funding was approved for a new ladder truck for the Fire Department – lead time is 4-5 years. —-New sidearm firearms for the Police Department to replace those purchased in 2011 via a grant. City last funded sidearms in 1989 when City stopped using revolvers. —-Property taxes 100% waived for Goldstar families. —- The Charter revision is now on to the State House. —- A Committee assigned to review Parking meter situation Downtown. Advisory adhoc committee will make recommendations to the Mayor.
Events: Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Stroll Sunday November 26, 2023. – — Christmas Caroling with the Mayor under production. —-Thursday, December 21st, Carriage rides throughout Downtown Gardner for a Christmas Light Tour.—- Centennial Winter Ball Saturday December 30th 6-10pm tickets $30 each
- Update 11-17-23 (11/17/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City
In his update of November 17, 2023, the Mayor goes over various projects, events, and offers congratulations to various deserving individuals. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
City Hall will only be open Monday through Wednesday of next week.
- Update 11-10-23 (11/10/2023)
Gardner Magazine Updates the Chair City of Gardner MA
Toby White and Evie Baker speak of the Municipal Election. Also, a discussion of the “Future Path, the next Term,” Coverage of the other various contests in the election and the ballot question. Other news covered, includes the weather forecast for this winter, a rendition of an original Veterans Day poem, the sludge landfill, business generosity, and progress at one of the parks. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Gardner Magazine Update 11-10-23
- Update 11-3-23 (11/2/2023)
Gardner MA Executive Aide Colin Smith Updates the Chair City – concludes with warm sentiment
Colin Smith had a number of reminders in the update. Listen to the complete update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Colin Smith Update 11-3-23 Municipal Election is Tuesday, November 7th from 7am to 8pm. Polling Locations, CLICK HERE.
City Hall is closed on Friday November 10th in honor of Veterans Day and there will be no trash or recycling.. Veterans Day exercises will be held in Perry Auditorium on Saturday, November 11th at 11am.
Yard Waste pickup in November is November 7-11 and November 21-25.
Daylight Savings Time starts Sunday November 5th at 2am – Clocks get turned back one hour.
Colin concluded with, “I look forward to speaking with you again next time. However, if that uncertainty is just too much to bear, please feel free to reach out to me directly. In the mean time, stay warm, be kind and take care.”
- Update 10-20-23 (10/20/2023)
From Opening a Kitchen, to Open Dialog, to the Budget, Varied Topics in Mayor’s Update
Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update October 20, 2023 Growing Places was approved by the Zoning Board and entered into a licensing agreement with the City of Gardner to utilize the kitchen at Waterford Street School for their new distribution center. They take produce from different farmers in the area and prepare for people in need. According to Mayor Nicholson, “they are now fully moved in to that section of Waterford Street School…So it’s great to see the first leg of our Community Center up and running over in that location….The construction on the rest of the building is happening and we’re excited to be able to open the first part there.”
Gardner PD met with some citizens to go over various issues of concern after a few incidents occurred in a short period of time. “Deputy Chief Moroni pulled up some statistics that showed that we really are on par with the last five years of calls that we’re receiving in the city. Regarding the vetted refugees staying at two lodging locations in Gardner: “They are not undocumented…these are individuals who are not illegal.” Since these new arrivals, Gardner PD calls to the Super 8 have actually gone down.
Mayor Nicholson indicated the supplemental fiscal year 2024 budget and the tax rate classification hearing will be before the City Council on November 20th. The mayor spoke about various matters relating to the subject.
The Mayor described going on a 4 hour mission as a guest of the Air Force and Army National Guard to refuel f15’s – it was part of their Employer appreciation program. Nicholson attended along with the Mayor of Westfield and the Town Administrator of Rutland and others.
City of Gardner Events mentioned in Update St. Paul’s Harvest Festival taking place Saturday October 21, from 11am to 2pm Chamber of Commerce Candidate Meet and Greet, Thursday October 26th from 6pm to 8pm at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. Falloween October 27th from 10am to noon – for Preschool Children in Downtown Gardner Heywood Healthcare Healthy Harvest 5k Saturday October 28th. More details, CLICK HERE. Halloween October 31st from 5 to 7pm – City of Gardner Trick or Treat Time
- Update 10-16-23 (10/16/2023)
Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update October 16, 2023 Worth the Wait… Mayor’s Update is INFOPACKED on Monday October 16, 2023
The Update of Friday October 13th was released on Monday, October 16, 2023. (The weekend event at Annunciation Parish mentioned in the update occurred successfully last weekend.) The Update is INFOPACKED and worth listening to on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update October 16, 2023 In lieu of the update last week, Mayor Nicholson provided the Press Conference with Governor Healey regarding the tax cuts. In this update, the Mayor goes over various positive implications for Gardner residents.
Thank Yous to the following:
Workers who worked at the polls….White Dog Printing and City Clerk’s office for getting Charter packet ready for distribution….Commwealth Workskills Program for partnering with MWCC on grant program for Nursing Simulation Lab which just had a ribbon cutting…..Gardner Domestic Violence Task Force for offering service year round…Thanks to George to the Rescue and Comcast re Veterans Outreach Center.
Congratulations to Chair City Pipers and Surround Sound for continued time making music…Congratulations to GHS class of 1963 pm 60th class reunion and for invite….
Events Coming Up
Trick or Treat October 31st from 5-7pm. Falloween for preschool and under on Friday October 27th from 10am to noon. Heywood Hospital Harvest 5k on Saturday October 28th. GHS Hall of Fame inductions also on Saturday October 28th.
Information Items
The City will be mailing out a packet to residents regarding the upcoming question regarding the City Charter which will appear on the November 7th ballot. It’s a thick booklet, but also comes with a summary. Residents should also receive information on the new, lower electric rates available through the City program – if enrolled, rates will take effect at first November meter reading. Uptown Rotary work beginning soon with most of work to be done in the Spring. Paving work in the City wrapping up, Mayor goes over locations.
- Update 9-29-23 (9/29/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on Various Topics and Events
Mayor Nicholson went over many items in his weekly update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
Topics
Waterford Street School is an active construction site. The Mayor explained what type of work is going on. —- Electrical Rate contract begins November 1st and offers a 14 cent rate for 3 years. —- Gardner Police Department has a new drone which has new features: a searchlight, infrared camera, and two-way AUDIO to communicate with someone. —- Free Cash has been certified at just over $2.5 million, the Mayor will be asking the City Council to spend 10% of it on more paving. —- Voters will be asked to vote YES or NO on a non-binding question regarding changes to the City Charter.
Events:
Senior Center Health Fair at the Waterford Street Community Center October 4th from 10am to 4pm. with over 100 vendors. —- Monday October 2nd at 6:30pm the Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Vigil on the front steps of Gardner City Hall. —- Levi Heywood Memorial Library Book Sale Friday 9/29 9am to 4;30pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm. — Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest is Saturday September 30th. —- Falloween for youngers is Friday, October 27th from 10am to noon. Halloween in the City is October 31st from 5 to 7pm. City Primary Election and Preliminary Election is October 10th – The Mayor went over the poll locations in the update. General Election is Tuesday, November 7th. – Sunday, October 1st is the Walk to End Alzheimers. – Gardner is the community with the highest rates of dementia in Worcester County.
- Mayor’s Update 9-22-23 (9/22/2023)
On Last Day of Summer, Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Does Update from Orpheum Park
Mayor Nicholson updated the City from Orpheum Park on Friday, September 22, 2023. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 9-22-23 Thank yous: Mayor Michael Nicholson thanked everyone involved in the Centennial Celebration Parade and band performances, saying “it was really something that made me really proud to be from Gardner….” Next Centennial Celebration will take place at the Winter Ball on December 30th to be held at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall.
New Court: The Mayor spoke of the Veterans Treatment Court being created anew at the request of Judge Mark Goldstein, the First Presiding Justice over at the District Court. Veterans at this court avoid jail by getting sentenced to treatment and even get paired with a volunteer who will check in on them to make sure they are following through on treatment plans. This is only 1 of 7 such courts in Massachusetts and the only one in Worcester County.
Congratulations: The Mayor congratulated Veterans Agent Lynette Gabrila on her appointment to the new Veterans Equality Review Board. He also complemented Empire Management for the work they are doing to enhance their building next to Orpheum Park.
Events: City-Wide Yard Sale is Saturday, September 23rd. Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest is Saturday, September 30th. A Domestic Violence Awareness Vigil will be held on the steps of City Hall October 2nd at 6:30pm. Halloween will be held on October 31st from 5 to 7pm.
- Mayor’s Update 9-15-23 (9/15/2023)
A Proud Moment for Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson in advance of Centennial Parade
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Mayor’s Update September 15, 2023 Gardner as Good Regional Citizen: Mayor Nicholson detailed efforts to support the city of Leominster which experienced unprecedented challenges due to flood this week. Gardner was in contact contact with that City’s Mayor. Nicholson detailed some of the Gardner damage and thanked Gardner Dispatchers and the Gardner Fire Department “For all the work that they did during that storm to help those that did have issues and called with flooding in their basements and roofs leaking and things of that nature” .
Gardner Support of Non-Profits: The Mayor congratulated Care Central VNA on their fundraiser ‘I wanna thank them for their commitment to our residents here….they’ve really continuously stepped up to the plate.” “The Gardner ARC is a nonprofit based in the city that host social events for those who have developmental disabilities.”
Gardner Support of Open Space and Parks: “There will be an official ribbon cutting for the Baiey Brook Park pickleball courts….as well as Park Street Park this coming Tuesday at 1pm. Within the next month, DPW will start to begin work on new Disc Golf Course and Frisbee golf course at Bailey Brook Park.
Gardner Support of Yard Sales: Permit requirement waved for City-wide Yard Sale on Saturday September 23rd.
Gardner Support of Gold Star Famiies. Mayor Nicholson stated, “The city is working together to put an event on to thank our Gold Star families for their sacrifice of their loved ones here in Gardner. And we are working on some, announcements that will come later related to that.
Hispanic Heritage Night moved to next Thursday, September 21st (there had been a scheduling conflict) Real Mariachi Band will be there
Support of Voting Process – City Clerk reminds deadlines are approaching to register for preliminary election and primary on October 10th.
DETAILS ON THE PARADE – Mayor Nicholson gave details of the Sunday September 17, 2023 parade at 1pm including 70 acts, the parade route, Best places to view is Central Street and Parker Street. The Mayor thanked all local media for helping to promote the parade. Here’s the official program, CLICK HERE.
- Mayor’s Update 9-8-23 (9/8/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on 9-8-23
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Mayor’s Update 9-8-23 The Mayor met with representatives from Unitil and National Grid – Rate increases are expected. —-Some work at Waterford Street School continues. City working with the Commonwealth to remove the Article 97 restrictions. —- 3rd Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration including a real Mariachi Band taking place Thursday, September 14th 5:30pm on the front steps of Gardner City Hall —- Reminder of Upcoming Preliminary Election on October 10th. Mail-in balloting will be available. —– Video and written material is available regarding Charter Changes —-City Centennial Parade Sunday September 17, 2023
- Mayor’s Update 9-1-23 (9/1/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on September 1, 2023
The Mayor covered various events, explained the happenings of the Centennial Parade Day, went over City Charter on the ballot, and explained Route 140 Zoning issues. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update 9-1-23 Events: A welcome to Faculty and Staff at Gardner Public Schools with Schools opening on Tuesday. —- Gardner Housing Authority and Gardner CAC held a back-to-school Backpack giveaway this past week. —- City Hall closed Monday September 4th for Labor Day. —- Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest taking place on Saturday September 30th. —- Citywide yard Sale is Saturday September 23rd – City not requiring a permit, contact private organizer Julie Mazza to get on the map.
City Centennial Celebration Parade on Sunday September 17th at 1pm. The Mayor described the event plans in detail including road closures and parking restrictions. He also showed a map of the parade in the video, CLICK HERE to see the UPDATE VIDEO. Click here to see an expanded map page so you can read it.
Route 140 Parcels: Mayor Nicholson confirmed that the two Route 140 parcels proposed for rezoning from residential to commercial are under Protection of Article 97. He stated the Gardner City Council has several different options that it could take.
Regarding the City Charter appearing on the ballot, the Mayor stated that “the recommendations from the secretary of state’s office came as a non binding vote solely because the actual act of amending the charter does not come from the vote of the election, but as a result of the vote of the house and the Senate and the governor’s signature. So since that’s the final action that takes place, that’s why they recommended a non binding measure on the ballot. “ The City Council did in fact vote 6 to 5 for non-binding at its last meeting. Publisher’s note: If the City Council had voted for “binding” it would simply mean that they would be mandated to follow the will of the voters whether the voters approved or rejected the Charter changes. In any case, the Massachusetts Legislature and Governor must also approve after the City Council vote.
- Mayor’s Update 8-25-23 (8/25/2023)
Progress and Development Focus of Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Update from Greenwood Site
The Mayor’s Update of August 25, 2023 is filled with good news of the Chair City from progress, development, new business and exciting events. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update August 25, 2023 Mayor Nicholson thanked a number of people involved in various activities in the City. And, the Mayor says the revitalized interest coming through the City right now is really refreshing to see.
New Gardner Businesses in 2022: 33
New Gardner Businesses so far in 2023: 15
Good News in the Update…. Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals fully approved Aldi’s application for their new location in the Timpany Plaza. Projected opening January or sooner. Another 4 to 5 businesses have also shown an interest in Timpany Plaza The Mayor welcomed Golf RX to the old Wheelen Supply Building. It is set to open December 1st. And the Flicker Hill Farmhouse which sells online or through Farmer’s Markets in the area. Maki Park construction with a 3 tiered approach will take place after the Oktoberfest and feature cornhole facilities and an outdoor stage. Uptown Rotary Project work will take place after the Centennial Parade in September.
The Mayor also spoke of other sidewalks and crossing ramps being fully installed and paved.
The work on the outer side of the Gardner Municipal Golf Course connecting Park Street to Green Street.A chapter 90 reimbursement request was put in to the Commonwealth for the work done over on Partridge Street and South Gardner. Keys Road is the next stop on the paving program for this year. Intersection of Elm Street and Cross Street is getting drainage repairs. DPW will start line painting in the City which has been delayed due to a shortage in the paint supply. Groundbreaking occurred for the new runway at the Gardner Municipal Airport. Spray park functions at Greenwood Pool, but will reopen next year. Upcoming Events: Thursday, August 31st is the Overdose Awareness Vigil at Monument Park. —- Citywide Yard Sale is Saturday, September 23rd. —- The Centennial Parade on Sunday September 17th will begin at the Big Chair at 1pm with over 100 acts ending with the UMASS Marching Band of 350 people. After the parade, there will be a 3pm show at Gardner High School. —–The Mayor spoke of the upcoming demolition of the Indoor Greenwood Pool Building — Note: Community Development Block Grant Awards and City Share totaled $1.8 million – City is fortunate to be receiving $1.65 million towards that total. (About 92% State Funding, 8% City Funding)
- Update 8-18-23 (8/18/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Focuses on Housing and Some Events
In his Mayor’s Update of August 18, 2023, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson focused on the visit from MA Cabinet Secretary Ed Augustus regarding the 222 housing units planned in the Downtown area over the next year and a half. He also spoke about the September 17th Centennial Parade, Sports Teams and Marching Band, the September 23rd City -Wide Yard Sale, and the International Overdose Awareness Day on Thursday August 31st. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 8-18-23
- Mayor’s Update 8-11-23 (8/11/2023)
Listening to this update would be very helpful to those who want to better understand the process involved regarding the land on Route 140. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Gardner MA Events and Clearing Up Confusion Regarding Route 140 Land and Processes
Ever since it was revealed that Suffolk Downs is interesting in bringing Horse Racing to Gardner, the Mayor’s office has received many calls, particularly because certain misinformation has been shared on Social Media. In this week’s update, Mayor Nicholson goes over events in the Chair City and then explains the process in an effort to Clear Up Confusion by presenting fact. Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update August 11, 2023 Events and Updates in the City of Gardner
A lot of work in Downtown including at the Garbose Building, having a brand new roof and with new windows coming soon Former Buffer Zone Building get new siding in next week or 2 Centennial Anniversary Parade taking place on Sunday September 17, 2023 at 1pm with a performance by the UMass Marching Band later at Gardner High School City received a $200,000 grant from the Commonwealth Compact program to extend fiber optic cable in Gardner. Gardner Museum having its Craft Fair on Saturday August 12, 2023 from 10am to 4pm Over 400 students participated in the Summer Camp this year Clearing Up Confusion Regarding Route 140 Zoning
Mayor Nicholson explained that the parcels in question can right now only be used for housing. The proposal is to switch the designation to commercial which is a long list of possible businesses in the City Zoning table. City Council recently voted to send the proposal to the Planning Board for an “initial recommendation.” Then, a joint public hearing will be held with the City Council and Planning Board, where residents can voice their opinions. After that hearing, the Planning Board will meet again and vote on its final recommendation. Then the City Council has 90 days to vote yes or no on the recommendations. Once it votes a second time, the decision goes into effect. The Mayor detailed other particulars including the number of councilors who must vote in the affirmative. Upon approval, the Mayor would request the City Council to set a minimum price for the land which is currently appraised at $4.3 million. Once the City Council approves a price, an announcement is setup on the City of Gardner requesting proposals. Just like the 7 properties sold by the City last year, interested parties would need to follow the “Request for Proposal” process where the technical proposal (what you want to do with the land) is actually considered and rated before the bid amount is considered. The technical proposal carries a higher weight than even the price bid. If a Horse Racing proposal is received, it is considered just like all other proposals.
- Mayor’s Update 8-4-23 (8/4/2023)
A Gardner MA Update from the Site of National Night Out
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updated the Chair City. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update August 4, 2023 The Mayor spoke about National Night Out, the sidewalk paving occurring on Lawrence and Pearl Street, Progress in Downtown Gardner, launch of Wood’s Plus “Swift Ride”, the Craft Fair at The Gardner Museum on Saturday, August 12th, and congratulated Sarah Chesley for 5 years service as a dispatcher.
- Update 7-28-23 (7/28/2023)
Gardner MA Executive Aide Colin Smith Delivers Weekly Update Report to Chair City
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Colin Smith July 28, 2023 Colin Smith reported that the Gardner Senior Center at 294 Pleasant Street is open Friday July 28, 2023 until 7pm as a cooling center. He spoke of an 8 year old girl from Worcester who visited Gardner during her summer of trying to see all the towns and cities in the Commonwealth. Yard waste pickup is August 1st through August 4th. He gave the dates for the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project (see separate article). Boot Hill Express is playing at Monument Park on Saturday, July 29th. See separate article on Weekend Entertainment. And, Colin concluded by saying about last weekend’s Summer Centennial Celebration, “I’d like to thank the Centennial Committee for their hard work, particularly Theresa Thompson who was so instrumental in putting that event on.” Centennial Parade is Sunday September 17th at 1pm. See separate article
- Mayor’s Update 7-21-23 (7/21/2023)
For more details and the complete page on the Gardner Summer Centennial Celebration taking place Saturday, July 22, 2023 from noon to 6pm at Mount Wachusett Community College, CLICK HERE.
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Focuses on Gardner Events, Amenities, and Public Input in Update
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Mayor’s Update July 21, 2023 Events: City Summer Centennial Celebration Saturday July 22, 2023 from noon to 6pm at Mount Wachusett Community College. —- Fall Centennial Celebration Parade September 17, 2023 – (Entrance fee businesses $100, Non-profit $25) Registrations still open —- Farmers Market is Thursdays from 8:30am to 12:30pm at Waterford Street School. Vendors can contact Nadine Smith at (978) 413-1859 (Crafters this year too) Gardner Senior Center is offering coupons. —- Senior Center Cookout is noon on Wednesday July 26th at the Templeton Fish and Gun Club. Tickets available at Senior Center.
Public Input: August 2, 2023 6-7pm Public meeting regarding Wayfinding —- MART met with City officials regarding public transportation in the City. —-The Gardner Cultural Council is having a Community Input Survey.
Amenities: Greenwood Pool Open Again beginning Saturday July 22, 2023. Spray Park to open in 1-2 weeks if all goes well. —- Park Street Park visits encouraged – reminder that Crystal Lake is a reservoir and not for swimming.
Greenwood Pool is shown on July 21, 2023 ready to open Saturday July 22nd.
- Update 7-14-23 (7/14/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Does Weekly Update from Park Street Park
Mayor Michael Nicholson did his weekly update from Park Street Park on Friday, July 14, 2023. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
Mayor’s Update 7-14-23 Mayor Nicholson recapped some events and spoke about some upcoming events. He spoke of the Gardner Food Truck Festival which took place on July 8th, stating that the date for next year will be released shortly. He also thanked the various individuals involved in putting the event together and suggested that anyone having feedback on the festival can contact Colin Smith at the Mayor’s office. Csmith@Gardner-ma.gov or (978) 630-1490
A more permanent name will eventually given to Park Street Park.
The Mayor spoke of Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s visit to Gardner to seek citizen input. He spoke about the new comfort dog, Sully, who has come to the Gardner Fire Department. Strands Hair Salon on Knowlton Street had a ribbon cutting. Greenwood Pool had to be drained due to broken glass goggles and is opening once water is refilled. Almost 400 students are involved in the Summer Recreation Program which actually employs about 60 individuals. National Night Out is Thursday, August 3, 2023. The city is looking for Trail Heroes (We have another story on this). The City Summer Centennial Celebration is Saturday July 22, 2023 at Mount Wachusett Community College.
Sidewalk work is taking place on Lawrence Street. More work is being done on Eaton Street taking down some trees, installing guardrails, and putting in the final cost of pavement.
Misinformation regarding Waterford Street School. (Publisher’s Note: A certain Facebook Group is notorious for spreading wrong info.) The Mayor wants everyone to know that the Community Center at Waterford Street School is still moving forward. There is simply a paperwork technicality regarding how the land was taken initially by eminent domain which has caused a delay of a couple of months.
- Mayor’s Update 7-7-23 (7/7/2023)
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Mayor’s Update July 7, 2023 Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson in First Update of New Fiscal Year
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Mayor’s Update July 7, 2023 Mayor Nicholson congratulated students from Gardner High School who participated in recent leadership programs at Stone Hill College and thanked the 300 third graders who recently visited Gardner City Hall as part of their learning about local government. He also spoke of the Summer Reading program of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library. And the Mayor spoke of some staffing changes at the schools.
Mayor Nicholson spoke of events: Thanked those who made the June 29th Concert possible, reminded about the Saturday, July 8, 2023 Food Truck Festival, and in 2 weeks, the Summer Centennial Celebration at MWCC. There are signup opportunities for the Sunday, September 17, 2023 parade. $100 fee, non-profits are free until July 15th when the fee becomes $25
The first quarter tax bills of the new Fiscal year have been sent out. And the City will have the benefit of an intern this summer in the Muncipal Finance Department.
Mayor Nicholson spoke of the Greenwood Pool opening and said the Splash Park is planned to be open sometime soon. Park Street Park area construction continues with expected completion in mid-August.
- Update 6-30-23 (6/30/2023)
Gardner Magazine Updates the Chair City of Gardner MA
Various dates to remember and other Chair City News.
With Dylan Martin, Toby White, and Sarah Lepley.
Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Gardner Magazine Update 6-30-23 Mayor Nicholson did not publish an update this week.
- Update 6-23-23 (6/23/2023)
Gardner MA Executive Aide Colin Smith with a Reminder on Upcoming Events
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Colin Smith speaks about the events of June 24th, June 29th, July 8th, and July 22nd.
Gardner Magazine has a detailed page featuring details on all of these events, CLICK HERE.
- Update 6-16-23 (6/16/2023)
An Update with Gardner Magazine’s Toby White and Sarah Lepley for Gardner MA
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Gardner Magazine Update June 16, 2023 Update was updated at 8:45pm on 6-16 to add details regarding June 24th in Downtown Gardner.
Host Dylan Martin introduces Toby White and Sarah Lepley who offer:
Thanks, appreciation, and congratulations to a number of people, officials, and organizations.
Updates on Important Things Happening in Gardner including actions of the City Council and School Committee, Safety Protocols at Heywood Hospital, and Job Opportunities with the City.
Important Gardner Events such as Gardner’s Birthday on June 24th and the Fireworks, the FREE Rock Concert at City Hall on June 29th, the Food Truck Festival on July 8th, and National Night Out in August.
Due to a scheduling conflict, the Mayor was not able to do an update this week.
- Update 6-9-23 (6/9/2023)
Completion – Gardner MA Mayor’s Update of June 9, 2023
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Updated the Chair City on various items which have been completed including approval of the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget, High School Graduation, Construction at Community Health Connections,, the Ribbon Cutting at Gardner Elementary School, and Sidewalk Improvements at Monument Park. Listen to all the details on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update June 9, 2023 Mayor Nicholson explains how the budget is divided among various Departments and how the enterprise funds work and thanked everyone including City Auditor John Richard for “the quickest Gardner has ever had a budget done since at least 2000.” He thanked those involved in the process of constructing the new Gardner Elementary School.
Various Events: Relay for Life June 9th and June 10th. —- Concerts at Monument Park return June 17th. —- Fireworks and Gardner’s Birthday on Saturday June 24th. —- Brandon Furtado opens for 7 Day Weekend for a concert at City Hall on Thursday, June 29th. —- Summer Centennial Celebration on July 22nd.
- Update 6-2-23 (6/2/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on June 2, 2023
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Mayor’s Update 6-2-23 Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke of the Remembrances during the Memorial Day Celebrations and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Ride.
Mayor Nicholson spoke of various items concerning the schools: The DARE program graduation at Gardner Middle School, The ribbon cutting taking place Thursday, June 8, 2023 at 5:30pm at Gardner Elementary School followed by public tours. He congratulated this year’s graduates of Gardner High School and Gardner Academy.
The Mayor stated the “ different committees of the City Council, the Finance Committee, the Public Safety Committee, the Public Service Committee, and the Public Welfare Committee have all reviewed their sections of the budget, and the council will be meeting as a committee of the whole this coming Monday, June 5th, to review the budget…” Also if needed, the Council will meet on Tuesday, June 6th.
The WooSox organization is interested in partnering with Gardner such as having a Gardner Day at the park.
Events: Relay for Life will be June 9th and June 10th at Mount Wachusett Community College. —- Happy Birthday Gardner Downtown Celebration and Gardner Fireworks taking place again this year on June 24th. —- 7 Day Weekend 7-9:15pm on Thursday June 29th with 4-5 food trucks, various beverages. Opener at 6pm with Brandon Furtado.
- Mayor’s Update 5-26-23 (5/26/2023)
“Jam-Packed” Gardner MA Mayor’s Update of May 26, 2023
Listen to Mayor Michael Nicholson’s update on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update 5-26-23 Mayor Nicholson spoke of the water main break which occurred in the South Gardner area that should now be affecting just one Gardner auto shop business due to an oil leak which the City is making sure does not affect the water supply by isolating that section of the pipe.
Eaton Street paving has begun and involves taking the street down to the bare dirt and installing a new guardrail as well. Partridge Street is set to be pulverized shortly after Memorial Day.
Flower pots are coming out and $200 season sponsorships are still available. Work is continuing in Orpheum Park, around Monument Park, and the barbed wire fence has come down at what will be Park Street park.
Gardner High School graduation is taking place Saturday June 3, 2023 at Watkins Field. Concerts at Monument Park will soon start up again and the Mayor announced a very special evening on Thursday June 29, 2023 featuring a band called “7 Day Weekend” playing on the front steps of Gardner City Hall from 7 to 9:15pm. Food trucks and beverage vendors will be there too. The Memorial Day Parade is Monday, May 29th and heads to Monument Park. SEE ARTICLE.
Water Ban? Or Not?
Mayor Nicholson in the update spoke of a water ban in effect. Gardner Magazine inquired about this as the map linked to on the City of Gardner website shows that NO restrictions are in place and other sources show that the Streamflow is either at or above normal. We will let you know when we get clarification, but in the meantime water use is officially restricted in Gardner between the hours of 9am and 5pm. Our previous article on the good streamflow and lack of drought can be found here.
- Mayor’s Update 5-12-23 (5/12/2023)
Progress in Gardner MA Continues as Mayor Delivers Weekly Update of May 12, 2023
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Gardner Mayor Nicholson spoke of Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s visit to Downtown Gardner this past week to view the continuing progress. “She was very impressed by the work that’s being done. So I want to thank everyone who has helped contribute to all of the success and investment that’s been happening in Gardner.”
Pictured is construction at Orpheum Park where one of 2 Downtown fountains is being installed. (The other will be at Bullnose Park.) Lights are strung throughout the Downtown. In the next week or two, the flower pots will be coming back and sponsorships are still available.
Mayor Nicholson congratulated the MWCC Vet Techs who had their pinning ceremony this past week and the MWCC commencement takes place this coming Wednesday.
Functions at the Gardner Public Schools included the first concerts by the Gardner Elementary School Band with 200 students. The Gardner Music Boosters Theme Basket Extravaganza takes place Saturday May 13th at Gardner High School from 9am to 1pm. An All Gardner Public School Art Show will be taking place at Gardner Elementary School on May 17th from 5pm to 7pm. Gardner High School Spring Concert takes place Thursday May 18th at 7pm
The Mayor mentioned the Chamber of Commerce Community Awards. He welcomed the new Buddhist Community to the City over on Lakewood Terrace.
- Mayor’s Update 5-5-23 (5/5/2023)
Mayor’s Update 5-5-23 On-The-Scene Update with Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Covers Much in 6 Minute Report
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Mayor’s Update May 5, 2023 Having just left the National Day of Prayer Celebration at Higher Ground Ministries, Gardner Mayor Nicholson did his update on the grounds of Monument Park where work is beginning on the 3rd phase of the Downtown Improvement Project. ADA compliant sidewalks will be installed, Victorian Light posts will be added, and some dying trees will be replaced. He also spoke of the new waterfront park and 40 space parking lot replacing the old National Grid substation.
Mayor Nicholson reflected on the start of the Relay for Life which is coming up June 9-10th at Mount Wachusett Community College. He spoke of the Conceptual Forefront Arts Festival taking place Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 11am to 4pm at Orpheum Park on Parker Street in Gardner. The Mayor announced that the Gardner Elementary School will have Spring Concerts on both May 9th and 10th at 6:30pm . The Mental Health Awareness Picnic takes place in the park on May 11th at 11am. The Keep Gardner Beautiful Event will take place on Saturday May 20th, starting at 8:30am. Also that day will be the Gardner City Wide Yard Sale and the permit requirement is waived for that day.
- Mayor’s Update 4-28-23 (4/28/2023)
Mayor’s Update 4-28-23 Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson on What’s Going On in the Chair City
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Mayor’s Update 4-28-23 The Mayor thanked Seaman Paper Company employees and the Keep Gardner Beautiful Foundation for the work they did on Earth Day litter cleanup. Yard Waste pickup in Gardner will occur on regular trash pickup day between May 2nd and May 5th.
Events
Flashback Dance drew 400 people. “When I walked into the auditorium I was blown away by the number of people there.” —- Purple Paws Walk Event will take place this Saturday at Pulaski Dog Park. —- Gardner Relay for Life will hold annual Light the Town Purple Event Monday May1st at 6:30pm. —- Higher Ground Ministries holding National Day of Prayer event at noon Thursday May 4th at Monument Park. —-Chair City Conceptual Arts Festival takes place May 6th from 11am to 4pm.
Visit to City Hall
4th Grade Class visited Gardner City Hall this week and Holy Family Academy had student government week a couple of weeks ago.
The Mayor was proud to Share Success Stories of Gardner at a meeting of the Commonwealth’s Mayors held in Fitchburg.
- Mayor’s Update 4-21-23 (4/21/2023)
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Mayor’s Update 4-21-23 For more on Centennial Celebration Events, CLICK HERE for our Centennial page.
“Let’s make sure that our tax dollars come back into our city rather than going to somewhere else across the country. So we’re going to continue to advocate for Gardner in the best ways we can…” – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson in “tion” Update of April 21, 2023
The Mayor provides extensive information in this update including the participation of the City of Gardner in a delegation to the White House after receiving a last minute invitation. Gardner received recognition at an event scheduled to discuss different projects and initiatives. With its representation, the Mayor stated, “the fact that Gardner had 2 of these 30 seats representing the state really says a lot about the work that we’re doing in Gardner.”
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Mayor’s Update April 21, 2023 Celebration: The Mayor reminded everyone about the Flashback Dance on Saturday, April 22, 2023 taking place at Gardner City Hall in Perry Auditorium
Beautification: Mayor Nicholson spoke of various beautification efforts in the Chair City
Appreciation: The Mayor expressed his appreciation to the State for paving work starting soon on Route 2A
Construction: Nicholson spoke of various construction projects in progress or soon to be underway.
Explanation: The Mayor explained that the Paws Walk taking place at the Gardner Dog Park on Saturday, April 29th is designed to help victims of domestic violence keep their pets out of the same dangerous situation.
- Update 4-14-23 (4/14/2023)
Gardner Magazine Updates the City on Friday April 14, 2023
With the Mayor’s Update not available, Gardner Magazine AI’s Toby White and Sarah Lepley stepped in with an update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Gardner Magazine Update 4-14-23 Items Covered
The huge change in weather —- April Vacation —- Jobs in Gardner —- Food Truck Festival Band —- Flashback Dance —- Downtown Gardner Improvements —- Mayor Nicholson’s bid for reelection —- Zoning Matters —- Gardner School Committee —- GHS Concession Stand —- Gardner Youth — High School Trip —- Art Classes —- Sports Teams and Coaches —- Thanks and Congratulations.
- Mayor’s Update 4-7-23 (4/7/2023)
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Mayor’s Update April 7, 2023 Various Milestones in Gardner MA Mayor’s Update of April 7, 2023
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Mayor’s Update April 7, 2023 Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke of various Milestones in this week’s update. The Final Beam was installed during a “Topping Off Ceremony” at the New Surgical Pavilion being constructed at Heywood Hospital with a projected opening in 2024. Gardner Middle School had its first musical in 4 years, Beauty and the Beast Junior. The Mayor congratulated Heywood Commons resident Helen Rouat on her 100th Birthday. He also spoke of the periodic business tours being conducted in the City.
In local events, the Centennial Committee is holding its Flashback Dance on April 22nd. The Gardner Lions Club is holding an Easter Egg Hunt on April 8th. The Gardner Health and Wellness Fair is April 12th.
Mayor Nicholson also explained the 3 Zoning Items being reviewed again by the Planning Board on April 11th followed by consideration and vote by the City Council at their next meeting.
He closed by wishing everyone a Happy Easter.
- Mayor’s Update 3-31-23 (3/31/2023)
Mayor’s Update on last day of March 2023 packed with Important Information
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Mayor’s Update March 31, 2023 Zoning and Properties
Zoning Items include matters coming before the City Council at a Public Hearing Monday April 3, 2023 at 6:30pm involving Regulating Sports Betting, More Cannabis Establishments, and Changing the Route 140 Zoning. See Editorial. See Article re City Council.
Mayor Nicholson separately wrote to the City Council for Monday’s meeting, ““If we as a City want to revitalize our economy, grow our tax base, lessen the tax burden on our residents, provide jobs for those who live here, and provide resources to meet our growing population, then something like this must be done or the City will soon be left behind without reaching its true and full potential” – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
Public Safety
Mayor Nicholson advised that no Public Safety issues have arisen with existing Marijuana establishments and a cap of 4 will allow the market to direct itself. ” Since 2019, the city’s collected about $1.5 million in fees from these companies.” In another matter, he stated that the section of Route 140 he wants to restrict from residential development in favor of commercial has had about 193 accidents in the past 10 years with 20 of them resulting in some type of injury. A change to commercial “alleviates those safety concerns for our public safety departments and then allows the City to open itself up to more job creation, more economic growth in an area of the City that’s really underutilized.” Much more in detail in our Article regarding upcoming meeting.
Public Input
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is conducting 2 virtual meetings: One for Fitchburg’s phase 2 of their bike path and the other for the bike path which will eventually go over Route 140. Links on City of Gardner Website. Economic Development Coordinator Jessica DeRoy is conducting an online public survey regarding signage in the City from now through April 10th. To complete the survey, CLICK HERE.
Local Events
It’s past time to register your dog. See the City Clerk’s office. Yard Waste is being collected from April 4 to April 7th. Heywood Hospital has their Surgical Pavilion Topping Off ceremony Wednesday April 6th at 9:30am. Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt is at City Hall Saturday April 8, 2023 from 10am to noon – bring your own basket. Health Resource Fair is April 12, 2023 from 5pm to 8pm at Perry Auditorium. The Flashback Dance is April 22, 2023 from 6:30pm to 10pm at Perry Auditorium. Various business tours are being conducted by Jessica DeRoy.
- Mayor’s Update 3-24-23 (3/24/2023)
Gardner Spirits new location on East Broadway Spring Happenings Focus of Gardner MA Mayor’s Update of March 24, 2023
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Mayor’s Update March 24, 2023 In an update jam-packed with information, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke of various Veterans matters including the recent visit of MA Secretary of Veterans Services John Santiago and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Day Ceremony to take place on Wednesday March 29, 2023 at 10am on the front steps of City Hall. He also spoke about the Daughters of the American Revolution scholarship of which he is an alum and wished the John Joslin Chapter a Happy 50th Anniversary.
Some Spring Happenings
A Rabies Vaccination Clinic is taking place at the Gardner Animal Shelter on Sunday April 2nd from 9am to noon and pre-registration is required. That same day the Eagles Club will be having their meat raffle at noon. And the Lions Club will be having their annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday April 8th from 10am to noon on the front lawn of City Hall. The Health and Wellness Fair is reschedule to April 12, 2023 from 5 to 8pm. And coming April 22, 2023, the Centennial Committee is holding the Flashback Dance from 6:30 to 10pm at Perry Auditorium.
MART Survey
MART is conducting a survey regarding their service to area communities. Link to Survey. There’s a QR Code so you can easily do the survey with your phone.
Sponsorships
The Mayor spoke of flower pot and banner sponsorships, and he also spoke of the fundraising of the Gardner Centennial Committee stating, “The City Centennial Committee has also released sponsorship opportunities for the several different events that are happening this year in relation to the Centennial Celebration. What these sponsorships go towards is paying for different acts to perform in the parade that we have. I think the most expensive act that we have is coming at a cost of $20,000…..You’ll see that the Centennial committee is going to be putting out a mass mailer as well, that really shows off the different events that are happening throughout the course of the year.”
Business Openings
Mayor Nicholson also noted that Gardner Spirits is open at its new location on East Broadway, JPs Barber Shop is open on Pleasant Street, and Scott’s Nutrition is open on Main Street.
- Mayor’s Update 3-17-23 (3/17/2023)
View the Mayor’s Update on our Mayor’s Update page, or listen here on any device.
Mayor’s Update 3-17-23 Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson Updates the Chair City with 3 R’s: Recapping, Reminding, and Recruiting.
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Mayor’s Update March 17, 2023 Recapping the Storm
Mayor Nicholson Recapped the recent storm, reported the hard work of the DPW, reflected on the large amount of snow stating, “We haven’t seen a storm like this in a couple of decades in Gardner where we’ve gotten close to 1 yard of snow over a 24 hour period.”
Reminding Dates
Sunday March 19th at 11am – Easter Egg Hunt at the Gardner Fish and Gun Club
Community Action Team Health Fair will take place April 12, 2023 from 5 to 8pm at Perry Auditorium
Flashback Dance at Perry Auditorium on April 22, 2023 from 6:30pm to 10:00pm and adult beverages will be available.
American Cancer Society Annual “Light the Town Purple” Event Monday May 1, 2023 at 7pm in front of Gardner City Hall as a way of kicking off the “Relay for Life” which takes place in June.
Middle School Performance of Beauty and the Beast Junior takes place March 31, 2023 and April 1, 2023 at 7pm both evenings.
Recruiting Citizen Volunteers
Several storm drains and fire hydrants are still buried under the snow, “If you are able to, please feel free to go out and help us a whole City…to dig those out….Help the Gardner Fire Department by trying to shovel those out as best we can.”
Recruiting Sponsors
Flower pot program will consist of 250 flower pots throughout the City with sponsorships at $200 each for the 7 month period to cover costs – Sponsor gets name on a sign going in the pot. New Centennial themed banners also $200 and go up sometime in April and stay up for a year.
- Mayor’s Update 3-10-23 (3/10/2023)
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Focuses on FUN and more FUN in Weekly Update
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Mayor’s Update 3-10-23 Mayor Nicholson spoke of the FUN in the Arts, Music, and Athletic programs and mentioned the Rockwell Grants which have helped make improvements possible including programs curriculum, and facilities upgrades.
The Mayor previewed the FUN happening at the Flashback Dance on Saturday April 22, 2023 from 6;30pm to 10pm in Perry Auditorium. And the FUN with health at the Health and Wellness Fair happening Wednesday March 15 from 5 to 8pm at Perry Auditorium.
And Mayor Nicholson spoke of the FUN of the first performance of a musical at Gardner Elementary School – “Musicman Junior.” And the FUN when the “Little Shop of Horrors” will be at Gardner High School March 16th through 18th. and more FUN when the Gardner Middle School puts on their performance of Beauty and the Beast on March 31st and April 1st.
And a reminder, have FUN setting your clocks forward on Sunday March 12th for Daylight Savings Time. And More FUN as Annunciation Parish is once again doing their Lenten Fish Frys in the City this year at Holy Spirit Parish in South Gardner – every Friday from 5 to 7pm until Easter.
- Update 3-3-23 (3/3/2023)
Update 3-3-23 Colin Smith Updates Gardner MA with Congrats, Facts, and Dates
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Mayor’s Update 3-3-23 Congrats: Filling in for Mayor Nicholson and also congratulating him on the reason for his absence, (the receipt of the Music Advocate Award), Executive Aide to the Mayor Colin Smith updated the Chair City. Congrats to GHS Hockey Team on great season, Girls and Boys Basketball teams on winning first round of playoff, Magnus Carlberg of Wachusett Incubator, and Dr. Moses Dixon on appointment to Governor’s Advisory Council on Black Empowerment. And a thank you to the DPW.
Facts: City has spent $720,000 so far this year on snow removal. Salt is the major expense, now going for $95/ton versus $65/ton in 2020. 250 are already registered for Summer Camp, many great programs still available.
Dates: Dog License registration due by March 31st. Gardner Community Action Team putting on Health Fair on March 15, 2023 – vendor space still available. Gardner City Council meeting on March 6, 2023. Kindergarten Registration will be going on, need to be 5 years old on or before August 1, 2023. (See Kindergarten article for dates and complete information flyer.)
- Mayor’s Update 2-24-23 (2/24/2023)
Watch the Mayor’s Update on our Mayor’s Update page or listen here on any device. Click Play.
Mayor’s Update 2-24-23 Check Your Dates – Weekly Update with Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Update of February 24, 2023 is filled with due dates, reminder dates, and event dates. For all the details, listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s Update February 24, 2023 Dates Mentioned in the Update
Levi Heywood Memorial Library Book Sale February 24 and 25 Wednesday March 1, 2023 at 9:30am – Gardner Domestic Violence Task Force event for Teen Dating Violence Prevention and Awareness Month. Excise Taxes due March 2, 2023 – If needed, notify Registry of Motor Vehicles of new address and location where car is garaged. Dog Licenses due March 31, 2023 Charter Review Committee held first public hearing. Send citizen comments regarding the Charter to CSmith@Gardner-MA.gov Louise Murphy of Gardner celebrates her 100th birthday on Saturday. This weekend – Gardner Wildcat Basketball and Ice Hockey players awaiting State Playoff schedules Issuance of official Proclamation for Black History Month – signed by Councilor Dana Heath, Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas, and Mayor Michael Nicholson
- Mayor’s Update 2-17-23 (2/17/2023)
Mayor’s Update 2-17-23 February 17, 2023 is National Random Act of Kindness Day. Thank you for being kind.
Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Recognizes Progress in Weekly Update
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Mayor’s Update 2-17-23 In his weekly update of February 17, 2023, Mayor Nicholson recognized the progress of about a dozen students who were inducted this past week in to the Chair City Chapter of the National Honor Society. He also recognized the achievement of choral program students from Gardner’s Elementary, Middle, and High Schools who put on a joint concert together. For other progress in Gardner Public Schools, view this article.
Summer Camp Registration
The Mayor reported on the progress of the Summer Camp program registration which has about a 100 people already signed up. Registrations are still open. See Previous article for details, CLICK HERE.
Progress with Properties
Mayor Nicholson detailed the various properties the City has for sale and how you can buy one. See Previous article with complete contact details, CLICK HERE.
Progress with City Charter Review
The Mayor spoke of progress with the City Charter review and spoke of the Public Hearing taking place February 23, 2023 at 4pm. In advance of the hearing, citizens can mail ideas to the Mayor’s office or email csmith@Gardner-MA.gov See complete article on the topic, click here.
- Mayor’s Update 2-10-23 (2/10/2023)
View the Mayor’s Update on our Mayor’s Update page of listen here on any device. Click Play.
Mayor’s Update 2-10-23 Looking Forward, Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson Updates the Chair City in Optimistic Message
In a forward-looking update, Gardner Mayor Nicholson updated the Chair City on February 10, 2023. Listen on any device. Click Play.
Mayor’s Update 2-10-23 Forward with People: Mayor Congratulated Paul Tassone on his election to Ward 3 City Councilor, Patricia Bergstrom and Rick Walton to appointments as Trustees of Mount Wachusett Community College, and LUK Inc. on their 10th anniversary.
Forward with Zoning: Public Welfare Committee will have 3 Zoning proposals: (1) add Sports Betting to Zoning Code per State Law to allow “smart location within the City.” (2) consider increasing cap of cannabis establishments from 2 to 4 and (3) change zoning for safety reasons in small corridor of Route 140 in between Green Street and Winchendon border.
Forwarding Success: Will submit proposal to City Council to Get “most as we can” as it pertains to Grant Funds by hiring a grant consultant due to the sheer number of grants available right now.
Future Events: Downtown Banners and Flower Pots will open up sponsorships soon. City Wide Yard Sale taking place on May 20, 2023. Library Book Sale on February 24th and 25th. Gardner Museum programming starts back up on March 1st.
- Mayor’s Update 2-3-23 (2/3/2023)
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Mayor’s Update 2-3-23 Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Delivers Warm Message on Cold Day –“Stay Warm Everyone”
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Mayor’s Update 2-3-23 Gardner Mayor Nicholson thanked the students of Holy Family Academy stating, “They dropped off some thank you cards to my office. I had the pleasure of joining all of their classrooms this past week…” The Mayor is an alumnus of the school.
The Mayor extended warm wishes to Officer John Lawrence who is retiring as of today. Officer Lawrence served as the School Resource Officer.
A warm welcome was extended to incoming Airport Manager Isabelle Davis, who is a pilot and owns 2 planes herself and has a Master’s Degree in Computer Science.
The Mayor had a warm reminder that excise tax bills went out and it is the responsibility of the taxpayer to contact the Treasurer – Collector’s office if a bill is not received, and that dog license applications and the City’s annual census have been sent out by the City Clerk’s office.
Mayor Nicholson stated once again that the Building Department will be doing its multi-family inspections. For more information on that, here’s a link to the Gardner Building Department page, CLICK HERE.
