Gardner Magazine

News Around Greater Gardner MA

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• WGAW Hotline Radio 5-2-26

  

  Both Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and Council President George Tyros appear on WGAW Hotline Radio

  Listen to the WGAW Hotline Radio Show of 5-2-26 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Mayor Michael Nicholson: A discussion of the Gardner City budget and how the school portion is funded primarily by Chapter 70 from the State of MA with the School budget hearing coming up on May 11th. Nicholson gave “kudos to Council President George Tyros and Disability Commission Chair Anne Hurst” for the new seating arrangement in the City Council Chambers. Other discussions: Maki Park, pedestrian and bike bridge over Route 140, the Mayor’s campaign for State Rep, the MBTA and other transportation, and the 90th Anniversary of the Gardner Municipal Golf Course. Mayor Nicholson hit a golf ball at 9:15am on Saturday May 2nd just as Mayor Timpany did 90 years ago.

  Council President George Tyros: Tyros spoke about the Municipal salary scale which is now structured and more transparent saying that it is better for City employees, helps retain talent, and aids in recruitment. “We have a comprehensive pay ordinance now.” The Council President spoke of changes to the signage ordinance which now makes it easier for businesses to put up signs. “We want to encourage businesses to come to town.” Other topics discussed included appointments, Monument Park, the City Council Chamber layout, the budget, “It’s going to be a tough year.”, the resignation of City Clerk Titi Siriphan effective July 2nd. Tyros praised Director Brandon Hughey of the City’s popular new Youth Center stating, “I thank Director Hughey for his hard work.”

  Host Steve Wendell commented on the listeners who tune to the live stream from various countries around the world. Werner Poegel gave a comprehensive report on Gardner’s Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces. Wendell gave an update on the Urban Terrorist attack on the station. Mike Urban commented on the waste in State government.

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• Mayor Michael Nicholson Update 5-1-26

  

  Important Note: For a very limited time, the City of Gardner is suspending fines for overdue Dog Licensing (due March 31st). Right now, regular rates apply with no fine or penalty , but that won’t last long. View the comprehensive infographic for important dates.

  A Mayor’s Update packed with information, news, and events with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

  Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  In this official update of May 1 2026, the Mayor of Gardner, Michael Nicholson, highlights a variety of community events and civic achievements scheduled for the spring season. The address begins by honoring local award recipients, specifically recognizing individuals and businesses for their contributions to public service and safety. Residents are informed of upcoming recreational opportunities, including the reopening of the farmers market, summer concert series, and specialized youth programs like the Junior Police Academy now named the Rocky Barrieau Memorial Junior Police Academy. Furthermore, the update serves as a guide for municipal services, providing essential details on yard waste collection, dog licensing, and public meetings regarding city infrastructure planning including the Vision Zero Safety Plan, the Municipal Surplus Property Plan, and the City Master Plan. The Mayor concludes by celebrating the academic success of local graduates and encouraging ongoing citizen engagement in beautification projects like the annual planting day.

  Infographic provides a category listing of the various categories in the jam-packed update.

  

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• Struggles and Solutions: Templeton and Winchendon

  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Templeton’s FY27 Strategy: Maintaining Essential Services

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Differentiating the Objectives between Templeton and Winchendon

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

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

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

  Templeton:

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

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

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

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• Safety Action Plan 4-29-26

  

  The infographic below illustrates some data, includes a comprehensive safety analysis, the project framework, and various factors.

  Gardner’s Safety Action Plan Discussed at April 29th Meeting

  Listen to the entire meeting on any device. There’s a presentation along with citizen comments.

  This public meeting was both a presentation of the City of Gardner’s Safety Action Plan and an information-gathering forum with comments from local residents. The City’s Vision Zero Safety Action Plan is being funded by a Federal grant with the goal of eliminating traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries.

  The meeting was led by Gardner City Engineer Rob Oliva and a team of consultants. The presentation outlines recent data trends over a 5 year period, noting 2500 crashes and 12 deaths. Specific high-risk areas highlighted included Main Street and Route 140. During the session, residents shared personal accounts of frequent accidents and expressed concerns regarding poor lighting, high vehicle speeds, and inadequate infrastructure. Over the next year, the City aims to develop a comprehensive blueprint that endures safer travel for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

  

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• Council President Update 4-30-26

  

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

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

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

  Additionally, the update notes the confirmation of new volunteers to local boards and the commencement of budget preparations for the upcoming fiscal year. These collective efforts reflect a focus on administrative efficiency and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

  

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• Question for the Mayor

  

  A Hypothetical and Ridiculous Question for the Mayor of Gardner

  Gardner Magazine has postulated the following question to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson.

  What would be most exciting? 1. Meeting space aliens at the Gardner Dog Park 2. Meeting with Donald Trump at the White House regarding Gardner as the “Model City for America” or 3. Sharing a meal of roast beef and cornmeal pancakes with President George Washington. (Washington’s favorite foods) 4. Landing on terraformed Mars at a Mars Colony with Elon Musk

  Gardner Magazine will let you know when and if Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson responds to our ridiculous question.

  The scenarios depicted in the images are fictional, intended to demonstrate how realistic AI can be.

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• Economic Development 4-29-26

  

  Improvements, Updates, Transitions and Future Plans Focus of Economic and Community Development Session.

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

  
  The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met to discuss several key urban improvements and organizational shifts. A major focus is the Waterford Community Center, where a transition plan is being drafted to move the senior center and accommodate new tenants like the disability commission and Gardner Educational television. Local officials emphasized making the building ADA compliant and accessible while expanding parking by removing old playground equipment.

  Additionally, the committee received updates on the completion of safety repairs at Maki Park and the progress of the Rear Main street project, which aims to provide new green space and public parking by July. The meeting concluded with a look at upcoming municipal plans regarding surplus property and housing production scheduled for completion this summer.

  

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• Appointments 4-28-26

  

  Personnel and Administrative Matters – Resignation of Titi Siriphan, City Clerk, Focus of Appointments Committee Meeting

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

  
  The Gardner Appointments Committee met on April 28, 2026, to manage various personnel and administrative matters for the city. During the session, members reviewed the reappointment of a board of assessors member and tracked the progress of several other appointees awaiting their official oaths. Significant discussion centered on updated job descriptions for the human resource, youth center, and city clerk positions, though the committee requested more time to compare these changes against original documents.

  The committee also addressed the resignation of the current city clerk (effective July 2nd) and discussed improving the tracking of 90-day confirmation windows. To streamline future operations, members explored new methods for contacting volunteer appointees and scheduling interviews for upcoming meetings. The meeting concluded with a look ahead at a busy May schedule intended to finalize numerous municipal roles.

  

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• Finances of the City

  

  Updates, Challenges, Costs, and Negotiations Discussed at Finance Committee Meeting

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

  
  The Gardner Finance Committee met on April 27, 2026, to discuss various municipal updates, starting with the City Clerk’s positive report on the successful implementation of electronic poll pads during recent elections. The committee reviewed challenges related to genealogy requests, increasing postage costs for the city census, and technical difficulties with birth and death record systems.

  Mayor Michael Nicholson provided updates regarding a spending freeze, the ongoing FY 2027 budget process, and a proposed Chief of Staff position intended to streamline administrative duties. Additional discussions focused on utility rate increases necessitated by urgent repairs at the Snake Pond and Pearly Brook water facilities. The meeting also addressed health insurance negotiations, where most unions recommended maintaining current plans despite a 12.5% premium increase. Finally, the committee received an update on the Lifeline senior alert program, which is currently operating with a financial surplus and minimal staff impact.

  More Details:

  • Financial & Budgetary Outlook: The FY 2027 citywide budget is currently delayed, pending a mandatory public hearing by the school committee on May 11. The Mayor indicated that roughly 40% of the total budget is tied to the school department, preventing a full submission until their figures are finalized.
  • Infrastructure & Enterprise Funds: A proposed multi-year water rate increase—starting with a 20% hike—is deemed necessary to stabilize the water enterprise fund and address $300,000+ in immediate, “big-ticket” repairs at Snake Pond and Pearly Brook.
  • Health Insurance: The Insurance Advisory Commission (IAC) has recommended a 12.5% premium increase with no changes to insurance plans, a decision largely supported by city unions pending a final check-in with the teachers’ union.
  • Election Administration: The City Clerk’s office successfully integrated electronic poll pads during recent elections, resulting in increased efficiency and positive feedback from poll workers, despite state laws prohibiting the mandatory collection of IDs.
  • Administrative Proposals: Debates continue regarding a new “Chief of Staff” position for the Mayor’s office and the acquisition of new technology (tablets/laptops) for City Council members to address hardware failures.

  The City Clerk reported the successful certification of the September mayoral primary and the November general election. A central highlight was the deployment of electronic poll pads after three years of ownership.

  • Functionality: The tablets contain citywide electronic voter lists. They allow poll workers to locate voters by the first three letters of their names, preventing “goose chases” by instantly identifying the correct precinct for misdirected voters.
  • ID Scanning: While state law forbids asking for identification, poll workers may scan an ID if a voter offers it voluntarily. This process pre-populates voter data and eliminates the need for manual “checkout” paperwork.
  • Training: Of 95 poll workers contacted, 75 attended mandatory training sessions. The Clerk noted that even non-tech-savvy workers found the pads easy to use after hands-on sessions.

  Vital Records and Genealogy Trends: The Clerk’s office has experienced a significant increase in workload related to genealogy and record amendments.

  • Canadian Citizenship Surge: A new Canadian law allows individuals to claim dual citizenship if they can trace ancestry through grandparents or great-grandparents. This has led to “lines out the door” for genealogy research.
  • Record Integrity Issues: Research is hindered by old paper records (dating back to 1908) written in faded cursive. There is frequent confusion regarding “French” naming conventions (e.g., individuals named John or Maria who went by middle names), necessitating time-consuming record amendments.
  • Hospital Errors: The Clerk reported a rise in errors from hospitals (including Haywood and others), such as misspelled names or incorrect genders on birth records. Correcting these errors requires a lengthy legal amendment process.

  Municipal Claims and Licensing

  • Insurance Claims: There has been a recent increase in claims for pothole and tire damage, specifically regarding the Pearl Street rotary. Claims must be filed through the Clerk’s office by statute before being transmitted to the Treasurer and insurance providers.
  • Dog Licensing: The office is utilizing “Open Gov” for online licensing. Late fees and citations have been temporarily suspended while the office catches up on a backlog of online orders.
  • Census: 2026 census forms were mailed in February; second notices are due June 1. Rising postage costs are a noted budgetary concern.

  

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• Chestnut St. UMC – May ’26

  

  Gardner Magazine would be pleased to feature your church or non-profit in an article. Simply send the info to News@GardnerMagazine.com.

  Spiritual and Operational Priorities of the Chestnut Street United Methodist Church – May 2026

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

  CLICK on the graphic for a larger view of the important topics and dates. Important Dates: May 2026 – May 31st: Memorial Day – May 1st: May Day –May 3rd: Baptism of Winston, Pierce, and Asia (10 am service) – May 7th: Gardner Health Fair (5-7 pm)-May 10th: Mother’s Day – May 20th: FREE Community Supper (5:30-7 pm) at the church, featuring spaghetti and meatballs – May 30th: Winchendon Montapalooza Music Festival –
  May 31st: Memorial Day

  The following biblical texts serve as the framework for the church’s May focus:

  • 1 Peter 3:15: Revering Christ as Lord and being prepared to defend hope with gentleness.
  • Romans 12:2: Resisting worldly patterns through the renewing of the mind.
  • Philippians 3:14: Pressing toward the goal of the heavenly prize.
  • Colossians 3:10: Putting on a “new self” renewed in the image of the Creator.
  • John 15:5: Recognizing that apart from Christ, human effort is fruitless.

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• Assessor 4-27-26

  UPDATE 4-29-26 2pm: Issue has been resolved. The Board of Assessors is back in the workflow loop. Participation in the workflow allows the Assessor to identify upcoming projects and calculate “new growth” for valuation purposes which is essential for the City of Gardner.

  

  Assessors Meeting Reveals Critical Workflow Breakdown – Problem Unresolved as of April 27th

  Listen to the entire 6 minute meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a procedural failure involving the Building Department’s permitting system.

  Role of the Assessor’s Office

  The Assessor’s office is a vital component of the building permit workflow for two primary reasons:

  1. Good Standing Confirmation: The office supplies owner information and personal property account data. This allows the city (specifically civil enforcement and the treasurer-collector’s office) to verify if an applicant is in “good standing.” If taxes (excise or personal property) or citations are owed, the permit is halted until payment is made.
  2. Tracking New Growth: Participation in the workflow allows the Assessor to identify upcoming projects and calculate “new growth” for valuation purposes.

  Timeline of the Workflow Omission

  • February 2026: The Building Commissioner notified department heads of intended changes to the permitting system and offered meetings. The Assessor did not meet at that time as there were no current issues.
  • March 26, 2026: The administrative coordinator noticed a cessation of permit approvals, which usually arrive at a rate of several per day. The Assessor’s office queried the change.
  • April 21, 2026: Following a lack of resolution, the Mayor sent an email to the involved departments to address the bottleneck.
  • April 22, 2026: The Building Commissioner met with the Assessor, assuring that the office would be restored to the workflow.
  • April 27, 2026 (Meeting Date): The issue remains unresolved. The Assessor’s office is currently discovering permits only through incidental contact with other departments.

  Root Cause and Impact

  The Assessor noted that the Building Commissioner likely did not understand the specific necessity of the Assessor’s presence in the workflow. The omission has removed a key mechanism for the city to collect outstanding taxes and has hindered the Assessor’s ability to track new developments systematically.

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• Williams Rockwell 2026

  

  Printable letter size version of above 2026 Williams-Rockwell Gift Awards, CLICK HERE

  Awards sorted by amount, Word Doc CLICK HERE,,—PDF CLICK HERE. — Spreadsheet CLICK HERE

  Williams-Rockwell 2026 Education Gift Awards Detailed

  On April 21, 2026, the City of Gardner announced the distribution of $240,331.62 in grants from the Williams-Rockwell Education Gift Fund. This 2026 funding cycle supports 31 distinct projects across the Gardner Public School System, aimed at enhancing the academic, athletic, and artistic experiences of students. Listen to this “Deep Dive” discussion with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady going over it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Established in 2014 through the sale of Norman Rockwell’s painting “Willie Gillis in the Convoy,” the fund serves as a permanent endowment, utilizing interest and capital gains to provide financial assistance for initiatives that fall outside the standard school budget. To date, the fund has awarded a cumulative total of $851,464.17. The 2026 grants prioritize innovation in classroom technology, literacy, specialized musical equipment, and unique cultural field trips.

  Potential applicants, or those seeking more information about the Williams-Rockwell Committee, are encouraged to reach out to the Gardner Mayor’s Office with any questions. 

  Fund Origin and Governance

  The Williams-Rockwell Education Gift Fund represents a strategic investment in the city’s youth, derived from a significant cultural asset.

  • Foundation: The fund was created following the 2014 auction of the Norman Rockwell painting “Willie Gillis in the Convoy.”
  • Funding Mechanism: The City endowed the sale proceeds, and the committee awards up to 90% of the annual investment income (interest and capital gains) as grants.
  • Mandate: Governing statutes require that awards be distributed across three primary areas: arts, athletics, and academics.
  • Process: Applications open annually in December, with awards announced in the early spring of the following year.

  2026 Funding Themes and Project Impacts

  The 2026 grant cycle demonstrates a commitment to diverse educational enhancements, categorized by several core themes:

  STEM and Technical Education

  Significant investment was made in “cutting-edge classroom tools” and vocational preparation.

  • Robotics and 3D Technology: Upgrades to 3D printing equipment (22,342.84)and the purchase of a 3D scanner (750) support STEM and Makerspace instruction for grades 8–12.
  • Biotechnology: Funding for sterilization equipment allows students to explore medical field techniques and classroom labs.
  • Health Science: A “Facial Analyzer Skin Scanner” was funded to educate students and staff on UV sun damage.

  Arts and Music Enrichment

  The fund continues to support the district’s robust music and visual arts programs.

  • Infrastructure: A $12,840.30 grant provides a permanent AV system for the GHS music room, including hanging microphones and a sound recording console.
  • Instrumentation: Multiple grants funded specialized instruments including a Sousaphone (10,571.21),a Piccolo, and a “Full Instrumentation “project for the middle school(13,510) featuring Euphoniums and French Horns.
  • Visual Arts: Projects include a new portable drying rack for art classes and materials to enhance fine motor skills through manipulative-based learning.

  Literacy and Communication

  Grants were allocated to foundational skills and inclusive communication.

  • Tactile Literacy: $15,853.90 was awarded for Literacy Tile Work Boards to help grades 1–4 with word building and spelling patterns.
  • Inclusion: AAC Communication Boards were funded for art rooms and gyms to support non-verbal students.
  • Literacy Challenge: Funding for books and supplies to encourage district-wide reading engagement.

  Cultural Experiences and Student Life

  The fund facilitates experiences that many students might otherwise be unable to afford.

  • Field Trips: Major trips include a Senior Class Trip to Pennsylvania (28,400),a trip to see Hamilton on Broadway (27,500), and visits to the Hanover Theater for performances of The Giver and A Christmas Carol.
  • Support for Disadvantaged Students: Gardner Academy received $3,532.50 to ensure that economically disadvantaged students can participate in graduation celebrations.
  • Multi-Lingual Support: A learning experience at Polar Park was funded specifically for recent immigrant, multi-lingual learners to build language skills in an authentic setting.

  Key Stakeholder Perspectives

  Mayor Michael J. Nicholson: “Each year, the Williams-Rockwell Educational Gift Fund allows us to elevate the educational experience for Gardner students… These projects—from cutting-edge classroom tools to enriching trips and opportunities—represent our district’s commitment to inspiring every learner.”

  Dr. Mark Pellegrino, Superintendent of Public Schools: “The Rockwell Fund enhances the experiences of our students in ways that we could not afford otherwise. This fund provides our students with unique field trip experiences; specialized equipment to enhance curricular activities and learning; and improved facilities that strengthen wildcat pride!”

  Doug Lepisto, Gardner High School Band Teacher: “Being able to record students’ playing and singing during rehearsals will provide feedback to help them hear their progress and continue to grow.”

  

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• Hubbardston Sofa Caper

  

  Hubbardston Sofa Caper Solved – Suspects Summoned to Court

  On April 8th, Hubbardston Police reported that the furniture shown in the graphic was illegally dumped in the area of Old Princeton Road and Worcester road that afternoon. The photo of the vehicle allegedly involved in the incident was posted by the Hubbardston PD the following day.

  Two weeks later, Hubbardston Police has stated that “after a thorough investigation, Sergeant Donald Blood was able to identify the two individuals responsible for dumping the sectional sofa just off Worcester Rd. in Hubbardston.” A 25 year old man and a 26 year old man, both from Lawrence, MA have been summoned to Gardner District Court for the alleged illegal dumping. According to the Hubbardston PD, the men were identified by the owner of the company they were working for.

  Good news: Another company has stepped up and donated its time and resources to clean up and properly dispose of the sectional at no cost to the town of Hubbardston. “The Hubbardston Police Department would like to sincerely thank R.M.G. Services for cleaning up and properly disposing of the debris from the illegal dumping on 4/08/2026 on their own time and at their expense.”

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• Airport 4-26-26

  

  Airport Commission Meeting on April 26, 2026 centered on a proposed Boston RC Jet Club Operational Agreement.

  Airport Commission Meets Regarding Boston RC Jet Club Proposed Usage Agreement

  Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  This special meeting of the Gardner Airport Commission regarded a proposal by the Boston RC Jet Club to operate high-performance model aircraft at the facility. Commission members and club representatives discussed operational logistics, such as the placement of a storage container, the implementation of spill kits, and the necessity of specialized CO2 fire extinguishers. A significant portion of the debate centered on the annual fee, with the commission eventually proposing a discounted rate of $3,500 for the first year to encourage the club’s establishment. Safety concerns are raised regarding the potential interference with full-sized aircraft, leading to a consensus on a probationary period and strict communication protocols for posting flight notices. The meeting concludes with an agreement to seek legal review from the city solicitor before finalizing the contract.

  

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• Gardner Museum 4-30-26 Event

  

  Reserve by sending an email to Info@GardnerMuseumInc.com

  The Joy of Everyday Garden Vegetables Revealed at the Gardner Museum

  The Gardner Museum on Pearl Street in Gardner MA is having an evening with author, traveler, and plant lover Varla Ventura as she presents “The Cottage Garden of Earthly Delights” Thursday, April 30, at 7 pm (reception at 6:30 pm).

  The Gardner Museum wrote: “Perfectly timed with the start of the planting season, this engaging talk invites you on a journey through the surprising lore of everyday garden vegetables. When we think of magic in fairy tales, cabbages don’t usually come to mind, but perhaps they should! From garlic’s connection to vampires to the unexpected role corn played in fueling vampire hysteria, and even the curious controversy surrounding turnips, you’ll never look at your garden the same way again. Drawing from folklore, history, and a deep love of the natural world, Varla brings these common plants to life with uncommon stories. Take a stroll through the kitchen garden and uncover the hidden meanings, myths, and mysteries growing right beneath our feet. This is an ideal program for gardeners, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the folklore of the natural world.“

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• News Roundup 4-26-26

  

  News Roundup: Greater Gardner MA, North Central MA, Massachusetts News, U.S. National News, and World News Developments

  Greater Gardner MA News is found on our home page.

  Other news sections on lower on the home page: JUMP TO: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week

  Other News Sections

   Top 50 Interviews – Original Songs – Hotline Radio Shows –City Council – School Committee – DEEP DIVE podcasts – Editorial and Commentary – SPECIAL EVENTS —-FOCUS on Non-Profits — Gardner MAgazine Reports: 

  This is our way of helping you keep in touch with the world around you. Have a news story idea or like to promote your non-profit? Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com or call our voicemail line at (978) 632-6324.

  

  

  

  

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• Music – 1910 to 3000

  

  Gardner Magazine American Music History Project

  An incredible page has been completed which chronicles Music in America from the 1910s to the 2030s and beyond with lots of engaging graphics and narrative plus a great video too. CLICK HERE for complete page.

  Listen to this complete and extensive podcast on American Music through the decades featuring the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Listen to this debate on the future of music in America with Max and Maxine Rogers on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Jump to a section on the page: Bands, Vocalists and Groups by decade 1910s,1920s, 1930s, 1940s, Big Bands ,1950s,1960s,1970s,1980s,1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s, — Projected 2030s — From Playlists to Neural Streams —Music of the Future – Century of Music Evolution – Images of the music of the 1500s, 1600s — Images of the music of the 1700s, 1800s

  CLICK HERE for complete page.

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• Hotline 4-25-26

  

  Terrorist Attack on WGAW – Update with the Mayor – DEA Drug Takeback – MVOC’s Marchetti – WBI’s Carlberg – Fitzgerald on Energy

  The WGAW Hotline Radio program on April 25, 2026 started off with an ominous story by Steve Wendell of an Urban Terrorist Attack on the radio station which took down the FM portion of the station for the better part of 3 days last week. Culprits are being sought by the FBI and the Gardner PD for a very serious Federal offense and a $20,000 reward is offered. Penalty upon conviction is 10 years in prison, 5 years Probation, $250,000 in fines, and restitution to the radio station. Gardner PD is analyzing forensic evidence found at the site.

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

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about potholes in the City with the Pothole Patrol being out this week filling potholes. The Mayor spoke on the various phases of the Rear Main Street Project with the current phase including parking and an events plaza with housing coming next. Also on housing, Nicholson went over Tiny Houses, Accessory Dwelling Units, and the City’s Surplus Property Plan. The Mayor is still out getting signatures for his bid for State Representative.

  Host Steve Wendell interviewed Stephanie Marchetti – Director of the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center – A private non-profit which has been providing support services to veterans for over 40 years. Marchetti describes the services offered to veterans. Website:

  Sean Fitzgerald commented on Energy Costs in Massachusetts and why the switch to electric has caused residents money. Fitzgerald interviews residents who have had huge electric bills since switching and are not happy.

  DEA Drug Takeback Day – Commentary and Report by Werner Poegel on why it is so dangerous to keep expired and unused medications. Drop off medications 24/7 at the Gardner Police station and at Walgreen’s or CVS during their operating hours.

  Steve Wendell Interviewed Magnus Carlberg of the Wachusett Business Incubator. The WBI was started in 2014. Help is offered to almost any business. Website: (978) 707-9900

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• Monument Park 2026

  

  Monument Park will be filled with music from June to August in Gardner MA

  The 2026 Concert List is out, Here’s a printable version of the article graphic, CLICK HERE. – This year there’s a rain date for every concert except for one. The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the upcoming season. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  The 2026 Bandstand Concert Series is a scheduled program of ten musical performances running from June 20, 2026, through August 29, 2026 at Monument Park in Gardner. The series is characterized by a heavy emphasis on tribute acts and classic rock genres. Key operational takeaways include a consistent Saturday evening performance window—which shifts one hour earlier in mid-August—and a standardized rain date policy for nearly all scheduled events.

  Update: 5-1-26: Band was changed for the August 1st date and is reflected in the graphic and in the chart below.

  2026 Bandstand Concert Series at Monument Park

  Concert Date	Time	Rain Date (2pm-4pm)	Band Name	Type of Music
  6/20/2026	6pm – 8pm	6/21/2026	Tru Diamond	Neil Diamond Tribute
  6/27/2026	6pm – 8pm	6/28/2026	Gold Dust Refugee	Tom Petty/Fleetwood Mac
  7/11/2026	6pm – 8pm	7/12/2026	The Remedy	Tribute
  7/18/2026	6pm – 8pm	7/19/2026	Traveling Homebodies	Folk, Classic Rock, Country
  7/25/2026	6pm – 8pm	7/26/2026	David Malouin	Country Oldies & Classic Rocks
  8/1/2026	6pm – 8pm	8/2/2026	Holdin’ Back the 60’s	Music of the 60’s
  8/8/2026	6pm – 8pm	8/9/2026	Mr. Strickland	Classic Rock
  8/15/2026	5pm – 7pm	8/16/2026	The Long Run	Eagle Tribute
  8/22/2026	5pm – 7pm	No Rain Date	4Ever Fab	Beatles
  8/29/2026	5pm – 7pm	8/30/2026	The Random Band	Classic Rock

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• Public Safety 4-24-26

  

  Fire, Building, and Health Department Updates at Public Safety Meeting

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

  Fire Department: Significant budget overages in overtime and vehicle maintenance. New safety grants funded radios. One-year delay for a critical new ladder. Resignation of firefighter leaves an opening.

  Building Department: Fully staffed which has successfully reduced permit review timelines fo rlocal projects.

  Health Department: Details are shared on landfill infrastructure repairs, tobacco compliance violations, and upcoming community wellness events.

  

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• ZBA 4-22-26

  

  Development, Discipline, and Dimensional Variances Subject of Lively Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting

  
  The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) meeting on April 22, 2026, focused on a diverse range of applications, including residential renovations, telecommunications infrastructure, and dimensional variances. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Key outcomes included the approval of a revised parking and drainage plan for a multi-unit residential project at 63 Walnut Street and the granting of a frontage variance for a single-family dwelling at 0 Stuart. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a proposed 130-foot “monopine” cell tower at the local Walmart, which was ultimately continued pending a site visit to address public safety concerns regarding the “fall zone.” The board also enforced administrative discipline, refusing to hear a case due to unpaid fees and lack of required documentation.

  

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• Westminster – May 2026

  

  Westminster MA Civic, Government, and Community Events for May 2026

  The Westminster South Street Sentinel May 2026 edition, CLICK HERE, details various civic and community events scheduled for the Spring and Summer of 2026.

  Important Dates: Annual Town Election is April 28th and the Annual Town Meeting is May 2nd.

  Westminster is looking for a full-time town clerk and has posted that position. Residents are reminded of critical deadlines for voter registration, dog licensing, and property tax payments. Local health and safety initiatives were outlined including an informational meeting regarding PFAS water testing and updates on the Adams Street 40B Housing Project. Cultural and social opportunities include the Historical Society’s plant swap, a town-wide yard sale, and various programs hosted by the Forbush Library and Senior Center. There are updates from the Police Department, Public Works, and the local school district which we have included in our infographic below.

  

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• Relay Team Leaders

  

  Real People – Real Stories – The Greater Gardner Relay for Life

  At a recent Team meeting, Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel spoke with some real people who had real stories about why they are involved with the Greater Gardner Relay for Life. Listen to our report on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Greater Gardner Relay for Life is coming up on Friday June 12 and Saturday June 13th at Mount Wachusett Community College. To find out more. To start a team. To join a team. To make a contribution. Here’s the website, CLICK HERE.

  The Gardner Magazine “Everyday is Purple” Campaign is very simple – creating greater awareness of the Greater Gardner Relay for Life to encourage greater participation. While the ledger might define the Relay as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, its true architecture is built from something far more resilient. As our report captures in conversation, the Relay is a living archive – a story of the human spirit written by those who refuse to let the shadow of cancer go unchallenged. The Relay’s success is found in the enduring, often exhausting, and deeply personal commitments of local neighbors. Some people have been involved for decades. We urge you to get involved with this great cause. Here’s the website, CLICK HERE.

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• Michael Nicholson 4-22-26 Interview

  

  INTERVIEW: Candidate for State Representative Michael Nicholson

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

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson is a candidate for the State Representative seat in the 2nd Worcester district, aiming to succeed the long-serving Jon Zlotnik.

  • Motivation for Candidacy: Nicholson cites a record number of communities facing Proposition 2 ½ overrides and making “bone-deep” budget cuts rather than just “cutting fat.” He argues that Beacon Hill requires voices with direct local municipal experience to hit the ground running.
  • Endorsement and Succession: Outgoing Representative Jonathan Zlotnik has endorsed Nicholson. The two share a long history; Nicholson previously interned for Zlotnik’s office ten years ago and spoke at Zlotnik’s 2020 campaign launch.
  • District Focus: While currently Mayor of Gardner, Nicholson emphasizes his past role as Town Administrator in Rutland as evidence that he understands the unique challenges of smaller, rural communities within the Second Worcester District.

  Michael Nicholson defines his approach to governance through the lens of human impact rather than abstract data.

  • Human-Centric Legislation: Nicholson asserts that behind every dollar sign and decimal point in a bill is a person waiting for a better quality of life. He argues that housing, infrastructure, and economic development must be viewed as tools to help families decide to stay in the region.
  • Regional Collaboration: He rejects the idea that communities exist in a vacuum. Under his philosophy, a new business in Templeton or a playground upgrade in Winchendon provides a “rising tide” that helps the entire North Central Massachusetts region by drawing in residents and boosting the collective economy.
  • Boots-on-the-Ground Perspective: He intends to maintain active engagement with the district by attending selectmen and school committee meetings in all constituent communities to ensure state support aligns with local needs

  The infographic below provides further details on key policy initiatives such as infrastructure, transportation, education, healthcare, housing, and economic development. Gardner Mayor Nicholson presents a background characterized by high academic achievement and diverse municipal experience.

  

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• City Council 4-21-26

  

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The Council voted to send a letter of appreciation to State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik who has announced his intention to leave his position at the end of this term.

  

  ---

• Nathan Boudreau Interview

  

  For more information on candidate Nathan Boudreau, visit his website, CLICK HERE.

  INTERVIEW: Candidate for State Representative Nate Boudreau

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

  Nathan Boudreau is a candidate for the State Representative seat in the 2nd Worcester district, aiming to succeed the long-serving Jon Zlotnik. Boudreau’s platform is centered on his identity as a “systems thinker” and reform-based leader with nearly 20 years of experience in municipal government and consulting. His primary objective is to address the misalignment between state funding formulas (specifically Chapter 90 for roads and Chapter 70 for schools) and the actual needs of local municipalities.

  Boudreau advocates for a data-driven, transparent approach to governance, emphasizing the use of technology and AI to streamline administrative processes and reinvest resources into constituent services. He argues that rural and regional communities—specifically Gardner, Templeton, Ashburnham, and Winchendon—are often marginalized by state mandates that lack corresponding financial support. His strategy involves moving beyond “speeches” to achieve measurable results in budgets, focusing on grant-writing assistance for smaller towns, infrastructure modernization, and human-centric approaches to mental health and public safety.

  

  ---

• Hotline Radio 4-18-26

  

  WGAW Hotline Radio Show Focuses on Politics on Saturday April 18, 2026

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

  First up on Hotline Radio: Gardner Mayor Nicholson explained his reason for choosing to run for State Representative given Jon Zlotnik’s decision not to run again. – Discussion turned to local issues including the Master Plan — The Mayor spoke on the budget and various changes being made to save money.

  David Pierce of Straightaway Records on Parker Street spoke briefly about Record Store Day

  In an Interview with Nate Boudreau, Candidate for State Representative. Boudreau spoke about his educational qualifications and his experience in local government. —John Reilly Jr., another candidate put out a statement on Facebook and the short AUDIO was played. — Commentary: Werner Poegel on Earth Day and Keep Gardner Beautiful. —

  Interview with Jon Zlotnik on his decision to not seek reelection this year. Zlotnik has served for 14 years. Zlotnik explained how he gained in interest in politics and told of first running for the position of State Representative. — To finish out the show: Comedy Routine: Abbott and Costello “Who’s on First”

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• Public Welfare 4-17-26

  

  Funding Crisis, Education, and Youth Focus of Public Welfare Committee Meeting

  The Gardner Public Welfare Committee met on Friday, April17, 2026 and heard from various local officials regarding the fiscal year 2027 School Budget and other matters. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  Local officials and educators describe a funding crisis driven by skyrocketing costs for health insurance, special education transportation, and out-of-district placements. Despite these financial hurdles, the Gardner Public Schools demonstrate high performance relative to their high percentage of low-income and high-need students.

  The presentation also includes updates from Monty Tech, highlighting its vocational training success, grant-funded improvements, and a new lottery-based admissions process. Finally, the committee reviewed a positive progress report on the Gardner Community Youth Center, noting increased student membership and successful community outreach events.

  

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• This Week 4-17-26

  

  Our Weekly News Magazine: This Week in the Chair City for Friday April 17, 2026

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

  In this week’s edition: Complete coverage of the announcement by State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik to not seek reelection and the 3 current candidates for the position including John Reilly Jr., Nathan Boudreau, and Michael Nicholson.

  Gardner’s Health Insurance Crisis, the $811,000 snow and ice deficit, proposed water rate hikes, the spending freeze, Chief of Staff (or Director of Facilities and Communications), Gardner Academy moving to High School in September, Senior Center preparing for move to Waterford, Officer of the Year, the Gardner 20 Year Master Plan, Signage Regulations, Development Projects, Golf Course Irrigation, Landfill Construction, Environmental Violations, Nuclear Reactors, Earth Day, Fire Risk, and upcoming meetings.

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• Reilly for State Rep

  

  Ashburnham Resident John Reilly Jr. Announces Run for State Representative

  John Reilly Jr. had decided to run for State Representative prior to Jonathan Zlotnik’s recent decision not to seek reelection. Reilly registered the domain name, reillyformass.com on March 9, 2026, CLICK HERE and has a Facebook page, CLICK HERE. Reilly released this statement on April 17, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Reilly’s website identifies a clear set of priorities for his tenure in the State House: Restoring Opportunity: Creating pathways for economic and personal growth within the district. Strengthening opportunity: Enhancing local ties and collective resilience. Increasing Affordability: A vow to “make things more affordable for everyone” addressing the economic pressures facing residents. Constituent Representation: A commitment to providing a “stronger voice” for the people of District 2.

  Gardner Magazine has reached out to John Reilly Jr. offering an opportunity for an interview. We have not yet heard back from the candidate.

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• Gardner’s Healthcare Insurance Crisis

  

  Watch video right from this page or click to watch in a larger view from YouTube.

  CLICK on infographic below for a larger, printable letter-size view.

  

  

  Gardner’s Healthcare Insurance Crisis – What Insurance Option is best for FY 2027?

  The City of Gardner is currently self-insured and the bills are going up, up, up

  The City of Gardner has seen a surge in healthcare costs of over $5 million in the last 7 years. Gardner Mayor Nicholson did an information session to outline possibilities. Watch the video by clicking play. The video contains some helpful charts.

  The City of Gardner is currently addressing a significant health insurance budgeting challenge. Since 2019, insurance costs in the city’s budget have increased by $5.5 million, with a projected increase of $1.4 million for the upcoming fiscal year alone.

  As a self-insured municipality, the city maintains a trust fund to cover medical claims; however, this fund is currently under-capitalized at $2.1 million, well below the Department of Revenue’s suggested healthy level of $4.5 million.

  To stabilize the city’s financial future and avoid drastic service cuts or “receivership” (municipal bankruptcy), four primary options have been presented to employees and retirees. These range from maintaining the status quo with a 12.5% rate increase to joining the state’s Group Insurance Commission (GIC).

  Decisions on plan changes and provider shifts are governed by the Public Employee Committee (PEC) through a weighted voting process dictated by state law. No final decisions have been made, and the city is currently seeking input from all stakeholders through their respective union and retiree representatives.

  So what is the appropriate solution? Local adjustment strategy with local control or joining a state group? The Chair Man and the Chair Lady debate the facts, going over all the intricate details involved in this important decision. It’s an interesting debate on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  View the infographic AT LEFT for more details. Clicking on it will bring up a printable letter size version.

  Implementation Timelines and Next Steps

  The path forward depends on the option selected and the speed of the PEC’s vote.

  • Option 1 Timeline: Mayoral approval only. Open enrollment in May; effective July 1.
  • Option 2 Timeline:
    • 2A: If PEC votes by May 1, 10% rate is effective July 1.
    • 2B: If PEC votes after May 1, a 12.5% rate is applied temporarily on July 1, dropping to 10% after a mandatory 60-day notice period.
  • Option 3 (GIC) Timeline: Requires a six-month notice. If a decision is reached by July 1, the city could join the GIC on January 1.
  • Action Item: All employees and retirees are directed to contact their PEC representatives to express their preference among the four options before the upcoming committee meeting.

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• Public Service 4-16-26

  

  Public Service Committee Reviews DPW, Engineering, and Conservation at April 16th meeting.

  
  The committee addressed critical infrastructure updates, budgetary deficits within the Department of Public Works (DPW), and a significant proposed multi-year water rate increase. Key takeaways include a $3,000 full water/sewer abatement due to administrative oversight, a severe $811,000 deficit in the snow and ice budget, and a four-year plan to raise water rates beginning with a 20% increase in July 2026 to prevent the Water Enterprise Account from zeroing out by 2027. Additionally, the Engineering and Conservation departments reported on major grant-funded projects, including the “Safe Streets and Roads for All” initiative and the $2 million Keyes Road culvert replacement. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  

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• Boudreau for State Rep
  

  View this Press Release from Nathan Boudreau, CLICK HERE.

  Former Gardner City Councilor Nathan Boudreau Announces Run for State Representative

  On April 16, 2026, Nathan Boudreau announced his candidacy for State Representative. Here is Boudreau’s statement: “Nathan Boudreau has announced his candidacy for State Representative in the 2nd Worcester District, representing Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and Winchendon.

  Boudreau, a former five-term Gardner City Councillor and municipal administrator with more than 15 years of experience in local and state government, is running on a clear premise: state government fails communities not through malice, but through misalignment — mandates without resources, compliance without support, and decisions made far from the people living with the consequences.

  “I’m running to bring accountability, clarity, and real-world experience to Beacon Hill — and to make sure this district is not an afterthought when decisions get made,” Boudreau said.

  Boudreau has earned the endorsement of State Senator Peter Durant, who cited his deep understanding of both local and state government and his ability to deliver practical, well-thought-out solutions for the district.”

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• Nicholson for State Representative

  

  Links: Nomination Papers – Donate to Campaign –Request a Lawn Sign – Campaign Volunteer Form – Email Sign-up

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Announces Run for State Representative

  On April 16, 2026, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson announced his candidacy for State Representative. Here is the Mayor’s statement:

  “I am excited to announce that I am running to be our State Representative.

  Cities and Towns across Massachusetts are struggling with tighter and tighter budgets which is putting more and more pressure on local services and taxpayers. I think Beacon Hill could benefit from more insight into the struggles facing municipalities.

  The struggles of declining enrollment in our schools, rising costs, especially for health insurance, and pressure from statewide municipal cost increases. If we want to stabilize municipal budgets we need creative statewide solutions.

  My experience as a Mayor, and previously as the Town Administrator of a small rural town gives me a unique perspective that is underrepresented in the legislature.

  I see the affordability and the housing crisis play out for my constituents every day. More and more people are finding themselves unable to afford bills, rent, and mortgages. I’ve pushed through innovative and strong solutions to these problems. I’ve reduced red tape in City Hall, rethought how we approach economic development, and incentivized housing growth that meets the needs of our residents and fits into the character of our communities, while also investing in our infrastructure and education system. I understand how a strong partnership between the state and our communities can make a big difference and I also understand where the state can place burdens on municipalities that limit our flexibility and impact local taxpayers.

  To get at the heart of the issues facing our district and the Commonwealth as a whole, we need people who can bring firsthand experience and solutions. With my experience in town and city government and as a lifelong resident of this area, I am uniquely qualified to serve in this role and will be ready to hit the ground running on day one.

  I also want to take a moment to thank Representative Zlotnik for his partnership and hard work over the last fourteen years. His efforts have resulted in significant funds coming directly to Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and Winchendon to support the revitalization of our community.

  Mayor Mike Nicholson”

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• Planning 4-14-26

  

  Local Development Projects, Signage Regulations, and Master Plan Subject of Planning Board

  The City of Gardner Planning Board met on April 14, 2026 and addressed several local development projects and legislative updates. A decision on 0 Emerald Street was postponed due to pending variance approvals regarding property frontage and deck placements. Discussion then shifted to the Walmart fuel station proposal, where engineers detailed updated plans for snow storage, lighting levels, and drainage maintenance to satisfy environmental requirements. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The Board recommended a City Ordinance change that reclassifies signage regulations within the City code. An announcement was made regarding the public review period for the City’s new 20 year Master Plan which aims to guide long-term regional growth. Further details in the infographic.

  

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• Officer Spain Honored

  

  Top: Officer Ryan Spain and family. Bottom: Deputy Chief Maroni, Chief McAvene, and Officer Spain. Publisher’s Note: Due to various proactive efforts, the crime rate in Gardner has fallen by almost half in the last 5 years.

  Officer of the Year Announced at Gardner PD Awards Banquet

  On Friday, April 10, 2026 the Gardner Police Department held its 2025 Officer of the Year Awards Banquet. The Officer of the Year is awarded to a department member who is outstanding in their commitment, dedication, and service to public safety and the Gardner community.

  School Resource Officer Ryan Spain was proudly awarded this title for his impact on Gardner Public Schools and numerous community engagement programs that connect the department with the community it serves.

  The banquet is held each year to honor the legacy of late Gardner officers Lieutenant Kenneth Arsenault and Officer Ronald Hough, after whom the award is in memory of. Also honored was Ronald’s daughter, the late Heather Newton, a dedicated dispatcher with GPD for 17 years.

  In addition to Officer of the Year, this event recognized members of the department who achieved 5,10 and 15 years of service. Current and retired officers and their families gathered to celebrate the dedication to service by officers and the loved ones who support them.

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• Zlotnik 4-16-26

  

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

  “Z Man” Not Seeking Reelection

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

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

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

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• Yard Waste April ’26

  

  Gardner Magazine is using just a little bit of humor to get out this schedule information. Have fun with your yard work!

  Transfer Station Availability for Yard Waste Disposal Affected by ongoing Construction

  The Gardner Health Department put out this advisory to residents of Gardner:

  “TRANSFER STATION UPDATE: Due to the Construction at the transfer station the following is a schedule for yard waste this week.

  WEDNESDAY: 04/15/26 No Yard Waste Accepted

  THURSDAY: 04/16/26 Yard Waste Accepted

  FRIDAY: 04/17/26 No Yard Waste Accepted

  SATURDAY: 04/18/26 Yard Waste Accepted

  We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”

  

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• Finance 4-14-26

  

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

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

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

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

  

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• Appointments 4-14-26

  

  Appointments Committee Reviewed Several Appointment Items

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

  The Gardner Appointments Committee meeting held on April 14, 2026, focused on the review of several city board appointments, the clarification of appointment term lengths, and the implementation of new administrative tracking procedures. Key takeaways include the recommendation for the reappointment of Paulette Burns to the Board of Assessors, the withdrawal of Miller Cornet’s zoning board reappointment following his resignation, and the approval of a bundled group of appointees for full council confirmation. Burns has served for more than 20 years.

  Significantly, the committee addressed a policy clarification regarding the Mayor’s flexibility in setting appointment terms and introduced a more organized 90-day window tracking system for upcoming vacancies. Several items, including job description changes for the Human Resources and Youth Center directors, remain on the agenda pending the submission of comparative documentation.

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  Spotlight on Communities Greater Gardner MA

  Gardner MA is known as the Chair City, and the other communities covered by Gardner Magazine all have something special: Ashburnham– Town of Lakes, Ashby – smallest town, Athol-the Tool Town, Barre – Town of Patriots, Gardner – The Chair City, Hardwick – Oldest Fair, Hubbardston -1015 above sea level, New Salem – Home of Quabbin Reservoir, Oakham – Coldbrook Springs, Orange – Home of Peace Statue, Petersham – Conservation, Phillipston – Historic Town Center, Princeton – Mt. Wachusett, Royalston – Forests and Falls, Rutland – Geographic Center of MA, Templeton – Town of 4 Villages, Warwick – Mt. Grace & Forest, Westminster – Historic Places, Winchendon – the Toy Town.
• Check It out

  

  Check It Out!

  Check out the pages on Gardner Magazine including Local Area Attractions, the Moving to the Area page, and Fun Photo Galleries. Kiddingly we say, ,Don’t play the fun games too long. Let us know what you like and what you’d like to see on Gardner Magazine.

• Public Meetings

  

  Public Meetings Calendars

  Gardner Magazine has a new page highlighting Public Meetings Calendars. Most communities list all upcoming meetings in handy formats. Some communities either have few meetings or are not as comprehensive. Being aware of Public Meetings is a great way to be involved in your community.

• Event Machine

  

  Easily find Greater Gardner Events

  Click on the name of a town for an EASY Google Events Search for events taking place in that community. ASHBURNHAM – ASHBY – ATHOL – BARRE – GARDNER – HARDWICK – HUBBARDSTON – NEW SALEM – OAKHAM – ORANGE – PETERSHAM – PHILLIPSTON – PRINCETON – ROYALSTON – RUTLAND – TEMPLETON – WARWICK – WESTMINSTER – WINCHENDON. A great tool to quickly find out what’s going on in the Greater Gardner region.

Massachusetts News This Week

• Interesting Links

  

  

  

  

  

  

Greater Gardner MA News Extras

• Gardner Tops 21K

  

  Gardner MA Population Statistics

  According to the U.S. Census, Gardner has a population of 21,287.    Median Household Income is about $50,000.   Those with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher is close to 1 in 5.   More than half of the population is employed.  98% have health care coverage.   There’s 9,411 total housing units with 691 vacant according to the Census Bureau.  Gardner’s median estimated age of 41 is slightly above the median age in Massachusetts.  One statistic to note: Average Gardner commute time is just under ½ hr. so there’s room for more local employers.  For the complete census data, click here.

• Visit Gardner

  

  Visit Downtown Gardner Video Released

  To celebrate a great place to shop, Gardner Magazine has released a Downtown Gardner MA video. Watch it in full HD. CLICK HERE.

• Expanded News

  

  Gardner Magazine news pages are generally updated twice per day and contain about 10 news stories per page. Let us know how we are doing. Contact Us.

  Announcing Expanded NEWS Coverage

  Added News pages include: About the U.S.: Breaking, FDA, Top Showbiz Stories, Top U.S. Stories, U.S. Economy News, U.S. News Alternate Sources: CNN, Fox, BBC. Countries of Interest: Australia, Canada, China, European Union, Mexico. Health: Health, Cancer, CDC, Climate, Covid. Neighboring States: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, New York. Politicians and Politics: Bernie Sanders, Capitol Hill, Donald Trump, Joe Biden, U.S. Politics. Topics: Aliens, Money, Science, Travel, UFOs.

  All News pages are listed under the tab LOCAL-STATE-U.S.-WORLD NEWS

News around Boston MA

In-Depth Massachusetts News Stories