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Finance Committee Meets on Budget Matters
The Gardner Finance Committee meeting held on May 12, 2026 primarily focused on reviewing departmental budget proposals for fiscal year 2027. City leadership, including the Mayor and various Department Heads including Director of Purchasing Joshier Cormier, HR Director Amanda Morse, Assessor Christine Kumar, and DPW Director Dane Arnold, discussed specific fiscal needs such as staffing changes, equipment acquisitions, and the management of employee salary increases amidst ongoing union negotiations.
Key administrative adjustments were proposed, including the consolidation of professional development funds to improve transparency and a plan to level-fund certain line items until contracts are finalized. The committee also evaluated capital improvement projects, such as roof repairs and accessibility upgrades at municipal buildings, utilizing unexpended bond proceeds.
Additionally, the session addressed proposed water rate hikes, resulting in an amendment to implement more gradual increases to alleviate the financial impact on residents. Finally, the members reviewed routine administrative matters, including unpaid bills and compliance filings, before recommending several measures for full city council approval.