Councilor Judy Mack spoke of the food crisis in the community and announced that the Gardner City Council would be having a food drive. Gardner Magazine will provide more details when available, but this is what the Councilor said: Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Two Meetings of Gardner MA City Council on November 3, 2025
1st: The joint public hearing between the Gardner City Council and Planning Board regarding proposed amendments to the city’s zoning code:
The first concerned an ordinance to allow the operation and use of cottage kitchens (home-based commercial kitchens) in residential districts, with Mayor Mike Nicholson advocating for the change to support small businesses.
The second, more extensive discussion focused on a comprehensive ordinance designed to promote housing growth and production in the city by addressing a housing supply and demand crisis through measures such as permitting small homes (tiny homes) and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), expediting permitting, creating a starter home overlay, and easing residential parking requirements. Testimony was heard both in favor of and in opposition to the proposed zoning changes, with the primary opposition and council concerns revolving around the limited scope of the proposed multi-family overlay district and the impact of the reduced parking requirements on existing neighborhoods.
Complete Agenda and Packet CLICK HERE.
Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK HERE.
2nd: Regular City Council Meeting – The Council authorized the loan for the Gardner Middle School Roof Replacement Project. The $6.9 million dollar project will get up to 80% reimbursed by the Massachusetts School Building Authority. The measure required a 2/3 vote to pass and did pass with 11 Yeas, (unanimously).
Complete Agenda and Packet CLICK HERE.
Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK HERE.
The meeting also featured a comprehensive update from Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas regarding Economic Development and Planning, outlining the progress of several major projects such as the Rear Main Street initiative, the Maki Park accessibility upgrades, the Master plan and Hazard mitigration projects, the status of various property sales, and the demolition and historic preservation efforts regarding the Greenwood Pool (indoor pool building) building which above-ground demolition was completed October 31st. Below ground demolition to be completed in November. Finally, Councilors discussed upcoming community events, including an election and a food drive, while honoring Veterans Day and a local business milestone.