Even More Greater Gardner MA Local News
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- Grow Valentine (2/12/2024)
A Valentine’s Wish for the Chair City and the Greater Gardner Area
To Grow a Valentine Plant the seeds of abundant love
Flying down from an Eternal Dove
A Plant in Bloom just once a year
The Valentine with love so dear.Let us grow more Valentines
So love brightly shines
Upon a landscape so encumbered
That its love had slumbered.Wake up the seeds of passion
So love is more in fashion
Enduring words so softly spoken
May love itself not be broken.Find the way to spread the word
Valentine’s Day is unfurled
With a message of emotional might
Shining love’s bright light.It’s time to grow a Valentine.
The seed is spoken anytime.
Love itself makes its own fuel.
When Valentine’s is the rule.
- Roads 2-12-24 (2/12/2024)
Gardner MA Is Awarded $230k in Safe Streets and Roads Grant Funding
The City of Gardner will receive $230,000 for implementation, planning, and demonstration projects to improve safety and help prevent deaths and injuries on its roads. The complete Press Release from Gardner Mayor Nicholson outlines details, CLICK HERE.
“In the last three years, Gardner has invested heavily in our infrastructure –however, there’s still more we need to do,” said Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. “The funding received from this grant will help us plan for what our next steps should be in making sure our streets are safe for all methods of travel for the people who visit the Chair City.”
According to the Press Release: Since 2020, the City of Gardner has invested nearly $25 million in infrastructure upgrades. These upgrades have included installations of new sidewalks, new lighting fixtures, ADA compliant crossing ramps, water mains, and repaved over 20% of the roads in the City. Additionally, the City has installed several miles of bicycle travel infrastructure. This funding will help guide the City’s actions in the future to ensure that increased travel methods are done in a safest and most effective way for Gardner’s growing population.
- Schools 2-12-24 (2/12/2024)
School Committee Reviewing Policies and Curriculum at Monday Meeting
The packet contains extensive information about the School Curriculum and courses. View agenda and 261 page packet, CLICK HERE. REPORT on the meeting including AUDIO, CLICK HERE.
The vision of the School system includes the following statement: “Every child, in every classroom, every day, will: feel welcomed, safe and included in our community. Adults will personally welcome each child as they enter the school and each classroom. The layout of the school and each classroom will be inviting and conducive to learning. Students will learn social-emotional skills through direct instruction, supports, and institutional practices. Our school will actively engage families in the education of their children and community…” The plan goes into great detail as to the strategic objectives in academic, behavioral, social-emotional learning, and collaboration with families and community partners.
Options for the 2024-2025 calendar are included in the packet. The School system got 488 responses to a survey regarding calendar options. Option 1 was favored by 27.3% and Option 2 was favored by 73.4 %. Last year, the School Committee accepted the option most favored in the survey. Option 2 has September 3, 2024 as the first day of school with full day professional development for faculty and staff training on August 26 to August 29. Option 1 which was not favored would have school starting earlier on August 28th.
- Storm 2-13-24 (2/12/2024)
UPDATE 8:30am 2-13-24: Where is the forecast storm? Levi Heywood Memorial Library has announced it will open at 11am on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. It is possible other items in this article have changed. We will update as we have information.
Forecast Update: National Weather Service now calling for 1 to 3 inches.
For complete forecasts (a variety of them from different sources), weather maps, the National Weather Service, and Airport Reports, please visit the Greater Gardner Weather Center, CLICK HERE.
Tuesday Storm Could Bring Plowable Snow and Some Wind
WINTER STORM WARNING: From February 13th 1am to February 14th 1am:
From a sunny day on Monday to a snowy day on Tuesday: As of Monday, February 12, 2024 at 9am, the National Weather Service is predicting an all day storm on Tuesday, February 13th with heavy snow before 4pm. And wind gusts as high as 31mph Currently, 7 to 11 inches is predicted. UPDATE: National Weather Service now stating 3-5 inches expected. (We’ll know the 100% accurate forecast the day after the storm)
Valentine’s Day on the 14th will be below freezing with a high of 28 and the wind gusts will continue. Another storm is possible on Thursday in to Friday with the weekend forecast to be storm free at this point.
Expect a parking ban announcement at some point.
UPDATE: 6PM February 12, 2024: This Statement was released by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson: “Due to the predicted inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban beginning this evening, Monday, February 12, at 10pm and expiring tomorrow afternoon, Tuesday, February 13th, at 6pm. There will be a municipal parking lot ban in effect from 6pm to 8pm tomorrow, Tuesday February 13th. All trash collection will also be operating on a one-day delay for the remainder of the week. The Levi Heywood Memorial Library will be closed on Tuesday, Feb 13th.” UPDATE: 6:55PM – Note that Gardner Public Schools plan to be OPEN.
From Mount Wachusett Community College: Due to the impending weather, all MWCC campuses will be closed Tuesday, February 13, 2024. All day, evening and remote classes are canceled. Students should check their email for details. Please refer to the Mount Fitness Facebook Page for status on their operations.
Mayor Nicholson continued, “At this time, City Hall will have a 2 hour delay and open at 10am. In the event that a full closure has to happen at City Hall, all public meetings schedule will have to be postponed. Due to the fact that it appears every weather station and app have different predictions for this storm, we will monitor the radar throughout the night and the day tomorrow and adjust as needed.
DPW crews are currently responding to a water main break on Pearl Street by the Ashburnham town line. Due to their working on this repair and the union contractual and general safety guidelines for hours of sleep needed between work, this may cause some delays in plowing operations, solely dependent on what time the snow starts to fall- which again differs depending on which weather news source you look at. “
In addition the Mayor wrote, “At this time, City Hall will have a 2 hour delay and open at 10am. In the event that a full closure has to happen at City Hall, all public meetings schedule will have to be postponed.
Due to the fact that it appears every weather station and app have different predictions for this storm, we will monitor the radar throughout the night and the day tomorrow and adjust as needed.
DPW crews are currently responding to a water main break on Pearl Street by the Ashburnham town line. Due to their working on this repair and the union contractual and general safety guidelines for hours of sleep needed between work, this may cause some delays in plowing operations, solely dependent on what time the snow starts to fall- which again differs depending on which weather news source you look at. “
- Farmers 2024 (2/11/2024)
Gardner Farmers’ Market Setting Up to Impress Greater Gardner Area in 2024
The Gardner Farmers’ Market will be held the 3rd Saturday of every month from 9:30am to 1pm beginning in June 2024 at the Waterford Street School, 70 Waterford Street in Gardner. Vendor applications are being taken now. For more information, CLICK HERE.
Areas of focus include locally grown produce including fruit and vegetables, locally grown flowers, locally made baked goods, local meat and eggs, and locally made crafts. Website, CLICK HERE.
From the website: “The Gardner Farmers’ Market aims to improve access to high quality local produce for the Gardner community and bolster local producers by promoting locally grown and/or produced products.”
Open 9:30am to 1pm on these important dates: Grand opening: June 15, 2024 —–Summer Market: July 20, 2024 —- Harvest Festival: August 17, 2024 —- Fall Harvest Market: September 21, 2024
- Hotline 2-10-24 (2/10/2024)
A limited number of interview slots are available on Hotline Radio each week. Please contact Host Steve Wendell at (978) 632-1340 or email SteveWendell@wgaw1340.com. Wendell also tells us that the station provides slots for FREE Public Service Announcements to promote community organizations.
News from the HIT Hotline Radio Show on WGAW
On Hotline Radio, Saturday, February 10, 2024, host Steve Wendell spoke with Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas. She spoke about the Ribbon Cutting in Downtown Gardner at 42-52 Parker Street. She noted that Mass Ave Rentals was the company which had renovated the Goodnow Pearson Building years ago. Regarding other projects, “there just so much coming on the horizon…it’s really nice to see so much completion….if you build it, they will come.” Kazinskas confirmed that Brad Heglin will be offered the seat vacated by the death of Ronald F. Cormier as Heglin was the next highest vote getter for Councilor at Large in the last election. If he accepts, Heglin could be sworn in as early as the next meeting.
State Senator Peter Durant spoke regarding the State budget. “Revenues are falling short by a significant amount, doesn’t look good for the upcoming budget.” He also spoke about an issue regarding EBT cards because individuals can withdraw cash and use the funds to buy liquor and cigarettes instead of food for the family. Durant believes that the U.S. is heading towards a recession.
During a segment on the U.S, Border crisis, Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel commented on solutions for the Border Crisis, listen on any device, CLICK HERE.
Commentary on the Border – Werner Poegel Host Steve Wendell commented that we did have a period in our history where immigration was halted for a time so that the nation could adjust to existing new citizens.
Hotline Radio also covered topics regarding Joe Biden this week, Security at the Super Bowl, and the wild weather in California.
Fitchburg Mayor Sam Squailia appeared on the program and spoke about wells. PFAS contamination is a concern in many communities, but not in Fitchburg. Another publication had to issue a retraction. Recently, the Board of Health in the town Westminster lifted the moratorium on new wells. Regarding the proposed Anaerobic Digestion Plant: Cost is estimated to be about $270 million and is still in the discussion stage. The Mayor stated she would like to collaborate with the City of Gardner to help Gardner reduce costs.
- Aldi Progress (2/10/2024)
Aldi Getting Ready for Spring – Summer Opening in Gardner
Gardner is abuzz with discussion about when Aldi will open in the Timpany Plaza. Gardner Magazine visited the location on February 7th. We were able to find out that construction has progressed to indoor shelving and a Spring opening is forecast.
For those who wish to sample ALDI, there is a store in Leominster Massachusetts. Aldi carries most of what a conventional grocery store carries including fresh meat and produce. It claims to have low prices. Gardner area residents will soon be the judge.
For more information, visit their website
Some stores in the Timpany Plaza, Gardner
- Housing Downtown (2/10/2024)
Downtown Gardner is undergoing a period of positive transformation as a number of buildings are being renovated including the historic Garbose Building and the Bullnose Building. Work on the former Bank of America building and the Gardner News building is expected in the near future.
29 New Housing Units Officially Open in Downtown Gardner
The building was vacant for years and taken over by the Gardner Redevelopment Authority to sell to a private investor. Mass Ave Rentals purchased the property at 42-52 Parker Street and invested millions to create 29 new Market Rate housing units. A $900,000 underutilized property grant also helped with the project. Now, the building is an integral part of an increasingly beautiful Downtown Gardner. SEE PHOTO.
According to a Press Release: “The need for housing is at an all-time high and a pressing issue in our community. Projects like this development address that need head-on,” said Ali Lorden of Mass Ave Rentals. “We are so happy to be bringing 29 units to the downtown area of Gardner, a city that has been working tirelessly to improve for its residents and future residents.”
“Gardner, like every other community across Massachusetts needs more housing,” said Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson. “This project gets us one step closer to getting us where we need to be. We know there are over 225 market rate housing units currently being planned for the downtown and we know our population in this area is continuing to grow. Over the last five years, our population has grown by over 10%, and that trend is continuing, with the biggest demand being for one- or two- bedroom units for young professionals or families who are just starting out on their own. This project really starts the City working to meet that demand and launch ourselves forward.”
- Airport Boost (2/10/2024)
Documentation on why regional airports like Gardner Municipal Airport help the Economics of the Greater Gardner Area
The Gardner Municipal Airport is located in Templeton, MA on land owned by the City of Gardner. It recently received millions in grants to fund brand-new runways and more. So what’s the big deal, what can an airport do to help the community? We have some facts below and AUDIO of the recent Gardner Airport Commission from 2-7-24 is right here. Progress at the airport is discussed. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Airport Commission 2-7-24 Airport has a big impact: To quote Aviation Pros “Some tend to overlook a significant economic driver for many less-populated areas of the country – regional general aviation airports. While these airports are small compared to those found in major cities, their economic impact is extremely significant. In fact, the general aviation industry generates $219 billion in total economic input and contributes $109 billion to the nation’s gross domestic product. The airports support 1.1 million jobs and allow America’s smaller communities to attract business and tourism.” Here’s the complete article, CLICK HERE.
To quote RAA News: ““The main finding is that small community air service generates a significant amount of economic activity in the U.S.,” Bill Swelbar, chief industry strategist for Delta Airport Consultants and the lead researcher for the Economic Impact of Small Community Airports study, told RAA’s Regional Horizons. “The numbers are pretty compelling. [Air service] is a really important driver of economic activity and jobs.” There are 570 small community airports in the U.S., and air service to these airports generates $134 billion of economic activity in the respective communities, according to the study. In addition, the 570 small community airports create 1 million jobs that generate $36 billion in wages and commensurate tax revenue to the states and communities that receive commercial air service. Here’s the complete article:
Research from North Carolina State University about the critical role general aviation airports play in driving economic growth, investment, jobs, and tourism. CLICK HERE:
From theMunicipal.com: The article documents the advantages of a municipal airport. CLICK HERE:
From Vox.com about how commercial air service facilitates economic growth: CLICK HERE:
A lesson on how airports help local communities prosper from ACKO.com CLICK HERE
From the New Hampshire Municipal Association about how local airports offer many benefits to New Hampshire residents: CLICK HERE.
From the FAA: FAA Support to Rural Communities including an explanation of the Airport Improvement Program, CLICK HERE.
And a lengthy report from over 30 years ago from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics estimating the regional economic significance of airports. We have it available here in pdf format, CLICK HERE.
- Good Things (2/10/2024)
Keep up on the “So Many Good Things” every week with the Mayor’s Updates, City Council, School Committee, various Committees and Commissions, and our interviews.
EDITORIAL: So Many Good Things in the City of Gardner MA
So many good things are happening in the City of Gardner. Did you know that the Waterford Street School Community Center Project is proceeding. Soon the City will have a great Community Center instead of another failing building, AND, it will have an income stream from tenants. Did you know that at this week’s Appointments Committee meeting that mounds of praise were given to the Council on Aging and Senior Center Director Mike Ellis? And the star of the week, Mayor Michael Nicholson whose proposal for the City Council to approve $60k for a 3rd party grant contractor a while ago may pay back 250 times in the form of a RAISE Grant?
I am overwhelmed by a feeling of great gratitude.
The City of Gardner is run by some very good decent people who have shown in their words, deeds, and successes how much they care about the City. Each Committee of the City Council has proven invaluable and skilled in their oversight. The Mayor has excelled in his leadership. City Employees go above and beyond every single day. Yes, there are So Many GOOD Things happening in the City of Gardner. Sometimes, you just have to say it!
So Many GOOD Things, and I am grateful to write about a City with a great big heart of community spirit. Thank you for this great feeling of joy.
- Garage Payoff (2/9/2024)
Mayor Nicholson indicated that if this first stage $3.6 million RAISE grant was approved, then next year the City would apply for the remainder of the $15 million for the full project. Details are on pages 39 to 51 of the City Council Agenda of 2-5-24
Meanwhile, the plan Mayor Nicholson has put in place is for the 3rd party contractor to search for other available grant funding. More grants means less cost to taxpayers.
Gardner MA Mayor Nicholson’s Bet for the City may pay off BIG
If approved, the $15 million RAISE discretionary grant from the United States Department of Transportation would mean the $60k bet the City Council made on a 3rd party grant contractor would pay back 250 times the approved budget on this project alone. The City of Gardner has received tens of millions of dollars in grant funding since Michael Nicholson became Mayor and more miles of road have been paved in the last 3 years than in a decade. It’s is a trend the current Mayor is hoping will continue with this 2 stage grant for a West Street multi-level parking garage intended to solve expected parking issues due to growth in Downtown Gardner.
The City Council on February 5th approved a resolution which takes the City to the first step, a $3.6 million dollar grant. According to Mayor Nicholson, “ What this covers is a full parking study of the downtown. This goes from everything to do we stay with parking meters, do we move with kiosks, is there a different type of technology out there that we can use or should we move through just free parking in general? Additionally, the completion of the work on Rear Main Street. We do anticipate that the groundbreaking for the project will take place sometime this calendar year. However, there are some cost overages that we are anticipating with that, so applying for the funds to finish out that project so that the additional items that were cut from the original design can now be added back into that design, and, the funding of a full design of a four-story parking garage above the West Street parking lot.”
- Appointments 2-9-24 (2/9/2024)
Council on Aging members were praised by the Mayor, Senior Center Director, and City Councilors.
Gardner Appointments Committee – Council on Aging Members Doing Terrific Job
Taking up appointments and re-appointments to the Council on Aging at its meeting of February 9, 2024, the Appointments Committee heard praises from all of its members including City Councilors Dana Heath, George Tyros, and Judy Mack. Also speaking positively were Senior Center Director Michael Ellis and Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson.
Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Appointments Committee 2-9-24 The Appointments Committee speaks with those who are seeking or who would like to continue positions within the City . Recommendations are then forwarded to the full City Council. Chair Councilor Tyros stated,“The purpose of this committee is to oversee the flow of appointments made by the mayor to various positions in city government in a thorough and transparent manner. Our aim is to ask questions and have discussions of these critical appointments, their duties, the work they do for the city, to better inform city councilors when this committee presents on recommendations to the council for their consideration.”
Mayor Nicholson said of Barbara Leblanc, “Mrs. LeBlanc has been a very strong member of the community. I remember her growing up when she was a lecturer at Holy Spirit Church and then has continued to really see her involvement with her family over at John’s Sports Shop and as a former school teacher. It’s really someone who I think is very fitting of the role, who knows the community and just understands Gardner.”
The Mayor said of Kathy O’Brien, “I’ve heard nothing but good feedback based on what Mrs. O’Brien has done in her tenure on the Council on Aging. It’s something like the director said, it’s a more active group now. And as we start moving towards planning for the eventual move to Waterford Street School, but still remembering that we still have a senior center that’s active before that move takes place. So things still need to happen now before the move happens. So it’s a planning and an action group at the same time.”
The Mayor said of Theresa Hillman (not present, so photo not shown) , “I don’t know when Mrs. Hillman started on the Council on Aging because I feel like she’s been there forever with all the work that she’s done. She’s continuously been re-appointed by several mayors in the past to serve on this role, and she continues to make an active part of the community. You saw that she is my appointee to the CAC’s board. She’s still the Recording Secretary for the School Committee, and she takes an active part over at the Senior Center through her role on the Council on Aging. So, I would really highly recommend her re-appointment to this role.”
The Mayor said of Gloria Tarpey, “Ms. Tarpey is very active in the community. She was, under the previous ordinance, a member through her role as the president of the Golden Agers Club. You saw my appointment of her as the president of the Golden Agers come through last week, as is required by their bylaws. But where we changed the ordinance,now she does have to come before the council for recommendation and approval. She’s really someone who’s been an active voice over at the Senior Center, active voice with the Golden Agers Club and the programming that runs through the Golden Agers Club.”
Councilor Judy Mack stated, “I just want to make a statement in general because we are concentrating on the appointments for the Council on Aging. That Gardner is extremely fortunate to have such a robust senior center with a myriad of programs. This along with a very strong Council on Aging. The Council on Aging role is to advocate for our senior population. It should be comprised of citizens who are committed to actively promoting and fostering the programs for our elderly and the community. Identifying the needs and interests of our seniors, encouraging them to attend programs, and educating them to different resources within the community. I want to applaud Mr. Ellis and Ron, the Chair of the Council on Aging, as well as the Mayor for his appointees that he has selected because we are very fortunate and I’m confident that our Council on Aging is in very good hands. So, I just want to appreciate that, you know, every appointee to this group in your role is very much appreciated by myself and the city.
- POEDM Launches (2/9/2024)
Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel launches POEDM.net. Visit the website, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine Publisher Launches POEDM.net, Online AUDIO Commentary and Cool Art
This is a website in which I’ll feature AUDIO commentary which cuts through partisanship, presents solutions with simple common sense, and preserves the dignity of all people. We also feature some cool art for each subject. POE DM is AUDIO that matters. The goal: Present an opinion which contains a common sense solution to an existing problem or issue and provide fun visuals to see along the way.
Right now, you’ll see some COOL ART in dozens of categories. AUDIO commentary will be added gradually as I write and record it.
Right now, Enjoy dozens of categories of cool 3D Hologram Art in the categories of all things Government, Human Behavior, People Issues, Economics, the Planet, Policy, Oversight, and much more. Visit the Website, CLICK HERE.
- Safety Equipment (2/8/2024)
Many Area Communities Receiving Fiscal Year 2024 Firefighter Safety Grants
The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services has announced awardees for the Fiscal Year Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program: Ashburnham: $5,936.05, Ashby – $12,500, Barre – $15,500, Gardner- $19,000, Hubbardston – $12,500, New Salem – $6,762.47, Oakham – $10,443, Orange – $15,500, Petersham – $7649.02, Phillipston – $10,500, Princeton – $12,500, Royalston – $7,702.87, Templeton – $15,500, Warwick – $10,500, Westminster – $15,500, and Winchendon – $19,000
Complete list from the State of Massachusetts, CLICK HERE.
According to the State of Massachusetts, “This program is offered annually to fire departments of every city, town, fire district, and authority of the Commonwealth. $5 million of funding is available through this program to provide fire departments with equipment that makes the dangerous job of firefighter safer.”
UPDATE February 20, 2024 – PRESS RELEASE from the City of Gardner on how $19,000 grant will be spent, CLICK HERE. – “This competitive grant program from the State provides much needed funding for critical equipment that allows Firefighters to safely perform their jobs,” said Gardner Fire Chief Greg Lagoy. “Firefighting equipment is very expensive to purchase and maintain, and can often be damaged in the hazardous environments it is used. The City has limited funds to keep up with purchasing all equipment needed, and this grant award really helps us meet those needs.” Here’s how the City of Gardner will use the funds: Four (4) Lifting Vehicle Air Bags will replace the four devices that were taken out of service due to 1 of the current bags failing during a training event in 2023 and the rest being beyond service life. —- One (1) Battery-Powered Positive Pressure Ventilation Fan will replace an older gasoline Positive Pressure Ventilation that was taken out of service due to engine problems. —- Two (2) Battery-Powered Portable Scene Lights will be replacing a generator-mounted light that was damaged & not repairable due to the model being discontinued, and a 110-volt halogen scene light that was also damaged and not repairable. —– Two (2) Cold Water Immersion Suits will be replacing previous cold-water suits that were recently removed from service due to leaks that were noticed during a training exercise. Both of current suits are well over 10 years old, repairs are not practical. —- Two (2) Hydrant Gate Valves will replace two taken out of service due to leaks in the valve bodies, making repairs impractical. —- Three (3) Pike Poles (1- 8ft., 1- 10ft., 1- 12ft.) will replace like ones with damaged fiberglass handles, the cost of repairs would exceed their value. —- The City also received funds for a new apparatus-mounted, radio/intercom wireless headset system for our primary, first-out Engine. According to Chief Lagoy, firefighters have expressed concern about not being able to hear radio transmissions both in the apparatus and on the fireground. This system will improve communication, and protect firefighters operating in loud environments from hearing loss. The need for this piece of equipment came after representatives of the Gardner Fire Department attended a recent training where the benefits of this communication system was almost immediately recognized.
- Council 2-5-24 (2/6/2024)
View Complete Meeting Agenda and Packet, CLICK HERE.
Swearing in and Fire Chief Lagoy taking a picture Gardner MA City Council Meets on February 5, 2024
The Gardner City Council paid tribute to long-time Councilor Ronald F. Cormier who recently had passed away. At the beginning of the meeting. some firefighters were sworn in and it was noted that the Fire Department was now at full capacity. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The City Council approved taking the first step towards the possible grant for a 4 story West Street Parking Garage. The first grant request includes additional funding for the Rear Main Street Project. It also approved the first step towards the replacement of the roof of Gardner Middle School – a resolution in support of a State grant. Decision on funding for the Salt Shed, $625k, was referred to the Council as a Committee of the whole for further study and discussion.
With respect to the Open Meeting Law Complaint regarding Executive Session minutes, it was noted that the minutes are currently available.
The two Zoning articles were given more time as the final recommendation of the Planning Board will not be received until they meet on the issue.
Gardner Five Star Auto Sales got its license approval conditioned upon submitting a requested plan to the Building Department within 120 days.
- Safety 2-5-24 (2/6/2024)
Public Safety Committee Hears from Tom Zuppa Regarding Auto Dealers and Zoning Compliance
Building Commissioner Tom Zuppa was heard regarding the Class II Dealer License application of Gardner 5 Star Auto Sales. The Committee voted to recommend to the full City Council that the business be given 120 days to comply with certain requirements. Apparently, this was something not enforced in the past as other dealers in the City also need to be brought into compliance. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Zuppa stated, “Generally, when parking plans, site plans are submitted, there are some criteria that we look for specific to zoning outside of the city code for dealer parking. That site plan should include specific dimensions for the actual vehicles for sale, which is no greater than 180 square feet, and that’s part of the city code. A couple of other things that we look at as far as zoning goes is access in and out of the parcel of land based on the business use, the number of employee and guest parking spaces, how those are delineated from the spaces for sale for vehicles. So we need those shown on the plans. We need to know where they are, the dimensions. Things like maneuvering aisles, interior driveways. We have a few different categories. They all require their own separate sets of dimensions.This particular application, as I stated, is lacking that level of detail. So that is something that we are going to look for moving forward, and it’s something that we’re going to hopefully try to bring the rest of the dealers within the city into compliance as well.”
- MVP Barber (2/5/2024)
MVP Barber Studio 2 Has Ribbon Cutting to Large Group of People
MVP Barber Studio held is official grand opening and ribbon cutting on February 5, 2024 at 66 Main Street in Gardner. It is the second location for Vincent Santana who has a similar shop in Leominster.
Santana posted online, “Huge thanks to Mayor Michael J. Nicholson and the City of Gardner for supporting me! Come on down and give us a visit…Also a big thank you to my family and friends for believing in me! Here’s to a new journey.”
We had the honor of speaking with owner Vincent Santana. Meet him here. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
MVP Barber Studio II
- Insta Minutes (2/5/2024)
Editorial: Again, More Nonsense Allegations by Pauly Potato
Meeting Minutes: The Gardner City Council Meeting Agenda and Packet for February 5, 2024 contains an an Open Meeting Law violation complaint made by Paul Demeo, known colloquially as “Pauly Potato.” He alleges that the meeting minutes are not provided in a timely manner. He complains about Executive Session minutes not being available.
We’d like to point out what we call the “Insta Minutes”. Meetings are posted within 24 hours via YouTube videos. Click on Show Transcript and you’ve got Instant Minutes in text of the meeting. Now maybe Pauly Potato wants them in a specific font and maybe even on parchment paper using a specific ink, but come on, in a City which goes above and beyond in its transparency, enough is enough. Every one of these ridiculous nonsense complaints simply costs the taxpayers money. And if something isn’t shared with the public because it’s still a pending legal matter, well, that’s how you’re supposed to handle things.
Complete City Council Agenda and Packet for February 5, 2024, CLICK HERE.
“Insta-Minutes” Procedure: Go to the City of Gardner page on YouTube, CLICK HERE. Choose a video. Click on Show Transcript. Highlight the text. Paste in a document. Save it and/or print it. Instantly!
Salacious Allegations: On a Gardner Community Group, some very serious falsehoods about a City official were allowed to remain for a short period of time on February 4th until the Admin, Kimberly Blake was contacted by legal counsel. It is disgusting what that group has allowed to be posted over the last year. Those who commented to Blake that the post should be taken down because it was slander were actually banned from the group. You will recall that Gardner Magazine had to call out various falsehoods stated by Blake during the campaign. This behavior is not helpful. Here is an article from September on a certain portrait. CLICK HERE.
Waterford False Allegations: A new thread in the same group was started regarding the Waterford Street School conversion, under the misrepresentation of showing evidence of something improper. Nothing could be further from the truth. Even the posted emails, (if even genuine) when taken in the proper context show communications about how the City should proceed legally. What I don’t understand is this: If the Mayor of a City seeks advice about how to proceed properly on any matter and then does so to conform with the requirements of the law, isn’t that a good thing? And by the way, in a recent interview, Mayor Nicholson revealed that about $700,000 has already been spent. The building is well on its way towards becoming an awesome Community Center. And by the way, the City has an Open Checkbook – any citizen can see exactly what checks have been written going back an entire decade. From our interview with Mayor Nicholson, CLICK HERE.
Here’s the irony: At the same time certain elements attempt to disparage its officials, the City of Gardner has established a great reputation for doing things the right way. I understand the disappointment some people feel about not being elected to the office of Mayor. But that’s no excuse for the continual false attacks and made-up scandals.
- About Ron (2/4/2024)
Craig Cormier Shares Words About Ronald F. Cormier
Ronald F. Cormier passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024. His son, Craig Cormier posted a poignant statement with words of reflection about his father. Here it is in its entirety. CLICK HERE.
Craig Cormier wrote about his father, “As I’ve been thinking about him this week and how it’s at all possible to sum up a life so full, so well lived, one word kept coming to my mind. Better. Dad’s whole life was an endeavor towards Better.”
“How do we fill this gaping void he left in our hearts, in our community? The answer’s right there. We do what he’d do. Be better. Find better. We don’t need to be best. Best is hard. Best is narrow. Better. Better is easier. Better is attainable. A better parent. A better friend. A better son, a better daughter, cousin, colleague, teachers, leader. What better way to remember him.”
Read the tribute Craig Cormier wrote. Here it is in its entirety. CLICK HERE.
- Summer Recreation 2024 (2/2/2024)
City of Gardner MA Recreation Announces Registration Open for Summer Program
The City of Gardner Recreation Department has announced that registration is now open for the 2024 Summer Program. This year, the program will be using Gardner Elementary School and Gardner Middle School. Gardner High School will not be used.
Parents are reminded that the student’s grade level as of the next school year is what to use. For example, if your student is currently a 3rd grader, you would use the 4th grade registration.
Gardner Recreation has separate pages and links for the various programs by age. Here is the overall page, CLICK HERE. Any questions, email Director Dan Forte via forted@gardnerk12.org
6 week Programs begin in July. “Dedicated to creating engaging experiences for our community’s youth through sports, arts, STEM, and more.” This year, the Kindergarten and Grade 1 group will be housed at Gardner Elementary School. Extended drop off and pickup will be available. Meals and snacks are also provided. Registration deadline is 6-10-24. For details on specific age groups and other details, click on the appropriate link.
Registration by Grade: Kindergarten and first grade —- Grades 2/3 —- Grades 4-6 — 7th Grade —- Volunteers (8-10)
- 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.
- Serious Accident (2/1/2024)
FATAL ACCIDENT February 1, 2024: Serious motor vehicle accident on Thursday, February 1, 2024 on Route 140.
Gardner Police Chief Eric McAvene wrote: “It was a fatality. One female operator was pronounced deceased at the scene. Almost the same location as the last one up there. It’s under investigation by the Gardner Police Department and Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section (C.A.R.S. Unit). “
- Assessors 1-30-24 (2/1/2024)
As could be depicted in a Disney Movie. Lean (But Not Mean) Gardner Board of Assessors Releases Not one Lien, but Two
City Assessor Christine Kumar and Member Paulette Burns met on January 30, 2024. It was a “lean” meeting without Chairman Charles LeBlanc. However, they had the means to release 2 “liens” on a property which according to Kumar“ has not been in Chapter land for a few years, but the two liens remain. John Flick contacted me and we both agreed that there is no reason that the liens need to remain on the property.” The release documents were 14 pages long would would be recorded at the Registry of Deeds after being notarized. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Board of Assessors 1-30-24 In addition, the meeting included “warrants and commitments for the auditor and then for the treasurer collector’s office.” And they said to each other, “You did pretty good, girl. Well, thank you, ma’am. Sometimes it’s tough to keep everything straight, I will admit.”
Publisher’s note: No assessors or Board members were harmed in the writing of this story. However, we are certain that readers will never recover from our ridiculously silly humor, as “lean” as it is. When you see Christine Kumar, tell her how much you appreciate her important work.
- Operation – 2024 (1/31/2024)
COMPLETE Interview page with text of all questions and answers and added graphics, CLICK HERE.
Operation: Projects 2024 – an Interview with Mayor Nicholson
Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel asked Mayor Michael Nicholson about various projects contemplated for 2024. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Operation: Projects 2024 – Interview with Mayor Michael Nicholson January 30, 2024 We spoke to the Mayor about various City-owned properties. We spoke about the City response to weather. The Mayor informed us regarding staffing issues and budget issues. He is open to alternatives regarding the Sludge Landfill but notes that options are limited. The Mayor has hired an Executive Aide who will be starting in May after graduating college, just like the Mayor himself did. We spoke about ongoing projects in the City. And, we asked the Mayor about the Boards and commissions to which he belongs and some recent honors.
COMPLETE Interview page with text of all questions and answers and added graphics, CLICK HERE.
- Executive Aide (1/30/2024)
Katie Jablonski, Executive Aide to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, starting in May. She was the first intern at his office.
Gardner Mayor Nicholson Selects New Executive Aide, Starts in May
It’s somewhat like history repeating itself. Mayor Nicholson was offered an Executive Aide position by former Mayor Mark Hawke in the summer of 2016 and began the job the following Spring when he graduated from UMass Amherst with his Master’s Degree.
The Mayor’s first intern, Katie Jablonski has accepted the position as Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Executive Aide. She will start that role after she graduates from Endicott College in May. Mayor Nicholson in our “Operation: Projects 2024” interview stated, “I’m really looking forward to bringing Katie back to the team, as someone who started out as an intern in this office….we’ll get her back here in May and do a full introduction of her at that time.”
Mayor Nicholson and interns
- Cormier Passing (1/30/2024)
Gardner City Hall posted, “On behalf of all of us at Gardner City Hall, we wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family of City Councillor Ronald Cormier who passed away this weekend. Mayor Nicholson has directed that the Flag of the City of Gardner, located Downtown, be lowered to half-staff in memory of his decades of service to the City.”
Complete statement by Mayor Nicholson, CLICK HERE. —- Complete Obituary, CLICK HERE
Publisher’s Note: “So honored to have met Ronald F. Cormier. A truly inspiring man who lived a life of service to his community. A man who thought before he spoke. And a man who kindly spoke of what he thought. He will be missed.”
City Councilor Ronald Cormier Passes Away – Funeral to be Saturday
Gardner Magazine is sad to report that City Councilor Ronald F. Cormier has died. He is the father of City Councilor Craig Cormier. Councilor Cormier passed away on Sunday, January 28th. Service is on February 3, 2024 at 11am at Annunciation Parish.
Mr. Ron Cormier has had the honor of serving ten terms as a Councilor at Large, and previously served Ward three as its councilor for sixteen years. He had begun his 11th term in January. During his tenure he has served on all council committees and served several terms as Council President.
Mr. Cormier has also served the city in a number of other capacities over the years. He was a member of both the Airport Commission and the Municipal Grounds Commission. He was a long time member of the Gardner Redevelopment Authority and served as the Chairman of the Authority at the time of his death. Mr. Cormier was also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library and served as the Clerk of the corporation. He previously served in the capacity of Chairman of the Board for the House of Peace and Education (HOPE).
Mr. Cormier leaves his wife, the former Marcelle Coulombe, two adult children, Pamela Cormier Autery of Centerville, MA, and City Councilor Craig Cormier of Gardner. He also leaves five wonderful grandchildren.
Gardner will miss Ronald F. Cormier, a true public servant and a great man.
Mayor Nicholson on the Passing of Ronald F. Cormier
In his order on lowering the flag of the City of Gardner in memory of City Councilor Ronald F. Cormier, Mayor Michael Nicholson wrote, “Councilor Cormier was a strong advocate for the residents of this City and a true friend to many. To me, personally, he was a colleague, mentor, friend, and my former principal at Holy Rosary School during my middle school years. To others he was an educator, an elected official, a smiling face in the turkey dinner line at the annual Holy Rosary Bazaar or poutine factory, a pilot, an avid boater, an elected official, and most importantly, a loving pépère , father, and husband.”
The Mayor continued, “Aside from his work in public service, he also worked as an ardent advocate for education serving on the school board of Holy Rosary School and Holy Family Academy for several decades, including serving as the school’s interim principal for a brief period with his wife, Marcelle. However, his work in the public sector and his volunteer service in promoting Catholic education in Gardner were tied to each other through his work as the director of the J. Ulysse Cormier Government Program. Councillor Cormier knew how important it was to instill a sense of civic responsibility in our students and truly put his heart into this program to inspire students to get involved. He was often quoted as saying, “the goal of this program is not to get you to run for office, but to remind you how important it is to vote, and to know how to learn about issues when they come up when you are older. My goal is to make you an informed and educated citizen.” However, these efforts did prove fruitful with several of the former students of this program running for office and making a difference – including his son, City Councillor At-Large Craig Cormier, Councillor At-Large George Tyros, and myself as mayor.”
Mayor Nicholson also wrote, “I feel confident in saying there is not a single aspect of this City, a project or initiative undertaken by its government, or an idea that was brought up in the last four decades that did not have his advice, input, or impact on. The impact he has had on Gardner is something that will be felt by generations after him, because he saw this City, believed in it, and knew what it could accomplish and be for the people who lived here.” Complete statement by Mayor Nicholson, CLICK HERE.
- Catholic Mass (1/30/2024)
Mass and Prayer for Officials and City of Gardner MA as a Whole
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about the service occurring this Sunday February 4, 2024 – 4pm at Holy Spirit Chapel of Annunciation Parish, 50 Metcalf Street, in South Gardner.
Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Mayor Nicholson Regarding the Mass
- Gardner Octopus (1/29/2024)
Gardner MA Business Owner Goes Soft – Sells Product with 8 Tentacles
Patty Bergstrom, owner of the Velvet Goose in Gardner is pictured with an Octopus Plush named Maya. It is available in 3 sizes from 9 inches up to a giant 30 inches in size
The Velvet Goose posted, “LOVE…LOVE…LOVE What has 3 hearts and 8 arms? Yes, the Octopus. Meet Maya. I think she’s my new favorite – especially for Valentine’s Day…”
For more information, visit their Facebook page, CLICK HERE.
Downtown Gardner MA has a variety of interesting products available from local merchants who consistently give back to the community.
Gardner Magazine enjoys showcasing local business whenever we can. If you have a story about your business email News@GardnerMagazine.com
- Ban Lifted (1/29/2024)
Parking Ban has Been Lifted in Gardner as of 1:00pm on January 29, 2024. Code Red call was received at 1:14pm
- Food 2024 (1/28/2024)
Poll Regarding Gardner Food Truck Festival – Here are the Results:
Gardner Magazine conducted a poll on Social Media over the weekend regarding the Gardner Food Truck Festival. “Simple Poll – The 7th Annual Gardner Food Truck Festival may take place in July 2024. What did you like or not like about previous food festivals and what would you like to see this year? Add your own options. I had to start with one, so I put “Tables and chairs”
On the Gardner, Ma – #1 What’s going on Page! 8.4k members, we got 1.8% participation with 152 votes. Number One result: Tables and Chairs. 50%. Other results: Bigger Variety of Food Trucks 25%, Gluten Free Options 13%, (Didn’t like) Waiting an hour or more 6%, Allow Dogs 4%, and Smaller portions 2%.
For the page on last year’s Gardner MA Food Truck Festival, CLICK HERE. It is expected the 7th Annual Gardner Food Truck Festival will take place in July. We will advise when we have the date.
On the Gardner MA: Uncensored 5.7k members, we got .7% participation with 39 votes. Tables and Chairs 38%, Live Music 38%, lots of trucks so lines are shorter 12%, have it in more open space 6%, and allow dogs 6%.
On the Gardner, MA: #1 Unbiased, Uncensored Local News Group 2.1k members we got .9% participation with 19 votes. Change of location, somewhere with shade 57%, Tables and chairs 27%, giant banquet tent with tables and chairs 16%.
Publisher’s Conclusion: It’s very obvious that people coming to the Gardner Food Truck Festival would like a place to sit and eat their food in the form of tables and chairs, and would like more trucks. On one group live music showed up as a big desire and on another, the desire for shade. So tables and chairs with umbrellas for shade or a large tent with tables and chairs inside would seem an easy solution. Live Music is usually included. In any case, if the operators of the 2024 Gardner Food Truck Festival want more people to come, they’ll provide a comfortable place for customers to sit down and eat their food. More people will come, they will stay longer, and they will spend more money. And make sure the music is an asset to the event, not a liability by being too loud and annoying customers.
- Delays 1-29-24 (1/28/2024)
UPDATE: A Facebook post now lists Gardner Public Schools as being CLOSED on Monday, January 29, 2024
Some School Delays on Monday, January 29, 2024 due to weekend storm
2 hour delay: Ashburnham-Westminster, Gardner, Lunenburg, Monty-Tech, Narragansett (and no AM Preschool)Athol-Royalston
Closed: Winchendon, Fitchburg, Leominster
In addition, MWCC posted on Facebook, “Due to inclement weather, all MWCC campuses will be closed on Monday, Jan. 29th. All day, evening, and remote classes are canceled.” MWCC confirmed the above information via Facebook messaging. However, they informed us that the Fitness Center handles things separately, and they are planning to be open at 8am as of this writing. We did not find info posted on the Boston TV station closing pages as stated on the MWCC Weather and Other Closings page .
For the latest throughout the state, visit this CBS Boston Link:
- Storm Warning (1/28/2024)
View complete forecasts with interactive maps and airport reports at the Gardner Magazine – Greater Gardner Weather Center, CLICK HERE.
Winter Storm Warning in Effect Sunday Through Monday in Greater Gardner MA
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Sunday January 28, 2024 and Monday January 29, 2024. Snow is predicted after 11am with several inches possible today and tonight.
- GFD Newbies (1/27/2024)
Gardner MA Fire Department congratulates Newest Firefighters
On January 27, 2024, Gardner Fire Department posted, “Congratulations to two of our newest Firefighters . Richard Belanger and Jacob Logan who both completed and graduated from the Massachusetts Fire Academy this past Friday. We wish them a long and healthy career here at the Gardner Fire Department. “
The Gardner Fire Department has been recently praised for its mutual aid to nearby communities.
Assisting at a separate rollover and a different car fire in Templeton.
Assisting at a house fire in Westminster.
During 2023, the Gardner Fire Department answered 233 mutual aid calls. See our article on 2023, CLICK HERE.
Surrounding communities also help the City of Gardner in time of need which is what makes the Mutual Aid system so invaluable to the region.
- Ban 1-27-24 (1/27/2024)
City of Gardner Announces Lengthy Parking Ban
Due to forecast inclement weather, parking ban is from Saturday January 27, 2024 at 10pm through Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 6am.
Parking ban Saturday starting at 10pm.
Parking ban all day Sunday.
Parking ban all day Monday.
Parking ban through Tuesday at 6am.
Mayor Nicholson advised that on Monday it will be decided if the ban can be shortened.
In a communication to the Gardner City Council and the media, the Mayor wrote, “We ask that you please limit all travel to only that which is necessary during that time to allow crews adequate space to clear the roads. There will be a municipal parking lot ban from 6am to 9am on Tuesday, January 30th to allow crews to clear the lots after the streets are completed.” And in explaining the length of the ban, the Mayor wrote, “Due to the City being down 9 DPW staff members (ie 9 plows) and the significant length of the storm not just for snow but also for icing conditions that require salt, the ban is much longer than usual. We will be monitoring the weather and if the ban is able to be shortened, that call will be made on Monday. However, out of an abundance of caution and in the best interest of public safety, this timeline has been issued. “
- 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.
- Chamber $10,000 (1/26/2024)
11 Chances out of 400 to Win – Gardner Chamber Fundraiser Odds Higher than Lottery
For years, the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce has had its Super Raffle fundraiser, offering $15,250 in cash prizes this year. Grand prize: $10,000, 2nd prize $1000, and $4250 total in 3rd and 4th prizes. Each chance is $100. To reserve your lucky ticket, call the chamber at (978) 632-1780 or visit their website. Drawing is Thursday, February, 29, 2024.
According to the Chamber, “The funds raised through this event will allow us to continue our mission to support local business and help
drive economic development in the seven communities we serve.”
- Bus Safety (1/25/2024)
An Article at Request of School Bus Driver Concerned About Kids
A conscientious school bus driver approached us on Social Media about an article on Bus Safety so here it is. It is very important that vehicles stop for a school bus for the safety of our most precious cargo: our children. The bus driver posted, “I have had numerous people run my reds! Please note that when I activate my red lights and stop sign EVERYONE MUST STOP. Please remember that we are transporting the most precious cargo, YOUR CHILDREN.”
Avoid stiff fines. Stop for the bus. Massachusetts Law requires you to stop for a bus with flashing lights and an extended stop sign, whether driving behind or toward the bus. You can drive past when the lights stop flashing or the sign folds back in. Similar rules apply to any smaller vehicles transporting students with flashing red lights and School Bus signs on top of the vehicle. So stop and save a life.
About 400,000 Massachusetts students are transported by school buses every year. The majority of school bus-related injuries are to pedestrians who are boarding or exiting a bus. Children ages 4 to 7 are at the highest risk. Mass.Gov has a School Bus Safety fact sheet, CLICK HERE.
- Zoning 1-23-24 (1/25/2024)
View the complete meeting agenda, CLICK HERE.
This project has been in the planning stages for some time. Our first article on Slocum Inc. was in December of 2021, CLICK HERE.
Gardner MA Zoning Board of Appeals Has Lengthy Meeting with Detailed Presentation for Matthews Road Project
While not the only item on the agenda, it was the most dynamic. Timothy Slocum has a location at 400 Matthews Road in Gardner and has been in front of the Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals on several occasions, most recently on January 23, 2024. He was represented by an attorney familiar with zoning matters who gave a complete presentation of the amended Project Design. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Keep in mind that Zoning decisions must be unanimous on the part of the Board. Timothy Slocum had 1 denial and 1 approval in an appearance before the Zoning Board of Appeals related to the property at 400 Matthews Road. The Warehouse and storage facilities item was not approved on a vote of 1-2 as unanimous consent of the entire board is required. The 2nd item: converting, fabricating, altering, finishing, and assembling was approved. It was unclear how the 2 different decisions affect the project.
Gardner Magazine spoke with Timothy Slocum and it was apparent he still has the energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to see the project through in a positive fashion. We are hoping to do a complete interview sometime soon. At the meeting, both of Timothy’s parents spoke positively on his behalf, sharing their pride in their son’s work ethic and accomplishments.
- Stephanie Young (1/25/2024)
Library Director Stephanie Young Speaks About the Offerings of Levi Heywood Memorial Library
We spoke with Levi Heywood Memorial Library Director Stephanie Young about one of Gardner’s favorite spots: the library. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Stephanie Young Interview 1-25-24 The Library Director spoke about local artists who display art at the library and the art prints which people can check out for 3 weeks at a time. Sometimes realtors borrow art to stage houses.
Stephanie Young spoke in detail about the various programs offered at the library for both children and adults. The schedule is posted on the Library website. Coming up for February vacation is a program called Eyes on Owls funded by the Gardner Cultural Council – they will be bringing live owls into the library. There will be a number of activities that week.
For adults, the library has launched a new program called the ProCraftonators, an adult crafting group meeting once a month. Last month they made snowflakes. On Valentine’s Day, they’ll be making a paper flower bouquet. In March, something with birds. And in April, May Day baskets. There’s room for 30 in the group and it’s close to half full. The director also spoke about the Book Club. They are talking about doing an herb club where they give out plants to people.
The Library Director informed us that patrons have access to over 200,000 titles of e-books and audio books. Last year, 16,000 copies were checked out. And as far as hard copy books, last year, the library lent out over 111,000 items. Library cards are FREE. Just stop in to the library to get one for you or your child.
- Health 1-22-24 (1/24/2024)
Interesting Board of Health Meeting Reveals New Septic System Technology
The Gardner MA Board of Health met on January 22, 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Board of Health 1-22-24 Much of the initial discussion revolved around Local Upgrade Approval for a Septic System and Well at 128 Wampanoag South. The new technology is called Geomat. For more from the manufacturer, CLICK HERE. Brandon Duchamp appeared on behalf of the homeowners who have an existing 2 bedroom house and need a Title V system on the property. He also described the proposed drilled well, going down several hundred feet to an aquifer. “We’re looking at a drilled bedrock well, what has a sealed casing all the way up.” Board of Health approval was obtained with a referral to the Conservation Commission for their opinion.
Health Director Micah Blondeau informed the Board about various matters regarding the landfill, stating, “We completed the erosion control project, the pump cleaning projects, all the brush and airways, grinding, and the metallurgy, so we’re just working on the next phase, …plan to improve the drainage and transfer station, and hopefully the facility.”
Blondeau spoke about trash. He stated “We’re also looking at costs for curbside recycling. So we’re most likely going to have to raise the costs to keep up with our costs. And just trying to get people to move more into the AFC throw bags rather than an additional toter.”
The Health Director spoke about various properties of concern and what the Board of Health was doing. He also spoke of the Abandoned Housing Initiative, ” take a house that has been abandoned, get it into a receivership, and then try to get it back into the housing market eventually. So we are coming up with a list of maybe 3 to 5 houses for now.”
Blondeau spoke about shelter for migrants and issues regarding trash and food. “right now they’re getting meals catered in. But it seems like they’re different from what they have been normally eating So, the people in the shelter are looking for more means to make their own food, which is kind of a problem.” He also remarked that having public transportation (MART) free for 6 months helps.
- Winter Fun (1/24/2024)
Winter Fun is Close by at the PACC in Gardner MA
The Polish American Citizens Club has an active Spring and Summer Band season. This winter there’s an opportunity for fun as well. The Club is holding a benefit on February 16, 2024 for Justin. The band is Whiskey Johnson.
Coming up is Mid Life Crisis on March 22, A Night of Zeppelin on April 19, and various other events from February through March.
For 2024 events, visit the Gardner Magazine 2024 events page.
To list your event, email News@GardnerMagazine.com
- Henry’s Heroes (1/23/2024)
Fundraiser Continues… Benefits son of Gardner City Councilor
Battling Cancer: Henry’s Heroes is a fundraiser for Henry, a 3 year old boy who is the son of City Councilor Alek Dernalowicz and his wife Angela. Henry is undergoing chemotherapy after having had surgery in December for a Stage 2 Wilm’s Tumor (also known as a nephroblastoma) . According to information on the Go Fund Me, CLICK HERE, the tumor was very large, about the size of a softball. Funds will go towards medical expenses, stay-at-home necessities, and anything else that might come up on his journey.
Fire Department Fundraiser: Gardner Fire Department Local 2215 is asking for donations. And they are selling t-shirts as a fundraiser to benefit Henry. They can be purchased at the Fire Station at 70 City Hall Avenue between the hours of 8am to 5:30pm. Tee shirts are $25 each. Cash and venmo accepted.
Please consider making a donation towards this worthy cause. To understand more about what a Wilm’s Tumor is, please visit this website, CLICK HERE.
- Service 1-23-24 (1/23/2024)
Public Service Committee Meets and Discusses Plans, Concerns, Projects, and Gets Answers.
The 1 hour+ meeting is filled with detailed questions and answers about many topics Gardner residents have asked about. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DPW Director Dane Arnold discussed the pay situation, stating the Gardner pays a typical DPW worker $2 less with truck drivers getting $6 less than other communities. Current union contract runs through June 30, 2024 and he would like to negotiate new contract with higher pay rates for DPW workers. The salt shed is on the capital improvement list – If Mayor finds the money, DPW will do the actual site work to save City money. Director Arnold spoke about the contractors which have recently come on board and mentioned that he hired his first staff member with a CDL license in about 5 years.
Engineer Rob Oliva discussed various projects including the Uptown Rotary, dam, the rail trail and pedestrian bridge, storm drainage, and the Sludge Landfill expansion. Oliva and Arnold answered some detailed questions from the City Councilors. Oliva stated that the Sludge -Landfill expansion, in the middle of permitting and design – MEPA has asked for public outreach sessions, coming up in near future. Then final impact report gets submitted. The City of Gardner is still in favor of an expansion, but is open to alternatives as technology changes and/or becomes available.
Conservation Agent Douglas Dillon reported on the irrigation upgrades at the Municipal Golf Course. Crystal Lake water will be protected. 1010 Green Street is expanding a substation fence. North County Land Trust will be doing some habitat restoration work in the Keyes Street area. The 170 Mill Street site project is impacted by problem with a dam which would cost an estimated $1.2 million to address.
- Trahan 1-23-24 (1/23/2024)
Congresswoman Lori Trahan visits Gardner MA to view some projects on January 23, 2024
In the photos: Congresswoman Trahan is shown presenting a ceremonial check for $350,000 to Mount Wachusett Community College, standing outside of Community Health Connections with a group of people including local officials, and presenting a ceremonial check for $5,052,810.00 to the Gardner Municipal Airport for Runway and Building Improvements.
Mayor Nicholson posted, “Thank you to Congresswoman Lori Trahan for spending most of the day in Gardner to see some of the projects receiving federal funding. From the new Community Health Connections facility to discuss their growth and services, to Mount Wachusett Community College’s new automotive location where a $350,000 grant was presented for new lessons on electric vehicle technology, to the Gardner Municipal Airport for the ribbon cutting and grand re-opening with new runway system and upgraded administration building…”
The Gardner Municipal Airport Project received about $5 million in Federal funding and about $500,000 from the State and the City of Gardner. Completed are runway improvements and an upgraded administration building. In process is a new Master Plan for which public input is still being sought. Chapters 1-3 were made available in October, and Chapters 1-4 were made available on January 18, 2024. View the 52 page draft plan here:
View Airport Commission page on City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE.
- Baldwinville Apartments (1/22/2024)
Earlier in January 2024, we spoke with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik about housing. In the interview, he spoke briefly about this project. Here is the article, CLICK HERE.
Baldwinville School Apartment Conversion Project To Move Forward in Templeton MA
Almost 3 years after the Community Preservation Committee voted to support the project, Town Administrator Adam Lamontagne, Select Board Member Matt Rivard, Developers Matt Zahler and Jason Korb joined Governor Maura Healey, Lt. Governor Driscoll, and Secretary Augustus for the grant award announcement in Jamaica Plain, MA on January 22, 2024 for the Baldwinville School project in Baldwinville.
The project consists of the conversion of a historic vacant school into housing and the construction of additional new units on the same site. Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities (EOHLC) will support the project with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. When completed, Baldwinville School Apartments will offer 54 total units of housing. Forty-nine units will be affordable to households earning less than 60% of AMI, with eight units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. The project has been designed to incorporate important elements of green design. The new construction units will meet Passive House standards.
Graphic in this article from a presentation of 3 years ago. The complete history of the project is given on the Town of Templeton website with links to various documents and videos. CLICK HERE.
- January Library (1/21/2024)
All of this is FREE. Anyone in the area can get a library card at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library in Gardner no matter what town you are from in Massachusetts. Do you have your FREE library card? Visit the library website, CLICK HERE. Listen to this PSA on any device. CLICK HERE.
Library PSA 1-21-24 Warm up Your Winter with the Library in Gardner
Gardner’s Levi-Heywood Memorial Library Warms Up the Winter with Exhibits, Programs, Workshops, Clubs, Groups, Study Rooms and new Arrivals. For the library calendar page, CLICK HERE.
At the Library Art Exhibit – The Watercolor and Acrylic paintings of Winchendon artist Russ Gaulin. Programs: Children’s Room Programs including Lego Club, STEAM Activities, Storytimes, and more Workshops: Creative Writing with Chad Lorion Groups: Adult Book Group Clubs: Spice Club, Knitting and Crochet Study Rooms: The library has 3 study rooms holding 4 to 8 persons each to be used for academic and literacy tutoring and group study. Use is FREE but must be reserved by an adult. New Arrivals: The Library warms the day with “Wowbrary” email alerts featuring the latest items which come in to the library including “bestsellers, movies, music CDS, audio books, children’s titles, cookbooks, mysteries, travel guides, health books, science fiction, and more…”
- Housing Help (1/21/2024)
Time Running Out to Obtain Housing Choice Voucher in Greater Gardner MA
The HCV Program, also known as Section 8, is accepting online applications until January 29, 2024. Review is promised within 2 weeks – no more year-long wait lists. May end sooner than date listed if demand is higher than expected. Here is the link for the online application.
To qualify you must have a low or very low annual income. The program pays a subsidy directly to landlords and families pay the remaining rent difference. If you know someone in need, tell them about this.
- Ice Safety (1/21/2024)
It may be cold, but the ice may not be safe in Greater Gardner MA
Mass.gov has the following recommendations: If the ice is 2 inches or less, stay off completely. Wait until the ice is at least 4 inches thick for ice fishing or other activities on foot, 5 inches for a snowmobile or ATV, at least 8 inches to a foot for a car or small pickup truck, and 12 to 15 inches for a medium truck.
Some things to think about: New ice can be stronger than old ice. For example, a foot of old, partially thawed ice may cave under your weight while four inches of newly formed ice may not. Ice itself doesn’t freeze uniformly, so one area may be safer while another may not be. And any ice formed over moving water can have dangerous thin spots.
Ways to keep safe: Tell someone about your plans. Bring a phone in case of a problem. Carry ice picks and rope to help get yourself out. Wear a life jacket. For more tips, visit this site.
- Cold 1-20-24 (1/20/2024)
City of Gardner sent out a message informing people that the Community Room at the Police Station is open starting at 6pm as a warming center.
- Thibault-Munoz (1/20/2024)
How to contact Ward 1 Councilor David Thibault-Munoz: Email: dthibault-munoz@gardner-ma.gov — Phone: (508) 404-4365 Ward 1 Facebook Group, CLICK HERE.
Ward One Councilor Thibeault-Munoz Knocks on Doors to Serve Constituents
We spoke with Gardner MA Ward 1 Councilor David Thibault-Munoz about his role as a City Councilor and how he is addressing constituent concerns. Listen on any device.. CLICK PLAY.
Thibault-Munoz Interview 1-20-24 Councilor Thibault-Munoz explained that he knocked on over 300 doors while running for the Ward 1 seat and has a long list of things that residents would like to see addressed. He said, “The most important or pressing one right now has to do with drainage issues on particularly Cherry Street and Lawrence and Crestwood Ave. I want to see these issues of storm drain issues addressed, hopefully ahead of the spring and the big melts, because residents are impacted negatively by when water is not drained properly.”
The Councilor also spoke about concerns regarding speeding vehicles on Betty Spring Road. Other residents have raised concerns about potholes, trees, and certain fields in disrepair. He is in favor of increasing pay to DPW workers so vacancies can more easily be filled. We spoke about resources, taxes, and even addressing the affordable housing issue. Councilor Thibeault-Munoz will be serving on the Public Service Committee and intends to be accessible to constituents. He stated, “I believe that residents should hold their city councilors and other government officials accountable and that government officials should listen and have an open line with residents and their constituents.”
- January 20th (1/20/2024)
What does January 20, 2024 mean to Greater Gardner MA?
January 20th is 1 year away from the next Presidential Inauguration and it will be an interesting year to be sure. But what else is today? It is National No Phones at Home Day, Take a Walk Outdoors Day, National Coffee Break Day, National Cheese Lovers Day, International Day of Acceptance, National Camcorder Day, National Buttercrunch Day, National Disc Jockey Day, National Use Your Gift Card Day, and Penguin Awareness Day. Listen to our report on any device, CLICK PLAY.
January 20th – a Day of Many Days With so many days on one day, it’s easy to figure out that somebody or some organization simply thought these days into existence. Next year, they’ll exist again. On January 20, 2025, all the talk will be about who we will be inaugurated as the next President of the United States. Yes, it will be a most interesting year ahead.
- 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.”
- Hardern 1-19-24 (1/19/2024)
OFFICIAL Gardner Magazine Cartoon – Karen Hardern – Gardner City Councilor Ward 4 She Doesn’t Like Parking Meters But Loves Iced Coffee – She’s Karen Hardern
Gardner MA City Councilor Karen Hardern spoke with us about parking meters, public safety, and yes, her love for ice coffee. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Karen Hardern 1-19-24 Karen Hardern serves as Ward 4 City Councilor now just starting her 7th term. When asked about priorities for this year she stated, “I would like to see something done with the parking meters. As you might know, there are quite a few of them that just do not function anymore. They’re outdated, and there they sit. So they’re not of much use in that shape and form. Something really needs to be done….I would like to see those meters taken out.”
The Councilor says she likes to help people when they call, “That’s the part of the job, of the position that I love, is dealing with the people. That’s why I keep running. I want to help.”
Councilor Hardern is proud of the Sex Offender Ordinance she was able to get passed by the Council some years back. “that ordinance would, you know, make others think, hey, maybe I don’t want to go there. Maybe they will settle in another city or town as opposed to ours.” Karen Hardern complimented the Chief and Deputy Chief of the Police Department saying they are remarkable men. And she stated, “All the force, these police officers, God bless them. I mean, that’s a tough job in today’s world, and I think they all do the best they can at work“
Hardern’s biggest thing every day, “an iced coffee and a New York Post, because that’s what I like to read.”
- DeMeo Wrong (1/19/2024)
DeMeo Wrong – Gardner MA City Councilors Speak Out
Paul DeMeo appeared at a joint hearing of the City Council and Planning Board, alleging that the 2 zoning articles(re Sports Betting and Marijuana) were illegal. He also stated that Gardner is limited to only one pot dispensary. However, the record shows that while Councilor Dana Heath motioned for the City Council to send the 2 articles to the Planning Board, the City Council as a whole voted to send the two items to the Planning Board. In addition, current Gardner Zoning allows 2 pot dispensaries.
Gardner Magazine spoke with City Councilor Dana Heath on the issue. We also spoke with City Councilor Karen Hardern. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
Interviews 1-19-24 Councilor Heath stated, “I don’t understand how an agreement could be made that there will only be one. …, we have a zoning agreement of two that I’m trying to change to four.”
Councilor Hardern stated, “I think Mr. DeMeo, and I’m not going to say anything too bad, but I think that he needs to do his homework more thoroughly before he does what he does or says what he says.”
- GALA Home (1/19/2024)
Lake Wampanoag Area Still Searching for a Permanent Home, GALA plans events for 2024
The Gardner Area League of Artists has been storing items in the Helen Mae Sauter School building since last Fall. According to GALA President Deb Giordano, due to a badly leaking roof, the group has been asked to move their stuff out of storage as the City’s insurance company is not allowing anyone in to the building for liability reasons. GALA says, “So we are again on the hunt for a new location for the arts in Gardner.”
Gardner Magazine has reached out to Gardner Mayor Nicholson about whether there is space available at the Elm Street School, the new Waterford Community Center, or the current Senior Center. We will advise you when we have more information. The Mayor has previously expressed a desire to keep GALA in Gardner.
GALA events for 2024 include: Art and Music Festival taking place May 18 & 19, 2024 at the Red Apple Farm and Brew Barn in Phillipston. Artists and Artisan vendors are still being sought for the event. For more information, visit the GALA website, Click Here.
GALA has organized a juried exhibition entitled “Gardner’s OPEN SPACES” to be held from June 7 to August 25, 2024 at the Gardner Museum. 80 photos taken in Gardner are on the GALA website and can be used for inspiration. CLICK HERE. Some of the open spaces depicted are: Cowee Pond, Alisauskas Conservation Area, Dunn Pond State Park, Crystal Lake, Ebenezer Keyes Conservation Area, Gardner Trails, Perley Brook Reservoir (Trails), High Ridge Wildlife Management Area, Lake Wampanaug Wildlife Sanctuary, Wilder Brook Trail, North Central Pathway, Cummings Otter River Conservation Area, Rome Conservation Area, Gardner City Forest, and Bailey Brook Conservation Area
- State Address (1/17/2024)
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey Delivers State of the Commonwealth Address
On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, Governor Maura Healy delivered a 56 minute address on the State of the Commonwealth. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
State of the Commonwealth – 1-17-24 The Governor thanked a number of people and stated, “the true strength of Massachusetts is our people“. Governor Healey spoke about progress in education. The Governor said, “our economy is strong – Massachusetts has more jobs than ever before, and unemployment has been at all-time lows. But we also know prices are high, and too many families have a hard time making ends meet.”
The Governor spoke about meeting goals, “Today, Massachusetts is more affordable, more competitive, and more equitable than it was a year ago….I truly believe Massachusetts is the best place in the world to live, work, go to school, and raise a family.”
- Triple Meetings (1/17/2024)
Gardner Magazine Official Cartoon of Calvin Brooks – entire City Council and School Committee coming soon.
And they met thrice: 3 Meetings of City of Gardner MA City Council January 16, 2024
with School Committee: Agenda/Packet. Meeting was held to determine representative to the Monty Tech Regional School Committee. Nominations were Calvin Brooks and Alexander Commodore. Calvin Brooks was appointed on a vote of 12 to 3. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
City Council – School Committee 1-16-24 with Planning Board: Agenda/Packet. Zoning issues – Trevor Beauregard spoke for the Planning Board stating the Planning Board recommended both the zoning item adding Sports Betting to the Table of uses and the item increasing the quota of marijuana establishments in the City. Paul DeMeo appeared and complained that the meeting was illegal due to his belief that a single City Councilor can not propose a Zoning Amendment, only City Council can in his opinion. However, at the time, subsequent to Dana Heath proposing both items, City Council did approve sending to Planning Board, rendering that argument moot. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
City Council – Planning Board 1-16-24 Regular City Council Meeting Agenda/Packet.– Calvin Brooks was sworn in as Councilor at Large. Various appointments were referred to the Appointments Committee. Zoning Articles referred to Planning Board for final recommendation. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Regular City Council 1-16-24
- Open Checkbook (1/17/2024)
Show Me the Checkbook – Gardner MA Has for Awhile
How much has Gardner paid for various expenses in the last decade? Show me the exact expense and the check number? And I want it now. Sounds like a request not easily achieved right? —- And you would be wrong. The City of Gardner is so transparent that you can see how every dollar is spent. Every dollar and every check going back to 2014. Now, how about that.
Here is the Open Checkbook: Click here to open the checkbook . Sort by category. Sort by vendor. You can even export the data to your favorite spreadsheet.
For more information on financial transparency in the City of Gardner, here is the financial transparency page, CLICK HERE.
And the City of Gardner says, “If you have questions about a particular transaction, please direct your question to the responsible department. “
- Parking 1-16 (1/16/2024)
Due to weather, City of Gardner has an on street parking ban from 7pm January 16th to January 17th at, 6am. There will be a parking ban in Municipal Parking lots from 7am to 9am on January 17th.
- Burger Poll (1/15/2024)
On the group which gave us enough data to mean anything, Gardner, Ma, – #1 What’s going on Page!, Home-cooked: 36%, William’s Restaurant: 23%, South Gardner Hotel: 15%, and Gardner Ale House: 13%. Balance got 1 or 2 votes each.
Publisher’s Note: While the Burger Poll itself is interesting, we did the poll to confirm what we thought – that the constant barrage of nonsense political posts was turning people off and keeping them away from certain groups. Only the group which doesn’t allow the over-the-top inflammatory posts had enough engagement to yield data. The other groups have been getting the OFF switch by many of their members.
Poll on Best Cheeseburgers in Gardner MA
We created a poll on Social Media to answer: Who makes the best cheeseburgers in Gardner? Add your own options. To create the poll, we had to put in 1 option, so we started with “Home-cooked”. In Gardner MA: Uncensored, activity of the group has been limited by a large amount of unwanted political stuff, reducing engagement. However, Home-cooked came in about 60% and Gardner Ale House was 20% with Paramount at 7%. Very few votes came in on the Gardner, MA: #1 Unbiased, Uncensored Local News Group – we believe low numbers due to to unwelcome content allowed there.
On the local group which doesn’t allow political nonsense posts, we got a more valuable result with almost 100 votes, Gardner, Ma, – #1 What’s going on Page! Results are shown in the chart below. Note that there was only 1 vote for a fast food place, others not mentioned even once.
Poll Results Pie Chart
- Heart-Shaped (1/15/2024)
Planning a Heart-Shaped Pizza for Valentine’s Day in Greater Gardner MA?
After we saw a Facebook post about Heart-Shaped pizzas, we used our Artificial Intelligence software to come up with the perfect Heart-shaped pizza. The AI took the extra step of cutting almost everything in the shape of a heart. A Facebook user had posted in part, “Which pizza shop do you think would accommodate putting the pepperoni in a heart shape for me on a pizza?”
Gardner’s West Broadway Pizza and Seafood responded, “We can, we have, and we will do it again.” They also posted a photo of a Pizza Bouquet.
Gardner’s Parker House of Pizza responded, “We would love to make you a heart shape pizza or make a heart shaped on the pizza, for your anniversary!!”
Ask your pizza shop if they’ll make you a heart-shaped pizza for Valentine’s Day.
- Triple Feature (1/15/2024)
Gardner MA City Council with Triple Feature of Meetings on Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Meeting a day later than usual due to the Monday Martin Luther King Day holiday, the Gardner City Council is having 3 meetings on Tuesday, January 16, 2024:
6:25pm – Joint convention with School Committee to pick Monty Tech Rep. Complete Packet CLICK HERE.
6:45pm – Joint Public Hearing with Planning Board on Marijuana and Sports Betting Zoning Items – Complete Packet, CLICK HERE.
7:30pm – Regular Meeting with a number of appointments and communications. Complete Packet, CLICK HERE
Publisher’s Note: Significant in the Regular Meeting packet above is a communication from Mayor Nicholson regarding paving in the City. The public should read this as the amount of careful planning is impressive. And most significant: in the last few years, more paving is getting done.
- Museum 2024 (1/14/2024)
Gardner MA Museum 2024: A Season of Art and Top-Notch Lectures
The Gardner Museum on Pearl Street in Gardner will delight visitors in 2024 with 2 major art exhibits during Spring and Summer and a huge Lecture Series lineup.
An artist reception for a spring solo art exhibit will be held on March 10th from 1 to 4pm. The exhibit of Mark Lore will run until May 26th during regular museum hours. Lore is a landscape painter and retired fine arts educator and the exhibit is entitled, “Expressionist Landscapes – The First 50 Years” More at his website, CLICK HERE.
The museum will have an exciting summer exhibit in 2024 running from June 7th until August 25th during regular museum hours. It’s called “Gardner’s Open Spaces” and it’s a juried exhibition organized by the Gardner Area League of Artists. A preview reception will be held on June 6th from 6-7pm. GALA website, CLICK HERE.
The Lecture Series for 2024 includes a huge variety of topics including Irish Step Dance, Survival and Knife Safety, Finding Inner Peace and Health, Harvey Bowden Essay Contest Winning Research Essays by area High School students, Just Policing with former Gardner PD Chief Edward Cronin, Annie Fields, Foraging Edibles at Your Doorstep, Arabian Night at the Museum, Stone Walls, and Monarch Butterflies.
For more information including the Preliminary 2024 Spring Lecture Series Schedule on pdf, CLICK HERE. Schedule is subject to change, but this is the latest available. For the Gardner MA Museum website, CLICK HERE. The Gardner Museum opens for the season on March 1, 2024. An annual membership is: Student -$1, Individual -$20, or Family $30.
- MLK 2024 (1/13/2024)
Martin Luther King Day Celebrated Monday January 15, 2024 in Greater Gardner MA
The Reverend Martin Luther King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech on August 28, 1963 on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. His dream was that all “would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for combating racial inequality through nonviolent resistance. Sadly, he was assassinated in 1968. More, CLICK HERE.
All of us are equal in the eyes of God.
Celebrate this day with love in your heart.
- Hotline 1-13-24 (1/13/2024)
Host Steve Wendell announced that WGAW will have 3 hours of LIVE Coverage during the Iowa Caucus night on Monday, January 15, 2024. WGAW’s Hotline Radio is heard Saturdays from 12:10 to 2pm on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and ive from anywhere in the world via live stream.
News from Gardner’s Hit Show – WGAW Hotline Radio 1-13-24
Mayor Michael Nicholson was the first guest on Hotline Radio. Mayor Nicholson explained migrants which have been relocated to Gardner will soon qualify for work permits. Federal government requires a 6 month waiting period even though they have refugee – migrant status. He told the story of one person who inquired about working for the City as a plow driver, unfortunately they hadn’t seen snow before and didn’t have the required qualifications. The Mayor explained that 40 students in the Gardner Public School system are children of migrants.
In other news, the Mayor announced that MART is adding a brand new bus route in Gardner. This is the new Gardner Route 3 schedule in pdf format, CLICK HERE. It is supposed to shorten the average route loop time in half. All MART rides are fare FREE until June 30, 2024.
Gardner City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas appeared and discussed the 3 upcoming meetings on Tuesday, January 16th. See our other article with details, packets, and agendas, CLICK HERE Kazinskas stated she was glad the City Council was able to establish the Appointments Committee. She said the City is lucky to have heads of all departments. She stated Chapter 90 and Chapter 70 funding not expected to be affected by State budget shortfall.
- Palliative Care (1/13/2024)
Wendy Coutu Leads Team as Heywood Expands Palliative Care
For adults facing advanced serious illnesses, promoting quality of life and addressing distressing symptoms is of great importance. Often, the focus of this care has been only on cancer patients. Heywood Healthcare is fulfilling a goal to help more people by expanding what is called “palliative care” services.
Nurse Practitioner Wendy Coutu leads a Heywood Healthcare team dedicated to this type of care, focusing on improving the quality of life for patients and their families by addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients dealing with complex health issues. The team may include attending medical providers, nurses, social workers, case managers, pharmacists and nutrition staff. Bottom line: If you have an advanced, serious illness, there’s now more help for you. Coutu stated, “Heywood Healthcare is committed to providing holistic and patient-centered care, and the expansion of outpatient palliative care services reflects this commitment to meeting the needs of our community.” For additional information visit this page on the Heywood.org website.
- Great Students (1/13/2024)
Seniors Help Unload Food at Gardner CAC 
Students Attend Conference on Early College 
GHS Student Success Assembly 
At MWCC Open House for Early College Program 
GHS Alumni Talk about College Experiences Gardner High School posts reflect Successful Students making positive impact in Community
Gardner High School students help with non-profits in Greater Gardner including the CAC. Gardner High students show their willingness to participate in programs which will facilitate future success. And Gardner High School alumni come back to help current students.
GHS posted, “Thank you to this group of seniors who helped unload a truck full of food today at the Gardner CAC.”
GHS posted, “Thank you to this group of students who went to a conference on Early College Programs at Worcester State University. They represented GHS well and are great examples of why our Early College Program is so successful. “
GHS posted, “Our annual Student Success Assembly was held today. Thank you to our student panel who shared their experiences about how it’s never too late to turn things around and get back on track. They are proof that anything is possible if you work hard and get some help when needed along the way. It was great for some of our younger students to hear their stories. Thank you also to our schools counselors for organizing this event.”
GHS posted, “Excellent attendance at the open house at MWCC for our Early College Program. We are so proud of this program and to be able to offer FREE college credits to our students. Reach out if you have any questions or need any information. “
GHS posted, “Thank you to these GHS alumni who took time out of their busy schedules to talk about their college experiences with our seniors. Great information sharing about college classes, managing their time, living in dorms and navigation college life.”
- PD Work (1/13/2024)
Gardner PD Interacts with Community to Encourage Positive Choices and adds to its Team
Community Interaction – Gardner MA Police Department posted, “Boy Scout Troop 4 interacted with our dedicated law enforcement officers to earn their Crime Prevention Merit Badge. From insightful discussions on drug awareness and dangers to exploring the police station our scouts gained some valuable knowledge and experience to make positive choices. Good work Troop 4!”
Two new officers join the Team – Gardner PD also posted, “Last Thursday Gardner PD had two new officers graduate the Lynnfield Police Academy. Please welcome Officer Nathan Golisano and Officer Frimpong Antwi who have completed 22 weeks of intense training. They now start their journey with the departments 10 week field training program where they are assigned to a veteran officer to help guide them into being a Gardner Police Officer. At the conclusion of the FTO program they will be assigned to a shift and be responsible for a patrol sector in the City. Congratulations Officer Golisano and Officer Antwi and welcome to the GPD and the great City of Gardner!”
- 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.”
- Bad Accident (1/12/2024)
Life Flight Helicopter shown taking off with a patient having critical injuries after a serious motor vehicle accident on January 11, 2024. In addition to the driver of 1 vehicle having critical injuries, 11 passengers of a van had minor injuries.
Gardner MA Vehicle Accident Involves a Dozen People on January 11, 2024
From Gardner Fire Department, “Gardner Fire Group 3 had a very busy shift yesterday including a very serious motor vehicle accident at Green St and Rt 140. Crews arrived to find a car vs a van carrying 11 people in it. Luckily, the 11 people in the van had very minor injuries. Unfortunately, the driver of the car sustained critical injuries and Life Flight was requested. A full fire department recall was also requested for station coverage. The critical patient was extricated and transported directly to the MWCC landing zone and immediately transferred to LifefFight, and and flown directly to the Umass Medical Trauma Center. Umass Medical has stationed a Life Flight helicopter at the Fitchburg airport permanently now and can be here in Gardner in less than 10 minutes! Time means everything when getting a critical patient to a trauma center. “
- Budget Dog (1/12/2024)
Budget Dog for Greater Gardner MA – Saving Money in 2024
Budgets are tight in every household, or, if not now, at some time your budget might be tight. The advice of Budget Dog will help you save money so you have a greater cushion in an emergency.
Here are the subjects and categories we will cover: Regular Savings, Entertainment/TV, Cable, Internet, Electricity, Heating, Water and Sewer, Phone Service, Car Buying, Groceries, Clothing, Furniture, Yard Sales or Flea Market, Transportation, Taxes, and Insurance.
Visit our complete Budget Dog page, CLICK HERE.
Quick Tip: Save a little every week, assume everything is negotiable, and assume you’re paying too much. You’ll easily save some money.
- Aldi Lift (1/11/2024)
Aldi to Give Gardner MA A Lift Soon
These 3 Lifts were observed meeting up with one another on January 10, 2024 at the site of the soon-to-be Aldi Grocery Store at Timpany Plaza in Gardner. It is not known why they were in that position or why the distances among them varied.
- Patriot Pizza (1/11/2024)
Patriot Pizza in Gardner Plaza Big on Signage
When you pass by this location, it’s easy to get hungry with the choices in bold view Whether you get a couple large pizzas or go for something more, you can’t miss that sign!
With all the talk about some of the new places in the City, we thought we’d show you a current favorite.
- Jersey Mike’s (1/11/2024)
Jersey Mike’s Plans to open Gardner location in 2024
Timpany Crossroads Shopping Plaza is getting closer to being completely filled with the announcement that a Jersey Mike’s plans to open in 2024. A franchise owner with 4 other locations is bringing the subs to Gardner.
So how much is a Jersey Mike’s Sub? At the location in Shrewsbury, the Original Italian is $10.45 for a regular and $18.35 for a giant. A Mike’s Famous Philly is $9.55 for a regular and $17.25 for a giant. The chain describes itself as having “fresh sliced, authentic Northeast-style subs on freshly baked bread.”
- Chipotle Plan (1/11/2024)
Chipotle Plan to Enhance Traffic Pattern in Timpany Plaza
The Gardner Planning Board met on January 9, 2024 and heard a presentation regarding the Chipotle Project slated to begin in the Spring at Timpany Plaza. The existing bank building will be removed and the site will be reconfigured for a brand new 2,325 square foot Chipotle Restaurant. The restaurant is expected to open sometime in 2024.
The Planning Board approved the Definitive Site Plan for Chipotle and a Special Permit for the Drive-thru.
Another item: The matter of the Rear Main Street Project needed to be continued until February 13th meeting (weather issue for engineers coming from 2 hrs. away)
Listen to the Planning Board meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY
Planning Board 1-9-24 There will be another food choice very close by as Jersey Mike’s will be opening a location in the Timpany Crossroads Plaza.
- Filmed – Gardner (1/11/2024)
City of Gardner Releases Short Video “Filmed in Gardner”
The City of Gardner stated with the video: “From larger productions such as Castle Rock and Dexter to the smaller iRobot commercials and every project in between, the City of Gardner has provided aesthetic and proper locations, the support required to ensure an efficient and successful project, and the ancillary resources that strengthen a positive relationship within the process. We look forward to continuing this successful relationship with the film industry and welcoming more projects in the future. “ Play Video right from this page.
- Chair Veggies (1/10/2024)
Genetically-Engineered Vegetable and Fruit Chairs
A way for Gardner to reinvent itself is to capitalize on these vegetables and fruits: Chairmato, Chaircumber, Chairtato, Chair Pepper, Chairchini, Corn Chair, Bean Chair, Chairbana, Yam Chair, Chairtuce, Carrot Chair, and the Broccoli Chair.
No vegetables or fruits were harmed in the creation of these ridiculous items.
Something tells us that the world will simply choose to “sit” on these ideas rather than implement them. What would you create, an avocado chair? That would be ridiculous.
- Conservation 1-8-24 (1/10/2024)
Gardner Conservation Commission Discusses Projects and More
At a Gardner MA Conservation Commission Meeting on January 8, 2024, the members briefly discussed the extension of the existing storage facility at 143 Colony Road, various electrical transmission lines, land clearing on Kelton Street, the North County Land Trust request for determination, Elementary School wetland replication, and 170 Mill Street. New Conservation Agent Douglas Dillon was introduced. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Conservation Commission 1-8-24
- Burning 2024 (1/10/2024)
Open Burning Season is January 15 to April 30th in Greater Gardner MA
If you’re in Gardner, go to the MassFire website and apply now for a burning permit. Then call (978) 630-7019 between 8:30am and 1pm to activate the permit each day you plan to burn. Burn from 10am to 4pm only. There are limits on what you can burn, restrictions on how the fire must be supervised, and permission is needed every day as there may be days when the Fire Department says NO due to weather conditions even if you have a permit. For more information and details on the regulations so you don’t get in trouble, please visit this Fire Department page on the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE. or this general page, CLICK HERE.
Not in Gardner? No problem. Check with your local fire department.
- L.E.A.D. 2024 (1/9/2024)
Law Enforcement Appreciation Day in Greater Gardner MA
January 9, 2024 is National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Gardner Magazine recognizes the contributions of law enforcement on this day and “the difficult and sometimes impossible career they have chosen, in public service to us all” Wear blue today if you can, and if you see an officer, say thank you. The following AUDIO is based on an article from the CDC, CLICK HERE. Listen to how our officers put their lives at risk in this report by our Leona Bacon, CLICK PLAY.
Law Enforcement Risks – Leona Bacon Covered are the risks of being struck outside a vehicle, getting stuck by needles, hazards of shiftwork, occupational stress, injuries from interacting with suspects, hazards of training, and risks of being the first to respond. To all our LEO’s, thank you!
- Messy Week (1/8/2024)
To view the latest weather forecast from multiple sources, weather maps, and airport reports, visit the Greater Magazine Greater Gardner Weather Center, CLICK HERE.
Plan for the worst this week: Watch for black ice when it gets colder at night. Expect some falling branches from wind. Expect flooding.
Messy Odd Weather Ahead This Week in Greater Gardner MA
The National Weather Service report shows Tuesday, January 9th starting off as a relatively innocent cloudy day with a high just above freezing at 34. A Light wispy wind up to 10mph sneaks in during the afternoon. A tease of snow occurs with accumulation of less than one inch. Tuesday night, the mess begins with rain that might be mixed with snow and probably switches to all rain after 11pm. Temperature is expected to go up to around 47 by about 5am and the wind is expected to get stronger increasing up to 29mph after midnight with gusts as high as 47mph. Chance of precipitation is 100 percent. Midweek on Wednesday, there’s rain likely before 2pm, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, but warm for this time of year with a high near 51. The wind will still be there of up to 23mph and gusts to 37mph with chance of precipitation being 60 percent.
Thursday and Friday there is forecast to be a reprieve from the rain with mostly sunny skies both days and a high near 38 both days.
After midnight on Friday, there’s more of a mess with rain possibly mixed with snow and then all rain after 4am. Wind is up to 23mph with gusts as high as 36mph. Saturday, there’s rain, mainly before 1pm and a high of 51. Winds up to 29mph with gusts as high as 44mph. The forecast for Sunday and Monday is for partly sunny days with a temperature high up to 29 and lots of wind again with gusts of 30 or more mph.
- Zlotnik Hours (1/8/2024)
State Representative Zlotnik Has a Slot for You in Gardner MA
Jonathan Zlotnik has posted new office hours for the New Year. The Regular office hours at Gardner City Hall are Monday 9am to 4:30pm, Thursday 9am to 4:30pm, and Friday 9am to 1pm.
Special office Hours are: Saturday 1-13-24 in Ashburnham at Stevens Memorial Library from 10am to 11:30am, Tuesday 1-16-24 at Gardner City Hall from 5pm to 7pm, Saturday 1-27-24 in Winchendon at Beal’s Memorial Library from 10am to 11:30am, Saturday 1-27-24 in Templeton at the Templeton Senior Center from 12:30 to 2pm
He also states that “Appointments Readily Available!” Contact information: jon.zlotnik@mahouse.gov Phone (978) 410-9559
View the article and listen to the recent interview with Jon Zlotnik on Housing, CLICK HERE.
- Delays 1-8-24 (1/7/2024)
Various School Districts Having Morning Storm Delays
The following School Districts are having a 2 hour delay on Monday, January 8, 2024: Ashburnham-Westminster, Athol-Royalston, Fitchburg, Gardner, Leominster, Lunenburg, Montachusett Regional Voc. Tech, Narragansett Regional, Quabbin Regional, The Village School – Royalston, Wachusett Regional, and Winchendon- If your community is not listed, it may not have a delay or there may be updated information. Latest closings and delays, CLICK HERE.
- 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.
- Power 1-7-24 (1/7/2024)
Over 150 power outages in Massachusetts Affecting just under 15,000 Customers in the State as of 9:30am
As of 9:30am on Thursday, January, 7, 2024, there were about 400 customers without power in the Greater Gardner area – Gardner and Westminster. Power was expected to be restored about 11:15am to local customers. For the latest power outage map, CLICK HERE. Snow is still falling as of this report.
- Kamuda Explains (1/7/2024)
Hotline Radio airs Saturdays from 12:10 to 2pm on WGAW AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and live streamed to anywhere.
Carolyn Kamuda Explains Abrupt Resignation from Gardner MA City Council in Hotline Interview
Carolyn Kamuda won election to the City Council in November, was sworn in on January 1st, but resigned on January 3rd. She appeared on WGAW’s Hotline Radio on January 6, 2024 where host Steve Wendell stated, “Tell us whatever you want to say about what happened.’
Kamuda stated, “I know there’s been a lot of rumors out there and it’s a good way to put it out to the public to somewhat clear up any rumors that may be going around. I kind of was very vague when I was talking to Lizzie Kazinskas as well as the City Clerk and a few other people about what actually was going on, but a lot of people watching my Facebook page since Thanksgiving know what I’ve been going through.”
Kamuda went on to explain that her friend Norman has a sister who had surgery at the beginning of December which turned very bad. “She had sepsis, she had blood transfusions, she’s now on a feeding tube and right now we’re just waiting to talk to another surgeon on Monday… it’s been quite an ordeal…taken a toll on my health as well as being stressful for him.”
Kamuda explained that she has a sister who became ill “and she was rushed to the hospital actually a couple of days ago with a pulmonary embolism. Those two things added a lot of stress to my life and I was actually looking forward to serving as councilor.”
And lastly, Kamuda explained that she has some personal health issues. “I also got a letter from my doctor saying that I have to see another rheumatologist because of some blood tests that I had. Many of the things that I’ve had in my life that have been fairly debilitating have been autoimmune diseases and it seems like that has come back again. Anything that has to be addressed and reducing stress is one of the major factors in that kind of reemerging in my life. I had gone into remission and now it’s come back again. So that’s the story in a nutshell.”
Our best wishes to Carolyn Kamuda, to her family, and to her friends. May 2024 end better for all.
- Fire 2023 (1/6/2024)
March 15th storm – 2023 
Elm Street Fire Station 1920 Gardner Fire 2023 and Avoiding Carbon Monoxide Issues in 2024
Gardner Fire Department had 5698 incidents in 2023. This compares to 5430 incidents in 2022. Rescue and EMS calls made up the majority with 3679. There were 7 less cooking stove fires with a total of 110, 181 motor vehicle accident calls, 35 building fires, 8 vehicle fires, 7 chimney fires, and 19 brush or grass fires. See all incidents, CLICK HERE.
In 2023, the Gardner Fire Department had 10 carbon monoxide incidents. We have a short statement from State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine on the importance of remembering that carbon monoxide hazards go hand in hand with cold and winter weather. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY
State Fire Marshal Davine on Carbon Monoxide According to the Fire Marshall, “Home heating equipment is the #1 source of residential CO! Be sure you have alarms on every level or your home, and keep vents and flues clear of snow!”
- Pennington Search (1/6/2024)
This is one of the photos which we have enhanced which more accurately shows Aaron Pennington. Some of the other media reports have gone back to an original photo which law enforcement subsequently updated. Of course, today his appearance could be completely different.
Editorial: Law Enforcement Has Been in Continual Search for Pennington
Media Reports on January 5th and January 6th about a “resumed search” for Aaron Pennington are at worst somewhat inaccurate and at the very least incomplete. Law enforcement we have spoken to over the past several months have indicated that all avenues have been explored regarding the location of the fugitive suspected in the murder of his wife. The search is local, state, national, and international, and just because some local lead is pursued does not change the fact: they haven’t found him yet and they are looking everywhere using every local, state, and Federal tool at their disposal. He might be found tomorrow or sometime down the line. But rest assured, they are looking for him. And the best way of catching someone is not to reveal all the information which is known. That is the procedure followed in every fugitive hunt. Law enforcement is much more capable, talented, vigilant, and on the task than it is often given credit for and we are very thankful for the job they do every day.
- Parking 1-6-24 (1/5/2024)
Forecast Storm for Saturday Results in Parking Ban
Parking Ban in the City of Gardner begins at 11:30am Saturday January 6th and ends Monday morning January 8th at 6am.
Latest weather information at the Greater Gardner Weather Center, CLICK HERE.
- Zlotnik – Housing (1/5/2024)
No politicians were harmed in transforming Representative Jonathan Zlotnik in to the lovable Disney character shown.
The Man Who Cares About Housing – Interview with Jonathan Zlotnik
Jonathan Zlotnik Cares About Housing: We spoke about housing issues. Your State representative was literally working in Westminster and Winchendon on January 5, 2024 checking out the issue of crumbling foundations due to a mineral called pyrrhotite. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY
Zlotnik Housing Interview 1-5-24 We learned about this particular issue which is affecting homeowners, sometimes decades after a house was built. In our interview, we also discussed the housing bill pending before the State Legislature. Representative Zlotnik described various projects going on in the District right now. He also discussed ways in which those having housing crises can get help by contacting his office which is on the 2nd floor of Gardner City Hall. We discussed the unique housing issues faced by the homeless and various solutions implemented elsewhere and which might be a local option if all the logistics could be worked out. And this major point: If you’re having a housing issue, contact his office and they’ll point you toward some help.
Housing Resources
Massachusetts Residents Against Crumbling Foundations, Website CLICK HERE —- Jonathan Zlotnik: State web page and contact information, CLICK HERE —- Gardner Emergency Housing Mission, website, CLICK HERE —- Gardner Community Action Committee, Website, CLICK HERE —- Gardner Housing Authority, website, CLICK HERE. City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE
- 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.
- Baby 2024 (1/4/2024)
Gardner MA Hospital Identifies First Baby of the Year
In a Press Release, Heywood Hospital stated, “An Athol couple celebrated the start of the New Year by welcoming a healthy and happy baby girl to the world, at Heywood Hospital’s LaChance Maternity Center.
Katelyn and Tim Nault were the first parents to have a child in the local area at precisely 7:47 pm on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.At birth, Eva Lynn was delivered weighing 6 pounds, 4 ounces and was 18.5 inches long.
The family is doing well and Heywood Hospital’s LaChance Maternity Center wishes them a safe, healthy and happy New Year.”
- Airport 1-3-24 (1/4/2024)
How Things are Flying at the Gardner Municipal Airport
The Gardner Airport Commission met in an information-packed meeting on January 3, 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Gardner Airport Commission 1-3-24 The Gardner Airport Commission heard a Runway Update Report from a representative of Gale Associates Inc. who noted that the Gardner Airport has a non-standard runway for which the FAA may or may not require mitigation. The FAA also doesn’t like a certain fence which has a 5 foot retaining wall beyond it stating, “short of relocating the road, there’s really nothing we can do.” He also stated he wasn’t really worried about it.
There was a discussion about the Update of the Airport Master Plan. The commission approved a request to allow first 4 chapters of Master Plan to be forwarded to the FAA and put Chapter 4 on the website so public can view. There was a concern about an inaccurate aircraft count including a couple of aircraft which are in pieces.
Discussion revolved around the possibility of a restaurant at the airport in the form of a small Pilot’s Lounge. Discussions will be had with the Board of Health. Snow plows are ready to go for a possible Sunday snowstorm.
Discussion concerned possible issues with the septic system “field has been compromised in a big way.” It may have been destroyed by a loader going back and forth. One member accused contractor of possibly taking some loam. Other members suggested more research. The contractor will be contacted for insurance information so issue can be addressed. A Member stated “should be the responsibility of the contractor of whoever they hire to fix the damn thing.”
- Snow Kidding (1/4/2024)
First Snow of Year May Appear Saturday into Sunday
All of the forecast sources at the Gardner Magazine Weather Center show the strong possibility of snow from late Saturday into Sunday. Up to 8 inches of snow is possible. However, we caution our readers as the forecast for the first accumulating snow of the season is often inaccurate one way or the other. So expect less or more, plan for Winter Driving Safety – see article with suggestions, and drive carefully if you must be on the road.
- Seaman – Vela (1/3/2024)
For more information about Seaman Paper, located at 35 Wilkins Road in Gardner, visit their website, CLICK HERE. Interesting fact: Seaman Paper and WGAW both started operations in 1946.
Seaman Paper recognized for environmentally sustainable bag
According to the company, “Seaman Paper, a leading global manufacturer of lightweight specialty paper and packaging solutions, has been honored with the “Innovation in Sustainability Award” by the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) as part of its 2023 Better Practices, Better Planet Sustainability Awards program.
The award recognizes Seaman Paper’s innovative Vela™ bags, a paper alternative to replace single-use plastic poly bags. Vela™ bags are transparent paper transport bags that are FSC® certified, weather-resistant, durable enough to withstand supply chain demands, and certified recyclable.”
Listen to a statement from Seaman Paper CEO Ken Winterhalter. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
“We are thrilled to receive this recognition from the AF&PA, it’s a true testament to our deep-rooted history in innovation, our commitment to sustainability, and brings our motto ‘people, paper, packaging, for a sustainable world’ to life.” said Seaman Paper CEO, Ken Winterhalter. View video
- Calvin is… (1/3/2024)
For complete results of all the races in the 2023 Gardner Municipal Election, CLICK HERE.
Calvin Brooks to be Gardner Councilor at Large After All – after Kamuda resigns
Following the sudden resignation of Carolyn Kamuda for “personal reasons”, Calvin Brooks will become a Councilor-at-Large because he had the next highest vote total. Brooks has 26 years experience in municipal finance and retired in June 2023 as City Auditor of Fitchburg. It is expected he will be sworn in and be seen at the next City Council meeting.
Calvin Brooks lost by only 13 votes in the official count, garnering 1683 votes to Kamuda’s 1696. Now, he will serve for the next two years.
At Large Councilor Official Vote Total Elizabeth Kazinskas 2094 George Tyros 1818 Judy Mack 1807 Ronald Cormier 1742 Craig Cormier 1722 Carolyn Kamuda 1696 Calvin Brooks 1683
- School 1-2-24 (1/3/2024)
Jennifer Pelavin Gets Vice Chair Nod Again
Jennifer Pelavin once again was selected by the other School Committee members to serve as Vice-Chair at the meeting of January 2, 2024. Mayor Nicholson serves as the Chair of the Committee per the City Charter. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
School Committee 1-2-24 John Lafreniere was elected Finance Officer, Robert Swartz and Jennifer Pelavin were elected alternate finance officers and Rachael Cormier was elected Secretary.
- Driver Drive (1/3/2024)
City of Gardner MA Having Storm Contractor Drive
It’s a Plow Driver Driver Drive! Hoping to fill the needed roster before a possible Big Storm of 2024 arrives, the City of Gardner has raised its hourly rate for Snow Removal and Ice Control Contractors to a minimum of $95 per hour. This is about 50% more than last year! Forms, rate sheets, and additional information is available on request from the City Purchasing Agent Joshua Cormier via email at jcormier@gardner-ma.gov or DPW Director Dane Arnold via email at darnold@gardner-ma.gov.
Don’t have a plow truck yourself but can drive one? There’s good news. The City of Gardner is actually looking for full time truck drivers who do plowing and sanding highways as part of their duties. Here’s a link to more information, CLICK HERE.
When will the first plowable snow of 2024 be? If you know please email News@GardnerMagazine.com
- Gavel Retained (1/3/2024)
Kazinskas Keeps the Gavel
Elizabeth Kazinskas was selected City Council President on a 9 to 0 vote of the Gardner MA City Council on January 2, 2024. Newly elected Councilor Carolyn Kamuda was absent from the meeting. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY
City Council 1-2-24 Update: January 3, 2024: Carolyn Kamuda resigned as City Councilor for personal reasons. Calvin Brooks to take the seat.
- Respiratory Rise (1/3/2024)
Rise in Respiratory Cases Across Massachusetts Forces ER restrictions
There’s a rise in respiratory illness cases across the State of Massachusetts. Included is Covid, RSV, and the Flu. For example, the percentage of emergency department visits related to acute respiratory diseases was just over 8 percent in early July 2023 and up to about 17 percent just before Christmas. In Worcester County it was just under 15 percent. Very young patients seem to be the most susceptible with a rate of over 500 visits to the ER per 100,00 for those 5 and under, with the next highest category being those 80 and over with just under 400 visits per 100,000 people. Here is the Massachusetts Respiratory Illness Dashboard, CLICK HERE
Locally, Heywood Hospital has placed restrictions on visitation in the Emergency Room due to the increase posting, “restricted to parents of pediatric patients (one parent at a time) and caregivers for adult populations (one caregiver) as well as those on comfort measures only. Facemasks are strongly recommended.”
For those needing Covid Test kits for future use, you can obtain them free. Here is the link to Covid.gov
- Renaissance Cars (1/2/2024)
Fictional Story of Cars Introduced 500 Years Ago – Renaissance Cars of the 1500’s
What would have happened if people of the 1500’s became car dealers? That is the ridiculous premise of this fictional story. Here’s what happened. Human space aliens piloted a Spaceship which looked appealing to the people of the 1500s. The mission was to introduce the automobile to the people of the time. The results in our fictional account were absolutely hilarious, as shown by the illustrations.
People love their cars in any time period, fictional or not.
We have a complete Illustration Gallery of various automobiles in our fictional story.
Gallery shows the concept meetings and even an illustration of the fictional best salesman of the year.
- Mental Health (1/2/2024)
Heywood Hospital to Re-open Inpatient Mental Health Unit
Heywood Hospital of Gardner MA has received approval from the Department of Mental Health to reopen 6 beds of the proposed 12 bed adult Mental Health Unit on January 11, 2024. Plan is to add additional beds at a future date. Unit has been closed since October of 2021 due to lack of qualified personnel.
The Mental Health Unit at Heywood will operate 24/7 and will feature several upgrades including a sensory room, various other resources, enhanced security, and additional staff training.
A Partial Hospital Program already serves about 40 adult patients on a daily basis with outpatient psychiatric and counseling services.
View the complete Press Release here.
For more about Heywood Healthcare including information about available services and also various job openings, visit the Heywood.org website, CLICK HERE
- January Jobs (1/2/2024)
The City of Gardner is looking to fill the following positions at DPW: Mechanic, Laborer, and Truck Driver. Contractors to plow snow and control ice are sought at a rate of $95 per hour. Contact Jacob Cormier at jcormier@gardner-ma.gov or Dane Arnold at darnold@gardner-ma.gov for details.
One easy search to look up available jobs is Indeed.com. Here are the jobs within 10 miles of Gardner MA.
Relatively Low Unemployment Rate the Norm in Greater Gardner
The City of Gardner has a current unemployment rate of around 3.2%. Ashburnham is even lower at about 2.4%, Templeton 2.9%, Winchendon 2.6%, Hubbardston 2.2%, Westminster 2.5%. Complete stats on all towns from the state, look here.
So who is hiring right now in Gardner? Here are some of the job openings:
Aldi is hiring part-time store cashiers and stockers at a starting rate of $19.50 per hour.
Manny’s Appliance is hiring delivery drivers for $21 to $25 per hour
GAAMHA, Inc. is looking for a counselor at a pay rate just over $50k
EZ Steam Club wants a spa attendant and is paying up to $18 per hour
Community Health Connections is looking for a part-time front desk receptionist to work weekdays from 4pm to 8:30pm
Seaman Paper is looking for a Customer Service Representative at $24 per hour
Retail staff is wanted by Gamestop and Tractor Supply.
Gardner Elementary School is looking for a reading tutor.
- Meetings – Hearings (1/2/2024)
Organizational Meetings and Public Hearings Start off New Year in Gardner MA
The Gardner City Council meeting of January 2, 2024 begins with the election of the City Council President. Complete Agenda, CLICK HERE. New Councilor at large Carolyn Kamuda will be at her first meeting as will new Ward 1 Councilor David Thibault-Munoz
The Gardner School Committee meeting of January 2, 2024 begins with reorganization of officers including Vice Chair, Finance Officer, Alternate Finance Officers, and Secretary. Complete Agenda, CLICK HERE. Note that the election of a Chair is not needed as the Mayor of Gardner is the Chairman of the School Committee per the City Charter.
The City of Gardner Planning Board will hold a Public Informational Meeting and Public Hearing on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at 6:30pm at the Hubbard Conference Room in the Second Floor of the City Hall Annex at 115 Pleasant Street, Gardner to consider the Definitive Site Plan etc. regarding Chipotle Mexican Grill for a restaurant drive-through to be located at Timpany Plaza. Meeting notice, CLICK HERE.
A joint public hearing has been scheduled with the City Council and Planning Board on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 6:45pm regarding the two zoning articles regarding adding Sports Betting to the Table of Uses and Increasing the quota of marijuana establishments. Information packet and agenda, CLICK HERE. The Mayor’s original letter on the matters was dated almost 10 months ago: March 15, 2023 .
A Joint Convention of the City Council and Gardner School Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 6:25pm to appoint a Gardner resident to serve on the Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School District Committee for four years. Meeting Notice, CLICK HERE.
Various elected officials were scheduled to be sworn in on New Year’s Day. The Inauguration Ceremony will be held at Perry Auditorium on Thursday January 4, 2024 beginning at 6:30pm. Event open to public.
- Dog Licenses 2024 (1/1/2024)
Community Name links to official dog license page when available. If your community does not have current information available online, call the town office for latest info.
Dog License Information for Greater Gardner MA Communities
Once again it is Dog License time in area communities. In Gardner, those over 70 do not have to pay a fee, but still need to verify rabies vaccination and obtain the license.
Communities require an updated rabies certificate from the dog owner. License fees vary whether dog is spayed or neutered or not. Late fees vary considerably by City or town. Click on the Community name below for link to official dog license page and/or forms.
Ashburnham – due by May 31st – fine of $50 if not licensed by June 30, 2024 —- Ashby – due January 1st —- Athol – due by February 28th – late fee after that is an additional $15 —- Barre – new license period starts April 1st – late fee on or after June 1st is $20 per dog —-Gardner – by March 31st – Late fee of $10 April 1st or later —- Hardwick did not have a 2024 page up on 1-2-24– Based on last year: from 2/1/24 to 3/31/24 unspecified late fee after April 1st —- Hubbardston – license period runs from January 1 to March 31. $25 late fee after May 1st —- New Salem – Date not specified —- Oakham – licenses run April 1 to March 31 – late fee is $25 after June 1st —-Orange – by March 31 – late fee of $50 April 1st or later —- Petersham – by January 1st —- Phillipston – by March 31st, late fee of $5 after April1st, fine of $25 after May1st —- Princeton – by last business day of April. Late fee of $25 after April 30th —- Royalston – Date not specified —- Rutland – available starting January 8th, due by March 31st —- Templeton – by March 31st, late fee is $25 —- Warwick – no 2024 page specified, suggest a site search or call town office —- Westminster – by April 15th , late fee of $15 after April 15 —- Winchendon – by March 31st, $50 late fee after March 31st.
- First Lap (1/1/2024)
Gardner MA Relay for Life With First Lap 2024
The Gardner Relay for Life has invited runners to take a first lap at 12 noon on Saturday January 6, 2024 at the Mount Wachusett Community College track.
According to a posting, “RelayFirstLap is meant to be a day to kick-start your annual participation in Relay for Life!…Since its inception, RelayFirstLap has grown to engage Relayers from around the world and is a global day of celebration & building excitement for the new year…”
The annual 2024 Gardner Relay for Life is scheduled for June 7-8, 2024 at 6pm at Mount Wachusett Community College. This year’s fundraising goal is $185,000. For more information, please visit the website, CLICK HERE.
Add your event to our 2024 events page. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com
- Review 2023 (12/31/2023)
Gardner Magazine Releases – Year in Review 2023
The 36 minute program covers what happened in Gardner during 2023. We cover it all. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Year in Review – 2023 We cover Public Safety, Politics, Government, Education, Health, Downtown, City projects, Finances, the Environment, Events, Parks and Recreation, People Topics, Technology, Weather, Transportation Arts and Music, and more.
- Light – Gardner (12/31/2023)
The Light is On in Gardner. And the Future is Bright! Listen to the production on any device. CLICK PLAY.
The Light Is On – Gardner MA Repeating: The Light is On in Gardner MA and the Future is Bright
To close out the year, we thought this production from May was worth repeating. “The Light is On in Gardner” features over a dozen different musical artists and an uplifting narrative. Listen on any device to this CD quality production. CLICK PLAY.
The Light is On – Gardner MA The City of Gardner is a shining beacon of promise in Central Massachusetts and this production literally in vocals of light showcases the Chair City’s positive values. More is coming to the Great Chair City of Gardner. From parks and recreation, to arts and music. Increased health care. Businesses you want. Industries providing jobs.
Spread the word. Gardner is in the light. And the future is bright. So much is within reach. So much is within sight. Gardner celebrated its 100th year as a City. It is completing its 101st on December 31, 2023. By the time Gardner celebrates its 250th celebration of its incorporation in 1785 in the year 2035, Gardner is expected to be an even brighter place, a shining beacon for the rest of the State and the Nation.
- Snow Elusive (12/31/2023)
Snow Elusive so Far this Season
Will there be snow this winter in the Greater Gardner area? The long-term forecast shows a little ice mixing with rain on January 9th with some rain on the 10th. A forecast of snow at times on Monday, January 15th with snow mixing with rain, sleet, and freezing rain on the 16th. Rain on January 22nd, periods of snow, sleet and freezing rain on the 23rd. In February: Snow mixing with rain, sleet, and freezing rain on the 9th. This info is from Accuweather. Will any of these predictions so far out be accurate? Will we get a big snowstorm? Time will tell.
Gardner Magazine features the general weather forecast and temperatures at the top of its pages. But, there’s something even better. The Greater Gardner Weather Center with a number of forecast sources, maps, and airport conditions. CLICK HERE.
- Final Event (12/31/2023)
Centennial Ball Culminates Year-Long Celebration in Gardner MA
The City of Gardner achieved the milestone of 100 years as a City on January 1, 2023 and Centennial Events were held throughout 2023. The final event was the Centennial Ball held at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall. Tickets were $30 per person.
Patty Bergstrom posted some vibrant photos and stated, “Had a ball at City of Gardner Centennial Celebration! It was a fabulous night in the City that I love. Perry Auditorium looked magical. The food by The Finicky Fork Catering Company was delicious and artistically presented. The centerpieces by Lofty balloon and event decor were so fun. The selfie booth was a big hit. The music by the DJ and the Squires of Soul Jazz Sextet was fun to sing along and dance to. The Moon Hill Brewing and Gardner Ale House offered signature drinks. And thank you to Anthony’s Liquor Mart for providing the champagne toast. Tonight was the finale of a year long celebration of Gardner’s 100th birthday and it was quite a party!”
The City of Gardner is set to celebrate its 250th anniversary of incorporation in 2035.
- 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.
- Free College (12/28/2023)
Greater Gardner MA Residents 25+ Can Get Free College Degree
MassReconnect is a Massachusetts program which funds FREE community college for adults 25 and older who don’t already have a college degree. You need to enroll in at least 6 credits per semester, be a Massachusetts resident, and complete the FAFSA form. For more details visit the Mount Wachusett Community College website page, CLICK HERE.
According to the State of Massachusetts, “Almost two million Massachusetts residents are over the age of 25 and do not have a college degree. There is now a path forward. MassReconnect is a new program that can help you earn a degree or certificate for free and put you one step closer to your dream career. MassReconnect, led by the Department of Higher Education in partnership with Massachusetts’ public community colleges, will make higher education more affordable and accessible to students across the Commonwealth. If you are 25 or older, MassReconnect will pay for all your tuition and fees and will provide you with an allowance to cover your books and supplies.” For more information from the State of MA, CLICK HERE.
FREE Early College Gets Support of $1.3 million in State Grants
The Fiscal Year 2024 Early College Support Grant of $400k was announced by State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. It supports collaboration between Mount Wachusett Community College and Fitchburg State University with the following schools: Athol High School, Fitchburg High School, Gardner Academy for Learning & Technology, Gardner High School, Leominster High School, Narragansett Regional High School and the Sizer School. In a related grant, additionally, Mount Wachusett College also received $791,694 that will help to fund projects that advance decarbonization efforts, address deferred maintenance, and increase the overall climate resilience of the campus. In a Press Release from Zlotnik, various local officials expressed gratitude and a statement from Gardner Superintendent of Schools Mark Pellegrino provides some details on the number of, and how students are impacted. PRESS RELEASE, CLICK HERE. We have reached out to Representative Zlotnik’s office with additional questions.
- First Day (12/28/2023)
First Day Hikes Include Dunn State Park in Gardner MA
First Day Hikes will take place in State Parks across the State of Massachusetts on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2024. The 1.5 mile hike at Dunn State Park at 289 Pearl Street in Gardner will start with registration at the Pond House at 9am, hike at 10am, and hot chocolate served after the hike. Complete flyer of all locations, CLICK HERE.
- Sludge Resolution (12/27/2023)
Gardner Mayor Nicholson covers the Sludge Landfill issue – What’s Going Interview. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Interview with Mayor NIcholson As City of Gardner Works with Consultants, Opponent to Sludge Landfill Expansion Speaks Up
Gardner Magazine received a Press Release from Ivan Ussach of the Millers River Watershed Council in which he criticizes the calculations of the City of Gardner, stating that the “miscalculations favor the sludge landfill expansion at the expense of more environmentally friendly opportunities.” Ussach states that the City’s faulty financial analyses are contained in a May 23, 2023 letter from DPW Director Dane Arnold to Mayor Michael Nicholson. View complete MRWC Press Release, CLICK HERE.
The City of Gardner estimates its disposal costs with Fitchburg to be over $1million annually if it were to go that route with Fitchburg or another facility – Ussach says calculations show a max of $435,000. Publisher’s Note: In truth, both are potentially wrong and here’s why: A true estimate can’t yet be made because Fitchburg doesn’t even know what to charge because negotiations with the company have yet to be finalized. Therefore an estimate on the higher side was simply being fiscally cautious and fiscal responsibility is something for which Gardner has received praise..
Ussach has stated that one solution is for the City of Gardner to become a customer of the City of Fitchburg which may construct a facility to treat sludge. A Fitchburg City Council meeting of December 19, 2023 (complete video link here) included a presentation and discussion on the subject in great detail. We have included the AUDIO of the meeting so you hear the facts for yourself. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Fitchburg City Council December 2023 Fitchburg began looking at the issue over a decade ago and the presentation within the meeting details those timelines. It is at the stage now where a company has been selected and approval of the Fitchburg Mayor and City Council is needed for the project to move forward. Facility cost is projected at $200 million. Construction would be projected to begin in late 2024 with completion in 2026. Even if in favor of contracting with Fitchburg, Gardner would need to determine if it may need an earlier solution. Whether or not to enter in to an agreement with Fitchburg would depend on the cost which currently is unknown, as Fitchburg itself is negotiating with the company regarding costs and revenue share of municipal agreements with other potential communities such as Gardner. In other words, Gardner can’t say yes or no yet to the idea because it doesn’t have all the facts yet.
Gardner Magazine asked Gardner Mayor Nicholson about the issue in a recent What’s Going on interview. CLICK HERE. In a nutshell, the Mayor indicated that all possibilities are being explored with the consultants hired by the City and that additional public input would be received as part of the ongoing review.
- 102nd Year (12/27/2023)
2024 – Moving On from a Year of Celebration in Gardner MA
Gardner was first settled in 1764, incorporated as a town in 1785, and became a City in 1923. January 1, 2023 marked Gardner’s 100th anniversary as a City and it was celebrated all year. During Gardner’s 101st year as a City in 2023, Gardner drew even more attention for its successes, the lesson to others you could call “Gardner 101”. Year 102 as a City begins January 1, 2024. Gardner’s 250 will be in 2035.
Here’s our page of Gardner MA Top 40 Hit Projects.
- Affordable Homes (12/26/2023)
Affordable Homes Act Before MA Legislature will Pack a Punch Upon Enactment
Two months ago, MA Governor Healey put the $4 billion Affordable Homes Act in front of the Massachusetts Legislature. Upon passage, the funding will impact housing across the state. Complete fact sheet on pdf, CLICK HERE.
Impactful policies included in the bill for example are those permitting accessory dwelling units as-of-right which are less than 900 square feet to be built in single-family zoning districts in all communities including the prohibition of owner occupancy requirements as well as parking mandates. Also creates an Extremely Low-Income Housing Commission to expand supply of affordable housing for those households earning less than 30 percent of the area median income. This would permit the so-called “Tiny Houses” to help the homeless.
Biggest ticket items in the bill include $1.6 Billion for the repair, rehab, and modernization of over 43,000 public housing units and $800 million for affordable housing for households not more than 110% of area median income.
Other funding includes: $425 million for Housing Stabilization —- $275 million for innovative housing solutions —- $175 million for municipal infrastructure projects to encourage denser housing development — $100 million for mixed-income housing fund —- $100 million to crate a permanent capital resource for an existing MassHousing program recently supported by the American Rescue Plan Act —- $70 million for community-based housing re Facilities Consolidation Fund —- $60 million for MA Rehabilitation Commission Home Modification Program —- $55 million to support appropriate housing for people with disabilities —- $50 million for momentum fund to accelerate development of mixed-income multifamily housing —- $50 million for distressed properties —- $50 million for early education facilities —- $35 million in payments to municipalities getting Housing Choice designation —- $30 million for State Surplus property distribution —- $25 million to make grants for planning and zoning initiatives — $20 million for municipalities who adopt smart growth housing districts
- Four Season (12/26/2023)
Four Season Chinese Cuisine Opens in Gardner MA
Another shuttered building has new life as Four Season Chinese Cuisine Opens in Gardner MA. The restaurant is located at 19 Union Square in Gardner. The restaurant is open every day of the week except for Tuesday. Menu and website
- Rear Before (12/26/2023)
Before the Project Starts – the view of Rear Main Street
Rear Main Street in Gardner will look very differently some months from now after the project begins. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way. For now, here’s the before pictures.
Planned is a multi-story residential apartment building, dozens of parking spaces, a food truck lot, and a music venue.
- Heywood Busy (12/26/2023)
Heywood Hospital in Gardner MA with a Busy Lot
On the day after Christmas, Heywood Hospital showed signs of a brisk business. Gardner Magazine observed parking lots throughout the City of Gardner. At the time of the photographs on December 26, 2023, the parking lots at Heywood Hospital were about the busiest of all. Services were being accessed. Patients were being assisted with their needs. No one would know that Heywood Healthcare was in the midst of any financial uncertainty. In fact, the evidence shows clearly that the business of Heywood is itself – healthy.
While challenges remain and certain things are up in the air, 2024 is poised to be a positive year for Heywood Healthcare and Gardner’s Heywood Hospital which has served the Chair City since 1907.
- Sharing Pot (12/26/2023)
Two Stores will Soon Share the Pot in Gardner MA
The sign is up at the Joint Operations location in the plaza at Timpany Crossroads. At some point soon, the business will open and cannabis sales will begin.
Currently, Gardner has one operating cannabis establishment at Pearson Boulevard known as Sanctuary.
A proposed zoning change before the Gardner City Council would change the quota on Marijuana establishments, allowing for up to 4 in the City. It has been on the radar for the better part of a year, originally proposed by Gardner Mayor Nicholson, then by 5 City Councilors, and then by Councilor Heath who proposed, withdrew, and re-proposed the change. A joint public hearing with the Planning Board will be held soon where public input will be solicited.
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