Gardner MA

Gardner MA Local News and Community Information

Visit the Gardner MA Complete History page with infographics, Deep Dive, Narratives, Debate, and so much more….CLICK HERE — Complete Gardner Telephone Guide to Various Departments

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• Hazardous Waste 2026

  

  Saturday June 13, 2026 and Saturday November 7, 2026, the City of Gardner MA will hold Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days at the Gardner Landfill.

  Printable version of above, CLICK HERE.

  Printable Version in portrait mode of the infographic below, CLICK HERE.

  City of Gardner to hold 2 Hazardous Waste Days in 2026

  On both Saturday June 13, 2026 and Saturday November 7, 2026, the City of Gardner MA will hold Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days at the Gardner Landfill. These events allow for the safe disposal of toxic items such as automotive fluids, pesticides, and various batteries, though participants must present identification to prove residency. While registration is not necessary, visitors must follow specific safety protocols, such as keeping materials in original containers and adhering to a fifty-gallon maximum limit per vehicle. Certain items like explosives, medical waste, and latex products are strictly prohibited from the site. Additionally, the November session will uniquely offer shredding services alongside the standard waste drop-off. Personnel on-site maintain the authority to refuse any materials that do not meet the specified safety or eligibility criteria. View Press Release, CLICK HERE.

  Listen to a “Deep Dive” podcast about these events from the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Listen to a “Debate” on the subject with Max and Maxine Rogers on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  

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• Lazy Lawn Experiment

  

  The “Before and After” of the Lazy Lawn Experiment. I love how my lawn and vine looks in the right corner picture.

  Publisher’s Lazy Lawn Experiment Concluded – The Inside Scoop

  I wrote an article last month about the very real concerns regarding the Bee population and that of all “pollinators” in the State of Massachusetts. Environmentalists made a suggestion that perhaps some people could have a “lazy lawn”, in other words, don’t mow it, let the dandelions and other vegetation grow, including the grass. It gives the bees more to pollinate they said. So, I tried it. And today, June 4, 2026, my lawn was mowed for the first time this year. For the original “To Bee or Not to Bee” article, CLICK HERE.

  The benefits: I saw many bees during the past couple months. Interestingly, I told each one of them who came close to me that I loved them and please don’t bite me. This happened not only when I was walking around, but also on my front porch. Surprisingly, I didn’t get one bee sting, but had the pleasure of seeing more bees than I’ve seen in years. Somehow, it seems, Nature knew what I was doing and the bees appeared to be curious approaching me, “who is this complete nut?” they appeared to say. Another side benefit: when you let a lawn grown long, it actually gets to the point where it seeds itself and you actually get a much richer lawn in the bargain. Oh well, more to mow.

  The pitfalls: The looks from neighbors stung and the feeling of being embarassed wasn’t fun. After all, my yard looked like I had just let it go. However, I did have a secret plan which some couldn’t see given the tall grass hiding my adventures. I put in a new redneck driveway including genuine ¾ granite stone, enhanced my solar lighting and otherwise cleaned up the place. The local birds observed the stone granite driveway and came to observe, often resting on my fence. I heard them chirping among themselves, but I couldn’t understand “bird” so I had no idea what they were saying. I’m pretty sure they weren’t talking politics.

  Would I do it again? Well, probably not. I’ve lined up a lawn mowing guy who did a great job with my forest of grass at a reasonable price.(and he only knew about my experiment after the lawn had been mowed) The before pictures show tall grass. The after pictures are a welcome sight. Thanks to Grady Tobin of Tobin Landscaping who serves the North Central MA area. If you need a great landscaper, call Grady at (978) 730-2039. He’ll be coming by regularly to mow a normal lawn from now on.

  Be kind to the bees. We need them. They provide a needed service to our environment and will ultimately save our planet if we let them BEE.

  Werner Poegel, Publisher.

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• Airport Commission 6-3-26

  

  More information on the Gardner Airport Commission meeting of June 3, 2026 in the infographic below regarding the Gardner Municipal Airport challenges.

  Navigation Easements, Vegetation Management and Budgetary Constraints Focus of Airport Commission

  The Gardner Airport Commission met on June 3, 2026 and discussed various issues. The primary challenge involves acquiring easements on land protected by Massachusetts Article 97, which mandates a “no net loss” policy for conservation land. To avoid indefinite delays, the Commission is moving toward a phased approach, prioritizing tree clearing for the Runway 18 approach while deferring the more complex Runway 36 parcels.

  Financially, the airport is operating on a “flat” budget that failed to meet a $125,000 request for deferred maintenance. This lack of funding poses a long-term risk to airport viability and potential federal grant repayment obligations. Despite these challenges, the Commission is pursuing a Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) and exploring new revenue opportunities, such as a trial agreement with the Boston RC Jet Club.

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

  

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• Gardner Senior Center – June 2026

  

  Gardner Senior Center has an active June 2026 of Programs and Services.

  The Gardner MA Senior Center is an active place fulfilling its mission of “Connection and Purpose” The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss June 2026. Listen on any device., CLICK PLAY.

  View the entire June 2026 Newletter on PDF, CLICK HERE. —– To sign up for automatic email delivery of the monthly newsletter link, CLICK HERE.

  The Gardner Senior Center has a diverse monthly schedule featuring physical fitness classes, social games, creative workshops, a patriotic sing-along concert, the AARP annual meeting with guest speakers, and essential community services.

  Some Key Upcoming Events:(View Newsletter for complete list)

  June 10, 2026 1:30pm – Golden Age Club Ice Cream Social

  June 16, 2026 11:30am – Vet to Vet Cafe offering conversation and lunch for veterans

  June 11, 2026 9:30am – Talk with a Doc/Curse with a Nurse – health conversation and refreshments in a non-clinical supportive environment.

  June 24, 2026: 12:30pm – Greater Gardner Chapter 3237 AARP annual meeting featuring MA AARP Director Jennifer Benson – restricted to AARP members, requires pre-registration and a $20 fee which covers a full meal.

  June 25, 2026 1:30pm – Talk with a Doc/Curse with a Nurse – health conversation and refreshments in a non-clinical supportive environment.

  July 1, 2026 at 1:30pm – Patriotic and Summer Sing-A-Long . Accompanied by the Gardner Area Strummers and Friends

  July 11, 2026 from 9am to noon – Shredding and Electronic Recycling Event. in the Senior Center Parking Lot

  July 22, 2026 Summer BBQ at Templeton Fish & Gun Club (supported by the Gardner Cultural Council and local sponsors)

  

  

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• D-Day 6-6-26

  

  D-Day: 82nd Anniversary – COMPLETE COVERAGE

  June 6, 2026 represents the 82nd Anniversary of D-Day. the Invasion of Normandy, codenamed Operation Overlord. Gardner Magazine has a complete page on D-Day featuring a video, podcasts, and a commentary with additional infographics and color photos. Here is the complete D-Day page, CLICK HERE.

  This Gardner Magazine video provides a great chronicle of D-Day.

  The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss D-Day. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Max and Maxine Rogers debate D-Day. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Shattered Ice – MWCC

  

  Mount Wachusett Community College to Host Screening of Shattered Ice to Raise Awareness of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, All Proceeds Benefit LUK, Inc.

  From MWCC: Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC), in collaboration with the Reliant Foundation and TaraVista Behavioral Health Center, will host a special screening of the award-winning film Shattered Ice followed by a conversation with special guests on Wednesday, June 17, at 6 p.m. at Theatre at the Mount in Gardner.

  The event aims to spark important conversations about mental health, suicide prevention, grief, and resilience among young people and their families. Shattered Ice tells the story of a small-town New England teenage hockey player struggling to navigate high school life after the suicide of his best friend. Through its powerful narrative, the film explores the profound impact of loss, the importance of seeking support, and the role communities can play in fostering hope and healing.

  Proceeds from all ticket sales will be donated to the LUK Crisis Center, supporting its mission to provide critical crisis intervention, mental health, and prevention services throughout Central Massachusetts. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and may be purchased online at mwcc.universitytickets.com.

  “We are grateful to partner with the Reliant Foundation and TaraVista Behavioral Health Center to bring this important film to our community,” said Lauren Clifford, Wellness Outreach Coordinator at Mount Wachusett Community College. “Shattered Ice addresses difficult but essential conversations surrounding mental health, loss, and suicide prevention. By sharing this story and supporting the LUK Crisis Center, we hope to reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking, and remind individuals and families that support is available. This event is an opportunity for our community to come together, learn, and promote hope and healing.”

  The screening is open to the public. Community members, educators, healthcare professionals, students, and families are encouraged to attend. Learn more about the film at officialshatteredicethemovie.com.

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• City Council 6-1-26

  

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

  Variety of Matters Focus of Gardner City Council Meeting

  
  The council approved several licensing applications for local businesses, including a bowling alley and multiple secondhand article dealers. Significant debate occurred regarding personnel ordinances, specifically the creation of a Chief of Staff position and adjustments to the youth center’s compensation schedule. Additionally, the Mayor and councilors addressed accessibility concerns due to a broken elevator at City Hall, outlining temporary accommodations for the public. The session concluded with celebratory remarks regarding local high school achievements, the completion of a new emergency operations kitchen, and the announcement of the upcoming summer budget schedule.

  The Council debated a measure to replace the current “Executive Aide” position in the Mayor’s office with a “Chief of Staff.”

  • Proposed Changes: The role includes a title change, expanded responsibilities, and a modest pay increase.
  • Fiscal Contingency: Councilor Heglin emphasized that support for this position is contingent upon identifying offsetting cuts within the Mayor’s budget to ensure the change produces overall savings.
  • Status: The question was postponed until the June 15 regular meeting to allow for further evaluation alongside the final budget.

  Upcoming Budget Schedule of the City Council

  • June 8: First special budget meeting.
  • June 15: Regular City Council meeting.
  • June 17: Deadline for Councilors to submit budget amendments to the Clerk’s office.
  • June 22: Second special budget meeting to discuss compiled amendments.
  • June 29: Reserved date for a potential budget veto override vote.

  Click on either infographic for a larger view: City Council 6-1-26 and Beyond the Gavel, 5 Surprising Lessons

  

  

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• Council on Aging 6-1-26

  

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson is Special Guest at Council on Aging Meeting

  
  At the Gardner Council on Aging meeting of June 1, 2026, officials addressed the fiscal year-end budget and several infrastructure developments. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  The treasury report details various funding sources, including a successful regional Lifeline program and a significant anonymous gift designated for senior benefits. Mayor Mike Nicholson provided an extensive update on the Waterford project, detailing upcoming plans for parking expansion, concrete repairs, and the relocation of Gardner Educational Television. The board also discussed efforts to increase community inclusivity, specifically through research into programming for LGBTQ+ seniors. Additionally, the meeting highlighted upcoming community events such as a recycling drive, concerts, and educational seminars aimed at reducing senior isolation.

  More Details in these infographics on the Council on Aging 6-1-26 Meeting. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.

  

  

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• Officer Death 6-1-26

  

  Correction Officer at NCCI, Gardner Passes Away on the Job

  According to the Department of Correction, Officer John Edwards passed away during his shift early on Sunday, May 31, 2026. The veteran officer suffered some sort of medical event which resulted in his death.

  Statement from the Massachusetts Department of Correction: It is with profound sadness that the Massachusetts Department of Correction announces the sudden line-of-duty death of Correction Officer John Edwards, a 28-year veteran of the Department assigned to North Central Correctional Institution in Gardner. This morning, Officer Edwards suffered a medical emergency at his post and passed away. Commissioner Shawn Jenkins issued the following statement in tribute to the fallen officer: “Today, we mourn the loss of Correction Officer John Edwards, who served the Department of Correction for nearly three decades with unwavering dedication to our public safety mission. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, and offer them our full support in the difficult days ahead. His service will never be forgotten.”

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• National Safety Month 2026

  

  Are you a local official, department head, have a group or organization and would like to share some safety tips or what you’re doing about safety? Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com or call our voicemail line at (978) 632-6324 and we’ll gladly and enthusiastically help you get the word out. To our first responders: Thank you for all you do to keep us safe.

  June is National Safety Month – Let’s Be Safer

  For 3 decades, organizations and individuals across the United States have joined the National Safety Council in observing National Safety Month. The 2026 Safety Topics are June 1-6: Moving Safety Forward, June 7-13: Roadway Safety, June 14-20: Holistic Worker Health, and June 21-30: Slips, Trips, and Falls. For FREE safety tools and resources for your organization, group, class, or household, visit NSC.org/nsm to get a campaign poster, weekly fact sheets and safety talks, weekly articles, weekly videos, and weekly research.

  The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss how the Human Brain Ignores Everyday Hazards along with some safety tips. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Here’s some local examples of safety initiatives: In the City of Gardner, the Gardner Fire Department has increased safety through its proactive education efforts directed at people of every age. The Gardner Police Department has a full-time Domestic Violence Advocate to increase safety in relationships and families. The Gardner PD also maintains a FREE disposal service in the lobby for old medications, so for example, kids can’t get access to opioids you are no longer using. Through various initiatives, the crime rate in Gardner has fallen by almost half in the last 5 years.

  

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  In the Community

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Around the Community of Gardner MA

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