Local News Gardner MA

Gardner MA Breaking News

• Development 2-18-25

  

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson announced at this meeting that he is insisting that future meetings of the Community Development Block Grant Steering Committee and meetings of the Gardner Redevelopment Authority be recorded to provide transparency to the public.

  Publisher’s Note: Highly recommend you listen to this meeting as Director Stevens provides detailed information and answers important questions. Director Stevens has been on the job for just 1 month.

  Director Jason Stevens Provides Detailed Report to Economic and Community Development Committee

  On February 18, 2025, the committee met for the first time and heard from Community Development and Planning Director Jason Stevens. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  According to Stevens, based on email exchanges he analyzed, previous Director Trevor Beauregard was not forthcoming with information he should have communicated to the Mayor and the City Council. While the Maki Park Project was not discussed in detail, errors in that project and an investigative report on it by Councilor George Tyros precipitated the desire for more Council oversight and the creation of the committee. Much of Stevens report was an explanation of issues with CDBG grants not handled properly by the Department and an issue regarding fill material at the Rear Main Street Project which will cost the City money to correct. Construction timelines will be delayed as a result. Stevens detailed his plans going forward.

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson added further information. Both Stevens and the Mayor responded to questions. Stevens explained how he has a handle on the various situations going forward and detailed plans on how he will make sure members of the department are trained appropriately so they know how to handle matters properly.

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• ZBA 2-18-25

  

  Lengthy ZBA Meeting Held on February 18, 2025

  The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals met on February 18, 2025 for a lengthy 3+hour meeting. 9 Cases in meeting packet, CLICK HERE. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Appointments 2-18-25

  

  Candidates for Reappointment Face Appreciative Group at Gardner Appointments Committee

  The Gardner City Council Appointments Committee met on February 18, 2025 and heard from and about the following candidates for reappointment: Assessor Christine Kumar, Police Chief Eric McAvene, Deputy Chief Nicholas Maroni, and Animal Control Officers Autumn Brown, Alana Meserve, Cheryl Slack, and Disability Commission candidate Anne Hurst. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  There was praise, accolades, compliments, and support for each of the candidates. Mayor Nicholson noted that Nicholas Maroni was one of a few who were accepted and excelled at the FBI Academy . Chief Eric McAvene’s leadership was praised. Assessor Christine Kumar got so much praise she was all smiles. Similarly the animal control officers were highly recommended for reappointment.

  Mayor Nicholson stated, “Proudest Mayor of the 48 in the Commonwealth” All candidates were recommended by the Appointments Committee and were confirmed at the City Council meeting of 2-18-25 Article, CLICK HERE.

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• Throne of Shame

  

  Musical Editorial – “Throne of Shame” Released by Gardner Magazine

  With so much talk about the proposed Sludge Landfill Expansion, we’re releasing a musical editorial. The subject is the “Throne of Shame”. We all sit there and do our business with little thought of the consequences. As the song says, “Just send it away with the push of a lever, Thinking it’s gone, but it’s here forever.” No matter what the waste, we need to think of the consequences to the future and the wellbeing of our children and grandchildren.

  Listen to the quirky, nutty, but hopefully thought-provoking song on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Council 2-18-25

  

  Listen to the entire City Council meeting of February 18, 2025 on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  

  Complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  City Council Meeting of Tuesday, February 18th to Have Impact for Years and Decades

  The City Council waited about 10 minutes and then voted Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas to fill in for Council President George Tyros who was absent. Councilor Tassone attended via telephone. Shown in the second row of the graphic are 3 individuals who were confirmed and then sworn in for 3 year appointments: Assessor Christine Kumar, Police Chief Eric McAvene, and Deputy Chief Nicholas Maroni. Other appointments were also confirmed.

  The Council voted to have new Director of Community Development and Planning Jason Stevens to brief the council with a 1 month update whereupon Jason Stevens said the following: Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Stevens Bombshell Report

  Stevens who has been in the role for about 3 weeks went over and explained various problems which he is in the process of discovering, reviewing, and fixing. Good news “First, all money we have received from CDBG has been properly allocated and spent. No money is unaccounted for.” Stevens was highly critical of the previous director even stating that the Mayor and the Council did not get accurate reports. Stevens went over some errors previously made with respect to the Rear Main Street Project. Stevens stated, “I’m fully committed to getting things right and making sure the department runs correctly and effectively. Second, I’m willing to make tough calls for my department to make that that happens...”

  The $8 Million Project – After considerable debate, the City Council approved the request from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson to reappropriate just over $8.1 million left over from the Gardner Elementary School project to go towards other 30 year projects. SEE COMPLETE LIST, CLICK HERE. The vote to approve was 9 to 1 which met the 2/3 vote threshold for approval.

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• Leominster Racing

  

  Horse Racing Proposal Back – This Time in Leominster

  Baystate Racing LLC is proposing a Horse Racing Track at the former landfill on Mechanic Street in Leominster. According to Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella, entry to the facility would be made via the interstate highway and not via Mechanic Street. A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at 6pm at Frances Drake Elementary School, 95 Viscoloid Avenue “to discuss a proposed project at the former landfill on Mechanic Street. The developer will present their project and provide an opportunity for questions and solicit feedback from the public. Please attend to have your voice heard.” According to Mazzarella, representatives of BayState Racing LLC have spoken to him and separately with at least some members of the Leominster City Council.

  Here is an AUDIO clip from a February 14, 2025 podcast of Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella in which he offers some additional details on the project.

  Gardner Magazine has reached out to Baystate Racing LLC for comment. As of February 17, 2025 the BayState Racing LLC website was blank, CLICK HERE

  Information on the landfill from the City of Leominster

  The City of Leominster operated a Landfill at the end of Mechanic Street to the east of the Route 2 Connector until 1982. In 1985 the landfill was covered with impervious materials (capped) to prevent rain and surface water from passing through the buried waste and contaminating groundwater. In 2000 a landfill gas collection and disposal system was installed to prevent landfill gases from migrating through the soil to abutting properties. The gas collection system provides a vacuum to remove gases through wells that are connected to a manifold. The manifold passes beneath the Route 2 Connector and draws the gases to a gas burning flare system which is located to the north of the Leominster Sewage Treatment Plant. All of the wells in the landfill are periodically tested and adjusted to provide optimum performance of the flare. Environmental consultants provide quarterly testing of each well, surface air quality and groundwater sampling for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for their continual review. Copies of these reports are kept in the Health Department archives.

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• Plow Guy

  

  A Salute to DPW Men and Women who work as “Plow Guy”

  The Plow Guy clears paths one flake at a time and we all rely on our local DPW men and women to keep our roads clear from snow so we can get around. The Jazzy Song is called “Plow Guy” and it’s a thank you to those who keep the paths clear. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY

  “…Working round the clock, part of a special flock, so much dedication, on snow-filled occasions…”

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• Council 2-18-25

  

  View complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  Publisher’s Note: It’s all about the MONEY FLOW – Keeping the Health Insurance Account in the black – Sensibly Funding Badly Needed Projects – Going after millions in available grant funding. – Gardner is doing it.

  Money Flow of Progress – City Council Meets on Tuesday, February 18, 2025

  The City Council will take up matters from the Finance Committee including the City’s Health Insurance Payments – Trust Fund and the contract with Keller Partners for grant writing and lobbying services. More re Keller below. However, the big ticket item is the proposed order to reappropriate $8,161,000.000 of unexpected bond proceeds to go to other capital projects having a documented life of 30 years or more. – The Finance Committee voted to recommend full approval of the Mayor’s $8 million project plan. List of items, CLICK HERE for graphic.

  Other matters include appointment confirmations and a proposal and information from the Economic and Community Development Committee.

  Types of Funding Keller Partners Persues

  In a communication to the City in November 2024, Keller Partners outlined highlights of its focus on the City’s priorities over the next few years to include: Congressional and Grant funding for the restoration of passenger rail service at Gardner, Congressional earmarks for Gardner, Massachusetts State Grants, U.S. Department of Justice grants impacting the Gardner PD and Mental Health – Wellness, U.S. Department of Transportation grants including Safe Streets and Roads, RAISE Grant, Reconnecting Communities Grant, and Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant, US FEMA Grants including for the Gardner Fire Department, US EDA Grants including for Gardner DPW, and US EPA Grants including Brownfields Assessment and Cleanup and Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling. The City of Gardner is paying $7,500 per month to Keller Partners. The City’s last investment of $50,000 resulted in a return of more than $20 million.

  View complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

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• Waiting in Line

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Waiting in Line” about what none of us likes to do, wait…

  Anyone who has ever waited in a never-ending line will identify with the song. But sometimes, you meet someone in that line who can change your life forever. Listen to the BLUES version on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  For the song page featuring lyrics and 3 other versions, CLICK HERE.

  “I waited in line, waited in line, it took so much time, so much time…that line was never ending, never ending….”

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• Freezing Rain

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases Complaint Song “Freezing Rain”

  Ever wish you could write a letter to Mother Nature complaining about that pesky freezing rain? Well, this original song is a quirky complaint song about Freezing Rain. First song is a unique Male-Female Pop Duet and the second is a Pop version

  Complete song page with lyrics, CLICK HERE.

  Graphic depicts Mother Nature in the form of branches rising above a man who wants to complain about the freezing rain around him.

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• Hotline 2-15-25

  

  The WGAW Hotline Radio show hosted by Steve Wendell airs every Saturday from noon to 2pm. The station live stream is available 24/7. This extended show features the entire Sludge Landfill Expansion session with public comments.

  WGAW Extended Hotline “Washington’s Birthday Weekend” show topics include Gardner Government, Templeton Recreation, Presidents Day, and Sludge Landfill Expansion.

  WGAW Hotline Host Steve Wendell and Gardner Mayor Nicholson are depicted with George Washington apparel in our graphic. Starting off the show was Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who spoke about plowing, budgets, explained the GES project surplus and how the $8 million legally be spent, School Department information and success of students, and the parking ban regarding the storm of February 15^th through February 16^th. —- Candy Graves spoke at length about Templeton Recreation. Werner Poegel had a commentary on Presidents Day (George Washington’s Birthday) In the 2^nd hour and extended 3rd hour, there’s AUDIO of the Sludge Landfill Information session and public comments which was held in Gardner. Listen to the complete Hotline show on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Storm 2-15-25

  PARKING BAN: Due to the weather forecast, the City of Gardner will have a parking ban from 5pm on Saturday February 15, 2025 until 8pm on Sunday February 16, 2025.

  Here’s Gardner Mayor Nicholson speaking on the parking ban with additional details. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY

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• Historical 2-18-25

  

  Gardner Historical Commission Working Towards Proposed Historic Preservation Zoning Amendment

  The Gardner Historical Commission will be meeting 6pm February 18, 2025 at the Gardner Museum at 28 Pearl Street. The commission has been taking a much more active role in the City recently.

  The packed agenda includes a review of communications from the Massachusetts Historical Commission regarding the School Street School demolition. A New item is the Gardner High School Relinquished Artifacts Evaluation. Ongoing items include a commission office update, Gardner City Hall Artifacts documentation update, historical markers documentation update, old burying ground restoration and preservation, greenwood memorial pool artifacts and demolition, former school street school demolition, form Complete Meeting Agenda

  Gardner Historical Commission members include Chairman Charles LaHaye, Treasurer Christopher Pera, Clerk Alan Agnelli, member Paul Gaj, and member Scott Huntoon.

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• Flu 2-14-25

  MA Respiratory Dashboard Shows Spike in Influenza

  According to the State of Massachusetts Respiratory Dashboard, CLICK HERE, the current estimated severity of influenza is VERY HIGH as reported for the week of 2/2/25 to 2/8/25. Data is updated weekly for the prior week. MA reports 139 influenza deaths so far this season. The entire state is reported as VERY HIGH. So how does that compare to prior years? For much of January through March last year, the classification was HIGH. CLICK on image for larger view.

  Color code: Minimal: Blue, Low: Green, Moderate: Yellow, High: Orange, Very High: Red.

  

  Provider visits are showing a spike, 2-3x last year at this time.

  

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• Finance 2-12-25

  

  

  $8 Million Project Gets Closer to Approval with Finance Committee Recommendation

  The City of Gardner took out a 30 year loan to pay for its portion of the Gardner Elementary School which opened in the Fall of 2022. Recently, the project was deemed completed and went through an audit confirming that over $8 million was left. The Finance Committee voted on February 12, 2025 to recommend that the full City Council approve Gardner Mayor Nicholson’s proposal to utilize the remaining funds for other projects confirmed to have a 30 year or more useful life. If the full City Council votes to approve the plan, the monies would be spent rather than being put towards reducing the principal on the loan. In that event, however, the taxpayers would not be off the hook and would end up doling out more money per month as many of the items the Mayor outlined have been on the Capital Projects list for a decade or more and would likely need to be funded in some manner in the near future. The Mayor’s proposal keeps the City’s monthly payment the same as it is right now. Listen to the entire Finance Committee Meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Next Step: City Council discussion and possible vote on Tuesday February 18^th. Complete Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE. (Council meets a day later due to Monday holiday.)

  Mayor Nicholson explained the criteria used to make the individual selections on the list: “Bond counsel informed us in order to get something that qualified for the reappropriation of these funds, we needed a project that had a letter stamped by a professional engineer. It was a certified engineer that took the state test and got the official professional engineering status to say that the lifetime of that project had a minimum 30-year lifespan. What that means is there’s different warranties that play into that, but there’s also different state laws that specify what projects fit into that 30-year category. For instance, paving by law can only have a loan taken out for up to 10 years. Outdoor recreational facilities can only have a loan taken out for 15 years, and equipment can only have a loan taken out for up to 20 years. Building improvements, however, are a 30-year, and other projects that meet certain engineer specifications or specifications of the general law are also 30 years.” Complete List, CLICK HERE.

  Publisher’s Note: What if the $8 million got added to next year’s budget instead?

  This year, the Gardner’s $86 million dollar budget is composed of $41 million for the general fund, $34 million for the schools, and just under $11 million for enterprise funds. So at first glance, adding $8 million to next year’s budget would seem to add 10.7% or about $428 to the average property tax bill, right. (adding general fund + schools) Well, not so fast. Millions of dollars in Gardner’s budget comes from the State of MA such as the School funds, so the figure would be even higher. All of a sudden it is easily realized the Mayor is looking out for the taxpayers with the option he is proposing. Instead of smacking each taxpayer with an extra 500 bucks or more, it’s a sensible idea which helps in a big way to keep up Gardner’s existing buildings – which has been a problem in the past. Many of the outlined needs have been on the Capital Improvements list for years. Have a better idea? Email News@GardnerMagazine.com and give us your thoughts.

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• Week 2-14-25

  

  This Week in the Chair City – an Update by Gardner Magazine

  Gardner Magazine on some of what is going on in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Some activities for School Vacation Week – Employment opportunities – Chamber of Commerce Super Raffle – Recognizing Signs of a Stroke – Song Releases Noted – Various City Events – Various City notices – Registrations – Upcoming Meetings.

  
  If you’d like to have your event on “This Week in the Chair City” just email News@GardnerMagazine.com.

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• City Hall

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “City Hall (I’ve Got a Lucky Job)“

  If you’ve been to Gardner City Hall, you can describe it as the “Problem Solver” Mall with many offices and departments there to assist with various needs. This is a salute to the service providers at Gardner City Hall. A Soul and Country Version. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  View the complete song page with lyrics, CLICK HERE.

  If you see someone at Gardner City Hall today, tell them “I’m playing your song.” and tell them how much they are appreciated for the work they do.

  Jobs available working for the City of Gardner, CLICK HERE.

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• Planning 2-11-25

  

  Gardner Planning Board Approves Compass Lane Subdivision

  While other state agencies might still weigh in regarding traffic concerns the public has expressed, the Gardner Planning Board approved the Compass Lane Subdivision project at its meeting of February 11, 2025. The subdivision would be located at the Gardner-Templeton line. Robert Swartz is now the Chairman of the Planning Board. Representing the Department of Community Development and Planning was new Director Jason Stevens, sitting next to Swartz. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  For more contact information for the Department of Community Development and Planning, please visit this page, CLICK HERE.

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• Freezing 2-13-25

  

  Freezing Rain Shutters Schools, Businesses, and Makes Travel Dangerous

  Snow turned to freezing rain on February 13, 2025. Many area schools and businesses have chosen to close. Travel on the morning of February 13th was deemed dangerous. Complete list of closings from WCVB, CLICK HERE. In the local area, closings were entirely dependent on local weather conditions.

  National Weather Service forecast on Thursday, February 13, 2025: “Freezing rain, possibly mixed with drizzle before 1pm, then a chance of rain showers between 1pm and 4pm. Areas of fog. High near 37. Light and variable wind becoming west 5 to 9 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.”

  Gardner Public Schools posted “Due to the timing of today’s inclement weather forecast, all schools will be closed. All afternoon activities will also be canceled. We will see you tomorrow, then it’s off to February Break!“

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• Song – Presidents

  

  The Long song versions took many, many hours of work to research the historical fact and edit about a dozen or so individual parts into the final songs.

  HAPPY PRESIDENTS DAY!

  An Ambitious Release in Honor of Presidents Day

  Presidents Day is Monday February 17, 2025. Most City Halls and Town Offices will be closed for the Federal Holiday. Gardner Magazine is releasing “Song of the Presidents” – a normal length tune as well as our ambitious project, the “Symphony Song of the Presidents” which runs more than 1/2 hour long. Entire Lyrics of both compositions are on this page, CLICK HERE.

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• $8 Million Project

  

  

  Gardner Mayor Proposes School Surplus Fund $8 Million Dollar Project

  Construction of the new Gardner Elementary School came in $8 Million under budget. The result is an $8 million surplus sitting in Gardner’s bank account. Gardner has 3 choices: (1) Put the amount towards principal which wouldn’t reduce current monthly payments but loan would be paid off 1-2 years early. (2) Wait until the end of the year and ask that the amount be added to FREE CASH so monies could be expended next year or (3) Utilize the funds in the spirit of the original loan and fund capital projects with a useful life of 30 years or more. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson is asking the City Council to choose option 3 and he has a list. The exact amount is $8,161,000. Note that the amounts are good-faith estimates with actual costs known only after City goes out to bid and contracts are awarded.

  The proposal puts a majority of the money back towards the schools including $1,500,000 for Gardner High School Auditorium upgrades, $2,000,000 for Gardner High School Locker Room Replacement, and $1,2000,00 for replacing the Gardner Middle School roof, plus $180,000 in other projects. Total for the schools: $4,880,000. In the City: $1,081,000 for various projects at the Community Center, $225,000 towards the Greenwood Pool Administration Building, City Hall improvements to include electrical, facade, bathroom, entryway, and Perry Auditorium windows and doors totaling $1,175,00, and $800,000 towards Rear Main Street construction. Grand Total $8,161,000 — Schools – 60% Other City Projects 40% See Graphic for individual breakdown, CLICK HERE.

  Next steps: The Finance Committee will review the proposal at its February 12, 2025 meeting and make its recommendations to the full City Council. Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

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• Sludge 2-10-25

  

  Sludge Landfill Presentation and Public Input in Gardner MA

  On February 10, 2025, a presentation was made to the public by a representative from the firm working for the City of Gardner. Links to various documents are below for your reference. Following the presentation, there was about an hour of citizen input. All of the citizen input was negative, in opposition to the Sludge Landfill expansion. At the end, City Engineer Rob Oliva stated that the public comments would be added to the Draft Environmental Impact Report. Listen to the entire session on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Presentation at the session, CLICK HERE.

  MEPA Draft, CLICK HERE.

  Draft Environmental Impact Statement, CLICK HERE.

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• School 2-10-25

  

  “Kids who need more get more” – Elementary School Principal Earl Martin. Just one of the memorable statements from this informative School Committee meeting.

  Gardner School Committee Holds Informative Meeting

  At the Gardner MA School Committee Meeting of February 10, 2025, Behavioral and Academic presentations from various individuals took up more than 1/2 hour at the beginning of the meeting. Bottom line: Very good news about District performance and the big news – Gardner is recognized not only by the State but also by other communities for its successful progress. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Various policies were approved. School Committee members had various comments regarding the District. At the end of the meeting, Gardner Mayor Nicholson spoke about the District’s insurance and reported that the account was stable. The Mayor also reported on the $8 million surplus re the Gardner Elementary School project and various uses for the City. The Mayor noted that details will be discussed at the next City Council Finance Committee meeting and then the full Council will vote. The extensive more than 200 page packet contains some very good information and we urge you to read it. Agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  School Calendars

  2025-2026 CLICK HERE. — 2026-2027 CLICK HERE

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• Ride-Along 2025

  

  Gardner Mayor Works Late Shift in Annual Snow Storm Ride-along

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has created a tradition of riding with the DPW during a plowing event each year. In the last snow storm, the Mayor did the late shift.

  Gardner Mayor Nicholson posted the photos used in our collage and commented: “Thank you to Gardner DPW Foreman Doug Munroe for letting me join him for our annual snow storm plow ride-along. While I try to do a ride-along in a plow with the crews once a year, this was my first time doing a night storm. Things really are different in the plows from 11pm to 3am compared to during the daytime.

  I really enjoy learning the first hand perspective of what our DPW employees do in order to keep our streets open and safe during these winter weather events. Thank you to all of our DPW employees for the work you do every day, but especially these late nights and long days during the winter!“

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• Dynamic Duo

  

  Penney and Bujak Honored as Successful Dynamic CEO-CFO Duo

  Heywood Healthcare stated, “Heywood Healthcare is excited to announce that Rozanna Penney, CEO, and John Bujak, CFO, have been named to Becker’s Top 30 Highly Successful CEO-CFO Duos!”

  From Becker’s Hospital Review: Rozanna Penney, CEO & John Bujak, CFO of Heywood Healthcare (Gardner, Mass.). Under Ms. Penney and Mr. Bujak’s direction, Heywood Healthcare successfully navigated a Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring from October 2023 to September 2024, achieving financial stability and operational growth. Their strategic cost reduction initiatives saved $14 million annually, while service line optimization generated an additional $2 million in savings. Despite financial restructuring, they expanded critical services, including reopening the inpatient mental health unit to full capacity for the first time since 2017, increasing inpatient, surgical and ambulatory volumes, and boosting labor and delivery by 15% and perioperative volume by 17%. They also launched a doula program, adding 11 new doulas, and introduced a non-emergency medical transportation program to improve patient access. Employee satisfaction also improved by 6.4% for the first time in five years under their tenure. See the complete list, CLICK HERE. View 100 great community hospitals, CLICK HERE. Healthcare related news from Becker, CLICK HERE.

  From the Heywood Healthcare website: Maternity Information – Virtual Tour —- Behavioral Health Services —- Listing of all services

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• Clear Hydrants

  

  An Easy Life and Property Saving Measure in Greater Gardner MA

  When time counts, a clear path to a fire hydrant may make the difference. The Gardner Fire Department posted, “Shoveling snow away from fire hydrants is crucial to ensure emergency responders can access them quickly in case of a fire. Delays caused by buried hydrants could hinder firefighting efforts, putting lives and property at risk. With the recent snowfall, please take a few minutes and shovel any fire hydrants near your home.”

  Further suggestions: Clear at least 3 feet around the hydrant and clear a path to the street.

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• Romantic Restaurant

  

  Full Transparency: All poll results and the number of votes. Conclusion: Question not really answered.

  Real Poll on Romantic Restaurant Gives Mixed Results

  Gardner Magazine noticed that another publication had published a poll regarding what is the most Romantic Restaurant in the area. Only problem: The names of restaurants were pre-listed with some local restaurants already excluded. So we decided to do a real poll with local Social Media members choosing their own options. When publishing a poll, the user must have at least one option, so we put in what we thought was an innocuous term, “Home”. Our observation was that some thought the question was ridiculous and others took it seriously. Also note that the term “Greater Gardner” means something different to different people. So here are the actual unvarnished results after 1 week. Click on each poll graphic to see a larger view.

  

  Gardner MA Uncensored: Home 8%, There isn’t one 67%, I guess Sawa 6%, Taco Bell 4%, Corner booth at William’s 6%, Gardner Ale House 3%, Williams 2%, Dumpster behind McDonald’s 2%, Backseat of car 2% Total Votes 89

  

  Gardner MA What’s Going On: Home 47%, Ale House 11%, Williams 14%, Sawa 11%, Shane’s Hot Dogs 5%, The Old Mill Crackerbarrel Lounge 8%, Taco Bell 2%, Cumberland Farms 2%. Total votes: 69

  

  Publisher’s Note: We all know how far off various polls can be even when careful protocols are observed. For example, even in a Presidential poll, pollsters rotate which candidate’s name is mentioned first as even that can affect results. In our case, one social media group seized upon “Home” as a desired response, the other did not, but seized upon a member’s “there isn’t one”. Conclusion: Our poll did not really answer the original question, but we decided it would be useful to publish the results along with the number of respondents.

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• Committee 2-10-25

  

  Gardner School Committee Holds Meeting on Monday February 10, 2025

  The Gardner School Committee is expected to accept grant funds in the amount of $100,000 and accept a donation in the amount of $75,000 to establish a scholarship. The committee is also expected to vote on various expenditures.

  During the meeting, school policies will be discussed including non-discrimination and harassment, Cori policy, Committee powers and duties, relations with nonpublic schools, health policies and requirements, student photographs, public gifts to the schools, public solicitations, and advertising in the schools.

  Complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

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• Shelter Reform

  

  Representative Jonathan Zlotnik Comments on House Passage of Right-to-Shelter Reform Bill

  Representative Jonathan Zlotnik joined colleagues in the Massachusetts House in voting to pass a bill reforming the state run homeless shelter system. Right-to-Shelter was put in place more than 4 decades ago and many, including Zlotnik, have described the current system as “not sustainable.” In a Press Release, Representative Zlotnik stated “While this bill is not perfect it is a significant step forward, especially in the area of cost containment.” Importantly, the bill gives the HLC the authority to require benefits to be provided only to families who are residents of Massachusetts and who are United States citizens or otherwise lawfully permitted to reside in MA. In Gardner, it was recently announced by the State of MA that the Super 8 hotel will cease being used as a shelter by June 30^th. Read the complete Press Release, click here.

  Jonathan Zlotnik also added the following comments for Gardner Magazine: “I also want to add a few things I didn’t get into in depth in the release. This is the 2nd session where funding for this program has been done in a separate bill. As I said, I didn’t vote for the last one, but during that debate I voted for many amendments that offered reforms that did not pass. Some of those were included in this bill and there still some others that I think are good ideas that will hopefully gain more support in the future.”

  “I also want to point out that while unfortunately this bill is being used by some to make this a partisan issue, House Republicans offered as their plan for this bill on the floor yesterday, and voted for, to authorize $200 million now, and come back again later in the year for more funding. That’s because I think everyone recognizes that cutting back a 40-year-old program that currently houses ~6,000 families is not something you can do overnight without causing severe problems even for those of us who think that this program needs to be deeply reformed and scaled back. The other piece that is getting missed by most of the coverage that has focused on the immigration angle, is that throughout this crisis, about half of the families statewide in the shelter system are American citizens.”

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• Red Songs

  

  

  “Tell Your Valentine ( I Love You)” and “The Red Charger”

  2 Songs Released for Valentine’s Day

  A Valentine’s Day Song called “Tell Your Valentine (I Love You)

  For the song page with complete lyrics and another version, CLICK HERE.

  Another Red song called “The Red Charger” – a classic rock song about getting a fast, red Dodge Charger. Play on any device. CLICK PLAY

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• Job Title 2-8-25

  

  Gardner Magazine Releases “Job Title” – original song about Job Titles

  Job Titles have somehow become more creative in recent years and this song makes fun of the more interesting titles. Listen to the FUNK song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Are you a Chief Sanitation Engineer or Hollywood Cleaning agent, World Social Media trailblazer or Facebook Addict? Technical evangelist or spiritual equipment officer, King or queen of signals or the family counselor.

  For the song page with complete lyrics and additional versions, CLICK HERE.

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• 18 HR. Commentary

  

  Commentary – 18 Hour Trade War – Not a Conflict at All

  The recent 18 Hour Trade War was not a war at all. Listen to the commentary on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Listen to the song featured in the commentary by itself, the 18 Hour Trade War song. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Visit the song page with lyrics and an additional version of the song, CLICK HERE.

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• Hotline 2-8-25

  

  Planning – Resources – Funding – Legislation – Policy Focus of WGAW Hotline Radio Program

  Hotline Radio Program on WGAW aired Saturday February 8, 2025 from noon to 2pm. Here are some of the highlights:

  
  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke with host Steve Wendell on various topics including Project Planning for the City of Gardner —- A Deep Dive Report with Jack and Jill on Veterans Resources in Massachusetts – ABC Report on Defunding the U.S. Department of Education —– Interview with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik on Housing and MA legislation —- 18 Hour Trade War Commentary and Song by Werner Poegel. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Miss a past Hotline Radio show? Visit the WGAW Hotline Radio Archive page and listen to past shows, CLICK HERE.

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• Storm 2-8-25

  

  An AUDIO message from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson regarding the storm and parking ban. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Winter Storm Warning 7pm February 8^th to 1pm February 9^th in area and state

  The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning from 7pm on Saturday February 8, 2025 to 1pm on Sunday, February 9, 2025. Heavy snow is expected with total snow accumulations between 4 and 7 inches. All of Massachusetts east of the Berkshires is affected except for the Cape and Islands. Travel could be very difficult and extreme caution is advised. Stay home if possible.

  From Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson “Due to the predicted inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban beginning this evening, Saturday, February 8th, at 9:00pm, and expiring at 3:00pm tomorrow, Sunday, February 9th. There will be a public parking lot ban from 3:00pm tomorrow evening 5:00pm tomorrow, Sunday, February 9th.Residents are advised to restrict all travel to only that which is necessary during the parking ban, to allow crews to adequately plow the roads.”

  For more weather information, please visit our Greater Gardner Weather Center page, CLICK HERE.

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• This Week 2-7-25

  

  This Week in the Chair City – an Update by Gardner Magazine

  Gardner Magazine on some of what is going on in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Business Openings —- Fundraisers — Budget News —- Gardner Super 8 —- Black History Month —- Events —- Registrations — Sponsorships —- Health and Wellness Fair —- Gardner Farmers Market —- Various Upcoming Meetings in Gardner – Levi Heywood Memorial Library

  If you’d like to have your event on the periodic “This Week in the Chair City” just email News@GardnerMagazine.com.

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• No Parking – Yes Trash

  

  

  No On-Street Parking Thursday, Yes There will be Trash Collection

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has informed us that there will be an on-street parking ban on Thursday, February 6th from 7am to 7pm.

  Here is what the Mayor wrote on Wednesday “On the advice of the DPW and Police Dept, Due to the predicted inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban, tomorrow, Thursday, February 6, beginning at 7:00am and ending at 7:00pm tomorrow evening (February 6th). A further reminder will be issued tomorrow.

  EL Harvey has informed the City they plan to move forward with trash collection as regularly scheduled tomorrow. (February 6th)”

  School Closings Thursday February 6th

  School Closings Thursday February 6, 2025 as of 9:40pm on day before: Ashburnham-Westminster, Athol-Royalston, Fitchburg, Gardner, Leominster, Montachusett Regional Voc. Tech, Mount Wachusett Community College, Nashoba Regional, Nashoba Valley Technical, North Middlesex, Quabbin Regional, Wachusett Regional, Complete MA list, CLICK HERE. In addition, Winchendon Schools Facebook page shows Winchendon is also closed on Thursday February 6th. If you aren’t sure about your community, please check local resources.

  The Gardner Senior Center and the Levi-Heywood Memorial Library will be closed Thursday, February 6th.

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• City Council 2-3-25

  

  In a statement during Council Comments and Remarks, Council President Tyros emphasizes why oversight is so important in the context of a July 31, 2024 meeting. We have details below and AUDIO from that meeting.

  Gardner City Council Meets on February 3, 2025

  The Council added a Committee on Economic and Community Development on a vote of 9 -0. — Feasibility Study for Middle School Roof Replacement passed. City will borrow $100,000 —- A Human Resource Manager position was added. —- Jayden Kumar was confirmed as Assistant City Clerk after receiving compliments from many Councilors.. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Council President Tyros Issues Statement During Council Comments and Remarks

  
  “After about a month of operating with these new council rules, I want to take a moment to highlight the positive effects they have led on our council operations. As we just saw, tonight’s agenda was clear and straightforward, including only items that undergone subcommittee review and were ready to be acted upon. For example, this evening’s agenda included a time-sensitive item regarding the MSBA’s accelerated roof repair program for the middle school roof. In the past, the norm would have been for this to go on the council agenda where it would have either been referred to finance committee or, because of the timeliness, been asked for a vote right away. The rule change enabled us for a direct assignment of this item to proper subcommittee once adequate information was submitted by the mayor and department head. Without this change, the only information the council would have had to work with for a six-figure appropriation would have been a single email from the school department’s director of finance and operations. However, the finance committee was able to ask questions, request information, and delve into the reasons why this appropriation was needed before bringing the item to the council for attention. All requests for appropriation deserve to be carefully reviewed, and that responsibility grows with the size of the request. We as a council should be able to, in a timely manner, and we should be able to work on a deadline. This situation showed that, and importantly showed, the value of the new rules and procedures. I want to highlight why this process is so important. At the Capital Improvement Planning Committee meeting on July 31, 2024, the school department’s director of finance and operations, when asked to clarify the math behind the planned reimbursement for one-time funds for other in-flight projects using capital improvement project funds, of which the middle school roof replacement is part of, his response was evasive. He claimed it would, quote, get into the nitty-gritty of school finances. It’s on YouTube if anyone’s interested. Getting into the nitty-gritty of our finances is exactly what I think our responsibility is to the taxpayer. We will be judicious in making sure that we have the proper information and we ask the right questions in order to make the best decisions possible for the city. We should all want this, and we should all work towards this. These updated council rules allow us to do that by functioning more transparently ourselves and fulfill our duties of legislative oversight, as demonstrated here tonight. “

  Listen to the Capital Improvement Committee meeting Council President Tyros referenced and hear what Tyros called the evasive response from Director of Finance and Operations, Mark Hawke when asked a question by City Purchasing Director Cormier and then what ensued when Tyros followed up. Video Link Here. We have AUDIO of the complete meeting at right and the concerning 3 1/2 minute exchange Council President Tyros is referencing in his comments above.

  Discussion Revolved around the $8 million surplus. Councilor Tyros and other committee members asked some very specific oversight questions at the meeting. Hear the concerning responses from Mark Hawke in this excerpt from the meeting. CLICK PLAY.

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• Black History Month 2025

  

  Resources to learn more about Black History Month:

  The Library of Congress hosts a complete website devoted to Black History month. Covers events, exhibits, collections, AUDIO, video, and has a great guide for teachers. CLICK HERE.

  The Smithsonian has a Black History Month page, CLICK HERE.

  The U.S. Census website has a complete page on Black History month with complete statistics such as the more than 50 million Black Americans and the more than 160,000 Black owned employer businesses in the U.S. CLICK HERE.

  The National Museum of African American History and Culture has a Black History month page: CLICK HERE.

  

  Local, State, and Federal Executives Honor Black History Month

  In the City of Gardner, Mayor Michael Nicholson and Council President George Tyros issued a Proclamation which is also signed by Councilor Dana Heath. The Proclamation states in part, “February is designated Black History Month, a time for honoring and exploring the culture and history of African Americans and recognizing that our society’s rich diversity is one of our greatest strengths… Observing Black History Month provides opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of African American history and acknowledge the centuries of struggles for equality” Read the complete Proclamation by clicking on the image below:

  

  At the State level, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey posted on X: “Black History is American History. Black history is Massachusetts history.
  Learn it. Embrace it. Celebrate the Black change makers and innovators who continue to push our state and our nation toward full freedom, justice and equality for all. Happy Black History Month.”

  At the Federal level, President Donald Trump wrote in a Proclamation: “Every year, National Black History Month is an occasion to celebrate the contributions of so many black American patriots who have indelibly shaped our Nation’s history.

  Throughout our history, black Americans have been among our country’s most consequential leaders, shaping the cultural and political destiny of our Nation in profound ways. American heroes such as Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Thomas Sowell, Justice Clarence Thomas, and countless others represent what is best in America and her citizens. Their achievements, which have monumentally advanced the tradition of equality under the law in our great country, continue to serve as an inspiration for all Americans. We will also never forget the achievements of American greats like Tiger Woods, who have pushed the boundaries of excellence in their respective fields, paving the way for others to follow.”

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• Super 8

  

  State says: Gardner Super 8 use as Migrant Shelter ends June 30th

  Tyler Newhall, the Legislative Director for Emergency Assistance & Director of Municipal Relations for the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities has informed the City of Gardner that this is part of the State’s efforts to phase out the use of hotels as Emergency Assistance shelters by the end of 2025. The City of Gardner has had no control over migrant placements. A check of Trip Advisor shows that the last public review of Super 8 Gardner was February 2023 and before that numerous ones from 2022 indicating just how long the facility has been utilized as an EA shelter.

  Here’s exactly what Tyler Newhall wrote in an email sent simultaneously on February 3rd to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, State Senator Peter Durant, and State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik:

  “I am writing to inform you of the planned closure of the Gardner Super 8 as an Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter site by Monday, June 30th, as part of our efforts to phase out the use of hotels as EA shelters by the end of 2025.

  In the coming months, service provider Making Opportunities Count (MOC) will continue to support families with case management and to secure permanent housing. It is our shared goal to support as many families as possible to exit the shelter system into safe and stable housing prior to the site closure. For many families, this will include utilizing rental assistance through the HomeBASE program, and we appreciate the community’s support in identifying potential landlords and available apartments. EOHLC will support any families that remain eligible for EA who have not successfully exited shelter for stable housing by the site closure to transfer to an alternative family shelter location.

  In the coming days, we will notify partners of these site closure plans and take the following steps to support the transition:

  EOHLC and the contracted shelter service provider will communicate directly with families at the shelter location to inform them of the planned closure date and resources and services available to support them. This will include resource materials translated to multiple languages and an in-person town hall for all shelter residents.

  The Department of Elementary & Secondary Education will contact your superintendent to inform them of the planned closure date and help prepare the district for any potential changes to enrollments or transportation needs.

  EOHLC and state partners will directly contact community-based organizations and local partners to inform them of the planned closure date.

  On behalf of the Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities (EOHLC) and the Healey-Driscoll Administration, I’d like to express enormous gratitude for your partnership and commitment to serving children and families placed in emergency shelter in your community during this extraordinary time.

  Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any questions or if I can be of assistance in any way.

  All the best,

  Ty“

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• Monument Park 2025

  

  Have questions? Like to support the Summer Concert Series at Monument Park? Send an email to: bandstand@gardner-ma.gov

  Gardner’s Unassuming Monument Park is Really a Big Deal

  For years Gardner’s Bandstand Committee has met prior to the Summer Concert Series season. Its next meeting is Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 3:30pm located at the DPW office at 50 Manca Drive in Gardner. At the meeting the committee will be finalizing the 2025 Concert Schedule and discussing various contracts. They will also be reviewing their financial statements and that’s where individuals and businesses can help. All of the Summer Concerts at Monument Park are FREE, but the artists are top notch, costing much more than attendees imagine. Donations support the series and additional business sponsors and individual donations are always welcome.

  How wonderful would it be if individuals and business owners showed up at the April 24^th meeting with support in the form of a check. Have questions? Send an email to: bandstand@gardner-ma.gov Last year was awesome with a variety of music including the 60’s, Classic Rock, Country, Oldies, Blues, and even the Beatles. With support, this year will be even better than last.

  The Bandstand Committee includes Chairman Michael Zlotnik, Mark Monahan, Nancy Binder, Denise Merriam, Edward Vipond and Administrative Assistant Marry Rojas. Have questions? Send an email to: bandstand@gardner-ma.gov

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