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Update 4-26-24 (4/26/2024)

With May fast approaching Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City of Gardner

Mayor Nicholson spoke of amenities, construction, reminders, and events. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner’s Outdoor Amenities: Mayor Nicholson spoke of the Bike Trail, Dunn Park, different parks and playgrounds, and walking trails. He announced that the disc golf at Bailey Brook Park has a couple pins in. The Mayor let everyone know that an insurance claim was filed after a tree fell on $75,000 worth of new playground equipment at Ovila Case. “It is something that’s on our radar to try to fix as quickly as those claims go through…”

Construction Begins: Beginning Monday April 29th construction resumes at Uptown Rotary. “Right now, it looks like traffic will be diverted down Cherry Street from Pearl Street into Central Street.“

Reminders: Downtown Banner and flower pot sponsorships still available. —- National Small Business Week is April 28th through May 4th, “Please be sure to support your local businesses.” — Registrations are now open for the Summer Recreation Program. —- Gardner Municipal Golf Course is now open. “Daily rates for weekdays for nine holes is $20, and 18 holes $37. Weekend rates for nine holes are $24, and 18 holes $42. Rates are for walking, and carts require an additional charge on top of that. Memberships are also open at this time for applications.”

Events: May 2nd at noon is the National Day of Prayer event over at Higher Ground Ministries —Keep Gardner Beautiful Saturday May 4th. —- Introduction to Beekeeping at Levi Heywood Memorial Library on May 4th —-AED Foundation Recovery Comedy Night May 16th at 7pm at Perry Auditorium, Gardner City Hall —- Greater Gardner Community Choir Spring Concert Sunday May 19th at 3pm at Bethany Baptist Church —- Greater Gardner Relay for Life June 7th and June 8th. —- Light the Town Purple Event is May 6th at 6:30pm
Monument Park 24 (4/24/2024)

Gardner Bandstand Committee 4-25-24

Monument Park Summer Concert Series Back for 2024

The Gardner Bandstand Committee met at 3pm on April 25, 2024 to finalize the 2024 Gardner Summer Concert Series at Monument Park. Gardner Magazine has received a preliminary list which was released prior to the meeting. However, with the first concert slated to be on June 22nd, we will wait to publish the list until it is finalized and confirmed.

We can tell you that Viva Las Elvis is being removed from the calendar as the artist has asked for more money than what is feasible. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY

The 2023 Concert Series was successful due to the positive reception to the quality of the performances and to the cooperation of Mother Nature who provided good weather on some occasions. We will also be publishing the schedule of the Lithuanian Outing Association and the PACC.

Meeting of April 25, 2024 Details

Gardner Magazine got an inside look at the hard work put in by the Bandstand Committee. For those attending the fabulous Summer Concerts, its a FREE concert. For the Bandstand Committee, the reality is a juggling of funds and the search for sponsors and donations to make each year’s series of concerts happen. Sponsors are always welcome. Donations are always welcome. The deadline to get sponsor info to the printer is sometime in May so there’s still time to come on board. Contact Marry Rojas, the DPW Administrator Coordinator at (978) 630-8195 or email: marryrojas@gardner-ma.gov. And note there are 2r’s in her first name just like we have it here.

The meeting opened with a discussion of the artist, Mr. Fontaine who was asking for more money. First year was 800, last year was 1200, and the request was for 3500 for this year. The committee decided to go with Holdin’ Back the 60’s which has offered to do the same date for $599. Members of the committee discussed the status of various sponsors. It is very clear that sponsor support and donations are crucial. As one of the committee members stated, “I think what people don’t realize is, you know, the city doesn’t…Well, no. The city doesn’t supply any money. The city doesn’t give us anything. We have to do this on sponsors.” Donations and sponsorships are critical as bands keep raising prices.
Gardner Rainbow (4/22/2024)

The beauty of a rainbow in Gardner, MA on April 18, 2024.

Mother Nature’s Rainbow captured in Gardner MA

There was no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but there was beauty in the sky on April 18, 2024 in Gardner MA as a beautiful rainbow was observed by many from different vantage points. Marion Knoll captured an image in South Gardner. Jezrielle Grace captured a photo near Aldi. And a photo captured by a member of the Lehoux Family showed the rainbow over houses. It was a gift from Mother Nature – a beautiful rainbow. And it happened on one day in Gardner MA.
Trout Released (4/18/2024)

State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik Snapped a Fishy Picture in Gardner MA

Gardner Magazine grabbed a screenshot from Zlotnik’s short video to show the trout flowing into Kendall Pond. Zlotnik stated, “After a few year hiatus, it only took about 15 seconds for 300 trout to move into Kendall Pond. Thanks to Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife for working with us to make this happen. Special thanks to Lizzy Kazinskas for her work to get the public dock for the City that allows for greater access and also gave me the perfect angle for this video!”

The State of Massachusetts has a website with details on where and when it stocks trout. Many areas of note on the list include Middle and West Branch of the Swift River in New Salem, Otter River in Gardner and Templeton, East Branch Ware River in Hubbardston, Princeton and Rutland, Stillwater River in Princeton, Dunn Pond in Gardner, Ware and Prince River in Barre, Parkers Brook in Oakham, at least 5 locations in Ashby, Asnacomet Pond in Hubbardston, Long Pond in Rutland, and the list goes on. MassWildlife will stock about 455,000 trout this spring.
Rietta Open (4/14/2024)

With almost 6 decades being open Sundays from April to November, Rietta Flea market opened for the season on Sunday April 14, 2024.

Hundreds of vendors treated thousands of bargain hunters to a huge vista of merchandise. The popular snack bar was open for reasonably priced delicious food and beverages. Smiles were abundant. Admission is FREE. Parking is FREE. And next Sunday (weather permitting) they do it all again.

For more information about Rietta Flea Market visit RiettaFleaMarket.com CLICK HERE.
April Events (4/8/2024)

For a complete listing of 2024 Events, visit our 2024 Greater Gardner MA Events page, CLICK HERE.

As the weather gets better, the number of Greater Gardner MA events grows every day. Make sure your event gets maximum exposure to our 20,000+ unique circulation. Send us details. News@GardnerMagazine.com

Have an event coming up? Email details to News@GardnerMagazine.com and we’ll post details about your event including date, time, description, and location with a link to a flyer and/or a website if you have one.

Some April 2024 Events in Greater Gardner MA

April 10, 2024 Events – 7pm Comedy Fundraiser to benefit Central Mass Flag Football at Gardner PACC, 171 Kendall Pond Road, Gardner MA 01440 FLYER CLICK HERE. and from 5-7pm Community and Culture Festival, Gardner High School, 200 Catherine Street, Gardner – in the High School Gym. FLYER CLICK HERE. —- Saturday, April 13, 2024 – 59th Annual Athol River Rat Race. Flyer Website —- Wednesday April 17, 2024 – Health and Wellness Fair – 5pm to 7:00pm – Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall, 9 Pleasant Street Gardner —- Over 50 vendor and resource tables. Free raffles drawn every 30 minutes. Fun activities for the whole family. Free refreshments. FREE transportation in Gardner via MART buses. —– April 19 and 20, 2024 – Book Sale at Levi Heywood Memorial Library Hours: Friday 9am to 4:30pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm. Special Preview sale is Thursday, April 18th from 4 to 7pm FLYER, CLICK HERE. —- April 19, 2024 – Friday Night Band at Polish American Citizens Club in Gardner – A Night of Zeppelin – FLYER CLICK HERE. —- April 20, 2024 Events – Townsend’s Earth Day 10am to 3pm at North Middlesex Regional School Parking lots FLYER, CLICK HERE. AND, Winchendon Earth Day Cleanup – 10am – Winchendon Community Park, 86 Ingleside Road, Winchendon. Trail clean up and park clean up. Help us clean our Park. (from Winchendon Parks and Recreation) AND, at 8pm Fresh Ground Coffeehouse inside Unitarian Universalist Church, 66 Elm Street, Gardner. Featuring Creques Alley. Doors open at 7pm. Admission is $10 per person —- April 27, 2024 – Purple Paw Walk Fundraising Event – 9:30am, 2 Charbonneau Street, Gardner (Pulaski Park, Dog Park) FLYER, CLICK HERE. Article, CLICK HERE.
Quake 4-5-24 (4/5/2024)

The Quake Was Felt In Massachusetts on April 5, 2024

The epicenter was in New Jersey miles underneath the earth, but the quake was felt in the State of MA. The USGS has more interesting info, CLICK HERE.

There is a strong likelihood of aftershocks, but only a small chance of them being very strong. Click image for larger view.

According to the USGS, New York City was damaged in 1737 and 1884 from earthquakes. Moderately damaging earthquakes can be expected twice a century. Typically a magnitude 4.0 earthquake in the Eastern U.S. can be felt about 60 miles away. Step that up to a 5.5, and people will feel it about 300 miles from where it occurred with a possible 25 mile radius of damage.
City Council 4-1-24 (4/2/2024)

Waterford Street School – Fall 2022

Gardner City Council Gets New Council President For 1 Meeting

Alek Dernalowicz was elected unanimously to serve as Council President Pro Tem for the April 1, 2024 meeting as Council President Kazinskas was absent from the meeting. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 4-1-24

While many items were referred to committees there were some big wins on items put forth by Mayor Michael Nicholson affecting Waterford, Cyber Security, and future grants.

A measure to formally change the status of the usage of the Waterford Street School was approved. The lead up to this has been an ongoing process of properly surveying the land and dividing it so that Wilder Field can continue and the Waterford Street School building can be used as a Community Center. Without the formal designation, any tenants such as Growing Places have month to month licensing agreements. Once status changes, long-term lease agreements can be entered into with the various tenants. This is the last step in a process which began in the fall of 2022 when the School Committee formally voted for the change in use.

The Cyber Security request of $77,000 passed. This buys a storage appliance and a 3 year service agreement designed to keep the City of Gardner more secure.

Also approved: $49,000 for a 7 month grant writing contract with another 3rd party who will work on securing Federal grants. City of Gardner has obtained $2.7 million thus far on an investment of $25,000 out of $60,000 allocated for a 3rd party grant writer.

A Finance Committee Meeting preceded the City Council Meeting. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 4-1-24
Crystal Lake (3/30/2024)

Crystal Lake Dike is Repaired – the Before and After

Repairs were completed on Thursday, March 14, 2024 after it was noted that several feet of the dike that holds back water from Crystal Lake had eroded away. The apparent cause: High winds creating waves in the lake. In addition, the actual water level was high due to recent rain, melting and thawing, and improvements in the City’s water system.

Various measures were employed to reduce the water level in Crystal Lake so that flooding was no longer a concern and the rip-rap stones seen in the AFTER photo were installed to stabilize the dike. All of this was done in consultation with the City’s Conservation Agent, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, and the City’s contracted dam inspectors. Coincidentally, a dam inspection report from 10 years ago had recommended the specific action taken in the event of this exact circumstance.

Mayor Nicholson’s Report to City Council on Crystal Lake Dike, CLICK HERE.
Changing Geography (3/30/2024)

Positive Changes to the Gardner MA Geographic Landscape

Changing Gardner Geography Includes: Aldi with Grand Opening on April 4, 2024 (soft opening day before), Five Below in Summer 2024, Chipotle to be built, Brilla Coffee Summer or Fall 2024, and a new Stone planter beautifying Monument Park. Elsewhere at Timpany Crossroads, Joint Operations opens in April and Jersey Mike’s opens later this year.
Zoning 3-27-24 (3/28/2024)

Zoning Board of Appeals With Spirited Discussions at Recent Meeting

During the meeting of March 27, 2024, there were discussions, explanations, and information presented.

Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Zoning Board of Appeals 3-27-24
Conservation 3-25-24 (3/27/2024)

Various Properties Focus of Conservation Commission in Gardner MA

The Gardner Conservation Commission Took up Various Matters on March 25, 2024. Complete Agenda, CLICK HERE.

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

Conservation Commission 3-25-24

Matters concerned vegetation management on Kendall Pond, property located on Wampanoag Road South, 130 Crystal Lake Drive for the North Central Pathway Nature Trail Connector, All Purpose Storage LLC regarding buffer zones of a bordering Vegetated Wetland, contractor building and associated site improvements at 170 Mill Street Gardner
Golf 3-25-24 (3/27/2024)

Season of Golf to Begin in Gardner MA at Municipal Golf Course

The Golf Commission met on March 25, 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Golf Commission 3-25-24

There was a discussion of promoting the Veterans Discount at the Golf Course through a free program.

The computer system is ready to go. Staff has been training on it. It is cloud-based. There was a discussion on when the Golf Course will open. “We’re going to see next week if we can get people walking around….It will be way too wet for golf carts.” They will try next week to see if they can roll some greens.

Right now, receipts are $515,000 and expenses are $725,000 so Golf Course is in the red. However, “As memberships pick up and the golf course opens, that should turn around.”
Council 3-25-24 (3/26/2024)

Council President Kazinskas stated, “The Community Development Block Grant, or CDBG Program, provides funding and technical support for projects that achieve the city’s development objectives while principally benefiting low- and moderate-income persons and or addressing slum and blight conditions. Funding for the CDBG Program is provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development under the guidelines of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended.”

Director Trevor Beauregard responded by describing some funding being held up by the need for an environmental review and indicated that his Department did respond to an audit for the 2021 grant. Hear his opening comment, CLICK PLAY

Director Beauregard Opening Remarks 3-25-24

Other Councilors asked questions of the Director. (Best to listen to entire meeting) Councilor Judy Mack alleges Gross Negligence by a Former Development Department Employee. CLICK PLAY.

Councilor Mack 3-25-24

Gardner City Council Meets on CDBG Grants and Goes over Issues

Various State Reviews of prior year CDBG Grants are taking place and Director of Development and Planning Trevor Beauregard was on hand to answer Councilor questions. Councilor George Tyros (the City Council designee to the Steering Committee) had requested the meeting to review the City’s management of the Community Development Block Grant Program. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 3-25-24

Councilor Tyros stated, “In preparation for the first CDBG meeting of this year, I reached out to the Director in February to request an update on previous block grant projects, specifically the demolition of the Greenwood indoor pool, construction of a new pavilion in its place, and the construction of Maki Park downtown. The Director informed me that the Block Grant 2022-2023 funds have not yet been released, so no project could be initiated. And in a follow-up question, he informed me that all work related to the Block Grant 2022-2023 grant would need to be completed by the Assistant Director after he starts. The reason why we’re here this evening is because at that meeting, the Director shared with me and the committee that as a part of regular monitoring and review by the State of the program, issues were found in the administration of both construction and public social services aspects of the Block Grant program. Issues that, as I’ve said before, are not detrimental, but are holding up funding for important projects and opportunities that we have to action on if we want to continue moving Gardner in the right direction and keep this important funding.” Tyros stated his objective was to have a discussion about the challenges being faced, to make sure changes are being made, and to prevent future issues that could threaten the source of funding. Listen to Councilor Tyros’ full remarks on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Councilor Tyros Opening Remarks 3-25-24

We reached out for further comment to a number of people and Councilor Judy Mack responded, “The grant audit list of errors is a direct result of someone not doing their job of which they were responsible for which was why I said it was a gross negligence on the person who was responsible.”

We did reach out to the former Assistant Director, current Director Trevor Beauregard, Councilor George Tyros, and Mayor Michael Nicholson. We will post their comments here if they choose to add something.
Transportation Survey (3/26/2024)

How to provide Transportation Input: (1) Fill Out the Survey CLICK HERE. (2) If you have further thoughts, email Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson via Mayor@Gardner-MA.gov or call his office at (978) 630-1490. To view a larger version of the image above, just click on it.

Take a FREE, 1 Minute, Easy Transportation Survey and Help Yourself and other Commuters

Gardner Mayor Nicholson stated, “The City and Wood’s Ambulance are conducting a transportation survey for the City to gauge the demand for residents looking for transportation from Gardner to the Wachusett Commuter Rail Station for both work or entertainment/travel purposes.”

The link for the survey can be found here: CLICK HERE.
Service 3-25-24 (3/26/2024)

Gardner MA Public Service Committee Gains Intel on City Progress

Chair Councilor Paul Tassone along with Councilor George Tyros and Councilor Thibeault-Munoz met on March 25, 2024. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Chair Paul Tassone recounted a Zoning problem and is asking that a committee or something be put together to study it. Tassone spoke to a business which is zoned commercial 2 but was erroneously told he was in industrial 2 due to a defect in the Zoning database. City Engineer Rob Oliva stated, “So historically, the GIS survey department has maintained the zoning map. And for some reason, the zoning change had been made. Everybody started looking at the zoning map. It didn’t reflect the change that was made back in the early 2000s at this particular site. When the building department started looking into it, they were having trouble finding the vote of the city council on the issue. So it kind of compounded. But long story short, it was found. Everybody agreed it zoned correctly. The zoning map just never got changed.“

DPW Director Dane Arnold informed about several old pieces of equipment which need to be declared surplus to “at least recoup some of the money.” Arnold reported on staffing and the effect on the last storm, “We have 12 vacancies in the entire DPW, including two retirees that will be retired by the end of this month. On top of that, we have one on medical leave and one on the Family Medical Leave Act, so that leaves us with 14 vacancies currently that we had over the weekend in this last storm. There were seven routes that didn’t have anyone in it, so that just means our guys worked one and a half times longer to get out to cover these routes.” The Director reported that they had received offers from both unions, “hopefully if the salaries increase, we can get some more employees in here.”

Bid was opened last Thursday regarding the transmission line for the water main. Low bid was almost $1,065,000, “anything over $1 million, we’re going to have to pay out of the water enterprise account.” Director Arnold spoke of various paving plans.” I can only authorize for the water department what was excavated up. Obviously, I’m going to talk to the mayor and see if we can incorporate not only James but Highland and Reservoir and just try to get the whole neighborhood together. So I’ll put together a proposal, and hopefully we can get funding for it. We are looking at, the mayor and I, we’ve put together what we’re going to be paving as far as when that rotary project is done, Elm Street, Green Street, Pearl Street, and see what it’s going to cost. We’re also thinking about trying to tie in Chestnut Street, if we can afford it. So we are looking at doing that when that project is done.So that transmission line, we’re hoping to get started probably late June to July and get it wrapped up either by fall or spring of next year.” Regarding the James Street Pump Station, “On top of that, we have been verbally told that we have received a grant for the James Street pump station, which is up on top of the hill. That pumps water from the tanks over to the elevated storage tank, which is on the other side of 140, which feeds the elevated system. That plan has only been touched since the 80s, so we’re looking at like a million and a half bucks to upgrade that plant as well. Grant for Summit Pumps: We’re also looking for a grant for the Summit pumps, which is a sewer pump station, which is down in Industrial Park off of Suffolk Lane. We’ve been receiving more and more flow from Ashburnham to the point where the pumps actually need to be upgraded, so we’ve asked for a grant to redo that pump station, which I think is 1989, 1986, somewhere in that year. So hopefully we can get grants for that.” The Director stated that any disruptions to service would be several hours when they do that. Regarding a possible Wastewater Plant upgrade, “The other thing we’re looking at is we have to do another upgrade at the wastewater plant, which we have, again, been talking about for years. We’re working on a scope and a project cost. We’re looking at the sewer rates and what we can afford, and it’s somewhere in the $4 million range that we can afford to do down there. A lot of the mechanisms on the tanks, those large tanks.”

DPW Director Dane Arnold also spoke of progress with the Disc Golf Course going up off of Leo Drive. He spoke of the planter built twice at Monument Park – the first one lasted 16 hours before a motor vehicle had an accident and drove right through it. “Fortunately, no one was up there working on it at the time.” The whole thing was built again the next day.

City Engineer Rob Oliva reported that the Uptown Rotary Project is slated to start back up in the middle of April with a fall finish date. Regarding the Sludge Landfill Project: “The sludge landfill project, we’re still moving forward with that. Our consultant is still working on it. We recently met with a consultant and state officials from DEP and the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs regarding our upcoming submittal to MEPA for our draft environmental impact report. As part of that, they recommended we have some public outreach, so there was some discussion on how to do that and what would work. So our consultant’s putting together a plan for our public outreach to have MEPA review and say, yes, this is what we’re looking for. So we’ll keep you updated on that. At some point, we’ll have some sort of public meeting to discuss the project.” Regarding Flood Control, ” South Gardner Flood Control Project sees an annual inspection from the Army Corps of Engineers. They’re coming April 3rd to do that, so I’ll go out with them. We drive to all the sites. They do their inspections and produce a report every year.”

Conservation Agent Doug Dillon reported on the dam, ” At one of my meetings, I had received some concerns from the commission members, you know, regarding the condition of the dam, so I reached out to the Office of Dam Safety and they sent out an engineer to view the area, you know, as far as the rain this month. They noted no change in condition from the last report, which I think was April, May of 23. So, you know, for the time being, it’s stable, I guess.” On the North Central Trail Connector, “which is going to be running, you know, along Crystal Lake and connecting to the old rail bed. Some of the concerns that I have with that was the wetland area crossing with a culvert that holds a wetland replication area. And I’ve been working with the applicant, which is the city, and their consultant, Ty Vaughn, to hopefully, you know, create a resilient and worthy project of, you know, the funds it’s receiving and the people that will be using it.” Dillon indicated it would be a pretty substantial project as it will be 10 to 12 feet wide with an additional 5 feet cleared out at the sides.
Homeless Help (3/25/2024)

Report: Research Finds at Least 4 Successful Examples of Tiny House Villages for Homeless

The Concept is to provide a small shelter to a homeless person with other needed services on-site. There might be 20 or more such tiny shelters on the same parcel of land. We found 4 successful examples from Oregon, Washington, and Texas – links are included below. With appropriate zoning, this could be done on City or town-owned property of as little as 1 acre in size which could be leased to a non-profit for a nominal $1 a year. In the links below, you will be able to read in detail about what has worked, what associated services are provided to help with some of the challenges the homeless face, and what details are involved. The pending MA housing bill and other grant opportunities might provide startup funding.

Square One Villages —- Community First —- Quixotec Communities —- Dignity Village.
Tassone 3-24-24 (3/24/2024)

Listen to the Complete Interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Councilor Paul Tassone 3-24-24

Gardner’s No Nonsense Councilor Is “No Boloney Tassone“

We spoke with Gardner MA City Councilor Paul Tassone on March 24, 2023 and again on March 24, 2024. We’re calling our conversation, the “No Boloney Tassone” Interview. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Paul Tassone Interview 3-24-24

The Councilor filled an unexpired term and is now serving a full 2 year term after being re-elected in November 2023. We asked about improvements in the past year and Tassone responded, “We’ve done quite a bit of infrastructure work with the roads and sidewalks. And coming this summer, we’ll be doing more work both on Reagan, Moran, and I believe Greenwood. And there’s several other streets that we’ll be working on.”

Councilor Tassone is earning the trust of his ward through some hard work. “I’ve had the honor of speaking with many of the residents in Ward 3, whether it be about trees being dead or being removed on their particular street or whether or not, they’re having issues from a property perspective. I’ve made house visits. I’ve listened to what people had to say. Anytime someone gives me a call on the phone, I answer the call. And I’m always good to follow up and follow through.”

No Boloney: Tassone stated he’s had fairly good success in working with City Departments including DPW, Building, or Health. “I am a straight shooter, Werner, 100%. What comes out of my mouth is I’m going to come straight at it and I’m going to get to the bottom of it.” We asked, “Is that why some constituents are calling you No Boloney Tassone?” and the Councilor said, ” I love it, from time to time, I guess that’s OK.”

Tassone complimented the Mayor on his transparency. He understands why a new salt shed was needed, but wants the City Council to do its due diligence to get the money back in to the stabilization account. Tassone also complimented the City Council President on the job she does.

Regarding Downtown Gardner: “It’s very easy to drive through the downtown and see the major improvements that we’ve done to our downtown and much more to come with rear Main Street as well. Businesses continue to open up housing, rental housing available in the downtown area. More prevalent now than in years past. Millions of dollars have been spent in our downtown to improve the look, the feel, and the overall community, to be quite honest with you, I’m proud of what I see moving forward and moving in the downtown area.”

Tassone had much more to say which you can hear in the complete AUDIO of the interview above. He concluded, “I would just say I appreciate my constituents in Ward 3 having confidence in me, and voting me in for two more years this past November. I do appreciate that. I’m going to continue to work hard, and we’ll continue to see Gardner improve over the next year. I’m sure we’ll talk before then, Werner, but I think we will have even more exciting things happening in the next year, for sure.”
The Pumps (3/20/2024)

DPW Dane Arnold on the Main water line to be replaced – first installed 136 years ago!

Main Water Pipe Project to Start After Bids Opened, Pumps Next

Gardner MA DPW Director Dane Arnold provided us with more detail on the badly needed $1 million main water line. “We open the Bid today at 1: pm. It will consist of a new 16” Cement Lined Ductile Iron Pipe to run from Crystal Lake Treatment Facility up to the Tanks up on Reservoir Hill. This line will replace a 16” line that was installed in 1888 and a portion in 1903! Construction should commence this summer and be completed by spring 2025. The City applied for and received $1 million in Grant Funds. Any additional funds to offset the cost of the project will need to come from the Water Enterprise Fund which I would need Mayor and Council approval for once we know the bid cost of the project.” Recently, the City of Gardner was also awarded a grant for new pumps at James Street – over $900k.

Arnold says he has really enjoyed working for the City of Gardner for almost 23 years: “and think we have accomplished a lot, but more is to come. I couldn’t do any of it without the great crew we have at the DPW. They are the best in the State, and I mean every word of that. They are the most dedicated and committed group and I am blessed to work with them every day. From the foremen, the crew, and the clerical staff , Gardner is very lucky to have them and so am I.”

Path of Main Water Line from Crystal Lake Treatment Facility to the Tanks on Reservoir Hill
Bombaci 3-18-24 (3/18/2024)

25 Main Street, Gardner in September 2022

Progress in Downtown Gardner – Interview with Jon Bombaci on March 18, 2024

We had the honor of speaking with Jon Bombaci of Candor Realty on March 18, 2024. The reason was some big news happening in the Bull Nose Building at 25 Main Street, the arrival this summer or fall of a brand new Coffee Shop, Restaurant, and Bakery. It will be the third location for Brilla who currently operate in Holden and Northborough. The spot will be about 3500 – 4000 square feet upon completion is planned to be by October or sooner. Listen to the complete interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Bombaci stated, “They’re a great, great established coffee shop, but they’re going to be launching a full-scale restaurant in the building, complete with a whole bunch of other things that they’re experimenting with down in their Holden location. So we’re excited…. so I think they’re going to go from breakfast all the way through dinner. They’re planning to serve alcohol. They’re planning to kind of be open for whatever it is you want, and having a changing menu from breakfast, lunch, to dinner. They’re already experimenting with this in Holden, and they found some success at it, and so we’re kind of looking forward to helping them launch full service, three meals a day type of a space.”

Other plans for the 25 Main Street building include setting aside 800 square feet for Candor Realty offices. The second and third floor are going to be apartments with a total of 14 units of mostly two bedroom units. Press Release from Candor Realty regarding Brilla.

The Garbose Building

Bombaci spoke about progress on the building. “ We’re working on a couple of leases, but should have announcement over a business moving into what is 8 Parker. That will kind of complete the ground floor. Upstairs, the framing is going on, but we’re kind of at a little bit of a stop where the buildings require a tremendous amount of electricity, which makes sense. And so the holdup at the moment is we’re working with National Grid on sourcing power.” The issue is that with using more electricity to heat and cool, National Grid needs to provide a new transformer. There’s actually a shortage of transformers nationwide which is holding up building. Aside from rough framing and inspections, they will wait “until we can get a firm timeline from National Grid on when we’ll be able to energize the building.” We found an excellent article from Builder on this Nationwide issue, CLICK HERE. Apparently, the shortage of transformers has even slowed down the completion of single family homes.

Other Buildings

82-84 Main Street, a vacant commercial building. “There’s two spaces there that we’re working on filling, and then there’s a basement with a walkout to the back, which is kind of cool.” 88 Main Street is where they have their current offices. Work was wrapped up in 2023 at 104 Parker Street where the Buffer Zone hair salon is.

Real Estate Forecast

Jon Bombaci was very honest in that it is hard to predict the direction of the Real Estate market, but “The real estate market in 2024 is ramping up…There’s a lot of people out looking at houses. The buyer demand is there. Rates haven’t come down yet. So that’s kind of kept people in check a little bit.”

Mission of the Company

Jon Bombaci spoke about his company: “Historically, what our focus is value-add multifamily. We like buying two to 50-unit type buildings, fixing some operational problems, increasing the building, make them safer, update them, make them more comfortable for everybody, and then either pass them off to our investors or refinance them and do those types of things. We have a full service team where we do in-house construction, we do in-house property management, and we’re getting to the point that we’re offering those services to other people. So we’ve historically only helped our clients, but now we’re kind of getting to the point that we can help people we don’t know. And so part of our goal is, you know, our mission is to help people reach financial independence to real estate.” Candor Realty website, CLICK HERE.
Lore Exhibit (3/11/2024)

Visit Artist Mark Lore’s Website, CLICK HERE.

Landscape Artist Mark Lore Comes to Gardner Museum in Gardner MA

For 5 decades, local artist Mark Lore has created art. On March 10, 2024 he greeted visitors to the Gardner Museum to open a featured exhibit of his work which will be on display through May 26^th.

Gardner Museum posted, “How lovely it was to open the museum back up after our winter break! We called and many people came: Our first event this season, the opening reception for our spring exhibit, was a huge success. Don’t miss Mark Lore‘s wonderful solo-exhibit! It is open during our regular hours until May 26.” Previous Article

At Mark Lore’s website, CLICK HERE, the artist showcases original oil and acrylic works, canvas prints, drawings, murals, note cards, and greeting cards.

The Gardner Museum has an active year planned. 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 opened for the season on March 1, 2024. An annual membership is: Student -$1, Individual -$20, or Family $30.
Welfare 3-7-24 (3/8/2024)

Gardner Public Welfare Committee with “Round 2” on March 7, 2024

The Public Welfare Committee met for a second time on March 7, 2024 to heard from Airport Manager Isabelle Davis, Bill Franklin on behalf of the Golf Course, and Human Resources Director Debra Pond provide a written update which Chair Judy Mack read for the meeting and the public. Disability Commission did send an update. The Historical Commission did not respond again to Mack’s request for them to appear before the committee. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Welfare 3-7-24

The Airport Commission met separately on March 6, 2024. Listen to that hour long meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY

Airport Commission 3-6-24
Week 3-3-24 (3/3/2024)

Gardner MAgazine THIS WEEK – March 3, 2024 with the “Chair Man”

Charles Henry Allen Irwin Rogers, the “Chair Man”. voices Gardner MAgazine This week. In this periodic AUDIO magazine, you’ll hear about various events in the City of Gardner and the surrounding area. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

This Week March 3, 2024

More information about the news stories mentioned and links to further resources can be found in various articles on our home page.

Thank you for listening to Gardner Magazine This week. If you hear of news you think we should cover, please email News@GardnerMagazine.com
Planning 2-20-24 (2/22/2024)

Final Recommendations YES on Sports Betting and Marijuana Zoning Articles

The Gardner MA Planning Board is sending a final recommendation of YES for both zoning articles: adding Sports Betting to the table of uses, and allowing additional cannabis dispensaries in Gardner. Next step: City Council will approve or reject the changes at its next meeting.

Other Items: Private Oversight LLC was continued to next month. The public meeting regarding the definitive site plan of Rear Main Street off Derby Drive was discussed – the Rear Main Street Development Project. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Planning Board 2-20-24
Zoning 2-20-24 (2/22/2024)

Previous Articles with meeting AUDIO on this matter:

Planning Board October 10, 2023

Planning Board November 14, 2023

In December, Private Oversight LLC requested an extension to the January meeting.

Planning Board January 9, 2024

The Planning Board met on February 20, 2024 and put the matter on the next month’s calendar.

Multi Family Proposed Project Facing Abutter Opposition

Private Oversight, LLC is proposing to build a project of 52 units of Multi family housing, 42 in Gardner, and 10 in Templeton. Attorney for the proponent, Christine Tree indicated that a Planning Board decision on the site plan is being sought first. Chairman Lafond agreed that resolving any Planning Board issues would make sense so there are no conflicts between boards. “We will wait for the Planning Board to go through their site plan review.” However, even after that was stated, various opposing abutters wanted to be heard and were heard. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Zoning Board of Appeals 2-20-24

Various abutters oppose the project. One reason is a general opposition to having multi-family housing in a single family area. Another reason concerned the potential for the project to affect drainage. According to one abutter opposed to the project, another developer who clear cut land in the same area on the Templeton side caused drainage issues for abutters. At the meeting, the attorney for Private Oversight LLC offered to email project plan details to abutters if desired.

The Board voted to take up the matter again at its April 16, 2024 meeting.
Ashburnham Master Plan (2/16/2024)

Ashburnham MA Working on Master Plan

As shown by these photos we took on February 15, 2024, the town of Ashburnham is a beautiful community. However, it is planning for its future in a big way. The Town of Ashburnham MA is working on its Master Plan. It has published a worksheet which asks interested citizens to “Please list any important needs, goals, or objectives that will define the future you want for Ashburnham (for each chapter of the Master Plan) PRINTABLE PDF.

Categories are: Services & Facilities, Circulation (Roadways and Transportation), Economic Development, Natural & Cultural Resources, Housing & Housing Production Plan, Land Use, and Open Space & Recreation.

The Town of Ashburnham Released the 2022 Raw Data in a 147 page pdf, CLICK HERE.

Here are pdfs of chapters being considered: Transportation —- Economic Development —- Services and Facilities —- Historical and Cultural —- Natural Resources —- Land Use — Master Plan Strategy
Housing – Augustus (2/14/2024)

A Concept of a Tiny Village for the Homeless

Secretary Ed Augustus Reflects Proactively on Housing in Massachusetts and Greater Gardner MA

Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel spoke with Ed Augustus, Secretary for Housing and Livable Communities for the State of Massachusetts. We spoke about housing issues including the proposed Affordable Homes Act. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Interview with Secretary Ed Augustus

Secretary Augustus explained that Massachusetts is the only state with a large portfolio of state-owned public housing, over 43,000 units. The bill would fund much needed updates to roofs, windows, heating systems etc. to “make those units attractive, healthy, and really dignified.” The bill has several components intended to increase the amount of affordable housing in the state.

We spoke about the possibility of Tiny Houses for the homeless, accessory dwelling units, affordable housing, and even touched on how the reality of Climate Change will affect building in the future because it’s “not, you know, 100 years off, it is in front of us today, and we need to act with some sense of urgency.” He also stated, “Governor Healey has appointed the first climate chief in the country, and she’s been very focused on, you know, really putting together some new policies and plans to make sure that we’re really thinking about how to build redundant resiliency into projects that we’re funding.”

The Secretary explained Accessory Dwelling Units (ACUs) which would be allowed by right. “Accessory Dwelling Units can be a number of things. They could be a space above a garage, they could be a walkout basement, they could be an attic, or they could be a standalone building if you have a big enough, you know, plot of land that your home sits on or a tiny home. And this, we think, is a very, you know, quick way to create a large number of units. We estimate that just that policy change alone could create between 8 and 10,000 units over the first five years across Massachusetts. And the good news about that is it’s no cost to the Commonwealth. Those are costs that individual property owners, if they decided to build one of these ADUs, would take on themselves.“

It’s Possible: Gardner Could Have First Tiny House Village for Homeless in MA

According to the Secretary, the City of Gardner could allow a Tiny House village for the homeless with a Zoning Change and it might actually get grant funding, “You know, we’d have to look at the proposal and see how it fits, but we do have various parts of funding that do support everything from supportive housing for formerly homeless individuals that can be part of the solution to ending homelessness in a particular community. And we do have pots of money that could be available to fund those types of things. So I think it’s plausible. We haven’t seen something yet anywhere in Massachusetts along those lines, so we’d have to look at the particulars. But I think at a high level, the theory of a tiny homes village that is designed to meet the needs of the homeless population of the area, you know, would be something that potentially could receive some funding from existing programs that we have.”

Significant Praise for the City of Gardner and its Shared Vision

Secretary Augustus was impressed on his last visit to the City of Gardner stating in this interview, “Everybody was kind of coordinated and pulling in the same direction. Just my experience from Worcester, I know what a difference that makes. If everybody’s got a shared vision, moving in the same direction, it makes it so much easier to get things done. The mayor has really crafted that strategy, and he showed me, I think it was six or seven different projects that they had in the pipeline that they were hoping to get funded over the next couple of years to bring more housing of different types to Gardner. So I was just impressed. They knew what they wanted to do. They knew where they wanted to do it.They knew what programs that they needed to take advantage of for that, and they were very proactive in asking me to come out and educate myself about what their plan was and how we could help. I think having a plan, working together as a cohesive unit, and then really bringing in all the partners that you need to make it happen, and Gardner’s checked all those boxes.”
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
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.
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.
Westminster Newsletter (1/29/2024)

Town of Westminster with a First Edition

The Town of Westminster MA has announced the First Edition of a newsletter to keep residents better informed. Volume 1 is 10 pages long, CLICK HERE for pdf. Community Services Director Audra Kirtland wrote, “We invite you to be an active part of this journey; to share your stories, milestones, achievements, and thoughts. Let’s work together to make this newsletter a place to come for insight and information.” It is a source of a huge amount of information.
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.
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
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 10^th from 1 to 4pm. The exhibit of Mark Lore will run until May 26^th 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 7^th until August 25^th 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 6^th 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.
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.
Airport 1-3-24 (1/4/2024)

Master Plan Draft Chapters 1-3

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.”
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.
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
El Coqui (12/26/2023)

Downtown Gardner Gets More Delicious with El Coqui Market

El Coqui Latin Food Store has opened at 2 Parker Street in Downtown Gardner. The store opens at 8am daily, most nights til 8pm. Friday nights the store stays open all night.

El Coqui is located in the iconic corner location of the historic Garbose Building which has been undergoing renovations. Apartments will be located in the upper floors of the building.

Gardner Magazine will advise you about the details of El Coqui offerings as they become available. In the meantime, check them out and enjoy!
Service 12-15-23 (12/18/2023)

The Public Service Committee is sending correspondence to the Mayor with a copy to the Human Resource Director asking they “do all they can do to supplement the workforce of the Highway Department in response to the employment challenges that the City is currently facing for the winter of 2023-24.”

Dane Arnold speaks of Staffing Issues at Public Service Committee

DPW Director Dane Arnold, City Engineer Rob Oliva, and Development and Planning Director Trevor Beauregard spoke to the Public Service Committee on December 15, 2023. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY

Public Service Committee – 12-15-23

Committee Chair and Outgoing Councilor James Walsh received a “Walsh’s Walk, It’s not his Fault, It’s Asphalt” sign from Dane Arnold of DPW as a parting gift.

Dane Arnold spoke about the letter he wrote to the Mayor and City Council in November stating, “just trying to give the Mayor and City Council a heads up as well as trying to get it out there for the residents that this winter we might not be as, the streets might not be plowed as quick as they have in the past. We are currently short on the highway side, 7 employees out of 25 positions.” And there’s also 2 retirees” In answering a question from Councilor Walsh, Arnold explained that “part of the issue is if they open up to the DPW contract to negotiate it, there’s a reopening clause in every contract throughout the City. So you know, if someone’s getting a piece of the pie, it’s going to have to go around through all the other departments as well.” He did say that the contractor rate had been bumped up to $95 per hour, “but we still haven’t gotten any responses from contractors.” Arnold explained that the City at one time had 14 contractors, then 4, and now, none. He stated that the Police Department has offered to plow their lots themselves if the City parks a vehicle there. Director Arnold offered other updates as well.

Engineer Rob Oliva spoke of the Disc Golf Course going up at the park on Leo Drive – two individuals are volunteering to come up with a layout for the course. There’s some action on the Wayside Dam Project, consultant is filing some environmental forms this week. “And then the other thing, which is kind of big news, is we had applied for a Safe Streets for All Grant…I just got the email saying it was awarded…That’s a $230,000 grant to develop the citywide plan.” Grant has a 20 percent match required by the City. As far as the Sludge Landfill, “we’ll be setting up some public outreach meetings as part of what the MEPA is requiring.” And as far as the Uptown Rotary Project, it’s buttoned up for the winter, will resume in the spring, and Fall 2024 completion “is still in the works.”

Director Trevor Beauregard spoke of the salary study saying, “We all anxiously await its distribution and implementation so that we can catch up in various parts of the City, I think.” He spoke of various projects including Maki Park which will have 3 tiers and will bring in electricity so that there can be EV charging at the adjacent parking lot. He spoke of Phase 4 of the Downtown Improvements. The Pedestrian-Bike bridge over 140 is “in the 25% to 30% design phase range.”
MART Free (12/13/2023)

Previous article on Mayor Nicholson being reelected as M.A.R.T. Board Chair, CLICK HERE.

State Grant Means 6 Months FREE M.A.R.T Rides

Passengers in the of the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority service area will enjoy 6 months of FREE fares from January 1 to June 30, 2024.

This is what M.A.R.T. posted: “Try MART Transit for FREE into the New Year and Beyond! We are excited to introduce this fare-free service for the first half of 2024. Stay tuned for more messages and updates for all of our services!” For M.A.R.T. schedules and maps, visit this webpage, CLICK HERE.

Here are the years member communities became members of M.A.R.T. — Ashburnham: 1980, Ashby: 1986, Athol: 2013, Barre: 2021, Gardner: 1978, Hardwick: 1988, Hubbardston: 1983, Phillipston: 2022, Royalston: 1984, Templeton: 1985, Westminster: 1986, and Winchendon: 1985. Headquarters are in Fitchburg and Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson was reelected to another year as Board Chair. Other member communities include Ayer, Bolton, Boxborough, Fitchburg, Harvard, Lancaster, Leominster, Littleton, Lunenburg, Shirley, Sterling, and Stow.
Airport 12-6-23 (12/5/2023)

Airport Commission Meeting at Gardner Municipal Airport

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 5pm – OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Airport Commission 12-6-23

Gale Associates Inc. will provide an update on the Runway project and the Master Plan. The Airport Manager will give her report including Aircraft ownership on ramp and the Pilot Lounge Project.

Airport Renovations began in September 2023 (previous story) with millions in Federal and State funding. This is the first major makeover in 50 years. The Airport Master Plan will have public input and will help shape the future of the Gardner Airport for the decades to come.

The Airport recently got internet service via Starlink satellite internet. Eventually, an airport coffee shop or cafe may be in the offing.

The next meeting is planned for Wednesday, January 3, 2024.
Thanks Week (11/20/2023)

Email info on your event to News@GardnerMagazine.com

Thanksgiving Week Events in Greater Gardner MA – Something for Everyone

Early week – Take care of City or town business early as most offices will close early on Wednesday and will be closed Thanksgiving Thursday and on Black Friday.

Friday, November 24th – Area businesses welcome shoppers for traditional start of Christmas shopping season. —- The 2nd Annual Winter Festival begins at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston with more than 200,000 lights throughout the orchard. —- The Gardner Museum will be open from 1 to 7pm as it continues the 18th Annual Festival of Trees. —- The GAAMHA Christmas Tree Lot will be open from 3 to 7pm.

Saturday, November 25th – Small Business Saturday in Downtown Gardner. —- The VFW in Westminster is having a Holiday Craft Fair from 9am to 1pm — There will be a Santa Claus Parade in Downtown Athol at 4:15pm.

Sunday, November 26th – The Farm at Evergreen Grove in Gardner has Pictures with Santa from 1-3pm. —- Gardner has the Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting at 4pm. —- Hubbardston has its Tree Lighting Ceremony from 5-5:30pm.

More details on these and other upcoming Holiday events on our Holidays 2023 page, CLICK HERE.
Tax Classification (11/18/2023)

Tax Classification to be decided at Gardner MA City Council Meeting on November 20, 2023

As part of the November 20th meeting, there will be a Tax Classification Hearing – There is further related information in the complete packet of 555 pages, CLICK HERE. The City has traditionally utilized a single tax rate where business, industrial, residential, and land are taxed at the same rate. This encourages business. However, in recent years, the value of residential property has gone up more than business and industrial and therefore, by default, the burden has shifted somewhat to residential. The tax rate is projected to be under $15 per thousand, the lowest in over a decade. However, a tax rate generally goes down if property values rise considerably, which is the case in Gardner MA.

Residential as a percentage of total value 10 years ago in 2013 was 82%. 5 years later in 2018 it was 79%. It has gradually risen since then to just under 84%. However, Gardner has recently had an upswing in business renovating existing structures, greatly increasing value now and more in the future as projects are completed and others are commenced. However, for fiscal year 2024, the state mandates a look back to a couple of years ago. Therefore, the City won’t see the complete help the influx of business will have to residential tax bills until things catch up.

According to Mayor Michael Nicholson, “The City has made large strides in our economic development goals in recent years, and we are starting to see a very strong return on our investments in these endeavors. The Administration supports the recommendation of the Board of Assessors by continuing with a single tax rate…”
Ovila Future (11/18/2023)

The Future of the Ovila Case Fantasy Playground in Gardner MA

It was originally constructed by volunteers many years ago and then fell became a safety hazard and was torn down. Our graphic shows the Fantasy Playground in 2022, the site after the structure was removed in 2023, and a Concept Illustration of the new playground, slated for possible installation by the summer of 2024.

The Gardner City Council will take up the matter at its next meeting of November 20, 2023. The Mayor’s proposal for playground replacement was recommended for approval by the Finance Committee on November 15, 2023. It calls for an expenditure of $156,420 by the City of Gardner towards the full project cost of $521,400. The City of Gardner applied for a grant of $364,980 which would cover the remaining 70% of the cost if awarded.

The Mayor is asking for the matching funds to be approved upfront to allow the City to go to bid on the project once the funds are awarded. That way according to Mayor Nicholson, “We can get the construction portion of the project done in early spring so it can be completed by summer time for children to be able to used the new equipment. “ Should the grant not be awarded, the Mayor would put a rescission measure forward to the City Council so the City funds could be used for other purposes.
Winter 23-24 (11/9/2023)

Get detailed Weather Information anytime 24/7 at our Greater Gardner Weather Center.

Prediction: Greater Gardner MA Could Have Warmer Winter

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, there’s an even chance the Greater Gardner area could have warmer than normal weather this winter. From NOAA “El Nino is in place heading into winter for the first time in four years, driving the outlook for warmer-than-average temperatures.” In addition, NOAA predicts drier-than-average conditions in the Northern Tier of the U.S. The Greater Gardner area has about equal chances of having normal amounts of precipitation where other nearby parts of Massachusetts and South are forecast to have above normal seasonal precipitation. As far as drought, there is no drought predicted for the near future in Greater Gardner MA.

New this year: The Experimental Probabilistic Winter Storm Severity Index. It is an interactive map which attempts to show potential winter storm impacts ranging from minor, moderate, major, and extreme. The terms are defined on the page, CLICK HERE.

Also very interesting is the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center. It is also very interactive, CLICK HERE.

Outlook Maps: Seasonal Temperature – Seasonal Precipitation – Seasonal Drought – CLICK IMAGE for larger view
Dog Drainage (11/4/2023)

We thank Claude Vautour for taking these photos on Saturday, November 4, 2023 as the DPW crew worked on this project.

Puddling Problem at Pulaski Dog Park in Gardner MA Addressed in Big Way

When the Gardner Dog Park was created, most of the drainage issues were addressed in the initial construction. However, challenges persisted. For those who don’t know, the park has higher points of elevation around it. A recent flooding rainstorm in September was helpful in learning what was working and what wasn’t. Turns out that the park which was three quarters flooded the night of the big rain was devoid of most of the water the next morning. – The drainage system mostly worked. But as Dane Arnold stated recently, “the entire park is a low-lying area and the ground is saturated and becomes muddy and causes pooling in some areas.” This work endeavors to solve the remaining issues which have contributed to a troublesome mud puddle.

The Arnold and Oliva Solution

DPW Dane Arnold and City Engineer Rob Oliva often put their heads together to find out-of-the-box solutions and ways to solve tough issues. The Plan: After the excavation and preparation are complete, the plan for the Dog Park is to install a stone trench and perforated pipe from the play area entrance the entire length of the park and tie it into a catch basin on the other side of the park.
Gardner Chronicle (10/29/2023)

Gardner Square Two Inc. reminds area TV viewers of Gardner on TV

Gardner’s Downtown Association, Gardner Square Two Inc. posted, “Exciting News! —- Gardner will be featured on Chronicle in the upcoming episode “Main Streets and Back Roads of the Mohawk Trail” It’s airing on Monday, October 30^th at 7:30pm on WCVB Channel 5. Filming took place 2 weeks ago at The Velvet Goose, The Gardner Museum, The Big Chair, and at other local spots.”

Gardner has been featured on TV before. In June of this year, the Parker House of Pizza was featured on New England Perspectives showcasing various food, and of course, pizza. Click here for that article.

More about Downtown Gardner

For more than 5 pages of Gardner Magazine article listings regarding Downtown Gardner (you can click through to each full article) – CLICK HERE.

For the Gardner Square Two website, CLICK HERE.
Uptown Rotary (10/27/2023)

Work Begins on Uptown Rotary Project in Gardner MA

Cost of the project was projected at $2.6 million in 2020 when proposed and is being covered by grants. EH Perkins Construction is the Massachusetts Department of Transportation contractor handling the up to 18 month project with a completion goal of about a year from now. Purpose is to improve safety of the intersection by creating a better traffic flow. Drainage and utility work is beginning now.

According to Mass DOT, during typical construction operations, all roadways in the project area will remain open to vehicular traffic. Occasional short traffic disruptions and travel lane – shoulder – parking lane closures may occur. Pedestrian and vehicular access to abutting properties will be maintained throughout construction.

Details of the original proposed improvements included the reconstruction of the existing intersection to meet modern roundabout standards and the following:

Central truck apron, central landscape island, splitter islands at approaches, and re-aligned intersection approaches into the intersection • Splitter islands will form entry deflection angles to reduce vehicle speeds, improving pedestrian safety • Resurface the roadway, reset curb lines and modify drainage infrastructure within the project limits • Reconstruct existing sidewalk and install new sidewalk to enhance pedestrian accommodations throughout the project limits • Construct Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) / Architectural Access Board (AAB) compliant accessible sidewalks and curb ramps within the project limits • Stripe new high-visibility ladder-style crosswalks, STOP lines, centerlines, lane lines, gore areas, parking lanes, and shoulder lines within the project limits. • Install new traffic signage
Other Side (10/24/2023)

Gardner City Hall and Orpheum Park

The Other Side of the Tower: One view is the view of Gardner City Hall on Pleasant Street in Gardner with a majestic American Flag flying in the sky. The other view is Orpheum Park with its beautiful fountain and flowers and the same City Hall tower in the background.
Forward Paths (10/24/2023)

The Continued Path to the Future in Gardner MA Is Promising

A More Beautiful Path at Every Turn

Celebrating the Past to Meet the Future

A Changing Landscape in the Chair City

The Promise of What is to Come – the Rear Main Street Project promises residential, commercial, and more when complete.
South Gardner (10/24/2023)

Attention: South Gardner MA Has a Face Lift in its Future

In the last couple of years, efforts have been made to give added importance to South Gardner. In this view are upgraded streetlights and beautiful flower pots. Gardner Mayor Nicholson has proposed am ambitious project to remove all of the overhead electrical lines and move service underground, like a typical Downtown. Discussions have been held as to what grant funding might be available for such an endeavor.
The Picture (10/15/2023)

Complete Gallery including Park Street Park and views from across Crystal Lake, CLICK HERE

One Gardner Picture Says It All

Taken from across Crystal Lake, photo shows Park Street Park, Monument Park with wide sidewalks, upgraded lighting, Street signs, Street safety, Faith-based building showcasing American Flag, and people out for a stroll.

There’s some seating upgrades at Monument Park if you look close enough. Picnic tables, and even classy-looking trash receptacles.

A tribute to what’s great about the Chair City of Gardner MA. One Picture Says It All… Gallery
Gem – City (10/4/2023)

20% of Gardner Roads Paved in last 3 years. This is Eaton Street.

Gardner MA and its Journey to Becoming a Gem of a City

In the last few years, the City of Gardner has been making incremental, but significant progress towards becoming a Gem of a City. Beautiful parks and recreation areas, entire buildings being transformed, new businesses opening, and ongoing construction. Here’s a view from October 4, 2023.

1. Park Street Park off Park Street was an electric substation with a barbed wire fence. Now, it’s a beautiful and popular recreation site.

2. The 25 Main Street Building has undergone major interior and exterior work in the last year and has been transformed. More improvements are currently being made. We’re showing some being made to the rear of the building where there is parking. There’s talk of a new restaurant called “the Vault” which may open on the first floor.

3. The Old Wheelen Supply Warehouse on Main Street will soon be Golf Rx. The building looks beautiful on the outside and construction equipment was still being used inside.

4. The Garbose Building already has beautiful new windows, which were made locally,by SWS, a division of Maki’s in Gardner. A man was up in the air sprucing up the trim on the outside of the building.

5. The Empire Management Building is getting a whole new look on the outside. Work is ongoing.

6. No more windows at the old Stop and Shop as construction is fully underway to get ready for the opening of Aldi, a grocery store, by the end of this year or beginning of next year.

7. The grade is visible at the site of the future Maki Park. There will be 3 tiers for the public to use. The reason for tiering the site is because the current pitch is not ADA compliant.

8. Orpheum Park has flowers in bloom and a beautiful fountain. It is located on Parker Street.

9. The Rear Main Street Project has yet to get underway. But a photo of the street in a distance view shows an already beautiful sidewalk with flowers and attractive lamp posts. The project will consist of multiple floors of residential housing, commercial space, a food truck parking area, and perhaps even a rooftop restaurant.

This is just a small sampling of Gardner’s journey to becoming a Gem of a City. Right now, it’s a polished gemstone in some places and a jewel in the rough in others.
Bailey Brook (9/29/2023)

Original photos taken by Claude Vautour

Bailey Brook Park in Gardner MA another Chair City Amenity

In our recent interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson he stated, “The Bailey Brook Park also is home to our new age 5 and under playground. That’s the first playground that’s meant for infant to 5 year old ….at Bailey Brook Park, we now have pickleball courts. That’s the first time the cities had pickleball options available, something other than basketball.”

According to the City of Gardner, “Bailey Brook Park & Conservation Area is a 121 acre site located off Leo Drive. The City submitted a PARC grant application in FY20 to design and develop an open space, multipurpose park and conduct site work associated with site access driveways, parking, construction of an ADA accessible trail, and 1-mile, healthy-heart, wellness walking loop trail with a scenic overlook and sitting & resting area. Both trails will include interpretive nature learning signage and other experiential, nature-based learning components. The accessible, ADA compliant trail will also include tactile, sensory, playground equipment elements for nature-based play and learning for children with social-emotional learning and development disabilities.” For more information from the City of Gardner, CLICK HERE.
The Conductor (9/28/2023)

Gardner Mayor Nicholson has been called one of America’s most effective Small City Mayors, even being invited to the White House to speak about Gardner’s success. We asked him about everything in detail.

We came away from the interview realizing that it was hard to document all that has been accomplished in Gardner in 3 years and that Mayor Nicholson still has the energy and desire to do even more in the next couple of years.

Complete Interview page with text of all questions and answers, CLICK HERE.

The Conductor – The Serious Business of Government in Gardner Massachusetts – An Interview with Mayor Michael Nicholson

We had the honor of speaking with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with an in-depth interview concerning his time in office so far. It showcases the serious business of government and it reveals exactly what has been achieved and what it takes to lead a small City like Gardner. And, it reveals Mayor Nicholson’s vision of Gardner’s positive future trajectory. Listen to the interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

The Conductor – Mayor Michael Nicholson 9-26-23

We asked the Mayor about: 3 perfect Federal Audits — New Businesses —- Going after Junky Buildings — Public Safety Improvements —- Impactful People Policies — Enviro Champ — Respecting Taxpayers — Improving Education — Being tested as a leader — Delegating while remaining in the know — Getting Gardner noticed — Blight to Promise — Increase in Amenities — Company Success — Housing Needs — Setting transparency standard — Parks and Recreation — As the Conductor — Projects in the Works —- 2 dozen areas where there’s MORE of a good thing — A dozen areas where’s there LESS of a bad thing — Live Music — Continuing Momentum — Future Business — Continuing Efforts on behalf of Gardner Citizens. Complete Interview page with text of all questions and answers, CLICK HERE.
Airport Master (9/21/2023)

Future of Gardner MA Municipal Airport

5 Years after Gardner became a City, the Gardner Municipal Airport was dedicated on November 17, 1928. The airport is actually located in the town of Templeton with the land owned by the City of Gardner. Over 2 dozen aircraft are based at Gardner Municipal Airport which is at an elevation of 955 feet. The current runway which is being replaced is 75 feet wide by 3000 feet long.

Listen to the 9-6-23 Gardner Airport Commission Meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

The Gardner Airport Commission met just after Labor Day to discuss various matters including the Master Plan. Construction on the runway replacement began on August 14, 2023. Ongoing work includes the removal of existing pavement and basement materials, radiant excavation, electrical dust installation, and demolition and removal of designated materials. Expected completion is on November 11, 2023. The futuristic aircraft depicted is one from the airport’s future, years down the road. $5 million in Federal Funding and $500k in State Funding is being used to pay for the upgrades.

Airport Manager Isabelle Davis went over some details regarding the Master Plan. The Master Plan involves working with the FAA and there is a public participation component in which the public has an opportunity to comment on the master plan as it’s being developed. Draft chapters will be posted online for the public to review as available. First step is preliminary data collection. The FAA will assist in determining what type of aircraft currently use the Airport and help forecast a prediction of future aeronautical activity operations. Davis also went over various grants for which Gardner may be eligible to fund some airport costs, estimating 100k to 150k per year in entitlement funding and other possibilities. The last airport master plan update was in 2008. Last renovations were decades ago.

Other improvements to be considered are what’s needed for the physical facilities over the next 5 to 10 years in addition to the renovations going on now. Some members expressed concern that cell phone service was not good at the airport which makes it difficult to call 911 and the need for City water at the airport.
Parade Held (9/17/2023)

Thank you to Claude Vautour for taking pictures of the parade.

MCs Mike Richard and Patti Bergstrom

Gardner MA Holds Centennial Parade – September 17, 2023

The Gardner Centennial Parade with 72 participants kicked off at 1pm on Sunday, September 17, 2023. The event was broadcast live on radio station WGAW which is heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and live on the internet. Master of Ceremonies was Ed Atter. MCs were Patti Bergstrom and Mike Richard who provided the voices for the broadcast. Highlights included the various floats, antique cars, and the marching bands including the UMASS Minutemen who concluded with a performance at Gardner High School at 3pm.

A recording of the WGAW Live Broadcast may be heard through the radio station home page, CLICK HERE. —– YouTube Video of Parade. —– YouTube Video of performance at GHS of GHS and UMASS Marching Bands.

Gardner was settled in 1764, was incorporated as a town in 1785. Gardner became a City on January 1, 1923 and was 100 years a City on January 1, 2023. A Centennial Committee was established and various events have been held throughout the year to celebrate Gardner’s 100 Years as a City. A winter ball is planned for December.

The parade started out with a number of Public Safety Departments and lots of sirens representing about 10 communities in the region. Patti Bergstrom estimated more than 1000 people were marching in the parade. She read a congratulatory letter from the White House and noted that a celebration flag given by the State is now at City Hall. Mike Richard gave a shout out to the Gardner High School class of 1973 which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Parade itself was about an hour and 15 minutes long.

Complete Photo Gallery – 160+ Photos, CLICK HERE
Airport Underway (9/9/2023)

With New Airport Master Plan in the Works, Gardner Airport Runway Renovations Begin

For the first time in more than 50 years, the Gardner Airport is getting a major makeover. Runway is getting a complete reconstruction. The main building will get substantial renovations. For the future, an Airport Master Plan will be created. With a relatively small amount of local funding, there is $5 million in Federal Funding and $500,000 in State funding.

Per the Press Release, “In December of 2021, Mayor Nicholson put forward a proposal that was unanimously approved by the City Council to create an Airport Manager position in order to make sure that the operations performed at the Gardner Municipal Airport were being done in the most efficient and effective way possible. Isabelle Davis was hired to fill this role and working with the City’s Airport Commission, has overseen this project at the facility.”

View the entire Press Release in pdf format, CLICK HERE.
SK Mansion Featured (9/4/2023)

S.K. Pierce Haunted Mansion in Gardner MA featured in Yankee

The S.K. Pierce Haunted Victorian Mansion of Gardner MA is featured in the September/October 2023 edition of Yankee Magazine. It is highlighted first in an article about 3 different houses entitled, “Ghost Story” and “how the stately Victorian mansion became the blueprint for haunted houses.” Gardner Magazine found out about this from an online posting by the Mayor of Gardner, Michael Nicholson who frequently posts about businesses, people, and organizations in Gardner.

Article starts on page 26. View an electronic version of the Yankee Magazine here:

The S.K. Pierce Haunted Victorian Mansion has a website, CLICK HERE

City Council 9-5-23 (9/3/2023)

Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

City Council 9-5-23

Gardner MA City Council Regular Meeting 7:30pm on Tuesday September 5, 2023

Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

City Council 9-5-23

Items on the Agenda
Various Appointments by the Mayor – approved
National Grid and Verizon Pole Petitions for Park Street project – Withdrawn at utility request
Waterford Street School order to borrow $550,000 – to be given more time
Communication re Open Space and Recreation Plan – Endorse by City Council
Zoning: Increase # of Marijuana Establishments – Granted more time as item is before Planning Board
Zoning: Route 140 Land Parcels to Commercial – Withdrawn by Councilor Dana Heath and referred to Law Department for further options
Zoning; Add Sports Betting to Table of Uses – Granted more time as item is before Planning Board

In an interview conducted around 5pm on September 1, 2023, Councilor Dana Heath confirmed he would be moving to withdraw the Route 140 Land Parcels item, but would be moving forward with the Marijuana Retail Establishments and Sports Betting items. See other article regarding City Solicitor opinion. See other article regarding Withdrawal of Land Parcels item

Complete packet and agenda click h ere

D.I.F. (9/3/2023)

Informal City Council Meeting on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 Covers District Increment Financing

The districts involved include the Downtown Development District of 142.07 acres and the Mill Street Development district of 56.88 acres. The entire City of Gardner has 14,145 acres of land.

Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Informal City Council 9-5-23

The financing method allows some or all of future property tax revenues from development to be dedicated to support infrastructure, projects, and programs related to economic development. Once DIF expires, all revenues go to general fund. In the proposed plan, the timeline of the DIF Management Plan would be 30 years with a DIF advisory committee made up of the Economic Development Coordinator, Director of Community Development and Planning, Gardner Assessor, a representative from DPW, and the Gardner treasurer or auditor. Important note: It is not a new tax, simply an allocation of existing property taxes. The packet included in the agenda for the meeting includes the DIF presentation and explanation. CLICK HERE.

Parcels Protected (9/1/2023)

Route 140 Parcels Protected Zoning Change

John Flick wrote, “If the Council desires to seek a change in use of these Parcels, then the Law Department recommends that the Council reconsider its referral of the zoning petition to the Planning Board and commence with a PLPA change in use analysis. This will allow the Council to determine the likelihood that a change in use may be approved, and the potential cost to the City of obtaining a change in use. Without this knowledge, any consideration of a change in zoning is simply an academic exercise.”

In consideration of the City Solicitor’s opinion, and after further conversations with him, Councilor Dana Heath will be moving to withdraw the matter at the City Council meeting of Tuesday, September 5, 2023. Dana Heath confirmed to Gardner Magazine at 5pm on September 1, 2023 that he will move to withdraw the petition to change the zoning of the Route 140 parcels. He also stated that he will continue with proposed changes to add to the number of allowed marijuana establishments and to add Sports Betting to the Zoning Table of Uses.

Complete Packets for upcoming Tuesday, September 5, 2023 City Council meetings:

Informal re District Improvement Financing

Regular including various requests and the City Solicitor findings on the parcels as well.

Zoning Change Request Likely to be Withdrawn at Tuesday City Council Meeting – Parcels are “Open Space” – UPDATE – Confirmed.

City Solicitor John Flick wrote, “The evidence in favor of Article 97 protection of the Parcels is unequivocal.”

While the analysis is lengthy and may appear complicated, the conclusions drawn by City Solicitor John Flick regarding the 2 parcels in question are very clear: Read complete opinion in pdf format, CLICK HERE.

John Flick on re 140 Zoning Petition
Involves Parcels M47-22-4 and M47-24-1 – both likely protected under Article 97 – Acreage largely untouched for 100 years and identified as conservation land in City’s Open Space plan for 40+ years. Original intent when reviewing 1937 City Council minutes shows intent to keep as protected. (specifically to protect the city’s drinking water)
Change of zoning classification itself from residential to commercial does not constitute a change in use protected by Article 97
Change of use would apply if Gardner decided to sell, lease, or license the land or develop it for public purposes which results in a change of use from one to another.
Article 97 protection is premised on the doctrine of “Prior Public Use” – in this case, as “protected open space.”
How land is used can only be changed by action in the Massachusetts Legislature and it’s a complicated process involving a 2/3 vote of City Council and a 2/3 vote of both the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives. Includes a requirement to first identify other parcels and /or value which could instead be dedicated to Article 97 uses.
Public Lands Protection Act Analysis should be conducted before any zoning change is considered.

Our reasoning: If for some reason the request were not withdrawn at Tuesday Council meeting, the Planning Board will offer a recommendation at its meeting of September 19, 2023 after hearing from Dana Heath. As it voted to “Not Recommend” the last time around without the knowledge the parcels are protected, it would be expected that a unanimous vote to “Not Recommend” could be anticipated. Then the City Council would have to explain the lack of a withdrawal at an upcoming Public Hearing at which a significant number of people could be anticipated.

Deja Vu: At the Planning Board Meeting of March 22, 2023 and to his credit, Director Trevor Beauregard stated, “that whole area is in the watershed. Just so everybody understands….” Upon being challenged by the Mayor in the meeting who presented a conflicting state map, Mr. Beauregard continued, “Maybe we have different definitions of watershed, but, we have a watershed plan that shows that whole area as watershed.” As it turns out, Mr. Beauregard was correct 6 months ago. Conversation occurs about 23 minutes into this meeting, CLICK HERE

Unscientific Polls (8/28/2023)

Unscientific Polls show support for change to Commercial Zoning is Weak

There are only 273 votes reflected in the chart, so the results need to be treated with extreme caution. However, with just over 32% of the votes supporting a change to commercial for those Route 140 parcels and about 68% favoring to leave them as residential or change to some form of “open space”, more discussion will certainly take place.

The Gardner Planning Board will be meeting again on this issue and 2 other proposed zoning changes (increasing number of marijuana establishments and adding Sports Betting to zoning table) on September 19, 2023. At its short 12 minute August meeting, the Board asked for some legal guidance from the City Law Department and will most likely reveal those opinions at the September meeting. Once the Planning Board gives its preliminary recommendations, a joint public hearing with the Gardner City Council will be held at a date to be announced. Citizens will most likely be allowed to speak up to 3 minutes each in favor of or in opposition. Matters will then be sent back to the Planning Board for final recommendations. City Council then votes on the matters.
Simple Polls (8/26/2023)

Polls underway on 2 Gardner MA Facebook Groups Regarding Route 140 Zoning

In an effort to find out what people really think and to cut through all the info clutter, I have 2 polls underway thanks to the graciousness of 2 Gardner Facebook Groups: Gardner MA: Uncensored, and Gardner, Ma – #1 What’s going on Page! We will report results when a significant number of votes come in.

Simple Poll 1: 2 Parcels on Route 140 should be: Left as residential —– Changed to commercial —- changed to some wording of “open space”

Simple Poll 2: In Favor of Racetrack —- Opposed to Racetrack

Publisher’s Note: It’s always a great thing when the public makes its voices known to their elected officials. It informs their decisions in a positive way. To reach the Mayor’s office or any City Councilor via email, just visit the City of Gardner website at Gardner-MA.gov where they are all listed.

Poll Update Results as of August 27, 2023 Noon Vary Considerably Between Groups

Results Vary Considerably

Out of 99 votes in the Gardner MA: Uncensored Facebook group as of noon August 27, 2023, 49% favored change to commercial, 51% Residential or Open Space.

Out of 122 votes in the Gardner, Ma – #1 What’s Going on Page! as of noon on August 27, 2023, 24% favored change to commercial, 76% Residential or Open Space.

These votes were made from about 10pm on August 26, 2023 to noon on August 27, 2023. A simple poll regarding In Favor or Opposed to Racetrack drew much less interest. Note that on any given day, only 12% of people go to Facebook. Therefore, the percentage of an individual group’s membership going to a Group’s page on any given day is somewhere in the ballpark of 3%. That is why when something seems very popular locally, it may get 300 or so likes. In contrast, the internet is used by 85% of the public on any given day and 92% listen to the radio every week. Note: Paid advertising on GardnerMagazine.com and/or on local WGAW Radio is a great way to reach many more people and get much more measurable increases in brick and mortar traffic and traffic to a business website.

Considerable Interest in The Zoning and/or Racetrack Issue on Gardner Magazine

Up to August 26, 2023: Just over 20,200 unique circulation so far this month. Interview with Carolyn Kamuda has had 9,382 listens which is a record on Gardner Magazine. Also a record, Mayor Nicholson’s Update of 8-11-23 has had 7,013 listens with an additional 2,431 listens to a separate file featuring just the Zoning Clarification portion of the update. The Bay State Racing interview has had 2,138 listens. Gardner City Council meetings of August 7, 2023: Informal – 3,087 listens, regular – 3,136 listens.
Flowers (8/23/2023)

Editorial: The Gardner Magazine Zoning Plan – It’s a Blooming Nutty Idea

OK, so everyone is talking about zoning for the parcels on Route 140 in Gardner MA. So we’re throwing out another idea, rather nutty, and I’m the one who thought of it.

Zone the parcels as “Beautiful Flowers Only” – Get the most beautiful flowers from everywhere in the country and plant them there. It will drive tourism to Gardner and what a beautiful sight for hikers.

Do you and 9 other citizens have a better idea as to how these parcels should be zoned? Well, make a request to the Gardner City Council and the Planning Board will then have to consider it.
Electric Update (8/22/2023)

National Grid to Update over 100 Year-Old Transmission Lines

In 1909, the 69 kilovolt transmission lines were constructed and materials were brought in at the time by horse and buggy. Today, modern equipment will be used to bring this part of the grid up to date before there are problems due to the aging system.

National Grid is proposing the A1/B2 Asset Condition Refurbishment project to replace these lines “as they are approaching the end of their asset life. The scope to rebuild these lines includes structure replacements, structure foundations, new conductor, and right-of-way access improvements where necessary along the approximate 61 miles of existing right-of-way.” An Open House is scheduled at Gardner City Hall on Thursday August 24, 2023 at 5pm. National Grid will have team members present from a variety of departments to answer questions. Note that the new infrastructure will be built, put into service, and then service to the old lines will be discontinued with the old structures subsequently removed. In that manner, power remains up during the project duration which is expected to take from 2024 to 2028.

National Grid has a short, informative video on a website put up for this project. There are also additional details on the page, CLICK HERE.

This 61 mile project originates in Vernon, Vermont, travels through Hinsdale and Winchester, New Hampshire then continues through a number of towns within Northern Massachusetts including, Warwick, Royalston, Winchendon, Gardner, Westminster, Fitchburg, Leominster, and Sterling.

Coming off the mainline, this project also includes the Athol Tap and the Crystal Lake Tap. The Athol Tap runs from Royalston Substation to Chestnut Hill Ave Substation in Athol, Massachusetts. The Crystal Lake Tap runs from Gardner Switching Station to Crystal Lake Substation in Gardner, Massachusetts.
Bombaci Boost (8/19/2023)

The Bombaci Boost – An Update on Some Downtown Gardner MA Buildings

Jon Bombaci reports that 2-10 Parker Street, the Garbose Building construction drawings are 95% complete.(construction completion in 2024) 25 Main Street is proceeding but awaiting a structural and final set for the Restaurant on the first floor. The 5000 square foot taproom and lounge will use the historic safe as a focal point and may be named, “The Vault.” 104 Parker Street is another building getting the “Bombaci Boost” with grey siding on 3 sides and an attractive fake brick vinyl on the front side. Jon Bombaci states, “We think this will give that building, and the entrance into downtown from Parker Street a significant face lift”

The company is calling the real estate project, Downtown Gardner Crossing. Bombaci has announced a successful refinancing effort for 25 Main Street with an appraised value of $2.8 million. More importantly, the bank has agreed to finance 89 percent of the construction budget.

For those interested in just how large a Bombaci Boost these buildings are getting, we are making the floor plans for 2-10 Parker and 25 Main available to you. 2-10 Parker Street Complete Plans, CLICK HERE. — 25 Main Street, Comp l ete Plans, CLICK HERE.

Gardner Magazine has used the phrase “Bombaci Boost” as a term of endearment as we have noticed Jon Bombaci seems to make himself available for any event affecting Downtown Gardner. This effort is critical in drawing attention to the efforts in Downtown and showing others what can be done when a professional company comes to town.

Jon Bombaci has also been buying local windows just like Gary Lorden who is renovating 42-52 Parker Street. And so local companies and local jobs are boosted too by the Downtown Revitalization effort.

In the interests of fun for our readers, we have created the fictional BOMOT which instantly transforms a building and the Bombroi II which magically creates building plans.

The actual work Jon Bombaci has done is the product of actual human ingenuity, and not science fiction. But nevertheless, it has resulted in what we are calling the “Bombaci Boost.”
Candidate Kamuda (8/15/2023)

Carolyn Kamuda August 15, 2023

Gardner Magazine would like to make the views of any candidate for City office available to the public. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com and we’ll set something up.

Gardner MA Council Candidate Kamuda Calls for More Facts on Route 140 Zoning – Speaks on Horse Racing

Carolyn Kamuda is a candidate for Councilor at Large in Gardner. She has expressed concerns about the proposed change of zoning on Route 140 from residential to commercial. Kamuda has also detailed concerns about a proposed Horse Racing business which has expressed a clear interest in the property should it become available.

In our interview, we speak about the possible change in zoning, her specific concerns regarding a Race track, Kamuda’s own research on the matter, and her call for greater transparency in City Government including her pledge to be “an open book” if elected. She also supports DPW Director Dane Arnold’s request to increase DPW pay to attract more people. Kamuda says Mayor Nicholson “has done a pretty decent job.” She hopes people will take a serious look at what is going on with this Zoning Change as well as the possibility of Racing and Gaming coming in to Gardner and whether they want that to be the focal point of Gardner.

Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Carolyn Kamuda 8-15-23

Publisher’s note: We have confirmed that Bay State Racing LLC is a Massachusetts corporation formed in March 2023 and that they have joined the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce. Regarding the North County Land Trust, here is a link to their opinion page regarding the Route 140 proposed zoning change. I provide this information in the interest of fairness. For the record, this publisher, Werner Poegel, was the only citizen outside of Gardner City Government who spoke in favor of the Route 140 Zoning Change at a public hearing in the Spring. Here’s a link to our original editorial.
Parcels – Rumors (8/13/2023)

So Many Possibilities of Commercial Businesses Wanting to Come to Gardner MA

Should commercial land become available in Gardner, there are dozens of businesses which may be interested. Our Business Wish List page now has a gallery of possibilities. CLICK HERE If you’d like to hear the Mayor’s Update at the starting point of his explanation on the Zoning Process – the complete and correct explanation, CLICK PLAY on any device.

Zoning Process 8-11-23 Mayor Michael Nicholson
Water 8-5-23 (8/5/2023)

Streamflow Status is mostly Above Normal or Much Above Normal throughout Central Massachusetts.

Streamflow Above Normal – Shouldn’t be any Water Restrictions in Greater Gardner MA

In the Greater Gardner MA area, there shouldn’t be any water restrictions. So if your community has one, ask some questions as to why. Here is the objective Stream flow from 10:15am on August 5, 2023 and the long-term Drought Forecast map. Logic says there’s plenty of water, but there have been reports this year of ongoing restrictions when there shouldn’t be, so here are the facts
Greenwood Open (7/28/2023)

The Joy of the Pool Extended in Gardner MA

Due to the Hot Weather, Hours for the Greenwood Pool were extended to 7pm on Friday July 28, 2023.

The Greenwood Pool is normally open Monday through Saturday from noon to 5pm. Cost is $4 adults, $2 Seniors, and $3 Children 17 and under. Passes are available at the Greenwood Pool or at Gardner City Hall.
After Centennial Celebration (7/22/2023)

Summer Centennial Celebration held in Gardner MA with Beautiful Weather

The Gardner Summer Centennial Celebration was held on Saturday, July 22, 2023 from noon until 6pm on the grounds of Mount Wachusett Community College. The band, Plead the 5th and DJ, Jacob Cormier were enjoyed by those who attended. Food was consumed at the Food Truck area and there was plenty of place to sit and talk with friends at the tables provided. The Kid Zone put smiles on the faces of youngsters.

There were a number of vendors including non-profits. And true to their mission of keeping the community safe, the Gardner Police Department handed out about 150 bike helmets and bike lights posting, “We spoke with kids and families about bicycle safety while enjoying the beautiful weather and this incredible event!”

It had a community atmosphere filled with fun and fellowship. It was a true family event. In the spirit of fun, Gardner Mayor Nicholson, among others, took turns at the Dunk Tank where many delighted youngsters and adults seemed to pitch very accurately today. COMPLETE PHOTO GALLERY

We spoke with Mayor Nicholson while he was still dry. Here’s what he said. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Mayor Nicholson on 7-22-23

The Gardner Summer Centennial Celebration was a great event on a beautiful day. Will it be repeated next year and be the second year of an annual Summer Celebration?
Traffic Pattern (7/21/2023)

Beautiful Sidewalks and Different Parking Options on Park Street in Gardner MA

This summer, all of the sidewalks around Monument Park were replaced with wider ADA compliant versions. The sidewalks on Park Street are wider still. However, the allowable parking spots are in different locations so the Gardner Police Department has asked people to take note of the traffic pattern change.

Gardner PD posted, “***ATTENTION TRAFFIC PATTERN CHANGE*** There are no longer parking spaces on Park St adjacent to Monument Park. Street parking is still available on the opposite side of the street. This is a permanent traffic pattern change. Our Department will be taking notice of vehicles in the new no parking area.” Note that dozens of vehicles are able to park at the new Park Street Park adjacent to the Elks Club.
Greenwood Open (7/20/2023)

Greenwood Pool in Gardner MA to Reopen Saturday July 22nd

Swimming and Swim Classes to resume July 22, 2023 at noon. Pool has been closed for cleaning after broken glass goggles caused the need for the pool to be drained, cleaned, and refilled.
Planning 7-18-23 (7/19/2023)

Gardner MA Planning Board Engages with Proponents of Concord Crossing at Meeting of July 18, 2023

Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY

Planning Board July 18, 2023

Chairman Mark Shafron was running the meeting remotely as he was recovering from knee surgery and thanked his Vice Chair Robert Swartz. Planning Board heard from Trevor Beauregard regarding the Open Space Plan. The Planning Board voted to endorse the Open Space Plan. The Gardner City Council will now vote whether or not to adopt it.

For most of the meeting, the Planning Board then took up the Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development. There would be 76 lots of new homes according to the latest proposal to the Board. Chairman says the Planning Board would like to see larger lots and fewer units and a discussion ensued on the subject. It appears the Planning Board would like about 30 fewer homes. The question is whether that would be economically feasible to the developer. Listen to the meeting to understand the details.
Farmers Market (7/18/2023)

Future of Waterford as Community Center has Begun – Hosting Gardner Farmers Market on Thursdays

The Gardner Farmers Market will be located at 62 Waterford Street, Gardner every Thursday from now until October – Hours are 8:30am to 12:30pm. Gardner Magazine had the distinct honor of speaking with Market Manager Nadine Smith about all the details. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Vendors are urged to contact Nadine Smith at (978) 413-1859. This year, not only fruit and vegetable vendors, but also crafters are welcome, so look for the Gardner Farmers Market to grow into a local goods marketplace.
In a Name (7/15/2023)

Park Street Park – What Will the Permanent Name Be?

I initiated a poll on a couple of local Facebook groups using Centennial Park as the only starting option and requesting members to add options. So far as of the morning of July 15th, “Crystal Lake Park” seems to be a favorite followed by “Parky McParkface” If you’d like to vote visit Gardner MA: Uncensored, CLICK HERE, or Gardner, Ma – #1 What’s going on Page! CLICK HERE.

We don’t know how or when the permanent name will be selected, but we do know that citizen input is strongly considered. Therefore, make your idea known and and either add an option or vote for an existing option in either of the two polls.

Park Street Park is just one of many improvements being made in that area. Around Monument Park, wider sidewalks have recently been installed. Park Street itself has wider sidewalks. The Greenwood Indoor Pool comes down later this year and a new Pavilion goes up next year. Learn more in the Mayor’s Update of July 14, 2023, click here, of the 3 Years Interview, “Transformation”, CLICK HERE.
Trail Heroes (7/14/2023)

Gardner MA Conservation Agent Sophie Dorow Seeking Trail Crew Heroes

Sophie Dorow asks in a communication: “ Love Working Outdoors? Need community service hours? Want to see positive changes in our city? Then this opportunity may be your chance to make connections with a passionate team of people like yourself!”

Dorow explained that the city of Gardner does not have any caretakers of our precious trails and after some recent park installments and upgrades, we are looking for any dedicated people who have the passion and free time to help build, upgrade and maintain Gardner’s trails and paths. I see the many benefits of pulling people together that have similar interests in the longevity and betterment of the recreational and conservation aspect of local trails.

“Some trails are old and need upgrades, some need to be maintained after prolonged periods of time with succession and overgrowth of vegetation, muddy sinkholes and fallen trees from previous storms, while others are in the planning phase and are waiting to be brought to life, so there are many opportunities for people to choose how they would like to be involved. It can also be a great stepping stone for anyone who has community service requirements i.e. high school, college, scouts etc.”

You provide the labor. Sophie will provide the tools.

Tools would be provided for trail work such as: hand saws, clippers, pruners, shovels, sheers, rake, hand trowel, work gloves, high limb pruner etc. using a sign-out system.

To get involved, contact Sophie Dorow via email: SDorow@Gardner-MA.gov
Park St. Angle (7/11/2023)

Park Street Park in Gardner MA Looking Great From Every Angle

Completion is expected next month, but the transformation is evident right now. What just months ago was an unsightly lot welcoming Gardner visitors with barbed wire is now an attractive spot with a gorgeous waterfront view. The Park ties in with the bike path and features parking for dozens of vehicles and picnic tables for thousands of picnics in the years to come. It’s all part of Phase 3 of the Downtown Revitalization Project.

Monument Park got wider sidewalks and Park Street got wide sidewalks.

Later in the year, it is expected that the Greenwood Indoor Pool building will come down. At some point, a new pavilion will be constructed at the site, also with a gorgeous view of Crystal Lake.

People driving by now have a beautiful view to tell others about.
Summer Centennial (7/9/2023)

Spotlight is on Gardner MA Summer Centennial Celebration – July 22, 2023

Gardner Magazine is working on an article with complete details on the Summer Centennial Celebration taking place at Mount Wachusett Community College on Saturday July 22, 2023 (Raindate: July 23rd) We already have exciting interviews completed with DJ Jacob Cormier and Band Leader Matt Culver of Plead the Fifth (both will appear) and we’ll be speaking with Theresa Thompson, event coordinator.

Article launches on Tuesday, July 11th with more detail on what is sure to be one of the biggest, and most fun, events of the summer. For events in Gardner, visit our Centennial page, CLICK HERE.

The event is utilizing the walking track at Mount Wachusett Community College as a unique staging area with a Kid Zone in the Center. Various vendors will surround the track and a variety of food trucks are expected. There will be plenty of parking and even a shuttle service.
Regional Update (7/7/2023)

Gardner Magazine Regional Update July 7, 2023

Noah Jordan, Toby White, and Sarah Lepley report on events and community stories throughout the region in Gardner and surrounding towns. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY

Bonus in this addition: the Entire interviews with Plead the 5th and DJ Jacob Cormier who will be appearing at the Summer Centennial Celebration in 2 short weeks. Following the Gardner stories, we report on happenings in Ashburnham, Ashby, Barre, Hubbardston, New Salem, Templeton, and Winchendon.
Bird Arrives (7/5/2023)

PRESS RELEASE on pdf 7-5-23 CLICK HERE.

UPDATE 7-10-23: Readers Note: Bird used the “partner” language in its Press Release indicating that it and the City had “teamed up.” However, this is inaccurate as there is no relationship. The City of Gardner is simply the licensing authority. More information, CLICK HERE.

BIRD Scooters Arrive in Gardner MA

BIRD Scooters are ready to ride in Gardner. And it’s easy to use one. Using your mobile phone or your laptop, simply get the Bird app from the Apple or Android app store. Then to find an available scooter, just open the app and you’ll see a service map displaying nearby vehicles and riding zones. In Gardner the pricing is simple: $1 to unlock and 49 cents per minute of use. If you qualify for community pricing, you get 50% off. (Low riders receiving state or federal assistance, veterans, senior citizens and select community and non-profit groups) BIRD has had a soft opening in Gardner during the past week.

Have specific questions? Bird has a searchable FAQ to answer questions about logins, charges, rides, subscriptions, lock, terms, or issues. CLICK HERE.

When the ride is done, the Bird app has info about approved parking areas in Gardner. For more about “How to Bird”, read this article, CLICK HERE

According to the Press Release, Mayor Nicholson stated, “I’m really excited to see this new business come to Gardner and am looking forward to seeing people have a new way to get around the City…” As a company, BIRD stated it “aims to make cities more livable by reducing car trips, traffic congestion, and carbon emissions.”
Greenwood Update (6/29/2023)

Gardner MA Greenwood Pool Will Open Without Spray Park – Spray Park May Open Later

Greenwood Pool season begins Friday June 30, 2023 again without the Spray Park in operation. However, Debra Pond responded to our inquiry with the following: “We are first concentrating on opening the pool on June 30, 2023 with the installation of the new filtration system. Once we are confident that everything is operating properly we will turn our attention to the spray park operations. It is our attention to open it however, whereas it has not been open for the past three summers for a variety of reasons, we cannot turn it on at the same time as the pool becomes operational. Updates will be posted as they become available.”

Gardner Magazine will update our readers as appropriate. See our previous article for other information, CLICK HERE.

The City of Gardner has a page dedicated to the Greenwood Pool and will post updates on that page as they become available, CLICK HERE.
Water Problem or not? (6/28/2023)

Streamflow Map 6pm on June 28, 2023

What Water Problem? Greater Gardner MA Streamflow Status Much Above Normal

Some nearby areas notably have all-time highs for this day. Many are much above normal. Some are above normal. So when will the water restrictions by lifted? Gardner Magazine would like to know. See the latest streamflow readings for yourself, CLICK HERE.
3rd Graders (6/27/2023)

Gardner MA Assessor Gets High Marks But is Interrupted by 3^rd Graders on Tour

Gardner Assessor Christine Kumar had her act together with a comprehensive report praised by both Chair Charles LeBlanc and Member Paulette Burns. Listen to the meeting and her report on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Board of Assessors June 27, 2023

Simultaneously with the meeting going on, City Hall received a visit from over 60 nine year olds from the Third Grade who apparently were filled with enthusiasm in meeting Mayor Nicholson and getting a tour of Gardner’s government building. A reference is made to the 3^rd graders in the meeting. Who says a Board of Assessors Meeting can’t be exciting?
Biking Extended (6/15/2023)

Park Street Park includes bike path extension, parking, and a very nice view of Crystal Lake.

Park Street Park Progresses including Bike Path Extension and More in Gardner MA

Shown is work on the Park Street Park a couple of weeks ago and on June 15, 2023. Monument Park is shown with the completed sidewalks ready for concerts to begin on Saturday June 17, 2023 with the Green Sisters, a folk group. SEE 2023 SCHEDULE. Work continues on Park Street. It’s all part of Phase III of the Downtown Improvements Project. See Press Release from Mayor Nicholson regarding Gardner receiving $500,000 in funds for Bike Path Extension, CLICK HERE. – Trail will extend from Greenwood Memorial Pool, through Crystal Lake Cemetery, to Park Street. Various enthusiastic government officials are quoted in the Press Release. Illustration below shows Bike Path work 2023 and 2024 which connects to work done in the last couple of years.
Conservation Commission 6-12-23 (6/13/2023)

Conservation Commission Meets on June 12, 2023

Conservation Commission Agenda, CLICK HERE. Listen to the Meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

The Commission met to discuss pertinent issues on various properties.
Parker Featured (6/11/2023)

Gardner MA Parker House of Pizza is Featured on New England Perspective TV

The Television Show segment aired on June 11, 2023 and profiles great places to eat throughout New England. Parker House Owners Chris and Reno showcased their various pizzas to host Lika. Watch the entire segment. Click PLAY.

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson commented that “one of my favorite events is…right around Christmas time, we go Christmas Caroling throughout the Downtown, and there’s always free pizza at the end here….They’re really active and involved and the food is just really great.”

Parker House of Pizza has been in business for 21 years. Visit their website, CLICK HERE.
Open Space (6/5/2023)

Gardner MA Open Space and Recreation Plan Public Meeting June 1, 2023

Complete Plan in pdf format, CLICK HERE. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY

Public Meeting: Open Space/Recreation 6-1-23

The Meeting: This specific meeting concerns updating the initial 1986 Open Space Recreation Plan for the City of Gardner which has had various updates in 1994, 2000, 2006 and 2015. This is the plan dated April 2023 for which eventual City Council approval will be sought. The City of Gardner uses the Tighe & Bond firm for this plan as well as plans for Monument Park, the Park Street Park, Maki Park. Etc. This specific meeting involved a presentation by Arica McCarthy, a planner with Tighe & Bond. The first part is her presentation followed by questions and answers and comments from the public. Link to video

Interactive Map: Current Parks, Open Space, and Trails, CLICK HERE.

Conservation page, City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE.

Background: Gardner Massachusetts periodically updates its open space and recreation plans based on input from citizens. Important facts to note: The Gardner City Council is the approving authority for the plan and no property is considered “permanent open space” unless and until the actual property deed has a mandatory conservation provision on it. Therefore, the parcels Mayor Nicholson proposed to be changed from residential to commercial are not currently open space, even though they might be used as such simply because they are not used for anything specific at the moment. And lastly, any Zoning change would have to be approved by the City Council. Also, any proposed building must go through the permitting process which involves the Building Department and perhaps the Conservation Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Persons having any questions regarding the status of specific parcels are suggested to inquire via the Building Department. The Department of Economic Development and Planning can answer questions regarding businesses and industry who wish to locate in Gardner.

CPA: Gardner can participate in the Community Preservation Act by raising money through a surcharge of up to 3 % of the real estate tax levy and using the funds for open space protection, recreation, historic preservation, and the provision of affordable housing. When it does so, there is a significant matching fund from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue which can be used to purchase land to protect existing and future water supply areas, purchase land for active and passive recreational uses, and park equipment and other capital improvements.

The Committee’s work: Members of the OSRP Committee include David Orwig, Norman Beauregard, Trevor Beauregard, Rob Oliva, Steve Cormier, Sophie Dorow, Anna Wilkins, Ron Cormier, and Steve Rockwood, plus Gordon Leedy and Arica McCarthy from Tighe & Bond. Meetings this time around were held beginning in April 2022 with an initial 4 committee meetings on different dates, a public meeting in August 2022, 4 committee meetings between December 2022 and March 2023, and this meeting with the Planning Board, City Council, Conservation Commission and Public Hearing on June 1, 2023.

Survey: As part of the process, a resident survey was conducted asking people to select the top 3 recreation facility improvements “you feel are needed in Gardner” — The Top 10 items were:#1: Additional/Improved City Sidewalks – 104, #2: Additional/Improved Children’s… – 90, #3: Additional natural conservation – 85, #4: Improvements to Greenwood Pool – 79, #5, Additional neighborhood parks: – 69, #6: Access to Camp Collier/Lake Wampanoag – 63, #7: Improvements to Dunn Pond – 42, #8 Additional bike paths – 42, #9: Better access to Otter River – 34, and #10: Mountain biking trails – 22.
Ovila Case Case (6/1/2023)

UPDATE: 6-2-23 – According to DPW Director Dane Arnold, the Fantasy Playground has been closed off due to broken boards on the wooden structure and will be taken down during the course of the summer. According to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, it will take at least $150,000 to replace it. He plans to ask the Gardner City Council for funds from free cash.

Gardner MA “Ovila Case Playground” Case – Case

As usual, Social Media is filled with conjecture. However, Ovila Case IS OPEN to the public for everything except the Wooden Structure. In front of the Wooden Structure, the City of Gardner has placed a sign saying, “Please Keep Off”. We are awaiting word on what the next steps will be regarding the wooden structure named “the Fantasy Playground.”

The City of Gardner has expended a considerable amount of money on Ovila Case over the years. This year, Ovila Case is slated to get a new pickleball court. In the long-term, it is planned to repair and replace the nighttime lights over the baseball diamond at Ovila Case (as well as Bickford Playground). Besides the baseball diamond, Ovila Case has a beautiful walking – running track and the park had received new charcoal grills within the past couple of years. Other upgrades: walking trail, parking lot, and picnic trail, and new basketball court.

One thing we do know. The “You Wreck It! We Remove It! You Don’t Have It!” sign is still up at this time. However, it is clear the problems with the wooden structure are “wear-related” and not sabotage.
Eaton Street (5/28/2023)

Smooth Eaton Street in Gardner MA Inspires Corny Poem

Beating the Trees
The trees have been beaten on Eaton,
Smooth Paving done without cheatin’,
The Guardrail to be replaced with one better.
And then finished paving done to the letter.

Eaton Street was taken right down to the dirt in the hope that doing so will prevent a recurrence of tree roots pushing up the road. A finish coat of paving is planned after the new guardrail is installed so that the heavy equipment won’t ruin the final paving job. Next stop: Partridge Street….
Park St. Park (5/28/2023)

For the exciting renderings of the other Downtown Projects including Monument Park upgrades, read our April article, CLICK HERE.

Barbed Wire Gone – Development of Park Street Park has Begun in Gardner MA

Eventually there will be dozens of parking spaces and part of the bike path, all facing beautiful Crystal Lake. The rendering shows what the finished park will look like.
Accomplished (5/26/2023)

The Interview you’ll want to explore: Accomplished in Gardner MA

Much has been accomplished in Gardner Massachusetts. We cover 2 dozen categories of success concerning the Chair City of Gardner MA. Mayor Michael Nicholson became Mayor in 2020 after a Special Election. He was reelected in 2021 and will be on the ballot this Fall seeking another term. Page with text of all questions and answers, plus AUDIO for each category, CLICK HERE.

Listen to the entire interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Accomplished in Gardner MA – May 2023

We have the entire text of the interview available on this page, CLICK HERE. For your convenience, we also have jump links below so you can go directly to read any section of greatest interest and/or listen just to that section.

Jump to: Aesthetic Improvements — Alert Service — Amenities Betterment — Benefitting Arts — Blight to Promise —- Boosting Athletics — Business Growth —- City Transparency — Community Events — Easy Voting — Elder Concerns — Educational Achievements — Fiscal Responsibility — Future Planning — Improving Recreation —Infrastructure Upgrades — Interactive Services — Life Issues Headway — Medical Advancements — Planet Awareness — Public Safety — Supporting Music — Veterans Services — Wayfinding Focus — Recognition by Others — Running for Mayor

THANK YOU Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson for putting in the effort to complete this project.
Yard Sale Talk (5/21/2023)

Photos of Yard Sales in Gardner MA on May 21, 2023.

Gardner MA Yard Salers Speak About the Chair City

Gardner Magazine made the rounds to some of the dozens of Yard Sales held in the Chair City on Sunday May 21, 2023 and we asked these wise individuals for their opinions on what’s going on in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Yard Sale Talk May 21, 2023

Sometimes when you want to know what people really think, just ask, and that’s exactly what we did. In general, people like the direction Gardner is pursuing. The subject of the roads kept coming up. However, when we told people that Gardner was putting more in to roads now than ever before, they preferred doing what Gardner is doing rather than seeing a big tax increase in order to do things faster. There were also other positives and other negatives and we thank all who participated. Your opinions matter.

As for the Yard Sales themselves, 87 homes participated according to the map and from what people told us, traffic was brisk and the customers were buying. Alphabetical List by street of 87 participants: JPG Image PDF.
The “M” Building (5/19/2023)

Empire Management Building in Downtown Gardner MA to get STUNNING Improvements

In more fantastic news for Downtown Gardner, the Empire Management Building (sometimes known as the “M” Building because of the big M at the top) will be getting some stunning facade improvements. We show a rendering of what the new front of the building will look like and a rendering of the new side elevation. Empire Office Manager Gabrielle Surette spoke with us about the building at 14 -24 Parker Street, Downtown Gardner, and Empire Management.

Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY

Gabrielle Surette – Empire Management 5-19-23

Construction will be done in phases with the 3 storefronts being redone, apartments upstairs, and also the basement area which was once a bowling alley. As renovating the entire upstairs area for apartments would displace the existing karate studio, one option being considered is to remodel the basement for use as the new karate studio.

Surette was very upbeat and positive about the direction Downtown Gardner was taking saying, “This is the best it’s looked in a while…it’s just a good feeling that things are going in the right direction.”

They are hoping Phase 1 will begin next month in June 2023.
Garbose Progress (5/13/2023)

It’s been just 6 weeks and Garbose Building Transformation is Well Underway in Gardner MA

More than a thousand pairs of shoes were removed from the corner storefront. Huge dumpsters full of stuff were taken out. Now the dumpsters are gone and the construction has begun. Gardner’s iconic building, the Garbose Building, is on its way to glory once again.

In March Jonathan Bombaci of Candor Realty described the plans for the building,”18 market rate residential one-bedroom and studio efficiency units catering to residents looking for condo quality accommodations at an affordable price on the upper floors of the building, as well as retaining all retail space on the buildings’ ground level.”

The Garbose Building which was built in 1883 is expected to retain its historic exterior appearance while being outfitted with the latest modern amenities within and nice finishes such as granite countertops.
School Street (4/24/2023)

Finance Committee packet in which the Mayor references this issue, CLICK HERE. He also details the results of the RFP process for other properties.

School Street Condos Halted in Gardner MA Due to Title Issue

Chad King’s successful proposal to turn the old School Street School at 53 School Street into condos is not happening due to a problem discovered during the buyer’s title search. Apparently, a portion of the back of the property was originally purchased as part of Jackson Playground for the purpose of creating a playground. According to a communication to the City Council by Mayor Nicholson, “As such it falls under the protections of Article 97 of the Commonwealth’s Constitution. Since Jackson Park and School Street School sit on land that was purchased through three separate sales by the City, the Administration has begun to work with our local legislative delegation to conduct the statutorily required land swap vote that will come before the City Council for consideration as a Home Rule Petition once the vote document is completed. After this process is done, the Administration will put the property back out for disposition.”

Once the issue is cleared up, Chad King will be free to submit a new request for proposal if he wishes. The former School Street School may yet become condos, but we will all just have to wait.
Exciting Renderings (4/21/2023)

Exciting Renderings of Approved Gardner MA Projects Released

CLICK on any Image for larger view.

Maki Park

Park Street Park

For further information on Projects in the City of Gardner, review our interviews with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and our various Projects pages:

You can also use the site search at top of home page to look for articles and City Council packets on specific projects.

Greenwood Pavilion

Various Upgrades & Monument Park

Interviews:

Projects 7-6-22

Go Forward with Gardner

What’s Next 11-21-22

Turn of the Century

Lessons About Gardner History

March to Success – Projects and Progress 3-5-23

Here’s how the funding is broken down: Greenwood Pool Demolition and Pavilion Construction Project – funded by CDBG funds ($733,160) and City Free Cash appropriation ($116,000)

Park Street Park – $268,000 from City Free Cash Appropriation.

Downtown Improvement Project Phase 3 of 6 – CDBG ($922,050), MA Complete Streets Grant ($400,000), City funding ($350,000) Includes extension of Bike Path from Skating Rink, down Park St, behind Greenwood Pool to Crystal Lake Park.

Maki Park – CDBG ($256,300), City Free Cash Appropriation ($183,000)

CDBG is the Community Development Block Grant

Project Pages:

Top 40 Projects
Golf 2023 (4/14/2023)

Heading for an “Out of This World” Golf Season in Greater Gardner MA

Some golfers started in February this year due to the milder temperatures and lack of snow, (except for around March 14th). Spring has sprung and the grass will grow and the conditions just might be “Out of This World” for 2023. There are some choices for golf enthusiasts in the Greater Gardner area.

There are more than 8 golf courses in the immediate area: Gardner Municipal Golf Course, 152 Eaton Street, Gardner Website: Rates: Facebook – Templewood Golf Course, 160 Brooks Rd., Templeton, MA Website: Rates: Facebook: – Westminster Golf & Country Club, 51 Ellis Rd., Westminster MA Website: Rates: Facebook: – The Woods of Westminster, Woods of Westminster Course, 23 Rock Maple Lane., Westminster MA Website: Rates: Facebook: – Ellinwood Country Club, 1928 Pleasant St., Athol MA Website: Rates: Facebook: – Camp Coldbrook RV Resort, Camp Coldbrook Course, 864 Old Coldbrook Rd., Barre MA Website: Facebook: – Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club, Quail Hollow Course, 1822 Old Turnpike Rd., Oakham MA Website: Rates: Facebook: – Bedrock Golf Club, Bed Rock Course, 87 Barre Paxton Rd., Rutland MA Website: Rates: Facebook:

Can golf really be “Out of This World”. It’s already happened. Astronaut Alan Shepard put golf on the moon more than 50 years ago and 2 golf balls he hit in 1971 are probably still there.

Beating the Trees
The trees have been beaten on Eaton, Smooth Paving done without cheatin’, The Guardrail to be replaced with one better. And then finished paving done to the letter.

Downtown Upgrades (4/13/2023)

For more information about Downtown Gardner visit DowntownGardner.com. For information about Gardner’s Downtown organization and their events, visit GardnerSquareTwo.com

Excitement over 2023 Further Upgrades Improving Downtown Gardner MA

Improvements in Downtown Gardner MA have been noticed. And they are continuing. From 2022 to 2023 and going forward, residents are seeing the difference. Listen to Mayor Nicholson on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Mayor Nicholson on Downtown Gardner

2023 Items are slated to begin within the next month or so and improvements are slated to continue right through 2024.

Already Completed Improvements
Sidewalks
Paving
Facades
Lighting
Junk Removed
25 Main Street Storefronts available

On the List for 2023
New Downtown Banners available for sponsorship as well as Flower Pots for the season.
Sidewalk work at Monument Park to make them ADA compliant as well as added Victorian Light Posts. 5 diseased trees to be replaced.
New short-term simple added wayfinding signs will be fabricated by the City to aid residents and visitors alike. Also, added lighting.
Rear Main Street Project to begin with eventual amphitheatre seating for an additional music venue, food truck parking, additional apartments, and a potential rooftop restaurant. – a “Downtown Crossing’
Park Street park begins with new parking lot and a tie-in to the bike trail.
Late Fall demolition of Greenwood Pool Building
Fountain at Bullnose Park
Fountains, planting, swings, and benches at Orpheum Park
Maki Park (across from Gardner Ale House) will be terraced.

2024 and Being Discussed
42-52 Parker Street Apartments available for rent. More than 2 dozen should be available.
Downtown Bakery? – This is the most requested type of business spoken about in Social Media posts.
Downtown Steakhouse? – The new owner of the former Bank of America building said he had someone in mind.
More extensive wayfinding signs in Downtown to be implemented as a result of 2023 Wayfinding study. This study concluded on April 10, 2023 and results are now being compiled and analyzed.
Completion of new outdoor pavilion at site of former Greenwood Pool building. This will give residents and visitors a clear view of Crystal Lake.
New Storefronts open at Garbose Building and new apartments available in same building.
Depending on progress of the Rear Main Street project, new storefronts and apartments will be available in 2024/2025.

Wayfinding Answers (4/11/2023)

Wayfinding Survey – Answers from an Artificial Intelligence Revealed in Gardner MA

Listen to the Questions and Answers on any device. Click Play.

Wayfinding Survey – AI Interview

The City of Gardner conducted an online Wayfinding Public Survey which ended April 10, 2023. Gardner Magazine had an Artificial Intelligence take the survey and answer the questions which revolved around whether the existing gateway wayfinding signs in Gardner are serving their purpose and various associated questions. Read the entire set of questions and the AI answers. CLICK HERE.

The City of Gardner is expected to immediately use the results to help it develop a short-term plan and fabricate simple signs in the near future as a short-term approach, with the potential of evolving the complexity and detail of the signs in the long-term through a future, more comprehensive community process.
Accomplished (4/6/2023)

Acccomplished.us Launches to Showcase Accomplishments of City of Gardner MA

It’s now there for all in the nation to see, the accomplishments of Gardner, Massachusetts in 24 different categories including Aesthetic Improvements, Alert Service, Amenities Betterment, Benefitting Arts, Blight to Promise, Boosting Athletics, Business Growth, City Transparency, Community Events, Easy Voting, Elder Concerns, Educational Achievements, Fiscal Responsibility, Future Planning, Improving Recreation, Infrastructure Upgrades, Interactive Services, Life Issues Headway, Medical Advancements, Planet Awareness, Public Safety, Supporting Music, Veterans Services, and Wayfinding Focus.

Visit the Website at Accomplished.us, CLICK HERE.

Downtown Gardner

For information on Downtown Gardner including events throughout 2023, visit DowntownGardner.com . For information on the Downtown Association including memberships, visit GardnerSquareTwo.com
Junky Building Sold (4/3/2023)

View our previous article from February when this property was being marketed for sale.

Gardner MA Plan to Turn Blight into Promise Paying Off Again

73 Stuart Street has an appraised value of -0- due to the cost of demolishing it. Candor Realty is buying it for the back taxes of $17,000 following City approval of its Request for Proposal. Plan is for 6 New Triplex construction condos which Jonathan Bombaci of Candor Realty stated could have a value of $300,000 each or a possibility of adding $1,800,000 to the tax base. At $16.13/1000, that’s almost 30 grand a year in additional taxes. View the entire Proposal, CLICK HERE.

Bombaci stated in the proposal that “for each and every property we invest in, we do everything we can to help the owner, help the tenants, help the community, help our investors….Every situation is different, but we make it a priority to make an impact.

Bombaci stated they were new to Gardner, “but looking to grow significant portfolio … we have a good reputation with past clients and current residents.” View our article on the sale of the Garbose Building
Zoning Change (3/31/2023)

Editorial – Gardner MA – Route 140 Proposed Zoning Change Is Common Sense Choice

Approval of Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Route 140 Zoning Change proposal is simple common sense. Since being sworn in, the Mayor has looked at properties throughout the City in an effort for them to have their “best use”. The Development Department has been active in recruiting new property owners to renovate blighted properties. Unused City properties have been put up for sale to get them back on the tax rolls. Maki Park and Park Street Park have been authorized to provide additional recreational space. The City is getting State help to market the former Garbose Metal site.

Business Interest in Gardner

There’s been lots of interest from companies who want to come to Gardner, but need more land than is currently available. This change would not only mitigate that problem, but also allay concerns over too much potential future residential development in the Route 140 area which would have an actual adverse environmental and safety impact, and create a strain on City resources. In our opinion, the Planning Board erred in not recommending the Route 140 zoning change. This is something the Gardner City Council can correct on Monday. To the citizens of Gardner: Mayor Nicholson has proven he has your back – we all can see the changes for the better. Show your support by showing up at the Public Hearing Monday, April 3, 2023 at 6:30pm and speak in favor of Common Sense.
Downtown Wayfinding (3/28/2023)

Gardner MA Wants Your Opinion on What Signage Works for You

The City of Gardner posted, “Whether you rely on wayfinding signage, GPS, or instinct to navigate to and through Gardner, we want to hear from you! “ The City of Gardner has been developing a wayfinding study in Downtown Gardner to: establish an inventory of existing signage, ensure signs serve various types of users, identify locations for new signage to better direct visitors to Downtown and nearby destinations, use signage to improve visibility of parking and access to parking, and create a sense of arrival with a distinct sign style that reflects the character of Downtown.

Gardner is asking for your input through a 5 minute online survey CLICK LINK – You’ll tell about your experience when visiting Gardner, your thoughts on the current signs, and other input that will directly inform where new signs should be located and how they might be designed. Survey runs until April 10, 2023 so do it today.

The City will be using this wayfinding plan to develop and fabricate simple signs in the near future as a short-term approach, with the potential of evolving the complexity and detail of the signs in the long-term through a future, more comprehensive community process.
Garbose Building (3/27/2023)

Garbose Building Gardner MA

Garbose Building as featured in Gardner Magazine Video short “Gardner Goes Disney”

Garbose Building Closing on 3-20-23

Commercial space is currently available in this building in Downtown Gardner.

Jon Bombaci Interview March 27, 2023

Historic Garbose Building in Gardner MA Has New Owner with Big Plans

We spoke with Jonathan Bombaci about this project and about his other transformative work in Downtown Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Jonathan Bombaci March 27, 2023

According to a Press Release, Candor Realty, led by Jonathan Bombaci has purchased the Garbose Building located at 2-10 Parker Street in Gardner. Bombaci stated, “We’re excited to double down on our investment in Downtown Gardner and are looking forward to turning this building into something useful again.” Plans include: “18 market rate residential one-bedroom and studio efficiency units catering to residents looking for condo quality accommodations at an affordable price on the upper floors of the building, as well as retaining all retail space on the buildings’ ground level.” Funding is being provided by GFA Federal Credit Union. Positive comments about the transaction by local Government and Business leaders can be found in the Press Release, CLICK HERE.

History of the Garbose Building

Built in 1883, the Garbose Building stands prominently in West Gardner Square at the Corner of Pleasant and Parker Streets, (2-10 Parker Street). 100 years after its construction, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on April 12, 1983 after having been nominated in February of that year. Address listed in the historic register is 3 Pleasant Street, Gardner MA. The property closing actually occurred on March 20, 2023 with the recording of the deed being held up by the historic registration of the property. In 2015, the building was closed for a week beginning March 15, 2015 while then owner Dean Marcus addressed building code violations discovered during an inspection following a complaint. Therefore the new owners are welcome as their press release is entitled, “Historic Downtown Getting a New Lease on Life”

Plans for the Buildings

During our interview, Bombaci, spoke of great finishes like granite countertops, nice modern designs, “it will be a Grade A asset by the time we’re done with it.” And about 25 Main Street he stated, “We hope to attract some sort of food, coffee shop, bakery, something like that.” And regarding his other purchase on Main Street he stated it is one hundred percent occupied which “proves that there is a demand for these types of spaces in the Downtown.” Candor Realty has a storefront at 88 Main Street where it runs its Downtown operations.

Website: CandoRealty.com – CLICK HERE
Gardner Disney Video (3/23/2023)

A Scene from “Gardner Goes Disney”

Rendering of City Hall in “Gardner Goes Disney”

Gardner Goes Disney – A video for the Magical Chair City of Gardner MA

Listen to the soundtrack on any device. Click Play

Gardner Goes Disney Soundtrack of Songs

The City of Gardner has a future history which is unwritten. It is a magical City where almost anything is possible. Where its people reward ideas and support each other… Where business and industry are welcome… Where families thrive and children learn… This is a day in the Chair City. This is going to be the best day ever.

Featuring the licensed songs “Today is the Best Day”, “It’s Beautiful Now” which speaks of a rainbow soon to come…ready when the sunshine comes again, it’s beautiful now where once it was hollow.. , “I wanna be your Super Hero,” stating I want to be everything you need and be of service, “It’s My Lucky Day,” and of course, “You’ve Got This”. The video speaks to the future promise of Gardner and its positive trajectory.

Truly the best is yet to come in Gardner MA. This is an uplifting video of love and a reminder that all it takes to achieve success is a dream and a place to make that dream happen. That place is the Chair City of Gardner.

By rendering the places and people in a fantastical Disney-like image, we aim to demonstrate the emotion involved in the day to day lives of people in Gardner and for those who hope to succeed in the City. Thank you Gardner people, Gardner businesses, and the entire Gardner Team at City Hall for your inspiration.
Gardner Goes Disney (3/21/2023)

Gardner MA Goes Disney – The Magic of the Chair City

Gardner Magazine has undertaken to capture the Magic of the Chair City in the eyes of the Disney Universe. It’s a page with over 100 images sure to delight or surprise you. CLICK HERE.

We also have pages just for fun with a Cartoonized Gardner City Council and School Committee – Additional Comics page.

Gardner City Council – Real and Cartoon, CLICK HERE.

Gardner School Committee – Real and Cartoon, CLICK HERE
South Gardner Electric (3/12/2023)

Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson’s Long-term plan to Beautify South Gardner

Gardner Mayor Nicholson would like South Gardner to look more like the second photo without wires. The Mayor recently stated that he would like to convert the area from West Broadway Pizza and Seafood to the Gardner Martial Arts Academy to underground electricity to make it look more beautiful, to make it more marketable, and to make it look more like a traditional Downtown area. Because the expense could be in the range of $800 grand or so, it is expected grand funding will be sought. In any case, it’s on the wish list of Want-to-do projects in the Chair City.

Recent projects undertaken to beautify Gardner have included sidewalks, paving, and lighting upgrades in Downtown Gardner as well as a focus on getting blighted buildings sold to those willing to undertake badly needed renovations. 25 Main Street and 42-52 Parker Street are notable successes of this initiative. However, the Mayor has made it clear that his plan is for the whole City to look better. Flower pots coming out again this Spring include South Gardner. The area around Monument Park is slated to get wider sidewalks and work will begin this year on the Park Street park, once again turning blight into promise by transforming the old electric substation into a beautiful park.
March to Success (3/5/2023)

March to Success – Projects and Progress

March to Success – Projects and Progress Interview with Mayor Michael Nicholson

With so much happening in the Chair City, sometimes it’s hard to keep track of it all. Fortunately, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson agreed to help us out. This interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson is March to Success – Projects and Progress. – Things happening in Gardner which directly affect your life. We will cover Notable Past Projects, Current Projects, Future Groundbreaking, and Future Planning and what’s on the capital planning list in 2023. Play on any device. CLICK PLAY. Complete Interview with text of all questions and answers plus graphics, CLICK HERE.

March to Success – Projects and Progress – Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

What you will learn: The medical services and resources being added in Gardner this year…. The status of public and private sector projects started in 2022 and what’s upcoming this year…. The projects affecting people in the Chair City directly…. The focus on Education which will benefit your kids…. What events are happening this year…. Really cool additions to existing parks and the new parks…. How Gardner is meeting people needs…. It’s a deep dive into what’s happening this year in Gardner! Complete Text

Jump to a Text Topic Section in the Interview: Notable Past Projects **** Medical Care **** Ongoing Private Sector Projects **** Work at the Schools **** Future Groundbreaking **** Future Planning **** The On-call Realtor **** Infrastructure Projects of the Past **** Good Impressions at City Hall **** Infrastructure Projects Being Discussed **** Infrastructure Projects in the Works **** Spaceport in the Future **** Future Planning **** People Projects **** The Cost of Cuts **** Education An Ongoing Project **** Strategic Use of Resources **** Event Projects **** Community Amenities **** Business Recruitment **** Grants – Past, Present, and Future **** Peoples Needs in the City of Gardner **** Addressing Project Needs Effectively **** Greatest Challenge Going Forward **** Setting Gardner Apart **** What Citizens Should Know.
Events ’23 (3/3/2023)

Events for 2023 are Shaping Up in the Chair City of Gardner MA

Visit our Centennial page for complete coverage of 2023 events. CLICK HERE.

Having an event not listed? Email News@GardnerMagazine.com and we’ll add it.
Pickleball (2/28/2023)

New Playground Equipment Approved in Gardner MA

In speaking about an approval for the DPW to purchase $200,000 of playground equipment, Gardner Mayor Nicholson stated, there’s “tons of opportunities at our playgrounds.”

Among other things, Ovila Case will be getting a pickleball court and the new Bailey Brook Park, the 5 and under playground, will be getting a pickleball court as well.

It’s going to be an exciting year for kids in the Chair City of Gardner, Massachusetts.
Mayor’s Update 2-17-23 (2/17/2023)

Mayor’s Update 2-17-23

February 17, 2023 is National Random Act of Kindness Day. Thank you for being kind.

Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Recognizes Progress in Weekly Update

Listen on any device. Click Play.

Mayor’s Update 2-17-23

In his weekly update of February 17, 2023, Mayor Nicholson recognized the progress of about a dozen students who were inducted this past week in to the Chair City Chapter of the National Honor Society. He also recognized the achievement of choral program students from Gardner’s Elementary, Middle, and High Schools who put on a joint concert together. For other progress in Gardner Public Schools, view this article.

Summer Camp Registration

The Mayor reported on the progress of the Summer Camp program registration which has about a 100 people already signed up. Registrations are still open. See Previous article for details, CLICK HERE.

Progress with Properties

Mayor Nicholson detailed the various properties the City has for sale and how you can buy one. See Previous article with complete contact details, CLICK HERE.

Progress with City Charter Review

The Mayor spoke of progress with the City Charter review and spoke of the Public Hearing taking place February 23, 2023 at 4pm. In advance of the hearing, citizens can mail ideas to the Mayor’s office or email csmith@Gardner-MA.gov See complete article on the topic, click here.
Junky Properties (2/13/2023)

Junky Buildings Interview with Nick Pelletier Offers Help to Those Seeking to Turn Blight Into Promise in Gardner MA

He’s an award-winning Realtor and he represents various properties for the City of Gardner, some with minimum offers of just $1. Listen to the short interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

NIck Pelletier 2-13-23

Nicholas Pelletier can be reached at Mobile: (978) 674-7146 or Office: (978) 840-9000 Website

73 Stuart Street and other properties, CLICK HERE for article. 142 Parker Street Article, CLICK HERE.
73 Stuart (2/11/2023)

UPDATE 2/18/23: Upon further review, on this property it’s a $1 bid plus the $17,000 in back taxes. Mayor Nicholson stated, “It was brought to our attention that there was an error in the listing price for the property for sale at 73 Stuart Street. The property was erroneously listed at $1, when the minimum price set by vote of the City Council was $17,000- the amount owed to the City in back taxes from the previous owner.”

73 Stuart

Completely Unsafe Junky Building For Sale in Gardner MA – Why You Should Buy It!

If you buy this “mansion”, (a former factory) you have to tear it down and build your dream structure. The City of Gardner got it through the tax title process and is accepting what they call “Request for Proposal” (RFP) through a Realtor with a minimum bid of one dollar. Here’s a link to the City’s on-call Realtor, Pelletier Properties, CLICK HERE.

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson posted, “Last year, Councilor George Tyros and I proposed an ordinance that was unanimously approved by the City Council that gave our City Departments the tools they need to go after problem properties and turn blight into promise. Utilizing those tools, the City was able to expedite taking ownership of this property through the tax title court process. The City is now selling the property for demolition and redevelopment.”

The City of Gardner is making a proactive effort to get rid of blighted buildings by selling them in a way to get the properties back on the tax rolls for the benefit of all Chair City citizens.

UPDATE 2-12-23: Other properties available now include a Single Family Home at 478 Chestnut Street for $48,000 (amount owed in back taxes), a property shown in our previous article at the corner of Parker and Nichols Street for $1 and the following properties available starting Wednesday February 15, 2023: 75 East Broadway (Prospect St School) – $100,000 —-14 Leamy St – vacant land from an old factory that the Gardner Redevelopment Authority (“GRA”) utilized Community Development Block Grant (“CDBG”) funding to demolish —- 177 West St – vacant land where the City tore down the former Cosentino Finishing Factory. $20,000. Be sure to contact the City’s on -call Realtor, Pelletier Properties to get in the first offers on these deals.
142 Parker Street (2/5/2023)

City of Gardner MA on Quest to Market Valuable Corner Lot

Using a technique employed by eBay sellers who list an item at 99 cents and then end up getting hundreds, the Chair City is marketing a .3 acre lot on the corner of Parker Street and Nichols Street. Some 6 years ago, the City voted to set the minimum price at $1 but only recently retained an on-call realtor to market the property, Pelletier Properties, Keller Williams North Central. Gardner had previously obtained the property through tax title, demoed a fire-damaged structure, and planted grass on the lot.

Highest and best offers are due by February 15, 2023. It is expected the property will generate much interest due to its valuable location. Will it bring $1, $1000, or $1 million? We will know soon. For more information, contact Pelletier Properties – Keller Williams North Central at this link. Goal of the City is to get the property sold and back on the tax rolls. Nicholas Pelletier can be reached at Mobile: (978) 674-7146 or Office: (978) 840-9000

Would this be a perfect place to build your dream?
Lessons – Gardner (2/1/2023)

Listen on any device. Click Play.

Lessons About Gardner History – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Lessons About Gardner History – An Interview with Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson

In a revealing interview, we interview Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson to learn more Lessons About Gardner History, how we can learn from the past to have more successes in the present and contribute to a better future. The entire interview is available to read in its entirety, CLICK HERE, or listen on any device. Click Play.

Lessons About Gardner History – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Topics covered include the storms of January 2023, Paving in the Chair City, the City Charter, updating Gardner City Hall, Fire Department needs, giving uses to unused City Buildings, Music Education in Gardner Public Schools, About the Covid Pandemic, Staff Development in the City of Gardner, Construction and use of school buildings, Signage in the City, Sludge Landfill Expansion, Lighting in the Chair City, Blighted Properties, Satisfaction in the Gardner Police Department, MMA and Grants, Things which didn’t turn out as well as expected, advice on purchasing a home, Spending money or waiting for grants, funding of Athletics, Gardner Disaster Preparedness, the Budget Process, Perfect Audit, Promotion of the Chair City, Growing Business in Gardner, Serving the Public, Gardner Events, Effectiveness of City Ordinances, Serving Senior Citizens, Visitors’ Center and Tourism, Downtown Gardner Traffic Flow, Funding Priorities, Environmental Concerns, Supporting Industry, Criticism from the Public, Topics of Phone Calls, Challenging Financial Times, and the Effectiveness of Various Approaches. Downloadable eBook 62 pages, CLICK HERE

We covered more than 3 dozen topics and Mayor Nicholson was good enough to answer every question and we very much appreciate it. Listen to the interview or read it right here.
Gardner 500 (1/19/2023)

Gardner MA Multi-Family Property Inspections

Inspections will be of Apartment Houses, Boarding Houses, and Dormitories looking at Fire Escapes, Exterior Porches, Egress Doors and Hardware, Stairways and Handrails, Smoke – Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Fire Alarms, and Emergency Lights and Exit Signs. Owners would do well to check on these things and solve the issues ahead of time.

New Gardner MA Building Inspector Tasked with 500 properties

Gardner’s Fiscal Year 2023 Budget allowed for the hiring of an additional full-time building inspector. Tony Whitman has been in the position since November 2022 and starts inspections of multi-family properties this Spring. Press Release to City Council by Mayor Michael Nicholson, CLICK HERE.

Time for Inspections

According to Mayor Nicholson these inspections have been needed for many years stating,”The 9th Massachusetts Building Code, 780 CMR 310.4, (Effective 10/20/2017) requires that the Building Department periodically inspects multifamily properties in the City on a five (5) year basis. However, while required by law, due to time constraints and staffing levels, our building department has been unable to get to these inspections due to other required inspections needing to be performed, since the early 2000s.”

Questions? Contact the Gardner Building Department at (978) 630-4007 or visit this page on the City website. Inspection Fee is $95 plus $10 for each unit with over 500 properties subject to this inspection.
100 Songs (1/14/2023)

100 Years of Song – Music from Every Year Gardner Has Been a City

100 Years of Music Since Gardner MA has been a City – Even 100 yr. old songs sound good!

We review the Top Songs from 1923 to 2022, the first 100 years of Gardner MA as a City. As you listen to some of the songs you’ll notice that as society has changed over time, so has the music. Popular music styles have varied widely and song topics run the gamut. There’s nothing like Uncle Dave Mason’s “Keep My Skillet Good and Greasy” from 1924 or “Tie a Yellow Ribbon..” released during the year of Gardner’s 50th in 1973.

Hope you enjoy it. 100 Years of Song, CLICK HERE.