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City Council 5-18-26 (5/19/2026)

Councilors wished Councilor Karen Hardern well who has been absent due to a back problem. Get well soon, Councilor Hardern.

City Council Holds Meeting with 7 of 11 Councilors Present

Alek Dernalowicz was elected City Council President Pro-Tem to lead the meeting in the absence of City Council President George Tyros. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY

City Council 5-18-26

Key actions included the unanimous approval of an order to reappropriate over $1 million in unexpended bond proceeds to cover budget shortfalls in several capital projects, most notably the Gardner Middle School roof. The Council also advanced a modified ordinance to increase water rates by 15% for Fiscal Year 2027—a reduction from the Mayor’s proposed 20% increase. This move was characterized as a necessary “catch-up” measure to prevent the water enterprise fund from reaching a deficit by FY27. Additionally, the Council officially closed the investigation into the Maki Park project following notification of full compliance from the Architectural Access Board.
Templeton 5-18-26 Results (5/19/2026)
The High Price of “No” – Overrides Defeated in Templeton, Now the Pain Begins

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the results in this podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Templeton MA Results

On May 18, 2026 Templeton reached a fiscal crossroads that will redefine the community for years to come. Facing a staggering $3.5 million deficit, town officials presented residents with a stark choice: approve a tax override or dismantle the current standard of municipal service. The electorate delivered a stinging rebuke, effectively choosing the latter.

This result captures the quintessential tension of modern municipal governance—the “unstoppable force” of rising operational costs meeting the “immovable object” of voter resistance. While the residents have made their preference for lower taxes clear, the reality of a $0 solution to a multi-million dollar problem is about to set in. The town now enters a period of managed decline where every “No” vote has a concrete, service-level consequence.

The 23% Mandate: Who Decided the Town’s Future?

The most striking aspect of this fiscal pivot was the lack of participation. Despite the massive stakes of the Annual Town Election, only 1,518 out of 6,485 registered voters cast a ballot. This represents a turnout of just 23.41%, a remarkably low figure for a decision with such high-impact gravity.

It is a counter-intuitive reality of local democracy: a decision that will impact 100% of residents was determined by less than a quarter of the population. The margin of defeat suggests that voters weren’t just being frugal; they were sending a message of total non-intervention. This was particularly evident in the failure of the larger $4 million request, which faced even steeper opposition than the smaller measure.

Unofficial Vote Counts:
- Question 1A ($2 Million Override): 416 Yes | 1,094 No
- Question 1B ($4 Million Override): 284 Yes | 1,214 No
The Half-Capacity Safety Net: Fire and Police Cuts

Public safety is the core promise of municipal government, yet it is no longer shielded from Templeton’s fiscal contraction. The Fire and Police departments are facing immediate, severe operational restrictions that go beyond simple belt-tightening. These aren’t just budget lines; from a policy perspective, they represent a significant “deferred liability” for the town.

The Fire Department is being forced to slash maintenance and training funds by 50%. Cutting truck maintenance in half does not actually save money in the long run; rather, it increases the risk of catastrophic equipment failure during an emergency. Furthermore, the loss of police personnel and training funds signals a fundamental shift toward a reactive, rather than proactive, public safety model.

Specific Public Safety Losses:
- Police Personnel: Immediate elimination of two full-time personnel positions.
- Fire Department Maintenance: 50% reduction in funds for emergency vehicle upkeep.
- Operational Readiness: 50% cut to overtime coverage and fire academy training funds.
- Departmental Stagnation: A total hiring freeze on all new staff or personnel for Fiscal Year 2027.
The Hidden Price Tag: When “No” Means 65% Higher Fees

Voters often view a “No” vote as a way to protect their wallets, but in Templeton, this has triggered an immediate “user-end penalty.” To keep essential services operational without tax revenue, the Parks and Recreation department must implement a staggering 65% increase in program fees. This is essentially a “stealth tax” on families who utilize town services.

The quality of life in Templeton will also take a visible hit through a choice of “diminished capacity.” The town must now choose between eliminating the part-time administrative assistant who runs the Parks department or the seasonal grass cutter who maintains the fields. Regardless of the choice, the appearance and utility of public spaces will decline as the Highway and Building and Grounds departments lose four total employees.

Even civic transparency is on the chopping block. The Cable department will be restricted to only recording and posting town meetings, a significant blow to the “civic transparency” necessary for a healthy local democracy. When tax revenue is denied, the cost of participation spikes, and the visibility of government operations fades.

A Multi-Million Dollar Mathematical Gap

The math facing Templeton is unforgiving and absolute. The town required $3,537,803 to maintain its current trajectory; following the election, it was granted exactly $0. This gap is now being bridged through deep cuts that disproportionately impact the town’s youngest residents.

Of the total cuts, approximately $1,518,121 will be stripped from town operations, while $2,019,682 will be gutted from the school budget. This “future-at-risk” scenario means the school district must operate with two million dollars less than what is required for standard operations. The fact that the $4 million override failed by a wider margin than the $2 million measure proves that voters rejected even the idea of a “bridge-gap” compromise.

The Road Ahead for Templeton

As Templeton enters Fiscal Year 2027, it does so with a significantly reduced capacity to provide the basic services residents expect. From reduced police patrols and hazardous equipment maintenance to unmaintained parks and soaring recreation fees, the “price of no” will be felt in the daily lives of every citizen. This is no longer a theoretical debate about tax rates; it is a live experiment in municipal austerity.

Publisher’s Editorial Note: The outcome of this election leaves us with a difficult question: What is the true balance between tax sensitivity and the essential nature of municipal services? The “Templeton Deficit” serves as a stark signal for other small towns facing similar crossroads. It proves that when a budget gap remains unbridged, the resulting cuts are not just numbers on a ledger—they are a fundamental rollback of the community’s quality of life.

Election Results: Municipal Boards and Commissions
- Select Board: April Cover (958 votes) and Timothy Toth (795 votes) were elected to the two available seats.
- Board of Assessors: George Barnes, Jr. (1,148 votes).
- Board of Health: Cynthia Cadoret (1,102 votes).
- Cemetery Commission: Matthew McDonald (1,123 votes).
- Community Preservation Committee: John Henshaw (1,166 votes).
- Light & Water Commission: Dana Blais (1,137 votes).
- Sewer Commission: Mark Moschetti (1,001 votes).
- Housing Authority: Louise Chaffee (1,081 votes).
- Planning Board: Michael Caruso was elected to a 4-year unexpired term (1,032 votes).
- Moderator: John Graves (1,078 votes).
Election Results: Narragansett Regional School District (NRSD)
- NRSD-Templeton: Shawn Case (965 votes) and Yasmine Khdeer (778 votes) were elected to the two available seats.
- NRSD-Phillipston: Several unexpired terms and a full term saw no formal candidates, with votes distributed among write-ins and blanks.
Drug Bust 5-18-26 (5/18/2026)

Feds Nab 18 in Multi-State Gardner MA Drug Bust

An unusual Federal Bust has nabbed18 Defendants on various charges in conjunction with an alleged drug trafficking and money laundering scheme including 9 from North Central MA. According to the Press Release, the scheme was coordinated by a man in Gardner. See Press Release from the U.S. Department of Justice.

Gardner is a landscape of brick facades and quiet residential streets that suggest a slow, predictable rhythm of life. But according to federal investigators, that mask hid a sophisticated multi-state narcotics engine. On May 18, 2026, the Department of Justice shattered this image of small-town peace with the announcement of a massive takedown: 18 individuals arrested across seven states, all linked to a narcotics trafficking and money laundering syndicate. This was not a street-corner operation; it was a sprawling criminal enterprise that allegedly utilized a local trade business to bridge the gap between small-town North Worcester County and the distant shores of Hawaii.

The Unlikely Hub: Why Gardner, Massachusetts?

In the world of high-stakes drug trafficking, major urban ports and border cities are the expected nodes of power. Yet, federal authorities allege that the “nerve center” of this conspiracy was nestled in the heart of Gardner. At the center of the indictment stands Hai Son Pham, a 39-year-old Gardner resident who allegedly directed a network that metastasized across the country.

The reach of this organization was counter-intuitive, proving that in the digital and logistics-heavy modern era, a kingpin can operate from a quiet suburb as easily as a skyscraper. According to the charging documents, the network managed logistics and distribution across eight different states: “Massachusetts, New Jersey, Florida, Oklahoma, California, Texas, Washington and Hawaii.” By centering operations in North Worcester County, the organization likely sought to exploit the lower profile of a small community, effectively “hiding in plain sight” away from the high-intensity federal task forces that saturate major metropolitan hubs.

To the neighbors, it was likely just another local service provider—a commercial and residential painting company. But federal investigators allege that Infinite Painting, a business registered and controlled by Hai Son Pham, served a far more cynical purpose. The company is accused of being the primary vehicle for laundering drug proceeds through multiple financial institutions.

In the analytical view of a financial crimes investigator, a painting company is a brilliant, albeit “boring,” choice for a front. These businesses are cash-intensive, have fluctuating material costs, and utilize a rotating labor force—variables that provide the perfect cover for blending illicit drug profits with legitimate revenue. This was not a simple “cash-under-the-mattress” scheme; it was a calculated attempt to exploit the banking system’s compliance thresholds by masking the origin of millions of dollars in narcotics transactions.

Diverse Inventory: From Cocaine to Counterfeit Pills

The scale of the “inventory” allegedly moved by the Pham organization suggests a high-volume pipeline capable of supplying diverse markets across the country. The Department of Justice alleges the conspiracy was responsible for distributing “large quantities” of substances that reflect both traditional demands and modern synthetic threats.

The identified substances include: Cocaine, Marijuana, Counterfeit pills, and other controlled substances. The presence of counterfeit pills is particularly telling. In today’s illicit market, these pills are often the delivery mechanism for high-potency synthetic opioids, signaling that the Gardner-based organization was tapped into the most dangerous and profitable sectors of the national drug trade.

The investigation was a masterclass in jurisdictional cooperation, led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the IRS Criminal Investigation unit, and the DEA. The sheer complexity of the takedown was illustrated by the involvement of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Massachusetts State Police, and a coalition of over 15 local police departments—including Worcester, Gardner, Leominster, Fitchburg, Clinton, Lunenburg, Hopkinton, Westminster, Ashburnham, Winchendon, Templeton, Phillipston, Boylston, Sterling, and Weymouth.

“United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement today.”
Boudreau 5-17-26 (5/18/2026)
Boudreau Proposes Specific Fixes to Chapter 70 Funding Formula

Former Gardner City Councilor, former Hubbardston Town Administrator, and Public Logic Founder Nathan Boudreau hasn’t won the seat in the 2^nd Worcester District yet. In fact, the primary is not until September. But, Boudreau is positioning himself to hit the ground running should he win with very specific proposals to help fix some funding issues in the 2^nd Worcester District. Read the Press Release of May 17, 2026, CLICK HERE. Note that in our graphic, Westminster is shown – it is in a School District with Ashburnham, but not part of the 2^nd Worcester District itself.

Gardner Magazine’s Max and Maxine Rogers debate the finer points of Boudreau’s proposal and their discussion explains things in a way we can all understand. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Nathan Boudreau Policy Proposals

State officials often celebrate “record-breaking” education investments, pointing to a statewide appropriation that has reached approximately $7.66 billion. But in the 2nd Worcester District, those press-release victories feel like a different language. While the capital celebrates, our local school committees are forced to make agonizing cuts to staff and programs.

This disconnect isn’t a matter of local mismanagement; it is a structural failure written into the code of the state’s Chapter 70 funding formula. Nathan Boudreau, a candidate for State Representative and a public policy analyst, recently went through the formula line by line to audit its impact on our specific towns. His conclusion is clear: “Structural problems require structural solutions.” To fix a system that is mathematically designed to leave small-city and rural districts behind, the person we send to Boston must be a worker-candidate who can “show the work” on day one.

Boudreau has drafted five specific, unfiled amendments that address the formula’s core failures. Crucially, these require no new taxes and do not take money away from other districts; instead, they utilize existing “Fair Share” revenue—the millionaire’s tax surtax already earmarked for education in the state budget.
- Hold-Harmless Transparency (Cost: <$50K): Amends c.70, s.6 to require the state to publish the inflation-adjusted erosion data it already calculates, making the 38% loss of purchasing power a visible part of the budget debate.
- Enrollment Smoothing (Cost: $8–15M): Amends c.70, s.3 to use a three-year rolling enrollment average for districts under 1,500 students, preventing sudden budget shocks when a handful of families move away.
- RLC Growth Cap (Cost: $10–20M): Amends c.70, s.3 to cap required local contribution increases at the legal limits set by Proposition 2½, ending the “Perfect Storm.”
- Inflation-Indexed Minimum Aid (Cost: $0 new): Restructures the existing $52.2M Fair Share supplement to ensure that minimum aid growth is tied to actual inflation.
- Mandatory Formula Review (Cost: <$500K): Amends c.70, s.4 to force the Foundation Budget Review Commission into a permanent five-year cycle with a mandatory 180-day legislative response requirement.
The Local Impact: Real Numbers for the 2nd Worcester District

These aren’t just abstract policy goals; they represent a combined $2.57 million in additional aid for the schools. Gardner Magazine has offered to interview Nathan Boudreau about his plans and we will make that interview available to you as soon as we do it.

Vision Zero 5-13-26 (5/18/2026)

Update 5-20-26: This is the link to the Gardner Safety Action Plan page. It is loaded with information and Gardner Magazine highly recommends viewing it, CLICK HERE. Also, here is the form to sign up for the Mailing List, CLICK HERE.

Gardner Vision Zero Safety Action Committee 5-13-26

Road Safety Tool Compendium - Path to Vision Zero — Road Safety Tool Compendium – CLICK IMAGE for larger view

Committee Transitions from Data Analysis to Identification of Safety Countermeasures

The Gardner Vision Zero Action Committee meeting on May 13, 2026 made the transition from simply analyzing past data to proactive future safety measures. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Vision Zero Meeting 5-13-26

Central to the project is the development of a High Injury Network (HIN), which identifies specific roadway segments and intersections where fatal and serious injury crashes are concentrated.

Key findings indicate that speed is the primary factor affecting crash severity in Gardner, with data showing that a pedestrian’s survival rate drops from 95% at 20 mph to only 15% at 40 mph. Public outreach efforts have successfully garnered over 120 comments, highlighting critical safety concerns at intersections like Parker Street and West Broadway.

Moving forward, the committee aims to implement “demonstration projects”—specifically temporary speed cushions—to test the effectiveness of traffic calming measures before permanent installation.

The project is on track to produce a final Safety Action Plan by the end of the year.

**Architecture of Safety – CLICK IMAGE for larger view**

Technical Analysis Report 2021-2025 — **Technical Analysis Report – CLICK IMAGE for larger view.**

Key Public Concerns

Route 2: Cited as unfriendly for bicyclists.
Speeding: Specifically noted along Pearl Street (near schools) and Chestnut Street.
Pedestrian Facilities: Lack of adequate crossings at West Broadway and Timpany Boulevard.
Driver Behavior: Confusion regarding yielding at the intersection of West, Parker, and Oak Streets.

Primary Roadway Segments of Concern

Segment	Crash Statistics	Key Contributing Factors
Timpany Blvd	333 total crashes; 8 vulnerable users	Wide roads, failure to yield, improper lane use.
Main Street	215 total crashes; 13 vulnerable users	High pedestrian volume, careless operation, speeding.
West Broadway	65 total crashes; 3 fatal injuries	Sight distance issues, sidewalk gaps, speeding.
Pleasant Street	39 total crashes; 5 vulnerable users	Inattention, disregard for traffic signals.

Critical Intersections

Parker, Oak, and West Streets: 67 crashes, including 3 serious injuries. Issues include rear-end collisions near crosswalks and challenging geometry.
Timpany Blvd at West Broadway: 64 crashes. Identified lack of pedestrian signal heads and insufficient “protected” crossing time (only 15–20 seconds).
Pearson Blvd at Elm Street: Concerns regarding a “protected” green arrow that may lead to driver inattention toward exiting vehicles and pedestrians.
Central St at Pine St: 17 crashes; 6 involving vulnerable users. Proximity to bus stops and visibility issues due to parked cars were noted.

Additional Resources

SS4A Program https://www.transportation.gov/grants/SS4A
Safe System Approach https://www.transportation.gov/NRSS/SafeSystem
Comprehensive Regional Safety Action Plan https://www.mrpc.org/safetyactionplan
VisionZeroNetwork https://visionzeronetwork.org/about/what-is-vision-zero/
City of Gardner Safety Action Plan Page: https://www.gardner-ma.gov/1512/Gardner-Safety-Action-Plan
To Contact City Engineer Rob Olivia directly via email: roliva@gardner-ma.gov

Top Movies – 100 Years (5/18/2026)

View our complete report page, CLICK HERE which contains a comprehensive analysis, identifies 7 Surprising Truths that defined cinema history, and an analysis of genre evolution. We also include infographics and a short VIDEO.

Gardner Magazine Reports – The Top Movies of the Last 100 Years

Our complete report page, CLICK HERE, examines various aspects of movies. If you love movies, this is for you. From the age of Silent Films to the age of Artificial Intelligence, movie making has evolved over the last 100 years.

Jump to a section: A Comprehensive Analysis of Cinematic Landmarks: From Silent Era Foundations to 21st-Century Classics — More Than Just Movies: 7 Surprising Truths That Defined Cinema History —-A Century of Cinema: A Decadal Analysis of Genre Evolution and Commercial Success (1920–2020)

Listen to this “Deep Dive” podcast with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device.

DEEP DIVE – Top Movies of the Last 100 Years

Listen to this “Debate” with Max and Maxine Rogers on any device.

DEBATE: Movie Mass Appeal vs. Artistic Innovation
Weekly Briefing 5-17-26 (5/17/2026)

A Weekly Briefing from Gardner Magazine – May 17, 2026

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the news of the week including Greater Gardner MA, North Central MA, the State of Massachusetts, National News, and World News. They tie it all together in a great podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Weekly Briefing 5-17-26

Gardner Magazine has 4 separate additional sections covering North Central MA News, a Massachusetts News Roundup, U.S. National News, and World News, all updated on May 17, 2026, this week with some additional infographics

JUMP TO SECTION: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week
Public Safety 5-15-26 (5/16/2026)
Fire, Police, Building, and Health Department Budgets and Initiatives Discussed at Public Safety Meeting

The Gardner Public Safety Committee met on May 15, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Public Safety 5-15-26

The Fire Chief highlighted the need for a new “floater” position to mitigate rising overtime costs and discussed critical facility repairs. Meanwhile, the Police Chief advocated for increasing the force to reach recommended staffing levels while addressing aging vehicle fleet concerns. Building and Health department heads also presented their funding requests, focusing on modernization through technology and necessary maintenance for the city’s landfill and public structures.
Budgetary Framework: The Mayor’s office utilized a three-tier budget request system (Wish List, 3% Non-Salary Reduction, and Level-Funded) to identify both operational necessities and ideal growth paths.
Personnel & Staffing: The Fire Department is proposing a new “floater” position to reduce long-term overtime, while the Police Department is seeking to move closer to FBI-recommended staffing levels.
Infrastructure Deficiencies: The Fire Department’s 50-year-old headquarters faces significant space, contamination, and gender-privacy issues. Similarly, the Health Department reported that the transfer station facilities are “decomposing” and rodent-infested.
Equipment & Modernization: There is a strong emphasis on transitioning to PFAS-free protective gear for firefighters and a request from the Police Department to shift cruiser replacements from sporadic “free cash” funding to a predictable annual budget item.
Environmental Liability: A high-priority request of approximately $250,000 was made to address erosion at the capped landfill to prevent accruing daily fines from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson provided an overview of the preliminary FY27 budget process. Key financial principles guiding the current cycle include:
- Level Funding for Open Contracts: Departments with active collective bargaining negotiations are level-funded for those specific line items. Appropriations will be adjusted once contracts are signed.
- Professional Development Uniformity: The city is working toward a consistent system across all departments for professional development and travel line items to ensure equity and oversight.
- Three-Tier Submission: Department heads were required to submit three scenarios:
  1. Wish List: Funding required for optimum efficiency and effectiveness.
  2. 3% Non-Salary Reduction: Potential cuts to operating expenses.
  3. Department Request: A level-funded budget necessary to maintain current FY26 operations.
Fire Department and EMS Analysis: The Fire Department’s submission emphasized a shift toward proactive staffing and the remediation of hazardous facility conditions.
- New Floater Position: The Mayor and Fire Chief Greg Lagoy proposed funding a “group floater” (private-level firefighter). Historical data from a 2013-2014 study suggests this position pays for itself by reducing the need for overtime to cover sick leave and vacancies.
- EMS Coordinator: Currently a “collateral job” stipend position, the Chief and Mayor agree this should eventually become a full-time role to manage reporting requirements. However, the Mayor is deferring this change until the next ambulance contract is finalized to ensure revenue stability.
- Overtime Realities: The department requested $400,000 for overtime, which is considered the minimum required to backfill short-term leave, assuming no long-term vacancies or injuries occur.
- PFAS Remediation: The department has successfully disposed of PFAS-containing foam. New turnout gear orders are now “PFAS-free” to reduce carcinogen exposure, though this adds approximately $600 in cost per set.
- Apparatus Maintenance: Repair costs are rising due to increased labor rates and parts costs for aging vehicles.
- The 50-year-old fire headquarters was identified as inadequate in several areas.
- Contamination Risks: Lack of dedicated decontamination zones forces firefighters to store gear in living quarters, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
- Gender Inclusivity: The facility lacks adequate private bathroom and shower facilities for female employees, with only one shared multi-bay bathroom on the second floor.
- Capacity: The department still utilizes the deteriorating South Gardner station for storage because the main headquarters cannot house all apparatus and trailers.
Police Department: The Police Department’s budget focus remains on addressing a long-term staffing deficit and modernizing fleet management.
- Staffing Levels: The department is currently budgeted for 33 officers. Police Chief Eric McAvene noted that FBI recommendations suggest the city should have in the mid-40s. A “wish list” request for seven additional officers was made to reach a total of 40.
- Domestic Violence Advocate: This position is funded by a year-to-year grant. The Chief highlighted its criticality, noting that the advocate has a 75% engagement rate with victims, a level of follow-up that uniformed officers cannot provide.
- Recruitment: The department has seen a recent uptick in highly qualified and diverse applicants for open academy slots.
- Aging Fleet: The department is operating cruisers from 2018 and 2019 that run 24/7.
- Funding Shift: The Chief requested that cruiser replacements (averaging 80,000–90,000 per outfitted vehicle) be moved to a recurring budget line item rather than relying on irregular “free cash” appropriations.
- Assessment Centers: Since moving out of Civil Service, the department utilizes assessment centers for promotions to ensure a fair, “double-blind” process, costing approximately $6,500 per group.
Building Department Modernization
- Structural Separation: A long-term goal is to separate the Building Department from Public Building Maintenance to improve operational focus.
- Technology Upgrades: The department is pushing for field technology (tablets) and online systems for the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to reduce paper costs and streamline resident interactions.
- Fee Structure: Building Commissioner Melissa MacDonald noted that current permitting fees do not adequately cover inspectional and administrative costs, suggesting a future proposal for fee adjustments.
Health Department and Solid Waste
- Transfer Station Degradation: Health Director Lauren Saunders described the current scale house as “decomposing” and rodent-infested. A request for $50,000 was made to replace dilapidated sheds with a single container-office to provide basic climate control and hygiene for staff.
- Landfill Erosion: A critical request for $250,000 was submitted to repair significant erosion at the capped landfill. This project was deferred last year to handle an emergency pump repair. The DEP is currently monitoring the site, and further delays could lead to daily fines.
- Administrative Anomaly: The Director noted that it is a “rarity” for a Health Department to oversee a capped landfill, a task typically handled by the Department of Public Works (DPW).
Hubbardston Select Board Votes on Administrator (5/16/2026)
Listen to the meeting of May 15, 2026 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Hubbardston Select Board 5-15-26

If you wish to listen to the interviews with all 3 candidates, here is the meeting of May 11, 2026, ,CLICK PLAY.

Hubbardston Select Board 5-11-26
Hubbardston Select Board Chooses Alex MaGee for Town Administrator

At the Hubbardston Select Board meeting of May 15, 2026, The Board voted 3-1 to offer the position to Alex MaGee, (pictured) subject to contract negotiations and a comprehensive background check.

The Board rejected a prior motion for Gardner City Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas (1-3) who was one of the three final candidates from an original field of over 70 applicants.

Regarding Alex McGee, The Board highlighted his Master of Public Administration, his experience as a Finance Director (Hamilton), and his roles in larger municipalities like Andover, Arlington, and Lowell as positive factors in making the choice.

Negotiation Strategy:
- a conditional offer was sent via email immediately following the vote offering the position of Town Administrator to Alex McGee.
- The Board will use historical TA contracts as a template for negotiations.
- The Board rejected a proposal to have a subcommittee negotiate, opting instead for a full Board executive session to ensure transparency and consensus on salary (advertised range: $130,000–$150,000) and benefits.
Hotline 5-16-26 (5/16/2026)

The WGAW Hotline Show of May 16, 2026 featured a commentary by Werner Poegel on the Gardner Landfill. It is provided separately for your convenience.

WGAW Hotline Radio May 16, 2026

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

WGAW Hotline Radio 5-16-26

First up: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson’s FULL May Update –

“The Dump” – Commentary by Werner Poegel featuring the $10 sticker deal going on right now through the end of June and a complete report on the Gardner Landfill and how it all works.

—Community Event Announcement with Steve Wendell – –Host Steve Wendell interviewed Steve Schultze from the Berkshire Veterans Outreach Center, Schultz is a retired marine who served from 1997 to 2019 and then retired. Upon retirement, Schultze founded the Berkshire Veterans Outreach Center. Website, CLICK HERE.

Mike Urban Commentary on the State Audit Issue —-An Interview with Mayor Michael Nicholson from the May 9^th Show. —Mike Urban on Overrides from past show.

Here’s that commentary on “The Dump” with Werner Poegel, listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

THE DUMP – Commentary from Werner Poegel 5-16-26
One Hit Wonders (5/15/2026)

An interesting experiment. What are the 1 Hit Music Wonders going back 300 years? Visit the complete page of reports covering the period of 1702 to 2026, CLICK HERE.

One Hit Music Wonders – 1702 to 2026 – A Gardner Magazine Report and Experiment

The One Hit Music Wonder: Does it Date Back to Before Recorded Music? Gardner Magazine went back 300 years to before the American Revolution and has a complete page of reports by time period, infographics, a Deep Dive, a Debate, and a Video. It’s a cool, interesting topic.

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

DEEP DIVE – One Hit Wonders

Listen to a “Debate” with Max and Maxine Rogers on what constitutes a “One Hit Wonder” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Defining One Hit Wonders

Defining a one-hit wonder requires a rigorous analysis of chart data. While the general public often uses the term colloquially, music historians and analysts utilize specific—and sometimes conflicting—technical criteria to categorize these artists. Visit the complete page of reports covering the period of 1702 to 2026, CLICK HERE.
Rail Trail Closures Effective 5-18-26 (5/15/2026)

National Grid Closing Right of Way and Rail Trail

The City of Gardner announced that National Grid will be closing the right-of-way and the rail trail located within it beginning Monday, May 18, 2026. The public is advised to avoid the Heywood Brook and Rail Trail, beginning at Green Street and continuing through Park Street to the Crystal Lake Substation, for the duration of the closure. The closure is expected to remain in effect through Spring 2027. Additional information about the work being performed and updates on the closure timeline will be shared as it becomes available.

Upcoming work beginning May 18, 2026:

Mowing: Vegetation management crews will be working within the National Grid right-of-way using large equipment to clear vegetation in preparation for surveying. Surveying: Survey crews will place stakes along the right-of-way.

Public Safety Notice: For your safety, please use public pathways with caution. If you encounter posted signs indicating you are approaching the close right-of-way, do not proceed – please turn around. While there are many trails in the wooded areas of Gardner, the public is advised to avoid the Heywood Brook and Rail Trail, beginning at Green Street and continuing through Park Street to the Crystal Lake Substation, for the duration of the closure.

Contact Information: If you have any questions or would like additional information, please reach out to the project engagement team by calling this toll-free Hotline: (844) 500-3536.

Heywood Safety (5/14/2026)

Once again, another accolade contributing to Gardner’s distinction as the “Model City for America” as Heywood Healthcare is featured as a great model for patient safety by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine. Congratulations, Heywood Healthcare! Copy of above graphic in printable letter size, CLICK HERE.

Heywood Healthcare Featured for Quality and Safety

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady speak of Heywood’s culture of excellence in healthcare in the context of Heywood being featured in the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine’s Spring 2026 Quality and Patient Safety Newsletter. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Heywood – Excellence in Safety – Spring 2026

Here’s a copy on PDF of the State Newsletter in which Heywood is so prominently featured, CLICK HERE.

Heywood Healthcare posted: “We’re proud to share that Heywood Healthcare has been featured in the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine’s Spring 2026 Quality and Patient Safety Newsletter! This issue highlights important work across the Commonwealth, including our contribution, “From Compliance to Learning: Strengthening Safety through Transparency.” It reflects our continued commitment to building a strong safety culture, fostering transparency, and learning from every experience to improve patient care.”

Purpose of the State Report: This report from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine examines patient safety data collected throughout 2025 to improve healthcare quality across the state. The findings highlight that while most reported incidents resulted in temporary harm, critical issues remains regarding surgical complications, diagnostic delays, and medication errors. Analysis reveals a concerning demographic disparity, noting that while minority populations often face higher risks, they are frequently underrepresented in voluntary safety reporting. The document also identifies communication breakdowns as a primary driver of adverse events and advocates for increased transparency and safety culture within medical facilities. By sharing these trends and specific case data, the Board aims to foster a collaborative environment where providers can learn from mistakes to prevent future medical errors.

Why Heywood’s Inclusion is so Prestigious

The “Spotlight on Quality & Patient Safety,” issued by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine (BORIM) Quality & Patient Safety Division (QPSD), represents the high-authority benchmark for clinical excellence within the Commonwealth. For healthcare leadership, a feature in this publication is a significant strategic validator, signaling that an organization’s Patient Care Assessment (PCA) programs—spanning quality assurance, peer review, and risk management—are not merely functional, but exemplary.

The QPSD’s role is to provide the “ground truth” for safety standards, serving as both a regulator and a collaborative partner in clinical improvement.

“QPSD Mission is to assist Massachusetts healthcare facilities in maintaining and improving systems for patient care that are evidence and team-based, sustainable, safe, and inclusive. We achieve this by reviewing data, listening, collaborating, and educating teams in healthcare facilities throughout the state.”

The prestige of Heywood Healthcare’s feature in the Spring 2026 edition is contextualized by a high-stakes, high-volume data landscape. In CY 2025, the QPSD managed 583 Safety & Quality Review (SQR) reports documenting 692 unexpected events. Critically, these 583 reports—which notably exclude aggregate patient falls and pressure injuries—mark the second-highest volume of reporting in nearly a decade, surpassed only by the 589 reports filed in 2019. In an environment of such high clinical volatility, Heywood Healthcare has distinguished itself not just by reporting data, but by providing a strategic blueprint for cultural evolution.

The Heywood Culture of Excellence Revealed in Detail

Heywood Healthcare’s evolution reflects a transition from rigid accountability to a sophisticated model of shared responsibility:

Legacy Compliance Approach	Modern Learning Culture
Focus on “What is Required”: Viewing reporting solely as a regulatory obligation.	Focus on “Why it Matters”: Emphasizing the purpose behind the standard to drive safety.
Individual-Focused Accountability: Identifying a person to blame for clinical deviations.	Shared Responsibility: Integrating “Just Culture” to explore system-wide factors.
Defensive Reactivity: Protective behavior during event reviews and investigations.	Productive Peer Learning: Open discussions focused on identifying system vulnerabilities.
Transactional Reporting: Filing data points to meet state-mandated deadlines.	Philosophical Integration: Diving into the “why” behind the safety philosophy.

This cultural shift is operationalized through the Just Culture Decision Tool. By integrating this framework into Root Cause Analyses (RCAs) and Peer Learning Discussions, Heywood has successfully neutralized the fear of retribution. This is a direct strategic response to the current clinical climate; as BORIM’s CY 2025 Patient Safety Alert highlights a statewide trend in communication and coordination breakdowns, Heywood’s move to lower defensive barriers serves as a prerequisite for solving the very transparency issues currently challenging the Commonwealth.

Heywood as a Benchmark for the Commonwealth in the “Model City for America”

Heywood Healthcare’s feature in the Spring 2026 Spotlight reinforces its status as a leader in patient safety within Massachusetts. In an era where SQR reporting volumes are at near-historic highs, Heywood’s decision to dive into the “why” behind their safety philosophy distinguishes them from the hundreds of other facilities merely reporting data. They have moved beyond the baseline of compliance to provide a roadmap for true systemic resilience.

Another positive development at Heywood

Life Flight will be landing much closer to the Heywood ER with the new helipad at the hospital in Gardner. The goal is to improve response times and streamline critical patient transfers. In the past, Life Flight has landed at MWCC and the Gardner Municipal Airport. Operational start date will be announced soon.

Planning 5-12-26 (5/14/2026)
Master Plan Adopted by Planning Board After a Year of Work

The Gardner Planning Board officially voted to adopt a new Master Plan at the May 12, 2026 meeting, replacing the previous document dated from 1974/1975. The plan was facilitated by the Barrett Planning Group and funded by a grant from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. Development of the plan began in April 2025. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Planning Board 5-12-26

The Master Plan was developed utilizing staff – board – and committee interviews, community surveys, public workshops, drop- in events, and public comments. The Master Plan is centered on a 20-year vision for the City of Gardner emphasizing a sense of community in maintaining the existing social fabric, natural resources -protecting open spaces and recreation areas, affordable housing in addressing the need for diverse housing options, and balancing growth with preservation such as revitalizing the Downtown Gardner area and encouraging new business while protecting Gardner’s historical architecture and “sense of place.”

The Master Plan identifies several challenges and opportunities that transcend specific departments:
- Economic Transition: Acknowledging the loss of the industrial core and the need to replace “missing pieces of previous employment opportunities.”
- Demographic Shifts: Addressing an aging population and a decrease in new families moving to the area.
- Sustainability and Resilience: Integrating modern environmental standards into city planning.
- Outside Funding: A continued reliance on state and federal grants for project implementation.
Other meeting topics and actions: Officials approved a site plan for a new convenience store and gas station at 677 Timpany Boulevard, (Walmart) contingent upon specific environmental and drainage requirements. . Additionally, the board appointed a representative to a regional transportation committee and announced the upcoming review of a five-year housing production plan.
Economic Development 5-13-26 (5/13/2026)

The Department of Community Development and Planning directed by Jason Stevens received considerable praise at this meeting.

Department Praised for Efficiency and Success

Listen to the entire meeting on any device. (Note AUDIO drops out at about the 3 minute marked due to a technical glitz) CLICK PLAY.

The Gardner Economic and Community Development meeting on May 13, 2026 focused on the fiscal year 2027 budget and major local infrastructure updates. City officials celebrate a $7,600 net decrease in the department’s budget, attributed to a strategic restructuring of staff and creative management of termination leave funds.

Key project updates include the official resolution of compliance issues at Maki Park and the progress of the Rear Main Street revitalization, which aims to improve downtown parking and utility access. The discussion highlights the department’s success in securing over $2.4 million in grants, effectively bringing in ten times more revenue than its operating costs.

Additionally, the committee reviewed social service achievements funded by CDBG grants, such as providing essential aid to low-income residents and victims of domestic abuse. The meeting concludes with praise for the department’s efficiency and its ability to maintain high levels of service despite a challenging economic climate.
Finance 5-12-26 (5/13/2026)

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

Finance Committee 5-12-26

Finance Committee Meets on Budget Matters

The Gardner Finance Committee meeting held on May 12, 2026 primarily focused on reviewing departmental budget proposals for fiscal year 2027. City leadership, including the Mayor and various Department Heads including Director of Purchasing Joshier Cormier, HR Director Amanda Morse, Assessor Christine Kumar, and DPW Director Dane Arnold, discussed specific fiscal needs such as staffing changes, equipment acquisitions, and the management of employee salary increases amidst ongoing union negotiations.

Key administrative adjustments were proposed, including the consolidation of professional development funds to improve transparency and a plan to level-fund certain line items until contracts are finalized. The committee also evaluated capital improvement projects, such as roof repairs and accessibility upgrades at municipal buildings, utilizing unexpended bond proceeds.

Additionally, the session addressed proposed water rate hikes, resulting in an amendment to implement more gradual increases to alleviate the financial impact on residents. Finally, the members reviewed routine administrative matters, including unpaid bills and compliance filings, before recommending several measures for full city council approval.
To Bee or Not to Bee (5/13/2026)

View our complete article page with complete narrative, infographics, and more. Listen here to the “Deep Dive” podcasts and watch the short produced video. Bees are important.

BEE Populations in Decline – What’s Being Done

Gardner Magazine has a complete report on the critical role of pollinators. Bee populations in the U.S. are in steep decline with bee keepers losing 30% of colonies since 2006. The State of Massachusetts is taking action. Gardner Director of Public Health Lauren Saunders has informed us of Gardner actions. —- CLICK FOR OUR COMPLETE PAGE.

Listen to this “Deep Dive” regarding the declining Bee population on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Bee Population in the United States

Listen to this “Deep Dive” regarding the preservation of Bees in the State of Massachusetts. “Saving Bees with Lazy Lawns.” CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Saving Bees with Lazy Lawns

This produced Gardner Magazine video “To Bee or Not to Bee” covers the issue and the solutions being implemented in the State of Massachusetts.

This article examines critical role of pollinators and the concerning decline of their populations across the United States. These animals, including managed honey bees and thousands of native species, contribute billions of dollars to the economy by supporting the production of fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Researchers have identified several primary stressors responsible for these losses, such as habitat destruction, pesticide exposure, climate change, and the spread of pathogens. In response, federal agencies and academic institutions are developing conservation strategies, including clean stock certification programs and habitat restoration initiatives. These efforts are essential to protecting food security and maintaining the health of diverse natural ecosystems. Ultimately, the texts emphasize that community involvement and scientific research are vital to ensuring these indispensable species thrive in the future.

Key Actions Taken in Massachusetts

Pesticide Restrictions (2021): The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources restricted the consumer sale and use of certain neonicotinoids on lawns, gardens, and ornamental plants, becoming one of the first states to take this action.

Encouraging Native Plantings: State programs emphasize planting native flowers, trees, and shrubs that provide nectar and pollen throughout the entire growing season to support at-risk species.

Municipal Action Plans: Nearly half of Massachusetts’ municipalities are implementing pollinator-friendly policies, such as changing lawn management to “lazy mowing” (allowing clover/dandelions to grow) and creating designated pollinator spaces.

Update 5-15-26 11:30am: What’s Being Done Locally

Gardner Director of Public Health Lauren Saunders has informed Gardner Magazine that she is on the board of Keep MA Beautiful. Saunders stated: “We actually have an initiative around this exact issue. We award grant money to chapters and organizations that apply. The money awarded supports the planting of pollinator-friendly plants and tress in public spaces. Locally, Keep Gardner Beautiful has been a recipient of this grant, I believe in 2024 we were awarded and we built the pollinator garden May 2025, right at the Woodland and Green St. intersection. Dianne LeBlanc from KGB also has a plan to do little mini pollinator Garden kits to hand out this spring.”

Saunders also gave us some information regarding mowing: “As far as mowing, many municipalities throughout MA (Gardner included) prohibit grass, weeds or other vegetation from growing taller than 12 inches in residential areas, as exceeding this height can be considered a nuisance. My recommendation is to create a bee-friendly space without letting your yard turn into something the neighbors complain about. Design a controlled intentional pollinator zone that looks tidy, while still giving the bees a place to gather nectar, pollen and water as needed. A win for yourself, your neighbors, and the bees!“

Plant Some Bee-eautiful

Keep Mass Beautiful has a dedicated web page on this issue, CLICK HERE. 12 Grantees received Plant Something Bee-eautiful grants in 2025. “These grants support the planting of pollinator-friendly plants and trees in public spaces. Our goal is not only to beautify public spaces, but also to restore critical habitats for pollinators.”
City Council 5-12-26 (5/13/2026)

Gardner City Council Hears Budget Presentation

The Gardner City Council met on May 12, 2026 and heard the School Budget presentation in a lengthy meeting. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Gardner City Council 5-12-26

Superintendent Dr. Mark Pellegrino and financial officials outline a significant $793,000 funding gap driven by rising healthcare costs, special education transportation, and the loss of one-time federal ESSER funds. To address this deficit, the school department has implemented $1.5 million in cuts, including the restructuring of Gardner Academy and the elimination of various teaching and administrative roles. While the district is outperforming state averages relative to its high-need student population, leadership warns that continued minimum state funding will eventually decimate educational systems.

City Council members expressed concerns regarding long-term financial forecasting and the sustainability of recent staffing increases amidst declining student enrollment.

The meeting concludes with a call for increased collaboration and proactive planning to prevent future fiscal crises. Specifically, Council President George Tyros called for joint sessions between the City Council and School Committee to establish proactive structural solutions before the next budget cycle.
Board of Health 5-11-26 (5/13/2026)
Board of Health Discusses “Presby System” and Landfill Challenges During Meeting

The **Gardner Board of Health convened on May 11, 2026, to address several municipal infrastructure and public health matters. A significant portion of the meeting involved approving a local upgrade for a failing septic system on Otter River Road, utilizing a specialized Presby system to manage groundwater constraints on a narrow lot.

Department updates highlighted ongoing landfill repairs, including pump installations and necessary electrical overhauls, alongside the successful collection of over 37,000 liquor nips during the Keep Gardner Beautiful city litter cleanup.

The board also discussed the upcoming opening of Joy Bakery and Market in Union Square, recent tobacco control violations, and progress on staff training certifications. Finally, the members formalized their leadership by electing Dr. Michelle Parker as Vice Chair and scheduled their next session for late June.

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

What is a Presby System – An Explanation

A Presby septic system is an innovative, passive, onsite wastewater treatment system that uses special, geotextile-covered pipes surrounded by sand to treat effluent, often requiring a smaller footprint than conventional systems. These systems are highly efficient—removing up to 99% of contaminants—and operate without electricity, pumps, or motors

Landfill and Transfer Station Operations

Progress on the landfill pump project has been met with both success and the discovery of legacy infrastructure issues.
- Pump Project Status: All new pumps, control panels, and electrical components were operational as of May 6, 2026.
- Identified Deficiencies:
  - Cell 1: The primary pipe failed a pressure test; further investigation is required to locate potential cracks or seam failures.
  - Cell 2: Level sensor wiring requires replacement to enable automatic pump operation.
  - Flow Meters: Wiring for flow meters in Cells 1, 2, and 3 is faulty and needs replacement.
- Funding: These unforeseen underground issues will necessitate a change order and a request for additional funding.
- Transfer Station Safety: The department is pursuing a safety railing project and exploring the creation of a “Safety Coordinator” stipend position to ensure compliance with state-mandated OSHA standards.
License Commission 5-12-26 (5/13/2026)

Licenses Approved and Loopholes Discussed

The Gardner License Commission met on May 12, 2026 and approved a seasonal license for Home Fruit Wine to participate in the local farmers market and authorized managerial changes at Hannaford Supermarket.

Additionally, the commission finalized a license transfer for the South Gardner Hotel and granted a one-day permit to Moon Hill Brewing for a recurring community event.

The members also discussed the pending status of a liquor license for Sawa Asian Cuisine, which remains under state review.

Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

License Commission 5-12-26

The “$50 Loophole”: Why Farmers’ Markets Use “One-Day” Licenses

A fascinating display of pro-business local navigation surfaced during a hearing for Home Fruit Wine, a vendor based in Orange, MA, looking to join the farmers’ market at 62 Waterford Street. On paper, a seasonal vendor should typically hold a seasonal license. However, the commission opted for a series of six “one-day” licenses for the upcoming dates of May 16, June 20, July 18, August 15, September 19, and October 17.

This isn’t a clerical error—it is a strategic maneuver to circumvent a state-level fee bottleneck. The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) mandates a statute that caps certain license fees at $50. By issuing multiple one-day licenses rather than a single seasonal permit, the commission effectively sides with the small business, keeping costs at $50 instead of the $300 that a different permitting process might trigger.

The “Sample, Don’t Stroll” Rule at Farmers’ Markets

In a moment that revealed even regulators must occasionally learn the nuances of the law in real-time, one commission member admitted to having “never seen that before” while inquiring about alcohol handling at the Waterford Street market. The resulting clarification established a sharp line between retail sales and public consumption.

The commission confirmed that while Home Fruit Wine is authorized to provide small samples at their booth and sell sealed bottles “to go,” the market is not a licensed “roped-off area for drinking.” The rule is precise: customers may sample the product at the point of sale but are strictly prohibited from “walking around with a glass of wine” through the market aisles.
Conservation 4-27 and 5-11 (5/12/2026)

Listen to the April 27th meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Conservation 4-27-26

Listen to the May 11th meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Conservation 5-11-26

Two Meetings: Conservation Commission Gardner MA

April 27th:

At the April 27th meeting, the Conservation Commission updated hearing dates for several local projects, including the sludge landfill and properties on Linwood and Crawford Streets. Significant discussion involved the certificate of compliance for a property on Watkins Road, where members noted that historical utility work had naturally integrated back into the environment over two decades. An agent report provided updates on erosion control measures at the North County Land Trust and the monitoring of potential vernal pools and invasive species. Additionally, the board acknowledged local Earth Day volunteer efforts, specifically the massive collection of litter by the Keep Gardner Beautiful group.

May 11th:

The Gardner Conservation Commission meeting on May 11th revolved around ongoing environmental and land-use projects within the city. Key discussions involved remediation efforts at 36 Nicole Terrace, where members debated the slow pace of manual log removal from a sensitive wetland area. The commission also reviewed a revised duplex construction plan on Conan Street, focusing on protecting the 60-foot no-build zone through improved staking and erosion controls. Additionally, representatives for a Green Street property presented plans for a new public water supply well, seeking a procedural amendment to their existing permits.
Sicko Teens Throw Spikes (5/12/2026)

SICKO Teens Throw Railroad Spike, Almost Killing Driver, But Get Away

A pair of Sicko Teens on e-bikes were apparently throwing railroad spikes from the side of the road on Route 2 last week in Gardner MA. One railroad spike went through the windshield of a vehicle, almost killing the driver, who is from Royalston. The incident is under investigation by Gardner Police and State Police. Anyone with information on the identity or whereabouts of these criminal individuals are urged to call local or State Police. Someone could have been killed. According to various reports, the teens are known troublemakers who ride their e-bikes in the area.

The teens fled from the scene of the crime prior to police arrival. The driver was quoted as saying: “I look behind me and there are these two kids about 80 feet behind me, behind the guard rail, and they were still throwing stuff around. So I knew instantly it was them,” The victim was covered in glass but had no major injuries.

The driver told WBZ-TV that he has a message for the two teens: “Stop. You’re going to get someone killed. It’s not worth getting in trouble. If my son or my wife were in the vehicle, things could have been a lot worse,”

Publisher’s Note: Gardner Magazine will update you when there is an official update from the Gardner PD or State PD. Attention: Parents, neighbors, friends of these 2 individuals: Turn them in before they kill someone with their reckless actions, please.
School Committee 5-11-26 (5/12/2026)

Listen to the School Committee Final Comments from the May 11th meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

FINAL Comments 5-11-26

We also have a separate article on the recognition of 4th grade students, CLICK HERE.

School Budget passed at School Committee Meeting – Now on to City Council

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

The Gardner School Committee meeting held on May 11, 2026, primarily focused on the presentation and unanimous approval of the FY2027 school budget. The district finds itself in a paradoxical position: it is achieving “outlier” academic success—particularly at the high school level—while operating on one of the leanest budgets in the Commonwealth. Gardner currently ranks 14th from the bottom out of 215 districts in terms of funding, spending only 101.3% of the state-mandated minimum net school spending, compared to a statewide average of 139%.

Despite significant increases in “high needs” student populations (low income, disabilities, and English Language Learners), the district faces a $793,669 revenue shortfall for FY2027. To address this, the administration has implemented a drastic reorganization, including the closure of Gardner Academy as a standalone entity and its relocation to Gardner High School. This move, along with other personnel reductions, resulted in the cutting of 18 positions (reduced to 10 actual staff losses through attrition) to offset skyrocketing costs in transportation (up 220% since 2024) and health insurance (up 62% since 2024).
4th Graders Praised in Gardner (5/12/2026)

4th Graders Redefining Leadership in Gardner MA

4th Graders were recognized at the School Committee meeting of May 11, 2026. Here the comments on any device, CLICK PLAY.

4th Graders Recognition 5-11-26

In the world of education, we often speak of students as “future leaders,” as if their capacity to impact the world is a dormant seed waiting for a high school diploma or a college degree to bloom. However, watching the 4th Grade Student Council stand before the committee, it became clear that leadership in Gardner isn’t a future milestone—it is a present-day reality.

These ten-year-olds aren’t just participating in a school club; they are managing professional-level responsibilities that have fundamentally shifted the school’s culture and its relationship with the city.

The 4th Grade Student Council’s partnership with the Gardner Community Action Committee (CAC) is a masterclass in meaningful civic engagement. Their work went far beyond the typical “canned food drive” seen in many elementary schools. While they did coordinate a Thanksgiving food drive, sold raffle tickets during the GES Harvest Festival, and organized a holiday toy drive, it was the method of their service that stood out.

The students performed “social due diligence.” They didn’t just drop off boxes; they interviewed the director of the CAC to understand the specific needs of their neighbors. This intentionality ensures that their service isn’t just a chore, but a deeply understood mission. As Superintendent Mark Pellegrino noted during the meeting: “Appreciation is something that they’re doing every day just by showing up and working hard. That hard work pays off for the entire community and you make Gardner Public Schools a much more special place.”

Listen to the short AUDIO or view the infographic for more details on these exceptional 4th graders in the Gardner Public Schools
Water Ban 2026 (5/11/2026)

Gardner MA Nonessential Outdoor Water Use is Banned Again

The City of Gardner has announced that a nonessential outdoor water use ban is in effect from 9am to 5pm daily. That means that you can still operate a lawn sprinkler, wash your car, or even wash your building or parking lot, but you must do it before 9am or after 5pm.

The water ban is based on streamflow readings. If you’d like to check on streamflow measurements for anywhere in the lower 48 United States, here is the link for the USGS National Water Dashboard, CLICK HERE. The National map shows a huge variance in status. Red or yellow dots would trigger a water ban in the affected areas.
Weekly Briefing 5-10-26 (5/10/2026)

A Weekly Briefing from Gardner Magazine – May 10, 2026

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the news of the week including Greater Gardner MA, North Central MA, the State of Massachusetts, National News, and World News. They tie it all together in a great podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Weekly Briefing – 5-10-26

Gardner Magazine has 4 separate additional sections covering North Central MA News, a Massachusetts News Roundup, U.S. National News, and World News, all updated on May 10, 2026

JUMP TO SECTION: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week
Gardner Transfer Station May 2026 (5/10/2026)
For a printable letter size version of the article graphic above, CLICK HERE.

Discounted Gardner Landfill Stickers: Orange Transfer Station Stickers are currently discounted to $10 and cover the period of now through the end of June, 2026. For more information from the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE.

Listen to the original song about the Gardner Landfill – “The Dump” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

CLASSIC ROCK – FUNK – The Dump
Talking Trash – 2 Months of Dump Use for the Price of 1 Day in Gardner MA

Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” podcast with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady giving you a guide to Smart Waste Disposal in Gardner MA. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Transfer Station Guide Gardner MA

Orange Transfer Station Stickers are currently discounted to $10 and cover the period of now through the end of June, 2026. For more information from the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE. It’s a great time to do that basement cleanout!

Residents must obtain an annual permit sticker for $30, which allows for the free disposal of recyclables like paper, glass, and yard waste. However, disposing of household trash and bulk items such as appliances, furniture, and mattresses requires prepayment of specific fees. Crucially, the facility does not accept any payments on-site; instead, users must pay via the online portal or with cash or check at City Hall. Those who pay online are required to bring a printed receipt to present to the station attendant. The guidelines emphasize that the site is strictly for residential use, prohibiting any waste generated by commercial activities.

Board of Health Office Hours (City Hall):
- Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The Gardner Landfill: 744 West Street, Gardner, MA Weekly Operating Hours

Day Hours
Wednesday 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sun / Mon / Tue CLOSED
Westminster Update 5-9-26 (5/9/2026)

More details on the Town Crier Episodes 23, 24, and 25 plus the Westminster Town Meeting of May 2, 2026 are provided in the infographics below. CLICK on either image for a larger view.

Westminster Update: Town Meeting Results, Town Crier Episodes 23, 24, and 25.

Listen to the episodes starting with the latest episode 25 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Town Crier Episodes 25, 25, and 23

Westminster Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen covers Strategic Preparations, Governance, fiscal stewardship, municipal outcomes and summer operations during 3 episodes of the podcast “Town Crier”

On May 2, 2026, Westminster residents convened for the Annual and Special Town Meetings to chart a definitive fiscal and operational trajectory for the community. With the approval of a budget exceeding $30 million, the meeting served as more than a routine administrative gathering; it provided a roadmap for how the town will balance its deep-rooted local traditions with the pressing demands of modern infrastructure. These votes represent a calculated investment in the town’s future, prioritizing both human capital and technological modernization to sustain Westminster’s high quality of life.
Hotline Radio 5-9-26 (5/9/2026)

City and Town Budgets Focus of Hotline Radio Show of May 9, 2026

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

Hotline Radio 5-9-26

First up on the show: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Topics covered: School Budget is finalized, public hearing Monday 6pm in City Council Chambers. The Mayor noted that Gardner has a single tax rate for residential, business, and industrial property to encourage business to come to Gardner. —-The electric rate in Gardner — A discussion of energy including nuclear and nuclear fusion — Status of the Landfill — Safety Action Plan to Reduce Traffic Fatalities — Gardner Senior Center — Gardner Youth Center – Gardner Recreation Program — Concerts at Monument Park — National Day of Prayer — Light the Town Purple Event – Gardner Relay for Life — Music Boosters Theme Basket Day — Water Ban Issued Yesterday

Other segments on Hotline: Mike Urban – Overrides in Massachusetts and Proposition 2 ½ Law — Werner Poegel Report and Commentary: Templeton and Winchendon Budget Decision Time – Override and Debt Exclusion Discussion. —-Stephanie Lahtinen, Westminster Budget and Town Meeting Takeaways, Town Crier Episode 25 Lahtinen gave a full recap of Town Meeting and covered municipal items and upcoming town events.
Gardner CAC 5-9-26 (5/9/2026)
The Gardner CAC – Lessons From a Week of Dedicated Community Compassion

In the quiet corners of Gardner MA, a rhythm of service often hums along unnoticed until the week’s end when the tally is finally taken. This past week at the Gardner Community Action Committee was far from routine; it was a high-octane demonstration of what happens when a community decides to stand in the gap for its neighbors. While the rest of us navigated our daily commutes and personal errands, a dedicated network of volunteers and staff moved with urgent purpose, fueled by a mission to provide a lifeline to those living on the edge.

The scale of local need is often invisible, tucked away behind closed doors or masked by the standard bustle of small-town life. Yet, a single seven-day snapshot reveals a staggering level of activity that challenges our assumptions about “hidden” poverty. How does one organization touch the lives of hundreds in such a short span? The answer lies at the intersection of logistical grit and deep, dedicated compassion.

As we pull back the curtain on these seven days, we see more than just a distribution of goods. We see a new driver facing an immediate trial by fire behind the wheel of a medical van, and we feel the literal warmth of 150 meals served at the Fellowship Table. By looking closely at the data, we move past abstract statistics and begin to see the breathing, human stories that define our collective social fabric.

429 Neighbors: The Staggering Logistics of Local Hunger

The most striking figure from the past week is the sheer volume of individuals seeking basic sustenance. The Food Pantry provided essential groceries to 160 households—a logistical feat that ensured 429 of our neighbors did not go hungry.

To visualize the intensity of this effort, consider the rhythm of that labor: nearly 60 people served every single day, or one neighbor assisted every few minutes of the operating day. This is not merely a matter of “stocking shelves.” It is a constant, physical motion of heavy crates, meticulous sorting, and the intense coordination of resources to ensure that every family left with a full bag. These 429 individuals represent a cross-section of our community whose weekly stability was secured through a single, vital point of contact.

The Trial by Fire: Two ‘Firsts’ and a Medical Van

Community advocacy is rarely predictable, and the frontline of service often demands an immediate “trial by fire” mentality. This week, that grit was personified by the agency’s new Medical Van driver. In their very first week on the job, the driver was met with two unprecedented scenarios—agency “firsts” that had never been encountered before.

In the world of social impact, these are the moments where the weight of responsibility can feel overwhelming. Yet, the resilience required for this work prevailed. Despite these daunting obstacles, the driver remained steadfast. The keys remained in their hand—a silent, powerful promise to the community that they aren’t going anywhere.

“A huge round of applause for our new Medical Van driver! After navigating two ‘firsts’ for our agency in their very first week—scenarios we’ve never even had to address before—they are still here and haven’t turned in the keys!”

Restoring Dignity: A Multi-Layered Lifeline

A robust safety net must be multi-layered to be effective, because poverty is rarely a singular problem. It is a complex web that impacts everything from physical health to personal self-worth. Over these seven days, the committee addressed these layers with precision:
- The Clothing Closet: 146 individuals found more than just shirts and coats; they found the dignity that comes with having the right attire for an interview, a school day, or a cold morning.
- Emergency Assistance: Beyond the pantry, emergency vouchers were issued to 7 households, providing a critical safety net for 24 people facing immediate, destabilizing crises.
- The Fellowship Table: The week culminated with the serving of 150 warm meals. Here, the impact transcended nutrition—it was about the smiles and the social connection that remind those in need that they are seen and valued.
By offering this holistic range of aid, the organization ensures that the support provided is as diverse and nuanced as the lives of the people walking through the door.

The Pulse of Compassion: Beyond the Calculation

At the heart of this high-volume week is a core philosophy: data must never obscure the individual. While it is necessary to track households and vouchers, the organization operates on the belief that the true value of the work lies in the connection between the server and the served. This “pulse of compassion” is what transforms a simple transaction of goods into a transformative act of community.

When an organization prioritizes the person behind the number, the work becomes sustainable. It shifts from a logistical burden into a shared mission that connects the entire ecosystem—from the board of directors and donors to the volunteers standing on the front lines.

“This work isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the people behind them and the compassion that connects us all. We truly couldn’t do this without you. Whether you donated your time, your resources, or your support—thank you for helping us help our neighbors.” – Gardner CAC

A Reflection on the Quiet Heroes

The achievements of this single week are a testament to the collective power of community action. This impact is the result of a dedicated ecosystem involving partner agencies, staff, tireless volunteers, and generous donors. It is a living proof that when resources and empathy are aligned, the effect on local lives is both immediate and tangible. Congratulations to the Gardner CAC in all that you do. For those who wish to contribute to their efforts in a financial way, here’s a link to the donation page, CLICK HERE.

This is an organization worthy of your support. Werner Poegel – Publisher
UFO Files Released (5/8/2026)

Here’s a link to our complete page with multiple reports on this topic, CLICK HERE.

Gardner Magazine reports on Flying Saucers – Aliens – Extra-Terrestrials, Unexplained Aerial Phenomena

The U.S. Government has released many thousands of files related to UFOs and other mysterious related phenomena. Gardner Magazine used 5 separate file dumps from the U.S. Government to generate these reports: (Section 2,3,4,5,and 10) To download the original material yourself and hundreds more files, visit the official site, CLICK HERE.

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady explain as much of it as they can in this podcast, Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Extraterrestrials and UFOs

Max and Maxine Rogers debate whether the evidence proves the existence of extraterrestrials in this Debate, Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Do Extraterrestrials Exist?

Jump to various reports on the complete page: FBI Briefing: Synthesis of Investigative Records on Unidentified Flying Discs (1947–1948) —- The Hoover Files: 5 Surprising Takeaways from the FBI’s Early “Flying Disc” Archives —Aviation Observation Guide: Identifying Early Aerial Phenomena (1947–1948) —- Intelligence Synthesis Report: 1947-1948 Aerial Phenomenon and Official Intelligence Responses —-Evidence Evaluation Primer: The 1947–1948 “Flying Disc” Files —-Administrative Case Narrative: The Bureaucratic Architecture of FBI File 62-HQ-83894 (1947-1948) —- Technical Assessment of the 1947–1948 “Flying Disc” Phenomenon: Evidence and Counter-Explanations
GPS Budget Preview (5/7/2026)

Gardner School Budget Review – Timetable for the Week Ahead

The Gardner School Committee will meet on Monday May 11, 2026 at 6pm in the City Council Chambers. There is open time for the General Public to speak and a Public Hearing on the FY2027 School Budget. Public Comments are solicited in the agenda for the posted meeting. Following input from the public, there will be a vote on the School Budget. Agenda and packet.

The Gardner City Council will meet informally on the School Budget the following day, Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 7:30pm in the City Council Chambers. There will be a School Budget presentation. Time is not allotted for the general public. Public input is reserved for the day before. Agenda and packet.

The Gardner City Council meets again in a regular meeting on Monday, May 18th at 7:30pm in the City Council Chambers. It is expected that reports of the subcommittees which have been meeting regarding various Department budgets will be heard and the overall budget will be discussed. Agenda and packet for this meeting would usually be posted on May 14th.

GPS BUDGET EXPLAINED on VIDEO

Gardner Magazine has prepared this 6 minute PREVIEW VIDEO for you to watch prior to attending the School Committee meeting. It will give you a concise, but very clear and easy-to-understand picture of the GPS Financial issues despite very prudent spending practices.

The Gardner Public Schools (GPS) FY2027 budget presentation will outline a critical intersection between rising student needs and severe fiscal constraints. While the district reports improving academic outcomes and stabilizing school choice numbers, it faces a projected $793,669 funding shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year. This gap persists despite a proposed reorganization and reduction of 18 total positions (including administrators and teachers) intended to save approximately $1.49 million. The district’s financial challenges are driven by systemic cost increases—specifically a 220% rise in Special Education transportation and a 62% increase in employee health insurance since FY24—compounded by the fact that Gardner’s Net School Spending (NSS) remains the 14th lowest among 215 Massachusetts school districts. Total Enrollment: After a peak of 2,532 students in FY25, enrollment for FY26 stands at 2,470. Gap between “receiving” and “sending” students has narrowed significantly over the last decade, moving from a high of 301 sending students in FY18 to nearly equal numbers in FY25 (167 receiving vs. 163 sending).
Public Service 5-7-26 (5/7/2026)

Budget Discussions Dominate Public Service Committee Meeting

The Gardner Public Service Committee met on May 7, 2026 and spent a considerable amount of time discussing DPW and infrastructure. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Public Service 5-7-26

The focus was on preliminary FY2027 department budgets and infrastructure updates. Committee members discussed a proposed 20% water rate increase intended to fund emergency repairs and address long-deferred maintenance for the city’s aging water system. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson outlined his budgetary process, explaining the distinction between departmental “wish lists,” realistic operating needs, and mandated reduction scenarios. Significant dialogue centered on the Department of Public Works, specifically regarding the high costs of maintaining an aging vehicle fleet and the legal complexities of budgeting for snow and ice removal. Additionally, City Engineer Rob Oliva provided updates on federal environmental mandates related to storm water and the ongoing efforts to sell surplus municipal land to boost local tax revenue.
City Clerk Search (5/7/2026)

Next Meeting is Tuesday, May 12th at 8am to finalize the City Clerk and Assistant City Clerk job descriptions.

Recruitment to Replace Outgoing Gardner City Clerk Underway

The Gardner City Clerk Recruitment Committee met on May 7, 2026. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Clerk Recruitment Meeting 5-7-26

On May 7, 2026, the Gardner Special Search Committee for the City Clerk convened to initiate the recruitment process for a new City Clerk and Assistant City Clerk. The urgency of this committee is driven by the upcoming departure of the current Clerk, Titi Siriphan, effective July 2, 2026.

The primary objective of this meeting was the detailed review and modernization of job descriptions originally established in 2015. Key takeaways include a move toward more flexible supervisory language, the formalization of the Clerk’s role as the Records Access Officer (RAO), and the inclusion of legislative expertise—specifically Robert’s Rules of Order and state statutes—as a core competency. The committee emphasized the need for consistency between the Clerk and Assistant Clerk roles regarding educational requirements and professional certifications, such as Notary Public status and Massachusetts Municipal Clerk certification.
Airport 5-6-26 (5/7/2026)
Administrative Disputes, Projects, Agreements, Finances, and Maintenance Topics of Airport Commission

The Gardner Airport Commission met on May 6, 2026. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Airport Commission 5-6-26
- Governance Crisis: Evidence was presented suggesting that two sitting commissioners have been voting without valid appointments since March 2025, potentially rendering a year’s worth of Commission actions illegal.
- Project Status: Federal environmental reviews for airport improvements are nearing completion, and a 100% state-funded Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) is being initiated to streamline future maintenance and permitting.
- Contractual Disputes: Negotiations with the Boston RC Jet Club have stalled over “bailout” clauses and payment structures, with commissioners expressing frustration over the club’s perceived lack of commitment.
- Operational Health: Fuel sales for April 2026 resulted in a net return of $2,664.44 to the city, while essential equipment maintenance (mowers and hangar doors) was completed to prepare for the summer season.
The Gardner Magazine Wildlife Cartoon is presented here due to some very real wildlife sightings on or near the airfield. The Gardner Airport Commission emphasized the need for continued monitoring due to the following:
- Bear: Spotted via camera near the fuel farm at 9:00 PM.
- Bobcat: Sighted on the south end of the field.
- Snapping Turtle: A “giant” turtle was removed from the runway.
Wildlife commonly spotted at municipal airports around the country includes birds—specifically gulls, geese, starlings, and raptors like hawks and owls—along with mammals such as deer, coyotes, rabbits, and foxes. These animals are attracted to the expansive open, grassy spaces and, in some cases, coastal locations that resemble habitats
Gardner PD Adds Team Member 5-7-26 (5/7/2026)

Officer Derek Wight Sworn in to the Gardner PD on May 7, 2026

Gardner Police Department Adds Team Member – Mayor and Other Officers Show Support.

The newest member of the Gardner Police Department is Officer Derek Wright. Both Gardner Police Chief Eric McAvene, Deputy Chief Nicholaus Maroni, and other officers were on hand for the swearing in which took place at Gardner City Hall. The oath of office was administered by City Clerk Titi Siriphan. Gardner Mayor Nicholson posted photos and stated: “Congratulations to Officer Derek Wight on being sworn in as the newest member of the Gardner Police Department!”
Gardner Senior Center May 2026 (5/7/2026)
Chair Man and Chair Lady Recognize Gardner Senior Center Fulfilling
“Connection and Purpose” Mission

The May 2026 Gardner Senior Center Newsletter is covered. Listen to this “Deep Dive” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Deep Dive – Gardner Senior Center May 2026

For this month’s newsletter on PDF CLICK HERE. Bookmark this website link as you can sign up for automatic email delivery of the monthly Newsletter link, CLICK HERE.

The Gardner Senior Center, operating under the mission of “Connection & Purpose,” has established a robust May 2026 schedule centered on holistic wellness, civic engagement, and community building. This period is characterized by a strategic move “Beyond the Medical Model,” highlighted by a cornerstone workshop on “Soul Care” led by Sarah Gaer, MA.

A Vital Hub: The center continues to serve as a vital hub for Gardner’s aging population, providing a diverse array of services ranging from nutritional support (SNAP/HIP) and health advocacy (SHINE, Medicare advising) to innovative recreational programming like the 3rd Annual Patriotic & Summer Sing-A-Long and the “Great Hobby Horse Derby.”

The Gardner Senior Center maintains a dedicated focus on veterans and national heritage through social and musical events.
- Vet-to-Vet Café: A recurring program (e.g., Tuesday, May 19) providing a light lunch and a forum for veterans to share information and conversation.
- 3rd Annual Patriotic & Summer Sing-A-Long: Scheduled for the Wednesday preceding the July 4th holiday, featuring “The Gardner Area Strummers and Friends.”
- Memorial Day Observance: The center will be closed on May 25, 2026, in observance of the holiday.
Gardner Graham St. Fire (5/6/2026)

Fire Crews Spent Just Under 5 Hours at Graham Street Fire

A fire shortly after noontime on May 5, 2026 caused considerable damage to a building at 45 Graham Street in Gardner. According to the Gardner Fire Department, “Crews arrived to find heavy fire on the second floor, extending to the third and attic. Crews made an aggressive interior attack to knock down the fire in the upper stories. Flying embers started a small fire between two garages on Vernon St. that was quickly handled. Cover companies responded to several calls , including a small brush fire at Pearly Brook Reservoir. All companies cleared the scene at 17:12 hours.”

Mutual aid to the scene: Ashburnham, Hubbardston, Templeton, Westminster, Winchendon, Athol, Fitchburg and Leominster. Devens, Rutland and Sterling covered Gardner HQ.

All building occupants made it out safely without injury. However, 2 pet cats were not located. Cause of fire is under investigation and was not immediately determined.
MWCC HS Art 40th (5/6/2026)

MWCC Hosts 40th Annual Exhibition of High School Art at the East Wing Gallery

According to Joyce Miller, Chair of the Art Department and Gallery Director at MWCC, “This exhibition is one of our most popular and meaningful community events. For 40 years, it has provided an opportunity to celebrate the work of high school students and recognize the dedication of their teachers, families, and supporters.“

The 40th Annual Regional Exhibition of High School Art held in the East Wing Gallery showcased exceptional student work from eight area high schools, highlighting the creativity, dedication, and artistic achievement of young artists across the region. The exhibition featured a diverse collection of two- and three-dimensional works, including ceramics, painting, drawing, and mixed media.

Participating schools included Athol High School, Contoocook Valley Regional High School, Fitchburg High School, Leominster High School, Quabbin Regional High School, Ralph C. Mahar Regional High School, Shepherd Hill Regional High School, and Wachusett Regional High School.

During the exhibition’s awards ceremony, ten students received cash awards for outstanding artistic achievement. Works were evaluated based on originality, technical skill, and creative expression.

2026 Award Winners: Aidan Marony, ConVal Regional High School — Wheel-thrown ceramic bottle — Lucy Morris, ConVal Regional High School — Ceramic lidded vessel —Erin Sargent, Leominster High School — Narrative watercolor illustration — Brynn Dunphy, Quabbin Regional High School — Geometric assemblage wall piece — Romelle Romey, Shepherd Hill Regional High School — Still life painting — Alaiza Wijangco, Shepherd Hill Regional High School — Collage (grizzly bear and salmon) —Julia Daly, Wachusett Regional High School — Carved ceramic vase — Bianka Mazierkowski, Wachusett Regional High School — Portrait — Dahlia Vargas, Wachusett Regional High School — Charcoal drawing — Allison DeLeire, Wachusett Regional High School — Painting (girl in pink dress) — The MWCC Art Club also selected Alaiza Wijangco for its special Art Club Award.

MWCC extended its appreciation to Chrystal Voorheis, administrative assistant, and Kevin Oxford, gallery assistant and MWCC alum, for their contributions to organizing and installing the exhibition. “The quality of work in this year’s show was exceptional,” Miller added. “We are continually inspired by what students and educators accomplish, often with limited resources. We hope this experience encourages students to continue pursuing their artistic passions.”
Crabby Old Man Syndrome (5/5/2026)

How Councilor Calvin Brook’s Crabby Old Man Syndrome Melted Away

These are the comments of Councilor Brooks during the City Council meeting of May 4, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Calvin Brooks Comments 5-4-26

Thank you, Mr. President. I’m just thinking that there’s a lot going on in the world today. We’ve got wars in Iran, Gaza, Ukraine, dysfunctional Congress, gas prices, sports. We can talk about the Bruins, the Celtics, and the Red Sox. Personally, the construction on Elm Street that seems to be all happening at the end of my driveway. And all these thoughts were going through my head a week ago, Saturday, while picking up beer cans and bottles, Dunkin’ Coffee cups and nips on about 100 yards on West Street next to the transfer station. I kept thinking, why do people from Templeton have to throw their trash out their car windows? As a kid, I remembered the public service campaign against litter. Litter bug, litter bug, shame on you. My crabby old man syndrome was kicking in.

So as I drove away from the cleanup day at the transfer station, I began to think about why I was there. Not the why answer of my picking up litter, but the why answer of someone in this community who thought the litter should be picked up and so organized the event. They did it to make this community better. A couple of days later, I saw a story in the Gardner News about the efforts to bring back the baseball diamond at Stone Field for Babe Ruth play. I remember the years of care that Steve Zoldack gave to that field, and I started to feel good about my community. Tonight we shared, in the kickoff for the Relay for Life, another locally organized event that is successful because of the hard work of the organizers and the participants. Here in this room are people spearheading things like the downtown flower pot program, assisting with overdose awareness in August, and helping youth sports programs in the city. The more I thought about all this volunteer work, all the people who stepped forward to fill a need, the more my crabby old man syndrome melted away.

In many communities, members are only too willing to step back, take it easy, and to complain. We here in Gardner are all extremely fortunate to live in a community like this one, where members are willing to step forward, to do some work, and to give back. That spirit of giving back, of looking out for each other, is what makes this community so special. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to do just that. I applaud your work and am proud to live in Gardner. Thank you. – Gardner City Councilor Calvin Brooks
Upcoming Winchendon Town Meeting 2026 (5/5/2026)

A Discussion and Review of the Upcoming Winchendon Town Meeting May 18th

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the upcoming Winchendon Town Meeting to be held on May 18, 2026. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Discussion re Winchendon Upcoming Town Meeting

The Town of Winchendon’s Annual Town Meeting, scheduled for May 18, 2026, encompasses 29 articles addressing the fiscal year 2027 (FY27) budget, significant capital infrastructure projects, and administrative authorizations.

The primary financial highlights include a General Government operating budget of $20,770,350 and a School Department budget of $18,667,547. A critical focus of this warrant is the proposed replacement of roofs at three major educational facilities—Murdock Middle/High School, Memorial Elementary, and Toy Town Elementary—with a combined estimated cost exceeding $27.8 million, largely funded through debt exclusion and potential Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) grants which may pay for about 70 percent of the cost.

Other significant items include a $500,000 appropriation for a new ambulance, the utilization of Free Cash to address FY26 deficits (specifically $400,000 for snow and ice), and two citizen petitions aimed at tax reduction and stricter property-based code enforcement.
City Council 5-4-26 (5/5/2026)

Transitions, Planning, and Oversight Focus of Gardner City Council

The Gardner City Council met on May 4, 2026. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 5-4-26

The Gardner City Council meeting held on May 4, 2026, focused on critical administrative transitions, budgetary planning for Fiscal Year 2027, and the ongoing oversight of municipal services.

Key developments include the formal initiation of a search for a new City Clerk following the resignation of City Clerk Titi Siriphan and the approval of a preliminary City Council budget that introduces a dedicated technology replacement fund of $2000 to ensure equipment remains up to date. City Clerk Titi Siriphan was formally acknowledged for her dedicated service to the community.

A significant portion of the session was dedicated to reviewing the Lifeline Services program, which, while projected to yield a surplus by the end of the fiscal year, remains under scrutiny regarding staff bandwidth and the fact that only 20% of subscribers are Gardner residents. Monthly revenue is $2500 against $1400 in expenses, currently carrying a light deficit due to billing backlog. Total subscribers: 69, 16 of which are Gardner residents.

Additionally, the Council addressed a jurisdictional debate concerning the supervision of specific department heads (Clerk, Auditor, and Treasurer/Collector), emphasizing the City Charter’s role in maintaining checks and balances regarding executive authority. Council President George Tyros reported on a consultation with the DLR. The conversation raised “technicalities” and concerns regarding actions taken—and not taken—by the city’s legal team. Further discussions, possibly in executive session, are anticipated.

There was an update on the Gardner Community Youth Center which had unique monthly visitors increase from 35 in January to 55 in March and the hiring of an Assistant Director. Additional state funding for the next year was secured through the efforts of State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik.
Council on Aging 5-4-26 (5/5/2026)
Senior Center Budget and Preparation for the Summer Move to Waterford

The Gardner Council on Aging met on May 4, 2026. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Council on Aging 5-4-26

The budget was discussed during this lengthy Council on Aging meeting on May 4th and our infographic below provides some detail

The logistics of relocating to the Waterford Community Center was discussed. It will be a 90 day relocation plan and include choosing neutral color palettes and hiring specialized movers for the pool tables. The Council has contacted seven moving contractors and received four quotes. Selection will be based on qualifications and past experience rather than just the lowest bid. Workspace: The new “bullpen” for staff and volunteers is a 36×20 room, providing significantly more space than the current cramped quarters at Pleasant Street.

Duration of Move to Waterford Community Center: Movers estimate the physical move will take two to three days. The Senior Center expects to be closed for a total of two weeks to facilitate packing and unpacking.

Specialized Handling: Pool Tables: A specialized company will be hired to move, level, and re-felt the tables, as standard movers do not provide this service. IT and High-Tech Equipment: The City IT department will handle the move of computers and production equipment. Liquids: City staff must move all liquids (paints, waxes, degreasers), as commercial movers refuse to transport flammable or potentially damaging fluids.

A color palette has been selected by a committee, focusing on “age-friendly” and inviting tones.
- Palettes: The design utilizes dark gray trim and light gray lower walls for durability. Upper walls will likely feature beiges, yellows, or “off-white” (tan) to maximize natural light.
- Debate over Blue: While some members suggested blue, the Director argued against it, citing it as too dark and uninviting for the space.
- Natural Light: The new facility has numerous windows and skylights. The Council intends to remove plastic window tints installed by the previous school tenants to embrace natural illumination.
- Furniture: The Council is modernizing its footprint by replacing “1930 vintage” cabinets with newer models.
Also provided were updates on community programming including memory cafes, caregiver support workshops, and upcoming seasonal outings.
Model City – Global (5/4/2026)

Gardner’s Model City Distinction Going Global

It was only a matter of time when search engines across the globe would pick up on the City of Gardner’s “Model City for America” status. Gardner Magazine has previously outlined via the Fiscal6.com Project, CLICK HERE, the various strategic initiatives put forth by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and his team to excel in so many different areas to cumulatively achieve this distinction. We provide as evidence PDFs of searches on google, bing, and yahoo to show the national recognition of Gardner as the “Model City for America.” Going further we know that even the Russians recognize the achievement as demonstrated by the Yandex search attached. The only holdout right now is Baidu-China with over 1 billion people still in the dark about Gardner MA and its status.

The Evidence on PDF “What City is Recognized as the “Model City for America” in MA?

Google Search — Bing Search — Yahoo Search — Yandex Search (Russia) — Baidu Search (China)

Gardner Magazine’s congratulates the various Gardner teams which have contributed to this high honor (and we apologize in advance if we’ve left out anyone) The Mayor of Gardner Michael Nicholson for his outstanding leadership, the Gardner City Council for its insistence on transparency and excellence in Government, the Gardner DPW for being at the top of its game regarding water, sewer, and other infrastructure under its purview, Economic Development for its attention to buildings and land whether it be public or private, the Gardner Police Department which has helped to reduce crime by almost half through various initiatives smartly executed, and the Gardner Fire Department for proactively focusing on safety, and the Gardner Public Schools under the leadership of Dr. Mark Pellegrino for lifting each student up to their highest level of possible achievement through individual efforts like the Gardner Academy, English as a 2^nd language efforts for non-native speakers, and providing college opportunities for higher achievers. All the efforts of these municipal heroes have combined to create the scenario resulting in Gardner’s recognition globally as the “Model City for America.”
Mayor on Electric (5/4/2026)

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Explains the 1.2 cent Electric Increase to Residents

We have a Press Release from the Mayor and a spreadsheet which explains and illustrates the issue even further. We thank the Mayor for his usual transparency. CLICK FOR SPREADSHEET. This is a follow up to a related article, CLICK HERE.

Press Release from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on May 4, 2026: “Good Morning, Over the weekend the City received questions regarding the City’s electrical aggregation program and a change in rate that was reflected on several rate payer’s bills. This was looked into this morning and the information is found in below in this email.

As you are likely aware, the City of Gardner signed a municipal electrical aggregation contract with “First Point Power” that is in effect until November 2028.

This contract locks in electrical rates for those in the City who participate in the electrical aggregation program, but contains one clause that allows for variability in costs due to a new regulatory requirement to account for the Day-Ahead Ancillary Services Initiative (DASI) program.

DASI is a new program created by ISO‑New England, the independent/private organization that manages the electric grid for our region. Its purpose is to make sure the grid has enough backup resources ready one day in advance to keep electricity reliable. To put this into relatable terms, this can be compared to the grid setting aside emergency supplies ahead of time instead of scrambling at the last minute during times of emergency or high usage. As the grid changes due to more fluctuations in supply, it becomes more important to plan ahead. DASI intended purpose is to help ensure the grid can respond quickly if demand goes up or a generator goes offline.

Since this program is still new, the City’s contract with First Point Power had a clause requiring any DASI Cost Recovery Fees to be variable. Since DASI costs are based on the previous month’s cost data, it can fluctuate depending on how much energy is being used by the grid. Due to the extreme cold days we saw in January, the DASI costs increased exponentially as people were using more electricity to heat their locations. As a result, those cold days triggered the clause in the City’s contract that required rates to increase to recover the DASI costs expended by First Point Power for the City. This led to an increase in electrical rates in the City’s municipal aggregation plan from $0.13931/kWh to $0.15152/kWh for the remainder of the City’s current electrical aggregation contract- an increase of $0.01221/kWh. All other companies that bid on the City’s electrical aggregation service for this contract also included this clause as a requirement in their proposals as well.

This increase is being reflect in the latest round of electrical bills that many are seeing now.

As always, the City’s electrical aggregation contract has provisions that allow unlimited free opt-in/opt-out if rate payers find a cheaper provider with a different carrier. The only requirement with the City’s electrical supplier is to provide 5-days notice. It is worth noting however, that while the City’s electrical aggregation contract allows for an unlimited free opt-in/opt-out, other suppliers may have clauses in their contracts that create fees on that supplier end if someone wants to leave their program for the City’s program.

Even with the increase, the City’s electrical aggregation rate still falls under the average electrical provider rate currently available. The attached spreadsheet is the latest quarterly report the City has received relating to our electrical aggregation program. The first tab, “Gardner Aggregation Report” provides a breakdown in information for the third quarter of 2025. The second tab, “Gardner Detail,” provides a full description of cost and usage since the City’s electrical aggregation program began in November 2017. From November 1, 2017 through September 30, 2025 (latest data we have from DPU and our Energy Consultants) Gardner rate payers have saved $4,596,739 through the City’s electrical aggregation program compared to the average private supplier rates during the same period.

Best, Mike Nicholson”
Eat What You Want – Original Song (5/3/2026)

Gardner Magazine Releases a song for May 11th’s Eat What You Want Day

Listen to this original song on any device, CLICK PLAY.

CLASSIC ROCK – FUNK – Eat What You Want

It may be a ridiculous day, but it’s there nevertheless. So we thought we’d make fun of the day with a ridiculous fun song.

From the song: “Gotta have a burger, Gotta have some fries, Could have chose other, But my stomach cries. … Eat What You want, Forget about the calories, Ignore your petty worries, Just eat what you want. …When the pounds pile on, Blame not the television, When the pounds pile on, Blame your poor decision. “

Note: Song is best listened to when you have just smeared fresh pizza over your shirt from being a slob.
Electric Rates Up – Gardner (5/3/2026)
Gardner Magazine is publishing a very complete set of information here in this article regarding the reasons for the electric rate increase in Gardner despite a plan which runs through 2028.

Electric Rates Up in Gardner MA Despite 3 Year Plan – Here’s Why…

First Point Power Rate Adjustment – Electric Rates up 1.2 cents per kilowatt hour – Average bill up about $7.33. Rate increase notice on PDF, click here.

Effective with the March 2026 meter reads, the City of Gardner provider implemented a rate adjustment to its municipal electricity aggregation program. The rate will increase from $0.13931 per kWh to $0.15152 per kWh, an increase of $0.01221 per kWh. This adjustment is the direct result of a “regulatory event” involving the ISO-NE Day-Ahead Ancillary Services Initiative (DASI), a market restructuring approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

The adjustment is necessitated by actual DASI costs significantly exceeding the initial projections provided by ISO-NE. While the City’s Electric Service Agreement (ESA) included a cost estimate of $6/MWh for these services, actual market costs reached as high as $48/Mwh (just under 5 cents per kilowatt hour) in January 2026. Despite this increase, the program continues to offer competitive rates compared to National Grid’s Basic Service and has saved residents and small businesses over $4.5 million since its inception in 2017.

Overview of Rate Adjustments: The rate change is scheduled to remain in effect for the duration of the current contract term, which concludes in November 2028.

Financial Impact on Consumers: Based on an average monthly usage of 600 kWh, the rate adjustment will result in a monthly increase of approximately $7.33 for typical residential customers.

Competitive Market Comparison: The new aggregation rate remains lower than the National Grid Basic Service rates fixed for the period of February 1 through July 31, 2026:

Service Type Adjusted Aggregation Rate National Grid Basic Service
Residential $0.15152 per kWh $0.15372 per kWh
Commercial $0.15152 per kWh $0.14493 per kWh

The Regulatory Catalyst: ISO-NE DASI: A “regulatory event” is defined as an action or change by a regulatory authority that causes a direct, material shift in costs during the term of a power supply contract. In this instance, the event is the implementation of the ISO-NE Day-Ahead Ancillary Services Initiative (DASI), also referred to as DAAS.

Purpose and Function of DASI: DASI was designed to improve grid reliability, particularly as renewable energy sources become more integrated into the power system. Key features include:
- Co-optimized Market: It introduces a day-ahead market that simultaneously evaluates energy and ancillary services, replacing the former Forward Reserve Market.
- Targeted Compensation: It ensures resources providing essential services, such as operating reserves, are adequately compensated and financially obligated to perform.
- Efficiency: FERC approved the initiative to improve operating reserve resource readiness and day-ahead price formation.
Market Dynamics and Variability: DASI alters the market by reducing the reliance on fast-start generation assets and diminishing loads settled on the real-time market over time. However, it introduces a new component to the ancillary market designed to bridge the gap between supplier bids and expected demand. Because this component is set on the real-time market, it creates price volatility and increased costs during periods of high uncertainty, such as extreme weather events.

Analysis of Cost Discrepancies: The primary driver for the rate increase is the massive divergence between ISO-NE’s projected costs and the actual costs realized following the program’s implementation in March 2025.

Projected vs. Actual Costs : ISO-NE originally estimated DASI costs to range between $120 million and 150 million annually, which translates to approximately 1.00 to 1.25 per Mwh. The City of Gardner’s ESA factored in a more conservative estimate of 6.00 per MWh ($0.006 per kWh).

Actual market data revealed that these projections were insufficient: December 2025: Costs reached approximately $17/MWh. January 2026: Costs climbed to approximately $48/MWh.
Impact of Extreme Weather

The financial volatility of the new DASI structure was demonstrated during a severe cold snap in early 2026. On January 26 and January 27, the market incurred costs equivalent to two years of expected expenditures in only two days.

Contractual Authority and Program History

The rate adjustment is being implemented pursuant to a specific provision in the Electric Service Agreement (ESA).
- Hedgeability: Because DASI was a new program, the costs were initially “unhedgeable,” forcing suppliers to rely on ISO-NE guidance for estimates.
- Reconcilable Provision: The ESA included a fully reconcilable provision allowing for adjustments once actual costs were confirmed.
- Historical Performance: Since its launch in November 2017, the City’s electricity program has demonstrated significant value. Through September 2025, it has provided a cumulative savings of more than $4.5 million compared to National Grid Basic Service.
Future Outlook: The cost increases associated with DASI are not unique to the City of Gardner. All electricity suppliers in Massachusetts, including National Grid, are subject to this new market structure. Consequently, all ratepayers in the state are expected to experience impacts. Projections indicate that Winter Basic Service rates (effective August 1, 2026, through January 31, 2027) will likely remain elevated due to the ongoing influence of the DASI regulatory framework.
Weekly Briefing 5-3-26 (5/3/2026)

A Weekly Briefing from Gardner Magazine – May 3, 2026

The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the news of the week including Greater Gardner MA, North Central MA, the State of Massachusetts, National News, and World News. They tie it all together in a great podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Weekly Briefing – The Chair Man and the Chair Lady 5-3-26

Gardner Magazine has 4 separate additional sections covering North Central MA News, a Massachusetts News Roundup, U.S. National News, and World News.

JUMP TO SECTION: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week

The 5 Most Surprising Shifts Shaping Our World: A Week in Review (May 3, 2026)

1. Introduction: The Complexity of Now

The global news cycle of early May 2026 has reached a state of dizzying fragmentation, yet beneath the surface, a singular narrative of institutional erosion and systemic volatility is beginning to coalesce. This week, the public consciousness was asked to bridge the impossible gap between the mundane and the existential: from Gardner’s localized “Pothole Patrols” to the high-stakes geopolitical brinkmanship of the War Powers Resolution in Washington and Tehran. While these events appear disconnected—a municipal budget deficit here, a historic horse race there, a grounded airline everywhere—they are, in fact, the jagged edges of a rapidly reconfiguring reality. To look closely at this week is to see a world where the 20th-century social contract is being rewritten in real-time, signaling a shift from a society of mass accessibility to one defined by an “operational cliff.”

2. The War That “Ended” (But Didn’t)

We are currently witnessing a profound legal fiction intended to mask a kinetic reality. President Trump has officially declared that hostilities with Iran have “terminated,” a calculated maneuver timed precisely to coincide with the 60-day deadline of the War Powers Resolution. This declaration seeks to bypass the necessity for formal Congressional authorization, even as the administration pushes for a multibillion-dollar Pentagon funding infusion.

The friction between this “terminated” status and the ground truth is stark. While the White House signals an end to the war period, the Senate remains paralyzed, recently rejecting a resolution to remove U.S. forces. The global ripple effects are already devastating: Qatari liquefied natural gas (LNG) production has been suspended following drone attacks, and the U.S. has greenlit $8.6 billion in emergency arms sales to Middle Eastern allies. Perhaps most telling of the fracturing Western alliance is the President’s suggestion to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany and potentially pull forces from Spain and Italy as punishment for their vocal criticism of the conflict. Amidst the administration’s claims of peace, the sentiment from Tehran remains chillingly pragmatic; as one senior Iranian officer noted, “Renewed fighting is likely.”

3. The Sudden Grounding of the “Ultra-Low-Cost” Dream

The era of cheap, accessible air travel—an anomaly of the 2010s and early 2020s—effectively died this week with the total cessation of operations by Spirit Airlines. The collapse followed a failed $500 million White House bailout, leaving travelers at Logan International and regional hubs in a state of logistical paralysis.

Spirit’s demise is a direct casualty of a global energy crisis that has pushed Massachusetts gas prices to a staggering $4.15 per gallon. This “global supply crunch,” exacerbated by the ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, has rendered the low-cost carrier model a relic of a bygone era. This is not merely a corporate failure; it is the re-stratification of class mobility. We are returning to a “pre-jet-set” era where travel is once again a marker of elite status rather than a middle-class expectation. The dream of the ultra-low-cost flight has been grounded by the hard reality of 2026’s energy economics.

4. A Landmark Verdict for the Digital Generation

In a decision that likely signals the twilight of tech platform immunity, a jury has awarded $6 million in damages against Meta and YouTube. This landmark verdict was not about content moderation, but about the fundamental architecture of the digital world. The case, brought by a 20-year-old plaintiff, successfully argued that “social-media addiction” among adolescents is the result of deliberate design choices rather than accidental byproducts.

By focusing on the “product” itself, the court has signaled that the era of Section 230 serving as a total shield for Silicon Valley is ending. This ruling suggests that tech giants will now be held to the same safety standards as manufacturers of physical goods. The “signal” here is clear: the digital frontier is being forcibly tamed, and the cost of doing business in the attention economy is about to skyrocket.

5. The History-Maker at the 152nd Kentucky Derby

The sports world provided a rare moment of historic progress this weekend, though it was framed by the shadows of a restless labor force. Golden Tempo’s 23-1 longshot victory at the Kentucky Derby was a masterclass in performance, but the true story was in the winner’s circle: Cherie DeVaux became the first woman in history to train a Derby winner.

However, this cultural milestone stands in jarring contrast to the “May Day Strong” protests rippling through the nation. As DeVaux celebrated, thousands of workers took to the streets to protest the increasing use of AI algorithms to dictate unstable schedules for hourly employees—a technological grievance that is becoming the new front line of labor rights. This juxtaposition reveals the duality of 2026: pockets of historic individual achievement occurring against a backdrop of widespread institutional instability and a workforce increasingly at odds with the very technology supposed to optimize their lives.

6. The Invisible Crisis: The Healthcare “Operational Cliff”

While the headlines are dominated by drone strikes and airline collapses, the most impactful shift for the average citizen is the quiet transition of healthcare from a service to a luxury. In Gardner, Massachusetts, the school system is navigating a $1.5 million deficit—a crisis driven almost entirely by a 12.5% spike in health insurance costs. To balance the books, the city is now forced to consider significant staff reductions, a move that sacrifices the future of education to pay for the present costs of survival.

This local struggle mirrors a national “operational cliff” where insurance costs have doubled for those without subsidies, leading to a 26% drop in enrollment among those in their 50s and early 60s. There is a bitter irony in the math: while towns like Templeton face a $4 million override to keep their libraries and senior centers from shuttering, the nation approves $8.6 billion for emergency arms sales. The economic oxygen is being sucked out of our local infrastructure to fuel global kinetic energy, leaving communities to decide between fixing a pothole or funding a teacher’s health plan.

7. Conclusion: The View from the 2,000th Day

Recently, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson marked his 2,000th day in office, a milestone Gardner Magazine has used to champion the “Model City” status of his administration. Yet, just a few miles away, the “operational cliff” remains a literal threat to the survival of municipal services. The contrast is sharp: we are creating islands of stability within a sea of crumbling infrastructure.

As we look at the world through the lens of May 2026, we must ask if the “Model City” is a sustainable future or merely a temporary fortress. The events of this week—the legal maneuvers to extend war, the grounding of mass travel, and the prioritization of arms over insurance—suggest we are not in a temporary crisis. Instead, we are witnessing a permanent restructuring of society. The “new normal” is not coming; it is already here, and it is defined by a world where the 20th-century luxuries of mobility and security are being repossessed by the realities of a volatile new age.

Werner Poegel, Publisher
WGAW Hotline Radio 5-2-26 (5/2/2026)

Both Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and Council President George Tyros appear on WGAW Hotline Radio

Listen to the WGAW Hotline Radio Show of 5-2-26 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

WGAW Hotline Radio 5-2-26

Mayor Michael Nicholson: A discussion of the Gardner City budget and how the school portion is funded primarily by Chapter 70 from the State of MA with the School budget hearing coming up on May 11th. Nicholson gave “kudos to Council President George Tyros and Disability Commission Chair Anne Hurst” for the new seating arrangement in the City Council Chambers. Other discussions: Maki Park, pedestrian and bike bridge over Route 140, the Mayor’s campaign for State Rep, the MBTA and other transportation, and the 90th Anniversary of the Gardner Municipal Golf Course. Mayor Nicholson hit a golf ball at 9:15am on Saturday May 2nd just as Mayor Timpany did 90 years ago.

Council President George Tyros: Tyros spoke about the Municipal salary scale which is now structured and more transparent saying that it is better for City employees, helps retain talent, and aids in recruitment. “We have a comprehensive pay ordinance now.” The Council President spoke of changes to the signage ordinance which now makes it easier for businesses to put up signs. “We want to encourage businesses to come to town.” Other topics discussed included appointments, Monument Park, the City Council Chamber layout, the budget, “It’s going to be a tough year.”, the resignation of City Clerk Titi Siriphan effective July 2nd. Tyros praised Director Brandon Hughey of the City’s popular new Youth Center stating, “I thank Director Hughey for his hard work.”

Host Steve Wendell commented on the listeners who tune to the live stream from various countries around the world. Werner Poegel gave a comprehensive report on Gardner’s Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces. Wendell gave an update on the Urban Terrorist attack on the station. Mike Urban commented on the waste in State government.
Mayor Michael Nicholson Update 5-1-26 (5/1/2026)

Important Note: For a very limited time, the City of Gardner is suspending fines for overdue Dog Licensing (due March 31st). Right now, regular rates apply with no fine or penalty , but that won’t last long. View the comprehensive infographic for important dates.

A Mayor’s Update packed with information, news, and events with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.

UPDATE: 5-1-26 Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

In this official update of May 1 2026, the Mayor of Gardner, Michael Nicholson, highlights a variety of community events and civic achievements scheduled for the spring season. The address begins by honoring local award recipients, specifically recognizing individuals and businesses for their contributions to public service and safety. Residents are informed of upcoming recreational opportunities, including the reopening of the farmers market, summer concert series, and specialized youth programs like the Junior Police Academy now named the Rocky Barrieau Memorial Junior Police Academy. Furthermore, the update serves as a guide for municipal services, providing essential details on yard waste collection, dog licensing, and public meetings regarding city infrastructure planning including the Vision Zero Safety Plan, the Municipal Surplus Property Plan, and the City Master Plan. The Mayor concludes by celebrating the academic success of local graduates and encouraging ongoing citizen engagement in beautification projects like the annual planting day.

Infographic provides a category listing of the various categories in the jam-packed update.

Day	Hours
Wednesday	9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday	9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday	9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday	7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sun / Mon / Tue	CLOSED

Service Type	Adjusted Aggregation Rate	National Grid Basic Service
Residential	$0.15152 per kWh	$0.15372 per kWh
Commercial	$0.15152 per kWh	$0.14493 per kWh

Struggles and Solutions: Templeton and Winchendon (5/1/2026)

Templeton and Winchendon fiscal year 2027

The Tale of Two Overrides – The Challenges of Templeton MA and Winchendon MA – Complete Analysis

Residents in Templeton and Winchendon are currently navigating critical financial decisions to sustain municipal operations and infrastructure. Max and Maxine Rogers debate the options. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE: Templeton – Winchendon FY27 Options

Templeton voters are facing a multi-million dollar override proposal to bridge a significant budget deficit and prevent the closure of essential public facilities like the library and senior center. Failure to approve this funding would result in extensive layoffs and deep cuts to both public safety and local education.

Winchendon is seeking public approval for debt exclusions specifically designed to finance major school building repairs, with a substantial portion of the costs covered by state aid. These fiscal measures reflect a broader regional challenge of balancing tax increases against the preservation of vital community services.

A Tale of Two Fiscal Paths: Comparative Analysis of Proposition 2½ Strategies in Templeton and Winchendon, MA

In the increasingly constrained fiscal environment of North Central Massachusetts, municipal leaders are no longer viewing Proposition 2½ ballot measures as discretionary options for growth; rather, they have become essential mechanisms for stabilizing the levy base and ensuring municipal survival. For towns like Templeton and Winchendon, these measures represent the thin line between operational continuity and the total cessation of non-mandated services. Entering Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27), these two neighboring communities find themselves at divergent stages of the municipal fiscal lifecycle. While one town is embroiled in an acute struggle to mitigate a structural deficit and maintain essential personnel, the other has leveraged past stabilization to pivot toward long-term capital asset management.

This “tale of two overrides” illustrates a fundamental shift in strategy: Templeton is currently fighting an immediate operational crisis to prevent a systemic collapse of town departments, while Winchendon has transitioned toward infrastructure investment. To understand the strategic logic behind these two paths, one must first analyze the immediate operational emergency unfolding in Templeton.

Templeton’s FY27 Strategy: Maintaining Essential Services

Templeton’s FY27 Operational Crisis: Maintaining Essential Services: Templeton’s proposed $4 million operational override represents a critical juncture for the town’s operational integrity. Unlike a debt exclusion, this override constitutes a permanent increase in the tax levy, reflecting a necessary but significant adjustment to the town’s baseline funding. Faced with the rising costs of municipal management—which have contributed to a total budget spike of over $5.2 million compared to the previous year—the town is at a point where it can no longer fund its basic organizational structure within existing constraints.

Analysis of the Deficit and Proposed Solutions: The town’s financial requirements for FY27 are defined by a substantial gap between projected revenues and the cost of maintaining current service levels. It is critical to note that the proposed $26,665,898 budget already incorporates the assumed success of the $4 million override; without it, the town has no legal path to fund this spending level.

The Precise Deficit: Templeton faces a deficit of $3,537,803 required to balance the proposed $26.6 million FY27 budget.
The Primary Strategy ($4 Million): This proposal is designed to close the $3.53 million gap entirely, providing a necessary buffer to preserve current service levels and keep departments functional amidst rising inflation and management costs.
The Contingency Option ($2 Million): A smaller override is being considered as a secondary measure. However, from a strategic standpoint, this is a half-measure that would only partially mitigate the deficit, still requiring substantial reductions in force and service delivery.

Consequences of a Failed Override: The Operational Cliff: A failed vote on May 18, 2026, would trigger an immediate transition to an austerity budget. The town has projected specific, devastating repercussions for the community’s quality of life and public safety:

Workforce Reduction: The override is required to preserve the jobs of over a dozen town employees, including two full-time police officers and two full-time firefighters.
Shuttering of Community Hubs: The town library and the senior center would be closed entirely, representing a total cessation of non-mandated community services.
Departmental Austerity: Major budget cuts would be mandated across every town department, hampering the town’s basic administrative functionality.

Impact on the Regional School District: The school system remains a primary casualty in a failed override scenario. Templeton would be forced to implement a $1.3 million cut to the Templeton Narragansett Regional School District budget. Such a reduction would likely lead to increased class sizes and the elimination of programs, threatening the long-term educational standards and property values of the community.

Winchendon’s FY27 Strategy: From Operational Survival to Infrastructure Investment

Winchendon enters FY27 in a markedly more stable strategic position. Having navigated its own “fiscal cliff” in the previous cycle, the town has transitioned from day-to-day survival to the proactive management of its physical assets.

Review the FY26 Precedent: The flexibility currently enjoyed by Winchendon is a direct result of the nearly 2 million operational override (1.9 million) approved by voters on May 19, 2025. This contentious but successful vote was a necessary prerequisite for current stability; it protected the library, the senior center, and the Parks Department from closure while stabilizing school staffing. Having already adjusted its levy base to meet operational realities, Winchendon is now positioned to focus on capital needs.

Analysis of the Debt Exclusion Proposals: For FY27, Winchendon is utilizing debt exclusions rather than an operational override. Technically, these are temporary tax increases that expire once the specific project debt is retired, making them a more targeted fiscal tool for capital repair.

Category	Details
Project Need	Essential infrastructure repairs for the town’s three school buildings.
State Funding Share	Over 77% of total project costs expected from state aid.
Long-term Tax Impact	Approximately 3.77% property tax increase for a 20-year duration.

Assessing the Strategic Advantage: The strategic imperative behind these debt exclusions is the concept of capturing value. By securing a 77% state reimbursement rate, Winchendon is leveraging external funding to address long-term structural needs at a fraction of the cost to local taxpayers. This is a classic exercise in intergenerational equity: by repairing schools now with a high state match, the town prevents the astronomical costs that would arise if the buildings were allowed to fail, which would likely require 100% local funding in the future.

Comparative Analysis: Operational Overrides vs. Debt Exclusions: The differing paths taken by Templeton and Winchendon represent two distinct stages of municipal fiscal evolution under the constraints of Proposition 2½.

Differentiating the Objectives between Templeton and Winchendon

Category	Templeton (FY27)	Winchendon (FY27)
Primary Fiscal Tool	Operational Override (Permanent)	Debt Exclusions (Temporary)
Core Objective	Operational Survival	Capital/Infrastructure Repair
Immediate Personnel Impact	High Risk (Over a dozen jobs at stake)	Low Risk (Staffing stabilized in FY26)
Long-term Infrastructure Focus	Delayed due to immediate deficit	Active (20-year school facility updates)

Strategic Synthesis: The “So What?” Layer: The divergent experiences of these towns are rooted in timing. Templeton is facing a challenging year because it is currently absorbing a massive $5.2 million budget increase—driven by the rising costs of modern municipal management—all at once. Winchendon, having already passed its $1.9 million operational override in 2025, has already “right-sized” its budget. This historical context allows Winchendon to utilize debt exclusions for 20-year infrastructure projects, while Templeton must still secure the permanent funds just to keep the library doors open and the fire department staffed.

Critical Decision Points for FY27: The upcoming May 2026 votes represent a defining moment for the fiscal health of both communities. Winchendon is moving to mitigate long-term liability by capitalizing on state funding for schools, while Templeton is fighting for the fundamental ability to provide basic municipal services.

Templeton:

Annual Town Meeting: Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
Annual Town Election: Monday, May 18, 2026.

Winchendon:
- Strategy Status: Infrastructure focus and debt exclusion strategy finalized as of April 30, 2026.

Ultimately, these two communities illustrate the diverse ways Massachusetts towns navigate Proposition 2½. One town is successfully building for the future, while the other is in a high-stakes battle to preserve the essential services of the present. Both paths emphasize that in the current economic climate, proactive fiscal management is the only defense against municipal decline.

Safety Action Plan 4-29-26 (4/30/2026)

The infographic below illustrates some data, includes a comprehensive safety analysis, the project framework, and various factors.

Gardner’s Safety Action Plan Discussed at April 29th Meeting

Listen to the entire meeting on any device. There’s a presentation along with citizen comments.

Safety Action Meeting 4-29-26

This public meeting was both a presentation of the City of Gardner’s Safety Action Plan and an information-gathering forum with comments from local residents. The City’s Vision Zero Safety Action Plan is being funded by a Federal grant with the goal of eliminating traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries.

The meeting was led by Gardner City Engineer Rob Oliva and a team of consultants. The presentation outlines recent data trends over a 5 year period, noting 2500 crashes and 12 deaths. Specific high-risk areas highlighted included Main Street and Route 140. During the session, residents shared personal accounts of frequent accidents and expressed concerns regarding poor lighting, high vehicle speeds, and inadequate infrastructure. Over the next year, the City aims to develop a comprehensive blueprint that endures safer travel for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
Council President Update 4-30-26 (4/30/2026)

From the President’s Desk – April 2026 with Gardner City Council President George Tyros.

In an April 2026 update, CLICK HERE FOR PDF, Gardner City Council President George Tyros outlines several legislative measures aimed at improving city operations and local governance. A major highlight includes the establishment of a standardized pay scale for non-union department heads to ensure pay equity and professional transparency.

The Council also simplified business signage regulations by moving them out of zoning laws to foster a more entrepreneurial environment. To promote civic inclusion, physical renovations are being made to the Council Chambers to improve disability access and community participation.

Additionally, the update notes the confirmation of new volunteers to local boards and the commencement of budget preparations for the upcoming fiscal year. These collective efforts reflect a focus on administrative efficiency and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
Question for the Mayor (4/30/2026)

A Hypothetical and Ridiculous Question for the Mayor of Gardner

Gardner Magazine has postulated the following question to Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson.

What would be most exciting? 1. Meeting space aliens at the Gardner Dog Park 2. Meeting with Donald Trump at the White House regarding Gardner as the “Model City for America” or 3. Sharing a meal of roast beef and cornmeal pancakes with President George Washington. (Washington’s favorite foods) 4. Landing on terraformed Mars at a Mars Colony with Elon Musk

Gardner Magazine will let you know when and if Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson responds to our ridiculous question.

The scenarios depicted in the images are fictional, intended to demonstrate how realistic AI can be.
Economic Development 4-29-26 (4/29/2026)

Improvements, Updates, Transitions and Future Plans Focus of Economic and Community Development Session.

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

Economic and Community Development 4-29-26

The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met to discuss several key urban improvements and organizational shifts. A major focus is the Waterford Community Center, where a transition plan is being drafted to move the senior center and accommodate new tenants like the disability commission and Gardner Educational television. Local officials emphasized making the building ADA compliant and accessible while expanding parking by removing old playground equipment.

Additionally, the committee received updates on the completion of safety repairs at Maki Park and the progress of the Rear Main street project, which aims to provide new green space and public parking by July. The meeting concluded with a look at upcoming municipal plans regarding surplus property and housing production scheduled for completion this summer.
Appointments 4-28-26 (4/29/2026)

Personnel and Administrative Matters – Resignation of Titi Siriphan, City Clerk, Focus of Appointments Committee Meeting

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

Appointments 4-28-26

The Gardner Appointments Committee met on April 28, 2026, to manage various personnel and administrative matters for the city. During the session, members reviewed the reappointment of a board of assessors member and tracked the progress of several other appointees awaiting their official oaths. Significant discussion centered on updated job descriptions for the human resource, youth center, and city clerk positions, though the committee requested more time to compare these changes against original documents.

The committee also addressed the resignation of the current city clerk (effective July 2nd) and discussed improving the tracking of 90-day confirmation windows. To streamline future operations, members explored new methods for contacting volunteer appointees and scheduling interviews for upcoming meetings. The meeting concluded with a look ahead at a busy May schedule intended to finalize numerous municipal roles.
Finances of the City (4/29/2026)
Updates, Challenges, Costs, and Negotiations Discussed at Finance Committee Meeting

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

Finance Committee 4-27-26

The Gardner Finance Committee met on April 27, 2026, to discuss various municipal updates, starting with the City Clerk’s positive report on the successful implementation of electronic poll pads during recent elections. The committee reviewed challenges related to genealogy requests, increasing postage costs for the city census, and technical difficulties with birth and death record systems.

Mayor Michael Nicholson provided updates regarding a spending freeze, the ongoing FY 2027 budget process, and a proposed Chief of Staff position intended to streamline administrative duties. Additional discussions focused on utility rate increases necessitated by urgent repairs at the Snake Pond and Pearly Brook water facilities. The meeting also addressed health insurance negotiations, where most unions recommended maintaining current plans despite a 12.5% premium increase. Finally, the committee received an update on the Lifeline senior alert program, which is currently operating with a financial surplus and minimal staff impact.

More Details:
- Financial & Budgetary Outlook: The FY 2027 citywide budget is currently delayed, pending a mandatory public hearing by the school committee on May 11. The Mayor indicated that roughly 40% of the total budget is tied to the school department, preventing a full submission until their figures are finalized.
- Infrastructure & Enterprise Funds: A proposed multi-year water rate increase—starting with a 20% hike—is deemed necessary to stabilize the water enterprise fund and address $300,000+ in immediate, “big-ticket” repairs at Snake Pond and Pearly Brook.
- Health Insurance: The Insurance Advisory Commission (IAC) has recommended a 12.5% premium increase with no changes to insurance plans, a decision largely supported by city unions pending a final check-in with the teachers’ union.
- Election Administration: The City Clerk’s office successfully integrated electronic poll pads during recent elections, resulting in increased efficiency and positive feedback from poll workers, despite state laws prohibiting the mandatory collection of IDs.
- Administrative Proposals: Debates continue regarding a new “Chief of Staff” position for the Mayor’s office and the acquisition of new technology (tablets/laptops) for City Council members to address hardware failures.
The City Clerk reported the successful certification of the September mayoral primary and the November general election. A central highlight was the deployment of electronic poll pads after three years of ownership.
- Functionality: The tablets contain citywide electronic voter lists. They allow poll workers to locate voters by the first three letters of their names, preventing “goose chases” by instantly identifying the correct precinct for misdirected voters.
- ID Scanning: While state law forbids asking for identification, poll workers may scan an ID if a voter offers it voluntarily. This process pre-populates voter data and eliminates the need for manual “checkout” paperwork.
- Training: Of 95 poll workers contacted, 75 attended mandatory training sessions. The Clerk noted that even non-tech-savvy workers found the pads easy to use after hands-on sessions.
Vital Records and Genealogy Trends: The Clerk’s office has experienced a significant increase in workload related to genealogy and record amendments.
- Canadian Citizenship Surge: A new Canadian law allows individuals to claim dual citizenship if they can trace ancestry through grandparents or great-grandparents. This has led to “lines out the door” for genealogy research.
- Record Integrity Issues: Research is hindered by old paper records (dating back to 1908) written in faded cursive. There is frequent confusion regarding “French” naming conventions (e.g., individuals named John or Maria who went by middle names), necessitating time-consuming record amendments.
- Hospital Errors: The Clerk reported a rise in errors from hospitals (including Haywood and others), such as misspelled names or incorrect genders on birth records. Correcting these errors requires a lengthy legal amendment process.
Municipal Claims and Licensing
- Insurance Claims: There has been a recent increase in claims for pothole and tire damage, specifically regarding the Pearl Street rotary. Claims must be filed through the Clerk’s office by statute before being transmitted to the Treasurer and insurance providers.
- Dog Licensing: The office is utilizing “Open Gov” for online licensing. Late fees and citations have been temporarily suspended while the office catches up on a backlog of online orders.
- Census: 2026 census forms were mailed in February; second notices are due June 1. Rising postage costs are a noted budgetary concern.
Chestnut St. UMC – May ’26 (4/28/2026)
Gardner Magazine would be pleased to feature your church or non-profit in an article. Simply send the info to News@GardnerMagazine.com.
Spiritual and Operational Priorities of the Chestnut Street United Methodist Church – May 2026

Listen to a “Deep Dive” podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Chestnut Street United Methodist Church – May 2026

CLICK on the graphic for a larger view of the important topics and dates. Important Dates: May 2026 – May 31st: Memorial Day – May 1st: May Day –May 3rd: Baptism of Winston, Pierce, and Asia (10 am service) – May 7th: Gardner Health Fair (5-7 pm)-May 10th: Mother’s Day – May 20th: FREE Community Supper (5:30-7 pm) at the church, featuring spaghetti and meatballs – May 30th: Winchendon Montapalooza Music Festival –
May 31st: Memorial Day

The following biblical texts serve as the framework for the church’s May focus:
- 1 Peter 3:15: Revering Christ as Lord and being prepared to defend hope with gentleness.
- Romans 12:2: Resisting worldly patterns through the renewing of the mind.
- Philippians 3:14: Pressing toward the goal of the heavenly prize.
- Colossians 3:10: Putting on a “new self” renewed in the image of the Creator.
- John 15:5: Recognizing that apart from Christ, human effort is fruitless.
Assessor 4-27-26 (4/28/2026)
UPDATE 4-29-26 2pm: Issue has been resolved. The Board of Assessors is back in the workflow loop. Participation in the workflow allows the Assessor to identify upcoming projects and calculate “new growth” for valuation purposes which is essential for the City of Gardner.
Assessors Meeting Reveals Critical Workflow Breakdown – Problem Unresolved as of April 27th

Listen to the entire 6 minute meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Board of Assessors 4-27-26

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a procedural failure involving the Building Department’s permitting system.

Role of the Assessor’s Office

The Assessor’s office is a vital component of the building permit workflow for two primary reasons:
1. Good Standing Confirmation: The office supplies owner information and personal property account data. This allows the city (specifically civil enforcement and the treasurer-collector’s office) to verify if an applicant is in “good standing.” If taxes (excise or personal property) or citations are owed, the permit is halted until payment is made.
2. Tracking New Growth: Participation in the workflow allows the Assessor to identify upcoming projects and calculate “new growth” for valuation purposes.
Timeline of the Workflow Omission
- February 2026: The Building Commissioner notified department heads of intended changes to the permitting system and offered meetings. The Assessor did not meet at that time as there were no current issues.
- March 26, 2026: The administrative coordinator noticed a cessation of permit approvals, which usually arrive at a rate of several per day. The Assessor’s office queried the change.
- April 21, 2026: Following a lack of resolution, the Mayor sent an email to the involved departments to address the bottleneck.
- April 22, 2026: The Building Commissioner met with the Assessor, assuring that the office would be restored to the workflow.
- April 27, 2026 (Meeting Date): The issue remains unresolved. The Assessor’s office is currently discovering permits only through incidental contact with other departments.
Root Cause and Impact

The Assessor noted that the Building Commissioner likely did not understand the specific necessity of the Assessor’s presence in the workflow. The omission has removed a key mechanism for the city to collect outstanding taxes and has hindered the Assessor’s ability to track new developments systematically.
Williams Rockwell 2026 (4/27/2026)
Printable letter size version of above 2026 Williams-Rockwell Gift Awards, CLICK HERE

Awards sorted by amount, Word Doc CLICK HERE,,—PDF CLICK HERE. — Spreadsheet CLICK HERE

Williams-Rockwell 2026 Education Gift Awards Detailed

On April 21, 2026, the City of Gardner announced the distribution of $240,331.62 in grants from the Williams-Rockwell Education Gift Fund. This 2026 funding cycle supports 31 distinct projects across the Gardner Public School System, aimed at enhancing the academic, athletic, and artistic experiences of students. Listen to this “Deep Dive” discussion with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady going over it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Williams-Rockwell 2026 Education Gift Awards

Established in 2014 through the sale of Norman Rockwell’s painting “Willie Gillis in the Convoy,” the fund serves as a permanent endowment, utilizing interest and capital gains to provide financial assistance for initiatives that fall outside the standard school budget. To date, the fund has awarded a cumulative total of $851,464.17. The 2026 grants prioritize innovation in classroom technology, literacy, specialized musical equipment, and unique cultural field trips.

Potential applicants, or those seeking more information about the Williams-Rockwell Committee, are encouraged to reach out to the Gardner Mayor’s Office with any questions.

Fund Origin and Governance

The Williams-Rockwell Education Gift Fund represents a strategic investment in the city’s youth, derived from a significant cultural asset.
- Foundation: The fund was created following the 2014 auction of the Norman Rockwell painting “Willie Gillis in the Convoy.”
- Funding Mechanism: The City endowed the sale proceeds, and the committee awards up to 90% of the annual investment income (interest and capital gains) as grants.
- Mandate: Governing statutes require that awards be distributed across three primary areas: arts, athletics, and academics.
- Process: Applications open annually in December, with awards announced in the early spring of the following year.
2026 Funding Themes and Project Impacts

The 2026 grant cycle demonstrates a commitment to diverse educational enhancements, categorized by several core themes:

STEM and Technical Education

Significant investment was made in “cutting-edge classroom tools” and vocational preparation.
- Robotics and 3D Technology: Upgrades to 3D printing equipment (22,342.84)and the purchase of a 3D scanner (750) support STEM and Makerspace instruction for grades 8–12.
- Biotechnology: Funding for sterilization equipment allows students to explore medical field techniques and classroom labs.
- Health Science: A “Facial Analyzer Skin Scanner” was funded to educate students and staff on UV sun damage.
Arts and Music Enrichment

The fund continues to support the district’s robust music and visual arts programs.
- Infrastructure: A $12,840.30 grant provides a permanent AV system for the GHS music room, including hanging microphones and a sound recording console.
- Instrumentation: Multiple grants funded specialized instruments including a Sousaphone (10,571.21),a Piccolo, and a “Full Instrumentation “project for the middle school(13,510) featuring Euphoniums and French Horns.
- Visual Arts: Projects include a new portable drying rack for art classes and materials to enhance fine motor skills through manipulative-based learning.
Literacy and Communication

Grants were allocated to foundational skills and inclusive communication.
- Tactile Literacy: $15,853.90 was awarded for Literacy Tile Work Boards to help grades 1–4 with word building and spelling patterns.
- Inclusion: AAC Communication Boards were funded for art rooms and gyms to support non-verbal students.
- Literacy Challenge: Funding for books and supplies to encourage district-wide reading engagement.
Cultural Experiences and Student Life

The fund facilitates experiences that many students might otherwise be unable to afford.
- Field Trips: Major trips include a Senior Class Trip to Pennsylvania (28,400),a trip to see Hamilton on Broadway (27,500), and visits to the Hanover Theater for performances of The Giver and A Christmas Carol.
- Support for Disadvantaged Students: Gardner Academy received $3,532.50 to ensure that economically disadvantaged students can participate in graduation celebrations.
- Multi-Lingual Support: A learning experience at Polar Park was funded specifically for recent immigrant, multi-lingual learners to build language skills in an authentic setting.
Key Stakeholder Perspectives

Mayor Michael J. Nicholson: “Each year, the Williams-Rockwell Educational Gift Fund allows us to elevate the educational experience for Gardner students… These projects—from cutting-edge classroom tools to enriching trips and opportunities—represent our district’s commitment to inspiring every learner.”

Dr. Mark Pellegrino, Superintendent of Public Schools: “The Rockwell Fund enhances the experiences of our students in ways that we could not afford otherwise. This fund provides our students with unique field trip experiences; specialized equipment to enhance curricular activities and learning; and improved facilities that strengthen wildcat pride!”

Doug Lepisto, Gardner High School Band Teacher: “Being able to record students’ playing and singing during rehearsals will provide feedback to help them hear their progress and continue to grow.”
Hubbardston Sofa Caper (4/27/2026)

Hubbardston Sofa Caper Solved – Suspects Summoned to Court

On April 8th, Hubbardston Police reported that the furniture shown in the graphic was illegally dumped in the area of Old Princeton Road and Worcester road that afternoon. The photo of the vehicle allegedly involved in the incident was posted by the Hubbardston PD the following day.

Two weeks later, Hubbardston Police has stated that “after a thorough investigation, Sergeant Donald Blood was able to identify the two individuals responsible for dumping the sectional sofa just off Worcester Rd. in Hubbardston.” A 25 year old man and a 26 year old man, both from Lawrence, MA have been summoned to Gardner District Court for the alleged illegal dumping. According to the Hubbardston PD, the men were identified by the owner of the company they were working for.

Good news: Another company has stepped up and donated its time and resources to clean up and properly dispose of the sectional at no cost to the town of Hubbardston. “The Hubbardston Police Department would like to sincerely thank R.M.G. Services for cleaning up and properly disposing of the debris from the illegal dumping on 4/08/2026 on their own time and at their expense.”
Airport 4-26-26 (4/27/2026)

Airport Commission Meeting on April 26, 2026 centered on a proposed Boston RC Jet Club Operational Agreement.

Airport Commission Meets Regarding Boston RC Jet Club Proposed Usage Agreement

Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Airport Commission 4-26-26

This special meeting of the Gardner Airport Commission regarded a proposal by the Boston RC Jet Club to operate high-performance model aircraft at the facility. Commission members and club representatives discussed operational logistics, such as the placement of a storage container, the implementation of spill kits, and the necessity of specialized CO2 fire extinguishers. A significant portion of the debate centered on the annual fee, with the commission eventually proposing a discounted rate of $3,500 for the first year to encourage the club’s establishment. Safety concerns are raised regarding the potential interference with full-sized aircraft, leading to a consensus on a probationary period and strict communication protocols for posting flight notices. The meeting concludes with an agreement to seek legal review from the city solicitor before finalizing the contract.
Gardner Museum 4-30-26 Event (4/26/2026)

Reserve by sending an email to Info@GardnerMuseumInc.com

The Joy of Everyday Garden Vegetables Revealed at the Gardner Museum

The Gardner Museum on Pearl Street in Gardner MA is having an evening with author, traveler, and plant lover Varla Ventura as she presents “The Cottage Garden of Earthly Delights” Thursday, April 30, at 7 pm (reception at 6:30 pm).

The Gardner Museum wrote: “Perfectly timed with the start of the planting season, this engaging talk invites you on a journey through the surprising lore of everyday garden vegetables. When we think of magic in fairy tales, cabbages don’t usually come to mind, but perhaps they should! From garlic’s connection to vampires to the unexpected role corn played in fueling vampire hysteria, and even the curious controversy surrounding turnips, you’ll never look at your garden the same way again. Drawing from folklore, history, and a deep love of the natural world, Varla brings these common plants to life with uncommon stories. Take a stroll through the kitchen garden and uncover the hidden meanings, myths, and mysteries growing right beneath our feet. This is an ideal program for gardeners, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the folklore of the natural world.“
News Roundup 4-26-26 (4/26/2026)

News Roundup: Greater Gardner MA, North Central MA, Massachusetts News, U.S. National News, and World News Developments

Greater Gardner MA News is found on our home page.

Other news sections on lower on the home page: JUMP TO: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week

Other News Sections

Top 50 Interviews – Original Songs – Hotline Radio Shows –City Council – School Committee – DEEP DIVE podcasts – Editorial and Commentary – SPECIAL EVENTS —-FOCUS on Non-Profits — Gardner MAgazine Reports:

This is our way of helping you keep in touch with the world around you. Have a news story idea or like to promote your non-profit? Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com or call our voicemail line at (978) 632-6324.
Music – 1910 to 3000 (4/25/2026)

Gardner Magazine American Music History Project

An incredible page has been completed which chronicles Music in America from the 1910s to the 2030s and beyond with lots of engaging graphics and narrative plus a great video too. CLICK HERE for complete page.

Listen to this complete and extensive podcast on American Music through the decades featuring the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Music in America

Listen to this debate on the future of music in America with Max and Maxine Rogers on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Music: Past, Present, and Future

Jump to a section on the page: Bands, Vocalists and Groups by decade 1910s,1920s, 1930s, 1940s, Big Bands ,1950s,1960s,1970s,1980s,1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s, — Projected 2030s — From Playlists to Neural Streams —Music of the Future – Century of Music Evolution – Images of the music of the 1500s, 1600s — Images of the music of the 1700s, 1800s

CLICK HERE for complete page.
Hotline 4-25-26 (4/25/2026)

Terrorist Attack on WGAW – Update with the Mayor – DEA Drug Takeback – MVOC’s Marchetti – WBI’s Carlberg – Fitzgerald on Energy

The WGAW Hotline Radio program on April 25, 2026 started off with an ominous story by Steve Wendell of an Urban Terrorist Attack on the radio station which took down the FM portion of the station for the better part of 3 days last week. Culprits are being sought by the FBI and the Gardner PD for a very serious Federal offense and a $20,000 reward is offered. Penalty upon conviction is 10 years in prison, 5 years Probation, $250,000 in fines, and restitution to the radio station. Gardner PD is analyzing forensic evidence found at the site.

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

WGAW Hotline Radio 4-25-26

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke about potholes in the City with the Pothole Patrol being out this week filling potholes. The Mayor spoke on the various phases of the Rear Main Street Project with the current phase including parking and an events plaza with housing coming next. Also on housing, Nicholson went over Tiny Houses, Accessory Dwelling Units, and the City’s Surplus Property Plan. The Mayor is still out getting signatures for his bid for State Representative.

Host Steve Wendell interviewed Stephanie Marchetti – Director of the Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center – A private non-profit which has been providing support services to veterans for over 40 years. Marchetti describes the services offered to veterans. Website:

Sean Fitzgerald commented on Energy Costs in Massachusetts and why the switch to electric has caused residents money. Fitzgerald interviews residents who have had huge electric bills since switching and are not happy.

DEA Drug Takeback Day – Commentary and Report by Werner Poegel on why it is so dangerous to keep expired and unused medications. Drop off medications 24/7 at the Gardner Police station and at Walgreen’s or CVS during their operating hours.

Steve Wendell Interviewed Magnus Carlberg of the Wachusett Business Incubator. The WBI was started in 2014. Help is offered to almost any business. Website: (978) 707-9900

Monument Park 2026 (4/24/2026)

Monument Park Summer Bandstand Series 5-1-26

Monument Park will be filled with music from June to August in Gardner MA

The 2026 Concert List is out, Here’s a printable version of the article graphic, CLICK HERE. – This year there’s a rain date for every concert except for one. The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the upcoming season. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – 2026 Bandstand Concert Series at Monument Park

The 2026 Bandstand Concert Series is a scheduled program of ten musical performances running from June 20, 2026, through August 29, 2026 at Monument Park in Gardner. The series is characterized by a heavy emphasis on tribute acts and classic rock genres. Key operational takeaways include a consistent Saturday evening performance window—which shifts one hour earlier in mid-August—and a standardized rain date policy for nearly all scheduled events.

Update: 5-1-26: Band was changed for the August 1st date and is reflected in the graphic and in the chart below.

2026 Bandstand Concert Series at Monument Park

Concert Date	Time	Rain Date (2pm-4pm)	Band Name	Type of Music
6/20/2026	6pm – 8pm	6/21/2026	Tru Diamond	Neil Diamond Tribute
6/27/2026	6pm – 8pm	6/28/2026	Gold Dust Refugee	Tom Petty/Fleetwood Mac
7/11/2026	6pm – 8pm	7/12/2026	The Remedy	Tribute
7/18/2026	6pm – 8pm	7/19/2026	Traveling Homebodies	Folk, Classic Rock, Country
7/25/2026	6pm – 8pm	7/26/2026	David Malouin	Country Oldies & Classic Rocks
8/1/2026	6pm – 8pm	8/2/2026	Holdin’ Back the 60’s	Music of the 60’s
8/8/2026	6pm – 8pm	8/9/2026	Mr. Strickland	Classic Rock
8/15/2026	5pm – 7pm	8/16/2026	The Long Run	Eagle Tribute
8/22/2026	5pm – 7pm	No Rain Date	4Ever Fab	Beatles
8/29/2026	5pm – 7pm	8/30/2026	The Random Band	Classic Rock

Public Safety 4-24-26 (4/24/2026)

Fire, Building, and Health Department Updates at Public Safety Meeting

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

Public Safety 4-24-26

Fire Department: Significant budget overages in overtime and vehicle maintenance. New safety grants funded radios. One-year delay for a critical new ladder. Resignation of firefighter leaves an opening.

Building Department: Fully staffed which has successfully reduced permit review timelines fo rlocal projects.

Health Department: Details are shared on landfill infrastructure repairs, tobacco compliance violations, and upcoming community wellness events.
ZBA 4-22-26 (4/24/2026)

Development, Discipline, and Dimensional Variances Subject of Lively Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting

The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) meeting on April 22, 2026, focused on a diverse range of applications, including residential renovations, telecommunications infrastructure, and dimensional variances. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Zoning Board of Appeals 4-22-26

Key outcomes included the approval of a revised parking and drainage plan for a multi-unit residential project at 63 Walnut Street and the granting of a frontage variance for a single-family dwelling at 0 Stuart. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a proposed 130-foot “monopine” cell tower at the local Walmart, which was ultimately continued pending a site visit to address public safety concerns regarding the “fall zone.” The board also enforced administrative discipline, refusing to hear a case due to unpaid fees and lack of required documentation.
Westminster – May 2026 (4/23/2026)

Westminster MA Civic, Government, and Community Events for May 2026

The Westminster South Street Sentinel May 2026 edition, CLICK HERE, details various civic and community events scheduled for the Spring and Summer of 2026.

Important Dates: Annual Town Election is April 28th and the Annual Town Meeting is May 2nd.

Westminster is looking for a full-time town clerk and has posted that position. Residents are reminded of critical deadlines for voter registration, dog licensing, and property tax payments. Local health and safety initiatives were outlined including an informational meeting regarding PFAS water testing and updates on the Adams Street 40B Housing Project. Cultural and social opportunities include the Historical Society’s plant swap, a town-wide yard sale, and various programs hosted by the Forbush Library and Senior Center. There are updates from the Police Department, Public Works, and the local school district which we have included in our infographic below.
Relay Team Leaders (4/23/2026)

Real People – Real Stories – The Greater Gardner Relay for Life

At a recent Team meeting, Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel spoke with some real people who had real stories about why they are involved with the Greater Gardner Relay for Life. Listen to our report on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Real Stories from Real People -4-22-26

The Greater Gardner Relay for Life is coming up on Friday June 12 and Saturday June 13th at Mount Wachusett Community College. To find out more. To start a team. To join a team. To make a contribution. Here’s the website, CLICK HERE.

The Gardner Magazine “Everyday is Purple” Campaign is very simple – creating greater awareness of the Greater Gardner Relay for Life to encourage greater participation. While the ledger might define the Relay as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, its true architecture is built from something far more resilient. As our report captures in conversation, the Relay is a living archive – a story of the human spirit written by those who refuse to let the shadow of cancer go unchallenged. The Relay’s success is found in the enduring, often exhausting, and deeply personal commitments of local neighbors. Some people have been involved for decades. We urge you to get involved with this great cause. Here’s the website, CLICK HERE.
Michael Nicholson 4-22-26 Interview (4/22/2026)
INTERVIEW: Candidate for State Representative Michael Nicholson

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

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson is a candidate for the State Representative seat in the 2nd Worcester district, aiming to succeed the long-serving Jon Zlotnik.
- Motivation for Candidacy: Nicholson cites a record number of communities facing Proposition 2 ½ overrides and making “bone-deep” budget cuts rather than just “cutting fat.” He argues that Beacon Hill requires voices with direct local municipal experience to hit the ground running.
- Endorsement and Succession: Outgoing Representative Jonathan Zlotnik has endorsed Nicholson. The two share a long history; Nicholson previously interned for Zlotnik’s office ten years ago and spoke at Zlotnik’s 2020 campaign launch.
- District Focus: While currently Mayor of Gardner, Nicholson emphasizes his past role as Town Administrator in Rutland as evidence that he understands the unique challenges of smaller, rural communities within the Second Worcester District.
Michael Nicholson defines his approach to governance through the lens of human impact rather than abstract data.
- Human-Centric Legislation: Nicholson asserts that behind every dollar sign and decimal point in a bill is a person waiting for a better quality of life. He argues that housing, infrastructure, and economic development must be viewed as tools to help families decide to stay in the region.
- Regional Collaboration: He rejects the idea that communities exist in a vacuum. Under his philosophy, a new business in Templeton or a playground upgrade in Winchendon provides a “rising tide” that helps the entire North Central Massachusetts region by drawing in residents and boosting the collective economy.
- Boots-on-the-Ground Perspective: He intends to maintain active engagement with the district by attending selectmen and school committee meetings in all constituent communities to ensure state support aligns with local needs
The infographic below provides further details on key policy initiatives such as infrastructure, transportation, education, healthcare, housing, and economic development. Gardner Mayor Nicholson presents a background characterized by high academic achievement and diverse municipal experience.
City Council 4-21-26 (4/22/2026)

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

City Council 4-21-26

Personnel, Fiscal Responsibility, and Accessibility Among Topics of City Council

The Gardner City Council met on April 21, 2026 and confirmed various appointments. The council authorized a five year contract for a police policy delivery system and approved salary step designations for specific non-union department heads to improve pay consistency, an action which received positive comment by Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas.

The Council reviewed a communication from Mayor Michael Nicholson regarding his request to personally approve any expenses above $1,000 with the exception of Public Safety related items.

The ordinance regarding signage went to first printing. Council President George Tyros spoke on making the council chambers more accessible to the public, noting recent changes made by the Disability Commission.

Councilor Thibeault-Munoz urged participation in the Keep Gardner Beautiful event on Saturday, April 25th. Councilor Kazinskas urged people to attend the library book sale.

The Council voted to send a letter of appreciation to State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik who has announced his intention to leave his position at the end of this term.
Nathan Boudreau Interview (4/21/2026)

For more information on candidate Nathan Boudreau, visit his website, CLICK HERE.

INTERVIEW: Candidate for State Representative Nate Boudreau

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

Nathan Boudreau Interview 4-21-26

Nathan Boudreau is a candidate for the State Representative seat in the 2nd Worcester district, aiming to succeed the long-serving Jon Zlotnik. Boudreau’s platform is centered on his identity as a “systems thinker” and reform-based leader with nearly 20 years of experience in municipal government and consulting. His primary objective is to address the misalignment between state funding formulas (specifically Chapter 90 for roads and Chapter 70 for schools) and the actual needs of local municipalities.

Boudreau advocates for a data-driven, transparent approach to governance, emphasizing the use of technology and AI to streamline administrative processes and reinvest resources into constituent services. He argues that rural and regional communities—specifically Gardner, Templeton, Ashburnham, and Winchendon—are often marginalized by state mandates that lack corresponding financial support. His strategy involves moving beyond “speeches” to achieve measurable results in budgets, focusing on grant-writing assistance for smaller towns, infrastructure modernization, and human-centric approaches to mental health and public safety.
Hotline Radio 4-18-26 (4/18/2026)

WGAW Hotline Radio Show Focuses on Politics on Saturday April 18, 2026

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

Hotline Radio 4-18-26

First up on Hotline Radio: Gardner Mayor Nicholson explained his reason for choosing to run for State Representative given Jon Zlotnik’s decision not to run again. – Discussion turned to local issues including the Master Plan — The Mayor spoke on the budget and various changes being made to save money.

David Pierce of Straightaway Records on Parker Street spoke briefly about Record Store Day

In an Interview with Nate Boudreau, Candidate for State Representative. Boudreau spoke about his educational qualifications and his experience in local government. —John Reilly Jr., another candidate put out a statement on Facebook and the short AUDIO was played. — Commentary: Werner Poegel on Earth Day and Keep Gardner Beautiful. —

Interview with Jon Zlotnik on his decision to not seek reelection this year. Zlotnik has served for 14 years. Zlotnik explained how he gained in interest in politics and told of first running for the position of State Representative. — To finish out the show: Comedy Routine: Abbott and Costello “Who’s on First”
Public Welfare 4-17-26 (4/17/2026)

Funding Crisis, Education, and Youth Focus of Public Welfare Committee Meeting

The Gardner Public Welfare Committee met on Friday, April17, 2026 and heard from various local officials regarding the fiscal year 2027 School Budget and other matters. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Public Welfare 4-17-26

Local officials and educators describe a funding crisis driven by skyrocketing costs for health insurance, special education transportation, and out-of-district placements. Despite these financial hurdles, the Gardner Public Schools demonstrate high performance relative to their high percentage of low-income and high-need students.

The presentation also includes updates from Monty Tech, highlighting its vocational training success, grant-funded improvements, and a new lottery-based admissions process. Finally, the committee reviewed a positive progress report on the Gardner Community Youth Center, noting increased student membership and successful community outreach events.
This Week 4-17-26 (4/17/2026)

Our Weekly News Magazine: This Week in the Chair City for Friday April 17, 2026

Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

This Week in the Chair City 4-17-26

In this week’s edition: Complete coverage of the announcement by State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik to not seek reelection and the 3 current candidates for the position including John Reilly Jr., Nathan Boudreau, and Michael Nicholson.

Gardner’s Health Insurance Crisis, the $811,000 snow and ice deficit, proposed water rate hikes, the spending freeze, Chief of Staff (or Director of Facilities and Communications), Gardner Academy moving to High School in September, Senior Center preparing for move to Waterford, Officer of the Year, the Gardner 20 Year Master Plan, Signage Regulations, Development Projects, Golf Course Irrigation, Landfill Construction, Environmental Violations, Nuclear Reactors, Earth Day, Fire Risk, and upcoming meetings.
Reilly for State Rep (4/17/2026)

Ashburnham Resident John Reilly Jr. Announces Run for State Representative

John Reilly Jr. had decided to run for State Representative prior to Jonathan Zlotnik’s recent decision not to seek reelection. Reilly registered the domain name, reillyformass.com on March 9, 2026, CLICK HERE and has a Facebook page, CLICK HERE. Reilly released this statement on April 17, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

John Reilly Jr. statement on 4-17-26

Reilly’s website identifies a clear set of priorities for his tenure in the State House: Restoring Opportunity: Creating pathways for economic and personal growth within the district. Strengthening opportunity: Enhancing local ties and collective resilience. Increasing Affordability: A vow to “make things more affordable for everyone” addressing the economic pressures facing residents. Constituent Representation: A commitment to providing a “stronger voice” for the people of District 2.

Gardner Magazine has reached out to John Reilly Jr. offering an opportunity for an interview. We have not yet heard back from the candidate.
Gardner’s Healthcare Insurance Crisis (4/16/2026)
Watch video right from this page or click to watch in a larger view from YouTube.

CLICK on infographic below for a larger, printable letter-size view.
Gardner’s Healthcare Insurance Crisis – What Insurance Option is best for FY 2027?

The City of Gardner is currently self-insured and the bills are going up, up, up

The City of Gardner has seen a surge in healthcare costs of over $5 million in the last 7 years. Gardner Mayor Nicholson did an information session to outline possibilities. Watch the video by clicking play. The video contains some helpful charts.

The City of Gardner is currently addressing a significant health insurance budgeting challenge. Since 2019, insurance costs in the city’s budget have increased by $5.5 million, with a projected increase of $1.4 million for the upcoming fiscal year alone.

As a self-insured municipality, the city maintains a trust fund to cover medical claims; however, this fund is currently under-capitalized at $2.1 million, well below the Department of Revenue’s suggested healthy level of $4.5 million.

To stabilize the city’s financial future and avoid drastic service cuts or “receivership” (municipal bankruptcy), four primary options have been presented to employees and retirees. These range from maintaining the status quo with a 12.5% rate increase to joining the state’s Group Insurance Commission (GIC).

Decisions on plan changes and provider shifts are governed by the Public Employee Committee (PEC) through a weighted voting process dictated by state law. No final decisions have been made, and the city is currently seeking input from all stakeholders through their respective union and retiree representatives.

So what is the appropriate solution? Local adjustment strategy with local control or joining a state group? The Chair Man and the Chair Lady debate the facts, going over all the intricate details involved in this important decision. It’s an interesting debate on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEBATE – Gardner’s Healthcare Insurance Crisis

View the infographic AT LEFT for more details. Clicking on it will bring up a printable letter size version.

Implementation Timelines and Next Steps

The path forward depends on the option selected and the speed of the PEC’s vote.
- Option 1 Timeline: Mayoral approval only. Open enrollment in May; effective July 1.
- Option 2 Timeline:
  
  2A: If PEC votes by May 1, 10% rate is effective July 1.
  
  2B: If PEC votes after May 1, a 12.5% rate is applied temporarily on July 1, dropping to 10% after a mandatory 60-day notice period.
- Option 3 (GIC) Timeline: Requires a six-month notice. If a decision is reached by July 1, the city could join the GIC on January 1.
- Action Item: All employees and retirees are directed to contact their PEC representatives to express their preference among the four options before the upcoming committee meeting.
Public Service 4-16-26 (4/16/2026)

Public Service Committee Reviews DPW, Engineering, and Conservation at April 16th meeting.

The committee addressed critical infrastructure updates, budgetary deficits within the Department of Public Works (DPW), and a significant proposed multi-year water rate increase. Key takeaways include a $3,000 full water/sewer abatement due to administrative oversight, a severe $811,000 deficit in the snow and ice budget, and a four-year plan to raise water rates beginning with a 20% increase in July 2026 to prevent the Water Enterprise Account from zeroing out by 2027. Additionally, the Engineering and Conservation departments reported on major grant-funded projects, including the “Safe Streets and Roads for All” initiative and the $2 million Keyes Road culvert replacement. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Public Service 4-16-26
Boudreau for State Rep (4/16/2026)

View this Press Release from Nathan Boudreau, CLICK HERE.

Former Gardner City Councilor Nathan Boudreau Announces Run for State Representative

On April 16, 2026, Nathan Boudreau announced his candidacy for State Representative. Here is Boudreau’s statement: “Nathan Boudreau has announced his candidacy for State Representative in the 2nd Worcester District, representing Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and Winchendon.

Boudreau, a former five-term Gardner City Councillor and municipal administrator with more than 15 years of experience in local and state government, is running on a clear premise: state government fails communities not through malice, but through misalignment — mandates without resources, compliance without support, and decisions made far from the people living with the consequences.

“I’m running to bring accountability, clarity, and real-world experience to Beacon Hill — and to make sure this district is not an afterthought when decisions get made,” Boudreau said.

Boudreau has earned the endorsement of State Senator Peter Durant, who cited his deep understanding of both local and state government and his ability to deliver practical, well-thought-out solutions for the district.”
Nicholson for State Representative (4/16/2026)

Links: Nomination Papers – Donate to Campaign –Request a Lawn Sign – Campaign Volunteer Form – Email Sign-up

Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Announces Run for State Representative

On April 16, 2026, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson announced his candidacy for State Representative. Here is the Mayor’s statement:

“I am excited to announce that I am running to be our State Representative.

Cities and Towns across Massachusetts are struggling with tighter and tighter budgets which is putting more and more pressure on local services and taxpayers. I think Beacon Hill could benefit from more insight into the struggles facing municipalities.

The struggles of declining enrollment in our schools, rising costs, especially for health insurance, and pressure from statewide municipal cost increases. If we want to stabilize municipal budgets we need creative statewide solutions.

My experience as a Mayor, and previously as the Town Administrator of a small rural town gives me a unique perspective that is underrepresented in the legislature.

I see the affordability and the housing crisis play out for my constituents every day. More and more people are finding themselves unable to afford bills, rent, and mortgages. I’ve pushed through innovative and strong solutions to these problems. I’ve reduced red tape in City Hall, rethought how we approach economic development, and incentivized housing growth that meets the needs of our residents and fits into the character of our communities, while also investing in our infrastructure and education system. I understand how a strong partnership between the state and our communities can make a big difference and I also understand where the state can place burdens on municipalities that limit our flexibility and impact local taxpayers.

To get at the heart of the issues facing our district and the Commonwealth as a whole, we need people who can bring firsthand experience and solutions. With my experience in town and city government and as a lifelong resident of this area, I am uniquely qualified to serve in this role and will be ready to hit the ground running on day one.

I also want to take a moment to thank Representative Zlotnik for his partnership and hard work over the last fourteen years. His efforts have resulted in significant funds coming directly to Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and Winchendon to support the revitalization of our community.

Mayor Mike Nicholson”
Planning 4-14-26 (4/16/2026)

Local Development Projects, Signage Regulations, and Master Plan Subject of Planning Board

The City of Gardner Planning Board met on April 14, 2026 and addressed several local development projects and legislative updates. A decision on 0 Emerald Street was postponed due to pending variance approvals regarding property frontage and deck placements. Discussion then shifted to the Walmart fuel station proposal, where engineers detailed updated plans for snow storage, lighting levels, and drainage maintenance to satisfy environmental requirements. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Planning Board 4-14-26

The Board recommended a City Ordinance change that reclassifies signage regulations within the City code. An announcement was made regarding the public review period for the City’s new 20 year Master Plan which aims to guide long-term regional growth. Further details in the infographic.
Officer Spain Honored (4/16/2026)

Top: Officer Ryan Spain and family. Bottom: Deputy Chief Maroni, Chief McAvene, and Officer Spain. Publisher’s Note: Due to various proactive efforts, the crime rate in Gardner has fallen by almost half in the last 5 years.

Officer of the Year Announced at Gardner PD Awards Banquet

On Friday, April 10, 2026 the Gardner Police Department held its 2025 Officer of the Year Awards Banquet. The Officer of the Year is awarded to a department member who is outstanding in their commitment, dedication, and service to public safety and the Gardner community.

School Resource Officer Ryan Spain was proudly awarded this title for his impact on Gardner Public Schools and numerous community engagement programs that connect the department with the community it serves.

The banquet is held each year to honor the legacy of late Gardner officers Lieutenant Kenneth Arsenault and Officer Ronald Hough, after whom the award is in memory of. Also honored was Ronald’s daughter, the late Heather Newton, a dedicated dispatcher with GPD for 17 years.

In addition to Officer of the Year, this event recognized members of the department who achieved 5,10 and 15 years of service. Current and retired officers and their families gathered to celebrate the dedication to service by officers and the loved ones who support them.
Zlotnik 4-16-26 (4/16/2026)

State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik’s tenure has been notable for his work in supporting various initiatives including education, job training, veteran’s housing, and bringing home funding for various projects including the Rear Main Street Project and the Waterford Community Center. Zlotnik also secured helpful funding for Heywood Hospital during their financial crisis. The 2nd Worcester District includes: Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and precincts 2 and 3 in Winchendon.

“Z Man” Not Seeking Reelection

When he got the job over a decade ago, State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik was barely old enough to drink a beer. Now 14 years later, with a number of notable achievements under his belt, State Representative Zlotnik has announced that he will not be seeking another term. Zlotnik first was elected at age 21 to serve the 2nd Worcester District. Now at age 35, Zlotnik is old enough to be President of the United States. Zlotnik told Gardner Magazine that he’ll be able to provide information in a few weeks on what he’s doing next.

This is the statement from Jon Zlotnik: “Usually this is the time of year when I let everyone know that I have completed the paperwork to appear on the ballot in November. However, I’ve decided not to seek another term as our Representative to the House and will leave office at the end of this term. Over the last 14 years we have accomplished a great deal together and have much to be proud of in this district. Our community is resilient, and full of potential. I ran for this seat because I felt then, and still feel now, that to best harness that opportunity we need to bring state resources and local cooperation to bear. It has been an honor to serve this district and now it is time to pass the torch.

To all my supporters, thank you. You’ve stood in all sorts of New England weather holding my signs. You’ve funded my campaigns, put my sign on your lawn, and encouraged me along the way. You’ve convinced your friends, family, and neighbors to keep voting for me. You took a chance many years ago on a 21 year old kid, fresh out of college, with little on his resume, and gave him a shot. I hope I have earned that trust you placed in me, and lived up to the chance you took.“
Yard Waste April ’26 (4/15/2026)

Gardner Magazine is using just a little bit of humor to get out this schedule information. Have fun with your yard work!

Transfer Station Availability for Yard Waste Disposal Affected by ongoing Construction

The Gardner Health Department put out this advisory to residents of Gardner:

“TRANSFER STATION UPDATE: Due to the Construction at the transfer station the following is a schedule for yard waste this week.

WEDNESDAY: 04/15/26 No Yard Waste Accepted

THURSDAY: 04/16/26 Yard Waste Accepted

FRIDAY: 04/17/26 No Yard Waste Accepted

SATURDAY: 04/18/26 Yard Waste Accepted

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”
Finance 4-14-26 (4/15/2026)

The infographic below provides further detail on the meeting of the Finance Committee, April 14, 2026.

Finance Committee Reviews the Numbers and Discusses Proposed NEW Chief of Staff position

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

Finance Committee 4-14-26

The committee recommended that the full City Council approve a 5 year contract for the police department’s reporting and policy system. Mayor Nicholson proposed a new Chief of Staff position, intended to centralize municipal facilities management, oversight of the Waterford Community Center and City-wide communications. Also reviewed: a Four year schedule for water rate increases necessitated by infrastructure loan repayments and rising operational costs. Additionally, the Mayor provided a detailed update on the City’s health insurance trust fund, outlining various options to address a projected $1.4 million budget increase. Discussions also focused on non-essential spending freezes, department head salary steps, and administrative budget transfers.
Appointments 4-14-26 (4/15/2026)

Appointments Committee Reviewed Several Appointment Items

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

Appointments Committee 4-14-26

The Gardner Appointments Committee meeting held on April 14, 2026, focused on the review of several city board appointments, the clarification of appointment term lengths, and the implementation of new administrative tracking procedures. Key takeaways include the recommendation for the reappointment of Paulette Burns to the Board of Assessors, the withdrawal of Miller Cornet’s zoning board reappointment following his resignation, and the approval of a bundled group of appointees for full council confirmation. Burns has served for more than 20 years.

Significantly, the committee addressed a policy clarification regarding the Mayor’s flexibility in setting appointment terms and introduced a more organized 90-day window tracking system for upcoming vacancies. Several items, including job description changes for the Human Resources and Youth Center directors, remain on the agenda pending the submission of comparative documentation.
License Commission 4-14-26 (4/15/2026)

Municipal Alcohol Licensing Matters Focus of 7 Minute License Commission Meeting

Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

License Commission 4-14-26

Various municipal alcohol licensing matters are addressed. On the agenda: Polish American Citizens Club, Sawa Asian License Transfer, and seasonal license renewals.

The Commission expressed frustration over a year-long delay regarding a license transfer for Sawa Asian, citing a lack of communication from the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC). To prevent future licensing lapses, the Commission announced a plan to realign inspection schedules with the ABCC renewal cycle.
Gardner Academy 4-15-26 (4/15/2026)
Principal Bartkus is the principal for Gardner High School and Gardner Academy effective April 14, 2026. Mr. Beauregard and Mr. Baumeister will continue to be the school’s lead teachers. Collaboration with MWCC will be expanded. Students will have more access to mental health and tiered supports. Gardner Academy for Learning and Technology will be a small, separate school within GHS starting in September 2026.

Success of Gardner Academy Actually Helps with Needed Budget Cuts in Gardner MA

With the district’s improvement plan being successful and 50% fewer students falling through the cracks, a cut to the Gardner Academy budget was a logical move. Gardner School Superintendent Mark Pellegrino has announced that beginning in September 2026, Gardner Academy will be housed at Gardner High School with significantly fewer staff.

Here is a copy of the communication sent out to families, CLICK HERE.

Superintendent Mark Pellegrino’s letter announces that Gardner Academy for Learning and Technology will be restructured into a specialized program located within Gardner High School starting in September 2026. This decision stems from a significant decrease in student enrollment at the Academy and necessary budgetary adjustments within the district. While the Academy will physically move, it will remain a distinct educational entity featuring small class sizes, dedicated lead teachers, and its own principal. The reorganization aims to improve student outcomes by providing enhanced mental health resources** and expanding vocational and college preparatory partnerships. Ultimately, the district intends for this transition to maintain intensive academic support while utilizing shared resources more efficiently.

Gardner Academy Success as a Catalyst for Change

The Gardner Academy was established in 2008 with a critical and urgent mandate: to serve as a robust safety net for a district where the dropout rate had reached a troubling threshold of nearly one in ten students. At its inception, the Academy functioned as an essential intervention, separate from the main high school. However, over the last fifteen years, the Academy acted as a pedagogical laboratory; its successes in alternative education began to influence the broader culture of Gardner High School (GHS).

The data reflects this institutional evolution. In 2011, the Academy’s average enrollment stood at approximately sixty resident students. Today, that number has been reduced to thirty resident students. This 50% decrease in the resident student population is not a sign of the program’s irrelevance, but rather a testament to the “win” the district has achieved. As the primary high school internalized the Academy’s strategies and made significant progress in student retention, the need for a large-scale, external safety net naturally diminished.

Under this new structure, Gardner Academy remains a “small, separate school.” It will continue to utilize dedicated classrooms and provide intensive support, but it will do so within the physical walls of the larger institution. This hybridity is a sophisticated response to the needs of the modern learner—balancing the intimacy of a specialized program with the resource-rich, socially integrated environment of a larger high school. By co-locating, the district ensures that Academy students are integrated into the broader school community without sacrificing the protective, small-group atmosphere that defines their academic experience.

The new structure offers several strategic benefits:
- Enhanced Mental Health Access: By sharing resources with the main high school, students gain increased access to comprehensive mental health services and tiered support systems.
- Expanded Career and College Pathways: A deepened collaboration with Mount Wachusett Community College will provide expanded vocational training and college preparatory courses.
- Dedicated Specialized Support: The Academy will retain a dedicated special education teacher to support its small class sizes and intensive instructional model.
- Institutional Stability: The retention of veteran lead teachers ensure that the program’s core values and relationships are preserved despite the change in physical “shell.”
The evolution of Gardner Academy serves as a vital reminder that reorganization is not synonymous with failure; often, it is the necessary byproduct of success. By moving to a “school within a school” model, Gardner Public Schools is optimizing its resources to ensure that alternative learners receive elite vocational, mental health, and academic support in an integrated setting.
Earth Day 2026 (4/14/2026)

View our complete Earth Day page with multiple reports, DEEP DIVE and Debate podcasts, a short video, and detailed infographics. For the complete page, CLICK HERE

For details on the April 25th Keep Gardner Beautiful Day, visit their Facebook page, CLICK HERE.

Earth Day 2026: Gardner Magazine Reports

Earth Day is April 22, 2026 and Gardner Magazine has complete coverage of its history, impact, protecting the earth, and the evolution of U.S. Environmental policy. For the complete page, CLICK HERE. And don’t forget, Keep Gardner Beautiful Day is coming up on Saturday, April 25th. Facebook page, CLICK HERE.

Jump to a report, CLICK a LINK: Earth Day: Origins, Global Evolution, and Environmental Impact —- The $2,000 Gamble That Saved the World: 7 Surprising Truths About the Birth of Earth Day —- Our Planet, Our Power: A Guide to Protecting the Earth —The Story of Earth Day: From a Campus Idea to a Global Movement —- Strategic Communications Plan: Scaling Environmental Stewardship Through Thematic Mobilization — The Evolution of United States Environmental Policy: From Resource Utilization to Regulatory Oversight

Listen to a “Deep Dive” podcast on any device providing an in-depth analysis.

DEEP DIVE – Earth Day 2026

Listen to a “Debate” podcast on any device with a critical discussion about Earth Day.

DEBATE – Earth Day and the Environment

Mount Wachusett is Launching “The Mount Seed Library” on Earth Day

Mount Wachusett Community College will officially launch the Mount Seed Library on Tuesday, April 22nd in honor of Earth Day.

In a Press Release, MWCC noted: Co-sponsored by the MWCC LaChance Library and the Environmental Conservation and Regenerative Agriculture Program, The Mount Seed Library will be a resource for the community to “check out” seeds (saving and returning seeds is optional), encouraging biodiversity and promoting sustainability and community engagement through seed sharing, seed saving, and education.”

The Mount Seed Library founding will be celebrated with a launch and a seed swap event from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the LaChance Library. The event is open to students, faculty, staff, and the broader community. Attendees are invited to bring seeds to swap, enjoy refreshments, and explore the new library.

In addition to the seed library launch, MWCC will celebrate Earth Day with a Farmer’s Market from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Commons, and a workshop on seed starting with recycled materials from 4:30 to 5:30 pm in the LaChance Library.

The Mount Seed Library is the result of a collaborative, campus-wide effort involving MWCC staff and students, CAPS Collaborative students, and faculty in the environmental programs. The initiative also benefits from the guidance of librarians at the Mass Aggie Seed Library at UMass Amherst.

The library’s initial collection includes hundreds of seeds generously donated by The Good Earth Farm and Garden Center in Gardner, as well as seeds grown and harvested at the MWCC Greenhouse. Aubuchon Hardware in Gardner has also pledged future seed donations.

“The Mount Seed Library reflects our commitment to sustainability, education, and community connection,” said MWCC President James Vander Hooven. “It’s a resource that empowers individuals to grow their own food while learning about environmental stewardship.”

For more information about how the seed library works, to register for the event, and for seed library hours, please visit: The MWCC Seed Library packets will be available at the launch event on Earth Day.
School Committee 4-13-26 (4/14/2026)

Looming Fiscal Challenges Dominate Discussion at the Gardner School Committee Meeting

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

School Committee 4-13-26

While there have been significant academic achievements and high accountability ratings at Gardner High School, the district is grappling with a projected $1.5 million budget deficit even after $1 million in preliminary cuts. Primary driver: 12.5% increase in health insurance costs which Gardner Mayor Nicholson detailed in comments at the end of the meeting. The Mayor outlined four distinct insurance options, emphasizing the need for a proactive decision by May 1, 2026 to ensure the City’s long-term financial stability. Additionally, the committee addressed facility maintenance, policy revisions, and the likelihood of staff reductions to balance the upcoming budget.

Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel addressed the School Committee to praise all involved in the successes of the district and to request a notification plan for school closings and delays. Following the meeting, Poegel met briefly with School Superintendent Mark Pellegrino who pledged to get local media and the Senior Center on the list next year.
Conservation 4-13-26 (4/14/2026)

Lengthy Meeting of Conservation Commission Addresses Environmental Violations and Ongoing Projects

The Gardner Conservation Commission met on April 13, 2026. Listen to the 1 hour+ meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Conservation Commission 4-13-26

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the Sludge Landfill enforcement order, with members deciding to keep the case open through the rainy season to monitor potential wetland contamination.

The Conservation Commission also reviewed unauthorized clearing and grading at 86 Linwood Street where they directed the property owner to develop a formal restoration and planting plan. Similarly, a representative from Burger King appeared to discuss the illegal removal of trees along a local brook, leading the board to request the involvement of a wetland specialist. The request for a carport on Travers Street was approved under specific conditions to ensure minimal impact on the nearby riverfront area.
Golf Commission 4-13-26 (4/14/2026)

Irrigation Crisis at Gardner Golf Course – Failing Pump House

The Gardner Golf Commission met on April 13, 2026 to address a critical irrigation crisis caused by a failing pump house. Officials detailed how corroded metal pipes and a decaying wet well have allowed sediment to block the watering system, forcing the course to rely on limited city water. The commission evaluated several costly solutions, ranging from installing a temporary plastic sleeve to bonding a half-million dollars for an entirely new pump house. Financial reports currently show a modest surplus though these figures are expected to shift as expensive infrastructure repairs and seasonal equipment leases are finalized. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Golf Commission 4-13-26
Westminster – Issues and Answers (4/12/2026)

“Town Meeting 101” Guide incorporated in the Westminster Town Crier Episode 23

Listen to the podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Westminster Town Crier – Episode 23

Westminster Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen provides a comprehensive municipal update regarding upcoming community events and local governance. The discussion highlights springtime activities such as the farmers market, town cleanup day, and recent holiday celebrations organized by the parks committee. A significant portion of the episode serves as a “Town Meeting 101” guide, explaining the 23 warrant articles and the $30 million budget proposal set for voter approval in May. Lahtinen also addresses administrative requirements, including the deadline for dog license renewals and the status of a new 40B housing development on Adam Street.

Gardner Magazine also has Town Crier Episode 22 which focuses on municipal affairs and community life and features an interview with ML Altobelli who discusses the town’s agriculture heritage and the benefits of being a right-to-farm community. Discussion highlights the upcoming Westminster Farmers Market and provides practical advice for residents interested in backyard gardening. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Town Crier Episode 22

The episode also focused on the impact of a fatal car accident involving an Oakmont student, the town has extended condolences and deployed support resources. Support Presence: School resource officers have maintained a significant presence to assist students and staff. Resource Availability: Residents are encouraged to utilize support through local schools, the public safety department, and community networks.
Fire 4-11-26 (4/12/2026)

Gardner Fire Department Provides Mutual Aid to Hubbardston Brush Fire – Highlights High Fire Risk

Gardner’s Truck 5, Truck 10, and C1 responded to the Town of Hubbardston on Saturday, April 11, 2026. The firefighters were there to put out a brush fire. GFD posted: “Please use extreme caution when burning outdoors.”

As of early April 2026, the fire danger level in Greater Gardner and Worcester County is high, driven by an “elevated wildfire risk” from an extended dry spell, lack of significant spring rain, and dry, accumulated vegetation.

Burn Restrictions: The annual open burning season in Massachusetts runs from January 15th to May 1st, but local fire departments often pause burning due to high fire danger. You must call the Gardner Fire Department to check if permits are activated for the day and to ensure burning is allowed.

Dry Weather Alert: While some drought conditions in Worcester County improved in early April, the area saw one of its driest Februarys on record, creating a persistent, high-risk situation.

Precaution: Any spark can trigger rapid spread of fire, so caution is advised when using machinery, cooking, or disposing of smoking materials.

If you plan on any outdoor burning, please make sure to check the Gardner Fire Department’s burn permit status for that day.
MWCC Celebrations 2026 (4/11/2026)

For a printable letter-size version of above, CLICK HERE to download.

Mount Wachusett Community College Releases Year-End Celebration Schedule

All events will be held on the Gardner campus at 444 Green Street, Gardner, MA 01440. Details, live streams, and programs will be posted at mwcc.edu/celebrate.

The 61st Commencement Ceremonies are May 20th with other ceremonies that day including those for the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, School of Business – Science – Technology – Mathematics, the School of Liberal Arts – Social Sciences – Education, the Associate Degree in Nursing, the Dental Pinning, and Veterinary Technology Pinning. The Gateway to College and Pathways Early College Graduation Ceremony is May 22nd at 1pm.

For a printable letter-size version, CLICK HERE to download.

For more information about Mount Wachusett Community College visit the website, CLICK HERE.

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Hotline Radio 4-11-26 (4/11/2026)

Area 4-1-1 on April 11^th: WGAW Hotline Radio

The WGAW Hotline Radio Show on April 11, 2026 provided listeners with the 4-11 (a play on the date) , details on area goings on. Listen to the entire program on any device, CLICK PLAY.

WGAW Hotline Radio 4-11-26

Gardner Mayor Nicholson was first up on the program and addressed the concerns regarding the Fiscal 2027 budget. Other topics discussed included enrollment at Mount Wachusett Community College, the Gardner Youth Center, Summer Recreation registration, and Heywood Hospital. Mayor Nicholson stated that the City will be utilizing funds from projects which came in under budget to fund the huge difference with the cost of electricity to the Rear Main Street Project, now projected at $962,000. Nicholson congratulated Senior Center Director Mike Ellis who was presented with an award by the Gardner Elks designating him as Citizen of the Year.

Other segments included a commentary and report with Werner Poegel on Small Modular Nuclear Reactors and the real possibility of Gardner going nuclear. Steve Wendell spoke about the Disability Commission and had an interview regarding Adaptive Sports. Mike Urban’s commentary focused on common sense solutions to MA problems. There was a segment with Governor Maura Healey who used munchkins to illustrate her views on electricity. An interview with David Pierce of Straightaway Records… The show ended with a satire song about “Who Can Take Your Money and Give it to some other guy.”
National Pet Day 4-11-26 (4/10/2026)

Listen to this short “Deep Dive” about National Pet Day. The Chair Man and the Chair Man suggest doctors prescribe a shelter pet. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – National Pet Day – Adopt a Pet

National Pet Day is Saturday, April 11, 2026 in Greater Gardner MA

Why National Pet Day is More Than Just a Social Media Trend: 5 Surprising Truths

There is a specific kind of silence in a house that only the heartbeat of a pet can fill—the rhythmic thumping of a tail against a floorboard or the steady, vibrating hum of a cat curled in a sunbeam. For those of us who share our lives with animals, every day feels like a celebration of that bond. However, since 2006, April 11 has served as a global focal point for this connection. Founded as National Pet Day, this date has evolved from a simple excuse to post a photo on Social Media into a sophisticated platform for medical awareness and radical animal advocacy.

1. Your Pet is a Prescription for Heart Health

For years, pet owners have claimed their animals “heal” them, but over the last decade, science has finally caught up to the sentiment. Through a rigorous 10-year partnership, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been quantifying the physiological magic that happens when humans and animals interact. The research moved beyond mere observation, proving that our animal companions are essentially walking, breathing heart-health supplements.

The data confirms that the presence of a pet doesn’t just make us feel better emotionally; it physically alters our internal chemistry. By shifting our biological response to stress, pets act as a natural buffer against the wear and tear of modern life. As the research highlights:

It turns out that not only can pets steal our hearts, but they also contribute to overall cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.

By reducing the “stress hormone” cortisol and stabilizing blood pressure, our pets are active contributors to our longevity. They aren’t just cute additions to the family; they are vital partners in our long-term physical wellness.

2. The Radical Origins of “Don’t Shop! Adopt!”

While we often use National Pet Day to pamper our own companions, the holiday was born from a more urgent, activist spirit. Established in 2006 by animal welfare advocate and lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, the day was designed to shine a light on the crisis of shelter animals. The core mission is summarized in three words: “Don’t Shop! Adopt!”

The brilliance of this holiday lies in how it uses the joy of current pet ownership as a bridge to advocacy. It challenges us to move beyond the private celebration of our own pets and look toward the animals still waiting in rescues for their “forever homes.” There is a powerful psychological shift that happens when we share our pets’ stories. When you tell a neighbor about the quirks of your rescued dog or the loyalty of a shelter cat, you aren’t just bragging—you are humanizing the “rescue” label. Personal stories are the most effective tools we have to dismantle the stigma of shelter animals and encourage others to choose adoption over breeders.

3. A Celebration for the “Scale and Feather” Crowd

One of the most refreshing aspects of National Pet Day is its radical inclusivity. This isn’t a holiday exclusively for the “cats and dogs” majority. The source of the holiday’s spirit is clear: every critter that provides companionship deserves its moment in the spotlight. Whether you want to hug your hedgehog, bond with your bunny, or cut your kitty some catnip, the day is about honoring the unique spark of animal connection in all its forms.

The holiday specifically recognizes the deep bonds formed with the “scale and feather” community, reminding us that companionship isn’t limited to traditional mammals: Hedgehogs, Bunnies, Reptiles, and Birds. By celebrating this diversity, we acknowledge that the emotional support provided by a bird or a reptile is just as valid as that of a golden retriever.

4. The “Love is an Action” Checklist

In the world of animal welfare, love is a verb. While National Pet Day is a perfect excuse for extra treats and new toys, the journalist in me must remind you that the most profound way to honor a pet is through the “boring” parts of ownership. True celebration includes ensuring their long-term security through a practical safety-oriented checklist. Check Pet Tags: Ensure contact information is current and hasn’t worn away. — Update Vaccinations: Use this date as an annual trigger to verify health check-ups are current. — Review Home Safety: Inspect your living environment for new hazards or wear and tear in fencing and crates. — It is easy to celebrate the fun moments, but the “Love is an Action” checklist is what ensures those moments continue for years to come. Security is the highest form of affection we can offer.

5. The Mental Health Miracle

The psychological benefits of pet ownership are often described as a miracle, but they are actually rooted in a beautiful reciprocity. Our pets provide a reliable anchor for emotional support and stress reduction, but the real magic lies in the routine they demand.

For many, a pet provides a “reason to get out of bed in the morning.” This isn’t just a cliché; it’s a vital mental health tool. A dog doesn’t care if you’re having a bad day—they still need their walk. This “forced” movement and outdoor activity serve the owner’s mental health as much as the pet’s physical health. We feed them, and in return, they provide us with a sense of purpose and a necessary rhythm to our lives. By meeting their needs, we inadvertently meet our own.

A Legacy of Companionship

National Pet Day is a testament to the fact that animals are not just “living in” our homes—they are the heart of them. While we spend April 11 honoring the furry, feathered, or scaly loved ones currently taking up space on our sofas, the ultimate legacy of this holiday is the push to help every shelter animal find that same security. As you celebrate your companion today, take a moment to reflect on the quiet ways they’ve reshaped your world: How has your pet changed your perspective on your own health or happiness?
Golf Course 4-9-26 (4/9/2026)

Golf Course is Open for the Season

The Gardner Municipal Golf Course has opened for the season. Golf carts are allowed, but attention needs to be paid to the ropes, stakes, and arrows identifying wet areas. Course will be open daily after 5am when play can safety begin without the use of glow balls and artificial lighting and when the maintenance staff is safely ahead of play. These aides are no longer allowed to beat the sunrise.

The Gardner Municipal Golf Course was established some 9 decades ago in 1936. It’s an 18 hole facility which is described as featuring outstanding conditions and excellent greens. From the website: “Four sets of tees await golfers of all playing abilities. Beginners can shorten the course to a playable 4898 yards or you can challenge yourself and step back to the tips (Par 71, 6131 yards).

Our Members enjoy discounts on golf cart rentals, driving range tokens, and entry fees to some of our most popular events. …Besides 18 holes of pristine golf, golfers can also warm up at our driving range and putting green. After the round, grab a bite to eat at the restaurant on their second-story deck that overlooks our finishing holes (one of the most stunning dining views around!).”

For more information including rates, visit the website, CLICK HERE.
Athol MA Budget and Town Meeting Results (4/9/2026)

Publisher’s Note: We have elevated this to a front-page story rather than just having it appear on the Athol page because it is a case study which could very well be replicated in the region as other decisions are made.

Athol’s Recent Election and Ramifications

Recent election results in Athol show that residents overwhelmingly rejected two tax override proposals that were intended to fund municipal staff and infrastructure. In addition to these fiscal decisions, voters selected Russell Raymond and Alex Blake, Jr. to fill vacancies on the local Select Board. The regional elections also saw Mitch Grosky secure a position on the school committee.

The Cost of “No”: 4 Surprising Takeaways from Athol’s Recent Election

Introduction: The Small-Town Budget Paradox

Municipalities across the country struggle with a persistent paradox: residents expect high-functioning infrastructure and robust public safety, yet remain deeply resistant to the tax increases required to maintain them. In Athol, this tension recently transitioned from abstract debate to a hard fiscal reality at the ballot box. By deciding the town’s financial future through a direct vote, residents have forced a pivot from growth to contraction. The results offer a stark look at the trade-offs modern towns face when the “cost of no” is finally tallied.

Takeaway 1: The Resounding Rejection of Growth

The most immediate takeaway from the election is the decisive defeat of two Proposition 2 ½ override questions. The margins suggest that voters were not merely skeptical, but fundamentally opposed to the proposed expansions of the municipal tax levy.

Question 1A: Requested $1.8 million to maintain level municipal staffing and existing services. Defeated 1,437 to 427.

Question 1B: Requested $2.9 million for modernization and service maintenance. Rejected 1,624 to 222.

While Question 1A was aimed at maintaining the status quo, the failure of Question 1B highlights a significant “modernization gap.” This measure would have funded critical, professionalized roles: a Human Resources Director, an IT Director, and a Director of Facilities. By rejecting these positions, the electorate has effectively halted the town administration’s efforts to transition toward a more efficient, modern municipal management structure, signaling a preference for leaner, traditional operations over administrative modernization.

Takeaway 2: “Essential” Services are No Longer Sacred

The common assumption that police, fire, and public works are shielded from budget cuts was dismantled by the election results. Town Manager Shaun Suhoski has clarified that the consequence of the funding gap is absolute. Without the override revenue, the town must move immediately into a phase of personnel eliminations that hit the very core of community safety and infrastructure.

The specific departments facing imminent reductions include: Police, Fire, Public Works, and General Government

The administration’s stance reflects a shift from “requesting” to “executing,” as the funding shortfall leaves no room for administrative maneuvering. As Shaun Suhoski stated: “The road ahead encompasses what’s been online and shared publicly for the last eight weeks, in that there will be positions that are eliminated in police, fire, public works and general government.”

Takeaway 3: A Shift Toward “Trimming the Fat”

The election did more than settle the override questions; it established a new Selectboard mandate centered on fiscal restraint. In a crowded five-way race for two seats, Russell Raymond (821 votes) and Alex Blake, Jr. (675 votes) emerged victorious. Both candidates campaigned on a “cuts-first” philosophy that stands in sharp contrast to the town administration’s request for more revenue.

While the Town Manager and his team have already begun the sobering task of structuring the FY27 budget plan to accommodate these defeats, the new Selectboard members are focused on identifying internal efficiencies. Alex Blake, Jr. has indicated a strategy specifically aimed at protecting Emergency Medical Services (EMS) while searching for “fat” to trim in other areas of the budget.

Russell Raymond acknowledged the gravity of the upcoming fiscal year while remaining firm on the voters’ mandate: “I knew this was going to be a tough part of this job if elected… But I’m up for helping Shaun and the rest of the Selectboard come up with those cuts and present a budget that will help us be successful and help out the town. But I was not a big fan of the overrides.”

Takeaway 4: The 20% Influence

From a policy perspective, the election highlights a significant “representative deficit.” While the outcome will fundamentally alter daily life in Athol—affecting everything from emergency response times to road maintenance—only a small fraction of the community participated in the decision.

Out of 9,807 registered voters in Athol, only 1,880 cast ballots. This roughly 20% turnout means a minority of the population has dictated the fiscal policy and service levels for the entire town. This participation crisis was even more evident in the neighboring towns of Royalston and Petersham, where turnout hovered near 11%. This regional trend suggests a disconnect in civic engagement; even when “essential” services are on the chopping block, the vast majority of the electorate remains absent, leaving the town’s fiscal trajectory in the hands of a highly motivated few.

Conclusion: A Policy of Numbers

As Town Manager Suhoski noted, “A budget isn’t really about the numbers, it’s about policy.” The numbers in Athol now dictate a policy of contraction. As the town moves forward with an FY27 budget designed to do “the least harm” while absorbing significant cuts, it serves as a critical case study for other municipalities approaching their own fiscal cliffs.

Athol is entering a period where the theory of fiscal restraint meets the reality of reduced services. It leaves residents with a visceral question to ponder: Is the relief of a lower tax bill worth the tangible loss of the police officers, firefighters, and public works staff who sustain the community’s safety and infrastructure?
Budget – Elections – Meetings – Decisions (4/9/2026)

Communities throughout North Central Massachusetts and the Greater Gardner MA area are facing budget challenges for their upcoming Fiscal 2027 budgets.

Social media is loaded with posts from residents of various communities expressing concerns about any tax increases so any proposed overrides which might be brought to voters are expected to face uphill battles.

Spring is Decision Time in Greater Gardner MA

In the City of Gardner, the budget process for the following year starts almost after the current year budget is approved. Mayor Michael Nicholson will submit the budget to the City Council for approval. With the fiscal year beginning July 1st, City Council sub-committees will meet with various Department heads and ask pertinent questions. Note that while the Mayor submits a budget, the City Council can’t add to it, it can only make cuts. The 6 Standing committees include Finance, Public Service, Public Safety, Public Welfare, Appointments, and Economic & Community Development, Current meeting schedules and agendas can be viewed here on the City of Gardner website.

Area communities

Athol: Margins in the recent defeat of the proposed override suggest voters were fundamentally opposed to the proposed expansions of the tax levy. Question 1A asking for $1.8 million was defeated 1,437 to 427. (77% opposed) Question 1B asking for $2.9 million was defeated 1,624 to 222. (88% opposed) Consequently, Town Manager Shaun Suhoski cautioned that the community should expect significant reductions in public services, specifically affecting the fire, police, and public works departments. Orange: Has its annual town meeting on May 11th.

Ashburnham: Town election is April 28th and the Town Meeting is early May Hubbardston: Town election is June 9th, town meeting is later. Phillipston: Town Meeting is May 6th and the town election is May 16th. Templeton: Town Meeting is May 14th and the Town election is May 19th. Westminster: Town Election is April 28th and the Town Meeting is May 2nd. Winchendon: Town Election is May 4th and the Town Meeting is May 18th. Petersham: Annual Town election was April 6th while the annual town meeting is June 1st.
City Council 4-6-26 (4/7/2026)

Gardner City Council Gets Visit from State Representative Zlotnik

Featured at the Gardner City Council meeting of April 6, 2026 was a comprehensive district update from State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. Zlotnik details critical shifts in state funding formulas, noting a significant increase in road maintenance aid and the final implementation phase of the Student Opportunity Act for local schools. He warns of a tightening state budget caused by expiring federal pandemic aid and implemented tax cuts, which may necessitate more disciplined local spending. The Zlotnik update is at the beginning of the meeting. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

City Council 4-6-26

The council also addresses internal governance issues, including concerns over union negotiations for department heads and the interpretation of the city charter regarding mayoral authority. Additionally, the session includes administrative actions such as accepting donations, approving budget transfers, and receiving updates on urban revitalization projects like the Rear Main Street development. Throughout the session, officials emphasize the importance of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and strategic grant management to sustain community services.
City Council – Planning 4-6-26 (4/7/2026)

Joint Public Hearing Focuses on Signs

The Gardner City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing on April 6, 2026 to discuss moving the city’s signage regulations from the zoning code to the general ordinances. Officials argue that the current zoning requirements are too restrictive and time-consuming, citing examples where local businesses faced significant financial burdens and delays over minor issues. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Council – Planning Board 4-6-26

By reclassifying these rules, the city aims to become more business-friendly through a streamlined amendment process that allows for quicker adjustments to modern needs. Supporters believe this change will foster economic growth while still maintaining public oversight through standard legislative procedures. The hearing concludes with city leaders emphasizing the importance of removing unnecessary administrative hurdles to better support the local economy.
Council on Aging 4-6-26 (4/7/2026)

Council on Aging – Complete Briefing

The Gardner Council on Aging (COA) meeting on April 6, 2026, focused on a critical assessment of the fiscal year-end projections, operational challenges, and upcoming transitions. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Council on Aging 4-6-26

Despite successful programming and high volunteer engagement, the COA is facing a projected deficit exceeding $12,000 in energy, utilities, and facility maintenance accounts due to rising costs and emergency repairs. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the impending move to the Waterford Street building, the complexities of the FY27 budget process—which includes a mandated 3% reduction in non-salary accounts—and the continued success of the Lifeline program, which has handled nearly 900 emergency events over the past year.

Important Quotes from Director Mike Ellis: “Our actual expenses [for repairs and maintenance] have far exceeded our budget allowance… It is absolutely going to require us to go back to the mayor and the city council for a supplemental appropriation.” — “I can tell you without equivocation that the lifeline program is doing exactly what the lifeline program should do and that is save lives.”— “We build a budget to stay within the confines of the projected revenues… The reality is they’re still difficult. We’ve had trends for the last five years where our overtime expense is over $1,000 but we budgeted 500.” —”If somebody steals one of the Chromebooks, I can shut them off… It becomes absolutely useless to them. It’s the best insurance you can get for 14 bucks.” —
Board of Health 4-6-26 (4/7/2026)
Short Board of Health Meeting Addresses a Number of Topics

There was a rather short Gardner Board of Health meeting on April 6, 2026 at which Lauren Saunders was introduced at the newly appointed Health Director. This is Saunders second time in the position. You may recall Health Director Saunders was in charge during the Covid pandemic during which Gardner’s response was highly praised. Listen to the entire meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

Board of Health 4-6-26

The Board addressed several city-wide infrastructure and safety concerns. Key administrative updates included managing landfill pump repairs, seeking grants for erosion control, and pursuing budget increases for safety railings at the transfer station. The department also reported on the status of various septic systems, local housing condemnations, and the resolution of a sanitation issue at a local Price Chopper. Future initiatives were discussed regarding solid waste contract renewals, state-mandated recycling policies, and upcoming health fairs for the community.
Leachate Pump Repairs: Completion of repairs to the leachate pumps is tentatively scheduled for late April or early May 2026. One final pumping session is anticipated before the units are replaced.

Erosion Control: Erosion at the landfill remains a priority. Keller Partners has identified potential grants to fund repairs. The Health Director is coordinating with the Mayor’s office to move these grant applications forward.
Vision Zero (4/7/2026)

Vision Zero Action Committee Developing Comprehensive Roadway Safety Plan.

The Vision Zero Action Committee for the City of Gardner had its first meeting on March 31, 2026.

The goal is to develop a comprehensive roadway safety plan. City officials and consultants from Kimley Horn discuss a federal grant-funded initiative to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through a proactive, data-driven approach. Here are some of the stats from the period January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025 highlighted during the meeting: There were a total of 44 collisions with a pedestrian of which 4 resulted in a fatality, and 7 resulted in serious injury. There were 23 collisions with a cyclist of with 1 resulted in a fatality. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Vision Zero 3-31-26

The discussion highlights existing crash data, identifying high-injury networks and specific danger zones for pedestrians and cyclists throughout the city. Committee members emphasize the importance of public engagement, promoting an interactive mapping tool where residents can report safety concerns and suggest improvements. The project timeline spans 10 to 12 months, incorporating multiple public forums and interdepartmental collaboration to foster safer road user behavior and infrastructure. This outlines a strategic transition from reactive traffic management to a preventative safety system focused on protecting all community members with a completion projection of the final report in the October to December 2026 period. Once the final report is adopted, funding will be sought and the plan will then be implemented in an effort to save lives.
Senior Center April 2026 (4/6/2026)

Gardner Senior Center Programming and Services for the month of April 2026

Listen to this “Deep Dive” podcast covering all the programming and services for April 2026 on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Gardner Senior Center – April 2026

The entire newsletter is available on PDF, CLICK HERE.

This video covers the April 2026 programming and services.

All the details about April 2026 at the Gardner Senior Center, 294 Pleasant Street, Gardner MA.

The Center provides both clinical insights and preventative physical programming designed to maintain senior health and autonomy: Talk With a Doc / Curse with a Nurse: A drop-in program featuring Dr. John Harrington and Julie Ireland, RN. Scheduled for April 8 (9:30 AM) and April 22 (1:30 PM), the sessions offer health advice and social interaction in a non-clinical, informal setting. — Dental Blue 65: On April 29 at 1:30 PM, Blue Cross/Blue Shield presents options for affordable dental care, highlighting three plan designs available to those 65 and older. — Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: Running from January 1 through April 30, the Center offers free, confidential appointments with Medicare Specialists to review Part C coverage. —- Memory Care and Support: Moments Together: Presented by Allyson Chalapatas (Certified Dementia Care Partner), this session on April 15 at 4:30 PM covers the early signs of dementia and resource navigation for families. — ◦ Memory Café: Held on the fourth Friday of each month (April 24 at 11:30 AM), providing a judgment-free social space for those with memory loss and their caregivers. — Physical Fitness and Weight Management: The Center hosts a variety of tiered physical activities (typically requiring a $3.00 suggested donation) — Yoga: Includes Chair Yoga (Tuesdays at 8:30 AM and Fridays at 11:30 AM) and Mat Yoga (Fridays at 10:00 AM) — Line Dancing: Tiered levels from Beginner to Level 3, held Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. — Tai Chi: Held Thursdays at 1:00 PM. — Walking & Weights: “Steps and Smiles” meets Friday mornings at 10:00 AM at the Gardner City Hall (Perry Auditorium). TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly): A weekly weight-loss support group meeting Thursdays at 8:45 AM.

Educational and Civic Presentations —The April schedule includes several “insider” sessions designed to demystify complex legal and governmental processes. April 8 Gardner Assessors Office -Chris Kumar explains property valuation and the assessment process. — April 15 Today’s FBI An FBI Agent provides insights into federal investigations and public safety. — April 17 Breakfast with a Badge Informal Q&A session with local Gardner law enforcement. —- Creative Arts and Hobbyist Workshops — The Center fosters a robust creative community through both recurring clubs and specialized limited-run workshops. — • Music and Performance: — Retired Friends of Greendale Chorus: A concert scheduled for April 22 at 1:30 PM. — Cajón Drum Class: Rhythm-packed classes with Ron Leger starting April 6. — Ukulele: Offers both a “Strum and Sing-Along” (Tuesdays, 1:00 PM) and a Beginner Class (Tuesdays, 2:45 PM). — • Specialized Crafts: Coiled Basketry: Advanced workshop on April 13; Beginner classes scheduled for June. — Quilling with Karen: A monthly paper-art workshop (April 9 at 1:00 PM). — Central Mass Caricature Carvers: Weekly meetings every Tuesday morning. — Crafts with Jane: A May Basket workshop on April 29 ($5.00 fee).

Community Resources and Social Engagement: Practical Assistance – • AARP Tax Aide: Professional tax assistance is available every Tuesday in April. • Tech Center & Lending Library: Jen Mulvey provides technology assistance (phones, laptops, tablets) every Monday at 10:30 AM. • Food Security: The Senior Food Pantry operates on the third Wednesday (April 15), and SNAP assistance is available on the second Thursday (April 9). • Textile Recycling: The Center maintains a deposit bin for clothing, linens, and footwear, as these materials are no longer permitted in Massachusetts landfills.

Social Clubs and Literacy: • Books with Friends: Discussing Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade by Janet Sheslien Charles on April 27 at 1:00 PM. • Used Book Sale: Hosted at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library (April 23–25). • Gaming: Weekly sessions for Bingo (Thursdays, 1:00 PM), Pitch (Wednesdays, 10:00 AM), and Cribbage (Tuesdays, 1:30 PM).
Gardner Going Nuclear (4/6/2026)

Gardner Magazine has prepared a series of reports on this topic including explanations on strategic deployment, how it is possible to bring to Gardner, the strategic framework, implementation strategy, a technological primer, and the concept of passive safety allaying those “meltdown” concerns. For the complete page, CLICK HERE.

The City of Gardner might fit the concept of a microreactor with the reactor literally fitting on a truck. Gardner Magazine is advocating for the City to seek out a grant and get the “nuclear” ball rolling. We’ll keep you in the loop if we get any comments from officials.

How would Gardner pay for it? – The Department of Energy is currently giving out grants which would require a substantial matching contribution by Gardner. Gardner would become its own municipal electric service and charge residents between 10 to 15 cents per kilowatt hour in order to cover a municipal bond.

Could the City of Gardner go Nuclear? – A possible energy future for the “Model City for America”

The City of Gardner is impressing the nation with its success in so many different areas and has been named the “Model City for America” by this publication and the moniker appears to be sticking. Gardner Magazine has looked into whether Gardner could go nuclear, actually bringing a small modular nuclear reactor online to serve the City’s power needs. Watch this cinematic video on the subject.

VIDEO: Gardner Blueprint SMRs

Listen to this “Deep Dive” podcast discussing the issue on any device.

DEEP DIVE – Small Modular Reactor

Small Modular Nuclear Reactors – Reports by Gardner Magazine. Click a link to jump to a particular report. Strategic Deployment —- The Nuclear Renaissance is Small, Modular, and Coming to a Town Near You — Strategic Framework for Regional SMR Deployment on Reclaimed Industrial Lands — Implementation Strategy: Integrating Small-Scale Nuclear Energy into Urban Infrastructure —- Scaling the Atom: A Technological Primer on Modern Nuclear Reactors — The New Atomic Era: A Concept Summary of Passive Safety and Environmental Impact
This Week 4-5-26 (4/5/2026)

Special Easter Edition: This Week in the Chair City for April 5, 2026

Listen to our AUDIO news magazine, “This Week in the Chair City” on any device, CLICK PLAY.

This Week in the Chair City – SPECIAL EASTER EDITION – 4-5-26

In this week’s program: A comprehensive update on recent developments in Gardner, highlighting both Mayor Nicholson and George Tyros regarding municipal issues in Gardner MA. Detailed are administrative tensions within the Airport Commission. The Gardner Youth Center is receiving funding for another year and Lauren Saunders has returned as the City’s Health Director. We address concerns relating to the drought conditions and fire safety risks across the region. Included is an original Easter song and commentary. We end with a list of upcoming meetings.

JUMP TO: North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week
Hotline 4-4-26 (4/4/2026)

Gardner City Leaders Headline Hotline Radio Show of April 4, 2026

Both Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and City Council President George Tyros appeared on the program. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Hotline Radio 4-4-26

First up on Hotline – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – Safe Roads and Streets The Mayor spoke of the “Vision Zero” plan to create a comprehensive safety plan to make roads in Gardner safer. City will develop a plan and then apply for a grant for construction. The Mayor discussed various problem intersections. —- The City of Gardner is expecting decisions soon on various grants — A discussion of Gardner’s various industrial parks. “We’re happy those parks are filling up.” Gardner is looking in to a 4^th industrial park. — Mayor Nicholson spoke on how Gardner does its “full court press” to attract new businesses to maintain a strong economy in Gardner. —- Flowerpot sponsorships are still available “a nice way to bring life to Downtown”—- Lauren Saunders back as Gardner’s Health Director — Department Head Unionization — Summer Recreation sign-up registration is already active and live — Status of the Greenwood Pool. Mayor Nicholson wished everyone a very Happy Easter.

Interview with George Tyros: Gardner City Council President. – There was an extensive discussion regarding the City Council’s desire to be involved in any negotiations with personnel under its purview. – Various appointments were discussed including the Historical Commission and preserving Gardner’s history. – Council President Tyros praised Mayor Nicholson’s role in obtaining grants for the City of Gardner. – A discussion of how the state of Massachusetts is at the forefront of many grants. – A discussion of the budget season including grants, the School budget presentation, and other continuing work. “It’s about to get very busy in May.” Problems are complex, costs are rising. “Gardner is not immune to the challenges every municipality is facing right now.”

Other segments: Werner Poegel with a commentary: “Easter Reflections” – exploring Easter and the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday. —- Awesome Vinyl Interview – Straightaway Records – Host Steve Wendell interviews owner David Pierce of Straightaway Records which is located at 118 Parker Street in Downtown Gardner. The store sells both new and used records. David Pierce spoke about his background working for other record stores before getting in to business for himself. Record Store Day is Saturday April 18^th and Pierce has ordered some special records for sale that day. —- Mike Urban with a commentary on Criminal Undocumented Aliens in Massachusetts and politicians funding pet projects. Urban commented on fraud in MA including SNAP.
Public Welfare 4-3-26 (4/3/2026)

To view the infographic below in greater clarity, click the IMAGE for a larger view.

Gardner Community Youth Center Success Focus of Public Welfare Committee Meeting

The Gardner Public Welfare Committee meeting on April 3, 2026 revealed a successful Gardner Youth Center. Director Brandon Hughey reviewed the progress of the Community Youth Center during its initial pilot year. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Public Welfare 4-3-26

Director Hughey’s good news drew broad smiles from the Mayor and Councilor Brooks while Councilors Cormier and Hardern contained their excitement. Big news is that funding has been secured for a second year due to State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik securing a commitment from the state. Jen Woods and Wood Ambulance have provided flexible transportation for students and the bill was covered by Jonathan Zlotnik. Active membership has been growing from 65 registered members in January to 81 in February and an additional increase is expected in the March numbers. Unique visitors in January were 35 and 46 in February.

Director Brandon Hughey said the center discovered that structured programs were not the primary draw for local teens. Instead, the presence of community partners and the variety they bring proved more effective for enrichment. This included the Levi Heywood Memorial Library with a mobile library service twice a month, LUK providing daily programming during the February school vacation, focusing on art and “inclusiveness” skills to help students improve social interactions, the Gardner Police Department’s frequent visits to build report and assist with operations, and various community service organizations.
Airport Commission 4-1-26 (4/2/2026)

To view the infographic below with clarity, click the image for a larger view.

Airport Commission Chair Widely Criticized at April 1st Meeting.

Gardner Massachusetts has a full-time Airport Manager in Isabelle Davis and Airport Commission members heavily criticized Airport Commission Chair James Woods for what they felt was not staying in his lane. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Airport Commission 4-1-26

Woods was criticized by a number of members for holding independent discussions with a Jet Club and entertaining their offer of $2000 annually with a free reign of the facility. Objection by members was two-fold: first that the proposal contemplated excessive use of the airport for a small fee and second that the Airport Manager should have been handling interaction with the club, not the Chair of the Commission who they felt was overstepping his authority. Airport Manager Isabelle Davis expressed frustration over the Chairman conducting private site visits with the club without involving the full commission or management.

There is significant internal disagreement regarding the official roster of the Airport Commission with the Airport Manager noting that the City of Gardner website does not list current member names or term expiration dates. Questions were raised regarding whether all sitting members were properly sworn in, as some attendees recalled only 4 members being sworn in at a previous session. Some members also disputed a tie-breaking vote cast by Chair James Woods in February, indicating that the vote cast by Woods might have been illegal. Chair Woods suggested those contesting the result seek clarification from the Mayor’s office. Further contentious discussion ensued when Wood proposed adopting “Robert’s Rules of Order” to limit discussion times – that motion was defeated.

In other matters, the commission voted to raise the price of jet fuel to $6.50 per gallon, even though it was purchased at $4.85 per gallon because replacement cost is now about a dollar higher. Another heated debate occurred regarding the qualifications required for volunteers to operate airport equipment noting that unlicensed operation poses a severe legal risk.
Health Director 4-2-26 (4/2/2026)

Is the Second time a Charm? Lauren Saunders is Director of Public Health in Gardner

Lauren Saunders has been chosen as the Director of Public Health in Gardner. It had come down to two candidates who were interviewed at a March 12^th meeting, Saunders and Assistant Director Angelia DiPrima. Saunders’ previous tenure as Health Director was notable as she led the highly acclaimed Covid 19 response in Gardner, overhauled tattoo regulations, and created the Prevention Coordinator position. In her interview, Saunders strategic priorities were the creation of a multi-agency hoarding task force, professional development for staff, and community outreach. Saunders has also indicated she views the landfill and pump issues as high priority “band-aid” fixes needing permanent solutions.

Gardner Magazine reached out to Health Director Lauren Saunders seeking further comment and offering a platform for important health issues. Saunders responded: “This has been an extremely busy week to say the least. My first day was Tuesday 3/31. I am currently just getting caught up and back into the swing of things over here, but I will definitely keep you posted of any initiatives and things we are working on.”

While we did not see a public announcement from the Board of Health regarding the hiring decision, we did discover Saunders name listed once again on the City of Gardner website. Gardner Magazine notes that both candidates had very strong qualifications as noted in our previous article, CLICK HERE.
Drought Update 4-2-26 (4/2/2026)

Drought is Better, but Fire Danger is Real in Greater Gardner MA.

According to Drought.gov, the number of people in Worcester County affected by drought is down almost 90 percent since last month. However, Worcester County had the 9th driest February on record over the last 132 years. While not currently predicted to be as severe, drought conditions are expected to persist this month and this season. Since open burning season is January 15 to May 1st (still almost a month left) it’s reasonable to be concerned about the fire danger. Our Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the drought and the fire danger in this podcast. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

DEEP DIVE – Drought and Open Burning

For the latest Gardner MA drought conditions from Drought.gov, CLICK HERE. For state regulations on open burning, visit this Mass.gov page, CLICK HERE.
Fire Safety 2026 (4/1/2026)

2026 Fire Safety Grants Announced

The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced that 307 Massachusetts Fire Departments will share $5 million in grant funding to support the purchase of new safety equipment. The following area communities received grants:

Some Departments and award amounts: Town of Ashburnham $12,926.27, Town of Ashby $12,500.00, Town of Athol $13,583.07, Town of Barre $12,397.83, Town of Erving $7,285.04, City of Fitchburg $24,535.68, City of Gardner $19,000.00, City of Greenfield $19,000.00, Town of Hardwick $12,456.92, Town of Hubbardston $12,500.00, City of Leominster $17,566.27, Town of Lunenburg $19,000.00, Town of Oakham $8,162.16, Town of Orange $12,191.09, Town of Phillipston $10,500.00, Town of Princeton $8,779.83, Town of Royalston, $10,499.60, Town of Rutland $15,500.00, Town of Templeton $15,500.00, Town of Warwick $10,500.00, Town of Wendell $8,329.91, Town of Westminster $15,499.00, Town of Winchendon $18,955.25. For the complete Press Release with the complete list, CLICK HERE.

“Massachusetts firefighters answer the call in every corner of our state and our job is to make sure they have what they need to do it safely,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We’re investing in the equipment that protects them on the front lines and strengthening departments in more than 300 communities so they can continue protecting all of us.”

“We rely so heavily on firefighters in our most challenging moments,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This program allows us to show our appreciation for the risks that they take to help us every day by providing them with the equipment they need to stay safe.”

Fire departments across Massachusetts were invited to apply to the Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program, which provides reimbursement on purchases of nearly 100 different types of equipment. Eligible items include hoses and nozzles, turnout gear, ballistic protective equipment, portable and mobile radios, thermal imaging cameras, hand tools and extrication equipment, hazardous gas meters, and more. In many cases, the purchase of this equipment will help departments attain compliance with Occupational Safety & Health Administration or National Fire Protection Association safety standards.

“Firefighters face immediate danger at fires, structural collapses, hazmat incidents, and countless other calls,” said Secretary of Public Safety & Security Gina Kwon. “They also face the insidious threat of occupational cancer from exposure to toxic gases and substances. The Firefighter Safety Equipment Grants support equipment to protect them from all these risks.”

“The Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program funds the tools, gear, and equipment that our firefighters use to protect themselves, each other, and the residents of their communities,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “It’s a smart investment in safety for the fire service and the Commonwealth.”

The Department of Fire Services helps keep communities safe. We provide firefighter training, fire investigation, fire code development and enforcement, hazardous materials response, special operations support, and fire safety education.
What’s Coming Up in April 2026 (4/1/2026)

For details of items on the infographic below, visit one of the individual communities by clicking on a link.

19 Communities – 19 Articles – Many Events and Meetings – FULL COVERAGE

Gardner Magazine has gone all out to provide you with complete coverage on what’s coming up for April 2026 in each of the 19 communities we cover on this site. Just navigate to the community of your choice for a particular article. We also have a “Deep Dive” podcast and an infographic for your review.

ASHBURNHAM – ASHBY – ATHOL – BARRE – GARDNER – HARDWICK – HUBBARDSTON – NEW SALEM – OAKHAM – ORANGE – PETERSHAM – PHILLIPSTON – PRINCETON – ROYALSTON – RUTLAND – TEMPLETON – WARWICK – WESTMINSTER – WINCHENDON

View a combined report, CLICK HERE.

Listen to a comprehensive “Deep Dive” podcast with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady covering all the April goings on. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Finance Committee 3-31-26 (4/1/2026)

Performance Updates, Infrastructure Grants, and Budget Focus of Finance Committee

The Gardner Finance Committee met on March 31, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Finance Committee 3-31-26

The Finance Committee meeting held on March 31, 2026, focused on departmental performance updates, the management of major infrastructure grants, and upcoming budgetary transitions. Key financial indicators show a stable collection rate for real estate and personal property taxes, both hovering between 75% and 79% as the fourth quarter approaches. A significant portion of the meeting addressed a substantial cost discrepancy in the Rear Main Street project, where National Grid back charges reached approximately $922,000—well above the initial $260,000 estimate. The committee also reviewed a move toward centralizing facilities management across city and school buildings and addressed internal accounting corrections, including a $15,000 budget transfer error and a $85,138 deficit in the snow and ice account.
Appointments 3-31-26 (4/1/2026)

Candidate Interviews and Administrative Improvements Focus of Appointments Committee Meeting.

The Gardner Appointments Committee met on March 31, 2026. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

Appointments Committee 3-31-26

The committee interviewed candidates for the Council on Aging and the Bandstand Committee, focusing on their professional backgrounds, volunteer history, and commitment to the city’s seniors. Beyond individual confirmations, the members engaged in a broader dialog regarding administrative improvements, such as clarifying term expiration dates and ensuring appointees officially take their oaths. There was a significant proposal to streamline the process by requiring a written statement of interest from nominees to avoid scheduling delays. The session concluded with a review of the upcoming meeting calendar and a commitment to maintaining accountability within the city’s appointment system.
Expanding News (3/31/2026)

Gardner Magazine Expands News Coverage

Gardner Magazine has been adding to our traditional News Around Greater Gardner MA to give you enhanced coverage of the region, state, and world around you.

Added sections: Gardner Magazine has added sections for North Central MA News, Massachusetts Weekly News Roundup, National News Weekly Report, and World News This Week. Jump to the section on this page with the following bookmarks – JUST CLICK – North Central MA News — State News of the Week —- National News of the Week — World News of the Week Gardner Magazine also features the latest article of each of these news categories in the right hand column of the website

Integral sections: Gardner Magazine aggregates various types of articles into separate pages for your convenience. Top 50 Interviews – Original Songs – –City Council – School Committee – DEEP DIVE podcasts – Editorial and Commentary – FOCUS on Non-Profits — In-depth Gardner MAgazine Reports: featuring regional, state, and national reports. Hotline Radio Shows

We’d love to cover your non-profit, organization, or school group. Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com or call our voicemail line at (978) 632-6324.

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