Still More Greater Gardner MA Local News
News Around Greater Gardner MA (next 120 stories)
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- Assessors 1-22-26 (1/29/2026)
Another Exciting Board of Assessors Meeting
The Gardner Board of Assessors met on January 22, 2026. After addressing a delayed start due to technical issues, the two present members approved the previous month’s minutes and proceeded to reorganize their leadership. They successfully nominated and voted for an absent colleague, Charles Leblanc, to serve as the new chairperson for the calendar year. The discussion also touched upon administrative tasks, specifically the upcoming February deadline for property tax abatement applications. Finally, the board concluded the public portion of the gathering by voting to enter an executive session for confidential legal matters. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Board of Assessors 1-22-26
- Fire Gardner 1-29 (1/29/2026)
Fire at 123 Grow Child Center – Daycare in Gardner
The Gardner Fire Department responded to a fire this morning at the 123 Grow Child CenterDaycare at 838 West Broadway in Gardner MA. As shown in the photograph as of 8am, the location was ablaze and required a 2nd alarm.
Over 100 concerned residents and parents reached out on Facebook to express their concerns about the fire and love of the Daycare center.
Gardner Magazine will provide more details as they become available. The photo in our graphic shows the fire underway.
The fire is out. The building is heavily damaged and an employee of the City confirmed 2 things: The building is a total loss and there were no injuries of personnel or children. However, two Gardner Firefighters had minor injuries, but did not require transport to the hospital. We took the photos below about noon on January 29th:
Press Release from Gardner Fire Department:
PRESS RELEASE : On January 29, 2026, at 04:45 hours the Gardner Dispatch Center received multiple 911 calls reporting a building fire on West Broadway in the vicinity of the intersection with Airport Road. First arriving Fire Department units reported heavy fire in the rear attic area of a one story structure and struck a Second Alarm, bring recalled off-duty Gardner Firefighters and multiple mutual aid units to the scene. Firefighters initiated an interior attack, but heavy fire conditions forced them to exit the building and switch to a defensive exterior operation. Firefighters were hampered by extreme cold temperatures and deep snow conditions which caused equipment to freeze and ice to quickly form around the scene.
The address of the involved building is 838 West Broadway, occupied by the 1-2-3 Grow Child Care Center. The building was unoccupied at the time of the fire and is considered a total loss.
Mutual aid responded to the scene from the Towns of Westminster, Winchendon, Ashburnham, Hubbardston, and Templeton. Station coverage in Gardner was provided by the Athol, Fitchburg, and Leominster Fire Departments. Two Gardner Firefighters suffered minor injuries that did not require transport to the hospital.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Fire District 8 Fire Investigation Unit and the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Gregory F. Lagoy – Fire Chief
- Weight Loss (1/28/2026)
Weight Loss Drugs – Gardner Magazine Special Report
Gardner Magazine went all out to collect all the facts from many sources to compile 5 different reports focusing on all aspects of the GLP-1 Revolution.
40% of U.S. adults are obese. Willpower alone is usually not enough and the weight loss drugs are making an impact in helping people lose weight.
Our dedicated Weight Loss Drugs Special Report page, CLICK HERE features 5 separate reports on various aspects, information-rich infographics, a “Deep Dive”, a “Debate”, and an explainer video on 5 Surprising Truths about Weight loss Drugs.
Is there a topic you’d like to see Gardner Magazine feature in a future special report? Let us know and we’ll do our best to tackle the task. Email: News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324.
Gardner Magazine Special Report, Weight Loss Drugs, CLICK HERE for the complete page.
- Boiler Issue Continues (1/27/2026)
Boiler Issue Keeps City Hall Closed Another Day – Tractors Deployed – Workers Thanked
From the City of Gardner: “Due to maintenance issues with the boiler at City Hall, City Hall will be closed on Wednesday, January 28th, 2026. All other City buildings will be open as normal.”
Gardner Mayor Nicholson also posted: “The DPW will be sending out 5 sidewalk tractors this evening to work to clear the sidewalks within a mile and a half around the schools in the City. Once these sidewalks are done, plans will be made for the other sidewalks around the city and the snow around the downtown and South Gardner Center at a later date.” Relating to the storm in the City, the Mayor stated, “Thank you to all of our DPW Workers, public safety personnel, National Grid crews, and everyone who worked to keep everyone safe during the storm. Our DPW crews were called in at 9am on Sunday and finally got to go home at 3am this morning- 42 hours later, with some staying until noon to check on all of the equipment. Gardner is blessed to have such a dedicated crew with such a strong work ethic and commitment to the City and its residents.”
- Cancer Progress Report (1/27/2026)
Complete page with a “Deep Dive”, “Debate”, multiple infographics, 5 reports, and 4 videos .CLICK FOR THE PAGE, CLICK HERE.
Why you should support the “Greater Gardner Relay For Life” – a Gardner Magazine Report on the Fight Against Cancer.
Over the last 15 years, there has been historic progress in the fight against the deadly disease of Cancer with survivorship surging to record highs and groundbreaking new treatments and breakthroughs. However, due to cuts in Federal budget allocations, cancer research faces a funding crisis. Therefore, it is more important than ever to support the Greater Gardner Relay For Life by joining a team or making a donation. For the website, CLICK HERE.
The American Cancer Society released a report on the Fight Against Cancer. Here is the report on PDF, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine has a complete page with a “Deep Dive”, “Debate”, multiple infographics, 5 reports, and 4 videos. CLICK FOR THE PAGE, CLICK HERE.
Here is the “Deep Dive” with the Chairman and the Chair Lady. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY
DEEP DIVE – Fight Against Cancer
- Influenza Risk – High (1/27/2026)
Massachusetts Department of Public Health Says Influenza Risk is High
During the 2020-21 season, the weekly ILI (Influenza-like-illness) was minimal. Numbers have increased during subsequent seasons with the period of January through March of last year show very high occurrences. This year, 2026, the higher incidence of ILI is beginning earlier. For detailed and the latest information, please refer to the Influenza Dashboard, CLICK HERE.
The current estimated Influenza like illness activity is VERY HIGH.
The current estimated severity of influenza is MODERATE.
Our graphic shows how there was minimal influenza in the summer and fall but increasing activity in recent weeks.
Ask your physician how you can protect yourself from influenza and other respiratory illnesses.
- Toxins in Food Supply (1/27/2026)
Gardner Magazine Special Report: Toxins in the Food Supply
Gardner Magazine undertook this project after the State of Florida came out with some startling data about the dangers of Baby Formula and the toxic arsenic found in candy consumed by children. We took it further and incorporated more than a dozen sources regarding toxins in everyday foods. Visit the complete page with 4 different reports here, CLICK for Page.
Reports incorporated in our special page include: 5 Surprising Toxins Hiding in Your Everyday Foods, Investigative Report: Contaminants in Infant Formula and Confectionery Products, Nature’s Armor: A Beginner’s Guide to Natural Toxins in Food, and Understanding and Mitigating Toxin Exposure in Common Foods. Also on the page – a Short 6 minute explainer video on the subject.
Gardner Magazine also has a “Deep Dive” explaining it all and a “Debate” on the issues involved. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Toxins in the Food Supply DEBATE – Toxins in the Food Supply
- School Closings and Delays Tuesday, January 27, 2026 (1/27/2026)
In addition to the School Closings and Delays for Tuesday, January 27, 2026 we have this announcement from Gardner City Hall: “Due to a mechanical boiler issue at City Hall, Gardner City Hall will be closed on Tuesday, January 27th, 2026. All other city properties will be operating as usual.”
Closings and Delays – Gardner Was a Delay, Now Closed
Closings and Delays for Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
Closed: Athol-Royalston, Fitchburg, Fitchburg State University, Gardner, Mount Wachusett Community College, Quabbin Regional, Wachusett Regional,
2 Hour Delay: Ashburnham – Westminster, Barre Senior Center, Leominster, Lunenburg, Monty-Tech, Narragansett Regional, Winchendon
Originally, Gardner had a 2 hour delay: Superintendent Mark Pellegrino put out this statement to parents and kids: “Good morning, Gardner Public School families. This is Mark Pellegrino, your superintendent. Unfortunately, Gardner Public Schools will need to be closed today, January 27th, Snow plowing has become increasingly difficult as we search for spots to place the snow. My maintenance director says plowing is like a white out game of Tetris. Kids, Tetris is an ancient computer game, created way back in the 1900’s. I’m sure you can find it online. It’s still a lot of fun and research even says that improves brain function and you know what? I digress. The important message is that there is no school today, January 27th, the Gardner Public Schools, So maybe go out and help shovel and then go sledding this afternoon. Thanks for your attention. Stay safe“
- Storm Update 1-26-26 7pm (1/26/2026)
Storm Update Statement from Mayor Nicholson January 26, 2026 at 7pm
The second round of the storm is here! We’ve had about 18 inches of snow so far with more on the way tonight. Here’s another long information post.
Gardner Public Schools will have a 2-hr delay tomorrow. (Jan 27)
The on-street parking ban is still in effect and has been extended to 7am on Jan 27. There will be a municipal parking lot ban after parking is allowed on the streets again, from 7am to 10am, so the plows can fully clear the municipal lots. Please keep these bans in mind and don’t get a ticket/towed.
DPW crews and contractors are still out plowing. Please give plows the space they need to be safe while clearing the streets so we can be safe too. During my ride-along yesterday, I was surprised how many people drove around to pass the plows. This isnt safe for the plow crews, and the road infront of them isn’t plowed yet and not as safe to drive on as it is behind them. Please be patient. They have been working since before 9am yesterday. Thank you to the DPW crews for their dedication to the City!
All areas of the City that had power outages yesterday have had power restored. Thank you to the linemen from National Grid for the repairs made to the transformers in the Washington Hills Neighborhood the storm.
The Gardner Fire Department put out a request for residents to help clear fire hydrants around the city to make sure we are prepared should any emergency situations arise.
I’ve signed an Executive Order suspending the parking meters from now through February 6. The City Code has an ordinance that states that the owners of the downtown buildings are responsible for clearing the snow on the sidewalks in front of their buildings with a path that allows for pedestrian travel. The snow banks are very high- with some meters fully buried. The DPW’s first priority is to clear the streets and then the sidewalks within 1.5 miles of the schools, per state and local regulations. In order to clear the banks on the sidewalks, the plowing equipment has to be taken off the front-end loaders and the salting devices taken out of the dump trucks, so that the snow on the sidewalks can be hauled away. This process can take 1-2 days to do. To make sure this doesn’t cause delays with plowing operations, this is usually done when we know there isn’t another storm coming that would need plowing/salting. We are working to schedule a day to cut down the snow banks in the downtown and South Gardner center, but until that day is scheduled, parking downtown will be meter free. The 3-hour parking limit is still in effect.
Once again, thank you to the Gardner DPW, our Public Safety Personnel, National Grid crews, and everyone else who’s worked over the last day and a half through the storm to keep us all safe.
Thank you also to Governor Maura Healey & Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll for calling to check in on how things were going here during the storm.
- Human Trafficking (1/26/2026)
Gardner Magazine Reports: Human Trafficking
The U.S. Justice Department has released a report on the decade between 2013 and 2023 showing an increase in prosecutions for crimes relating to commercial sex acts and involuntary servitude. Here is the official report from the U.S. Department of Justice on PDF, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine has prepared a complete page on the issue, covering it from various aspects. For the complete page, CLICK HERE.
The Chair Man and the Chair Lady have a “Deep Dive” explaining it all. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Human Trafficking Max and Maxine Rogers argue over whether the numbers represent a genuine escalating crisis. Max takes the position that the numbers represent a genuine escalating crisis. Maxine Rogers takes the position that we need a correction in how we count with her opinion based on legislation from 2015. They also discuss the open border during the Biden Administration. Max argues the open border is responsible, Maxine argues data doesn’t prove that. It is an interesting debate. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEBATE – Human Trafficking
- Parking Ban Extended 1-26-26 (1/26/2026)
From Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson: “Good Afternoon, Following consultation with the Department of Public Works on the status of snow removal in the City and the predicted inclement weather for the remainder of the day, the current on-street parking ban is being extended to 7am tomorrow morning, Tuesday, January 27th, 2026. The original expiration time prior to this extension was 3:00pm. Per the City’s ordinance code, there will be a municipal parking lot parking ban from 7am to 10am tomorrow, Tuesday, January 27th, 2026. Thank you, Mike Nicholson “
- Area Digging Out (1/26/2026)
Storm Dumps Over a Foot of Snow – Greater Gardner MA Digging Out
Area Schools are Closed. City Hall is closed. Other town offices are closed. Some Businesses are closed, waiting until tomorrow to reopen. The Greater Gardner area is digging out from over a foot of snow. There is still a Winter Storm Warning in effect and the possibility of a few more inches falling before tonight
As of noon on January 26, 2026, there were 37 active power outages affecting 954 customers in Massachusetts. 3 minutes later that was down to 428 customers. The largest outage affecting over 2000 customers just North of Attleboro, MA has apparently been resolved. A power outage in Gardner due to a car hitting a pole was resolved yesterday within a couple of hours.
As of noon on January 26th, about 800,000 customers were still without power in other states, many hit hard with ice which took down trees and power wires.
- Statement 1-25-26 9pm (1/25/2026)
Statement from Michael Nicholson 9:07pm January 25, 2026 – The Mayor speaks about the storm . Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
- Statement 1-25-26 (1/25/2026)
Statement from Michael Nicholson 4:30pm January 25, 2026 – The Mayor speaks about the storm and about a power outage on a Gardner street. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson 1-25-26
- The Storm – Info from the Mayor (1/25/2026)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson provides information relating to the Storm
Here is the Mayor’s statement from just before noon on Sunday January 25, 2026 – Note that while the Mayor describes a possible 4 inch per hour rate, the National Weather Service official prediction is for ½ inch per hour. If in fact we do get 4 inches per hour, we will significantly exceed predictions.
Statement from Mayor Michael Nicholson: “It’s started snowing in Gardner. This is a long post with a lot of information.
We’re predicted to get a lot of snow. Please check in on your neighbors and loved ones as the storm continues. Every year in Gardner we get on average 30-40 9-1-1 calls from people having medical emergencies due to over-exertion from shoveling snow- everything from sprains and falls to heart attacks and embolisms. Some have been fatal. If you’re feeling tired, take a break. If the snow looks too much, call someone for help.
The Gardner Police Department community room has been activated as a warming center. There is an on-street parking ban in effect.
DPW crews are already out salting and pre-treating the streets. They’ve been in since early this morning preparing the equipment, loading the trucks with salt, and getting ready for the storm.
Gardner has just over 100 miles of road. We currently have around 2,000+/- tons of salt on hand in our salt shed. It takes around 100 tons of salt to do one salting round through the whole City.
Have have around 30 pieces of plowing equipment ready to be deployed when plowing begins. These vary from larger dump trucks, pick up trucks, and frontend loaders for the narrower/steeper streets.
These trucks are divided up into 25 different routes around the city that they continue to circle through during the storm. On average it takes about 3 hours from beginning to end of that route. So if you see a plow go by your house, it’ll likely be 3 hours before you see it go by again on their assigned route.
Some predictions have this storm having snow at a rate of 4 inches per hour. That means that there could be around 8-12 inches of snow accumulated on the street before the plow has a chance to get there. Please be patient and try to avoid all unnecessary travel when possible. Stay safe.
Lastly- a HUGE thank you to our DPW crews and plow contractors who have already been in for a while and who have a long day/night ahead of them, and to our public safety personnel working today. We have a great, dedicated team in Gardner who do a lot of work to keep us safe.”
UPDATE 1-25-26 12:40pm – Gardner Public Schools just announced that there will be NO SCHOOL in Gardner on Monday, January 26th. We expect the same announcement from all of the area schools due to the obvious bad weather. For a list of closings statewide here is a good resource: CLICK HERE
- Latest Storm Maps (1/25/2026)
Up to 2 feet of snow is expected in the Greater Gardner area. CLICK any of the images for a larger view.
National Weather Service Predicts Lots of Snow for Most of Massachusetts
This map was updated just after 9am on Sunday, January 25, 2026 and asserts that the Greater Gardner area could get up to 2 feet of snow.
The predicted Snow Rate is about 1/2 inch per hour overall, with areas to the south getting higher rates.
NWS has narrowed its snowfall total predictions with even the low range being around a foot, while being reasonably confident totals will be closer to the 2 foot mark. In 2 days, we can get our the yardstick and measure what we have received.
A week from now, the Greater Gardner MA area is still expected to be colder than normal
While a large amount of snow can be dangerous, Massachusetts is being spared the devastating impact being felt in some U.S. States who are dealing with power outages due to icy conditions taking down trees and power lines. However, stay home, ride it out and be safe.
- The Snowfall – original song (1/24/2026)
Gardner Magazine releases a Goofy Winter Tune called “The Snowfall”
This comedic funk goofy tune will either make you smile, wince, or say, “yuk” but it is very fun. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Comedy Funk – The Snowfall From the song: “I didn’t know it was going to happen, Didn’t know it was a special occasion, It didn’t take much of Mother Nature’s persuasion, It happened for pretty much no real reason. … It was a snowfall, It was a snowstorm, Mother Nature gave it her all, Snow came down like a white wall, It was a snowfall…(A snowfall!)”
Note: No extra charge for the complete goofiness of the song.
- The Audit Dispute (1/24/2026)
Gardner Magazine has a complete page on the Massachusetts Audit dispute with various narratives, infographics, a “Deep Dive”, and a “Debate”. For the complete report and page, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine Report, “Deep Dive” and “Debate” – The Audit – A Massachusetts Standoff
Gardner Magazine has a complete page on the Massachusetts Audit dispute with various narratives, infographics, a “Deep Dive”, and a “Debate”. For the complete report and page, CLICK HERE.
Listen to a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady explaining it all on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Massachusetts Audit Listen to a “DEBATE” between Maxine Rogers and Max Rogers. Maxine argues that transparency is the absolute bedrock of democracy and the will of the voters should be honored. Max argues that the will of the voters doesn’t automatically override the constitution and that the resistance to the Audit is legally sound. An interesting discussion on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEBATE – Massachusetts Audit – Max and Maxine Rogers Publisher’s Note: WGAW Hotline Radio Host Steve Wendell interviewed the Massachusetts State Auditor on the program Saturday, January 24, 2026. For the article and AUDIO of the show so you can hear that interview, CLICK HERE.
- Mobile vs Desktop (1/24/2026)
Gardner Magazine Report: Mobile vs. Desktop – Internet Usage
Our report is extensive and comprises 4 separate reports on a separate page, CLICK HERE.
Our own Gardner Magazine internal data shows an approximately even split between Mobile phones vs. Desktop Computers when it comes to visitors accessing the site. And that fact is true when it comes to the United States with the desktop slightly ahead of mobile and desktop users spending almost 40 percent more time in a given session. The various reports will give you extensive information on internet usage throughout the world.
On our dedicated page there are also 2 “Deep Dive” podcasts explaining it all (one brief, one long) and a “DEBATE” podcast on the subject.
The Reports on the page Include the following: Mobile vs. Desktop Internet Usage: A 2026 Market Research Report for Marketing and Product Teams —- Beyond the Screen: 5 Surprising Truths Shaping Our Digital Lives —- Phones vs. Computers: Your Simple Guide to Using the Internet —- Understanding the Digital Divide: Who’s Online in the U.S. and Who’s Left Behind?
- Hotline 1-24-26 (1/24/2026)
Hotline Demonstrates “The Art of Radio” on 4th Show of January 2026
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hotline Radio 1-24-26 Hotline Host Steve Wendell Lit up the radio with his commentary and interview style showcasing “The Art of Radio” on Saturday, January 26, 2026. On this date, the program featured information on the upcoming storm, a commentary on the Gardner PD with Werner Poegel, and interviews with Diana DiZoglio, State Auditor, and Emergency Management Director Paul Topolski, plus highlights of the State of the Commonwealth.
First up on Hotline Radio: Steve Wendell spoke about the upcoming snowstorm expected for Sunday, January 24th and Monday, January 25th. —-Werner Poegel Commentary on the Gardner Police Department on living its motto and mission statement. —- The comedic Cats and Dogs Theme from the Presidential campaign. —- Host Steve Wendell Interviews Diana DiZoglio – Massachusetts Auditor . Here is a link to the website for the MA State Auditor, CLICK HERE.
— An Interview with Gardner Emergency Management Director Paul Topolski regarding the upcoming storm and many other related safety topics including: parking bans, codeRed, generators, safe installation of wood stoves including proper ventilation, Meals Ready to Eat, Clothing, Medications, Having Water on hand, and use of Amateur Radio. —– —-Highlights Governor Healey – State of the Commonwealth –
- Storm Coverage 1-24-26 (1/24/2026)
Greater Gardner MA in the 12 inch Plus Range for Snow
The National Weather Service says it has High Confidence that snow will begin between 9am and 3pm on Sunday with the heaviest snow occurring between 3pm Sunday and 1am Monday. In addition, light to moderate snow is likely to occur much of Monday. Travel will obviously be difficult and we can almost assume that all area schools will be closed on Monday. As far as confidence in the actual amount of snow, NWS lists that as Medium overall, but HIGH CONFIDENCE that in this area we will get a total of a foot or more of the white stuff.
Low temperatures will also be an issue with actual temperatures in the single digits Saturday and Sunday with wind chill factors below zero. High temperatures from Monday through Friday of next week are only expected to be in the teens, rising to slightly above 20 degrees by Saturday and maybe close to 30 degrees by about a week from now. Bottom Line: Highly dangerous travel conditions and dangerous cold. Silver lining: Because we are getting snow and not ICE like some areas down South, power outages are less likely for this region.
Warming Shelters: The Community Room at the Gardner Police Station is available from 10am to 6pm on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Check with your community for specific plans at your location.
- Westminster – South St. Sentinel February 2026 (1/23/2026)
Westminster MA – February 2026
The Westminster South Street Sentinel, 25th Edition, covers current and future happenings in the Town of Westminster. For the complete document on PDF, CLICK HERE.
Deep Dive with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady explaining what’s covered in the 25th edition of the Westminster South Street Sentinel. Listen on any device.
DEEP DIVE – Westminster South Street Sentinel – February 2026 Debate with Max and Maxine Rogers: Can vibrant community spirit compensate for aging infrastructure? A Model of Modern Resilience and Growth or is it celebrating on a fragile foundation? So who wins the argument? A very interesting discussion. Listen on any device.
DEBATE – Westminster South Street Sentinel – February 2026
- This Week 1-23-26 (1/23/2026)
This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” covering Gardner for Friday, January 23, 2026
Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 1-23-26 In this week’s edition: Zoning Board of Appeals, City Council Auditor Search, Greater Gardner Relay for Life, Cold and Snow in upcoming storm, Gardner MA Municipal Telephone Guide, Gardner PD Mission Statement, Commodore as Monty Tech Representative, Gardner City Council, Major Drug Bust, MA Property Tax Bills, Open Burning Season, HUGE Gardner Magazine History Project, Original Song – Waiting for the Storm, Upcoming Meetings
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- ZBA 1-21-26 (1/23/2026)
ZBA Grants One Final Appeal for 69 Oak Street Application
Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
At the January 21, 2026 meeting, the Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals discussed a pending application from Nanda Patel regarding the rehabilitation of a vacant three-family home on Oak Street. The applicant requested a continuance due to a family emergency and potential international travel, despite failing to submit required parking plans or pay $300 in extension fees.Board members expressed concern over the lack of progress and unpaid balances but ultimately decided to grant one final extension until the March meeting. This grace period is strictly conditioned on the applicant settling all debts and filing the necessary paperwork at least one week before the scheduled hearing. Should the applicant fail to meet these requirements, the board intends to render a final decision based on the limited information currently available. The session concluded with a brief update from a member participating remotely from Florida.
- Waiting for the Storm – original song (1/22/2026)
Gardner Magazine releases an original song: “Waiting for the Storm”
This Blues-Funk original song was fun to write and fun to render. There’s an abundance of cool melody. We think you’ll enjoy it. There’s the regular and extended version of the tune. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
BLUES-FUNK – Waiting for the Storm BLUES-FUNK – Waiting for the Storm (Extended version) From the song: “I’m waiting, waiting for the storm, This one, this one, won’t be the norm, It’ll be super cold like the dickens, So take in the cows and all the chickens. … I’m waiting, waiting for the storm, This one, this one, will bring lots of snow, So stay home, stay home, there’s nowhere to go. This one, this one, won’t be the norm.”
- Parking Ban 1-24 to 1-26 (1/22/2026)
From the City of Gardner: Due to the predicted heavy snowfall for this weekend, there will be an on street parking ban from Sat., Jan. 24th @10pm to Mon., Jan. 26th @3pm. Public parking lot ban Monday from 3pm – 6pm
- Auditor Search 1-21-26 (1/22/2026)
Auditor Search Committee Discusses Candidates by Number and Develops Shortlist
The Gardner City Auditor Search Committee met on January 21, 2026. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Auditor Search Committee 1-21-26 The search committee met to evaluate resumes and establish a shortlist of candidates for interviews. Members identified 6 specific applicants, designated by numeric codes, who demonstrated the necessary educational backgrounds and professional history in financial management and auditing.
The discussion highlighted a preference for candidates with fraud detection skills and leadership experience, though the committee expressed concerns regarding some applicants’ frequent job changes and current geographic locations. To ensure a productive interview stage, the group decided to verify the candidates’ willingness to work in-person and their acceptance of the established salary range.
Next Steps: The meeting concluded with a plan to refine a list of ten interview questions and finalize the procedural steps for making a formal recommendation to the city council.
- Relay for Life 2026 (1/22/2026)
Greater Gardner Relay for Life Fundraising is Underway
While the Greater Gardner Relay for Life main event is not until Friday June 12th, the fundraising is already underway. As of January 22nd, $10,663.33 has been raised out of the $170,000 goal. It is 141 days until the event. Right now, the Greater Gardner Relay for Life is looking for sponsors and is looking for teams and for individuals to join teams. Website, CLICK HERE
On the website, CLICK HERE, there is this statement: “Every Dollar Makes a Difference. At Relay For Life no donation is too small, each and every dollar counts. Your donations help fund groundbreaking cancer research, patient care programs, and can make a difference in communities like ours. With every donation, you are helping the American Cancer Society save lives.”Right underneath that statement, there is a secure donation button.
On the website, CLICK HERE, there is a Team Captain Guide and a Participant Guide. You can download an app for your phone so you can fundraise anytime, anywhere. And you can dedicate a Luminaria to a loved one lost, someone currently battling, or anyone who has overcome cancer.
- Upcoming Storm (1/22/2026)
Storm Uncertainty: The amount of snow predicted in this storm varies widely with meteorologists stating that the track of the storm is uncertain. Predictions range from a few inches to more than a foot.
Keep up to date with weather via the Greater Gardner Weather Center on GardnerMagazine.com, listening to WGAW AM 1340 or 98.1 FM, and/or viewing your local television station. If you haven’t already, sign up for codeRed on the City of Gardner website so you get any alerts put out by the City.
Certain COLD Temperatures and Possible Heavy Snow in the Weather Forecast for Greater Gardner MA
Thursday January 22nd: Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 15. West wind around 9 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Friday, January 23rd: Mostly sunny, with a high near 25. West wind 8 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around -3. Wind chill values as low as -21. West wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.
Saturday, January 24th: Sunny and cold, with a high near 9. Northwest wind 9 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.
Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around -2. Northwest wind around 6 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Sunday, January 25th: Snow, mainly after 7am. The snow could be heavy at times. High near 12. Calm wind becoming northeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Sunday Night: Snow. The snow could be heavy at times. Low around 6. Northeast wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Monday, January 26th: Snow likely, mainly before 11am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 18. North wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Monday Night: A chance of snow before 9pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 1. West wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Tuesday, January 27th: Mostly sunny, with a high near 18. West wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.
Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 4. West wind around 8 mph.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 21. West wind 6 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
- Salt Shortage – Templeton (1/22/2026)
Town of Templeton Plans to Salt Roads After Storm is over on Monday due to Salt Shortage
Due to a shortage of road salt, the Town of Templeton has announced that it will salt the roads on Monday after the storm ends. Here is the Press Release from the Town of Templeton: “We have been notified by our road salt vendor of a regional shortage of road salt due to salt vessels stuck out at sea in storms. Templeton has several loads ordered but will not receive anymore deliveries until mid of next week.
The Town’s ability to fully treat all roadways is limited at this time. With inclement weather continuing through the weekend, residents are urged to use extreme caution when traveling. Road conditions may be icy and slippery, particularly on untreated side streets, hills, bridges, and shaded areas. Please slow down, allow extra travel time, and avoid unnecessary travel if possible. Pedestrians are also reminded to use caution on sidewalks and walkways. (Please be safe)
DPW crews will continue to monitor conditions and prioritize main roads, emergency routes, and public safety areas as resources allow. We appreciate residents’ patience and cooperation as we work through this temporary supply issue. Templeton DPW plans are as follows: pretreatment will be to use brine if road conditions cooperate.
Once we get plowable snow, trucks will be plowing throughout the storm. We have enough road salt to treat the town twice which will be after the storm is over on Monday. Thank You for your patience and understanding.”
UPDATE 1-23-26 11:18am – Town of Winchendon has similar issue. Here is the post from the Town of Winchendon:
“Due to a regional shortage of road salt deliveries, the Town’s ability to fully treat all roadways is limited at this time. With inclement weather expected tonight and continuing through the weekend, residents are urged to use extreme caution when traveling.
Road conditions may be icy and slippery, particularly on untreated side streets, hills, bridges, and shaded areas. Please slow down, allow extra travel time, and avoid unnecessary travel if possible. Pedestrians are also reminded to use caution on sidewalks and walkways.
DPW crews will continue to monitor conditions and prioritize main roads, emergency routes, and public safety areas as resources allow. We appreciate residents’ patience and cooperation as we work through this temporary supply issue.”
- Phone Guide – Gardner (1/21/2026)
Gardner MA Municipal Phone Directory, with printable versions right here.
Gardner MA Telephone Guide
Gardner Magazine has put together a convenient, printable guide for reaching Gardner City Departments. CLICK on the image for a larger view or access the document on this Gardner page, CLICK HERE. There are 2 printable versions below, either landscape or portrait orientation. They print well in color or black and white.
Download Printable Landscape Orientation Directory, CLICK HERE
Download Printable Portrait Orientation Directory, CLICK HERE.
- Gardner PD Mission (1/21/2026)
Editorial – 3 Powerful Lessons Hidden in the Gardner PD Mission Statement
Listen to the Editorial Commentary by Gardner Magazine Werner Poegel on any device, CLICK PLAY.
There is a powerful meaning behind the Gardner PD’s mission statement “With Pride and Integrity”. It was a standard set over 20 years ago and written by one of their own former officers. However, with the huge effort put in over the last several years, the result has been an over 40 percent reduction in crime.
Pride isn’t just about enforcement – it’s about education and comfort. The Gardner PD serves each day to protect all from harm from the endless angles of evil. Integrity is a teachable skill defined by fairness and is a core professional competency instilled in officer from day one of the police academy. And the ultimate mission is partnership. The community outreach of the Gardner PD has been nothing sort of exceptional. It’s incredibly wonderful that there are so many ways in which the City of Gardner shines. And the Gardner PD is just one example of a great group of people.
- Joint Convention 1-20-26 (1/21/2026)
Joint Convention Chooses Commodore as Monty Tech Representative
The Gardner City Council and Gardner School Committee met together on January 20, 2026 for the purpose of selecting a local resident to represent the City of Gardner on the Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School District. The primary objective of the meeting was to select a local resident to represent the city on the Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School District Committee. Listen to the short meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Joint Convention 1-20-26 Following a formal roll call and the reading of legal notices, Eric Commodore was the sole individual nominated for the four-year position. The legislative body conducted a unanimous vote, resulting in thirteen members choosing Commodore to fill the vacancy. Upon his selection, the appointee was immediately administered the oath of office to begin his service to the vocational school district.
- Council 1-20-26 (1/21/2026)
Procedures – Appointments – Committees Topics of Gardner City Council Meeting.
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
The Gardner City Council met on January 20, 2026. The most significant actions involved a comprehensive overhaul of the council’s internal operating rules, a contentious debate regarding the term length for the City Solicitor, the rejection of a mayoral proposal to declare a municipal lot as surplus, and the formal acceptance of a state grant for park renovations.
Procedural Reform: The Council adopted a significant amendment to its rules, establishing a new “two-meeting” requirement for items before standing committees. This measure is intended to prevent rushed decisions, ensure materials are complete and accurate before reaching the full council, and allow for greater public and councilor review.
Mayoral Appointment Scrutiny: The Mayor’s appointment of a City Solicitor for a three-year term drew criticism from councilors who argued the term should be limited to one year to align with mayoral terms. A motion to amend the city ordinance to this effect is planned for a future meeting.
Preservation of City Assets: The Council followed the Finance Committee’s recommendation to take no action on declaring a municipal parking lot on West Lynde Street as surplus property. The committee cited the lot’s strategic value for downtown development as a primary reason for its preservation.
Community Development Funding: The Council unanimously passed a resolution to accept a $252,000 state grant from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. These funds are designated for the reconstruction of playground equipment at Ovila Case Playground.
Administrative Deadline Changes: A change to Rule 14 was approved, requiring that all committee reports be submitted to the City Clerk by noon on the Wednesday preceding a regular meeting. This is intended to provide the clerk’s office with an adequate “buffer” to prepare agendas.
Adoption of the “Two-Meeting” Rule Amendment: The most significant change was an amendment proposed by Councilor Heglin to add a new rule (designated as Rule X), which states: “no standing committee or subcommittee of a standing committee or the committee of the council as a whole shall vote to refer any item to the council which has not already appeared on the agenda of that committee at a previous meeting.”
Councilor Heglin’s Arguments: The councilor provided three primary reasons for the amendment:
1. Completeness and Accuracy: To combat a trend of “far too many items that were incomplete, had errors, or had missing information,” establishing a best practice for diligence.
2. Increased Review Time: To provide councilors and the public more time to review materials, given that council positions are not full-time roles, and to encourage city departments to submit items with more lead time.
3. Enhanced Contemplation: To create a “standard stop gap” allowing for more thoughtful deliberation and preventing situations where items are referred back from a full council meeting for further review.
Supporting Councilors: Councilor Kazinskus supported the rule, noting it reinforces the principle that items should be fully vetted in subcommittee first and prevents items from being rushed through in a single committee meeting. He stated, “this makes it known that if you’re going to submit something to a subcommittee it’s going to be on there for at least one agenda before that item is considered.” ◦ Councilor Mack agreed it was a necessary “stop gap measure,” observing that “in the last year there has been an increasing amount of items brought before standing committee meetings and the council that are incomplete, have multiple errors, and have been rushed through.” ◦ Councilor Tassone called the amendment a “common sense best practice” and a “no-brainer.” • Councilor Brooks noted the irony of being asked to vote on the amendment just ten minutes after receiving it. Councilor Kazinskas countered that this is standard procedure for amendments and that the item’s scope—an internal rule—was fundamentally different from a complex city ordinance.
The appointment of Vincent Pusateri to the position of City Solicitor was for a term expiring January 5, 2029. This represents a change from what was described as a historical one-year appointment to a three-year term. Councilor Brooks raised a strong objection to the three-year term, arguing it is “not good in that it will overlap terms of mayors.” Brooks stressed the importance of allowing each new mayor to select their own City Solicitor, citing historical precedents. Councilor Brooks announced his intention to “put forth an amendment to the ordinances to put it back to a one-year appointment” at the next meeting. Councilor Tassone echoed these concerns, stating, “I do agree that the mayor should have the ability to appoint the city solicitor for the term that the mayor is in office.” Tassone found it “odd that we’re you know we’re going a year past the elected term for the mayor.” Mayor Nicholson was called upon to explain the reasoning for the three-year term. He cited Section 3-2 of the ordinance code, which states, “unless otherwise stated the appointment term shall be 3 years.” The Mayor explained that an interpretation of this rule led to the three-year term, as the ordinance for the City Solicitor does not specify a different term length. Mayor Nicholson contrasted this with the Assistant City Solicitor position, for which the ordinance explicitly states the appointment shall be “for no more than one year.”
- Drug Bust 1-20-26 (1/20/2026)
Multiple Law Enforcement Agencies Involved in Major Drug Bust Involving Locations in Gardner and Leominster
The Gardner Police Department announced in a Press Release – COMPLETE PRESS RELEASE CLICK HERE – that two individuals were arrested on January 20, 2026 and charged with trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine as well as other associated charges. $9,900 in cash was seized along with other items associated with drug distribution. Both suspects have been arraigned in Gardner District Court.
Members of the DEA Worcester HIDTA task force, North Worcester County Drug Task Force, and Massachusetts State Police Gang Unit had executed two search warrants simultaneously. Details in Press Release, CLICK HERE.
- Tax Bills FY 26 (1/20/2026)
Gardner Magazine also has a “Deep Dive” on Property taxes in the area and a discussion of MA property tax extremes. Listen on any device.
DEEP DIVE – Fiscal Year 2026 Property Taxes The “DEBATE” on area property taxes with Max and Maxine Rogers is very interesting. Listen on any device, CLICK HERE.
DEBATE – Fiscal Year 2026 Property Taxes
For data from the State of Massachusetts, CLICK HERE. For Massachusetts Law about property taxes, CLICK HERE.A Gardner Magazine Report: Average Property Tax Bills by Community in Massachusetts
For Fiscal Year 2026: In the State of Massachusetts, the lowest average single family property tax bills are in Hancock MA at $835. 2nd lowest is Hancock MA at $1661. 3rd lowest is Florida at $2006. 4th lowest is nearby Erving at $2772. For the complete list sorted from lowest to highest, CLICK HERE for pdf (Data from State of MA) A few towns including Royalston did not have data listed. Most area communities use a single tax rate, meaning the same rate per thousand for all classifications including residential, commercial, industrial, and personal property. The reason: A single tax rate is more welcoming to business and industry.
In the area: Athol is the lowest at $3,924. Gardner comes in at $5,052, slightly lower than the nearby City of Fitchburg and considerably lower than the nearby City of Leominster. Some examples are listed below: Keep in mind that a tax rate by itself does not give you enough information as you must take the combination of the rate per thousand the the average assessed property valuation to arrive at the actual figure. For example, if you had a tax rate of 1 dollar per thousand but each home was worth a trillion dollars, you’d still have a whopper of a tax bill.
In the region: Here are some average Single Family Property Tax Bills sorted lowest to highest: Athol – $3,924, Springfield – $4,254, Templeton – $4,490, Winchendon – $4,720, Phillipston – $4.724, Warwick – $4,795, Hardwick – 4,852, Oakham – $4,888, Orange – $4,910, Hubbardston – $4,947, New Salem – $4.951, Leicester – $5,026, Gardner – $5,052, Barre – $5,053, Fitchburg – $5, 189, Worcester – $5,446, Westminster – $5,992, Clinton – $6,038, Greenfield – $6,063, Ashby – $6,225, Ashburnham – $6,246, Leominster – $6,489, Lunenburg – $7,444, Sterling – $7,535, Boston – $7,627, and of course many higher including the top of the list with Brookline at $26,237 and Weston at $26,313.
- Burning Season 2026 (1/19/2026)
Burning Season is January 15 to May 1st: A Gardner Magazine Guide to the Rules and Safety
Burning Brush in Gardner? Please don’t strike a match without following the rules. In the City of Gardner (and many communities) you can apply for a seasonal permit online. You’ll also need a mandatory site inspection and the permit needs to be activated daily and may be refused if conditions are not safe for burning on any given day. Here’s a complete resident’s guide on PDF, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine also has a “Deep Dive” podcast explaining it all with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Open Burning in Gardner And, a Debate on the issue illuminates why the rules are in place. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEBATE – Open Burning in Gardner 
- The History Project (1/19/2026)
Announcing the Gardner Magazine “History Project”
Gardner Magazine has launched the “History Project” , creating rich HISTORY pages for each of the communities on this website. Each page l contains vast Textual information, Numerous and Informative Infographics, and a “Deep Dive” podcast which explains the history of that particular community.
There’s straight history. There’s lots of facts. There’s interesting stories. It makes history fun. The pages are completed with all 19 towns done as of January 20, 2026. Completed pages include: Ashburnham — Ashby — Athol —, Barre — Gardner —, Hardwick — Hubbardston— New Salem — Oakham — Orange — Petersham — Phillipston — Princeton —- – Rutland — Royalston — Templeton — Warwick — Westminster — Winchendon
Did we miss something? Or should we add something to any of the pages? Let us know. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324.
- Parking Ban 1-18-26 (1/18/2026)
From the City of Gardner: “Due to the predicted inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban today, Sunday, January 18th, 2026 beginning at 5:00pm, expiring tomorrow, Monday, January 19th, 2026 at 7:00am. The CodeRED Call will be issued at noon out of respect for the various residents attending church services this morning. “
- Hotline Radio 1-17-26 (1/17/2026)
Storm – Emergency Planning – City Government – MBTA Act – Westminster Podcast Focus of Hotline
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hotline Radio 1-17-26 On the WGAW Hotline Radio Show of January 17, 2026: Host Steve Wendell informed listeners that an on-street parking ban was in effect in Gardner MA until 7pm. First guest was Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who spoke about the merits of the new salt shed, stating it was the right investment to make. The Mayor said “Gardner is open for business” and explained how the City is open to speaking to anyone about making their business a reality in the City. Other topics were municipal property sales, water, the State budget process, and grants.
Guest Paul Topolski who serves as Gardner’s Emergency Management Director provided a treasure trove of information on storm and safety tips ranging from providing power to medical devices, safely hooking up generators, and emergency communications.
Werner Poegel gave a complete report on the Gardner City Charter with an explanation of Gardner City Government. Mike Urban had a commentary on the MBTA Communities Act. Also included: Westminster Town Crier Episode 17 with Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen.
- Parking Ban 1-17-26 (1/17/2026)
From the City of Gardner: “This is a message from the City of Gardner. Due to the inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban on Saturday, January 17th, 2026 from noon until 7:00pm. Thank you for your patience and attention to this matter, as DPW crews work to clear the streets.”
- History: Winchendon MA (1/16/2026)
SPECIAL REPORT: The History of Winchendon MA
Gardner Magazine is publishing a special page focusing on the history of Winchendon, Massachusetts. The page contains various narratives, exploring the history of Winchendon from different perspectives and about different subjects. For the History of Winchendon page, CLICK HERE.
Listen to a “Deep Dive” about the History of Winchendon on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – History of Winchendon MA Listen to a “DEBATE” on whether Winchendon should stick to its Toytown moniker. CLICK PLAY.
DEBATE – History of Winchendon MA The special history page has narratives and infographics on the History of the Toytown, Winchendon, MA. CLICK HERE.
- This Week 1-16-26 (1/16/2026)
This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” covering Gardner for Friday, January 16, 2026
Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 1-16-26 In this week’s edition: MWCC Excellence Lists, Precipitation needed due to drought, Gardner Finances, Planning Board and 3 Projects, History of Massachusetts, the Z-Man, Heywood Solar Panels, License Commission re Pyrotechnics, Conservation Commission, Inauguration, Dog License Time, and Upcoming Meetings.
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- MLK Day 2026 (1/16/2026)
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday, January 19, 2026. Post Offices, City Hall, and Town offices are closed. Most retail is open. The Gardner City Council meeting will be on Tuesday, January 20th due to the holiday.
FULL COVERAGE – Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 19, 2026
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a United States Federal Holiday – Monday, January 19, 2026 – established to honor the life and legacy of the prominent civil rights leader. Observed annually on the 3rd Monday of January, the holiday commemorates King’s dedication to nonviolent activism and his role in achieving significant legislative reforms for racial equality. The legislation was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 despite significant political opposition and was not recognized by all 50 states until the year 2000. The Day is also designated as a National Day of Service. Gardner Magazine has a “Deep Dive” about the holiday and a “Debate” explaining the various politics involved.
Listen to the “Deep Dive” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Martin Luther King Jr. Day Listen to the “DEBATE” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DEBATE – Martin Luther King Jr. Day 
- Westminster – Town Crier 17 (1/15/2026)
Town of Westminster Releases Town Crier Episode 17
In this podcast episode, Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen launches the 2026 season of The Town Crier by reflecting on the program’s inaugural year and outlining future municipal goals for Westminster, Massachusetts. The podcast has been utilized to provide information on local government operations for residents, while previewing critical upcoming milestones such as the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Planning and the Annual Town Meeting. Significant updates include a reduction in the property tax rate and the formation of a Strategic Staffinc Committee and ongoing renovations at the Old Town Hall. Lahtinen also invites community participation through photo submissions and listener feedback for the Town Crier to guide future topics. Listen to Episode 17 on any device, CLICK PLAY.Town Crier Episode 17 – Westminster MA While there have been a total of 2000 downloads to the episodes through the town website, there have been tens of thousands of downloads through Gardner Magazine and thousands of LIVE listeners each episode through WGAW’s Hotline Radio Show and 1000 to 3000 additional listeners per episode by those who listen to the Hotline livestream after the program airs.
- MWCC Excellence Lists (1/15/2026)
Mount Wachusett Community College President’s, Dean’s, Distinction, and Excellence Lists
MWCC announced its President’s, Dean’s, Distinction, and Excellence Lists for last semester.
Full-time students who complete a minimum of 12 semester hours are eligible for the President’s and Dean’s lists. The Dean’s List requires a 3.30 to 3.99 grade point average while the President’s List requires a 4.0 grade point average.
Part-time students who have earned between 6 and 11.5 semester hours and who have attained a grade point average of 4.0 and have received no incomplete grades are honored with placement on the Distinction List, while those who attain a grade point average between 3.3 and 3.99 are honored as Excellence List members.
The complete Press Release has a list of all the names, CLICK HERE.
- Winchendon – Super – King (1/15/2026)
Charlotte King Is the School Superintendent in Winchendon
The Winchendon School Committee signed a 3 year contract with Charlotte King which goes until 2029 with a base salary of $178,500. King has worked for the Winchendon School District for about 3 years serving in such roles as Dean of Students at Toy Town Elementary and Director of Pupil Services. About a year ago, King was given the job of Assistant Superintendent. Now she has the top job. Gardner Magazine has the AUDIO of the School Committee meeting of January 8th. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Winchendon School Committee 1-8-26 In other matters, The Winchendon School Committee meeting held on January 8, 2026, focused on district updates, financial planning, and leadership stability. A student representative outlined several community service initiatives including hygiene drives and fundraisers, while the superintendent reported on holiday events, a free flu clinic, and progress on building renovation projects. The primary discussion centered on the preliminary FY27 budget, which faces significant challenges due to rising special education costs, decreasing federal grants, and a reliance on local funding despite level-funded supplies.
- Precipitation Needed (1/15/2026)
Greater Gardner MA is now in Moderate Drought or Level 2, Significant Drought depending on whether you use the Federal or State terms. Bottom line: Precipitation is needed.
Precipitation Needed in Greater Gardner MA and State of MA due to Various Levels of Drought
Our graphic shows 2 maps from Drought.gov and the State of MA. Greater Gardner is now suffering from Moderate Drought according to Drought.gov. And the State of Massachusetts calls it Level 2 – Significant Drought. We have a “Deep Dive” discussing the situation and providing recommendations. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – 1-15-26 On January 12th, Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared that the Central and Northeast Regions have worsened to a Level 2–Significant Drought. Conditions also declined in nearly all other regions, moving the Southeast Region to a Level–1 Mild Drought and the Millers River Basin to a Level 3-Critical Drought. In the Islands Region, Dukes County has returned to Normal Conditions and Nantucket County has moved to a Level 3–Critical Drought. Conditions remain unchanged in the Western, Connecticut River Valley, and Cape Cod Regions.
During December, Massachusetts received rainfall ranging from 3 to 4 inches, but the month ended with totals at 1-2 inches below normal. When looking back over the past 3 to 6 months, precipitation deficits still persist. The forecasted rainfall is anticipated to bring near normal precipitation through the end of the month.
The current drought, which began in 2024, has continued to have significant impacts on the natural environment, including the drying of streams in nearly all regions, lower water levels in lakes and ponds, and impeding fish passage out to the ocean.
As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, continued detailed monitoring of drought conditions must continue. The drought levels also require ongoing coordination among state and federal agencies to implement drought response actions. Additionally, engagement with municipalities, including local Boards of Health (BOH), is essential. This includes providing technical outreach and assistance to water suppliers and affected municipalities. Residents are asked to report to their local BOH in case of wells drying up; BOHs are asked to report here on the condition of local private wells.
State agencies will continue to closely monitor and assess conditions across the state, coordinate any needed dissemination of information to the public, and help federal, state, and local agencies prepare additional responses that may be needed in the future. The DMTF will meet again on February 10th at 9:30 AM. For further information on water conservation and what residents can do, visit the EEA’s drought and water conservation pages.
- Finance 1-13-26 (1/15/2026)
Operational Concerns, Internet Outages, Council Rules Topics of Finance Meeting
The Gardner Finance Committee met on January 14, 2026. Gardner Mayor Nicholson and Councilors Alek Dernalowicz and Council President George Tyros addressed several municipal fiscal and operational concerns.A significant portion of the discussion centered on the repayment plan for the City’s Salt Shed regarding the Mayor’s plan to reimburse the stabilization fund for principal and lost interest.
Mayor Michael Nicholson also provided an in-depth explanation regarding recurring internet outages, attributing the issues to administrative billing errors and a lack of redundant service providers.
The Committee reviewed and approved updates to the City Council rules aimed at streamlining legislative deadlines and subcommittee jurisdictions. The members debated the potential disposition of municipal land on West Lynde Street with Councilor Brad Heglin expressing hesitation over losing public parking.
Finally, the meeting touched upon the future of City Facilities management and the formal confirmation of a significant monetary gift of over $10,000 from the Department of Public Works to the Community Action Committee. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Finance Committee 1-14-26
- Planning 1-13-26 (1/15/2026)
Planning Board Focuses on 3 Projects at January Meeting
The Gardner Planning Board meeting of January 13, 2026 focused on three primary development projects, starting with the final approval of a site plan for 827 Green Street involving a new farm building and parking.The board then addressed a pond expansion project located in neighboring Hubbardston, ultimately deciding to draft a letter confirming their awareness of the proposal without offering a formal endorsement or objection.
A significant portion of the session was dedicated to a preliminary subdivision plan for Pearl Street, where representatives proposed a 46-unit residential loop road across 55 acres. During this discussion, members suggested the developer explore open space residential design and new city housing ordinances to potentially increase density while reducing land disturbance. Due to the complexity of these revisions and the implementation of new zoning laws, the board kept the Pearl Street project in the preliminary phase and noted that future meetings may increase in frequency to accommodate rising workloads. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Planning Board 1-13-26
- History of MA (1/14/2026)
Gardner Magazine Resource Page – History of MassachusettsThis page contains a number of resource reports and analyses, infographics, and AUDIO podcasts. Visit the page or go directly to a specific section using one of the links below.
Resource Reports: Historical Briefing — Boundary Disputes, — Beyond the Tea Party, 5 Surprising Truths That Redefine Massachusetts History,—The Architects of Massachusetts: A Profile of Key Historical Figures, — From Colony to Commonwealth – The Story of Revolutionary Massachusetts
Infographics: Historical Briefing — Boundary Disputes, — Beyond the Tea Party, 5 Surprising Truths That Redefine Massachusetts History,—The Architects of Massachusetts: A Profile of Key Historical Figures, — From Colony to Commonwealth – The Story of Revolutionary Massachusetts
- Z-Man Commentary (1/14/2026)
The Z-Man – A Commentary on the Works of Jonathan Zlotnik
Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel recently did an interview with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik entitled: “The Year Ahead” – CLICK HERE for article. Today’s commentary focuses on a man who some call the “Z-Man”, a sort of local Super Hero who does much behind the scenes for his local communities. The commentary is about Jonathan Zlotnik’s “magic” and some of what he has gotten done. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Z-Man Commentary by Werner Poegel In the commentary: The $100,000 Hyphen in which the merger of the Gardner and Winchendon District Courts is saving $100,000 per year, the focus on the Student Opportunity Act to better fund the local schools, the advocacy for greater road funding, supporting facilities for our youth, and some huge housing projects. The Z-Man Superhero moniker may be a little over-the-top, but praise for Zlotnik’s work in his District is right on… Learn more in our interview entitled: “The Year Ahead” – CLICK HERE for article.
- Heywood Solar Panels (1/14/2026)
Heywood Healthcare Flips Switch on Long-Awaited Solar Panels
Heywood Healthcare stated: “In partnership with National Grid, RER Energy Group, and GES, we are harnessing clean energy to reduce our carbon footprint and lower costs. This project creates a sustainable pathway to reinvest in local care and economic growth. As an independent, community-owned system, we are proud to invest in a greener future for Gardner and beyond.”
Heywood Healthcare issued an Official Press Release, CLICK HERE for pdf.
On January 13th, Heywood Healthcare unveiled its stalled decade long solar panel project at Heywood Hospital. The project is now officially live and Heywood stated it “marks a significant step forward in the organization’s commitment to environmental stewardship and operational efficiency….brings clean, renewable energy to the Gardner campus, helping to stabilize energy costs and reduce the healthcare system’s carbon footprint.”
- License 1-13-26 (1/14/2026)
Short But Significant License Commission Meeting ends with Pyrotechnics Safety Advisory
The Gardner License Commission Meeting on January 13, 2026 was mostly routine and involved voting on formal leadership and administrative tasks and an update on a pending license transfer for a local restaurant. However, the commission confirmed that updated local regulations are now officially in effect for the current year regarding the use of pyrotechnics at licensed venues. Received was an advisory from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. Department of Fire Services. Gardner Magazine is publishing that Press Release from the State below. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
License Commission 1-13-26 Press Release from the Department of Fire Services – January 6, 2026
STOW — State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine today sent a notice to Massachusetts bars and restaurants regarding the fire hazard posed by sparklers, which are believed to have contributed to the tragic New Year’s Eve fire that claimed dozens of lives in a Switzerland bar.
“Please be advised that sparklers and other pyrotechnic devices, including so-called ‘cold spark’ pyrotechnics, are illegal for possession, sale, and use in Massachusetts without professional licensing, certification, and permitting,” State Fire Marshal Davine wrote in a notice to proprietors of restaurants, nightclubs, bars, and discotheques. “This includes small sparklers that have been sold as novelties or party favors to accompany champagne bottles, which are believed to have caused the New Year’s Eve fire that claimed 40 lives and injured more than 100 people in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.”
The Marshal thanked the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission, which has provided the notice to local licensing officials for distribution to licensed establishments, and the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, which is distributing the notice to its members.
Separately, the Department of Fire Services issued a notice to a Hialeah, Florida, business that markets sparklers online. This business, King of Sparklers LLC, reportedly sold and shipped sparklers that were later recovered by Fall River Fire Department inspectors at a local establishment.
“The shipment of prohibited fireworks products into the Commonwealth constitutes a violation of Massachusetts General Law and the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Code and presents a significant public safety concern,” the notice stated.
State Fire Marshal Davine said that sparklers burn at temperatures of over 1,800° Fahrenheit and cast sparks that can easily ignite furnishings, decorations, and other flammable materials. They can remain hot enough to start a fire even after they’ve been extinguished, as happened in 2022, when the unsafe disposal of illegal sparklers caused a three-alarm fire in Dracut that displaced nine people. They are classified as fireworks in Massachusetts and their possession, sale, and use require professional licensing and certification.
“The tragic fire in Switzerland has a chilling similarity to the Station Nightclub fire in Rhode Island, which led to numerous safety reforms in Massachusetts bars and clubs,” State Fire Marshal Davine said, noting the sprinkler regulations, inspection schedules, and crowd manager requirements that are now in place in Massachusetts. “We just want to help these businesses keep their patrons and staff safe.”
- Model City 2026 (1/13/2026)
CLICK HERE for our HUGE Resource page on Gardner, Model City for America with podcasts, video, infographics, and lots of history to read, CLICK HERE.
An Introduction to the Resource page on Gardner MA “Model City for America”
Gardner Magazine has coined the term “Model City for America” for the City of Gardner MA. The reasons why are chronicled on a website dedicated to the success of the last 5 years, Fiscal6.com, CLICK HERE.
We have developed a complete resource page on Gardner, “From Chair City to Model City” which chronicles Gardner’s history, Gardner’s successes, features a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady, features a DEBATE with Max and Maxine Rogers, features a video entitled “A Modern Comeback, a 21st Century Revival” plus a number of really cool and comprehensive infographics on what has happened in the history of Gardner. If you love Gardner, you’ll love the big page, CLICK HERE.
- Conservation 1-12-26 (1/13/2026)
Conservation Commission Met on Various Issues
The Gardner Conservation Commission met on January 12, 2026 and members addressed various local environmental and land-use issues. The board begins by approving certificates of compliance for residential properties, resolving long-standing title issues caused by developer oversights. A significant portion of the session focuses on a proposed construction project on Green Street, where the commission reviews updated drainage calculations and grants an order of conditions. Additional updates are provided regarding a state grant for renovating a local playground and potential maintenance work on a collapsed culvert. The meeting concludes with the re-election of the chairperson Greg Dumas and a report from Conservation Agent Justin Enright concerning beaver dam removals, professional development, and upcoming environmental conferences. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.Conservation 1-12-26
- Hubbardston Interim (1/12/2026)
For more information about the Town of Hubbardston, please visit the website,, CLICK HERE
Hubbardston Chooses Interim Town Administrator
The Select Board vote is in and so is Sean Fitzgerald as the Interim Town Administrator for the Town of Hubbardston. At its first January meeting, the board voted unanimously to approve Fitzgerald’s appointment. Fitzgerald had previously served as the Town Administrator in Swampscott for 8 years, leaving there at end of 2024 his contract ended early. Fitzgerald’s first day was Tuesday, January 6th.. Fitzgerald will hold the post until a permanent Town Administrator is hired, or until June 30th unless his current agreement is extended. Pay rate is $70 per hour for 20-30 hours per week.
Selection Process: According to a Press Release by the Town of Hubbardston, the appointment followed a competitive recruitment process in which nine applicants submitted materials for consideration. After an initial review, four candidates were selected for interviews conducted by two Select Board members and two senior staff members. Based on those interviews, the panel recommended one finalist to the full Select Board. The Select Board expressed confidence that Mr. Fitzgerald’s experience and leadership will provide continuity and stability for town operations during the interim period.
Next Steps: As part of the permanent Town Administrator search process, applications for the Town Administrator Search Committee are due January 15th. Appointments to the committee are expected to be reviewed and voted on at the Select Board meeting scheduled for January 19th.
- Hotline 1-10-26 (1/10/2026)
Hotline 1-10-26 On WGAW Hotline Radio Saturday, January 10, 2026 – Updates, Daycare Fraud, the “Z-Man”, and Inauguration
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.
WGAW Hotline Radio 1-10-26 Steve Wendell commented that today was the kickoff of the Greater Gardner Relay for Life with an event taking place at MWCC, the first Lap of 2026.
First guest on the show was Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who spoke about the ceremonial Inauguration on January 8th and noted that Foreign dignitaries came to the event — The Mayor reviewed accomplishments of 2025 and explored 2026 including the Master Plan, continuation of the Rear Main Street Project, breaking Ground on the South Gardner Project, and planning for projects as far out as 2029 and 2030. “2026 will be a very busy year in a good way” – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson.
Mike Urban: A Commentary on Daycare Problem Fraud in Massachusetts. Urban is very critical of many of the journalists who won’t report on the fraud which is occurring. Urban states many day cares are gaming the system by pretending to be something they are not. In some cases, payments are made, but no children actually attended. Government programs are “robbing people to pay Paul.” People just on the cusp of making it are getting screwed due to some daycares being subsidized.
Werner Poegel: A Commentary on the Z-Man, State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. Poegel speaks on Zlotnik’s various initiatives and his sometimes “magical” approach to solving problems.
2nd Hour: The Complete Gardner Inauguration Ceremony of January 8th
- Dog Licenses 2026 (1/9/2026)
It’s Dog License Renewal Time Once Again in Greater Gardner MA
Greater Gardner communities are once again reminding dog owners that it’s “Dog License Time 2026”. There’s time to do it, but there’s no better time than now. Many communities allow residents to renew online.
In the City of Gardner, for example, Dog Licenses are now available and are due by March 31st. Fee for males and females not fixed: $15.00. For neutered or spayed dogs, the fee is $11.00. After March 31st, there is an additional late fee of $10. The actual fee is waived for dogs owned by individuals aged 70 or older, but you still must go through the renewal process. You can renew online through the City of Gardner’s portal, CLICK HERE.
The City of Gardner notes: “If you no longer have a dog that was previously licensed with the City or have moved, please notify us so that we can remove you from the system and avoid any unnecessary fees and/or violations” The location for dog licenses is the City Clerk’s office in Gardner City Hall and the telephone number is (978) 630-4058. Here’s a link to the dog license page, CLICK HERE.
Who must license a dog: All owners or keepers of a dog 6 months or older are required by state law to license it annually. Proof of alteration must be provided when first licensed and rabies vaccination must be current. Check with the town clerk in your community and/or your town website as procedures and dates vary by town.
Gardner Magazine is releasing the original song “Dog License”. It’s from the perspective of a dog who clearly appreciates having a dog license.
Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Dog License Time – original song
- Inauguration 2026 (1/9/2026)
Overall, the Gardner Inauguration Ceremony on January 8, 2026 projected a vision of a city focused on pragmatic problem-solving, strategic investment, and regional leadership. Speakers consistently praised Gardner’s momentum, attributing its success to a results-oriented approach that prioritizes progress over political division.FULL COVERAGE: – Gardner MA 2026 Inauguration
Gardner Massachusetts held its 2026 Ceremonial Inauguration on January 8, 2026. Many local, state, and even international leaders were in attendance. Listen to the complete event AUDIO here on any device. CLICK PLAY. (Nicholson speech and Tyros speech by themselves below.)
Inauguration 1-8-26 MC was Massachusetts Director of Rural Affairs Anne Gobi and State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik and Council President George Tyros also spoke. Gardner Mayor Nicholson, the entire City Council, and the 3 newly elected members of the School Committee were sworn in to office.
During his inaugural address, CLICK HERE Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson reviewed several key milestones such as educational advancements, housing reforms, significant infrastructure improvements, and more. The ceremony itself included musical performances by local choirs, a presentation of colors, and religious invocations from local clergy members. Throughout the proceedings, the common theme emphasized by officials was a commitment to fiscal discipline, transparency, and collaborative governance to ensure the community’s continued growth. The event concluded with a call for unity and a shared vision for Gardner’s future as the City navigates new economic challenges.
Nicholson speech 1-8-26 A Robust Portfolio of Accomplishments from the past 5 years were detailed in Nicholson’s Inaugural Address.
Mayor Nicholson gave a Five-Year Retrospective of Accomplishments: • Education: ◦ Curriculum: Made civics and financial literacy graduation requirements. ◦ Inclusivity: Conducted library audits to ensure diverse representation in school books. ◦ Vocational Training: Created the Montachusett Vocational Partnership Academy with Monty Tech, a first-of-its-kind state program allowing students to graduate with both a high school diploma and trade credentials. ◦ Facilities: Renovated Landry Auditorium, Lachance Gymnasium, Watkins Field athletic complex, and several varsity fields. • Housing and Development: ◦ HOME Act: Passed a zoning ordinance to combat the housing crisis by allowing tiny homes, increasing accessory dwelling unit sizes, lowering parking requirements, and zoning over 25% of residential properties for multi-family development by right. ◦ Blight Remediation: Remediated and sold several former factory sites including those at Rock, Stuart, West, and Leamy Streets and is finalizing sales of the former School Street and Helen Mae Sauter School sites for housing development. • Public Safety: ◦ Police: Created specialty translator positions to assist in Spanish, Portuguese, and other languages. ◦ Fire: Purchased two new fire engines, a heavy rescue truck, and two new ambulances, with a new ladder truck and another ambulance forthcoming. Provided every firefighter with a second set of turnout gear and EMS protective jackets. • Resident Services and Recreation: ◦ Social Services: Reinstated the domestic violence advocate position as a full-time role and invested $150,000 in local food pantries. ◦ Library: Increased hours at the Levi Heywood Memorial Library to 50 per week, including nights and year-round Saturdays. ◦ Parks: Made substantial investments in every city neighborhood, including new equipment and a walking path at Ovila Case, new pickleball courts and a playground for young children at Bailey Brook Park, refurbished tennis courts, and upgrades to the Pulaski Dog Park. ◦ Bike Trail: Extended the North Central Pathway around Crystal Lake. • Fiscal and Operational Management: ◦ Grant Funding: Retained Keller Partners company, leading to the acquisition of over $52 million in grant funds. ◦ Budgeting: The new Gardner Elementary School project was completed over $10 million under budget.
Mayor Nicholson spoke of Future Initiatives:
• Infrastructure: The South Gardner Infrastructure Improvement Project will break ground this year to move overhead wires underground and install new sidewalks and Victorian lighting. • Environmental Sustainability: Projects are planned to install solar panels on all city buildings and new EV fast chargers in public parking lots and parks. • Economic Growth: ◦ Propose new ordinance amendments to ease restrictions on senior/student housing, commercial signs, and general business operations. ◦ Create a “Pull Up a Chair Manual,” a step-by-step guide for entrepreneurs looking to open a business in Gardner. • Capital Investment: The surplus from the elementary school project is being reinvested into repairs at City Hall, a new community center, high school athletic locker rooms, and a new roof for the Gardner Middle School. The Mayor concluded with a call for continued collaboration, stating, “When others go to social media sites, we go to work. When others try to sew division, we break ground on progress. While others make noise, we make a difference.”
Council President Tyros spoke about rigorous financial oversight
George Tyros Speech 1-8-26 City Council President George C. Tyros underscored the Council’s commitment to rigorous fiscal oversight, particularly in anticipation of “significant fiscal headwinds” from shifting state and federal funding. He celebrated the unprecedented re-election of all 11 incumbent counselors as a public endorsement of their work, which has included reforms in economic development, housing, and city policy. Tyros noted that for the first time in at least 20 years, the fact that all 11 incumbent counselors won re-election is a mandate they “do not take for granted.” President Tyros affirmed the Council’s role as a “check and balance” dedicated to operational excellence and earning the trust of the electorate.Tyros highlighted several policy achievements from the past term: ◦ Reforming the economic development department for cost savings and better performance. ◦ Leading on compensation modernization to retain long-serving employees. ◦ Modernizing housing codes to support smart growth. ◦ Updating the city’s sexual harassment policy, which had not been revised in decades. Council President Tyros paid tribute to the late Ron Cormier, the longest-serving counselor in the city’s history, whose passing left a void of institutional memory. Tyros stated, “We honor his legacy tonight by recommitting ourselves to the steady and honorable leadership he exemplified for 38 years.”
- This Week 1-9-26 (1/9/2026)
This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday, January 9, 2026
Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week 1-9-26 In this week’s edition: Gardner City Council and Gardner School Committee meetings – The Icy Weather – Interview with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik – Ceremonial Inauguration – Board of Health – Council on Aging – Dog License Time – Resources pages on Gardner City Government, City Charter, Chair City to Model City, and An American Milestone, Gardner Jobs Guide, First Baby of the Year, Gardner Fire Department Calls for 2025, and Upcoming Meetings.
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- Year Ahead – Zlotnik 2026 (1/8/2026)
The Year Ahead –2026 – A Comprehensive Interview with Jonathan Zlotnik
Gardner Magazine spoke with State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik on January 8, 2026. We review 2025 and we speak about the year ahead, 2026. Listen to the entire interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel and Jonathan Zlotnik took a look back at 2025 with some key achievements being a savings of $100,000 annually simply by effectuating the merger of the Winchendon and Gardner District Courts into the Winchendon-Gardner District Court, securing $10 million in infrastructure funding, and being involved in an important Veterans Housing project in Winchendon. 2026 Top priorities include education, the housing crisis, and infrastructure as is detailed more fully below and in a detailed infographic.
Gardner Magazine has prepared a briefing document with key themes and priorities from State Representative Jonathan Zlotnik. CLICK HERE for PDF and a Report entitled: “the $100,000 Hyphen: 5 Lessons from Local Government, CLICK HERE for PDF — or — CLICK HERE to view the text in a separate page.
In 2025, significant achievements included securing over $10 million for water and sewer infrastructure in the district, championing a revised road funding formula that benefits rural communities, and advancing major youth service initiatives like “The Hub” in Winchendon and the Gardner Community Youth Center. A cornerstone project, the redevelopment of two Winchendon schools into 44 units of veterans’ housing, moved forward with approximately 90% state funding.
Looking ahead to 2026, Representative Zlotnik’s top priorities are twofold: ensuring the full and continued funding of the Student Opportunity Act to provide stable support for K-12 education, and aggressively addressing the regional housing crisis through state investment in redevelopment projects. Supporting priorities include ensuring the financial sustainability of Heywood Healthcare, continuing investment in youth services and infrastructure, and strengthening local food security systems. Throughout, Zlotnik contrasts the Massachusetts legislature’s track record of consensus-building with federal-level gridlock, underscoring a pragmatic approach to governance.
- Board of Health 1-8-26 (1/8/2026)
Gardner Board of Health Meets Regarding Alleged Open Meeting Law Violations
The Gardner Board of Health met on January 8, 2026, primarily to address a formal Open Meeting Law complaint. The board discussed an advisory from the city solicitor regarding executive sessions used for health director interviews, which were allegedly conducted in private improperly. Members expressed confusion over the legal distinction between private pre-screening and public interviews, noting the difficulty of balancing candidate confidentiality with transparency requirements. Ultimately, the board voted to adopt the city solicitor’s recommendations, which include releasing meeting minutes and filing a formal response with the Attorney General. The session concluded with a commitment to refine their hiring processes once legal counsel returns from vacation to clarify specific statutory language. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Board of Health 1-13-26
- School Committee 1-6-26 (1/7/2026)
Gardner School Committee Holds First Meeting of the Year
The Gardner MA School Committee met on January 6, 2026 and reelected Rachael Cormier as Vice Chair. The School Committee also selected other administrative officers and welcomed newly elected member Paul Cormier who won his seat in the November election (Shannon Ward-Leighton had decided not to run again).
Policies were reviewed as various district guidelines received initial or final approval from the Board. Student representatives provided a comprehensive report on recent academic achievements, holiday events, and athletic milestones within Gardner High School. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
School Committee 1-6-26
- Council on Aging 1-5-26 (1/6/2026)
Organizational Restructuring and Financial Oversight Focus of Council on Aging Meeting
The Gardner Council on Aging met on January 5, 2026. The current Chair Ron Dameka, Vice Chair Paul Leone, Treasurer Terri Hillman, and Secretary Kathy O’Brien were reelected. Financial reports were a major component of the discussion, with officials detailing the status of the general fund, gift fund, and various grants while noting rising utility and maintenance costs. Director Mike Ellis provided an extensive report highlighting community outreach achievements, upcoming tax assistance programs, and necessary repairs to the facility’s fire escape. Also discussed: the ongoing renovations at the Waterford Street location, specifically regarding bathroom upgrades and future plans for professional painting. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Council on Aging 1-5-26 Details on some of the challenges faced: While overall spending from the General Fund is tracking at the expected 50% mark, several key budget lines signal structural challenges that demand attention. The items below are selected for this article. Here is our complete report on pdf, CLICK HERE.
• Overtime: This line is at 90% utilization, a pressure resulting directly from the success of our popular, high-demand evening programming. While this is a positive indicator of community engagement, it creates an urgent need for a sustainable funding solution. The planned mitigation strategy of having salaried staff cover more evening hours is a temporary measure, and a supplemental budget request will be necessary.
• Repairs & Maintenance: This line is currently approximately $1,500 over budget and is on a trajectory to reach a total expenditure similar to last year’s $17,000. Given the ongoing needs of the facility, a supplemental budget request is highly likely.
• Energy & Utilities: While appearing healthy at only 18% utilization, actual monthly expenses are 33% higher than last year. The budget has remained solvent only due to citywide National Grid credits. This signals a significant future vulnerability, as the budget is not structured to absorb the true 33% increase in energy costs once the one-time city credits are depleted.
• Office Supplies: At 75% utilization, this line is already over budget. It was noted that some of these costs can be absorbed through other available funding mechanisms to alleviate pressure on the General Fund.
- GFD Calls 2025 (1/6/2026)
GFD Handles Record of 6,324 Calls in 2025 – Infographic, DEEP DIVE, and DEBATE.
The 2025 Activity Report for the Gardner Fire Department details a historic peak in local emergency operations within the city of Gardner, Massachusetts. Over the course of the year, first responders managed 6,324 total incidents marking a significant 4.5% rise in activity compared to the previous year. Data visualization reveals that medical emergencies and rescues constituted the vast majority of these calls, though the department also addressed various fires, hazardous conditions, and false alarms. Beyond reactive emergency response, the department remained active in public safety through 1,089 code inspections and the issuance of hundreds of permits. This reflects a five-year growth trend in service demands, highlighting the diverse responsibilities handled by the municipal staff. Our top graphic profiles a few categories, while the infographic below shows more detail.
Gardner Magazine prepared a “Deep Dive” podcast with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady explaining it all. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – GFD 2025 Gardner Magazine also prepared a “DEBATE” podcast with Max and Maxine Rogers discussing the 5 year pattern of demand. The central question. Should there be a shift in focus for the Department based on the type of calls as over 2/3 of the calls were Medical or Technical rescue? – OR, should things stay as is since the data suggests the current methods are working?
Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEBATE: GFD 2025 
- BOH Transitions (1/6/2026)
In Last Meeting of 2025, the Gardner Board of Health Addressed Leadership Transitions and Staffing Vacancies
A top candidate for the vacant Health Director role has withdrawn from the process. The Chair of the Board of Health, Susan Avalone has resigned after 17 years in the post. Other staffing vacancies in the department were also discussed. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Board of Health 12-29-25 The Gardner Health Department is currently “significantly understaffed”, operating with permanent leadership or adequate administrative support. Key vacant positions are Health Director, Administrative Coordinator, and Transfer Station Supervisor. A top candidate for the position of Health Director was offered the job and formally accepted, but unexpectedly withdrew his acceptance on December 18th. A second candidate has been offered the position and the Board was waiting for a response at the time of this meeting.
Adding to the Challenges: Adding to the challenge, a resident filed a complaint alleging a potential Open Meeting Law violation related to how the director interviews were conducted. The board held the interviews in a private executive session. This is a valuable lesson on the tension between government transparency and practical necessity. The board chose to conduct interviews privately because, as one member explained, multiple candidates expressed concern that “their current employees did not know that they were looking for jobs” and a public process “would have been detrimental for them.” While protecting candidate confidentiality is crucial, the law is unclear on whether a full quorum of the board can participate in private interviews. This situation highlights how local officials must constantly navigate complex rules to perform their duties correctly.Progress Discussed: During the meeting, the Board discussed the progress on the Leachate Pump repair with the repairs having started on December 3rd and expected to take several months. The Landfill Cap Erosion Repair project is on hold as the Board is applying for a grant to hopefully find the money needed. Acting Director Angela DiPrima updated the Board on the bed bug infestation at a local apartment complex and noted that despite 3 professional treatments, some bugs remain and one unit is actually unfit for habitation due to damage from the insects and the insecticide. The Board is working on how to help the resident clean her personal belongings without spreading the infestation. The Board of Health is starting a new program for the safe disposal of medical sharps such as needles and syringes and is moving forward with a new program that will allow residents to safely and properly dispose of old or unused medications.
- City Council 1-5-26 (1/6/2026)
Gardner City Council Organizes for New Year and Closes Out Maki Park Project
The Gardner City Council met on January 5, 2026 and unanimously reelected George Tyros as Council President. A significant portion of the session focused on a detailed report and presentation by Director of Community Development and Planning Jason Stevens on the Maki Park Project where Stevens apologized for past transparency failures and ADA Compliance issues, even though none were his fault as they occurred before he was Director. Officials confirmed that while the park now meets accessibility standards, final completion awaits minor welding delayed by winter weather. The financial history of the project was discussed. Council President George Tyros noted that he would have voted against the project if the final cost of over a half million dollars was disclosed at the inception of the process. Costs went far beyond the initial appropriation of $180,000. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
City Council 1-5-26 Praise for George Tyros: At the beginning of the meeting, Council Brad Heglin praised Councilor George Tyros for his performance in the role during the previous term, noting that he led with grace and impartiality and brought more oversight and accountability.
Absolute Clarity: To provide absolute clarity for both the City Council and the public, Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas asked Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson 3 questions. Here are the questions and the Mayor’s responses: 1. Is Maki Park now ADA complaint? – answer – Yes. 2. Once the final welding is done, is the project complete? – answer – Yes. 3. Will the Council be asked for any more money for the project? – answer – No. —– The infographic below highlights key issues of the Maki Park Project.
- First Baby of 2026 (1/5/2026)
Heywood Hospital Reveals First Baby Born in the New Year!
Heywood Hospital of Gardner MA has revealed the first baby born in 2026 and it’s a healthy baby girl born to parents from Fitchburg.
Heywood Hospital stated: “Welcome baby Scarlett, Heywood Hospital’s first baby of 2026! Born January 2 at 11:03 am, she weighs 7 lbs 12 oz and is 20″ long. Congratulations to proud parents Megan Vincent and Brian Cunningham of Fitchburg. Wishing this family a happy, healthy new year from all of us at LaChance Maternity Center!“
Heywood describes itself as a “birthing friendly” hospital. Long considered an excellent choice for expectant mothers, Heywood Hospital has one of the lowest cesarean section rates in the state. Maternity Services Include: Tele-NICU, 24-hour Anesthesia Services, Doula Program, Interpreter Services, Labor Support, Lactation Services and VBAC (vaginal delivery after a previous cesarean section).
For more information on the Lachance Maternity Center at Heywood Hospital, visit their website, CLICK HERE.
- American Milestone (1/5/2026)
Throughout the year, Gardner Magazine will cover all of the celebration and events related to the 250th Birthday of the United States. We present an Extended Deep Dive and Debate on this page. Our full page has so much more. View the special page, CLICK HERE.
An American Milestone – Complete Coverage of Key Events in American History
Gardner Magazine has complete coverage of the upcoming American Milestone, the 250th birthday of the United States of America on July 4, 1776. We have created a special page with History reports, Deep Dives, Debates, an embedded explainer video, a complete Analysis of Enduring Events in American History, an original song called “An American Milestone”, and detailed historical infographics. The goal: Make History as interesting as possible while celebrating our nation’s birthday. View the special page, CLICK HERE.
An Extended Deep Dive on Events in American History with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady
DEEP DIVE – Events in American History A Debate on American Events with Max and Maxine Rogers.
DEBATE – Events in American History The complete page has History reports, Deep Dives, Debates, an embedded explainer video, a complete Analysis of Enduring Events in American History, an original song called “An American Milestone”, and detailed historical infographics. View the special page, CLICK HERE.
- Commentary – Report WGAW On-Air Hosts (1/3/2026)
Radio Station WGAW is celebrating 80 years on-the-air. (1946-2026)
Featured in the commentary are segments of the original song: “On The Radio, WGAW” Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
WGAW On-Air Hosts – Report and Commentary
Listen to the Report and commentary on the occasion of WGAW’s 80th Anniversary on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Commentary – On-Air Hosts WGAW The report goes over the entire lineup of WGAW which is heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streams to everywhere in the world.
Weekdays on WGAW: Gordon Deal – America’s First News: 5-6am, Steve Wendell – The Morning News: 6-9am, Mike Gallagher: 9am to noon, Grace Curley: noon to 2pm, Scott Jennings: 2-3pm, Hugh Hewitt: 3-6pm, Mark Levin: 6-9pm, John Batchelor 9pm-1am, Red Eye Radio 1-5am.
Saturdays on WGAW: Gordon Deal: 6-7am, Tony Perkins: 7-8am, Public Affairs: 8-9am, Garry Sullivan: 9am to noon, Hotline Radio: Noon – 2pm, Larry Kudlow: 2-5pm, Eye on Veterans: 5-6pm, Kim Komando: 6-9pm, Art Bell: 9pm to midnight.
Sundays on WGAW: Art Bell: Midnight to 4am, Red Rye Radio 4-6am, Paul Parent Garden Club: 6-10am, Sunday Reports: 10-10:30am, Holy Rosary Mass: 10:30-11:30am, Week in Review with Steve Wendell: 11:30am – noon, Gary Sullivan: Noon-3pm, Pet Show with Warren Eckstein: 3-4pm, Chris Plante: 4-7pm, Rich DeMuro: 7-10pm, Bill Cunningham 10pm-1am.
WGAW Programming Video 2-9-26
- Hotline 1-3-26 (1/3/2026)
First Hotline Radio Show of 2026
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hotline Radio 1-3-26 First up on the WGAW Hotline Radio Show of January 3, 2026 is Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who highlights 2025 with a review of successful projects and grants, advancements in education, the movie in Gardner, and the housing ordinance. As the Mayor put it: “A Diving Board to jump off of to 2026.” Nicholson stated he is always cautiously optimistic about the City’s finances, making sure Gardner is living within its means and able to maintain programs from year to year. The Mayor’s Inaugural Address is Thursday, January 8th at Perry Auditorium and will cover past successes and the road map for 2026. WGAW will broadcast the event live.
The discussion turned to an update of other items. At Rear Main Street, the granite structures have been installed and the completion date is Mid Spring to Early Summer. National Grid is running underground electrical for the project and some other buildings in Downtown. South Gardner will be getting underground electric and will be spruced up with updates such as Victorian light posts. The Greenwood Pool Pavilion work starts in the Spring and in other work, the Spray Park is being repaired and the pool will be resurfaced. Lifeguards will get a higher, more competitive rate of pay this year due to recently approved increases. Pedestrian Bridge construction over Route 140 is projected for 2027. There’s no further update yet on the Sludge Landfill Project. Move ins to the Waterford Community Center will continue, and yes it is safe as multiple air quality tests have come back as clean. As far as other projects, the City and private sector is just waiting for the snow to melt and Spring to arrive.
Other items: Various commentary by Steve Wendell on Festivus Waste. limiting immigration until the recent large influx can be handled, the penalty agreed upon by Dana Farber Institute for obtaining grants with misleading statements and Daycare fraud. Mike Urban with a commentary on Daycare. There are now 4000 centers in Boston MA area when there previously were about 2000. Urban speaks on Covid money getting funneled into spending programs after 2020. Urban’s opinion is that some fraud is going on including parents who aren’t bringing kids to a daycare, but split the money with the business. Report and Commentary – WGAW On-Air Hosts with Werner Poegel. A Complete review of all the WGAW On-air hosts who are “on the radio.”
- This Week 1-2-26 (1/2/2026)
This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday, January 2, 2026
Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 1-2-26 In this week’s edition: Upcoming City Council and School Committee reorganization meetings – City Council Rules – 5 Year Capital Improvement Plan – 2 original New Year songs – WGAW Hits a Milestone – Year in Review – Events Calendar. Upcoming meetings.
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- Debate – City Council Rules (1/1/2026)
City Council Rules – a Debate on the Balance Between Rigorous Deliberation and Instant Response
This Gardner Magazine debate with Max and Maxine Rogers concerns the official procedural framework governing the Gardner City Council. The rules establish administrative protocols for the legislative body including the scheduling of regular and special meetings, the special order of business and the duties of the Council President. Detailed regulations address the legislative process such as how ordinances are introduced, debated, and enacted, while also defining the scope of several standing committees. Also included, voting requirements, preservation of public records by the City Clerk and the conditions under which rules may be suspended or amended. Robert’s Rules of Order is designated as the ultimate authority for conduct, assuring a structured and transparent governance process for the City of Gardner. Here’s a copy of the Gardner City Council Rules updated as of February of 2025 (last year) and here’s the debate AUDIO which you can listen to on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DEBATE – City Council Rules We also have a “Deep Dive” on City Council rules which we first published in March of last year. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – City Council Rules
- Capital Projects 2026 (1/1/2026)
A “Deep Dive” into the Gardner MA 5 Year Capital Improvement Plan FY 2027 to FY 2031
The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss the Gardner 5 Year Capital Improvement Plan. The various items will be discussed at an upcoming meeting of the Capital Improvement Committee on January 7th. Listen to the “Deep Dive” on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Capital Improvement Plan The 5 Year Plan documents over $88 million of needs on the list prioritized as Emergency, High, or Low. Gardner always attempts to cover expenditures with grant funds when possible. When funds are not available in a given year, the items simply wait. View the agenda for the upcoming meeting for all the details which are up for discussion, debate, and review. CLICK HERE for 5 Year Capital Improvement Plan PDF.
Below is a detailed infographic outlining the various topics under consideration.
- The Year Ahead – original song (12/31/2025)
Gardner Magazine releases an original song for the New Year “The Year Ahead” by The Poegs.
Listen to the original Pop-Funk Celebration song on any device, CLICK PLAY.
POP – The Year Ahead by The Poegs If you’re planning for changes in the year ahead, you’ll love the song. Every day, every week, every month, the entire year of 2026 is a new opportunity and a new beginning. The year ahead is filled with decisions and we hope you’ll put God, family, and friends first.
From the song: “The Year Ahead, the year ahead, Moving forward in the year ahead, The Year Ahead, the year ahead, Moving forward in the year ahead…(moving forward in the year ahead!)“
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
- The Year Ahead – 2026 – Nicholson (12/30/2025)
In this “Year Ahead 2026” Interview, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson outlines an ambitious agenda for building on a big year of progress in 2025. The interview itself and the infographic below demonstrate the specifics.
A Forward- Looking Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – The Year Ahead 2026
Listen to the entire interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.
INTERVIEW – The Year Ahead 2026 with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson
In an interview looking toward 2026, Mayor Michael Nicholson outlines an ambitious agenda for Gardner, Massachusetts, focused on infrastructure and community revitalizing. The city is prioritizing the South Gardner Village Center and Rear Main Street projects, which include modernizing electrical systems despite national supply chain delays. Nicholson highlights majorhousing reforms intended to encourage growth by reducing red tape and allowing for diverse options like tiny homes. The discussion also emphasizes the successful expansion of recreational spaces, such as the popular disc golf course at Bailey Brook Park, and the upcoming 250th anniversary of the nation. To fund these initiatives, the city relies on a high-performing grant-writing strategy that has secured millions for local improvements. The Mayor also speaks about education at Gardner Public Schools which is ahead of the national curve and provides both college and trade opportunities for high school students. Overall, the mayor aims to maintain the city’s economic momentum while preserving its unique character as a “City with a town’s heart.”
- High Wind 12-29-25 (12/29/2025)
High Wind Warning: 7pm December 29th to 1am Wednesday December 31st.
High Wind Warning for Greater Gardner MA
The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for several counties across Massachusetts, effective from Monday evening December 29th through early Wednesday December 31st. Meteorologists anticipate sustained western winds punctuated by dangerous gusts reaching up to 60 mph. These intense conditions are expected to cause utility disruptions and structural damage by toppling trees and power lines. Residents are urged to prioritize personal safety by staying on lower building levels and avoiding windows during the storm. Additionally, the advisory warns that vehicular travel will be hazardous, particularly for larger trucks and vans sensitive to sudden air movements. Individuals in the affected regions should remain vigilant against falling debris and exercise extreme caution if they must commute.
- WGAW 80 Years (12/29/2025)
Greater Gardner Radio Station Achieving Major Milestone
Since taking over WGAW over a decade ago, Owner, Newsman, and Host Steve Wendell has made quality programming a priority. During the past several months, Wendell has been working on starting off the 80th year with a bang and it appears he has achieved that goal many times over. The station owner recently contracted with CBS to provide the news at the top of the hour, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The roster of weekday talk show hosts has been updated to include the popular Grace Curley at noon, Scott Jennings at 2pm, and Hugh Hewitt at 3pm. The AUDIO of “60 Minutes” runs Sundays at 7pm WGAW airs on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streams worldwide.
WGAW went on the air in 1946 just after World War II and in 2026 achieves 80 years on the air. For the complete program roster visit the WGAW website, CLICK HERE.
WGAW Programming Video:
CLICK for larger view. — The radio station has released a Press Kit on PDF which showcases the On-air talent on the station. CLICK HERE.
Station Owner Steve Wendell made a dedication to hyper-local content which is evident in the Morning News which airs 6-9am on weekdays, Local and regional updates throughout the day, the Hotline Radio Show on Saturdays from noon to 2pm, Frequent weather updates and program break-ins when severe weather (or when breaking local, regional, state, national, or world news warrants), on-the-scene live broadcasts from local events, and a commitment to promoting the region’s non-profit organizations.
Steve Wendell has made an ongoing offer to non-profits in the community who need exposure for their organizations or would like to promote events. Simply contact the station via News@WGAW1340.com or call (978) 632-1340 and leave a message.
Hotline Extended Life: Similar to popular television programs, the WGAW Hotline Radio Show has a streaming life which expands the thousands of listeners who tune in on a typical Saturday from noon to 2pm. Streaming stats show an additional audience for each show from under 1000 to well over 2000 additional listeners. The station maintains an archive of previous shows you can easily download, CLICK for the page.
- Year 250 – original song (12/27/2025)
Gardner Magazine Releases an original song “Year 250” about the New Year.
America celebrates its 250th birthday on July 4, 2026. This original song written by Werner Poegel and rendered under the group name “The Poegs” celebrates the start of the New Year and the celebration to come. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Year 250 by The Poegs From the song: “Accelerate, accelerate. Accelerate to celebrate. America’s two fifty. A New Year to elevate. Elevate, elevate. Elevate to celebrate. America’s two fifty. A celebration to generate….America, America, America’s Two fifty, Happy New Year for America’s Two fifty, Celebrate, Celebrate, in the entire nation,A very proud American population. …20 26 will be, two fifty in our nation’s history. The year reminds, of a well-fought victory, So let’s bring on a party all year long, With this New Year’s Wish in a song. “
- Report – Year in Review 2025 (12/27/2025)
Report and Commentary- Year in Review 2025 – Top News, Issues, Events, and Happenings Impacting the City of Gardner the most in 2025
Listen to the Year in Review with Werner Poegel on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Report and Commentary – Year and Review 2025 Categories covered: Government, Good News for Gardner, The Election, Development, Projects, Updates, Grants, Health, Public Safety, Public Transportation, Environment, Recreation, Education, Media Milestones, Big News at the Library, Business News, Senior Center, Industry, Housing, Veterans, Legal Stuff.
- Hotline 12-27-25 (12/27/2025)
WGAW Hotline Radio Year-End Show Features Updates, Segments on Politics, and a Year in a Review
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY
City of Gardner Update, Report, and Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Gardner Mayor Nicholson thanked everyone who participated in the Caroling with the Mayor video, the AUDIO of which was played Christmas Day morning on WGAW. The Mayor noted that some of the groups had practiced since August when the weather was hot. — A discussion ensued about snow removal, the 3 hour routes, that sidewalks within 1 ½ miles of a school are cleaned up by the City, that Businesses are responsible for the sidewalks in front of their locations, and Mayor Nicholson explained how the budget is planned for snow and ice removal — The status of codeRED was discussed — Nicholson gave a run down on the Trash Removal & Holiday Schedule — As far as the upcoming inauguration of City officials: Official Swearing in is on January 5th at 10am at City Hall with the Ceremonial Inauguration Thursday Jan. 8th — City Council meets Monday, January 5th, School Committee meets Tuesday January 6th, — WGAW will be broadcasting the ceremonial Thursday Inauguration LIVE, The Levi-Heywood Memorial Library will be having a New Year’s Eve celebration. The Mayor wished everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR.
Hotline featured a segment with Mike Urban on Massachusetts Politics. Urban notes that the Democrats have drifted far into Progressive territory and are living in an echo chamber so far from where they actually stand on the issues. — Steve Wendell speaks about the misuse of SNAP benefits and questioned why the legislature is blocking an audit. 15 percent of the Massachusetts population gets SNAP benefits,but the poverty rate in MA is only 10 percent. Wendell speaks about the illegal pot coming in to Massachusetts from farms in Maine owned by the Chinese. Wendell states that a lot of corruption is going on in Massachusetts. Wendell reminds everyone to feed the birds.
A Mayor’s December Update with Michael Nicholson recapping various schedules, issues, and events.
A special Year in Review presentation and REPORT with Werner Poegel of Gardner Magazine going over the news which impacted the City of Gardner in the past year.
- Boudreau out (12/27/2025)
Nathan Boudreau Out – Hubbardston Seeking Interim Town Administrator
The Hubbardston Select Board held a meeting on December 22, 2025, to address critical personnel transitions and municipal management issues. Following the negotiated resignation of the Town Administrator to be effective December 26, 2025, the board discussed hiring an interim replacement and established a formal search committee to find a permanent successor. To maintain daily operations during the holidays, they appointed an existing staff member as a temporary administrator and updated several job descriptions to include accounting and billing responsibilities. Beyond staffing, members reviewed an electricity aggregation program aimed at lowering resident utility rates and addressed a tax billing oversight regarding a previously approved fire truck purchase. The meeting concluded with plans for professional accounting consultations to rectify discrepancies in the town’s financial records.
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Nathan Boudreau’s contract ended early by agreement on 12-26-25. Boudreau had been on Administrative Leave for reasons which were not stated to the public. The board will be seeking an Interim Town Administrator for 3-6 months with an estimated work load of 20 hours per week.
- Time Travel Pitfalls (12/26/2025)
Feature: In a Season of Making Memories – The Pros and Cons of Time Travel
A Debate with Max and Maxine Rogers – The Perils and Promise of Time Travel. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEBATE – Pros and Cons of Time Travel It’s a Debate to be taken seriously if you acknowledge the possibility of this possible future technology or delightful thought-provoking entertainment if you believe it’s just Science Fiction. In any case, it’s a great discussion which demonstrates a new feature Gardner Magazine will have on more serious subjects, the DEBATE, where various sides of an issue are argued before you in a podcast.
If you have an idea for a great DEBATE, email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324.
For various DEBATES and commentary on national issues, visit our national podcast site, POEDM.net, CLICK HERE.
- Parking Ban 12-26 (12/26/2025)
From the City of Gardner: “Due to the predicted inclement weather, there will be an on-street parking ban this evening, Friday, December 26, 2025, beginning at 9:00pm, expiring tomorrow Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 7:00am.”
- Business Launch 2026 (12/26/2025)
A “Deep Dive” to Launching a Massachusetts Business in 2026
Listen to the “Deep Dive” on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Starting a Business in Massachusetts It’s a helpful instructional roadmap for individuals aiming to launch a commercial venture within the state of Massachusetts. Updated for the year 2026, the Deep Dive functions as a strategic handbook that outlines the necessary steps for navigating the local business landscape. It targets prospective entrepreneurs who require a foundational understanding of the state’s specific regulatory and economic environment. By providing structured guidance, new business owners are well-prepared for the legal and logistical challenges of the upcoming year. Ultimately, it acts as a comprehensive resource for fostering economic growth and innovation in the region. We also have links here to State of MA resources and City of Gardner resources. If unsure for your community, just contact your local Town Hall for information. Often the Town Clerk’s office can steer you in the right direction.
For more information about starting a business from the State of Massachusetts, CLICK HERE. Or view ,the State of MA Business front door, CLICK HERE.
For information about starting a business in the City of Gardner and various requirements, a good place to start is the Department of Development and Planning page “Starting a Business”, CLICK HERE. Or visit their main page,, CLICK HERE.
- This Week 12-26-25 (12/26/2025)
This Week’s Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday, December 26, 2025
Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 12-26-25 In this week’s edition: Caroling with the Mayor video, Pre-Christmas update, New feature: Debates with Max and Maxine Rogers, The Gardner Dog Park, Year in Review, 2026 Events Calendar, Poedm.net, Upcoming Meetings.
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- Events 2026 (12/26/2025)
Note to readers: Gardner Magazine has put up its 2026 Events Calendar at the right side of the home page.
Get your event on this 2026 Events calendar. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. We will provide a link to your details such as a website, image, PDF etc. (Whatever helps promote your event.) Government, Non-Profits, and businesses welcome. FREE exposure to 30,000+ unique households monthly.
- Poedm.net Update (12/26/2025)
Poedm.net provides AUDIO commentary, podcasts, DEEP DIVES, and DEBATES which cuts through partisanship, presents solutions with simple common sense, and preserves the dignity of all people.
Our National Podcast Site, Poedm.net Gets an Upgrade
Poedm.net was launched in 2024. Recently, the site was upgraded to include podcasts, Deep Dives, and even debates about the subject matter on the site. There are infographics on every page. POEDM.net provides Audio Commentary and Infographics for common sense solutions and dignity to all people.
The site features a wide array of AUDIO on dozens of pages to include Historical speeches and Historical AUDIO,
People issues covers the well-being of the community on such topics as addiction, religion, education, the drug epidemic and enforcement, health, recreation, public safety, domestic violence, and childcare.
The Planet: We speak about and cover the planet including the environment, climate change, tourism, pollution, and clean air & water.
The Government section focuses on the scales of justice, cooperation, Energy in America, the power of Government, transportation infrastructure, and states’ rights.
Policy: We discuss policy including border security, immigration, public assembly, freedom of speech, taxes, and foreign policy.
Behavior: The behavior section focuses on human interactions and society including crime, choices, civil rights, respect and generations, events and festivals, and violence.
Economics covers budget and finances, the trade deficit & imports/exports, inflation, homelessness, the aging population, and affordable housing.
Our Oversight area covers some powerful topics such as Time Travel, Building Standards, Policing, Information & Data Security, Space Exploration, and Extraterrestrials.
There’s hours and hours of podcasts. Listen on the site or download for later. While Gardner Magazine focuses on the Greater Gardner area, Poedm.net is about the Nation picture. Visit the website: Poedm.net
- Debate – Space Heater Safety (12/23/2025)
Space Heater use can be dangerous. It is the hope of Gardner Magazine that listeners to this podcast will do so safely and save lives. Never leave a space heater unattended.
Gardner Magazine Introduces a New Feature – Debates with Max and Maxine Rogers. Debut Podcast: Space Heater Safety
These brother and sister AI Characters are part of the Rogers family. The idea is to provide an objective discussion on an important issue. In this Debate, Max and Maxine speak about the 3 foot clearance rule and the Never-use- an- extension cord rule. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Debate: Space Heater Safety To ensure home fire safety, users must maintain a three-foot clearance between space heaters and any flammable household items. It is critical to plug these devices directly into wall outlets, as utilizing extension cords creates a significant fire hazard. For maximum protection, heaters should only operate on flat, stable surfaces under constant supervision and must be powered down before sleeping or exiting a room. Consumers should prioritize purchasing equipment that features a safety certification label from a recognized testing laboratory. Additionally, users must keep electric units away from moisture and avoid prohibited items like unvented kerosene heaters. Following these preventative measures protects children, pets, and property from the dangers of accidental combustion and saves lives.
- Caroling with the Mayor 2025 (12/23/2025)
Caroling with the Mayor 2025 Caroling with the Mayor 2025 – Available is VIDEO and AUDIO of this beloved Gardner tradition.
Caroling with the Mayor 2025 is Released
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has released the 2025 “Caroling with the Mayor”, the annual virtual caroling event to celebrate the 2025 holiday season. Listen to the AUDIO on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Caroling with the Mayor 2025 Or if you wish, play the video right out of this page so you can see all the performers. Greater Gardner Community Choir opens it up with a performance from Handel’s Messiah “Unto Us a Child Is Born”. There’s a diverse array of musical performances from local schools, church groups, and community choirs showcasing the city’s artistic talent. Interspersed between the songs, the Mayor highlights various festive decorations within Gardner City Hall, including a tree honoring military members and entries from a departmental door-decorating contest. Mayor Michael Nicholson acknowledges the contributions of local organizations such as a task force dedicated to domestic violence awareness and prevention. The program concludes with a community-wide sing-along and a message of gratitude toward the citizens and staff who made the celebration possible. This annual program serves as a communal tribute to Gardner’s spirit and local traditions during the Christmas week.
If you watch Caroling with the Mayor on your phone, you can orient the phone so that you can view it wide screen. If you watch on the computer, you can make it go full screen for a better view. Or listen to the AUDIO we have provided.
- Mayor’s Pre-Christmas Update (12/22/2025)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson reviews holiday schedules: City Hall closed at noon on December 24th and closed Christmas Day and December 26th, closed at noon on December 31st and closed New Year’s Day and January 2nd. See infographic below for more information.
A Pre-Christmas Update from Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – IMPORTANT Holiday Schedules
Listen to the update on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Mayor’s December Update 12-22-25 Mayor Nicholson provides essential holiday information regarding City operations and special events, addressing holiday closures for City Hall and the local transfer station while also outlining an adjusted trash and recycling collection schedule for the final weeks of the year.
Residents are encouraged to register for the Code Red emergency alert system to receive accurate winter parking ban notifications following technical upgrades.
Mayor Michael Nicholson outlines several community traditions including a televised caroling program, the upcoming inauguration ceremony in January, and a discounted early-bird sponsorship for the City’s Downtown flower pots.
The Mayor concludes with a call for year-round charity and a preview of family-friendly library activities scheduled for the winter break.
- Santa’s Journey (12/21/2025)
A Deep Dive – The Global Journey of Santa Claus
Learn about this mythical journey. Listen to the “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady on any device.
DEEP DIVE – The Christmas Eve Global Journey of Santa Claus From Norad: Santa’s route from the North Pole starts at the International Date Line, traveling west across the Pacific to New Zealand, Australia, then Asia, Africa, Europe, and finally the Americas, following the night to deliver gifts, all tracked by NORAD using radar and Rudolph’s nose heat signature. Santa departs the North Pole on Christmas Eve, heading towards the International Date Line. Santa visits the South Pacific, then New Zealand and Australia, working his way west. Asia & Africa: Next, Santa travels over Japan, across Asia, and then to Africa. Europe: From Africa, he heads into Europe. The Americas: He crosses the Atlantic to Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Central & South America. NORAD: The North American Aerospace Defense Command tracks Santa using its powerful radar, satellites (detecting heat from Rudolph’s nose), and fighter jets.
Website: Visit NORAD Tracks Santa for live updates on Christmas Eve. CLICK HERE.
Phone: Call 1-877-HI-NORAD to speak with live operators or hear recorded updates.
- Dog Poop – Editorial (12/21/2025)
Editorial and Deep Dive – Lazy Losers Affecting Proper Pooper Scoopers at the Gardner Dog Park.
Most dog owners are conscientious and pick up after their pets. But the few who don’t have created a problem big enough to anger some people who come to the Gardner Dog Park in Gardner MA.
One lady posted: “I was at the park today and on the small dog side there was so many big dog poops! It was the worst that I’ve ever seen. This is why my dog hasn’t been there very often…” Another stated: “When at the dog park, this is why there are bags to pick up after your dog takes a poo. Those of us who are responsible understand this and pick up after our pups. Personally, I always have bags on mydogs lead so I don’t leave the house without them. At the dog park there is also a rake and shovel to assist with pick up after your dog.” I posted half in jest: “I don’t know if you have heard. But the fine for not picking up POOP at the Dog Park has been increased to 1 billion dollars.”
The problem of not picking up Dog Poop at the Gardner Massachusetts Dog Park was addressed scientifically in a post. Local citizen Claude Vautour informs us of the dangers. Claude posted: “This post is not meant to disrespect the 95 % of responsible owners who actually do pick up their dog’s excrement but to enlighten the other 5% of the health risks when it is not picked up.” Claude Vautour, one of the admins of the Gardner Dog Park page wrote about the dangers of Dog Poop at the Gardner Dog Park . “Dog poop is a significant health hazard because it carries bacteria (like E. coli, Salmonella), parasites (roundworms, hookworms, Giardia), and viruses that can transmit diseases to humans, especially children, the elderly, or immunocompromised individuals, causing issues from diarrhea and fever to blindness (Toxocariasis) and severe infections, and it contaminates water and soil, persisting for long periods.” The Chair Lady and the Chair Man analyzed Claude’s information in this “Deep Dive” discussion.
DEEP DIVE – Dog Waste a Public Health Hazard Our infographic should make the point of the health risks including bacterial, parasitic, and viral infections plus specific diseases such as toxocariasis, giardiasis, campylobasteriosis, and salmonellosis. Thank you to Claude Vautour for caring enough to research this issue.
- Hotline Radio 12-20-25 (12/20/2025)
In last show before Christmas WGAW Hotline Radio features some Holiday Themes and Reflections Along with Gardner UpdatesListen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hotline Radio 12-20-25 First up on Hotline Radio December 20, 2025: In last show before Christmas WGAW Hotline Radio features some Holiday Themes and Reflections Along with Gardner Updates. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who affirmed that he is happy being Mayor and is not running for other offices including Lieutenant Governor (more made-up Facebook posts) Host Steve Wendell asked the Mayor about singing and Nicholson said he started back in High School when he was invited to join the choir. The Mayor subsequently was part of the Men’s Chorus at Umass Amherst. The Caroling with the Mayor event is coming up on December 22nd with FREE Horse-drawn carriage rides. As the Mayor put it, “a cheap date.”
Other Discussion also revolved around Snow Clearing at the Schools. A focus on City of Gardner Finances – There are 47 applications out right now for grants and the City will hear back in the March-April 2026 time frame. A discussion of the “Double Pole” problem when utility poles are replaced. A discussion of business and taxes: – Aid to municipalities – Incentives for businesses to come to MA – – The Meals Tax – Cannibis Tax – State proposal for Cannibis Cafes – Influx of Illegal drugs to MA. – January will be the “State of the City Address” where Mayor Nicholson will highlight what’s coming up in the next year including various development projects. The Mayor wished everyone a very Merry Christmas.
Holiday themed items in the show included the song”I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas” by Bing Crosby, the interview with Shawn Hayden about GAMMHA Christmas Trees, the “Joy of Christmas” Commentary by Werner Poegel speaking about Christmas, original Christmas songs written by Poegel, and the history of Christmas. – Steve Wendell speaks about his visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole some years ago, saying that Santa Claus told him he does it all with Quantum Physics. Also played, the Little Drummer Boy by Pentatonix. Steve announced that he had received a fax from Jimmy the Elf (real name withheld) at the North Pole revealing which Beacon Hill politicians will be getting coal in their stockings. Also featured: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
Other commentary: Steve Wendell spoke about the Facebook posts made by ungrateful people who get items for free and then post they are dissatisfied with the variety of what they get for free. Mike Urban on Energy Bills in Massachusetts. Urban plays conflicting statements by MA Governor Maura Healey.Urban speaks about the thwarted gas pipeline.
- This Week 12-19-25 (12/19/2025)
This Week’s Expanded Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday, December 19, 2025
Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 12-19-25 In this week’s Edition: Upcoming Christmas Holiday, Flowerpot Sponsorships, Fish Contamination, Busy Senior Center, MWCC Child Watch, ZBA Cases, License Applications, City Council, Project Updates, Handel’s Messiah, Golf Course, Original Songs, Financial Distractions, Board of Assessors, Server Upgrades at Gardner Magazine, Undiscovered leaks, Cost of Irrigation, History of Christmas, Upcoming Meetings, Jobs with the City of Gardner, Submitting Information to Gardner Magazine.
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- Flowers 2025 (12/18/2025)
City of Gardner Announces Flowerpot Sponsorships are Now Open
It’s not even the New Year yet, but the City of Gardner is noted for planning ahead. In this case, plans are already underway to get ready for the Spring flowerpots which have added so much color to both Downtown Gardner and South Gardner as well.
Sponsors can save $50 by sponsoring a flowerpot prior to March 1st.
Here’s the statement from the City of Gardner: “2026 Flowerpot Sponsorships Are Now Open! Help brighten our community by sponsoring a 30” flowerpot for the 2026 season. Take advantage of our Early Bird Special, pots are just $150 if purchased before March 1, 2026. *After 3/1/26, sponsorships will be $200 each. These vibrant flowerpots add color and charm to our downtown streets. Thank you for helping our city bloom!”
To reach Gardner City Hall call (978) 630-1490
- Boudreau on Leave (12/18/2025)
Hubbardston Town Administrator on Administrative Leave
Gardner Magazine has learned that Hubbardston Town Administrator Nathan Boudreau is on Administrative Leave. Gardner Magazine has reached out to Boudreau and offered to publish his statement on the matter. We will update this article should we get further information.
A total of 6 Hubbardston employees have recently left the town. We will report on this more as we have accurate information. Facts are important and we will not report speculation.
Update: Statement from Nathan Boudreau on December 19, 2025: “I can confirm that I am currently on paid administrative leave. Out of respect for the process, and the Town of Hubbardston, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time. I remain grateful for the opportunity to have served the community and to have worked alongside dedicated staff and elected officials, particularly on operational modernization efforts and the transition to the new municipal space at 48 Gardner Road. Any future professional work I may consider would be separate from municipal operations obligations and conducted in full compliance with all ethical and legal obligations.” – Nathan Boudreau
- Don’t Eat the Fish (12/18/2025)
Don’t Eat the Fish – Gardner Health Department Health Advisory
The Gardner Health Department has advised that there is a Public Health Advisory related to Kendall Pond and fish contaminated with mercury. You can learn more here at the City of Gardner website, CLICK HERE. See the letter from the State of MA to the City of Gardner. In part, the letter states that elevated levels of mercury were measured in fish most recently sampled by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. The recommendation is that sensitive populations should not eat largemouth bass and all other people should limit consumption of largemouth bass to 2 meals per month. State page listing all problem waters, CLICK HERE.
Gardner Magazine has prepared a “Deep Dive” with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady utilizing the comprehensive guide from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health regarding safe fish consumption within the state. See guide on pdf, CLICK HERE. Listen to the podcast on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Guide to Safe Fish Consumption The State guide explains that while fish is generally healthy, industrial pollution introduces harmful chemicals like mercury and PCBs, which accumulate in fish. The DPH issues fish consumption advisories (FCAs), differentiating recommendations for the general population and*sensitive people (such as children and pregnant individuals), who are more vulnerable to chemical exposure. The guidance advises eating less predatory fish and suggests reducing exposure by avoiding fat and fatty tissues when preparing meals. Additionally, the text provides specific freshwater and marine FCAs, noting that stocked trout have less chemical exposure and encouraging people to check the status of local waterbodies.
There are 291 entries pertaining to hazards of eating fish from Massachusetts ponds, lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. The predominant warning relates to mercury, pfas, other chemicals, and pesticides. Visit this page for the latest list. We also have this infographic below on Safe Fishing in Massachusetts.
- Senior Center Activities Dec 25 (12/18/2025)
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with his caricature. Some of the Activities at Busy Gardner Senior Center
Graphic shows various activities in December 2025 at the Gardner Senior Center. Local caricature artist Don Landgren Jr. stopped by December 17th and gave FREE drop-in caricatures. The Senior Center posted: “We were also thrilled to have special appearances from several local departments, including Mayor Nicholson and his team, who all stopped in to have their caricatures drawn!“
Middle photo shows the Senior Center holiday party on December 15th. Senior Center posted: “…afternoon was filled with holiday cheer, great music, delicious food, raffles, contests, and a fun holiday-themed game. We truly enjoyed celebrating the season together! A special thank you to The Terryrifics for spending the afternoon with us and sharing incredible jazz, blues, and holiday music.”
The American Red Cross came to the Gardner Senior Center and shared fire safety information. “
They reminded us that the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is the busiest time of year for home fires, due to increased cooking, more people in the home, cold weather, space heaters, and older holiday decorations.”Some key takeaways from the Red Cross Fire Safety Tips: 1. Stay alert and avoid distractions while cooking. 2. Be aware pets an accidentally knock over candles and space heaters, creating a fire risk. 3. Keep Christmas trees watered and dispose of them when they dry out to avoid one of the biggest fire hazards 4. Lights and extension cords can be dangerous. 5. Smoke Alarms should be replaced every 10 years. The American Red Cross will install a detector for FREE. To schedule a free smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector installation, you can contact Luca at the American Red Cross at (774) 261-0581 or the Toll Free 24/7 Hotline at 800-RED-CROSS
- MWCC Child Watch (12/18/2025)
For more information about supporting students at Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) visit this web address, CLICK HERE.
MWCC Gets Additional Support for Child Watch Program
The Mount Wachusett Community College Foundation has received a gift from the Bemis Foundation for $5,000 and a gift from the Crocker Foundation for $10,000 to go towards the Child Watch program. Child Watch provides FREE, high-quality child watch services for MWCC student parents while they attend classes, meet with advisors, study, or participate in other college activities. The program is staffed by trained student employees, recent graduates, and individuals with childcare experience. The children are provided age-appropriate enrichment activites in a safe and supportive environment.
MWCC released in a Press Release: “The need for accessible, affordable childcare continues to grow across North Central Massachusetts. In a 2025 survey of MWCC student parents, 71% of full-time, Pell-eligible parents and 58% of part-time Pell-eligible parents reported difficulty securing regular, affordable childcare. Additionally, 61% of respondents— including 75% of part-time student parents—struggled to find childcare that aligned with their academic schedules. Eighty-two percent reported that caregiving responsibilities interfered with their ability to complete coursework, contributing to lower semester-to-semester persistence rates.”
“Demand is expected to rise following the October 2025 conclusion of MWCC’s federally funded Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program, which had long supported student parents in accessing early education and childcare services. The Child Watch program now fills a critical gap by providing convenient, on-campus support.
“The generosity of the Bemis Foundation and the Crocker Foundation ensures that our student parents have the support they need to stay enrolled and succeed,” MWCC President James Vander Hooven. “These gifts directly strengthen educational access and opportunity for families across our region.”
The MWCC Foundation, Inc., located in Gardner, Massachusetts, supports MWCC and its 29-community service region, which includes Ashburnham, Ashby, Athol, Ayer, Barre, Clinton, Fitchburg, Gardner, Groton, Hardwick, Harvard, Hubbardston, Lancaster, Leominster, Lunenburg, Oakham, Orange, Pepperell, Petersham, Phillipston, Princeton, Royalston, Rutland, Shirley, Sterling, Templeton, Townsend, Westminster, and Winchendon.”
- ZBA 12-16-25 (12/18/2025)
Publisher’s note: The first case is an example of a difficulty faced by a multi-unit property owner losing grandfather status which the Hardern-Nicholson proposal for zoning change was designed to alleviate.
Two Cases, Two Different Situations at ZBA Meeting
The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals meeting of December 16, 2025 focused on two distinct cases requiring special permits. Listen to the meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
ZBA 12-16-25 The initial case involves a property owner seeking to reinstate the status of a three-family dwelling that has been vacant since 2014, with the board questioning the applicant’s plan for meeting required parking spaces and snow storage, ultimately suggesting the applicant work with the building commissioner regarding a by-right two-family use. The case will be continued until next month while the applicant works with the Building Commissioner.
The second major item is a special permit application from Walmart Real Estate Business Trust to develop a motor vehicle fueling station and convenience store on their existing commercial property, with the board reviewing their compliance with nine special permit criteria before voting to approve the application. The meeting also touches on procedural rules and includes the approval of past meeting minutes.
- Westminster Jan ’26 (12/17/2025)
Town of Westminster Update for January 2026
The Town of Westminster MA has released the Sentinel edition for January 2026. CLICK HERE for pdf. Included are a range of important municipal updates and information, including tax and water bill due dates, reminders for dog license renewals and various yearly permits, and details about the upcoming town census. Additionally, the newsletter offers safety guidelines for winter activities, specifically focusing on ice thickness awareness and publicizes the Emergency Home Heating Assistance Program for eligible residents. Finally, the content highlights community initiatives such as the upkeep of Academy Hill trees and the fun concept of Free Libraries and “Blockbuster Boxes” for sharing books and DVDs. Gardner Magazine has prepared a “Deep Dive” discussing the contents. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Westminster MA – January 2026 We also have a detailed infographic for those who want a big visual to view or print out. Here’s the page, CLICK HERE.
- License 12-16-25 (12/17/2025)
This article focuses on the common license renewal hurdles and how to overcome them with advance planning. The infographic below can serve as a helpful guide.
Late and Incomplete Renewal Applications Focus of License Commission Meeting
The Gardner License Commission met on December 16, 2025 with the proceedings focused primarily on alcohol and other license renewals for the upcoming year. View the infographic below and listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
License Commission 12-16-25 The meeting addresses incomplete and late renewal applications from several establishments, and various restaurants, frequently citing missing documentation like insurance certificates, inspection forms (304), and unpaid late fees. Discussions often become contentious as applicants and commission staff debate the proper procedures and timelines for submitting paperwork, highlighting the challenges of a short-staffed office and a complex permitting system. Ultimately, the commission approves a list of complete 2026 license renewals and permits and discusses future procedural changes, such as adjusting inspection expiration dates to encourage earlier submission. Note that the Building Department has changed the inspection deadline to October 31st of each year to help the process.
- City Council 12-15-25 (12/16/2025)
The Gardner MA City Council meeting of December 15, 2025 is the last City Council meeting of the year. View the infographic for this meeting below. CLICK IMAGE for larger view.
Gardner City Council Meets for the Last Time in 2025
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
City Council 12-15-25
The council addresses several key issues, including approving a transfer of funds for professional services to address the vacant auditor position and authorizing another fund transfer to purchase new recording equipment for the council chambers. Furthermore, the council reviews updates from the Public Service, Public Safety, and Economic and Community Development committees, which cover topics like departmental staffing, infrastructure repairs, and various ongoing projects like the Maki Park investigation and the status of the Greenwood Pool Pavilion. The discussion also involves technical procedures, such as amending an ordinance concerning parking regulations and the formal approval of a revised city auditor job description, with council members also offering remarks on the successful launch of the Gardner Community Youth Center. For more information on Maki Park, view our article on the December 12th Community Development meeting.
- Development 12-12-25 (12/16/2025)
The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met on December 12th and focused on updates for numerous municipal projects. Those projects are seen in the infographic below.
Many Project Updates at Development Committee Rounds out Busy 2025
Listen to the lengthy meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.
Development 12-12-25 The Gardner Economic and Community Development Committee met on December 12th and focused on updates for numerous municipal projects. The Rear Main Street infrastructure project is at a stage which involves moving utility lines underground. There was a lengthy discussion on the Maki Park Project focusing on ADA compliance concerns and project financials. Director Stephens acknowledged that while the Maki Park solutions are not perfect, the park is ADA compliant subject to railings to be installed in Spring 2026 and the Building Commissioner’s approval of the stone dust currently being used.
The committee also reviews several Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) initiatives, such as the downtown phase 5 upgrades and the Greenwood Memorial Pavilion construction, while also addressing ongoing planning efforts like the Master Plan update and the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The director’s report emphasizes the city’s success in securing and efficiently utilizing numerous state and federal grants for these projects, specifically noting that taxpayer funds are minimized. View our infographic below. Click Image for a larger view.
- Handel’s Messiah (12/16/2025)
Greater Gardner Community Choir Performs Handel’s Messiah
The Greater Gardner Community Choir delighted the audience at Perry Auditorium on December 14, 2025 with selections from Handel’s Messiah. (UPDATE: 12-21-25 AUDIO now includes complete performance) Listen to the AUDIO on any device in full STEREO, CLICK PLAY.
Handel’s Messiah – 12-14-25 – Complete Performance From the Greater Gardner Community Choir website: “The Greater Gardner Community Choir is a non-auditioned mixed choir open to teens and adults of all backgrounds and abilities from Gardner, MA and surrounding communities. We sing varied programs of secular, sacred and popular accompanied choral music, and our Chamber Singers perform an array of acapella works. We are a member of the Central Massachusetts Choral Consortium, and a 501c3 non-profit organization.” Website, CLICK HERE.
- Golf 12-15-25 (12/16/2025)
Winter Maintenance and Planning for New Facility on Agenda at Golf Commission
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Golf Commission 12-15-25
In the Meeting: An update on a building feasibility study for a new restaurant with architects. The commission addresses golf course maintenance efforts, specifically focusing on winterizing equipment and clearing brush to speed up play, as well as the marketing of online gift cards and the management of lost and found items. Financial discussions show the golf course at 47% of its annual revenue and there was an outline anticipated large expenditures in the coming spring for planned work that will impact the budget.
- Christmas All Over the World – original Song (12/15/2025)
Gardner Magazine Releases original Traditional Christmas song: “Christmas All Over the World”
In the tradition of the songs you remember from when you were a child, this original song is intended to capture the magic of Christmas. Listen to “Christmas All Over the World” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS – Christmas All Over the World From the song: “Christmas Time is once a year, And Christmas time is here. Christmas in our neighborhood, And Christmas All Over the World. It’s Christmas, It’s Christmas. Christmas All Over the World. It’s Christmas, It’s Christmas. Christmas All Over the World.”
Gardner Magazine has a page of original Christmas Songs, CLICK HERE. In addition to Christmas All over the World, listen to Song of the Season, Snow Day, Christmas Garden, Light the Tree, I Saw a Snowflake, Sneaky Snow, A Christmas Memory, A Chair City Christmas, Christmas Wish for Peace, A Gardner Christmas Wish, The Gift of Christmas, and Officially Christmas in Gardner.CLICK HERE.
- Stay on Track (12/15/2025)
Stay on Track – Gardner Magazine Guide to Overcoming Financial Distractions
The Chair Man and the Chair Lady discuss how to overcome financial distractions in this “Deep Dive” podcast on Financial Wellness. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – Financial Wellness Some key takeaway suggestions: Consistently check in on finances to make the process less intimidating over time. Tackle one goal at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Perhaps take an online course. Clarify your financial goals. Limit temptation. Build an Emergency fund.
CLICK GRAPHIC for a larger view.
In a separate article, we have an original song entitled “Save, Save, Save”, CLICK HERE.
- Save, Save, Save – original song (12/15/2025)
Gardner Magazine Releases an original song: “Save, Save, Save!”
An original song about avoiding the trap of buying so much crap where the paycheck disappears and soon you’re in arrears. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.
COUNTRY ROCK – Save, Save, Save! FAST BLUES ROCK – Save, Save, Save! BLUES ROCK – Save, Save, Save! From the song: “I want to spend, spend, spend, But I’m gonna save, save, save. I want to get far ahead,..(far ahead) So I’m gonna save instead.”
- Assessors Dec 2025 (12/15/2025)
Assessor Christine Kumar (Left) and Member Paulette Burns (right) Another Super Exciting Board of Assessors Meeting in Gardner MA
Always exciting, the Gardner Board of Assessors met on Thursday, December 11th. The business-like 2 minute meeting focused on procedural matters including the acceptance of meeting minutes, the denial of a motor vehicle excise abatement due to timing issues relating to registration and cancellation. The meeting ends by going in to Executive Session because various abatement applications are not discussed in public. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Board of Assessors 12-11-25
About the Issue of Motor Vehicle Excise Abatements: Abatements are commonly granted for reasons such as selling, trading, or losing the vehicle, moving out of state, or if the assessment is incorrect. You are not eligible for an abatement if you cancel your registration but keep the vehicle, or if you move to a different Massachusetts town during the tax year. In that situation, you owe the excise to the town where you lived on January 1st.
- Server Upgrade (12/15/2025)
Gardner Magazine Upgrades Servers – Again!
Gardner Magazine has upgraded its servers once again. Due to website traffic and visitor volume, we have upgraded our servers to provide the most robust site experience. The private server has a processor with 16 cores. We have plenty of bandwidth and storage to handle our rich multimedia content. The upgrade resulted in 10 minutes of downtime on the morning of December 15, 2025.Here are some statistics which illustrate why the upgrade was needed: In the month of November 2025, Gardner Magazine had $5.3 million hits, 579,000 pageviews, 263,000 visits, and a unique circulation just over 90,000. See attached chart from our servers.
Gardner Magazine is pledged to provide you with the content you utilize for many years to come. Thank you for your readership. And remember, we love to publicize non-profit organizations. Just email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324.
- Public Service 12-12-25 (12/14/2025)
Huge Undiscovered Leak, Cost of Irrigation During Drought and Project Updates Subject of Public Service Committee Meeting
Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Public Service Committee 12-12-25 Representatives from a childcare program came in to appeal a significantly high water bill despite plumbers finding no leak, leading to a discussion about potential causes such as sporadic toilet issues and the City’s lack of an alert system for high usage.
The President of Chair City Baseball and Softball came in to request financial assistance to cover a large water bill for their newly irrigated field. The committee proposed to consult the City Solicitor about a possible cap on their non-profit water expense.
Updates discussed included completed projects like the Salt Shed construction and Crystal Lake roof replacement along with challenges such as requiring new plow trucks and the issue with signing a pump station contract due to the absence of a City Auditor. Also discussed: the Rail Trail Project, Capital Planning requests, environmental and compliance matters, and the pursuit of various grants to offset the cost of a multi-million dollar culvert project on Keyes Road. Two infographics are below.
CLICK above infographic for larger view 
CLICK above infographic for larger view
- Deep Dive – History of Christmas (12/14/2025)
A Gardner Magazine “Deep Dive” – The History of Christmas
This podcast with the Chair Man and the Chair Lady takes a Deep Dive into the History of Christmas. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.
DEEP DIVE – The History of Christmas The celebration of Christmas with all of its traditions has evolved over a couple thousand years since the birth of Jesus Christ. As stated in the “Deep Dive”, it’s a complex tapestry woven from ancient religious mandates, shifting political calendars, and even a fair amount of Medieval mischief. Christmas is the annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ observed primarily on December 25th. It’s a public holiday for billions, including many non-Christians. The “Deep Dive, History of Christmas” goes beyond the tinsel and delves into historical detail.
Merry Christmas!
- Hotline 12-13-25 (12/13/2025)
Holidays – Gardner Projects – Resolutions – Energy, and a bit of comedic relief on Hotline Radio for December 13, 2025
Listen to the entire show on any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hotline Radio 12-13-25 The WGAW Hotline Radio Show of December 13th kicked off with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson who spoke about codeRED and storm readiness. f you registered for codeRed after March 1, 2025, you’ll need to re-register for Code Red. Host Steve Wendell and the Mayor discussed 911 and how it works locally. — Steve asked about employment with the City in Public Safety and the Mayor stated available jobs with the City are posted on the City website. The status of the Sludge Landfill Project was reviewed along with various alternatives – The Mayor stated that “the watershed will be protected” – The status of Maki Park was reviewed – some work hasn’t been done because of the weather. Holiday Events: Handel’s Messiah performance will be at Gardner City Hall Sunday December 14th. Caroling with the Mayor event is December 22nd. Inauguration will be January 8th at Perry Auditorium. ———
Steve Wendell reviewed FREE publicity for non-profits – A Christmas song featuring the Charlie Brown Character – Resolutions Commentary with Werner Poegel – Masons Selling Christmas Trees at 42 Central Street in Gardner. Tall ones only $55.
2nd Hour: Discussion with Shawn Hayden of GAAMHA on Christmas Tree Sales at 827 Green Street (Route 140) lot — Mike Urban Commentary on the Massachusetts Energy Crisis –
Steve Wendell on Christmas tunes: with a comedy segment on Hot Mamma, an artist from India who does hilariously bad versions of “Sleighride” , Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, and Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.
- Disability 12-10-25 (12/12/2025)
Anne Hurst re Maki Park :” ..it might meet requirements, but it’s still not right.” as Disability Commission Meets
The Gardner Disability Commission met on December 10, 2025 and Chair Anne Hurst and other members expressed multiple frustrations with the status of the project, while also acknowledging and expressing appreciation to Director Jason Stevens for his efforts in addressing issues caused by others prior to his arrival. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
There were extensive discussions about accessibility and compliance issues within municipal projects, particularly Maki Park. Commission members and city staff examine how the new park, while meeting 521 CMR compliance (Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regulations), is still not fully inclusive or welcoming to people with disabilities due to design flaws, such as multi-level access and the use of unsuitable stone dust surfacing.
The meeting also covers the inaccessible city council chambers due to a long-broken elevator awaiting expensive repairs, ongoing efforts to improve private business compliance through outreach and checklists, and plans for the commission to become proactively involved in the early stages of future city projects to ensure better universal access.
With regard to Maki Park, Director Jason Stevens noted that the West Street Parking Lot itself is not ADA compliant due to the grade, but that the 3rd level entrance to Maki Park is compliant. Stevens stated that it would be up to the Building Commissioner to determine if the park is ADA compliant. It was noted by members of the Disability Commission that it is unlikely that people will disabilities will use the park due to the accessibility issues. Jason Stevens noted that he was not working for the City at the beginning of the Maki project, but pledged to work closely with the Disability Commission regarding upcoming projects such as the Greenwood Pool Pavilion.
- This Week 12-12-25 (12/12/2025)
This Week’s Expanded Edition of our Weekly News Magazine “This Week in the Chair City” for Friday, December 12, 2025
Listen to “This Week in the Chair City” on any device. CLICK PLAY.
This Week in the Chair City 12-12-25 In this week’s Edition: Gardner PD recognition, Christmas singing, Holiday Craft Fair, performance of Handel’s Messiah, Free gift wrapping at Library, Holiday Cheer at Heywood Hospital, Winter Coat Distribution, original Christmas songs, Donation of Bicycles, Gardner CAC reaches fundraising goal, Spring Flowerpots, City Hall step construction, updates on Fire – Police – and Health Departments , Municipal Finances, Planning Board meets on projects, cross-jurisdictional conflict regarding pond expansion, Maki Park accessibility and ADA compliance, Conservation Commission on 2 projects, hazard mitigation plan, master plan, code red system, common courtesy and kindness, School Committee recognizes scholarship recipients, upcoming meetings, jobs in the City of Gardner
Contact Us: Have a news story idea? Like to promote your event? Want to give some exposure to your non-profit organization? It’s easy. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. Thank you.
- Holiday Spotlight (12/11/2025)
A Community Christmas Holiday Spotlight
The Gardner PD recognized two young men (shown in photo collage) who once again raised money to help others: “…A huge shout-out to two incredible young men who, for the third year in a row, raised money and purchased essential items for the homeless and those in need. Their efforts year after year—are nothing short of inspiring. It’s young people like them who remind us that even small acts of generosity can make a big difference. Thank you both for continuing to lead by example and for showing our community what it means to care. We are proud of you!!!”
The Gardner Senior Center hosted the Hubbardston Singers who performed an afternoon of Christmas songs on December 10th. “Our Golden Agers had an amazing time Thank you for sharing your talent and bringing the spirit of the season to our community!” Here’s a sampling of their singing for any device, CLICK PLAY.
Hubbardston Singers 12-10-25 Two Upcoming Events
A Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at the Acadian Social Club on Parker Street in Gardner. Benefits the Andrew Boucher Scholarship Fund. Bake Sale, 50/50 Raffle, and Chance Auction.
Caroling with the Mayor will be held on December 22, 2025 at 4pm . “Everyone knows that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear!” Complimentary Hot Chocolate and Horse Drawn Carriage Rides in Front of Gardner City Hall from 5 to 7pm.
- Bike Donations (12/11/2025)
Organizations in Gardner will benefit from over two dozen bicycles donated by E.L. Harvey & Sons.
E.L. Harvey has posted about their employees putting together bikes to “brighten Christmas for kids in our community…Huge shoutout to our employees..”
E.L. Harvey is the waste hauler for Gardner Massachusetts residents and has private customers throughout Central Massachusetts.
The Gardner Community Action Committee stated: “Biggest thanks to E.L. Harvey for their generous donation of assortment of bikes, that will be distributed through our community and will most definitely put a big smile on many little faces”
Mayor Michael Nicholson stated: “Thank you to E.L. Harvey & Sons, the City’s contracted trash/recycle hauler, for donating 25 bicycles to the City to be given to various organizations for children around the City for the Christmas season!”
WGAW Weekdays In the Community
Greater Gardner Weather Center, CLICK HERE. 
The Fiscal 6 Project Covering 5 Years of Gardner Success, CLICK HERE 
Gardner City Council page, CLICK HERE 
Non-Profits – Public Service Organizations Listing, CLICK HERE 
Schools page, CLICK HERE 
Original Music page 
Interviews, CLICK HERE 
Gardner Magazine Editorials, CLICK HERE.
