Links: Nomination Papers – Donate to Campaign –Request a Lawn Sign – Campaign Volunteer Form – Email Sign-up
Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson Announces Run for State Representative
On April 16, 2026, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson announced his candidacy for State Representative. Here is the Mayor’s statement:
“I am excited to announce that I am running to be our State Representative.
Cities and Towns across Massachusetts are struggling with tighter and tighter budgets which is putting more and more pressure on local services and taxpayers. I think Beacon Hill could benefit from more insight into the struggles facing municipalities.
The struggles of declining enrollment in our schools, rising costs, especially for health insurance, and pressure from statewide municipal cost increases. If we want to stabilize municipal budgets we need creative statewide solutions.
My experience as a Mayor, and previously as the Town Administrator of a small rural town gives me a unique perspective that is underrepresented in the legislature.
I see the affordability and the housing crisis play out for my constituents every day. More and more people are finding themselves unable to afford bills, rent, and mortgages. I’ve pushed through innovative and strong solutions to these problems. I’ve reduced red tape in City Hall, rethought how we approach economic development, and incentivized housing growth that meets the needs of our residents and fits into the character of our communities, while also investing in our infrastructure and education system. I understand how a strong partnership between the state and our communities can make a big difference and I also understand where the state can place burdens on municipalities that limit our flexibility and impact local taxpayers.
To get at the heart of the issues facing our district and the Commonwealth as a whole, we need people who can bring firsthand experience and solutions. With my experience in town and city government and as a lifelong resident of this area, I am uniquely qualified to serve in this role and will be ready to hit the ground running on day one.
I also want to take a moment to thank Representative Zlotnik for his partnership and hard work over the last fourteen years. His efforts have resulted in significant funds coming directly to Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and Winchendon to support the revitalization of our community.
Mayor Mike Nicholson”