The relocation of a utility pole on Elm Street was a major topic on the agenda. The pole, managed by National Grid, needed to be moved to accommodate the forthcoming road widening project. This adjustment is part of a larger effort under the Safe Routes to School grant project designed to improve pedestrian safety near Gardner Public Schools. During the public hearing, there were no objections raised by the community, and the council swiftly moved to close the hearing. A council member recused themselves from the discussion due to a conflict of interest since the poles were near their residence. The mayor provided background, highlighting the project’s significance for local school safety and infrastructure enhancement.

The council also addressed fiscal matters, approving an order to raise and appropriate $157,900 for the service department’s operating expenditure for the fiscal year 2024-2025. This supplemental budget aims to stabilize finances amidst unpredictable market conditions. The mayor explained that the conservative revenue projections were designed to maintain financial stability while addressing existing debts. The council unanimously approved the budget following a motion and second.

A related financial matter was the certification of free cash, totaling $2,636,168, which represents 3.14% of the FY 2025 operating budget. The mayor elaborated that free cash results from revenue exceeding budgeted amounts or expenses coming in under budget from the previous fiscal year. He shared plans to allocate approximately $691,000 of this free cash for various purposes, including the stabilization account, employee benefits, road paving, landfill closure, grant writing services, and IT upgrades. However, these appropriations will be delayed until after the tax rate is set to simplify the auditor’s process.

In terms of infrastructure, the council discussed a new petition from National Grid for installing underground facilities, including a pad-mounted transformer and conduit in a parking lot off Main Street and Pleasant Street. This item was referred to the Public Service Committee, and a public hearing was scheduled to further evaluate the project.

Another noteworthy topic was the demolition of 73 Stewart Street, which had been declared surplus due to safety and blight concerns. The mayor reported that the building had been demolished earlier that day, and cleanup efforts were underway. This action resolved the issues that had led to its surplus status, and the council unanimously placed the communication on file.

The council also considered a proposal to amend the city code regarding parking restrictions on Edel Street. Following community feedback and a lack of safety concerns from the police chiefs, the council voted against the continuation of no-parking restrictions.

In the appointments section, the council referred the mayor’s appointment of Paul Gage to the historical commission to the appointments committee for further study. Additionally, an ordinance amendment regarding mobile homes and trailers, as well as one on parking meter fees, were both referred to the Public Safety Committee for further evaluation.

Lastly, the mayor shared a demographic review of Gardner Public Schools, noting an increase in Hispanic students from 8% in 2000 to 29% at present. This analysis highlighted the evolving diversity within the community.