The council, in collaboration with various city departments, is ensuring transparency by documenting and publicly sharing all inquiries from potential bidders. A review committee has been formed to evaluate the RFPs, with Counselor Elizabeth J. Kazinskas and Dr. Stephanie MarQuetti, who has experience in rehabilitating school buildings, agreeing to serve. The committee will prioritize technical proposals over price. If no suitable proposals are received, demolition may proceed as the building’s current state may not withstand another construction season. The deadline for RFP submissions is September 24, 2025.

The meeting also focused on various economic and community development projects, including updates on ongoing CDBG projects. Almost all projects from the 2022-2023 cycle have been completed, except for the Greenland pool demolition. The city is reviewing several projects for potential reclassification to optimize available funds, facing administrative challenges with some grant years due to complexities in fund allocation.

Attention was also given to the North Central Pathway Connector project, where collaboration with National Grid has necessitated the temporary closure of an unpaved section of the pathway. A master license agreement is being drafted to ensure effective use of the path during the utility work. Despite delays, the project’s progress is expected to position it well for future funding opportunities, particularly from the Massachusetts trails grant program. Community feedback on the pathway has been positive, with residents appreciating its enhancements and utility.

The master plan and hazard mitigation plan are concurrently undergoing critical reviews. The master plan covers housing, transportation, historic resources, economic development, and land use, with a public meeting planned to gather community input once the document is finalized. The hazard mitigation plan has completed several chapters, with a public feedback session scheduled for September 18, aimed at addressing growth expectations and their impact on hazard risks.

The council meeting further included updates on the potential sale of the Garbos property, which involves creating a purchase and sale agreement within an urban renewal zone. The process requires approval from both city and state housing authorities.

In terms of park projects, the council discussed funding allocations for Mackie Park enhancements. A total of $37,717.68 has been transferred to the Mackie Park account from other park funds, although the estimated cost for remaining work stands at approximately $52,000. The project aims to make the park ADA compliant, with utility wire relocation as part of the improvements. The council acknowledged challenges in securing additional funds but expressed gratitude for the contractor’s willingness to expedite the project without a new bidding process, thereby saving time.

The council also addressed regional planning efforts, comparing the offerings of the Montichus Regional Planning Commission and the Central Mass Regional Planning Commission. Discussions included potential peer training for Gardner staff to enhance regional planning capabilities.