Gardner City Council Approves Budget Amendments Amidst Concerns Over Salary Increases
- Meeting Overview:
During a recent Gardner City Council meeting, the council approved several budget amendments, notably reducing the total amount by over $157,000. The council also addressed financial appropriations, including funds for the school department and various city departments, while raising concerns about the increasing portion of expenses dedicated to salaries.
01:07:43The meeting saw a discussion on budget amendments aimed at aligning with the proposed salary ordinance. A council member emphasized the importance of adopting the amendments to carefully review the mayor’s salary proposals without prematurely committing to specific figures. This move, they argued, would allow for a transparent evaluation of the proposals and ensure a fair discussion on the matter. The amendment proposal did not intend to oppose any salary raises or step systems but focused on fostering a comprehensive assessment of the ordinance.
10:25The council member articulated skepticism about the transparency of the negotiation process for the salary figures. The council agreed with this approach unanimously.
01:02:25Following this decision, the council addressed the school department budget, approving an allocation of $36,715,187 for the fiscal year 2025-2026.
27:05The subsequent order to raise and appropriate $29,193,146 for various city departments also passed unanimously. During the discussion, a council member commended the increased transparency in the budget process, highlighting improvements in information accessibility and document formatting. However, they raised concerns about the rising operational expenses, particularly in relation to salary increases, which they noted could limit funds available for other essential services.
The council member pointed out that the proposed budget included around $1.3 million in new spending, coinciding with proposed salary increases of about $1.5 million. They cautioned about the implications of such rising expenses. As a result, there would be less financial flexibility for other critical needs. The member specifically mentioned fuel costs for city vehicles as an example of an underbudgeted essential expense, highlighting the need for fiscal discipline.
Another measure discussed was the order to raise and appropriate $14,411,619 for the salary and labor budget. The council member moved to pass the order in a reduced amount of $14,272,660. Following thorough discussions, the council again reached a consensus, approving the amendment unanimously.
Additionally, the council approved the FY2026 capital improvement plan and various orders related to appropriating funds from surplus retained earnings for maintenance and operational needs across city departments. Key appropriations included $90,000 from free cash for the Mayor’s Unclassified Waterford Community Center building utilities expenses, and $575,000 from free cash to the Department of Public Works snow and ice removal expense account.
01:10:18The meeting concluded with the authorization of FY2026 revolving funds, with discussions highlighting the Council on Aging Recreational Activities and the newly established youth center services fund. A council member lauded the earmarking of $100,000 by Representative Zotnik for the youth services program, emphasizing its significance for students in grades 7 to 12 in Gardner.
01:12:28In closing comments, council members acknowledged the efficiency of the meeting and the discussions that took place in prior committee meetings. They emphasized the importance of subcommittee work in the overall budgeting process.
Michael J. Nicholson
City Council Officials:
Elizabeth J. Kazinskas, David R. Thibault-Muñoz, Dana M. Heath, Paul G. Tassone, Karen G. Hardern, Aleksander H. Dernalowicz (Esq.), Calvin D. Brooks, Craig R. Cormier, Brad E. Heglin, Judy A. Mack, George C. Tyros
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
06/16/2025
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Recording Published:
06/17/2025
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Duration:
75 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Worcester County
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Towns:
Gardner
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