A major topic at the council meeting was the proposed reform of the city’s signage ordinance. The initiative, co-sponsored by the mayor, seeks to move signage regulations from the zoning code into the general ordinance category. The mayor explained that this change aims to streamline the process for businesses seeking to install signs, eliminating the lengthy and complicated zoning amendment process currently in place. The existing zoning code requires multiple meetings and votes, often causing delays for businesses that have already completed their zoning reviews. The council highlighted instances where businesses faced significant delays in sign approval, such as Tiffany Crossroads and Sawa Asian Cuisine, leading to additional costs and time wastage. A cited example involved a business having to restart the process because a sign was denied for being marginally too tall.

The council expressed support for the proposed changes, recognizing the need for a more business-friendly approach. The mayor noted that this adjustment is part of a larger initiative to reform the signage ordinance and make it more accommodating for developers. Phase two of the proposed changes will involve consultations with the building commissioner and other relevant departments. The council discussed implementing a standardized questionnaire for businesses that have encountered issues with signage to provide valuable testimonials supporting the need for ordinance changes.

In addition to the signage reform, the meeting also covered several infrastructure projects that are critical to the city’s development. Among these, the Rear Main North Side project was highlighted, with a completion date set for May 31, 2026. Funded by the FY23 Mass Works infrastructure program, the project includes plans to enhance parking availability, create green space, and introduce a water feature and splash pad. Despite weather-related delays, there was optimism about meeting the projected completion date, with council members expressing enthusiasm for the project.

Another infrastructure topic was the Keys Road culvert project, which serves as the only access point for approximately 50 to 60 residents in Gardner. The culvert’s deteriorating condition prompted the city to pursue funding through the community covert grant and the MVP grant, with a total project cost of about $2 million. The council emphasized the urgency of addressing the infrastructure’s condition to prevent potential failure.

The council also discussed ongoing efforts to support the city’s development through planning initiatives. A downtown mobility plan funded by a raise grant of over $1.2 million aims to enhance transportation infrastructure, multimodal transit options, and connectivity in the downtown area. This includes planning for a potential four-story parking garage on West Street, although the project remains in the exploratory phase with no definitive construction plans.

Attention was given to the master plan and hazard mitigation plan, which are important for setting a vision for the city’s development over the next 10 to 20 years. The master plan is funded through a community planning grant and seeks public input throughout the process, with an emphasis on outlining specific goals for housing production. The hazard mitigation plan, marking the city’s first individual plan since 1975, aims to identify vulnerabilities specific to Gardner and secure additional funding for future projects.

The council meeting also addressed the management of city funds, particularly social service grants and their allocation through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Funds remaining from a previous demolition project were allocated to local organizations for veterans assistance, and the council expressed appreciation for the diligent management of these funds. Discussions highlighted the need for clearer public explanations of how city funds are utilized, as many constituents are unaware of the efforts made to secure outside funding.