The meeting placed emphasis on reviving the municipal recreation department. The department had previously been integrated with the high school athletic director’s role, but a participant suggested separation to better address community needs. There was a call for a collaborative meeting involving the mayor, school administration, and other stakeholders to explore this initiative. Participants expressed enthusiasm for enhancing recreational offerings, noting that the current landscape has changed since the last recreation department existed. Integrating funding sources like the Williams Rockwell Trust to support activities was proposed.

The recreation department’s update revealed a successful summer program, with enrollments surpassing projections. A significant 353 enrollments were recorded, with a notable increase in kindergarten-first grade participation. The basketball program underwent a rebranding from “Biddy basketball” to “recreational basketball,” introducing three levels to accommodate various skill sets. Enrollment numbers already exceed those of the previous year, and the department plans to cap registrations at 140 players. The department also announced upcoming indoor field hockey, soccer, baseball, softball, and track clinics, acknowledging the need for greater accessibility to pay-to-play sports like field hockey.

The committee also explored introducing girls’ flag football at the high school level, addressing community demand despite it not being recognized as an MIAA sport. Participation in programs is generally limited to Gardner residents or students attending local schools, with priority given to past participants to ensure continuity.

Attention then shifted to Gardner Airport, where discussions highlighted maintenance and operational challenges. Participants addressed the need for increased funding to cover urgent repairs, such as the leaking roof on the main hangar. With the repair budget dwindling to $700 for the fiscal year, there were calls for fund transfers from the city auditor and mayor. The airport’s potential for increased activity was noted, particularly with the possible closure of nearby airports, which could shift traffic to Gardner.

The airport’s rental income generation was discussed, with a suggestion to establish a revolving account to retain some of this income for necessary repairs. The soaring club’s membership growth was mentioned, alongside potential business from life flight services. The completed runway rebuilding, funded largely by federal grants, marked a recent accomplishment, but ongoing projects like environmental assessments and obstruction analyses continue to require financial support.

Participants underscored the need for effective communication and collaboration with the Department of Public Works (DPW) to address signage, equipment, and maintenance issues. The lack of progress on previously discussed items led to frustration, with calls for improved coordination among departments. The potential for free cash allocations and a detailed accounting of airport revenue and expenses was suggested to better assess financial needs.