The expansion of veteran services stood out as a primary topic, as Mayor Michael J. Nicholson detailed a new intermunicipal agreement with the town of Hbertson. This agreement, effective from January 1, 2026, to June 30, 2028, authorizes Gardner to manage veteran services for Hbertson, whose current Veteran Service Officer is due for deployment. With Gardner in the process of onboarding an assistant director, Mayor Nicholson assured the committee that the department could handle the additional workload. Hbertson, with a population of 4,328, will pay a fee of $2 per resident, providing vital support for Gardner’s veteran services department.

The mayor noted that Gardner had already been managing Hbertson’s VA claims due to limited availability from their VSO, who worked only four hours a week. The agreement, already approved by Hbertson’s board of selectmen, is designed to be financially sustainable with a prorated fee for the first year. Councilor Judy A. Mack raised concerns about expanding services to other municipalities, to which Mayor Nicholson agreed, emphasizing a cautious approach.

Another highlight of the meeting was the proposed zoning ordinance amendment to allow cottage kitchens in residential districts. This ordinance aims to formalize the operation of approximately seven cottage kitchens currently without formal approval. The proposal excludes these businesses from commercial and industrial districts, intending to streamline processes and support local entrepreneurship.

Council members discussed the importance of making Gardner more business-friendly, with emphasis on eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. A motion to forward the ordinance to the full council was passed, with a public hearing scheduled as part of the approval process.

The meeting also featured substantial updates on the Gardner Library. Director Marita Clemens reported on the library’s compliance with state aid requirements, resulting in a 12.5% increase in funding. The library plans to extend its operating hours to 50 per week with the addition of three part-time staff members. Infrastructure improvements, including a new wireless fire and security alarm system and an internet-based telephone system, were also announced.

Clemens outlined future goals, including replacing the HVAC system and enhancing the library’s website for better accessibility. The library holds 131,134 items and plans to expand its collection, notably by adding reading materials in Spanish and Portuguese and introducing a “library of things” offering non-traditional items like tools and household technology for borrowing.

The library’s programming efforts were also highlighted, with increases in offerings and attendance noted. The formation of a teen advisory council is planned to bolster community outreach and programming for youth, supported by the hiring of a new teen librarian. Recent successful events included a life-size Candyland game and an English language learning circle, showing strong community engagement.

A focus on the Gardner Senior Center revealed the economic impact of its services, estimated at around $2.65 million annually. Director Ellis emphasized collaborative efforts and the contributions of approximately 960 volunteers, who logged 16,000 hours last fiscal year. The Senior Buy-In Program and other financial aid initiatives have provided considerable savings for seniors.

Ellis also addressed the anticipated relocation of the Senior Center, acknowledging logistical challenges but expressing enthusiasm for the new facilities. A badge system for volunteers and a restored fire escape are among planned improvements. The center continues to offer diverse programming, supported by part-time staff, volunteers, and partnerships with local organizations and educational institutions.

The committee also received updates on public access television operations, with plans to expand sports coverage and upgrade outdated equipment. Candidate presentations during election cycles were discussed as a future possibility, with emphasis on ensuring fairness and equal opportunities for participation.