The meeting also highlighted the Gardner Fire Department’s staffing challenges, with three new recruits recently completing their training at the academy and now assigned to regular shifts. However, the department continues to face hurdles as one firefighter remains on modified duty following an injury, and overtime costs have surged due to previous vacancies. These costs are reportedly stabilizing as staffing levels improve, though financial constraints remain a concern.

In addition to the grant and staffing updates, the committee discussed developments in fleet management. Approval was secured for the purchase of a $25,000 used ambulance from Westminster, expected to arrive around the new year. This acquisition will serve as a backup, addressing mechanical issues plaguing the 2018 model Rescue 4 ambulance, including a turbo replacement and electronic module control failure, both subject to lengthy part procurement times.

Attention turned to the city’s health department, which is grappling with staffing shortages and budgetary constraints. The department is currently operating with two administrative vacancies, and while a full-time administrative assistant is set to start, there remains a need for a part-time administrative coordinator. The acting director is reportedly capable, but the persistent understaffing has led to delays in routine inspections and an overwhelming workload. The department’s challenges are compounded by the recent retirement of the transfer station supervisor and another impending resignation.

The committee expressed concern over the landfill’s leach collection system, which requires urgent repairs costing $224,828, but only $115,000 is currently available. The system is nearing the end of its operational life, necessitating bi-weekly manual pumping to prevent overflow. Erosion control repairs at the landfill are estimated to cost an additional $200,000, but funding remains elusive. The committee’s decision to continue working with E. L. Harvey for curbside collection promises cost reductions and improved safety, with new regulations on private wells set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

In public health updates, the department is preparing for flu and COVID vaccine clinics, with the next event scheduled at city hall on October 20. The department is also dealing with a rise in bed bug cases, particularly impacting vulnerable seniors. The complexities of treatment responsibilities between landlords and tenants present challenges.

The meeting also addressed the transition from the current software system, Open Gov, to Govwell. While the existing system functions adequately, it requires extensive customization. Govwell is anticipated to streamline processes, reducing burdens on staff. Angela, noted for her proficiency with Open Gov, expressed the urgency of hiring full-time staff to handle increasing workloads, particularly given the health department’s mounting responsibilities and the departure of personnel.

Further discussions covered the city’s landfill management. With the Fitchburg Landfill expected to close within five years, the city is considering future waste management options. Currently, solid waste is transported to facilities in Fitchburg and subsequently sent out of state.

The committee was informed of a grant secured to transition the domestic violence advocate position to full-time, addressing a community need. Another grant, amounting to $31,000 annually, is designated for municipal road safety initiatives, including the installation of electronic speed signs.

The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing projects, such as the completion of a kitchen in the civil defense building and the adoption of a 25 mph speed limit in specific areas. A communication from the traffic commission regarding winter parking procedures was also discussed, with an ordinance under review by the law department.